Supreme Court PDP Judgement: Gov Okowa Congratulates Makarafi

The Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on their victory at the Supreme Court on Wednesday.

Reacting to the ruling in Asaba, the state capital, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, the governor lauded the Supreme Court for the sound ruling which has put an end to the protracted leadership crisis that has bedeviled the party.

According to Okowa, “I on behalf of the good people of Delta State, home of the PDP, congratulate the Senator Markafi-led PDP for the victory recorded today at the Supreme Court.

“It has been a tortuous journey for the party but, I am glad that the Supreme Court has put the crisis to an end. I congratulate members of our great party particularly the National Chairman, Senator Ahmed Makarfi and members of the National Caretaker Committee for this well deserved victory.

“It is a victory for the Board of Trustees, Governors Forum of the party, National Assembly Caucus, State Chairmen’s forum and other stakeholders.

“This judgement is victory for Democracy because, the Judiciary had always proven their independence and wisdom, it is a reawakening for our great party to provide the much needed leadership for our country, Nigeria. It was a case of PDP Vs PDP, so, we should remain united and committed to the slogan of the PDP – power to the people.

“As the biggest political party in Africa despite losing the Presidential elections in 2015, it is time for us to rebuild our house, remain united, accommodate those who are leaving other political parties to the party that is truly democratic and believes in the rule of law, a political party that has the interest of the common man on the street at heart and continue to ensure that the best is achieved for the country.”

“I commend the Judiciary for its commitment to setting precedence that will sustain Nigeria’s democracy; I commend all Nigerians for their prayers while the internal rumbling lasted and I give glory to God for ensuring that democratic tenets are consolidated in the country.”

He further called on party faithful to be accommodating to any Nigerian who wishes to join the party, noting, “the umbrella is large enough to accommodate any Nigerian, it is a party Nigerians are happy to identify with.”

By John Owen Nwachukwu

Okowa Proceeds On 15-Day Leave, Names Deputy Acting Gov.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa OF Delta State has proceeded on a 15-Day leave as part of his annual vacation.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, on Thursday, in Asaba, said “In line with the provisions of Section 190 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Governor has written to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly intimating the House of his intention to proceed on his annual leave.

The letter also stated that the Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, will act as Acting Governor during the period of the leave.

The letter read: “I send warm greetings to the Right Honourabe Speaker, and write to intimate the Honourable House, that I would be proceeding on 15 days leave which will form part of my 2017 annual vacation from Monday, June 26 to Wednesday, July 12, 2017, while the remaining part of my annual leave will be enjoyed later in the year.

“In accordance with Section 190 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, His Excellency, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, shall perform the duties of my office as Acting Governor during the period of my absence on leave.

“I will greatly appreciate if the foregoing is placed before the Honourable House for information. Please, accept the assurances of my high regard and best wishes for you and the Honourable Members of the House.” the letter stated.

According to Aniagwu, the Governor is expected to resume work on July 12, 2017 and urged Deltans to extend the same support and cooperation to the Deputy Governor while he performs his functions as Acting Governor.

By Paul Osuyi

Delta State Government To Shut Down Asaba Airport For Repairs

Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa has said the Asaba Airport will be shut down for major repairs to be carried out at the B Section of the airport, while repairs on the runway are already nearing completion.

He said this was to ensure the airport met the requirements of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Agency (NCAA).

Okowa was speaking while on tour of the ongoing upgrade of the airport.

He expressed confidence that the airport would be the best in the South-south and South-east region of the country.

“The only time that the airport will be put to a close will be when they are dealing with the Section B. At that point in time, because it is at the middle section you will not have the 2.4 kilometres that is needed.

“I am told that, that aspect has to be left for the dry season so that there is a much shorter time of closure of the airport.

“We will work in the best interest of the state and the passengers to deliver our schedules. The important thing is that the work in Section A is well done,” Okowa said.

By Ifreke Inyang