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ASABA : Ezenei Residents Lament Prolonged Blackout, Demand Urgent Action from BEDC

ASABA – Residents of the COBO-1 Transformer area in Ezenei, Asaba, have raised concerns over the continued power outage in their community, calling on the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and the Delta State Government to urgently restore electricity supply to the area.

The residents alleged that they have been without electricity for nearly two months following the collapse of power infrastructure caused by a recent rainstorm accompanied by strong winds that damaged several electricity poles within the community.

According to community members, the damaged poles were promptly reported to the BEDC office in Ezenei with the expectation of a swift response. However, they expressed disappointment that despite repeated complaints and follow-up visits, electricity has yet to be restored.

Residents further disclosed that although replacement poles have since been erected, BEDC officials are yet to reconnect the transmission wires needed to restore power to homes and businesses served by the COBO-1 Transformer.

They questioned the delay, asking how much longer it would take the electricity distribution company to complete the reconnection process and return the community to the national grid.

Some residents also alleged that officials of the company had advised the community to purchase replacement electric poles to facilitate repairs, a request they rejected on the grounds that maintaining and replacing damaged infrastructure falls within the responsibilities of the distribution company.

The community recalled a similar experience about two years ago when the transformer developed a major fault, leaving residents in darkness for almost a year. According to them, the prolonged outage was eventually resolved only after residents contributed funds to repair the transformer themselves following what they described as delays in intervention by the electricity provider.
They further alleged that after the repairs were completed, certain unauthorized demands were made before reconnection could be carried out, a situation they said was eventually addressed through the intervention of a BEDC Regional Manager.

Expressing frustration over what they described as a recurring pattern of neglect, residents said the current blackout has severely affected businesses, households, and economic activities within the area.

We have endured months of hardship due to the lack of electricity. Small businesses are suffering, families are struggling, and daily life has become increasingly difficult. We appeal to BEDC and the Delta State Government to intervene and ensure that power is restored without further delay, a resident said.
The affected residents have therefore appealed to the management of BEDC, particularly the Regional Manager, as well as the Delta State Government, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the delay and ensure the immediate restoration of electricity to the COBO-1 Transformer area.

They stressed that reliable electricity remains critical to economic development, security, and the overall well-being of residents, urging authorities to treat the matter as a priority.

OBOREVWORI’S ENDORSEMENT OF TINUBU FOR 2027 SPARKS REACTIONS AMONG DELSU STUDENTS

By Ighorue Deborah Ufuoma

ABRAKA, Delta State — Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general election has generated discussions among students of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, with many expressing differing opinions on the political development.

Governor Oborevwori publicly declared his support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid during an interaction with journalists in Asaba.

The governor said continuity in the Federal Government’s policies would further strengthen development efforts in Delta State, noting that increased federal allocations had enhanced the state’s ability to execute infrastructure projects and meet other development obligations.

The endorsement has since attracted reactions from political stakeholders and interest groups across Delta State, with analysts describing it as one of the early political developments likely to shape alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

At DELSU, however, students who spoke with this reporter said their primary concern is not political endorsements but the impact government policies will have on education, infrastructure and employment opportunities.

A Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive, who requested anonymity, said students would judge the endorsement by its impact on the university community.

“We hear about political alignments every election season, but what matters to students is improved hostel facilities, stable electricity, conducive lecture halls and a better learning environment.
If the partnership between the state and federal governments brings more investment to education, then students will benefit,” the student said.

Also speaking, President Sheikh, a 200-level student of the Department of Mass Communication and Film, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, expressed optimism that stronger cooperation between the state and Federal Government could translate into more opportunities for young people.

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated commitment to development in Delta State.

If that relationship with the Federal Government continues, students could benefit through improved infrastructure, scholarship opportunities and programmes that promote youth employment,” he said.

Another student, Ajiroghene Precious, also of the Department of Mass Communication and Film, urged students to assess political endorsements based on the outcomes they produce.

“Political endorsements are part of the democratic process. What is important is whether they result in policies that improve education, reduce the cost of schooling and create employment opportunities for graduates. Ultimately, citizens will judge leaders by their performance,” Precious said.

Some other students who spoke to this reporter said they would prefer to see greater attention given to issues affecting higher education, including hostel accommodation, research funding, campus security and graduate employment, regardless of political affiliations.

