CHRAN Advocates for 3rd party insurance Compliance as Traffic Law Enforcement Begins in A'Ibom

By Freshgist 

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has joined the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, FSI, to advocate compliance of Third Party Insurance for vehicle owners in the state.

Led by CHRAN Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, the delegation visited the State Police Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo on Friday, where they congratulated CP Azare on his recent appointment and acknowledged the significant strides he has made since taking office.

 CHRAN commended the Commissioner for his proactive efforts in addressing crime and ensuring public safety in Akwa Ibom.

Isong hails CP Azare's ongoing consultations with key stakeholders as the Command prepares for the enforcement of laws such as the Anti-Open Grazing Law and the Motor Vehicle Third Party Insurance Law, effective February 1, 2025.

CHRAN emphasized the importance of safeguarding human rights during the enforcement of these regulations, urging the Akwa Ibom State Police to ensure that officers adhere to the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on the Third Party Insurance law, while avoiding any violations of citizens' rights.

The group applauded CP Azare for engaging with various stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Said the efforts aim to raise public awareness ahead of the enforcement deadline.

CHRAN described these meetings as clear indicators of the Commissioner's commitment to fostering positive relationships with the public. 

The organization also stressed that ongoing dialogues between the Police and the public would help build trust and facilitate the flow of information, contributing to overall peace and security in the state.

While appreciating the efforts, CHRAN requested an extension of the enforcement deadline beyond February 1, 2025, potentially until April 2025, to allow for further sensitization. The organization also called for both offline and online Third Party Insurance documents to be accepted during enforcement, as long as they are valid and in compliance with the law.

In his response, CP Azare thanked the CHRAN team for their visit, recognizing their dedication to working with the Police for the greater good. He expressed the readiness of the State Command to collaborate with CHRAN in ensuring the protection of lives and property in Akwa Ibom. CP Azare also reassured that the Police would continue to prioritize human rights training for officers to prevent abuses during enforcement.

Addressing concerns about corruption and extortion, CP Azare assured that he had instructed Area Commanders to ensure strict adherence to professional conduct and to take immediate action if any violations are reported. He encouraged the public to report any incidents of extortion through the designated channels.

Regarding the request for an extension of the enforcement date, CP Azare reminded that the IGP had already granted a three-month postponement, and public awareness efforts have been underway for some time. He noted that no extension would suffice for motorists who are unwilling to comply with the law.

To support the awareness efforts, CHRAN Director Otuekong Franklyn Isong announced the formation of a 5-member committee tasked with conducting extensive outreach across Akwa Ibom to ensure all vehicle owners are informed about the need for valid Third Party Insurance documents. 

This committee will also continue working with stakeholders to ensure compliance with human rights standards during law enforcement.

The committee will be chaired by Comrade (Dr.) Victor David, with Comrade Nsima Udom, Esq. serving as Secretary. Other members include Comrades Emmanuel Ika, Julius Nsikak, and Asuquo Etukudo.

This engagement comes in anticipation of the enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Third Party Insurance Law, as directed by IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, requiring all vehicle owners to obtain valid Third Party Insurance from February 1, 2025.

AKSG Announces Extended verification for 8,924 public servants

 

By Freshgist 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced an Extended Verification Exercise to re-assess 8,924 public servants who either missed or failed to meet the necessary requirements in the recently concluded verification process.

 This was revealed by the Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, during a media briefing at his office who disclosed that "Out of the total number, 2,924 public servants did not attend the verification, while more than 6,000 attended but did not meet the set standards due to issues such as mismatched records, incorrect NINs, and invalid bank details."

In response, Governor Umo Eno has approved an extension of the verification period by one month. "The Governor has kindly granted an additional 30 days for those whose verification failed or those who missed it. After this period, anyone who does not complete the verification will no longer be considered a part of the Akwa Ibom State Public Service," Essien explained.

Additionally, the Governor has instructed that pensioners' records also be verified. "The Governor has directed that we ensure the accuracy of pensioners' records as part of the ongoing verification process," he added.

Essien commended Governor Umo Eno for his worker-friendly leadership, describing him as approachable and attentive to the needs of the state's workers. "Governor Umo Eno is compassionate and always ready to listen to the concerns of his people," Essien stated.

Also, Governor Umo Eno has also approved the recruitment of 600 health workers and 100 occupational safety officers to strengthen healthcare services and enhance workplace safety in Akwa Ibom State. The announcement was made by the Head of Service during the same briefing.

Essien explained that the health sector will benefit from the recruitment of 400 workers in the primary healthcare sector and 200 in the secondary healthcare sector. "This initiative will significantly improve healthcare delivery across the state," he said. The recruitment of 100 professional safety officers will also ensure better workplace safety for workers.

