In recent decision, the Senate has replaced Senator Ali Ndume as the Chief Whip with Senator Tahir Monguno.
The Senate’s move to replace Ndume came following a directive outlined in a letter written by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Umar Ganduje, and the National Secretary, Senator Bashir Ajibola.
During a session chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Senate members voted in favor of replacing Ndume with Senator Tahir Monguno, a decision that received unanimous support from all APC senators.
The letter from the party accused Ndume of making disparaging remarks against the administration of President Bola Tinubu, citing concerns about the negative impact of his comments on the government’s image and its efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investments.
As a result of the decision, Ndume not only lost his position as the Chief Whip but also as the Vice-Chairman of the Appropriation Committee. However, Akpabio appointed him as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Tourism.
Furthermore, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, representing Ondo Central, was appointed as the new chair of the Judiciary and Legal Matters Committee, a position initially meant for Monguno.
This is not the first time Ndume has been removed from a leadership position in the Senate. In January 2017, during the eighth Senate under the leadership of Bukola Saraki, Ndume was also removed from his role as the Senate leader.
The police in Delta State have apprehended four suspected notorious gun runners who specialized in supplying firearms and ammunition to armed robbers in the state.
In a press release signed by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, it was disclosed that the arrests were made following a thorough intelligence-driven investigation conducted by operatives on a special assignment under the command of the Commissioner of Police in Ughelli.
The arrests were directly linked to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 revolver rifle on June 8, 2024.
According to the statement, a team led by ASP Julius Robinson, following the explicit instructions of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, successfully apprehended the trio on July 16, 2024, between the hours of 1300hrs and 1935hrs.
The suspects include Tega Dierunaba, a 44-year-old male from Orerokpe Community in Okpe LGA, Delta State, residing in Enerhen town, Uvwie LGA, Delta State; Chibuike Anuforo Cosmas, a 42-year-old male from Orlu Town in Nkwerre LGA, Imo State, residing in Musheshe Cold-Room Industrial Area, Enehren Road, Uvwie LGA; and Sunday Moses Pam, a 36-year-old male from Von Community in Jos South LGA, Plateau State, residing in Oka closed Street, Enehren Uvwie LGA, Delta State. They are responsible for distributing and transporting arms from Plateau State to Delta State.
All suspects have confessed to the crime, corroborating an earlier confession by Goodluck Sakutu, a 38-year-old male from Ekpan Community, Uvwie LGA, Delta State, who was previously apprehended with a fabricated AK-47 rifle in his possession.
“The Commissioner of Police Delta State CP Olufemi Abaniwonda noted that crime can be fought at any stage, either before, during or even after, he therefore encourages residents to trust the policing process and provide useful, credible and timely information to the Police on suspicious happenings in their area and he assures them of justice, and that their identities will be treated with utmost confidentiality”, he added.
In the latest session of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) held today, a grand total of N1.354 trillion was allocated to the federal, state, and local governments.
According to the official statement released after the meeting in Abuja, the funds represent the revenue generated by the Federation in June. The distributable revenue included N142.5 billion in statutory revenue, N523.973 billion in Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, N15.692 billion in Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue, N472.192 billion in Exchange Difference revenue, and an additional N200.000 billion in augmentation.
Throughout June 2024, a total revenue of N2.483 trillion was amassed. Deductions for the cost of collection amounted to N92.112 billion, while transfers, interventions, and refunds totaled N1,037.407 billion. The gross statutory revenue for June 2024 stood at N1.432 trillion, surpassing May 2024 figures by N208.773 billion.
Furthermore, June 2024 witnessed a gross revenue of N562.685 billion from Value Added Tax (VAT), marking an increase of N65.020 billion from the previous month’s N497.665 billion.
The breakdown of the N1,354.371 billion total distributable revenue is as follows: the Federal Government received N459.776 billion, the State Governments received N461.979 billion, and the Local Government Councils received N337.019 billion. Additionally, a sum of N95.598 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was distributed to the benefiting states as derivation revenue.
The communiqué disclosed that out of the N142.514 billion in distributable statutory revenue, the Federal Government received N48.952 billion, State Governments received N24.829 billion, and Local Government Councils received N19.142 billion.
