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Protect interest of micro-minorities in Niger-Delta – Discussants urges FG

Published

3 months ago

August 22, 2024

Admin

A member of discussant panel at the 3rd Coronation Anniversary Lecture of the Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiamme Atuwatse III, Chief Robinson Ariyo, the Egogo (Mouthpiece) of Warri Kingdom, has urged the federal government to set up a commission to protect the interest of Micro- Minorities in the Niger Delta region.

Speaking on the Anniversary Lecture theme; “The Challenges of Ethnic Minorities Within The Nigerian State”, yesterday at the Olu’s Palace Auditorium (Aghofen), Chief Ariyo, decried the conceived oppression and marginalization of the ethnic micro minorities by the majority ethnic groups even at the sub-regional level.

He amented the present arrangement where all three ethnic nationalities would collectively agitate for dividends of democracy either in terms of infrastructures or political appointments but when such finally comes the majority ethnic groups within the region would hijack it, leaving the micro-minorities with nothing to show for it at the end of the struggle.

The Egogo of the Iwere kingdom suggested the need for the various micro-minorities to begin to come together to synergies on how to chat a common course of liberating themselves, urging the Itsekiri nation to see the Ogoni’s and other ethnic groups they shared this same status as allies, in order to protect their interest.

Ariyo, a legal practitioner also stressed the importance of proper implementation of existing laws and policies to protect the rights of micro-minorities and ensure their survival in a landscape dominated by more prominent minority groups, noting that Nigerian constitution guarantees the survival of all ethnic nationalities in any part of the country.

However, the itsekiries who occupy three local government within the region, such as the Ecules, who predominantly reside in only three local government areas, argue that the definition of “minority” has been too broad and fails to capture their unique challenges.

According to him; “within the Niger Delta, there are relative majorities who have benefitted significantly from the struggles of the so-called minorities.

“This, they argued, has led to the oppression of micro-minorities by larger minority groups, particularly when it comes to accessing benefits from initiatives such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Amnesty office”

Continuing; “The Amnesty office, established in response to the demands of the Niger Delta region, has been dominated by these larger minority groups.

“This has led to the marginalization of micro-minorities, such as the Ogoni people, who now seek to form alliances with other micro-minorities to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are recognized.

“The Itsekiri people, who are a minority within Delta State, have been systematically excluded from key positions in the state government.

“Over the past nine years, itsekiries have been absent from top executive roles, including the positions of governor, deputy governor, and key commissioner posts in Delta State

“The call to redefine “minority” is not just about semantics but about ensuring that all groups, particularly micro-minorities, receive fair representation and access to the benefits intended for marginalized communities.

The ceremony witness Itsekiri sons and daughters in Delta State, paid homage to the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III as he celebrates his third (3rd) coronation anniversary. A delegation all over itsekiri lands

The Itsekiri indigenes, who paid homage to the Revered Monarch were from Sapele, Bobi and Obonteghareda Communities.

Others are; Holy Covenant Church, Ugboegungun, Aja-Etan, Dibi Field home-based women, Itsekiri Staff of College of Education, Warri, Ugbajo-Itsekiri, delegation from Warri South Council and members of University of Benin Alumni Association, Warri chapter, also paid homage to the Monarch.

The different groups, entertained the King with elegant dance steps and Itsekiri cultural songs, paying allegiance to the King’s reign on the exalted throne.

The Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III, flanked by his Queen, Olori Atuwatse III, later offered prayers to his subjects, including palace chiefs, who greeted him as tradition demands.

Other panel of discussants included; Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, Sir A. S Mene, while Prof Benson Osadalor, former Acting VC Ambrose Ali University (AAU) delivered the main lecture of the day.

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SEE Black Market Exchange Rate for Dollar (USD) to Naira (NGN)

Published

4 mins ago

November 10, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate Today on the Black Market (Aboki Dollar Rate)

As of Saturday, November 9, 2024, the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar to the Nigerian naira in the Lagos parallel market (often referred to as the black market) shows that the buying rate for a dollar is N1740, while the selling rate stands at N1745, according to sources at Bureau De Change (BDC).

