News

Independent Day Blasts Okah To Call 103 Witnesses From Nigeria

Published

14 years ago

June 22, 2011

Militant Leader, Henry Okah, yesterday told a Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court that he would call 103 witnesses from Nigeria to testify in his defence.

Okah is facing terrorism charges in relation to the Oct. 1, 2010 twin bomb blasts in Abuja.

Okah is slammed with charges of delivery, placement and detonation of explosives which occurred during Nigeria’s 50thIndependence Day celebrations, as well as an alternative count of conspiring with others to do so.

The prosecution, at the last adjourned date, told the court of plans to bring additional charges relating to terrorism, terror financing and possible money laundering against him in connection with the March 15, 2010 explosions in Warri, Delta State.

Okah’s counsel Rudi Krause told the court yesterday that Okah needed the witnesses to be subpoenaed to South Africa where they could testify free of intimidation.

Krause presented the list to the court.

The counsel told the court that the list he presented was a preliminary one but was brought early to give the prosecution sufficient time to prepare as Okah needed them to testify in the court.

He said the witnesses might not be able to testify freely in Nigeria, adding that at a later stage, he would provide further details of the witnesses to the court.

Krause also told the court that Okah was ready to go on trial and would not want the case delayed, adding that the conditions in which he is now being held were harsh.

He said that since cell phones were recovered in his cell in February, he had been moved to a punitive cell where he could not communicate with people and did not see sunlight.

Krause said Okah was alone in a cell which was for over 40 people, noting that his requests for medical attention had continued to be ignored by the prison authorities and his condition was progressively getting worse.

“He can’t speak to anyone, he sleeps on a concrete slab with a little mattress provided in the cell with no windows, no sunlight and his injury is getting worse,’’ the lawyer said.

Krause said he was told that a doctor who was assigned to see him had later withdrawn his services when he was told that the person he was to see was a security risk.

He urged the court to make a note on his detention warrant to indicate that he be given medical attention.

Krause also urged the court to rule that the case will no longer be adjourned at the Magistrates’ court again after the prosecution urged for more time to finish investigation and bring proof of indictment against him by August 24 ahead of the January 30, 2012 trial date.

Earlier, the prosecutor, Mr Shaun Abrahams, told the court that the state required more time to conclude its investigation as it was awaiting some information from service providers and two unnamed countries.

He said the trial date had tentatively been set for January 30, 2012 and said the state was not delaying the matter.

Abrahams also told the court that Okah had lost a bid for a leave to appeal against denial of his bail at the High Court last week and had indicated that he may approach the Supreme Court of Appeal.

He said that measures had been put in place to enable Okah to have access to medical help after the doctor earlier assigned to him withdrew.

Abrahams said the list of witnesses presented by Okah’s counsel was so long that if followed through might make the trial take up to between three and four years.

He assured that proof of indictment will be served on Okah by August 24 which was still within the nine month period from February which the prosecution promised to conclude its investigation.

Magistrate Hein Louw in his ruling, refused to rule that the adjournment for more investigation requested by the prosecution must be the final one.

He said he could not do so since they were still awaiting information from two countries which was not within their control.

Louw however said it this did not mean he would allow further adjournments for investigation as he could decide to order the prosecution to go to trial even if they claimed they were still investigating.

He said that in all likelihood, the trial would proceed on January 30, 2012.

Louw said since both parties had agreed on the issue of medical treatment, he would endorse the warrant to reflect that Okah be granted access to it.

He adjourned the case to August 24 to allow for further investigation by the prosecution and serving of proof of indictment.

The Southern Africa correspondent reports that Okah was arrested on October 2, 2010 in Johannesburg and appeared in court on October 4,2010.

He applied for bail but was denied as the South African authorities said they had a good case against him and were sure they could get a conviction even though Okah argued to the contrary.

The state during the bail application, said they had evidence of phone call and e-mail contact between Okah and suspects held in connection with the explosions in Nigeria.

Meawhile, President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday that government would not overlook the explosions which rocked the Force Headquarters in Abuja on June 16.

Jonathan made the pledge while receiving a delegation of the family of the late Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who came to commiserate with him at the State House, Abuja, over the bomb blast.

Our correspondent reports that the late Prime Minister’s family members led by Malam Yakubu Tafawa Balewa, were in the State House on a thank-you visit to the President, for naming the new Ministry of Foreign Affairs building after their father.

Jonathan said that government was taking definite steps to strengthen national security.

