Meet Ibok-Ete Ibas: The Veteran Naval Officer Tasked with Restoring Peace in Rivers State

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd)

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd), a former Chief of Naval Staff, has been appointed as the administrator of Rivers State following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the region.  

In a national address on Tuesday, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months. This decision comes amid ongoing political crises in the state, with Ibas stepping in to restore stability.  

A Distinguished Career in Service

Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas is a highly decorated naval officer with over four decades of service to Nigeria. He served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) from July 13, 2015, to January 29, 2021, and later as Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana.  

Educational Background

Ibas began his education at Nko Primary School and completed it at Big Qua Primary School in 1971. He attended Hope Waddell Training Institute from 1972 to 1976 and later the School of Basic Studies in Ogoja between 1977 and 1979. In 1979, he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 26th Regular Course, commissioning as a Sub-Lieutenant on January 1, 1983.  

His professional military training includes courses at INS Venduruthy in India, the 301 Primary Flying Training School in Kaduna, the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, and the National Defence College in Islamabad, Pakistan. He also holds a master’s degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad.  

A Stellar Naval Career

Throughout his career, Ibas held numerous key positions in the Nigerian Navy. Early on, he served on vessels such as NNS Ruwan Yaro, NNS Obuma, and NNS Aradu. He later became the executive officer of NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe between 1993 and 1996.  

His leadership roles included commanding officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School, commanding officer of the Forward Operating Base Ibaka, Naval provost marshal, principal staff officer to the CNS, command operations officer at Western Naval Command, commander of the Naval Air Base in Ojo, chief staff officer at Naval Training Command, chief of administration at Naval Headquarters, Navy secretary, flag officer commanding Western Naval Command, chief of logistics, and group managing director/CEO of Nigerian Navy Holdings Limited.  

Appointed Chief of Naval Staff by former President Muhammadu Buhari on July 13, 2015, Ibas concluded his military career in 2021 and was subsequently appointed as Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana.  

Awards and Recognitions

Ibas has been honored with numerous awards for his service, including the Silver Jubilee Medal, ECOMOG Medal, Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, and the General Service Star. In October 2022, former President Buhari conferred on him the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).  

Professional Affiliations and Personal Life

Ibas is a member of professional organizations such as the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and the Nigerian Institute of Management. He is married to Theresa Ibas, and they have three children. His personal interests include reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.  

A New Role in Rivers State

With his vast experience and proven leadership, Ibas is expected to bring stability and order to Rivers State during his six-month tenure as administrator. His appointment underscores the federal government’s commitment to resolving the state’s political challenges and restoring peace. 

(BUSINESS DAY)

Federal Judge Halts Trump’s Transgender Military Ban, Citing Constitutional Violations

 By: Manaoh Kikekon 

US Military personnel used to illustrate the story

In a landmark decision on Tuesday, a federal judge delivered a significant blow to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial policy banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. 

The ruling, which cited violations of the Fifth Amendment, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle over LGBTQ+ rights in the armed forces.

Shortly after taking office, President Trump signed an executive order authorizing the expulsion of thousands of transgender service members. The policy was framed as part of his broader effort to combat what he termed “radical gender ideology” at the federal level. However, the move sparked immediate backlash, with several service members filing lawsuits. They argued that the ban constituted illegal discrimination and violated their constitutional right to equal protection under the law.

On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a scathing rebuke of the Trump administration’s policy, calling it “derogatory” and unconstitutional. In her ruling, Judge Reyes granted an injunction, allowing transgender troops to continue serving in the military. 

“The ban, at its core, employs derogatory language to target a vulnerable group, violating the Fifth Amendment,” Judge Reyes stated in her written decision. She emphasized that the Trump administration failed to provide any legal or factual justification for the policy, adding, “The law does not require the court to rubber-stamp illogical judgments based on conjecture.”

The government had argued that courts should defer to military judgment on matters pertaining to the armed forces. However, Judge Reyes firmly rejected this stance, asserting that such deference does not extend to policies that are discriminatory and lack a rational basis.

This ruling represents a critical victory for transgender service members and advocates of LGBTQ+ rights. It also underscores the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional protections against discriminatory practices. As the legal battle continues, the injunction ensures that transgender troops can serve openly and without fear of dismissal at least for now.