A sum of N49.591 billion, equivalent to 13% of mineral revenue, was allocated to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
Furthermore, from the N523.973 billion distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, the Federal Government received N78.596 billion, State Governments received N261.987 billion, and Local Government Councils received N183.391 billion.
Moreover, a total of N2.354 billion was received by the Federal Government from the N15.692 billion Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL), while State Governments received N7.846 billion and Local Government Councils received N5.492 billion.
Regarding the N472.192 billion Exchange Difference revenue, the Federal Government received N224.514 billion, State Governments received N113.877 billion, and Local Government Councils received N87.794 billion. Additionally, N46.007 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared with the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
Concerning the N200.000 billion augmentation, the Federal Government received N105.360 billion, State Governments received N53.440 billion, and Local Government Councils received N41.200 billion.
As stated in the communiqué, in June 2024, Companies Income Tax Oil (CIT) and Value Added Tax (VAT) showed significant increases, while Import and Excise Duties and Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) saw marginal increases. Conversely, Royalty Crude, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Rentals, and CET Levies experienced notable decreases.
The balance in the Excess Crude Account (ECA) stood at $473,754.57.
Gareth Southgate has confirmed his resignation as the manager of the England national team, following their recent loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
Southgate took on the role in 2016 during a period of struggle for the team. Under his leadership, England reached three semi-finals and two finals in the last four tournaments, a significant improvement from the team’s previous track record. Before Southgate’s tenure, England had only managed to reach three major tournament semi-finals and one final, which resulted in their historic 1966 World Cup win.
Expressing his deep pride and gratitude, the 53-year-old stated, “As a proud Englishman, it has been the greatest honor of my life to represent and manage the England national team. This journey has meant the world to me, and I have poured my heart and soul into it.”
In a comprehensive statement, Southgate continued, “However, it is now time for a change and a fresh start. The Euro 2024 final against Spain marked my final match as England manager. Since joining the FA in 2011 with a vision to elevate English football, I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional individuals who have my utmost appreciation.”
Southgate also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of his assistant, Steve Holland, describing him as an outstanding coach. He praised the players he had the privilege of leading in 102 matches, commending their pride in wearing the England jersey and their exemplary representation of their country on and off the field.
“The group of talented young players we brought to Germany is truly exciting, and I believe they have what it takes to achieve the dream of winning the trophy. I am incredibly proud of their dedication and skills. It is my hope that we can all rally behind the players, as well as the team at St. George’s Park and the FA, who work tirelessly every day to enhance English football and recognize the transformative impact football can have in driving positive change.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated backroom staff who have consistently supported both the players and myself over the past eight years. Their unwavering dedication and hard work served as a daily inspiration, and I am deeply thankful for their contributions as the exceptional ‘team behind the team.’
Our fans are undeniably the best in the world, and their unwavering support has meant everything to me. I am a passionate England supporter and always will be.
I eagerly anticipate witnessing and celebrating the players as they continue to create unforgettable moments, uniting and inspiring the nation as we all know they are capable of doing.
Ayo Fayose, the former Governor of Ekiti State, has raised concerns following the recent Supreme Court ruling that supports the direct allocation of monthly funds from the federation account to local governments.
A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Fayose highlighted that despite the court’s decision, obstacles to local government autonomy persist due to the actions of state Houses of Assembly and governors.
Speaking as a guest on Sunday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today, Fayose pointed out the inherent challenges in achieving true local government autonomy. He emphasized that without the backing of a governor, it is practically impossible for anyone from the grassroots to become a local government chairman. In his view, both the judiciary and the Federal Government cannot fully enforce local government autonomy.
Expressing his viewpoint, Fayose stated, “While I may not be a lawyer but a seasoned politician and an elder statesman by God’s grace, I firmly advocate against any form of government interference in local government funds distribution. It is important to understand that you cannot separate the local government from the state government. The local government chairman’s position is intricately tied to the governor’s support. Any suggestion otherwise is futile.”
Fayose further elaborated on the control mechanisms in place, noting that during his tenure as governor, funds were channeled from Abuja, managed by non-political entities separate from the council chairman and politicians. He highlighted the role of the House of Assembly in overseeing and regulating local government activities.
He concluded by questioning the true extent of power being delegated to local governments, emphasizing the current complexities and limitations within the system.
The PDP chieftain expressed his concerns about the lack of commitment among state lawmakers and council officials. He highlighted the issue of council officials not taking their responsibilities seriously, citing instances where many workers fail to show up for work on certain days of the week.
