A controversial social trend has continued to spark heated debate in Rivers State. Young women, particularly students, requesting transport fare from men and then failing to show up for arranged meetings.The controversy gained wider attention after Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, described the act as fraudulent and punishable under the law in a viral video.

Interviews with some female students revealed different reasons for the practice. While some admitted using it to discourage persistent suitors or punish married men seeking affairs, others linked it to financial pressures or unavoidable changes in schedule.

Amaka Johnson, a 200-level student of Mass Communication at Rivers State University, explained that she often resorts to the method to discourage men she is not interested in. “When I don’t have feelings for a guy and he keeps disturbing me, I ask him for transport fare. Once he sends it, I don’t show up. After doing it two or three times, he gets the message and leaves me alone,” she said.

Joy Emmanuel, a 300-level Sociology student at the University of Port Harcourt, noted that some girls see it as a way to discourage married men. “A lot of girls collect money because the man is married. Refusing to show up makes him lose interest. For me, it’s a way of sending a signal that his attention is not wanted,” she explained.

For others, financial challenges are the main motivation. Sarah Kalu, a 100-level student of Economics at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, openly admitted she collects transport fare without intending to meet up. “I have used their money to settle one or two school needs. I can’t visit them. Since some married men cannot stick to their God-given wives, I don’t feel guilty collecting from them without showing up,” she said.

Not all cases, however, are deliberate. Blessing Nwoko, a 200-level Law student at the University of Port Harcourt, stressed that sometimes genuine circumstances prevent visits. “Not showing up might not always be intentional. You may have a sudden test or another urgent issue in school that makes it impossible to keep the appointment,” she explained.

Some young men interviewed expressed deep frustration with the trend, describing it as exploitative. Daniel Briggs, a final-year Engineering student at Rivers State University, recalled his experience. “I worked hard to get money and sent it to a girl for transport. She didn’t come. It was my first attempt at meeting her, and I felt betrayed. The truth is she will one day go through the same stress I went through to get that money,” he lamented.

Another student, Chukwuemeka Obi from the Department of Political Science, University of Port Harcourt, described it as a sign of immaturity. “Only mature people stick to commitments. Collecting money and refusing to honor an agreement is a sign of immaturity and lack of values,” he said.

A sociologist, Dr. Larry-Love Effiong traced the trend to larger economic and social problems. According to him, the practice reflects deeper issues in society. “Parents have a role to play. They should guide their grown children to act responsibly. The truth is that the social system itself has failed. Hunger, high cost of living, and limited opportunities are pushing young people to seek alternatives, even if they compromise moral standards,” he said. He added that the erosion of values in society has normalized behavior once considered unacceptable. “When survival becomes the focus, morals often give way. That is what we are witnessing,” he added.

The “transport fare and no show” phenomenon continues to divide public opinion. While some justify it as self-defense against unwanted advances or a coping strategy in difficult economic times, others insist it is nothing short of deception. As the debate rages on, the issue raises broader questions about morality, relationships, and the state of society in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.

The post Debate Rages as Women Collect Transport Money Without Showing Up. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

A recent market survey across Port Harcourt has revealed a significant drop in the prices of staple food items, bringing relief to traders and consumers who have endured months of skyrocketing costs. Our correspondent, who visited major markets such as Mile 1, Mile 3, Slaughter, Crick Road, and Rumuokoro, observed noticeable reductions in the prices of rice, beans, garri, and other essentials.

According to traders, the decline follows a recent stabilization in supply chains and increased local harvest. For instance, a 50kg bag of foreign rice that sold for ₦94,000 now goes for ₦80,000, while local rice has dropped from ₦64,000 to ₦50,000. Similarly, the price of a bag of beans has fallen from ₦150,000 to ₦105,000, while garri now sells for ₦55,000–₦60,000, down from ₦90,000.

Mrs. Elizabeth Ukaegbu, a trader at Mile 3 Market, confirmed the price drop:

“Company rice was formerly sold at ₦95,000, now it is ₦80,000. Local rice with sand was ₦65,000 but now it is ₦50,000. Iron white beans used to be ₦150,000 but now goes for ₦105,000. Even brown beans, which was as high as ₦200,000, is now ₦110,000.”

