WAFFI TV | Feature

Rivers Civil Servants Threaten Mass Protest Over Budget Delay

A coalition of concerned civil servants in Rivers State, along with the Rivers Solidarity for Good Governance, has issued a firm ultimatum to the state House of Assembly, demanding it receive the 2025 budget from the executive branch by Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The groups condemned what they described as "reckless inaction and obstruction of governance," warning of mass resistance if their demands were not met. Speaking at a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the civil servants, led by Opu-Oyibo Lilly-West, criticized the Assembly for repeatedly delaying the budget's receipt, arguing that the inaction has plunged thousands of workers, traders, and residents into economic uncertainty. “Your blatant disregard for the urgent needs of our state has placed critical contracts and salaries at risk. “By choosing spectacle over service, you have endangered the future of our public institutions and betrayed the trust of every citizen who depends on a stable, functioning government,” Lilly-West said. The groups demanded that the budget be submitted without further delay and be fully presented before the Assembly by March 19, 2025, as requested for in the letter written by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. They described their demand as “a command backed by the righteous fury of thousands of civil servants, their families, and the broader community.” The coalition warned that failure to comply would result in large-scale protests, emphasising that they would not tolerate any further delay or political maneuvering. “The tide of resistance will be unstoppable,” the groups declared. “The collective might of the civil service and the distressed voices of our people will rise in defiant protest against this gross negligence. This is not a threat—it is a promise of action.” Calling for an end to what they described as “empty rhetoric,” the groups urged the state assembly to abandon “farcical games” and fulfill its obligations.

3/18/2025, 5:03:33 PM

Bill Mandating Facebook, Bloggers, Others To Have Offices In Nigeria Passes Second Reading

The Senate has passed the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to require social media platforms to establish physical offices within the country. Sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), the bill—titled *A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, to Mandate the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Territorial Boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms, and for Related Matters, 2025 (SB. 650)*—aims to enhance local representation and regulatory compliance. Leading the debate, Senator Nwoko emphasized Nigeria’s significant digital presence, ranking first in Africa and second globally in social media usage, with citizens spending an average of three hours and 46 minutes online daily, according to a Global Web Index report cited by *Business Insider Africa*. Despite this high engagement, he noted that major social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat do not maintain physical offices in Nigeria, unlike in other countries. He outlined the challenges posed by this absence, including economic losses, limited local representation, and difficulties in legal and data protection compliance. The bill also introduces new regulations for bloggers in Nigeria, requiring them to: – Establish a verifiable office in any of the country’s capital cities. – Maintain proper employee records. – Belong to a recognized national bloggers' association headquartered in Abuja. Senator Nwoko argued that these measures would promote accountability, transparency, and professionalism in Nigeria’s digital media space, aligning it with traditional media standards. He stressed that the bill is not an attack on social media companies but a call for equity and recognition of Nigeria’s global digital influence. Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the benefits of local offices for digital platforms but noted that the regulation of bloggers requires careful consideration. He stated: ‘It’s good to have an address, but bloggers are slightly different. I think the best thing is for the bill to go for a second reading and subsequently public hearing for much more streamlined clarity”. He noted that the bill should not be perceived as an attempt to gag social media but rather as a framework for appropriate taxation and record-keeping for digital platforms operating in Nigeria.

3/18/2025, 3:36:37 PM

Reps Pass Tax Reform Bills

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved the four tax reform bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu in October 2024. Last Thursday, the House reviewed and endorsed the report from the Committee on Finance, which included recommendations on contentious issues like Value Added Tax and inheritance tax. With the Senate's approval still pending, the bills are expected to be forwarded to the President for assent in the coming days.

3/18/2025, 1:56:04 PM

Delta Gov Calls For Slash In House Rents

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged real estate firms in the state to lower rental costs on properties. Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Mr. Johnson Erijo, the governor made the appeal on Monday at the 13th anniversary and annual convention of Property World Africa Network Marketing Company in Asaba, the state capital. “I would like to use this medium to appeal to real estate organisations to help in reducing the cost of rents payable on rented properties. “The current skyrocketing rents are not sustainable, especially for public service workers. I urge you to apply your innovative skills to find ways to make housing more affordable,” he said.

3/18/2025, 7:42:47 AM

Diezani Seeks Court Order To Retrieve Seized Assets

Former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to recover her seized properties from their buyers. In an amended application filed by her lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), before Justice Inyang Ekwo, she requested the court to nullify the EFCC’s public notice, which led to the auction of her assets. She argued that the sale violated statutory provisions, including the EFCC Act of 2004 and the Proceeds of Crime Recovery and Management Act of 2022. Alison-Madueke contended that the auction breached her right to a fair hearing under Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution. She also sought an order restraining the EFCC from further disposing of her properties and requested an extension of time to challenge the forfeiture orders. The EFCC had announced that her assets would be auctioned between January 9 and 13, 2023. In response, Alison-Madueke filed an originating motion (FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023) on January 6, seeking to halt the sale. However, in a counter-affidavit filed on March 14, the EFCC urged the court to dismiss her suit. Litigation officer Oyakhilome Ekienabor asserted that investigations into her tenure had led to criminal proceedings, and the properties were sold following final forfeiture orders issued in 2019. He maintained that the sales adhered to due process and did not violate her right to a fair hearing.

