South-South women call Akpoti-Uduaghan hero

 .....Urge Senate Committee not to plunge Nigeria into tragedy

South-South women on Friday advised the leadership of the Senate and the Committee on Ethics not to plunge the country into pain and tragedy.

They also applauded the Senator representing Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her courage, boldness and contribution to nation-building.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is an hero and a source of permanent and daily inspiration in Nigeria and on the continent.”

The women in a statement in Asaba, capital of Delta State, urged the Senate Ethics Committee not to recommend decisions which have been decided by special interests.

“The Ethics Committee should identify and diagnose the crisis and its roots. We are not expecting banal and destructive recommendations on this issue.”

Entitled ‘’Alienation of Women politicians in Nigeria, fatal misunderstanding, bullying, the rule of conduct in the Senate, abuse of power and precarious authority, the women condemned the threat of illegal actions, discrimination, victimization and other forms of segregation based purely on gender.

“One of the most popular and leading labels often put on responsible and successful women by the detractors is that they are rude. That label certainly does not apply in the case of the recent incident. Even if male politicians and their female lackeys in Nigeria were to shout from the rooftops in an attempt to make the label stick, the facts of the incident will not allow it.”

The statement issued by the Chairman of South-South Women in Politics, Chief Rita Okonji urged the principal officers and members of the Senate to treat themselves like brothers and sisters and not shy away from the central contention in the recent event.

“Don’t resist the voice of honour and reason. Don’t insult the intelligence of the Nigerian woman. Don’t make your colleagues objects of ridicule in the eyes of the world for selfish interests. Don’t be too bitter against one another, no matter the differences.”

Specifically, the women called for complete change in attitude and drastic reorganization of thinking habits as well as in the relationship between male and female politicians in the country.

“Our dignity and survival are seriously being jeopardized through conscious and deliberate actions by the male politicians in the country. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent action is very healthy and provides the beginning for a genuine change in male’s attitude to women in the country. We hope that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s action will accelerate the efforts to achieve strong voice and respect for women.”

They urged male politicians in the country to dedicate themselves to the precepts and practice of democracy.

“Another matter relating to the state of our nation today which we have to be vigilant about is the moves to shut women out of the system. The dangerous aspect of this is the country’s drift into becoming a government of only men.”

The statement while emphasizing compromises and persuasions urged bootlickers of a divisive and evil system to move away from attitudes and appearances detrimental to women’s progress in the country.

“How can we be led to believe that individuals full of self-hatred and contempt for women in Nigeria can suddenly become defenders of our interests?  The male politicians in the country lack any substantive reasons to give for the recent incident. They simply beat about the bush with meaningless phrases.”

The women reaffirmed that they will support Akpoti-Uduaghan and other female politicians in whatever difficulties they may face in the country.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a good woman, and an upright and virtuous patriot. We bear malice or ill will to none and our reaction is solely in support of gender understanding and human love.”

 

No rift between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan - South-South leaders

 ***Call Senate President Moral leader 

 

***Laud Kogi Central Senator for her intelligence, self-control, strong voice

 

South-South leaders on Sunday lauded the cordial relationship existing between the President of the Senate, Chief Godswill Akpabio and the Senator Representing Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

 

“We know that the Senate President does not have anything against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, contrary to the insinuation of political mercenaries.”

 

They also chastised some individuals and groups for introducing dangerous dimensions to the recent development in the Senate.

 

“We consider it very irresponsible and most uncharitable for some individuals and groups to mischievously try to set Akpoti-Uduaghan against the leadership of the Senate for expressing her views.”

 

Rising from a meeting on Sunday in Calabar, the South-South leaders disproved sexual harassment and sidelining rumours, describing them as ‘’wicked and malicious’’

 

“These smear campaigns are attempts to tarnish the image of the distinguished senators and put the popular, bright and unflappable Akpoti-Uduaghan at logger-heads with the leadership of the Senate.”

 

A statement by the National Chairman of the South-South Front, Chief John Harry shortly after the meeting applauded Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan for working for the progress of the country.

 

“There is a general misunderstanding. The unwarranted attack being launched on Akpabio and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan amounts to an assault on our collective sensibilities.”

 

Harry said the leaders took cognizance of the pleasant disposition of the Senate President, his inclusive strategy and the peaceful atmosphere he has been able to create in the Senate.

 

"No amount of allegations and criticisms hurled at the distinguished senators can erode their contributions to the development of the country."