He encouraged all eligible candidates to apply through the Akwa Ibom State employment portal, which will ensure fairness and transparency in the recruitment process. "This is part of Governor Umo Eno's vision to address unemployment and promote transparency in all public service recruitment," Essien noted.

Essien also confirmed that the Governor has recently approved an increase in pensions for retired workers in the state. "Pensioners who retired before 2007 have received an increase of ₦20,000, while those who retired between 2007 and 2012 saw an increase of ₦15,000. Additionally, retired permanent secretaries who retired before 2007 have also benefited from this increase," Essien stated.

He further emphasized the importance of ensuring the accuracy of pension records and ensuring all eligible pensioners continue to receive their benefits.

Governor Umo Eno's administration remains committed to improving the welfare of workers and retirees. From the ₦80,000 minimum wage for verified workers to the clearing of pension arrears, these efforts reflect the Governor’s focus on good governance and public service reform.

EMOIMEE launches over N100M Empowerment Program to curb hardship in Akwa Ibom

 

By Freshgist 

 The NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust Fund has flagged off over N100 million economic empowerment for 200 indigene in Akwa Ibom State. 

Speaking during officially flagged off in Ikot Ekong, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, Engr. Sunny Udo, the  council's representative of the Board of Trustees  expressed optimism that the program would serve as a catalyst for job creation in the region, especially for the youth. 

He explained that participants in the initiative would be trained in various agro-business sectors, such as fishery, poultry, and piggery, and would each receive a financial grant of ₦500,000 to start/ boost their businesses.

“EMOIMEE is here to stay and transform Mkpat Enin, We are committed to training the youth in various entrepreneurial skills, equipping them with the resources needed to create sustainable businesses and employment for others.” said Udo

It was gathered that program’s impact is already being felt through previous initiatives, including the awarding of scholarships to 74 indigenous students, a large-scale medical outreach that benefited over 2,000 people, and the provision of solar-powered street lights and fishing boats to enhance local infrastructure. 

Udo further noted that ongoing projects are focused on small business training and improving the quality of education through teacher training and recruitment.

The traditional ruler of Mkpat Enin, HRM Edidem Akpan Akpan Ekpene, who was represented by the village head of Ikot Ekong, Eteidung Raymond Udia, commended the program for its transparency and for prioritizing the welfare of the community.

 “We are witnessing a transformation in Mkpat Enin, and it is encouraging to see such impactful initiatives taking place here,” said Udia.

Udia also advised beneficiaries to use the financial support for business purposes, urging them not to divert funds for personal indulgences. “This is an opportunity to invest in yourself and your future. Use the money wisely to create jobs and improve your livelihoods,” he said.

Secretary to the Mkpat Enin Local Government Council, Aniedi Ekanem, lauded the initiative, emphasizing that it aligned with the vision of the state government. “The EMOIMEE program is a vital intervention that will help our people overcome economic hardships and move toward sustainable growth,” Ekanem said.

Rev. Obot Ekanem, a member of the Trust’s Management Committee, listed out the success of the program, sharing that 20 tricycles had been distributed to local youths, with beneficiaries already using them to run profitable businesses.

 “EMOIMEE is making a real difference,” Ekanem noted. “We are providing support directly to the people, ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed.”

Beneficiaries of the program, such as Mr. Usenobong Donatus, and Imaobong Okon Akpan, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity. “This initiative is a game-changer. It’s giving us the tools and financial support we need to pursue our dreams and create businesses,” said Okon Akpan.

Elder Ifiok Ekanem, the NUT Chairman of Mkpat Enin, also praised the teacher training aspect of the program, noting that it addressed long-standing concerns over staffing shortages in local schools. “This is a much-needed step in the right direction. We appreciate EMOIMEE for addressing these challenges,” he said.

Prof. Etete Peters, the immediate past Chief Medical Director of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, expressed confidence that the initiative would empower Mkpat Enin indigenes, helping them to become employers of labor and contributing to the overall development of the region.

 “This program is not just about providing financial aid; it’s about building sustainable businesses that will support the community for years to come,” Peters remarked.

EMOIMEE, a community-focused initiative covering the oil-producing areas of Eket, Mkpat Enin, Onna, Ikot Abasi, Mbo, Esit Eket, and Eastern Obolo, was established by ExxonMobil and is now managed by Seplat Energy. 

As the program continues, further batches of beneficiaries are expected to join the initiative, which aims to address the socio-economic challenges of the region while fostering sustainable development.

BREAKING: ARISE News Team On the Ground for Trump Inauguration, World Economic Forum

 

By Freshgist 

ARISE News has dispatched a dedicated team to cover two major global events this week. Led by Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Nduka Obaigbena, the network is providing exclusive, live coverage from Washington DC as Donald Trump is inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States.