3/18/2025, 7:34:31 AM

Hardship: House Of Reps Members Donate N705m To Tinubu

Members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives have contributed N705 million, half of their basic salaries from July to December 2024—to support President Bola Tinubu’s initiative for vulnerable citizens. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced this on Monday during a Ramadan fast-breaking event with the President and Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa. He stated that the gesture was a show of solidarity, demonstrating that lawmakers empathized with Nigerians facing economic hardship. The decision followed concerns over a possible nationwide youth protest against rising living costs, food scarcity, and unemployment. Lawmakers said the donation aimed to support the Tinubu administration’s efforts to address the economic crisis. The resolution of the House was sequel to a motion of urgent importance for “An appeal to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest, to maintain peace, eschew violence and open windows for meaningful engagements with the governments at all levels in order to address their issues.” The motion was sponsored by the member representing Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Ibrahim Isiaka, during plenary. Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Monday, Abbas announced that the money was ready to be handed over to the Presidency. “The House decided on our own that we need to do something symbolic to show our concern to the entire people of Nigeria that the predicament they were in, we also felt it. “And because of that, we took a resolution that from July 2024 to December 2024 will sacrifice 50% of our basic salaries so I will now set that money aside and contribute and donate to you, so that you can also use it to look at the targeted areas in Nigeria where we have vulnerable people who I need of food, shelter, accommodation, clothing and what have you. “We leave it to you to decide on where and where you want to intervene. But it is a symbolic contribution from the house to show you, as well as show the whole entire nation, that the passage of that particular period was being felt by each and every one of us. “Your Excellency, I’m happy to inform you that the House contributed the sum of 705 million naira, being the 50% of our monthly salary for the for a period of six months,” he said.

3/18/2025, 7:21:02 AM

Otuaro, Omula Families Express Profound Gratitude Over Successful Burial Of Late Mrs. PinaPina

