News
Sultan of Sokoto Unveils 10.2km Dual Carriageway Project in Bayelsa
BY Milcah Tanimu
In a significant development for Bayelsa State, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, presided over the inauguration of phase two of the newly-completed Glory Drive dual carriageway. This 10.2-kilometer road project, masterminded by the administration of Governor Douye Diri, is a noteworthy achievement.
Stretching from Igbogene through multiple communities to its termination point at Onopa in the Yenagoa city center, this road project was originally conceived by former President Goodluck Jonathan during his tenure as the state’s governor.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Sultan expressed his pride in being associated with Governor Diri’s commendable efforts in developing Bayelsa State. He emphasized the importance of leaders from different regions coming together to appreciate and collaborate on state development, highlighting the nation’s strength in its diversity.
The Sultan, whose visit to Bayelsa marked his second in 22 years, urged Governor Diri and his team to continue their commitment to improving the lives of the state’s residents.
In response, Senator Douye Diri reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to non-partisan development. He stressed that the Glory Drive project benefits all citizens, irrespective of their political affiliations, emphasizing that development and peace are intrinsically linked.
Governor Diri noted that this project was initially conceptualized during the tenure of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, under whom he served as a commissioner. Upon assuming office in 2020, he decided to re-award the contract to the Chinese construction giant, CCECC.
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Moses Teibowei, revealed that the project was executed at a cost of N30 billion. It was originally conceived during the Jonathan administration and was constructed from the East-West road to the Igbogene roundabout. However, it faced mismanagement under the Chief Timipre Sylva administration, leading to a contract re-award under Governor Diri’s leadership.
The road boasts a dual carriageway with a width of 7.3 meters for each drive lane, accompanied by two-meter-wide shoulders on both sides. It also includes a four-meter-wide median, 1.4-meter-wide walkways on each side, a major roundabout, and 12 culverts.
Governor Diri has approved the commencement of the Glory Drive Phase 3, extending from the airport road to Onopa and the Government House.
Before the inauguration, the Sultan visited the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, where he emphasized the importance of close collaboration between state governments and traditional rulers in fostering development.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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