 

The notable leaders called on all South-South and North Central people and indeed Nigerians to show solidarity and support for the Senate President and the member representing Kogi Central in the Senate.

 

“The Kogi Central Senator is dedicated and fearless. There is no amount of blackmail, name-calling or intimidation from fictitious groups that could change the course of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s destiny.”

How Chief Ikpor Showered Love On Wife, in A Grand Celebration of Devotion

... As Lolo Tessy Oko-Ikpor Harps on Family Ties

 

By Bon Peters

The eve of the January 26, 2025 is still fresh in the minds of the attendees as the serene ambiance of Osborn La Palm Royal Resort in Port Harcourt transformed into a hub of joy and celebration as  Chief Dr Anthony Oko Ikpor hosted a grand birthday party in honor of his beloved wife, Lolo Chinenye Theresa Oko-Ikpor in what some friends and associates see as a show of love and devotion to someone that really deserves such.

The event was described as a testament of love, devotion, and family values, drawing dignitaries, friends, and family members who gathered to celebrate the remarkable woman at the center of it all.

It was one singular occasion that highlights the essence of sharing love, commitment and affection and in essence rekindling of family ties which most people believe has reduced, due to challenges and financial burden in most of the families.

But for Chief Dr Anthony Ikpor, he went extra mile to make sure that the lavish venue was adorned with elegance, reflecting the warmth and grace of the celebrant.

Ranging from beautifully arranged floral designs to the impeccable lighting that set the mood, every detail was thoughtfully curated to ensure an unforgettable evening as guests were welcomed with a touch of class and hospitality that underscored chief, Oko Ikpor family's commitment to excellence.

However, in the heart of the festivities, Lolo Chinenye Theresa OKO-Ikpor stood radiant, surrounded by loved ones who danced to the admixture of old  school music and the modern.

Speaking in  an exclusive interview with newsmen, she shared her profound joy and gratitude for her husband's thoughtful gesture.

Her words: "Anthony has always been my rock, and this celebration reaffirms the strength of his love. His care for me and his family is undeniable, and I pray that God continues to grant him health and long life to enjoy the fruits of his labor," she said, her voice filled with emotion.

Explaining, further on the new trend where family love is fast eroding away and some families share Love only on a Valintine's Day, Lolo Tessy Ikpor took the opportunity to inspire women with her heartfelt message.

Hear her: "To every woman out there, I urge you to stand by your husband. Be true to yourself and remain steadfast through life's ups and downs."

Adding, "Marriage is a partnership, and together, you can conquer anything." She admonished.

"Today, is more than birthday celebration but a day to renew our family tie and unflinching love for each other”

More so, the evening was filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt moments.

The atmosphere was electrifying as guests mingled, danced, and shared in the couple's joy.

The highlight of the night was a surprise tribute from Chief Anthony Ikpor, who expressed his deep admiration for his wife and thanked her for her unwavering support and love. He prayed that God will grant her more fruitful years ahead with good health.

As the event drew to a close, Lolo Ikpor expressed her appreciation to everyone who attended. "I am truly overwhelmed by the love and kindness shown me today.

Thank you for making this day so special and for being a part of our joy."

The birthday celebration was more than just a party—it was a testament to the enduring bond between  Chief Dr Anthony Oko Ikpor and Lolo Chinenye Tessy Oko-Ikpor, a reminder of the beauty of love, and an inspiration to all who attended. It was, indeed, a night to remember.

As the lights dimmed and the guests departed, one thing remained clear: the love story of Dr and Lolo Anthony Ikpor is one for the ages—a beacon of hope and resilience in a world that sometimes forgets the true essence of devotion.

High point of the occasion was the cutting of the birthday cake.

In attendance were members of Government Secondary School Afikpo Old Boys Association PH branch, Afikpo Youth Leadership Forum (AYLF), Committee 30 Friends of Port Harcourt, Afikpo Committee of Friends (ACOF), Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Eco and other Rotary club members in Port Harcourt, management and staff of Sterling Bank among others

Bukuma Crude Oil Spill and Gas Fire Incident: NOSDRA DG and Stakeholders Initiate Remedial Actions

The Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, along with a specialized team of NOSDRA personnel and collaborative stakeholders, conducted a comprehensive site assessment in Zion City, Agum, a community in the Bukuma Island of Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

 

This initiative aims to evaluate the ramifications of a recent hydrocarbon spill and formulate an effective response strategy to mitigate the environmental impact.