The Otuaro and Omula families have extended their heartfelt appreciation to all who showed love, support, and solidarity during the burial rites of their beloved matriarch, Ma Pinapina Otuaro (née Omula). In a statement signed by Pst. Benson Omula and H.E. Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, Esq., the families acknowledged the overwhelming emotional, financial, and material support they received, describing it as “beyond measure.” They particularly thanked the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for their physical presence and encouragement during the solemn occasion. Special appreciation was also extended to former Delta State Governors Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and Chief James Ibori for their support, mentorship, and guidance. The families also recognized the contributions of Delta State political leaders, including Sen. J.E. Manager, Chief Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi (J.P.), Rt. Hon. Julius G. Pondi, Hon. Barr. Evelyn Oboro, and members of the National and State Assemblies. The statement further acknowledged the support of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, the Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, and monarchs from Gbaramatu, Ogulagha, and Obotebe Kingdoms, among others. High Chief Tunde Smooth, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, and many other dignitaries were also recognised for their invaluable contributions. Read the full statement below: HEARTFELT APPRECIATION FROM THE OTUARO AND OMULA FAMILIES FOR YOUR LOVE, SUPPORT, AND SOLIDARITY DURING THE BURIAL RITES OF OUR BELOVED MOTHER, MA. PINAPINA OTUARO (NÉE OMULA) Words cannot fully express the depth of our gratitude to God Almighty and to everyone who stood by us during the burial rites of our beloved mother, Ma Pinanapina Otuaro (née Omula). The overwhelming love, prayers, and emotional, financial, and material support extended to us were truly touching. The outpouring of favor, grace, and generosity we received was beyond measure, and we remain forever grateful. To His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, and His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, Governor of Taraba State—your physical presence and encouragement for the Otuaro family during such trying times meant so much to us, and we are very thankful. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for your well wishes and support. May I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to our highly esteemed and legendary former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, for your mentorship, guidance, and encouragement during this period. Your love and support for the Otuaro family are truly distinctive. We deeply appreciate the Chairman of PDP Delta State, Chief Solomon Areyinka, and the entire State Working Committee for their unwavering support. To Sen. J.E. Manager, Chief Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi (J.P.), Rt. Hon. Julius G. Pondi, Hon. Barr. Evelyn Oboro and all Members of the National Assembly, we love you all. A special thank you to my brother, the Hon. Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi D. Guwor, for your support and having keen attention to details in the supervisory responsibilities during the burial rites. And the Hon. Members of the State House of Assembly, members of the Delta State Executive Council, and the Local Government Chairmen of Burutu, Udu, Uvwie, and Warri South-West. Our appreciation goes to the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, led by the first Vice Chairman , HRM Pere Luke Kalanama VIII of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom. Also worthy of note is the Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, led by HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), the Paramount Ruler of oil-rich Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area, for their unwavering support for the Otuaro family during this period. Thank you HRM. Pere of Ogulagha Kingdom for the enduring strength of our heritage and unity. And the Pere of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II. Thank you so much Majesty for the royal blessings and support given during the funeral rites of our mother, your sister. May the crown rest on your head long in guidance and the continual prosperity of the ancient Kingdom of Gbaramatu. To the revered Chiefs of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Obotebe Kingdom, and other kingdoms, the We say thank you. A heartfelt thank you to my brother, High Chief Tunde Smooth, for your guidance, immeasurable marine logistics, and moral support. I am honored to have you always as a dependable brother. Our appreciation goes to Dcn. Joe Fuludu, Dcness Cindy Abraham, Hon. George Ugulasuowei Timinimi., Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Chief Favour Izoukumor, Chief Kenneth Braimoh, Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, Hon. Barr. Kingsley Kuku, Barr. Wilson Ajuwa, Mr. Amah Etuwewe, SAN. Prof. Flora Ubebe, Prof Blessing Tosan. Mr. Hillary Ibegbulem, Hon. Dan Yingi, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, the KBO Family, and our friends from Northern Nigeria, led by Alhaji Aminu Yar'Adua. To the Chairman and members of the NBA, Warri Branch, the Isaba grammar sch Old students' association and my highly esteemed colleagues of Law Class ’99 of Edo State University, Ekpoma, thank you so much for upholding our shared values of love and togetherness. We say thank you to the Clergymen of Ijaw Christian Forum, delegations from Opuba and Ajapa communities from Arogbo kingdom and the Eridi family from Emadaja community in Udu LGA, We are grateful. To the Delta State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mr. John Kwaghe, and Corps members, thank you for your solidarity and assistance. Our special thanks also goes to Mr. Rilwanu Momodu of Chevron and Mr. Mesh Maichibi of SPDC, Pst. Irikefe Ufuoma, Engr. Hassan Garuba. We say thank you to the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) in Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West Local Government Areas for your unwavering support. We want to specially thank the Burial Committee, led by Mr. Jimoh Keneye and Chief Mathew Ebifiebebe, for your tireless efforts, meticulous planning, and exceptional coordination. The seamless execution of every detail, the orderliness, and the peace experienced throughout the burial were a true testament to your dedication, competence, and teamwork. You all carried out this responsibility with distinction, and we are deeply grateful for your outstanding service. May we duly thank and appreciate my brother, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, the incumbent leader of the "Oporozawei House" and its select leadership, for the immeasurable financial and material support. May the good Lord bless our "Oporozawei House" richly in Jesus' name. Amen. Finally, our heartfelt special appreciation and gratitude go to the Loveworld Nation (Christ Embassy Church), Ministry Centre, Warri, under the leadership of Highly Esteemed Pastor Mary Owase. Thank you for being the pivotal upon which the success of the funeral revolved. We are eternally grateful to the leadership of Loveworld Nation, whose unflinching assistance and prayers meant so much to us. From the depths of our hearts, we pray that the Almighty blesses and rewards everyone abundantly in Jesus name, Amen. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! Signed: Pst. Benson Omula (For the Family) H.E. Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, Esq. The immediate past deputy Governorof DeltaState (For the Children)

3/17/2025, 4:04:23 PM

Fubara Accuses Lawmakers Of Frustrating Efforts To Implement Supreme Court Judgement

The Rivers State Government has accused the State House of Assembly of hindering Governor Siminalayi Fubara from fully executing the Supreme Court judgment. Addressing a press conference in Port Harcourt on Monday, the state Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, emphasized that Governor Fubara remains dedicated to enforcing the court’s ruling, despite its unfavorable outcome.

3/17/2025, 3:38:15 PM

NASU Issues 7 day Strike Notice To WAEC

The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has given the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) a seven-day ultimatum to address a four-point demand related to workers' welfare and alleged victimization of labor leaders. Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos on Monday, NASU General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, warned that all WAEC offices nationwide would be shut down from Monday, March 24, if their demands are not met.

3/17/2025, 3:30:35 PM

My Father Is Nigeria’s Greatest President~ Seyi Tinubu

Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has praised his father as Nigeria’s most exceptional leader. In a widely shared video on Monday, Seyi made this remark while addressing a group of young people in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State. “It was never politics, but they keep coming for me, they keep coming for my family, they keep coming for your father, they keep coming for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the greatest president in the history of Nigeria,” he declared. Seyi Tinubu also commended his father’s leadership, emphasising his commitment to youth empowerment and economic development. “He is the only president that has kept your people at home, from when he was governor to when be became president, the only president that considers youths, the only president that created a platform for young people to fly. “The only president that created an economy that has benefitted everybody, the only president that is not trying to enrich his own pocket,” he asserted.

3/17/2025, 1:27:52 PM

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