It’s important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market for foreign exchange transactions. In line with this, the CBN has advised individuals and businesses looking to exchange foreign currencies to approach authorized banks and financial institutions for their Forex needs.

Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange Rates Today:

Buying Rate: N1740

Selling Rate: N1745

Official Dollar to Naira Exchange Rates (CBN Rates) Today:

Buying Rate: N1664

Selling Rate: N1665

Please keep in mind that the exchange rates listed here are subject to fluctuation and may differ from those in actual transactions, as rates can vary depending on the location and the specific forex market you engage with. Always ensure that you check the current rates with authorized sources before making any exchange

News

Actor Charles Okocha reveals why he kept his fiancee from limelight

Published

6 mins ago

November 10, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Nollywood actor Charles Okocha has shared his thoughts on the right time to settle down, revealing that after years of being a “baby daddy,” he believes now is the time to commit. He spoke candidly about his decision to marry, noting that it was a natural step for him at this stage in his life.

In an interview, Okocha revealed that he has been secretly dating his bride-to-be since 2017, explaining, “I am getting married because it’s only right for me to be married. We have been dating since 2017, quietly, with no social media show of affection. She lives in America and is a nurse. So, it is true.”

Regarding his children’s reaction to the news, he added, “My kids are very comfortable and happy with the news.”

Okocha, a father of two from previous relationships, made the announcement of his upcoming marriage on Instagram on November 5, 2024. Sharing adorable photos with his fiancée, Okocha introduced the wedding hashtag #MICHARLES2024, confirming that the ceremony will take place this year.

Some fans were surprised by the news, considering his earlier reservations about marriage, which he expressed in a previous interview. “The truth is, I have never been married in my life, and I am a happy man. You and I know what is going on these days; you see a couple married for a few years, and next, they are divorced. These are people you’ve looked up to, and now they’re divorced; how, then, do you want me to get into this marriage thing?”

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Ex- President, Obasanjo opens up on belonging to a party

Published

8 mins ago

November 10, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that he does not affiliate with any political party, identifying himself instead as a “no-party statesman.”

His declaration comes amidst the challenges Nigeria is currently facing, which he acknowledged during a recent event. However, Obasanjo also expressed a message of hope and resilience for the Nigerian people.

The statement was made on Saturday during a special thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Church, Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity in Abuja. The occasion was to celebrate the 80th birthday of Onyema Ugochukwu, a distinguished journalist and former Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

During the service, Obasanjo praised Ugochukwu for his loyalty and support during Obasanjo’s 1999 presidential campaign. He highlighted that despite the competitive race within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), where both he and Chief Alex Ekwueme vied for the same position, Ugochukwu stood by him. This act of loyalty, according to Obasanjo, was significant in the building of strong political relationships at the time.

In his speech, the former president encouraged Ugochukwu to continue to walk in faith and remain devoted to serving humanity in all his endeavors. “You must never allow your faith to wane,” Obasanjo said, referring to a passage from 1 Corinthians 13. He urged the celebrant to maintain hope and optimism even in the face of Nigeria’s current difficulties, which he acknowledged as being particularly daunting.

Obasanjo emphasized the power of love, encouraging Ugochukwu to carry love in all aspects of his life. “Let your love for your family, friends, and even those who may be your adversaries, guide you,” he added. “Extend that love to your community, your state, your country, and ultimately, to all of humanity. Above all, maintain your love for God.”

Reflecting on his own political journey, Obasanjo recalled the early days of his campaign and the dynamics that led to his eventual success in the 1999 election. “I first became acquainted with you through your reputation, and we came together during the campaign. At that time, I was contesting against Alex Ekwueme in the PDP, and you supported me loyally throughout the process,” he shared.

In this heartfelt address, Obasanjo urged not only Ugochukwu but all Nigerians to remain hopeful, resilient, and committed to serving their communities with love, despite the challenges facing the nation.