 

The incident, reported on January 1, 2025, involved a gas leak from  the  NNPC  OML Well 8, operated

by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). Following the incident report, NOSDRA, as the principal agency overseeing oil spill incidents in Nigeria, convened a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) to the site on January 6, 2025. The JIV aimed to ascertain the causal factors surrounding the incident and recommend necessary regulatory compliance measures to mitigate its impact. The investigation team included key stakeholders such as NNPCL, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, and community representatives.

 

During the investigation, the team identified several environmental concerns, including illegal hoses connected to the well-head, gas emissions, and signs of stress in the mangrove vegetation in the immediate vicinity. The team directed NNPCL to undertake immediate actions, including the repair of the affected well-head and the implementation of continuous surveillance of operational areas to prevent future incidents.

 

On January 17, Engr. Woke led a team of NOSDRA specialists along the New Calabar River to further evaluate the extent of the spill and engage with community members. They consulted personnel from TANTITA Security Services, responsible for safeguarding the oil infrastructure, who provided insights into the incident's onset prior to the subsequent fire outbreak. Mr. Eugene from TANTITA indicated that the spill was likely instigated by the actions of suspected pipeline vandals attempting to illegally tap into the well-head.

 

Following the JIV, NNPCL mobilized contractors for well intervention and oil spill recovery operations

at the incident location. However, on January 12, NOSDRA received reports of a fire outbreak at the well-head, attributed to excessive gas release. The agency is actively coordinating with relevant stakeholders and the operator to extinguish the fire and mitigate its effects on the community by facilitating the provision of relief materials.

 

Engr. Woke emphasized NOSDRA's commitment to thoroughly analyzing the collected data and collaborating with pertinent agencies to bring the situation under control. The agency is dedicated to ensuring the welfare of the affected communities and will work with relevant stakeholders to provide necessary relief.

 

 

A Call to Accountability: Emeka Woke Condemns Fubara’s Unfortunate Remarks against his benefactor and Leadership Missteps

In an alarming display of political naivety, the recent comments made by Governor Sir Siminilayi Fubara at the launch of projects in Ahoada and Etche have ignited outrage among the citizens of Rivers State. Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), did not hold back in his rebuke, reminding the governor of the allies who paved his way to power.

 

"To publicly denigrate those who stood by you is not just shortsighted; it's a betrayal," Woke declared. "The Governor's remarks reveal a troubling pattern of vindictiveness disguised as governance."

 

Woke specifically expressed concern over Fubara's cancellation of contracts with those he labels as "enemies," despite their proven competence. "What message does that send?" he asked. "To cancel projects not based on performance, but on petty political squabbles, is a dangerous precedent and egregious executive impunity at its worst."

 

He pointedly criticized the Governor's dismissal of vital infrastructure projects by mocking a road constructed in Omuma Local Government Area, labeling it a “Farm Road that leads to nowhere.” "This kind of rhetoric is unbecoming for a Chief Executive," Woke countered. "How can you belittle essential infrastructure that connects farmers to markets, while simultaneously promising new contracts for road projects to aid transportation? This is hypocrisy draped in ignorance."

 

Moreover, Woke took issue with Fubara's recent jabs at Nigerian youths who leverage social media as a platform for engagement. By referring to a young man as a "Data boy" simply for voicing concerns about poor road quality and project delivery, the Governor has illustrated a profound disconnect from the evolving societal landscape. "Labeling a young citizen attempting to hold you accountable reveals an alarming lack of respect for the voices of the next generation. Rather than dismissing their contributions, our leaders should listen, engage, and learn from them."

 

Continuing his critique, Woke addressed Fubara's lack of respect for his predecessor, Chief Barrister Nyesom Wike. "To ridicule Wike's work, especially when it provides substantial benefits to the community, is not just factually incorrect but disingenuous. If anything, it shows a failure to acknowledge the foundations laid before you. Your promise of new infrastructure rings hollow when you mock the existing projects that enhance the lives of Rivers people."  To even give a thought of not executing any project in Wike's community, if he were a bad person, speaks volumes of the governor's insidious nature that should be worrisome to the public, particularly those who barely know him. We were all deceived by his pretentious disposition while he served as the Account General of the state, having been promoted above his contemporaries by Wike.

 

Offering advice to the Governor, Woke emphasized, “It’s clear that maturity in leadership requires more than a title. Understanding the weight of your decisions is crucial; only through prudent governance can you truly represent the people’s interests.”