Political observers say issues such as economic reforms, infrastructure development, education, youth empowerment and job creation are expected to feature prominently in campaigns ahead of the 2027 general election, with students and young voters likely to play a significant role.

As discussions continue across the DELSU campus, many students say they will closely monitor how government policies and budgetary allocations affect the education sector in the coming months.

The views expressed by the students interviewed represent their personal opinions and do not reflect the official position of Delta State University.

Olejeme Unveils Plan to Mobilise 2.5 Million Igbo Women for Tinubu, Oborevwori Ahead of 2027

By Guide Express News

ASABA, DELTA STATE – The National Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers (TTB), Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, has intensified grassroots mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections, unveiling plans to mobilise more than 2.5 million Igbo women across the South-East and South-South regions in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

Dr. Olejeme made the announcement on Saturday in Asaba during a major women’s political summit attended by thousands of participants from the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones.

The summit focused on voter mobilisation, women’s political participation, leadership development and strategies for strengthening grassroots support for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Olejeme commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, APC National Women Leader, Dr. Mary Alile-Idele, and Delta State First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for their commitment to promoting women’s participation in governance and national development.

She urged women across Delta State and beyond to support President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, stating that continuity in leadership would consolidate ongoing reforms and accelerate development.

“Today, Igbo women are standing up for Tinubu. We are standing up for Oborevwori,” she declared.

According to Olejeme, the Tinubu Torch Bearers have embarked on a renewed grassroots campaign aimed at carrying the message of hope, inclusion and political participation to women across communities.

She announced that the organisation would deploy one million trained women mobilisers across 95 local government areas in the South-East and South-South.

“Our mission is to take this message to markets, churches, campuses and communities. Our message is simple: Tinubu represent positive reforms, while Oborevwori represents meaningful development,” she said.
She maintained that sustained support for the APC would promote infrastructure development, economic growth, women’s empowerment, youth opportunities and improved democratic dividends.

A major highlight of the summit was the endorsement of President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, former Delta State Governor and senatorial hopeful Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and Barrister Bridget Anyafulu for elective positions in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the event, the South-South Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers, Dr. Genevieve Mordi, said the organisation was entering a more structured phase of grassroots mobilisation.

She noted that women remain the largest voting bloc and possess the capacity to influence electoral outcomes when properly mobilised.

“We are organising ward by ward, market by market, campus by campus and polling unit by polling unit. More than two million women will speak with one voice in support of Tinubu and Oborevwori,” she said.

The Delta State Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers, Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude, Ph.D., urged members to remain united and committed to ensuring electoral success for APC candidates.

Other speakers, including the Vice Chairman of Oshimi 6th South Local Government Area, Hon. Nkechi Amaregbu, and Mrs. Chinwe Okolo, encouraged eligible Nigerians to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Former PDP State Women Leader, Hon. Kawulia Omoko, Duchess Nerissa Olisa-Ifeajika, Mrs. Ifeoma Onuorah, and Mrs. Edith Umeh also stressed the importance of active voter participation while commending initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and empowerment of women.

The APC State Treasurer, Ogbueshi Ayaka Oniawa, expressed confidence that the party’s policies and programmes would continue to deliver positive outcomes for Nigerians.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Olejeme called for unity and sustained commitment among members of the movement.

“Let no one divide us and let no one use us. APC is the party that works. When Delta works, Igbo businesses prosper. When Nigeria works, our children succeed. Igbo women are awake, organised and ready,” she said.

Political observers described the summit as a significant milestone in Dr. Ngozi Olejeme’s expanding grassroots mobilisation drive among Igbo women and Nigerian women in general, noting that the initiative could play a key role in strengthening women’s political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.

A former Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and former Board Chairman of Trustfund Pensions Plc, Dr. Olejeme is widely recognised for her contributions to public service, women empowerment and grassroots political mobilisation.

The summit concluded with renewed calls for unity, voter education, increased political participation and sustained democratic engagement as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

2027: Growing Calls for Engr. Isaac Eshor to Join Delta Governorship Race

By Guide Express News

ASABA, DELTA STATE – As political discussions ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Delta State continue to gain momentum, the name of renowned maritime engineer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community development advocate, Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, is increasingly being mentioned among individuals considered capable of providing purposeful leadership for the state.

A native of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Engr. Eshor has earned recognition over the years for his contributions to engineering, business development, youth empowerment and humanitarian service.

Widely respected in both professional and community circles, he has built a reputation as a leader committed to creating opportunities, supporting vulnerable groups and promoting sustainable development through practical interventions.