Other foodstuff also recorded reductions. A bag of crayfish, which sold for ₦150,000 two months ago, now goes for ₦120,000, while a custard measure has dropped from ₦15,000 to ₦10,000. Onion prices have also seen a sharp decline, moving from ₦50,000–₦70,000 per bag to ₦25,000–₦30,000.

At Rumuokoro Market, a palm oil seller, Mr. Chidi Ebere, noted:

“Palm oil we bought at ₦65,000 is now ₦60,000. Groundnut oil has also reduced from ₦70,000 to ₦58,000. Customers are beginning to return because the prices are more encouraging now.”

Consumers, too, expressed relief at the trend. A resident, Mrs. Florence Nwankwo, told our reporter:

“Last month, I could not afford beans because the price was too high. But now with the reduction, I can at least buy some for my family. I just hope it will last and not go up again.”

To provide expert insight, our reporter spoke with Dr. Samuel Okafor, a market analyst and lecturer in Economics at the University of Port Harcourt. He attributed the drop in food prices to seasonal factors and short-term improvements in local supply.

“What we are witnessing now is largely the effect of the harvest season, particularly for staples like rice, beans, and garri. Increased local availability has pushed prices down. However, the reduction may not be permanent. Unless the government addresses inflation, transportation costs, and foreign exchange instability, we may see prices rise again in a few months,” Dr. Okafor explained.

He added that while the reduction is a welcome relief, long-term food affordability can only be guaranteed if the government invests more in agriculture, storage facilities, and rural infrastructure.

For now, both traders and buyers across Port Harcourt markets are breathing a sigh of relief as food becomes a little more affordable.

The post Relief for Households as Food Prices Fall in Port Harcourt. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As newly inaugurated Local Government Chairmen in Rivers State settle into office, leading voices in law and policy have urged them to focus on the real needs of their communities rather than pursuing personal glory. The call comes amid rising expectations from citizens who believe grassroots governance should directly reflect the aspirations of the people.

In an exclusive interview, Port Harcourt-based lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Achinike William Wobodo, emphasized that the very first responsibility of the new council leaders should be a comprehensive needs assessment within their constituencies. According to him, effective governance begins with understanding what matters most to the people.

“Local Government chairmen should not jump into the fray of trying to outshine one another without evaluating the real needs of the people. The first thing they should do within the first 30 days is to go round the communities, consult widely, and document the actual needs of each ward and community. They are managing the people’s funds, and therefore, must work in line with the people’s priorities,” Wobodo advised.

Beyond infrastructure, Wobodo stressed the importance of healing political divisions among youths, noting that local governments have a strategic role to play in uniting Rivers people through inclusive programs.

“They should see how they can bring Rivers youths together. Our polity has created a lot of division among young people. Council chairmen should promote initiatives that harmonize the youths, including sporting events, community festivals, and dialogue platforms that foster reconciliation and brotherhood.”

Adding his voice, a policy and governance expert, Dr. Elechi Wabara, highlighted the need for strengthening human capacity at the grassroots. Wabara, a lecturer in the Department of Employment Relations and Human Resources Management at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, underscored that the essence of local governance is closeness to the people.

“Local government is the closest arm of government to the people. Therefore, chairmen must be intentional in their engagement, ensuring that their policies and projects are people-centered. Building the human mind and developing competent individuals is as important as providing infrastructure. A community is only as strong as its people,” Dr. Wabara said.

He further raised concerns about rising youth unemployment, which he attributed to lack of employable skills. According to him, local governments must prioritize skills acquisition and professional training for graduates and young school leavers.

“Our people need to be meaningfully engaged. Extra efforts and funding should be committed to providing training that equips our youths to be competent and employable. When you build people, you build the nation,” Wabara emphasized.

The dual calls from Wobodo and Wabara reflect a growing consensus that grassroots development must go beyond physical projects to include human development, unity, and empowerment. For many Rivers citizens, the performance of these newly sworn-in chairmen will be judged not only by the roads and buildings they put up but also by how effectively they heal divisions, empower young people, and give true meaning to local governance.