He said the explosion was an act of terror, which had become a global trend, but gave assurance that his administration was taking steps to ensure the safety of all Nigerians.

The President said that naming the Foreign Affairs Headquarters building after the late Prime Minister was not an accident, but “a recognition of his contributions as Nigeria’s first foreign minister’’.

He said the action was also to recognise Balewa’s contributions to the development of Nigeria as its first Premier.

On plans by the family to establish a foundation in memory of their father, Jonathan advised that they should ensure the appointment of people of integrity, who would keep the good name of the late Prime Minister alive.

He promised that the former Prime Minister’s mausoleum would be upgraded, to serve as a suitable tourist attraction for visiting foreign leaders and visitors.

Earlier, Yakubu Balewa had expressed appreciation to Jonathan, and spoke of his family’s plans to set up a foundation in memory of their father.

He said the foundation would focus on good governance and good neighbourliness.

In a related development, as Nigerians continue to condemn in its entirety the incessant bomb attack on innocent citizens, especially the latest bombing of Police Headquarters, Abuja, the Enugu State governorship candidate of the Congress For Progressive Change (CPC), in the 2011 general elections, Chief Emma Ugwu , has called on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency probe the ugly incident with a view to bringing those behind the unholy act to book to serve as deterrent to others.

Making the call in a chat with newsmen in Enugu at the weekend, the front line politician, noted that unless drastic measures were put in place to address the worrisome development, the nation’s nascent democracy would be in a very serious jeopardy.

Chief Ugwu regretted that the bomb scare and continuous killings of innocent Nigerians in some parts of the country in no small way portend danger for the country’s march for a stable democratic rule, adding that no responsive and responsible government would fold its arms and watch the lives of its citizens threatened and wasted as it is being witnessed in the country in recent times.

Hear him: “President Goodluck Jonathan’s government should look inwards within its rank and file to find out those behind the latest bombing with a view to finding out whether members of Boko Haram have infiltrated the security network of the country. In addition, government should also find out the immediate and remote causes of the social insecurity in the country as we are yet to come out from the post election violence”.

The CPC chieftain therefore used the forum to further advise the Federal Government not allow some disgruntled elements to create unnecessary tension and panic in the country, adding that no person or group of persons is bigger or more important than the country, as the corporate interest of the nation remains paramount.

He also advised Nigerians to always emulate countries like America and Britain where politics is based on developmental issues, pointing out that national interest should take precedent over selfish and sectional interests at all times.

“If bomb could explode and kill people in the nation’s police headquarters, then, how safe is the ordinary Nigerian in other less tight security areas in the country? This is a serious issue which the authority should not hesitate to address”, he further stressed.

He, therefore, urged the entire people of Nigeria, especially the political class to close ranks and support President Jonathan in his tireless efforts to take the country to the next level.

News

Work on Eleme Road delaying fuel distribution from PH Refinery – PETROAN

Published

6 hours ago

January 10, 2025

The Tide

The Petroleum Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has expressed concern over the slow pace of work by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) on the Eleme East-West Road project, Port Harcourt axis.

The National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Harry, in a statement yesterday, said that the delay was happening in spite of the N33 billion said to have been released by the Federal Ministry of Works, for the project.

Harry decried the challenges the deplorable road posed, saying that it was sabotaging President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to ensure the smooth distribution of petroleum products from the renovated Port Harcourt Refinery.

“Thousands of petroleum trucks will be using the road to convey products from the renovated Port Harcourt refinery, so, further delay is detrimental.

“The Eleme East-West Road is a critical route for the transportation of petroleum products, and its safety is paramount.

“The road’s deplorable condition poses a significant risk to trucks carrying petroleum products, which could lead to catastrophic accidents and environmental disasters.

“PETROAN is calling on the President to evaluate the ongoing contract by RCC in line with the contract timeline.

“This move will consolidate his renewed hope agenda by ensuring the timely completion of the Eleme East-West Road project.”

Harry said that about 60 retail outlets were negatively impacted by the road construction, and requested adequate compensation for owners of the fuel stations.

He recalled that the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in a press conference, had also complained about the slow approach of RCC, leading to the issuance of a seven-day ultimatum by the Minister.

“Furthermore, PETROAN is calling on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to fast-track the contract evaluation process and take decisive action to address the slow pace of work by RCC.

News

Old Students’ Association Marks Anniversary

Published

6 hours ago

January 10, 2025

The Tide

The Rivers Secondary Schools Old Boys and Girls 1983 Set Association marked its one year anniversary in Port Harcourt on 22nd December 2024.

