From Mike Tayese, Yenagoa

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, under the leadership of Acting State Chairman, George Turnah has commended the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike and the G5 members for their decisive leadership and commitment to the survival and unity of the Party as evidenced in the recent meeting convened in Abuja on Monday.

According to Bayelsa PDP, the Abuja meeting which brought together eminent leaders and concerned stakeholders of the party is a testament to the unwavering love Wike has for the PDP and his relentless fight for justice against impunity. The party in a statement signed by its publicity secretary, Derri Alasuote Wright and made available to our correspondent in Yenagoa saluted Wike’s dedication to party’s principles which it said stands him out and has endeared him strongly to all genuinely committed members of the Party nationwide.The party therefore commended Wike for always championing the cause of unity and integrity within PDP ranks. Wright declared that Bayelsa PDP endorsed all the decisions taken at the Abuja meeting.The statement read in part: “We fully endorse the resolutions reached at the meeting, and as a State Chapter, we stand by our recognition of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary of the PDP, and to state that there is no vacancy requiring any replacement whatsoever. Our party’s Constitution and the recent Supreme Court decision regarding the National Secretary issue are very clear and unambiguous in this regard.”As a State Chapter, we stand united with the rest of our eminent leaders and concerned stakeholders across the Federation in the decision to zone the Presidential ticket of our party for the upcoming 2027 elections to the Southern region. This strategic move does not just demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and fairness. It also does ensure that our party remains attuned to the voices of all Nigerians.”Bayelsa State PDP reaffirms its loyalty to the resolutions of this meeting and remains steadfast in its support for Nyesom Wike as our national leader, as well as our endorsement of Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary. Together, we will forge ahead with renewed vigour to restore the PDP to its rightful place as a beacon of hope and justice for our people and nation.”

From Dan Amasingha, Minna

Borno State government has announced the donation of the sum of N300 million to Mokwa flood victims a gesture seen as reciprocal of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago who last year donated N250 million to Maiduguri Flood disaster victims. Governor Umara Zulum announced the donation when he led a State delegation on a sympathy visit to the government house, Minna on Tuesday.

He said the donation is to complement the efforts of the Niger State government in addressing the challenges of the disaster. Zulum commiserated with the government and people of Niger State over the devastating effects of the flood that claimed many lives and destroyed property and livelihoods.He noted that it is time for all subnational governments to work collectively to mitigate the effect of climate change in society.He also enjoined the Federal Government to establish a robust mechanism that would check and address the issue.Governor Umaru Bago responding to the gesture appreciated his Borno State counterpart for the visit and donation, saying it is timely and a show of love.He observed that both States have many things in common and applauded the doggedness, proactiveness, perseverance and love of the Borno State Governor, which he said has kept him on his toes.The Governor reassured that the donation will be utilised properly, even as he said lots of advocacy is ongoing on the need for the people to stay away from coastlines to avert reoccurrence.

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

National Vice President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Archisbishop Emmah Isong, is set to lead a high-powered delegation of clergymen on a working visit to the six states in the South-South geopolitical zone. The tour will take the clergymen to Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Edo state on June 16.

PFN Zonal Secretary, Pastor Samuel Ukweni disclosed this to our correspondent in a telephone conversation which took place shortly after PFN stakeholders’ virtual meeting in Calabar yesterday. The zonal secretary stated that the tour will help to strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, and provide opportunities for fellowship among PFN members.He said that during the visit, Isong and a team of clerics will pay courtesy calls on state governors, fathers of faith, and other key stakeholders in the respective states.A letter from the office of the National Vice President, South-South Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), titled “PFN South South National Vice President Visit” asked states liaison officers to work with state chairmen and ensure the success of this visit.The letter signed by South-South Zonal Secretary Pastor Samuel Ukweni averred that all necessary arrangements for the reception of the national vice president, appointment with state governors, fathers of faith and mobilization for rally shall strictly be handled by the states.The letter admonished PFN leadership of the aforementioned six states to join hands with one another and ensure that the National VP’s official visit became a success.”Kindly adjust your state programs and personal schedules to accommodate and facilitate this important fellowship”. The letter stated.The Zonal Secretary stated that key highlights of the tour will include a two-hour prayer rally in each state, featuring up to 2-3 choirs stressing that the rallies are expected to bring together PFN pastors, executives, and members for a time of prayer, worship and fellowship.Ukweni, called on state liaison officers and chairmen to ensure the success of the visit calling for necessary arrangements, including meetings with governors stressing that mobilization for prayer rallies, will be handled by the states.