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Maritime University; You Have Touched the Base With Us Government Ekpemukpolo Tompolo Appreciates President Tinubu
By Our Reporter
The Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), and Ibe Ebidouwei of Ijaw nation, High Chief (Dr) Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo has sent a message of gratitude to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the signing into law an act establishing the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta state.
In a letter of appreciation released on Wednesday and signed by the security expert , he lauded the political will of the President on behalf of especially, His Majesty Pere Oboro- Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba,
Council of Chiefs and proud citizens of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.
Ekpemukpolo stated that for the Presidential assent that gave full legal backing to the institution, a validation words are not enough to express.
The security magnet maintained that Nigeria’s leadership has once again proved and displayed the love he had for the region and magnanimity towards the unwavering commitment and desire to learning, development of its people.
He described the President’s action as timely, and came at a time all hope was almost lost .
For having put behind us the pains of over one decade bordering on the legal framework, appears and a testament of good leadership, with a promise of a good followership from the region.
He restated .
He expressed joy that all legal encumbrances has been resolved that will pave way for the full development of the Maritime University.
Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo said the government decision will promote education in the region and the country at large .
He recalled that Ghana has only Maritime University, but with President Tinubu proactiveness, Nigeria has now joined the league of promoters of Maritime programs .
He said the development of oil and gas, employment opportunities, deter youth restivenes in the region.
Tompolo recalled that the administration’s commitment to the development of Education, advancement of learning, promoting academic, professional, research and innovation programs .
The release further states..
LETTER OF GRATITUDE TO HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR, FOR SIGNING INTO LAW THE ACT ESTABLISHING THE NIGERIA MARITIME UNIVERSITY, OKERENKOKO, DELTA STATE
His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Aso Rock Villa,
Abuja.
DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, WE CANT THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR THIS HEART-WARMING GESTURE
“I am writing on behalf of the good people of the Niger Delta, especially, His Majesty Pere Oboro- Gbaraun II, Aketekpe Agadagba,
Council of Chiefs and proud citizens of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State,
to express our most profound gratitude and reverence, for your historic endorsement of the 2025 ACT, establishing the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State.”
” It gave full legal backing to the institution, a validation we can’t find enough words to express appreciation.”
“This magnanimous gesture, thus symbolizes your goodwill towards the region and the unwavering commitment to the advancement of learning and development of its people.”
” It is an act that came in the nick of time, when all hope was almost exhausted.”
“Thank you Mr. President, you touched base with us, with this act of courage.”
“The Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko, established in 2014, has been existence, but the absence of an enabling Act hindered its full operationalization and potentials.”
“For a decade, the institution functioned, but without full legal status. It was on a life support, gasping for desired breath to stay alive.”
*Therefore, your unexpected approval and signing of the Bill into law caught us unaware and brought with it a total feeling of euphoria.”
“Now, the ACT will provide the necessary legal framework for the university to thrive.”
“This milestone ratification will undoubtedly promote education not only amongst indigenes of the Niger Delta, but Nigeria in its entirety, bridging the knowledge gap in the nation’s maritime sector.”
“Nothing skips Mr. President’s constantly roving attention.”
“As you are aware, Ghana was the only country in the West African subregion with a Maritime University. As it is, your visionary stewardship has bridged this gap, and Nigeria is now poised to improve its capacity and manpower in the maritime sector. ”
“The university will not only bring development to the oil and gas communities in the Niger Delta, but also curb the pervading youth restiveness in the region. It will create employment opportunities for our teeming youths, and others across the country.”
“The objectives of the university, as outlined in the Act, align with your administration’s commitment to encouraging the advancement of learning, developing and offering academic and professional programmes, and promoting research and innovation.’
“Mr. President, your signing of the Bill into law is indeed a testament to your friendship and dedication to the growth and development of the South/South zone .”
“Indeed, it authenticates and validates your mantra of RENEWED HOPE, for all Nigerians, no matter where they are domiciled.”
“I recalled that when you visited Oporoza, the ancestral headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, on Friday, November 25th, 2022, you made a pledge to our people to sign the Act establishing the university into law upon your election as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
“This is promise made and promise fulfilled.”
*Once again, let me express our sincere appreciation for this landmark achievement. ”
“Your leadership has rekindled enthusiasm amongst Niger Deltans.*
” It’s on this note that I also wish to congratulate and salute all of us in the South/South belt. Mr. President has done this for all of us. Let us continue to sustain the prevailing peace in our region and unite behind Mr. President in order to attract more development strides to our zone. ”
“Our dear Iyelawei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, we are confident that your government will continue to prioritize the development of the Niger Delta.”
“Your Excellency, sir, you have in this regard engraved your name in the hearts of the citizens of the Niger Delta, through this decision.”
“Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and unwavering support for your administration.”
Yours sincerely,
HIGH CHIEF (DR.) GOVERNMENT OWEIZIDE EKPEMUPOLO (ALIAS TOMPOLO) IBE-EBIDOUWEI OF IJAW NATION & CHAIRMAN, TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED (TSSNL).
National
Insecurity: APC Forum Accuses Governor Dauda Of Failing to Protect Citizens Amid Party’s Abductions
The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned the recent abduction of five party chieftains by armed bandits, accusing Governor Dauda Lawal of failing in his responsibility to protect citizens.
The kidnapped individuals, all from Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, were reportedly taken on Saturday while travelling to the Marafa area of the state.
The abductees include Yahaya Sani Dogon Kade, chairman of Dan Isah ward, Bello Dealer, chairman of Sakajiki ward, and three others whose names have not yet been released.
In a statement on Monday, its spokesperson Muhammed Ismaila Kaura criticised the governor’s handling of security in the state.
“As the chief security officer of the state, Governor Dauda Lawal bears the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safety of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation,” Kaura said.
“Unfortunately, he has failed to live up to this duty. This is not the time for excuses, blame games, or empty rhetoric. It is a time for decisive action.”
The party called for immediate and effective measures to secure the release of its members and to tackle the growing wave of banditry in the state.
“The people of Zamfara are tired of living in fear. We are tired of leaders who offer nothing but excuses while our brothers and sisters are being kidnapped, killed, and displaced. The time for action is now,” Kaura added.
The APC also urged security agencies to intensify efforts in tracking down the perpetrators and ensuring justice for the victims.
“This reprehensible act is not only an assault on the affected individuals and their families but also a direct attack on the peace and stability of our dear state,” the statement continued.
The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with the families of the abducted persons and vowed to continue pressing for their safe return.
“To the criminals behind this heinous act, let it be clear: Zamfara State belongs to its people, not to bandits. Your reign of terror must come to an end. And to the Governor, we say: act now, or history will remember you as a leader who failed his people in their time of greatest need.”
There has been no official response from the state government regarding the abductions. However, insecurity has remained a pressing issue in Zamfara, with frequent attacks by armed groups targeting both civilians and public officials under Governor Dauda lawal
In a dramatic turn of events, Mojisola Meranda has stepped down as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, ending her short-lived leadership tenure.
The lawmaker, who represents Apapa Constituency I, made the announcement on Monday, coinciding with her re-election as Deputy Speaker by fellow legislators.
Her leadership was marked by a tense political climate, but lawmakers commended her for maintaining stability and fostering peace within the Assembly. Additionally, her decision to step down was seen as an act of discipline and adherence to the principles of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Meranda’s resignation came after a reported closed-door meeting with influential APC leaders in Lagos, aimed at resolving the prolonged leadership crisis that had disrupted Assembly proceedings.
The crisis intensified on 13th January 2025, when lawmakers ousted Mudashiru Obasa, the representative of Agege Constituency I, from his position as Speaker.
Obasa was removed from office by more than two-thirds of the 40-member Assembly, with allegations of misconduct and administrative irregularities levelled against him. In the wake of his removal, Meranda was elected as Speaker, making history as the first female to lead the legislative body in the South-West region.
Despite being removed, Obasa refused to accept his dismissal, insisting that due process had not been followed. He challenged the legitimacy of the impeachment, citing the use of security forces during the process and arguing that he had been unfairly removed in his absence while travelling outside Nigeria.
The controversy deepened when 36 lawmakers, aligned with Meranda, stood firm in their decision, affirming that Obasa’s removal was final and that she remained the rightful Speaker. The standoff created heightened tensions within the Assembly, leading to an indefinite adjournment of legislative sessions on 17th February 2025.
The crisis escalated further when security personnel clashed with Assembly staff over control of the complex. Emotions ran high as lawmakers loyal to Meranda expressed their frustration over attempts to reinstate Obasa. In response, they passed a strong vote of confidence in her leadership, reinforcing their stance against his return.
However, Obasa re-emerged at the Assembly Complex on 27th February 2025, escorted by a heavy security detail. His return marked his first physical presence in the chambers since his impeachment, sending shockwaves through the political landscape. His insistence that he was still the Speaker reignited opposition from his colleagues, who maintained their support for Meranda and rejected his claims to the leadership position.
With Meranda stepping down and Obasa continuing to challenge his impeachment, the leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly remains in limbo.
Political analysts suggest that further negotiations within the APC may determine the final outcome of the power struggle.
Whether the lawmakers will rally behind a single leader or remain divided along political lines remains to be seen.
Mudashiru Obasa has been returned as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Obasa was reinstated following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down from the role with immediate effect.
Details later…