The decision has reignited debates over equality, military readiness, and the role of the executive branch in shaping policy. For the approximately 4,200 transgender service members affected by the ban, the ruling offers a temporary reprieve and a glimmer of hope in their fight for equal treatment.

As the case progresses, all eyes will remain on the courts to see whether this injunction will stand and what it means for the future of transgender rights in the U.S. military. For now, Judge Reyes’ ruling serves as a powerful reminder that no group should be targeted or excluded based on who they are. 

MBGB 2025: Why Ladies Should Raise the Bar - Eritomi Joel

By: Manoah kikekon 

Eritomi Joel 

Eritomi Joel, the 2nd runner-up and the best-behaved model at the Most Beautiful Girl in Badagry 2025 (MBGB), has called on ladies to raise their bar of good behaviour as she shares how she emerged as the best-behaved model.

In an interview with News Peddlers correspondent, she said despite the fact that good behaviour is good, it's not easy to practice it takes dedication and determination.

In Eritomi's words, "Have you ever noticed how good behaviour can completely transform your life and relationships? It's like a superpower that earns you respect, builds confidence, and attracts positivity.

But, let's get real. Behaving well isn't always easy. There are days when you feel like throwing tantrums, days when you want to give up, and days when you just want to eat an entire pizza by yourself (no judgement, though!).

Despite the challenges, good behavior is worth it. In this piece, we'll explore the importance of good behavior, its benefits, and some practical tips to help you raise the bar.

Benefits of Good Behaviour: Good behaviour is like a magnet that attracts all things good. Here are just a few benefits: When you behave well, you earn respect from others. It's like having a superpower that makes people take you seriously. Good behavior boosts your confidence. You feel more self-assured, empowered, and prepared to take on the world.

Behaving well fosters positive relationships. You attract people who appreciate your kindness, empathy, and compassion.

I'd like to share a personal experience that illustrates the power of good behavior. I was once a contestant in the "Most Beautiful Girl in Badagry" pageantry. Throughout the competition, I made a conscious effort to exhibit good behaviour towards my colleagues, despite the challenges I faced.

Some of my colleagues and even a few organisers would try to frustrate me and get under my skin. But I refused to let their negativity bring me down. Instead, I focused on being my best self and making myself proud.

I believe that life shows us how we want to be treated, and it's up to us to treat others with kindness and respect. As a quiet person, I've learnt that tone and manner of speaking really matter. If someone speaks to me in a disrespectful tone, I simply remain calm, quiet, and composed, looking at them as if they're not speaking to me.

My good behaviour didn't go unnoticed. I was awarded the "Best Behaved Model" of the pageantry, which was an incredible feeling.

Tips for Good Behaviour:

Now that we've covered the benefits, here are some practical tips to help you behave well:

Practice Self-Awareness: Understand your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Take time to reflect on your values, strengths, and weaknesses.

Establish healthy boundaries to maintain positive relationships and prioritise your needs. Treat others with kindness, empathy, and compassion. Practice active listening, ask open-ended questions, and show genuine interest in others.

Good behaviour is a choice, ladies. It's a choice to raise the bar, to earn respect, and to attract positivity. Remember, behaving well isn't about being perfect; it's about being authentic, empathetic, and compassionate. So, go ahead and make the choice to behave well. Your relationships, confidence, and overall well-being will thank you

My day Dream By: Joel Eritomi

By:  Joel Eritomi 

Joel Eritomi 

Lost in thought, my mind begins to wander to a place of vibrant colors and endless possibilities. I find myself daydreaming of a world where I am the architect of my own destiny, crafting a life that is authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling.

In this world, I imagine myself waking up each morning with a sense of purpose and direction. I see myself cultivating healthier habits, such as meditating, journaling, and exercising, to nourish my mind, body, and soul. I envision myself surrounded by loving relationships, built on mutual respect, trust, and open communication.

As I daydream, I see myself pursuing my passions with reckless abandon, unencumbered by fear, doubt, or uncertainty. I imagine myself learning new skills, exploring new interests, and pushing beyond my comfort zone to discover new strengths and talents. I envision myself making a positive impact on the world, using my gifts and abilities to uplift and inspire others.

In this world, I am free to be myself, without apology or pretension. I am free to make mistakes, to learn from them, and to grow into a wiser, more compassionate version of myself. I am free to chase my dreams, to pursue my heart's desires, and to create a life that is truly my own.