As a seasoned Maritime Engineer, entrepreneur and International Ambassador to Intercap Nigeria, Eshor has contributed to economic growth through job creation, mentorship and support for initiatives aimed at empowering young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Political analysts and community stakeholders believe that his blend of technical expertise, business experience and grassroots engagement has positioned him as one of the emerging voices in conversations about the future leadership of Delta State.

Focus Foundation’s Impact Across Communities

Central to Engr. Eshor’s humanitarian efforts is the Focus Foundation, a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving lives and supporting community development initiatives.

Through the foundation, numerous intervention programmes have been implemented to address healthcare, education, youth empowerment and welfare challenges affecting underserved communities.

One of the foundation’s most celebrated healthcare initiatives is the sponsorship of free fibroid surgeries for women who could not afford medical treatment.

The programme has provided relief to many beneficiaries and offered renewed hope to families facing health-related challenges.

Empowering Youth Through Skills Development

The foundation has also invested significantly in youth empowerment through free vocational training, entrepreneurship development and skills acquisition programmes.

Many beneficiaries have received practical training designed to promote self-reliance, improve employability and reduce unemployment among young people.

These efforts have been widely praised by community leaders as meaningful contributions towards economic empowerment and social stability.

Supporting Education and the Elderly

In the education sector, the Focus Foundation has supported pupils and students through the distribution of school bags, educational materials and learning resources to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The initiative has encouraged school attendance and improved access to basic learning materials for many families.

The elderly have also benefited from periodic welfare programmes, relief materials and support packages aimed at easing economic hardship and improving their quality of life.

A Vision Built on Service

Speaking on leadership and governance, Engr. Eshor has consistently maintained that public service should focus on improving the welfare of citizens and creating opportunities that benefit all segments of society.

According to him, meaningful leadership should translate into better infrastructure, quality healthcare, improved education, economic empowerment and effective representation for the people.

As conversations surrounding the 2027 governorship election continue to evolve, supporters argue that Engr. Isaac Eshor’s record in engineering, entrepreneurship and philanthropy reflects the qualities required to drive sustainable development across Delta State.

For many, his years of service, community engagement and commitment to improving lives represent a foundation upon which a broader vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Delta State could be built.

 

Oborevwori Approves Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road, Ebu Community Seeks Reconstruction of Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road

By Guide Express

EBU, DELTA STATE – Residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have welcomed the approval of the construction of the Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road by the Delta State Executive Council, describing the project as a major step towards addressing the community’s longstanding infrastructure challenges.

The road project, approved by the State Executive Council under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, stretches from the Royal Palace to Ebu Grammar School. Residents said the project is expected to improve mobility within the community and provide easier access to key public institutions.

Community leaders noted that the approval has renewed hope among residents after years of inadequate road infrastructure, which they said has negatively affected economic, educational and social activities in the agrarian community.

Speaking on the development, a resident, Mrs. Mary Odile, expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori and the Delta State Government for approving the project.
She said the road would ease transportation, improve access to schools and other public facilities, and stimulate economic activities within the community.

While commending the government for the intervention, residents appealed to the Delta State Government to also prioritise the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road, describing it as the community’s most pressing infrastructure need.

According to them, the Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road serves as the major access route connecting Ebu with neighbouring communities and markets but has remained in a deteriorating condition for several years, making movement difficult, particularly during the rainy season.

They added that reconstructing the road would improve the transportation of agricultural produce, restore commercial activities and strengthen links between Ebu and surrounding communities.

Residents expressed optimism that the approval of the Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road signals the beginning of broader government attention to infrastructure development in Ebu Community.

On behalf of the traditional ruler, palace chiefs, elders, youths and Ebu indigenes at home and in the diaspora, the community expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and members of the Delta State Executive Council for approving the project.

The residents also expressed hope that more infrastructure projects would be extended to the community under the administration’s MORE Agenda to promote inclusive development across Delta State.

Ebu Road Collapse Cuts Off Delta Community, Residents Demand Urgent Government Intervention

By Guide Express News

The Ebu road collapse has left residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State virtually cut off from neighbouring communities, leaving the agrarian community virtually cut off from neighbouring towns and disrupting commercial and agricultural activities.

The situation has worsened following the collapse of a critical section of the federal road, forcing motorists to abandon the route as heavy-duty trucks and other vehicles can no longer navigate the muddy and damaged roadway.