At the invitation of a former ARISE News staff member, now a surrogate for Trump, Obaigbena and his team are set to deliver in-depth reporting of the inauguration, with live updates throughout the day. The team includes journalists Ohi Odiai, Adefemi Akinsanya, who has traveled from Turkey, and Opeyemi Adenihun, ensuring a diverse and global perspective on the proceedings.

In parallel, ARISE News anchors Rotus Oddiri, Adesuwa Omoruan, and Ivica Babic have arrived in Davos, Switzerland, for the prestigious World Economic Forum. There, they will cover key discussions as global business leaders converge, including the Nigerian economic team, led by Vice President Kashim Shetima, who is presenting Nigeria’s economic agenda.

GHL Denies Allegations of Fund Diversion by First Bank of Nigeria

 

General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) has issued a formal rebuttal to recent allegations from First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), claiming that the company misappropriated funds and engaged in financial misconduct. 

In a statement signed by the company’s Director of Strategy & Operations, Abdelmuizz Bello, on Friday and made available to our Correspondent, asserting that GHL adhered strictly to all contractual obligations and financial agreements.

According to the statement, GHL rejects FBN’s accusations, stating that the bank has not provided any concrete evidence to support claims of fund diversion. The company affirms that all payments were made directly by FBN’s Credit and Risk teams to the service providers, in line with agreed procedures.

However, GHL points out that FBN breached the Tripartite Agreement by failing to disburse funds within the stipulated five-day period. This failure triggered a significant operational crisis, as highlighted by a critical situation involving the Blackford Dolphin drilling rig off Nigeria’s coast on October 7, 2023. The rig, housing 93 crew members, faced a severe shortage of essential supplies, endangering lives and threatening a potential disaster.

GHL was forced to act swiftly to secure emergency supplies, executing an Irrevocable Third-Party Payment Order to avoid a crisis. Despite earlier assurances from FBN that payments would be processed within three days, the bank failed to fulfill its obligations. GHL’s intervention was subsequently misrepresented by FBN as a diversion of funds.

In addressing the ongoing legal dispute, GHL referred to a December 12, 2024, ruling by Justice Ambrose L. Allagoa, which imposed a restraining order on FBN, preventing the bank from enforcing any demands under the Facility Agreement. GHL accuses FBN of attempting to circumvent this judgment by seeking an Exparte Mareva injunction without disclosing the prior court ruling.

Additionally, GHL criticized FBN's efforts to appoint an Independent Asset Manager to oversee the company's operations, labeling it an attempt to take control of the business. GHL rejected this proposal and instead suggested the establishment of a Joint Operating Committee, which FBN dismissed.

GHL reiterated its commitment to resolving the dispute through the legal process and emphasized its readiness to present evidence in court to refute FBN’s claims, aiming to clarify the facts surrounding the alleged financial misconduct..

Court Adjourns Ruling on Mareva Injunction Dispute Between First Bank Nigeria and GHL

 

By Freshgist

A Lagos High Court has adjourned for a ruling in a Mareva injunction case involving First Bank Nigeria (FBN), FBNQuest Limited, and General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL). 

The case, which has attracted significant legal attention, centers on the validity of the injunction granted to the plaintiffs by Justice Dipeolu.

During the proceedings on January 17, Dr. Abiodun Layonu SAN, representing General Hydrocarbons Limited, presented an application to set aside the Mareva injunction and other related ex parte orders. 

Layonu argued that the plaintiffs had failed to disclose critical information to the court, specifically a judgment by Justice Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court, which had prohibited FBN from enforcing security on GHL’s assets, including an oil block, during ongoing arbitration proceedings.

Layonu claimed that the plaintiffs had misled the court by suggesting that a judgment sum had already been awarded in their favor when, in fact, no such award had been made. 

He emphasized that the appropriate procedure for the plaintiffs would have been to initiate a writ, as the case was still being contested in arbitration. Layonu also criticized the plaintiffs for failing to demonstrate how an oil block could be dissipated or moved.

Mr. Olumide Aju SAN, representing the second to fifth defendants—Nduka Obaigbena, Efe Obaigbena, Eka Obaigbena, and GHL 121 Limited—also weighed in, arguing that his clients should not have been included in the case. Aju contended that the defendants had no involvement in the contract between FBN and GHL, and he called the inclusion of his clients a case of forum shopping and an abuse of the judicial process.

Aju further addressed the issue of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), asserting that no fraud had been established against his clients, and that the plaintiffs had failed to present any evidence of asset dissipation or fund diversion. He requested that the Mareva order be lifted and that the case against his clients be struck out.

Meanwhile, Mr. Abiodun Anibaba, representing the sixth and seventh defendants, argued that his clients had no connection to the matter and questioned why they had been dragged into the case. 

He also raised the issue that the plaintiffs had failed to provide an undertaking for damages before the Mareva order was granted, which he claimed was a requirement under the law.

The judge, after hearing the submissions, adjourned the case to deliver a ruling at a later date.