He emphasized the importance of respect for the governor within the local government system, stating that any council chairperson who disregards the governor’s authority is likely to face consequences from the House of Assembly. He explained that the House of Assembly oversees the activities of council chairpersons and ensures compliance with governance protocols.
The chieftain observed a significant absence of local government staff during council meetings on Wednesdays and Fridays, estimating that less than 10% of the workforce is present at the office. He challenged anyone to dispute this claim, emphasizing the prevalent lack of work ethic among local government employees. He criticized the tendency for NULGE and local government leaders to intervene on behalf of non-performing staff when attempts are made to hold them accountable.
In comparing the administrative efficiency of the state government to that of the local government, he noted a stark difference, alleging that many individuals working in the local government prioritize financial gain over fulfilling their duties. He pointed out instances where individuals have relocated from their assigned states yet continue to receive salaries, illustrating the systemic issues within the local government structure.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, has swear-in 25 newly-elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 local governments in the state with charge to embark on viable infrastructural projects and ensure modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent service delivery.
Governor Oborevwori also tasked them to avoid profligacy typified by wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle, but to address the recurring problems of insecurity, poverty, unemployment and environmental decay in the various local government areas.
Oborevwori gave the charge while swearing-in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 Local Government Areas in Asaba, the state capital.
He explained that it was necessary for the chairmen to stay close to the people by operating from their area headquarters and warned that they must shun the unhealthy practice of running the local governments from offshore, especially Asaba and Warri.
Governor Oborevwori, said: “To the elected Local Government Council Chairmen, I urge you to reciprocate the huge mandate that has been given to you by giving preference to the needs and aspirations of your people with a view to delivering good governance.
“You must discharge your duties with sincerity of purpose, impartiality, compassion, fairness, and justice and I expect you to work assiduously for the actualization of the MORE Agenda.
“As the third tier of government closest to the people, you need to improve the environmental sanitation in your communities. Our urban centres are riddled with filth as a result of improper waste disposal and poor sanitation habits of our people.
“I will like to see you step up in this regard by devising proper waste disposal measures, while embarking on aggressive public enlightenment campaign to educate our people on good sanitation habits.”
Governor Oborevwori, who reiterated that the state government does not tamper with local government funds, said he welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government autonomy, emphasising that statutory allocations
to the local governments in the state for the last three months remained intact.
He said as the then Speaker of the State House of Assembly, they voted for autonomy for the Councils during the 5th Constitution alteration session.
“I, therefore, expect you to hit the ground running by embarking on visible infrastructural projects that can be commissioned. You must shun wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle.
“Let your administrations be characterised by modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent project delivery.
“As Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, we advocated for financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary. The House also voted YES to Local Government autonomy during the Fifth Alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Therefore, the Supreme Court judgment on financial autonomy for local government councils is a welcome development. Actually, Delta State Government has never tampered with local government funds. Rather, the state government has often had to augment the allocations to the local government councils to enable them meet their financial obligations”, he said.
While charging the Chairmen to improve on their Internally -Generated Revenue, Governor Oborevwori cautioned against overtaxing an already burdened populace reeling under the painful effects of the current economic hardship.
He said: “Your success on this job will also depend on your ability to work seamlessly with your Vice Chairmen, the legislative arm and other critical stakeholders in the Local Government Area. Please, avoid running a one-man show.
“You must demonstrate the political sagacity to manage the local politics, and the administrative acumen to be all- inclusive to ensure peace, stability, and cohesion in your domains.”
He expressed appreciation to the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, for conducting free, fair and credible elections and to the security agencies for ensuring peace and security throughout the exercise across the state.
The newly elected Chairmen are Emmanuel Bazim Chinye, Aniocha North; Jude Chukwunkwike, Aniocha South; Dagidi Andaye, Bomadi; Julius Takeme, Burutu; Augustine Ogedegbe, Ethiope East; Christian Onogba, Ethiope West; Monday Odigwe, lka North East, Jerry Ehiwarior, lka South; Godwin Ogorugba, Isoko North; Warri Ovoke Friday, Isoko South; Vincent Osilonya, Ndokwa East; Obi Nzete, Ndokwa West; and Isaiah Esiovwa, Okpe.