The post Experts Task Newly Sworn-in Rivers LG Chairmen on Community Needs, Unity, and Youth Empowerment. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The recent decision by the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) to reintroduce the monthly sanitation exercise has stirred a wave of mixed reactions among legal practitioners, activists, and residents.

RIWAMA Chairman, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, recently announced that beginning this month, sanitation will hold from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. every last Saturday, with restrictions placed on both human and vehicular movement. The directive, however, has drawn sharp criticism from some lawyers who argue that it infringes on citizens’ rights.

Legal practitioner Chizi Ehi faulted the agency’s directive, insisting that both the High Court and the Court of Appeal have ruled against such restrictions. He questioned RIWAMA’s authority to issue movement passes even to essential workers.

“An issue of sanitation exercise ought not to be restricted. You can’t restrict people’s movement. Apart from the fact that there is no law permitting such, there are also judicial interpretations forbidding it. The High Court has given judgment, which was upheld by the Court of Appeal. So, what is the justification for restricting people’s movement?”

Similarly, another lawyer, Nnamzi Ekulo, described the directive as unconstitutional and unlawful, citing past judgments of the Federal High Court. He reminded RIWAMA of Justice Omotosho’s ruling in Barrister Prince Azubuike vs. Attorney General of Rivers State, RIWAMA, and Commissioner of Police, which declared the restriction of movement for sanitation purposes as illegal.

“The RIWAMA Act 2014 cannot be superior to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Federal High Court has already ruled that such restrictions are unconstitutional. We should be guided by the law in whatever we do.”

On the other hand, environmental activist Onyekachi Okoro welcomed the reintroduction of the exercise, stressing that Rivers people must be reminded of their responsibility toward environmental cleanliness.

“It is important that people understand how vital a clean environment is. If the government has to enforce it, let them enforce it. The protection of the environment begins with individuals—from our compounds, quarters, and waste bins. I think the reintroduction of the sanitation is a welcome development.”

Okoro, however, advised RIWAMA to adopt a “human face” in enforcing the exercise. He argued against the use of plastic bags for waste disposal and instead suggested community-based enforcement, awareness campaigns, and fines for non-compliance.

“Enforcement of sanitation in households and compounds is very important. There should also be community involvement. If compounds fail to carry out sanitation, they should pay a little fine. With awareness and fair enforcement, participation will improve in subsequent exercises.”

The directive, therefore, continues to spark debate between those questioning its legality and those welcoming it as a much-needed measure to restore cleanliness in Rivers State.

The post Sanitation Directive Sparks Legal and Public Debate in Rivers State first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The outcome of the August 30 Local Government elections in Rivers State has continued to generate sharp reactions, with political parties, civil society organizations, and election observers offering conflicting assessments of the exercise. While some describe it as a sham process designed to entrench political structures, others hail it as one of the most peaceful and credible polls in recent years.

The spokesperson of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Luckyman Igila, alleged that the polls were merely a ploy by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to reclaim his political influence in the state.

“The FCT Minister has gotten back his structure through the back door. It is evident everywhere that people did not come out to vote because Rivers people do not know who is at the helm of affairs in Rivers State. Elections were conducted manually where people just picked up the booklet, thumb-printed serially, and dropped it inside. That is not an election,” Egela told our reporter.

He added that the irregularities had strengthened his party’s legal challenge.

“We are challenging the process in court. They have just given us fresh evidence that we will use to crush them in court. Even though we don’t fully trust the judiciary these days, we believe they will purge themselves and do the right thing.”

The convener of the Rivers Emancipation Movement, Zoe Tamunotonye, also dismissed the exercise, describing it as a “managed selection process.”

“The process was neither democratic nor credible. RESEC activities failed every test of transparency, fairness, and accountability. No credible voter turnout was recorded, results were stage-managed, and only pre-arranged winners were announced without details of votes cast,” Tamunotonye said.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Civil Liberty Organisation in Rivers State, Sunny Dada, warned that the election could be a rehearsal for what might happen in the 2027 general elections.

“Rivers State has become a lab where undemocratic practices are tested. If it worked here, it might be repeated nationwide in 2027. Citizens must not keep quiet. We must challenge this legally; otherwise, democracy risks being buried in this country,” he cautioned.