 

Woke went on to suggest that, instead of sidelining past allies, Fubara should aspire to unite the state by fostering collaboration and learning from the experiences of those who came before him. “The people are looking to their leaders for integrity and wisdom. A wise leader knows that enduring relationships and mutual respect are vital for effective governance.”

 

In a poignant conclusion, Woke stated, “We sympathize with the Governor for being thrust into leadership under less-than-ideal circumstances. However, he must realize that leadership is not merely about filling shoes but understanding the nuances of governance. A wise adage reminds us: it is only when a child washes his hands well that he is fit to dine with elders. The Governor must take stock of the speed bumps on his journey.

 

Rivers Ports: Eastern Ports Positioned For Increased Investment, as Dantsoho Tours Onne

In continuation of his resolve to galvanize port concessionaires and terminal operators into increasing their In-Country investments in Port infrastructure equipment, the Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho on Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th December, 2024 undertook an operational and investment campaign tour of Onne and Rivers Port Complexes.

This visit which is coming on the heels of his tour of Lagos Ports of Apapa and TinCan earlier on 27th November, 2024 signposts the current administration's readiness to deepen Nigeria's competitiveness in vessel and cargo traffic to match the needs of Nigeria's huge population of over 200 million inhabitants.

The tour covered BRAWAL Oil Services Ltd, Onne Multipurpose Terminal, INTELS, INDORAMA,West African Container Terminal (WACT), NOTORE, and the terminals at Rivers Port Complex Port Harcourt

Speaking in the course of the tour, Dantsoho stressed that "with the quantum of investments, our maritime neighbours especially along the West & Central African Coast are attracting, we can only stay competitive if we redouble our investment drive in order to provide requisite infrastructure and equipment to attract the sizes of vessels that scale up our cargo throughput to adequately serve our huge population".

His words, "as far as this Management is concerned we have the mandate of the Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola to create the enablers for increased investment, and we are poised to do just that".

Continuing, he added, "let me seize this moment to reiterate my earlier plea to investors to take maximum advantage of the investor-friendliness of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to infuse greater Investment and be assured of guaranteed return on investment".

The NPA helmsman who was recently elected as the first ever Nigerian President of the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa (PMAWCA) concluded the tour by stating that "the reality of Nigerian Ports processing Two Million Containers of cargo to service a population of over Two Hundred Million is an anomaly that has to be urgently addressed through deployment of huge investments."

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Onne Port Complex Manager, Mr Abdulrahmon Hussain said," on

behalf of the Management and staff of Onne Port Complex (family Port), we warmly welcome our indefatigable Managing Director and his Management team to Onne Port Complex."

He emphasized that both the Management and staff of Onne Port Complex were happy to receive and host the MD, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho whom he praised for his due diligence, commitment and hard work, strong passion for efficient service delivery, as well as his desire and determination to actualize the Federal Government Directive, on the Ease of Doing Business, for a more customer friendly business environment in and around the Port even as he added the MD' visit would have a positive impact on Onne Port Management which would lead to improved efficiency and effective service delivery to their customers.

He however, insisted that it is worthy to note that the Management policies are yielding progress in Onne Port Complex, as could be seen in the following areas suh as port infrastructure, Quay Apron, Road, Call up system, internal and external stakeholders engagement, security and corporate social responsibility among others.

The Port Manager also stated that despite, the progress recorded more needed to be done in the area of perimeter fencing of the vast swamps (creeks) and Lands, rehabilitation of Road networks at Onne, purchase of more Tug Boats, more supply of Diesel for bunkering of NPA crafts and Lubricants.

Others include, biffing up of the manpower strength and the construction of state of the art, fire service stations to fight oil fires at FOT and FLT.

He however thanked the Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho and his management team for taking their time to visit the ports even as he pledged his unwavering adherence to the policies of the MD and his team to achieve more revenue for the nation.

In the same vein, while speaking at the West African Container Terminal WACT, the General Manager, government and public Relations Mr Innocent Ogbuji, who welcomed the Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho on behalf of WACT expressed satisfaction in his visit insisting that the cordial relationship that has existed between his organization and NPA would continue even as he expressed WACT desire for more investments at Onne.

Present, at the event include, top brass, of NPA management team, the Customs Area Controller, Onne customs command Area11, Port Harcourt, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, the Commissioner of Police Eastern Ports Mr Moshood Jimoh, various trade unions at the ports, maritime stakeholders among others.


Credit: Bon Peters

Ogoni Congress Moves to Resolve Decades of Conflicts over Oil in Ogoni

The Ogoni people have adopted a new orientation geared towards peace and development within the locality, charting a path to a permanent resolution of over three decades of conflicts with the government and Shell over oil production and underdevelopment.