As I continue to daydream, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building within me. I feel a sense of hope and possibility, knowing that this world is not just a fantasy but a reality that I can create for myself. I am inspired to take action, to make conscious choices, and to cultivate the habits and mindset necessary to bring this vision to life.

EXCLUSIVE: Badagry resident cries out as wife and daughter remain missing after 10 years

By: Manoah Kikekon

 

Ajovi Yenukunme joy and  Ganogbe Yeyinu Abigail

It is 10 years since Ganogbe Yeyinu Abigail, disappeared with her daughter Ajovi Yenukunme Joy, 3 years on, as of 2015, when they left without traces.

Abigail and her husband Mr. Ajovi Noah, who was residing in Itoga, Badagry, Lagos State at the time she disappeared, remains missing up to this moment, as the relatives are calling on anyone who must have seen her anywhere to alert the police.

The husband, in an interview narrated the ordeal: my name is Ajovi Noah the name of my daughter is Ajovi Yenukunme Joy, Ganogbe Yeyinu Abigirl She went missing on 15 January 2016.

Ganogbe Yeyinu Abigail 

Qust. You said totally was she missing at some point before then?

Yes, she left home on 15th January 2015 for the first time, staying with one teacher, my daughter. Before the family brought her back, she then went for another six months. The family found her again, and they called me She stayed about a week and then disappeared again, then came back in December 2015, then stayed with me at home for justice 10 days up to 15th January 2016, when I went to meet someone to discuss business by the time I came back, I discovered she had left.

Qust. Does she leave with her properties?

Yes, she left with some of her properties, her clothes, my mobile tablet that I use for work, some money in my drawer, and my daughter.

Ajovi Yenukunme Joy 

Qust: Before she disappeared, did you have any disagreements or issues?

No, just little things, as the family settled it many months before she finally left. Her family, which includes her sister, father, and aunt, settled it for us like 8 months ago, which was just a minor thing. Whenever she takes her daughter to school, she will stay there until the daughter closes, and when I asked her what’s between her and the teacher of my daughter, she didn’t say.

Qust: Why does she have to leave to stay with the teacher of your daughter?

The issue was just what I told you; it all started when I began to question the relationship between her and my daughter's teacher. Whenever I travel and my family comes around, they won’t see her by the time I call her.

Qust: When she eventually disappeared, what were the steps you took?

I went to the family to inform them, because the first time she left she went to the family house. After informing the family, I wanted to go to the police station to make a report. I also made a publication in the newspaper that year. Some people have even told me she was with her mother in the Benin Republic. I also went there to search for my mother-in-law, but I couldn't find her or my wife. I spent so much time searching for my wife, but all the efforts were abortive.

I believe the woman charmed my wife or something she has portrayed herself to my wife as a seer who sees vision, she once told me that the woman saw some vision for her, and I told her she shouldn’t believe in that and face rather face her religion and believe in her God.

Quest: Why does it take this long before you see the reason to do this report?

We were all hoping that we were still going to see her; her family was also assuring me that we were going to find her. All we thought was probably she is with her mother since her parents were separated. We continued to search for her mother, and the family assured me that she would come one day. As I continued to wait, I told myself this is 10 years now since this woman left with my daughter. I’m kind of angry. I’m only doing this to find my daughter and let people know that my daughter is missing and why she went missing.

Qust: Do you by chance believe she could still be alive?

My prayer is for her to be alive so I can see my daughter; if I think she’s not alive, then I can’t find my daughter.

Qust: What exactly do you want now, What are you expecting?

All I want is for people to help me locate this woman so I can see my daughter again.

Speaking with Ganogbe Noah the father of Ganogbe Yeyinu Abigirl.

Qust: When was the last time you saw your daughter?

Going to 10 years ago, we could not find her. We went to the police station. We searched everywhere We thought we would be able to find her somewhere but unfortunately, until this moment.

Qust: What can you say must have happened if she was missing?

He and the husband have a misunderstanding, but we have settled it for them; even on that day we had a little celebration with them, and we believe that has been settled. Suddenly I heard again that she had taken the child and left the house. Don’t know where she went. The husband reported and explained all that happened; till now we can’t find her.

Qust: Did the husband tell you if there was an argument between them before she left?

No argument between them that I know about; after the one I told you was settled, I still went there and I found out that they were peaceful, which I was happy about.