Eyewitnesses at the scene described the road as a death trap, with a trailer overturning while attempting to navigate the failed section.

The incident further brought movement to a standstill as commuters, transport operators and residents were stranded for several hours.

Residents said the road, which serves as a vital link for transporting agricultural produce and goods to different parts of Delta State and Northern Nigeria, has deteriorated over the years despite repeated appeals for government intervention.

According to community members, the collapse has severely affected farmers who can no longer transport their produce to markets, while traders and business owners continue to suffer mounting financial losses due to rising transportation costs and restricted access.
“We have cried for years for this road to be fixed, but nobody listened. Today, our community has been completely cut off. Farmers cannot move their produce, transporters are stranded, and businesses are collapsing,” a resident lamented.

The people of Ebu also accused successive governments of neglecting the community despite its significant contribution to Delta State’s agricultural sector.

They alleged that promises to rehabilitate the road have repeatedly gone unfulfilled, with government attention often limited to election periods while critical infrastructure continues to deteriorate.

Community leaders warned that if urgent reconstruction work is not carried out, the road could become entirely unusable, further isolating the community and threatening livelihoods across the area.

Residents are now appealing to the Federal Government, the Delta State Government and relevant road agencies to immediately mobilise contractors to the site and commence emergency repairs before the rainy season causes further damage.

They stressed that restoring the road would not only reconnect Ebu to neighbouring communities but also revive economic activities and ease the hardship currently faced by thousands of residents.

As of the time of filing this report, several vehicles remained stranded around the failed section of the road, while concerned residents continued to call for swift government intervention to prevent a complete humanitarian and economic crisis.

#EbuRoadCollapse #DeltaState #OshimiliNorth #RoadInfrastructure #GovernmentIntervention #Farmers #BreakingNews #Nigeria #GuideExpress

FG Introduces Risk-Based NYSC Deployment to Enhance Corps Members Safety

FG Introduces Risk-Based NYSC Deployment to Enhance Corps Members Safet

The Federal Government has approved a new risk-based deployment policy for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking a major shift in the posting of corps members across the country.

President Bola Tinubu announced that future deployments will be guided by comprehensive security risk assessments to ensure the safety and well-being of corps members while preserving the NYSC’s objective of promoting national unity.

Under the new policy, postings to states facing security challenges will take into account prevailing security conditions.

Preference will also be given to deploying indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions within affected states, and those from neighbouring states in the same geopolitical zone where necessary.

The announcement forms part of a comprehensive reform package approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to modernise the NYSC and make it more responsive to the country’s current realities.

Among the approved reforms is the extension of the NYSC orientation course from the current three weeks to six weeks.

The additional period will focus on entrepreneurship, vocational training, digital skills, civic education, and leadership development to better prepare corps members for life after service.

The Federal Government also approved the appointment of a civilian Director-General to head the scheme, alongside the introduction of technology-driven call-up and deployment processes aimed at improving transparency and efficiency.

In addition, corps members’ primary assignments will be aligned more closely with their academic qualifications and career aspirations, while orientation camps will be evaluated under a national grading and certification framework to improve service delivery.

President Tinubu directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to commence the amendment of the NYSC Act to provide the necessary legal backing for the reforms.

The reforms are expected to strengthen the NYSC scheme, improve the safety of participants, and equip Nigerian graduates with practical skills that will enhance their employability and contribution to national development.

Source: Presidency/Vanguard

FEC Approves Sweeping NYSC Reforms, Introduces Six-Week Orientation, Civilian Leadership and New Uniform.

Abuja – The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a comprehensive reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the first holistic review of the Scheme since its establishment in 1973.

The approval, granted during the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at transforming the NYSC into a skills-driven, productivity-focused and youth-empowering institution in line with the Federal Government’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.

Announcing the decision, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the reform as a landmark initiative that will preserve the NYSC’s legacy of promoting national unity while equipping young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Key reforms approved by the Council include a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment of corps members to enhance their safety, and a redesigned six-week orientation programme with greater emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and specialised career development.
The reforms also introduce skills-based primary assignments that align with corps members’ academic qualifications and career aspirations, while operational leadership of the Scheme will transition to a civilian structure, with the military retaining responsibility for security support.

In addition, orientation camps will be upgraded through a national grading and certification system, while the traditional Passing Out Parade will be replaced with a graduation ceremony.