 

This follows resolutions taken at an Ogoni congress held Saturday, November 30, 2024 under the aegis of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP). From speeches to interactive sessions, attendees resolved to move forward on the path of development and ledged commitment to support the leadership of MOSOP to achieve these goals.

 

Addressing the Congress, President of MOSOP, Fegalo Nsuke said it's time to permanently solve the Ogoni problem. He noted that the Ogoni people must stand up to defeat both internal and external repression. Nuke regretted Ogoni's inability to address its critical challenges of underdevelopment since the struggle was launched 34 years ago.

 

According to him, "We launched the struggle in 1990. We are thirty four years into it and the problem

was that we were protesting underdevelopment. For thirty four years, we have been unable to address this problem."

 

He expressed dismay over the growing number of splinter groups in Ogoni, attributing it to the commercialization of the struggle which he says had been “very costly in lives and assets invested and lost in the process."

 

"The reason you see all these splinter groups is that we have left the primary goal of the struggle and have started chasing money and our pockets" he said.

 

He urged the Ogoni people to be ready and committed to resolve the problem permanently noting that the Tinubu, being a listening president, provides a rare opportunity to permanently resolve the Ogoni problems.

 

"While I am not speaking for the government, I want you to know that the current president is a listening president and offers an opportunity to resolve the problem. Let us take the advantage" He said.

 

Also speaking, former deputy president of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, MOSOP, Chief Dr Fortune Okwa Chujor urged the Ogoni people to support the development initiatives of Nsuke describing him as a non-commercial and non-political president of MOSOP.

 

A former president of the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and an elder of MOSOP, Chief Emmanuel Nkala said he stands with the MOSOP President, Fegalo Nsuke and called on Ogoni youths to do the same. Chief Nkala canvassed for unity amongst Ogonis urging the people to give the MSP development initiative a chance.

 

Ogoni youth president, Theophilus Mbagha Esq, in his contributions urged the Nigeria authorities to dialogue with the Ogoni people to resolve the Ogoni problem. He also backed the Nsuke-led initiative as acceptable to Ogoni youths.

 

Spokesperson for the Federation of Ogoni Women's Association (FOWA) Lady Immaculate Kpopie assured the Congress of the support of the Ogoni women for the development drive led by Nsuke. Congress then resolved and mandated the MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke to initiate and conclude discussions on the issue and to win a fair share of Ogoni Ogoni resources which will be committed to Ogoni development.

 

At the end of deliberations, Congress resolved as follows:

 

1. Congress passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of MOSOP led by Fegalo Nsuke and declared willingness of the Ogoni people to work with that leadership.

 

2. Congress resolved that the leadership of MOSOP led by Fegalo Nsuke should negotiate 20 percent interest for the Ogoni people in natural resource extraction in Ogoni.

 

3. Congress demanded compensation for livelihood losses due to decades of oil pollution.

 

4. Congress resolved to set up a resolution committee bringing everybody including dissenting voices together.

 

5. Congress resolved that the leadership of MOOP should set up a conflict resolution committee to address inter and intra communal conflicts in Ogoni.

 

Signed:

 

Alex Akori

Secretary-General,

MOSOP

November 30, 2024.

 

Below are images from the Congress held November 30, 2024

Nigeria's greatest stars gather in Lagos as National Unity Festival begins

 

December 13-14, the National Theatre will play host to high ranking personalities. The country's commercial nerve centre is expected to have a rendezvous with history.

 

"The National Theatre of Nigeria Annual Festival of Unity will begin on Friday, December 13, 2024 in Lagos" a statement by the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr Yunusa Mohammed said.

 

The statement issued in Lagos on Friday said the National Theatre had proved itself a force for the promotion of unity in diversity.

 

"The National Theatre Annual Festival is to foster better understanding among the people with a view to evolving improved unity in the country"

 

The statement said rebranding boundless opportunities: a new era of unity and inclusivity, which is the theme of the annual event, had "become the dominant reality of our age."

 

Top government functionaries in Nigeria, business moguls and members of the diplomatic community will look forward to the cultural parade representing Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups on Friday, December 13, 2024.

 

Tagged NATFU 2024, this year's festival, according to the Chairman of the Planning Committee, promises to be the most spectacular.