However, not all observers share this bleak outlook. Some Civil Society groups and independent monitors argue that the polls reflected maturity and a commitment to grassroots democracy.

The convener of the Rivers Peace Initiative, Obinna Ebogidi, praised the peaceful conduct of the election.

“The election itself was a huge win for Rivers State and its people. Despite our divisions, we have reached a point of consensus. The peaceful atmosphere shows Rivers people are committed to democracy,” he said.

Nwambu Gabriel, Director-General of the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, also commended the exercise, noting the absence of major electoral malpractices.

“There was no ballot box snatching, no thuggery, no vote buying across the 23 LGAs. For once, we saw an election conducted without violence or intimidation,” Gabriel noted, adding that the APC’s success in winning 20 chairmanship seats further demonstrated the impartiality of the electoral commission.

In the same vein, Green Isaac, Executive Director of Relief International Africa (RIA), commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RESEC) for what he described as “transparent preparation and execution.”

“From the beginning of the process to election day, RESEC showed legitimacy and transparency. Their programs and conduct reflected credibility,” Isaac maintained.

As debates rage over the credibility of the August 30 polls, one thing is clear: the Rivers State Local Government election has reopened conversations about Nigeria’s electoral integrity and the challenges facing democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The post Rivers LGA Polls Spark Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As schools reopen across Rivers State this September, many parents in Port Harcourt say the thought of resumption is no longer a source of joy but of worry. They describe the rising costs of school fees, uniforms, and textbooks as overwhelming, adding that the burden could be eased if schools allowed siblings to reuse textbooks.

Mrs. Gold Wobo, a trader at Mile 3 Market, expressed concern over what she called an “unfair school pattern” that forces parents to buy new books each term.

“Growing up, our younger ones used our textbooks, but today that is no longer an option. I am not happy with the attitude of school owners. They are making life more difficult, especially in this harsh economy,” she lamented.

Mr. Obinna Okpara, a laundry operator in Rumurolumeni, shared the same frustration.

“As school is about to resume, my heart is skipping. I am worried about how to cope this term. School owners don’t allow younger siblings to use textbooks from their elder ones. It is bad. They should understand that people are struggling to survive,” he said.

For civil servants, the pressure is even more intense. Mrs. Justina Jaja, a mother of four and a government worker, explained that many of her colleagues resort to bank loans to meet up with school expenses.

“If you want to put your child in a good school, you are looking at above ₦200,000. With four kids in secondary school, you spend over ₦800,000. The problem is worse because textbooks cannot be reused. Most parents, especially civil servants, end up borrowing money just to cope,” she explained.

The parents appealed to the Rivers State Government to step in by enacting a policy that would allow textbook reuse, citing Imo State as an example where such a system is already in place.

“Government needs to intervene to help parents. Imo State has already implemented this policy, and parents there are relieved. Rivers State should also take that step so parents can breathe easier,” one parent urged.

Another parent added: “When our governor, Sim, comes back, that is one area he should focus on. Let Rivers State ban this one-term-one-book-per-child system. It will go a long way in reducing the burden on parents.”

The post Parents Lament Rising School Costs, Call for Textbook Reuse Policy in Rivers State first appeared on National Ambassador News.

Organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), the exercise commenced in the morning with materials and officials deployed to various polling units. Security agencies, including the police and other sister organizations, were heavily mobilized to maintain order and prevent disruptions.

Our reporter monitored voting in parts of Port Harcourt and observed an encouraging turnout. At Township School, Churchill Road, Ward 5, voters arrived steadily. At Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borokiri, Ward 2, residents patiently queued to cast their ballots under the watchful eyes of party agents and observers. Similarly, at Town Hall Rumurlumini, Ward 9, more voters joined as the day progressed, with election officials attending to them in an orderly manner.

While many polling units saw active participation, some recorded modest turnout. In several neighborhoods, residents engaged in leisure activities such as football rather than voting. Those who opted out cited disenchantment with the electoral process or a perceived lack of impact from previous local administrations.