Suddenly her husband informed me about her disappearance and since then we have been hoping to see her. Up to this moment, we can’t find her.

Qust: Do you try to reach out to her through the phone?

Yes we did on various occasions but it wasn’t going through, When I happened to like that, the husband tried to make sure we found her; some were even thinking I was the one that gave my daughter another husband, or probably I know about it, It almost led to an issue between me and the husband but my conscience is free since I know nothing about her disappearance.

There was a teacher of her daughter who we already brought to the police station when she initially had some issues with her husband, and the police have said my daughter and the teacher shouldn’t have anything to do together again, which was before she disappeared, and after she disappeared, the teacher remains the suspect, but we can’t go to her again since we already resolved at the police station that we won’t have another to do with her again.

What I can say is that anyone who knows this lady or the child should report to the nearest police station and contact us.

If found call Ajovi Noah on: 08034375303

Indian, African Industries in Ogun State: a Silent Invasion, Exploitation, and Enslavement: Petitioner to DSS

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Mr. Sudhakar Rao Partnaik security manager 

Olumayowa Akogun-Abudu, a military veteran and a former security officer at African Industry (African Fertilisers), has written a petition calling the attention of Department of State Service (DSS) and the Nigerian government to the atrocities of the company, which include illegal migration, tax evasion, money laundering, and sexual assault on staff.

This copy of the petition made available to News Peddlers on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, reads:

A spectre looms over the African industries. A cunning parasite masquerading as an expert, the Indian immigrant has infiltrated our economic landscape with an insidious agenda: the exploitation of our resources, the erosion of our sovereignty, and the enslavement of our people.

A cross-section of Mr. Sudhakar Rao Partnaik addressing African Fertilizers security officers.

Under the veneer of expertise and benevolence, this colonial-esque onslaught has unleashed havoc on our society, perpetuating a cycle of injustice, inequity, and oppression. This is a rallying cry for every Nigerian and especially the offices concerned to be alerted to their responsibilities about the possible violation and disregard for the Federal Government Immigration Laws and many other nefarious illegalities being perpetrated by some unscrupulous saboteurs within the ranks and files of African Industries Group, Agbara, Ogun State, to include but not limited to Messrs. Shaji Ashokan, Sudhakar Rao Patnaik, among others, whose activities require immediate investigation.

The time has come to shatter the silence and sound the alarm bells! A deafening silence has descended upon our land, allowing these wolves in sheep’s clothing to ravage the fabrics of our nation without consequences. Hence, we must arise, speak out, and reclaim what is rightfully ours.

The alleged immigration violations of the company under reference needed to be studied, as Sudhakar Rao Patnaik, has continue to serve and operate as the security manager of African Industries Group, Agbara, Ogun State which act is an affront to the rule of law in Nigeria especially the Nigeria Immigration Act of 2015 which stipulates that non-Nigerians, including Indians, are not allowed to engage in certain restricted occupations, including security managers, and the continued appointment and service of Sudhakar Rao Patnaik as the security manager of African Industries Group, Agbara, Ogun State is a direct affront and a blatant disregard for the sovereignty of our country. The use of visiting visas to evade proper documentation and regulation of foreign workers is a matter that must not be taken with a kid’s glove.

Furthermore, reports of sexual abuse and exploitation of female workers by these foreign expatriates’ call for urgent attention, as these heinous acts not only violate the fundamental human rights of the victims but also betray the trust and good faith of the Nigerian people. It is an outrage that such exploitation can be carried out with impunity and that those who challenge it are met with retaliation and dismissal. We believe that this blatant violation of our laws and disregard for human dignity demands a swift and decisive response from the DSS.

Mr. Shaji Ashokan HR African industries Agbara

Adding insult to injury, the Indian company engages in tax evasion. Despite deducting tax from the already meagre salaries of its Nigerian workers, the company has continually failed to consistently remit this tax to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as required by the law. This blatant disregard for the tax laws of the country is yet another demonstration of the company’s contempt for our sovereignty and our laws.