 

"It will feature exciting performances and special appearances by theatre heavyweights. Industry stakeholders from theatre, music, film and art sectors will discuss how cultural rebranding can drive inclusivity, economic growth and innovation"

 

The statement listed short film screening and roundtable aimed at solving pressing societal issues, driving positive change in Nigeria and growing young people.

 

It also listed a live concert featuring an array of emerging and established artists from around the world as a key programme.

 

"All eyes will be in the direction of Nigeria's greatest stars and young performers as they showcase their talents in music, spoken word, dance and theatre."

ANLCA 2024 Election: I Will Restore ANLCA Onne Chapter to Its Past Glory - Chief C C Okafor

 By Bon Peters
 
 

Chief CC Okafor has vowed he will restore ANLCA to its past glory if elected as the chapter Chairman of ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter.
 
 
Making this declaration in Port Harcourt the Rivers state capital Wednesday while addressing some select journalists, during his declaration to contest for the Chairmanship post, Okafor said the time is now to take ANLCA Area11, Onne to its former glory wondering why those  in the executive of ANLCA who are contesting the Chairmanship position  will  be talking of "transformation, transformation".
 
 
He said "you're talking of transformation in the executive you're in, for almost four years, why not transform now. But because you want to contest   you are saying transformation, transformation. Those of you talking about transforming ANLCA, are still the people leading us till today."
 
 
He described himself as the most qualified to steer the ship of ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter having worked with the likes of Chief Ernest Elochukwu, the former National president, as welfare officer, worked with the incumbent  ANLCA,National President Mr Emenike Nwokeoji as Treasurer .
 
 
Continuing, he noted that he was once the Presidential liaison officer Eastern Zone during the time of Prince Olayiwola Shittu.
 
He added, during Mr. Kingsley Offor's tenure, "I was the vice chairman for two terms and also in charge of transportation."
 
 
 "I was equally the Advisory and Reconciliatory Committee Chairman during the same regime in which we recovered some containers to importers.
The records are there to speak for themselves.”
 
 
"And all the assignments given to me by Mr Kingsley Offor were carried to the later. We were transporting our members from Eleme Junction to Onne and we were taking care of our elders " Okafor said.
 
 
Piqued by what he described as rot in ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter at the moment, Okafor said he will  work with Nigeria Customs Service, other government agencies and every stakeholder at the Port to ensure  seamless business operations at Onne.
 
 
His words “I will engage Customs and every other government agency at the Port to ensure you do your business without much problem. A situation whereby once you have Bill of laden, your heart will cut and temperature will rise must stop. But you must do the right thing. You must be compliant and adhere to Customs  import and export procedures"
 
 
"I am coming on a rescue mission, am not desperate to be ANLCA chairman but desperate to see the system work again" Okafor insisted.
 
 
When asked why he stepped down during the last election Chief CC Okafor,  (Anaegbuachalla na Awka), the Managing Director and CEO of Atlantic System Agencies licensed in 1996, said what happened during the last election was a rape of democracy.
 
 
"I didn't step down on my own, I was forced to do that." I was supposed to be the chairman of Onne Chapter of ANLCA but they came with their obnoxious and unconstitutional harmonization and used it to push me out. I didn't renege my aspiration to serve my people but was asked to step down"
 
 
He added, "such will never happen again especially with the incumbent National president, Mr Emenike Nwokeoji who has created an enabling environment for transparent elections in ANLCA."  
 
 
"If you say you're popular, come out and test your popularity, and it is a mark of incivility to keep quiet in the face of bad things happening at ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter, we will confront every challenge through dialogue and negotiation and ANLCA will be put back on a sound footing and the Association will be taken back to what it used to be. We will revive and review our insurance policy and Carter for the welfare of our elders in ANLCA"
 
 
Speaking further, Okafor who described himself as the "Hard Truth" emphasized that members should be wary of some of those aspiring to lead them but have Bonded Terminals.
 
 
"I don't have Bonded Terminal and do not intend to have one in the future, we should vote people who cannot be unduly influenced by the regulatory bodies at the Port because of their business interest but people who will secure your business and our collective interest and aspirations.We must come out indivisibly to fight and protect our profession"
he reiterated.
 
 
Speaking to our correspondent, Chief Ekene Oyeoka, who said he is  the chairman Association of Anambra Freight Forwarders and Managing Director and CEO of Sealand Nig Ltd, described Chief Okafor  as somebody with capacity to lead and accessible. He insisted that his integrity is second to none and also humble.
 
 
He added that his aspiration was in order as according to him, Okafor is a leader per excellence who will take ANLCA to its rightful place.