Others are Innocent Esewezie, Oshimili North; Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Oshimili South; Isaac Aguanah, Patani; Bright Abeke, Sapele; Vincent Oyibode, Udu; Jaro Egbo, Ughelli North; Lucky Avweromre, Ughelli South; Possible Ajede, Ukwuani; Anthony Ofoni, Uvwie; Festus Ashima, Warri North; Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Warri South and Sylvester Oromoni, Warri South West.
While congratulating the new chairmen and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the resounding victory at the polls on Saturday, Governor Oborevwori said it was a product of weeks of grassroots campaign in which they did not take for granted and thanked the good people of Delta State who, in spite of the heavy downpour, came out and voted for the leaders of their choice.
Responding on behalf of the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, expressed appreciation to the governor and leaders of the PDP in the state for the opportunity given to them to serve at the grassroots level of governance.
He commended the electorate in the various local government areas for endorsing their candidature through the electoral mandate given to them at the polls, and assured that they have adopted the MORE Agenda of the Governor and would not betray the confidence reposed in them.
The highpoint of the ceremony which was attended by the wife of the governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; the Deputy Governor,
Sir Monday Onyeme, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Kingsley Esiso, and other top government functionaries, was the administration of oath of office on the chairmen and their deputies by the governor.
The traditional ruler of Ughievwen Kingdom, His Majesty Matthew Edirin Egbi, Owhawa II, Okobaro of Ancient Ughievwen Kingdom, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly sworn-in Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre.
In a statement signed on his behalf by Olorogun Matthew Akpogbemre Shaire, Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, and Olorogun John Okoro, Secretary of the Council of Chiefs, the monarch emphasized that the nomination, election, and subsequent swearing-in of Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre signify a beacon of hope and a new dawn for the people of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
The statement read, “On behalf of His Majesty Odjaberen, the Okobaro of Ancient Ughievwen Kingdom, The Royal Palace, the Council of Chiefs, and the Good and Peaceful People of Ancient Ughievwen (Jeremi) Kingdom at home and in diaspora, we extend our warmest congratulations to you, your family, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on your successful nomination and election as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government.
“Furthermore, we sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of our beloved state, the PDP State Party Chairman, and the Local Government Party Chairman for endorsing the PDP Candidate.
“My dear Chairman, on behalf of Ughievwen, we affirm our commitment to working closely with you to achieve remarkable success during your tenure in the Local Government. With the grace and mercies of Almighty God, we believe that success will be our portion.
“We also express our gratitude to the PDP Chieftains and the residents of Ughelli South Local Government Area for their continued support,” the statement concluded.
Hon. Festus Utuama, the representative of Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre on his inauguration as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
In a statement, Utuama expressed his admiration for Avweromre’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving his people.
He highlighted that Avweromre’s emergence and subsequent inauguration are a clear demonstration of his qualities as a leader.
“As you take on this crucial role, you have been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of Ughelli South Local Government Council,” the statement read.
“Your election as the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council reflects the trust and confidence that your constituents have in your leadership and ability to bring about positive change.
“Your history of service and achievements has undoubtedly been instrumental in your election. Your unwavering efforts to enhance the lives of the people of Ughelli South Local Government Council have not gone unnoticed.”.
“Your commitment to addressing the needs of the people, promoting development, and fostering unity is truly commendable.
“As Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, you have an invaluable opportunity to make a lasting impact.
“This is your chance to build upon the progress made thus far and to chart a course for a brighter future. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving effective governance, implementing progressive policies building on the developmental agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori the executive governor of Delta State, and ensuring that the voice of the people is heard.
“Your vast experience and knowledge will undoubtedly serve you well in this role. Your ability to engage with constituents, address concerns, and work collaboratively with various stakeholders will be crucial for successful governance. Your dedication to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability will be the cornerstone of your tenure.
“We have no doubt that under your leadership, Ughelli South Local Government Area will thrive. The constituency can look forward to a future characterized by progress, development, and enhanced opportunities.
“Your commitment to grassroots involvement, community empowerment, and sustainable development will undoubtedly usher in positive changes and a better quality of life for all residents.
Honorable Lucky Avweromre, as you embark on this new chapter of leadership, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes.