A redesigned NYSC uniform reflecting professionalism and national pride was also approved.

According to the Minister, the reform process began in 2025 following extensive consultations involving the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Education and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination.

To ensure effective implementation, the Federal Executive Council directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, to commence amendments to the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide legal backing for the approved reforms.

The Federal Government said the reforms are designed to strengthen national unity, improve youth employability and position the NYSC as a more impactful institution for national development in the years ahead.

#NYSC #FEC #FederalGovernment #YouthDevelopment #Nigeria #SkillsDevelopment #NationalService #PresidentTinubu #Education #NewsUpdate

SENATOR PETER ONYELUKACHUKWU NWAOBOSHI: A STATESMAN REMEMBERED ON HIS POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

Today, family members, political associates, friends, and admirers pause in solemn reflection to mark the posthumous birthday of one of Delta State’s most influential political figures, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, fondly remembered as the “Oracle of Politics.” Though he departed this earthly realm on December 19, 2025, his legacy continues to resonate across the political landscape of Delta State and Nigeria.

Born on July 29, 1957, Senator Nwaoboshi’s life was a remarkable journey of service, leadership, courage, and political wisdom. His death created a vacuum that remains difficult to fill, particularly among those who benefited from his mentorship, guidance, and unwavering commitment to the development of his people.

William Shakespeare once wrote, “When beggars die, there are no comets seen; the heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.” The passing of Senator Nwaoboshi was indeed one of those moments when the heavens seemed to mourn the departure of a political prince whose influence transcended generations.

To many, he was more than a politician. He was a father figure, a mentor, a strategist, and a bridge-builder who understood the complexities of leadership and the delicate art of political negotiation. His political career was characterized by resilience, vision, and an uncommon ability to unite people across divides.

As a public servant, Senator Nwaoboshi devoted his life to the pursuit of good governance and the advancement of democratic ideals. He remained deeply committed to the welfare of his constituents and consistently championed policies aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens. His stewardship reflected a rare blend of political pragmatism and human compassion.

Beyond politics, Senator Nwaoboshi was a firm believer in empowering the next generation. Numerous political leaders, community stakeholders, and young professionals owe part of their success to his mentorship. He invested in people, nurtured talent, and created opportunities for countless individuals to grow and succeed.

A holistic appraisal of his life reveals a man who understood that leadership is not merely about holding office but about impacting lives. His enduring influence continues to shape political discourse and leadership culture within Delta State and beyond.
For those who knew him personally, his passing remains a painful reminder of life’s fleeting nature. Yet, his accomplishments, values, and contributions stand as a lasting monument that time cannot erase.

Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Judith Nwaoboshi, a respected medical consultant, his children, brothers, sisters, cousins, and a vast network of political associates and admirers whose lives he touched in countless ways.

As we commemorate his posthumous birthday, we celebrate not merely the years he lived but the impact he made. His story remains a testament to purposeful leadership, unwavering dedication, and service to humanity.
Though he has departed from the physical world, the ideals he stood for, the lives he transformed, and the legacy he built will continue to inspire future generations.
May the soul of Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, the Oracle of Politics, continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen. Nnam Oshimili.

NPF Debunks Viral Katsina Banditry Video, Says Armed Men Are Registered Vigilantes Supporting Security Operations

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that a viral video from Katsina State showed a police officer fraternizing with armed bandits.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force clarified that the individuals seen in the video are not bandits but duly recognized members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters who work alongside security agencies in ongoing operations across Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State.

According to the Police, the footage captured a routine interaction between a police officer and the community security volunteers as they moved to a designated operational area to support efforts aimed at combating criminal activities and enhancing public safety.

The Force described attempts to portray the volunteers as bandits as “false, malicious, and deliberately misleading,” warning that such misinformation has the potential to create unnecessary public anxiety, erode confidence in security institutions, and undermine ongoing security operations.

The Police further condemned the deliberate distortion of facts and urged members of the public to disregard the misleading narrative attached to the video.

The statement advised citizens to rely only on information disseminated through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorized government agencies.

The NPF also warned individuals and groups involved in the creation and spread of false information capable of threatening public peace and security to desist, noting that legal action may be taken against offenders.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Force stressed that it will continue to collaborate with legitimate community-based security stakeholders and relevant partners in the collective fight against crime across the country.

The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, on behalf of the Force Headquarters, Abuja.