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Diri Proposes Third Term for Governors to Curb Abandoned Projects

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Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has suggested a constitutional amendment to allow state governors a third term in office — a move he believes could help tackle the persistent issue of abandoned projects across Nigeria.

Governor Diri made the call during a stop in Nembe Local Government Area, part of his ongoing ‘Thank-You Tour’ across the state. Addressing a large crowd at King Koko Square in Nembe, the governor said limited time in office often prevents administrations from completing critical infrastructure projects.

“It is not proper to start a project and leave it for another government to finish,” he said. “Some of your requests can be fulfilled, but time is no longer on our side. That’s why I believe the National Assembly should consider revisiting the constitution to give governors a third term.”

He encouraged community members to reach out to their federal representatives — including Hon. Marie Ebikake, Hon. Fred Agbedi, Hon. Oforji Oboku, and Senator Benson Agadaga — to push for such an amendment.

Diri highlighted the ongoing development of a 60-megawatt independent power plant as a major step toward addressing electricity challenges in the state. He announced that twin gas-powered turbines, procured by the state government, would soon be delivered and installed at the Elebele site, which is nearing completion.

According to him, once operational, the power plant will supply electricity to key areas such as Yenagoa, Nembe, Ogbia, Kolokuma/Opokuma, Sagbama, and parts of Ekeremor, helping to reduce the state’s dependence on the national grid.

The governor also addressed the community’s call for the construction of the Igbeta–Ewoama–Okoroba road. He admitted that time was a constraint but expressed willingness to partner with federal bodies like the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the South-South Development Commission to make it happen.

Governor Diri thanked the people of Nembe for their warm reception and overwhelming support in the 2023 governorship election, which saw him and his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, re-elected.

“We promised to come back and say thank you if re-elected. This visit is to fulfill that promise,” he said.

Several dignitaries praised the governor’s efforts during the visit, including former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Attorney-General Biriyai Dambo (SAN), Nembe Council Chairman Chief David Alagoa, and PDP chieftain Chief Blessing Izagara, who all commended the progress made on the Nembe–Brass road project.

Governor Diri also paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom, King Edmund Daukoru (Mingi XIII), who expressed gratitude for the governor’s commitment to development. The monarch lauded Diri for returning to thank the people after the election, a gesture he described as rare among politicians.

“You’ve proved doubters wrong. You kept your word, and the blessings of this throne will remain with you,” the king said.

The governor’s entourage included several lawmakers, top government officials, and traditional leaders.

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Burkina Faso Shuts Down Bill Gates–Backed Mosquito Project 🚫🦟

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The military government in Burkina Faso has suspended Target Malaria, a project backed by Bill Gates’ foundation that releases genetically modified mosquitoes to fight malaria.

Authorities ordered the NGO to immediately stop all operations, saying foreign projects must align with national priorities. Civil society groups had also raised concerns, urging safer alternatives instead of controversial technology.

Target Malaria, active in Burkina Faso since 2012, said it has complied with all laws and remains open to dialogue. The first GM mosquito release happened back in 2019.

Burkina Faso is one of the world’s malaria hotspots, recording over 8 million cases last year.

This decision follows a wider crackdown: in recent months, the Traoré-led government revoked licenses of 21 foreign NGOs.

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Imo State Bans Nursery and JSS3 Graduation Parties, Restricts Frequent Textbook Changes

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The Imo State Government has announced new policies aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents and strengthening focus on academics in schools.

In a memo dated August 15, 2025, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, directed that graduation parties for nursery pupils and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) students are no longer allowed. Going forward, only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.

“The Ministry is committed to providing quality and functional education to every child in the state,” Ikegwuoha said. “Graduation ceremonies for Kindergarten, Nursery, and JSS3 are hereby abolished. The focus must remain on celebrating academic milestones at the completion of primary and secondary education cycles.”

The Commissioner also condemned the frequent change of textbooks in private and faith-based schools, describing it as an unnecessary financial strain on families. He ordered that approved textbooks must be retained for at least four years to enable siblings and other students to reuse them.

“School proprietors are hereby warned to desist from the annual change of textbooks,” Ikegwuoha stressed. “Maintaining a stable textbook list for four years will not only cut costs for parents but also create a more consistent and effective learning environment.”

According to the Ministry, these measures are part of efforts to build a more stable, affordable, and student-centered education system in Imo State.

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How I Was Arrested By My Own Men Without Them Knowing I was the Commissioner of Police – MD Abubakar

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When I was commissioner of police in Lagos State, I took my job very seriously, especially on Saturdays.
One morning, instead of waiting for my usual 10 a.m. start, I woke up at 6 a.m. for an unannounced inspection.

Driving myself, I decided to check on officers along Herbert Macaulay Road. At a checkpoint, a young constable stopped me and asked:

> “Young man, where are you going with your father’s car?”

He demanded my papers and ID. I said my name was Mohammed and asked to see his ID first — he had none. He called their sergeant, who also had no ID but insisted we head to Yaba Police Station.

At the station, parking was full except the DPO’s spot. I parked there. The constable protested but I kept quiet.

Inside, they took me to an ASP wearing shorts at work. He told me to come in. I refused, saying he couldn’t interrogate me in casual clothes. He tried pulling me in, I pulled him back. When he finally looked closely, shock covered his face.

An elderly man in the station went to check the photo wall… saw my face there… and jumped out the window to escape. Soon, whispers spread:

> “This is the CP.”

Panic broke out — the ASP in shorts also escaped through the window.

Later, I was told the DPO, ASP, and the officers were detained awaiting my orders.

What upset me wasn’t the arrest — it was the lack of discipline and professionalism:

Officers without ID cards stopping citizens.

An ASP doing official duty in casual home wear.

That day proved to me that true leadership isn’t about sitting in an office. You must go out, see things for yourself, and make sure justice and discipline are upheld at every level.

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