Despite these challenges, the elections were largely peaceful. Party agents and civil society observers monitored the process, and election officials carried out accreditation and voting efficiently. Minor delays occurred in a few units due to the late arrival of materials and staff, but they did not affect the overall conduct of the polls.

Security presence remained visible across major flashpoints, with patrol vehicles and personnel ensuring a calm environment. No major incidents of violence were reported.

As at the time of filing this report, results were still being collated, with RSIEC expected to make official announcements in the coming hours.

The post Rivers State Holds Local Government Elections Under Tight Security first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As Abia State marks its 34th anniversary of creation, residents of Rivers State have showered encomiums on Governor Alex Otti for what they describe as his bold and transformative leadership that has repositioned Abia as one of the fastest-rising states in the Southeast.

Speaking in Port Harcourt, several Rivers indigenes said Abia State under Governor Otti has witnessed a visible turnaround, especially in areas of environmental sanitation, civil service reforms, infrastructure renewal, and financial transparency.

Mr. Chinedu Ibe, a business owner in Diobu, noted that Abia, which was once derided as a “dumping ground” due to its perennial waste management problems, has now taken a new look under the Otti administration.

“Anybody who visited Aba before and now will agree with me that Abia has truly changed. Governor Otti has cleaned up the streets, introduced new waste disposal systems, and restored dignity to the environment. Meanwhile, here in Rivers, a state once called the ‘Garden City,’ our streets are littered with refuse. Abia is now setting the pace for others to follow,” he said.

Another respondent, Mrs. Joy Amadi, a civil servant based in Port Harcourt, commended Governor Otti’s ongoing civil service verification exercise which, she said, has exposed thousands of ghost workers.

“The Abia governor has taken the bull by the horn. For years, ghost workers have drained the state’s resources, but with his reforms, money is now being saved and redirected to development. Even other governors are learning from him. That’s the kind of leadership Nigeria needs,” she stated.

Similarly, a youth leader, Mr. Stanley George, praised the governor for improving infrastructure and bringing back confidence in governance. He highlighted ongoing road projects in Aba and Umuahia, as well as Otti’s efforts to attract investors to Abia.

“You can see that businesses are returning to Aba because the roads are better, and the environment is cleaner. He is also encouraging local production and supporting small businesses. The truth is that Governor Otti is writing a new story for Abia State,” he said.

Observers also pointed to his fiscal discipline and transparency as hallmarks of good governance. Governor Otti has been applauded for publishing detailed reports of the state’s income and expenditure, a practice that many Nigerians say should be adopted nationwide.

As Abia turns 34, many Rivers residents believe the state has become a shining example of what visionary leadership can achieve in a short time.

Mr. Augustine Worlu, a retired teacher in Port Harcourt, summed it up:

“Today, Abia is no longer mocked as a dirty and disorganized state. It is now admired for order, cleanliness, and progress. Governor Otti has shown that good governance is possible. We in Rivers can only hope our leaders will emulate his courage and determination.”

With Abia’s anniversary celebrations ongoing, the words from neighboring Rivers State are clear: Governor Alex Otti’s leadership is being felt beyond Abia’s borders, and his reforms are gradually setting a benchmark for governance in Nigeria.

The post Abia at 34: Rivers People Hail Governor Otti for Transforming the State. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As Nigerians continue to grapple with the rising cost of living, concerns are mounting over reported plans to increase the salaries of political office holders. The move, said to be under consideration by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), has sparked outrage among citizens who believe government priorities are misplaced at a time when millions are struggling to survive.

Speaking in an interview with our reporter, a public affairs analyst, Mr. Jide Ojo, described the proposal as an insult to ordinary Nigerians and a clear case of misplaced priority. According to him, political leaders already enjoy multiple allowances and benefits, while the majority of citizens earn far less and are left to endure economic hardship without support.

“This is a government that does not think about the people. People are suffocating and you still want them to further suffocate. This is not necessary. It is like fetching water from a well and pouring it into the ocean. I think the major concern of anybody in government now should be insecurity, poverty, health, education, and ensuring Nigerians can smile again,” Ojo said.