The association is a body of old boys and girls of 1983 graduating set of secondary schools in Rivers State, Nigeria conceptualised to provide opportunities for reconnection and reminiscing over old times, networking, creating avenues for personal and professional growth, fostering friendships and celebrating milestones.

The one year anniversary gathering which took place at Galaxy PHD Event Centre, in GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, brought together different professionals and was heralded with classic photo shoot session, free speeches and talks on how to move the association to greater heights. It was rounded off with a dinner.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the association, Chief Hope Kuku, congratulated members for the one year anniversary.

He encouraged members to reach out to more classmates in order to grow the association as the advantages are enormous in terms of business growth and social interactions.

He said he was already looking forward to a steady growth of the Association to mark the 10th anniversary.

Also speaking, the President of the association, Barrister Tubokumba Harry, described the last one year of the association as “exciting and really fulfilling” promising to “get more of our set mates on board”.

He stated that the coming together as classmates of the same set would inculcate a bond built on shared experiences which can enhance communication skills, promote teamwork and collaboration with lasting memories that members would cherish in the future.

In her own remarks, the Secretary General of the association, Dr (Mrs) Ibinabo Ogolo said one year down the memory lane of the association has been wonderful as members have not only shared experiences but made significant strides towards achieving the aim and objectives of the association.

“We successfully organised programmes like celebrating the Day of the African Child with students of Government Technical College, Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt.

Also, a Road Walk and Health Awareness campaign through Port Harcourt streets to create awareness and sensitize the people of Rivers State on the health importance of walking.

The association also organised a “Hang-Out” session for members on 1st October, 2024 to foster relationships and networking and also joined other groups to relieve stress and depression at the Enjoyment Mega Sit Out at Port Harcourt Club in Port Harcourt.

These activities brought our members and community together”. She said.

On his part, the Chairman of the anniversary planning committee, Mr Tammy Owunaka noted that the association in just one year had grown to enviable height providing a platform for former classmates to reconnect, network and give back to the society.

Furthermore, he stated that the association created opportunities for professional mentorship, developments, and collaboration, thereby helping members to advance in their aspects of endeavour and personal lives.

He said that through the association, members have demonstrated that power of collective action and social responsibility can propel an organisation and commended the sense of belonging and camaraderie among members.

Also speaking, the legal adviser of the association, Barrister Ngozi Ajayi noted that though the association is only one year old, it was already walking on a purposeful path and urged members to remain committed to and focused to make the association one of the best in the state.

In his remarks, Barrister Sylvester Adaka, who is a former Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch and a memeber of the association stated that so far the association is on the right path but will progress better with more classmates on board.

He commended the classic photo shoot session as a great way to portray the individual personalities of members, adding that he was looking forward to more events.

News

Nothing’ll Stop Governance In Rivers, Fubara Assures …Says We Won’t Allow Anyone Take State For A Ride

Published

14 hours ago

January 10, 2025

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured that his administration will not leave any stone unturned to checkmate and frustrate anyone or group of persons attempting to stop government from delivering good governance to the good people of the State.

He also assured that with the strong support of the pillars and frontiers of the political class and leaders, particularly those who built the foundational structures of Rivers politics, his administration will not allow any detractor or shenanigan take the State and its people for a ride going forward.

Governor Fubara gave the assurance while addressing Rivers people at a 2025 New Year State Banquet in Government House, Port Harcourt.

He expressed confidence that with the strong organic support of former governors, Dr Peter Odili and Sir Celestine Omehia; former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara; former deputy governors, Sir Gabriel Toby and Engr Tele Ikuru; Senators John Azuta-Mbata, Lee Maeba, Andrew Uchendu, Adawari Michael Pepple; former national chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; former transport minister, Dr Abiye Sekibo; Amb Orji Ngofa; and other former and current elected political office holders and leaders at all levels, with proven integrity and accomplishments, no detractor would stand on the way of the State Government in achieving the giant strides it has set for itself.

The Governor said this year, “We will ensure we protect the integrity of this state, at all cost. We won’t allow anybody take this state for a ride. It doesn’t matter the approach I will use. It’s not going to be a fight. We will follow the issues as we did with the case when they (detractors) started begging. Nothing will stop us from not achieving the purpose of governance in this State.”