It is of grave concern that African Industry Group has established several subsidiary companies in Nigeria, to include but not limited to:

1. Capital Cold Rolling Steel Mill LTD

2. APC, African Power Company

3. African Wire and Allied Limited

4. African Wire and Allied Limited 2

5. Silicate African Fertilizer and Chemical LTD

6. West Africa Steel Processing and Export Company

7. African Hydro Chemical Limited

8. Elite Glass Limited

9. African Float Glass

However, it is observed that some of these companies are not fully registered with the relevant statutory bodies and agencies, despite being operational. This situation creates potential legal issues, as unregistered companies may not have the necessary legal protections and may be subject to penalties for non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Given the number of unregistered companies under the African Industry Group's umbrella, it is possible that the group is engaged in illegal activities, such as tax evasion, money laundering, or other fraudulent practices.

The DSS should "beam their eagle search" on the African Industry Group, investigating the potential violations of Nigerian laws and regulations to ensure that the group is not engaging in criminal activities and to protect the Nigerian people from any potential harm.

In addition to the issues surrounding the unregistered companies of the African Industry Group, there is cause for concern regarding the employment of Mr. Sudhakar Rao Partnaik as Security Manager at the African Fertilizers division in Agbara, Nigeria. Mr. Partnaik, an Indian national, is believed to have entered the country on a tourist visa, despite having taken up a sensitive security position with the African Industry Group. This raises questions about the legality of his appointment, as well as the true nature and purpose of his activities within the company. Moreover, there have been allegations of Mr. Partnaik's involvement in activities that appear to be in violation of Nigerian laws and standards of conduct. Specifically, he has allegedly used his position to abuse and assault Nigerians, rather than handing them over to the Nigerian police as would be the appropriate course of action in such circumstances.

These honest violations, combined with the potential fraud and illegal activities surrounding the African Industry Group's unregistered companies, warrant an immediate investigation by the DSS.

The safety and security of the Nigerian people must be a top priority, and the DSS should take swift and decisive action to uncover any wrongdoing and hold those responsible accountable. The situation at African Fertilizers is even more disturbing when considering the following concerns: The company is employing illegal immigrants, aided by Mr. Shaji Ashokan, the human resource manager.

African fertilisers are believed to be evading tax payments, thus depriving the Nigerian government of much-needed revenue.

Nigerians working at African Fertilizers have allegedly been subjected to unfair and exploitative labor conditions, with wages that are far below the current minimum wage, thus undermining their dignity and quality of life. Beneath the façade of these so-called “experts” lurked the predatory instincts of rabid vultures. Female workers, already ensnared in the web of this exploitative enterprise, became easy prey for the depraved hunger of these Indian immigrants.

The gruesome rituals of sexual exploitation, a harrowing ordeal inflicted on these unsuspecting women, had become commonplace in this toxic workplace. But the moment a brave soul dared to resist, to stand against the tidal wave of oppression, she was met with a chilling fate. Her cries for justice, her desperate pleas for mercy, fell on deaf ears. Instead, the oppressive regime of the Indian immigrant struck with swift and brutal retribution, reducing her to nothing more than another casualty in their unending crusade of subjugation.

Dismissal, the ceremonial purge of insubordination, became a common refrain for those who dared to stand against tyranny and the tyrants. The message was clear: Submit or suffer. But little did they know that the embers of resistance were burning brighter than ever before.

To this end, it is increasingly becoming irksome on our psyche as we can no longer sleep with our two eyes closed. Like lambs to the slaughter, workers were being picked off one by one, dismissed without cause, without mercy. The brutal efficiency of this purge left no room for appeals or explanations. The Indian immigrants operated with clinical precision of well-oiled machinery, grinding the hopes and aspirations of the workers beneath the weight of their power. And as the survivors watched in terror, their fear palpable in the cold air, they knew their time was numbered. The injustices inflicted upon our people, the inequality fuelled by foreign domination, the systemic oppression that threatens to stifle our collective voice-these are affronts to the very core of our being as a nation.

In conclusion, the time for action is now! The concerned authorities must act swiftly and decisively to address these egregious violations of the Nigerian law. The use of improper visas, sexual abuse of workers, and tax evasion are all acts that must be condemned in the strongest terms.

We demand that the company be held accountable for its actions and that justice be served for the victims of its crimes. A clear message must be passed that Nigeria will not tolerate any attempts to subvert our laws or violate the human rights of our citizens. 

On phone conversation with News Peddlers Sudhakar Rao Patnaik, who initially confirmed to be the security manager, he later denied that and also refused to say anything further about the petition.

All attempts to reach Mr. Shaji Ashokan, the human resource manager, were not successful as the time this report was made.