“May you continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a resolute commitment to the betterment of your people. Your dedication and service are an inspiration to others, and we are confident that you will make a profound impact during your tenure as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
Your dedication to addressing the needs of the people, promoting development, and fostering unity is truly admirable.
In your role as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, you hold a valuable opportunity to leave a lasting impact. This is your moment to build on the progress achieved so far and to set a course for a brighter future. Your leadership will play a key role in ensuring effective governance, implementing progressive policies in line with the development agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the executive governor of Delta State, and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.
Your wealth of experience and knowledge will undoubtedly be assets in this position. Your ability to connect with constituents, address their concerns, and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders will be essential for successful governance. Your commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability will form the foundation of your term in office.
We are confident that under your guidance, Ughelli South Local Government Area will flourish. The community can anticipate a future marked by progress, development, and increased opportunities. Your dedication to grassroots involvement, community empowerment, and sustainable development will undoubtedly bring about positive changes and improve the quality of life for all residents.
Honorable Lucky Avweromre, as you embark on this new chapter of leadership, we offer our sincere congratulations and best wishes. May you continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the advancement of your people. Your dedication and service are an inspiration to others, and we believe that you will make a significant impact during your term as Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council.
The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, has been declared the winner of the July 13, 2024, elections after polling 25,614 votes to defeat the APP candidate, who scored 4,882 votes.
He was subsequently issued certificate of return on July 14, 2024 by the Chairman of Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC).
Earlier, the returning officer, Mr. Moses Agwere Esq., who made the declaration in Asaba, stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) came in 3rd with 4,011 votes.
In a chat with the victorious candidate of the PDP, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, he thanked the Almighty God who made it possible and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his resilience and unwavering commitment to peace and development in Delta State and for ensuring that he emerged as the candidate of the party.
Avweromre also thanked the elders, leaders, women, and youths of the PDP in Ughelli South for having faith in him, nominating him as their candidate, and standing by him in the general election.
According to him, “this victory is for Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, and for democracy. I also want to thank my brothers who contested with me in this election.
“Especially the pragmatism of the APP candidate, Mr. Aaron Onosigho, who actually scored a good number of votes and today he is here, having congratulated me, he is indeed a man with the spirit of sportsmanship.
“I also thank the APC candidate, Mr. Billion. I want to tell them that now that I have been declared the winner, they should come and join hands with me because I am not the Chairman of the PDP alone but for all the good people of Ughelli South Local Government Area and all political parties.
“The efforts of the security agencies are not left out in ensuring that the election was peaceful,” he added.
Mr. Aaron Onosigho, APP chairmanship candidate in a conversation, stated that the election was peaceful and credible and affirmed that the PDP and its candidate won the election by a landslide.
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, characterized the Local Government Council election held on July 13, 2024, in his Ward as a demonstration of freedom, fairness, credibility, and transparency. He expressed confidence in a significant victory for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the forthcoming statewide polls.
Dr. Osuoza, addressing reporters shortly after casting his vote at Polling Unit 007 in Ward 10, Idumuje Ugboko, Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State around 10:30 am, commended the Delta State Independent Election Commission, DSIEC, for their punctuality in delivering election materials and ensuring a seamless, peaceful process in a conducive environment.
He remarked, “I commend DSIEC for overseeing a smooth, fair, transparent, and credible election. The early arrival of election materials and officials, along with their prompt setup, ensured everything was in place before polling commenced. I also appreciate the voters who turned out in large numbers to participate, reflecting their positive response to our campaigns.
“In line with our PDP principles, we consider every election significant. That’s why we conducted a comprehensive, energetic campaign across all Wards and Local Government Areas in the State for this council election, culminating in the impressive voter turnout we witnessed today.”
“I am absolutely confident that based on the turnout I observed at my polling unit today and the feedback I have received from our Local Government Area and other regions, the PDP is poised for a significant victory throughout the state in this election.
The Delta Information Commissioner then made an appeal to the people of Delta to continue supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration as he works to implement his MORE Agenda for the benefit of the citizens.
“I urge the people of Delta to stand by our esteemed Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as he continues to lead with focus, determination, and consistency, delivering impactful projects across the three Senatorial Districts. He is committed to providing tangible benefits of democracy through Meaningful Developmental initiatives, Opportunities for all, Realistic and impactful Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security for all Deltans. Let us join together in advancing Delta with the MORE Agenda,” he concluded.