With strong confidence and faith in God and the people, the Governor said, “We are not bothered about what they (opposition) will come with. God will always have a way to save us from them. They are going to come, but we are not worried. We are equal to the task. I honestly thank our leaders, from Dr. Peter Odili, Sir Celestine Omehia, Sen John Azuta Mbata, Sir Austin Opara, Prince Uche Secondus, Dr. Abiye Sekibo; to others, for the organic support you are giving to our government.

“A lot of persons would not understand what is really happening. This is not to say we did not have people that were with us and following us and fighting. But one of the troubles they (detractors) have where they are today is that they do not have any (strong) face (in Rivers politics) with them. The beginning and the end of politics in this State is Sir Peter Odili. And if he is sitting with us (here), and with these other persons, who do they have with them?

“This Dr. Odili is the right face and right image of our State. These are the frontiers of Rivers State politics. Men and women that have distinguished themselves are sitting with us (here). People who have contributed in several ways to make Rivers State what it is, not rented people they bring for dinner”, he added.

He recalled that the events of 2024, were a mix bag of daunting challenges, but quickly added that the year ended with his administration scoring more gains than losses, “2024 was not an easy year, but it was great for us in the end. About this time last year, we were not in a very pleasant mood, for fear of what might happen, because of the boasting of those who believe they control life”.

But while boldly projecting the 2025 outlook, the Governor said, “We will continue to put our trust in God as 2024 had been a wonderful year. We had our losses, and our gains. But the most important thing is that our gains surpassed the losses. We can boldly say 2024 was a good year for Rivers State. And year 2025, with your support, we are going to build on the gains of last year.”

He restated his administration’s determination to sustain the Rivers First policy, saying, “We will continue to protect the lives of our people and provide the required services in our State. We are not going to lower our guards. Rather, we will raise our bar because, what is speaking for us today is the achievements we are making in the face of obvious distractions.

“Therefore, raising the bar will be our own way of telling the world that no matter what is happening here, we mean well for the state and know what we are doing. It is not going to be easy. I know. God, at times, keeps evil people to live long to continue their evil, not because He does not know what to do but activities of evil people also keep the righteous people awake,” he stressed.

Governor Fubara commended everyone in the State for their organic support, and solicited for more support in 2025, emphasising, “We are not going to do it alone, because we have not made these gains alone. Whatever win we scored today, it is not myself alone, but the government and the support received from every one of you. I cannot pay you back for doing what is right for your State. It is our State, and at the end of the day, we are building a better future for those to take over after us. That is my own dream for the State.”

The Governor noted that it is not about power and what is done today, but sustaining a system that will be self-preserving, on which everyone can stand and be proud of the State, explaining, “I strongly believe that because of our desire to build, not our (private) supermarkets, or our hotels, but to build a (resilient) State, there is no way we will not succeed, because our interest is not for self, but the collective interest of our people.”

He assured that 2025 is going to be a year of all-round achievements, declaring that by February, 2025, his administration will embark on projects’ commissioning in other sectors, emphasising, “This time around, not roads. Our Fire Service, you can see what we are doing there. For over nine years, there was no functional Fire Service, but today, I can proudly tell you that we have bought all the vehicles, and we are remodelling the offices”.

The Governor added, “Education is the only instrument that can help our youths to avoid criminality and crime. Our State is behind in education, as our primary schools are shadows of themselves. You can see the provisions we made in our budget, and we are making sure education is given the required attention in this State.

“We have done much on health but we are going to spend more because you have to be alive to work. We are doing what we know is right, and doing those things that you can stand anywhere after our administration to defend us that our decisions were right. Nothing will stop us from achieving the purpose of governance in this State”, he vowed.

In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, noted that the outgone year had been a wonderful one, and commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for being focused as an emancipator of the State, saying no matter the antics of the enemies, their acts to distract the government will continue to fail.

While proposing the toast for the New Year, member representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon Awaji-Inombek Abiante, said that Governor Fubara’s leadership qualities are a testament to the success of the administration, and prayed for the peace, unity and prosperity of the State, urging the “prodigals” to return home to join in the rebuilding of the Treasure Base of the Nation for future generations.

Highlight of the event was the cutting the New Year Cake by the Governor, who was joined by his Deputy, Prof Ngozi Odu; Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Victor Oko-Jumbo; former governors Peter Odili and Celestine Omehia; Hon Austin Opara; Prince Uche Secondus; retired Justice Mary Odili (JSC); Chief Judge of the State, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi; President, Customary Court of Appeal, Wilfred Ihemnacho Obuzor; Senators John Azuta Mbata, Lee Maeba, Andrew Uchendu, Adawari Pepple; Amb Orji Ngofa; and others.