The analyst urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to take a firm stand against the proposal, noting that workers’ unions must act on their responsibility to defend the welfare of the people. He however expressed doubt that President Bola Tinubu would give approval to the plan, considering the current mood in the country.

A Port Harcourt trader, Mrs. Ngozi Chukwu, who also spoke to our reporter, said the news of a possible salary review for politicians shows how disconnected leaders have become from the realities of everyday Nigerians. She lamented that ordinary families can barely afford food, transport, and school fees, while politicians live in luxury.

“Things are too hard for us. Every day, prices of food and goods are going up. We are managing to eat once or twice a day, and they are talking about increasing the money of politicians? What about the poor people? What about market women like us? This government should focus on reducing the suffering of the masses, not adding more to it,” Mrs. Chukwu said.

For many Nigerians, the mere consideration of salary reviews for politicians at such a critical time highlights the widening gap between the ruling class and the citizens. With inflation at record highs, food prices soaring, and unemployment persisting, civil society groups and analysts warn that any attempt to raise political salaries could further deepen public anger and erode trust in government.

The post Analyst Faults Plans to Review Politicians’ Salaries Amid Rising Hardship. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The growing menace of poor waste disposal in Rivers State has raised concerns among experts and residents, who are now calling for urgent intervention. Professor Sydney Obidinma Nzako, a lecturer in Animal and Environmental Biology, has urged the government to embark on a statewide campaign on waste bagging, disposal, and proper environmental practices.

Speaking in an interview with our reporter, Prof. Nzako lamented the activities of scavengers, which he said are undermining the status of Port Harcourt as the “Garden City.” He stressed that reorientation of waste pickers and the public is necessary to drive a sustainable waste-to-wealth initiative.

“Somebody bags his refuse, then you scatter it, pick the valuables, and walk away without re-bagging it. You leave it there for the wind to spread around. These scavengers should be arrested and taken to a place where they will be reoriented on how to do things. Even if you must pick from the waste in the name of waste-to-wealth, you cannot practice it at the expense of public health,” he said.

Prof. Nzako further warned about the health risks associated with indiscriminate dumping and unpacked refuse across Port Harcourt metropolis. He expressed concern that citizens appear more interested in making social media videos than in demanding cleaner surroundings.

“The patriotic aspect is missing. People at the roadside just snap and post online instead of raising alarm. When we should be talking about health, the environment is filthy. And by default, everybody is affected because parasites and diseases spread by contact. A man with low health quality cannot claim to be healthy,” he added.

Meanwhile, residents across Port Harcourt and its environs have expressed disappointment over the performance of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA). They say littered waste, foul odour, and the growing number of flies are making life unbearable.

“The level of pollution in Rivers State is becoming alarming. Health, they say, is wealth. But how can we live well in this kind of environment? Rivers State used to be the Garden City, a place of serenity. Now waste is everywhere. It should be a wake-up call for government intervention,” a resident said.

Another resident at Oyibo added: “RIWAMA is nothing to write home about. When it rains, it becomes worse. Here in Oyibo, refuse is ignored. It stays for days and weeks, breeding flies, causing bad odour, polluting and defacing the environment.”

Both experts and residents are therefore appealing to the government and relevant agencies to act swiftly before the city’s waste crisis escalates into a major public health disaster.

The post Waste Crisis in Rivers State: Professor and Residents Demand Urgent Action. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

Across Nigeria, an increasing number of people are abandoning traditional banking halls in favor of Point of Sale (POS) systems for their financial transactions. Many citizens who spoke with our reporter said the rise of fintech companies has simplified banking and made POS their preferred option.

What started as a support service has now become a lifeline for millions, especially in communities where banks are either too far away or where long queues and network failures make transactions stressful. For many Nigerians, POS machines are not just about convenience—they represent accessibility, speed, and a safer alternative to carrying out financial activities in crowded banking halls.

“It is easier and less stressful. Using POS is more secure than going to the bank, because withdrawing huge amounts from the bank attracts too much attention,” one respondent explained.

Another added, “I prefer going to the bank, but only when I’m not in a hurry. Banks often tell customers there’s no cash, but POS operators always provide what you need.”

“In terms of convenience, you can step out of your house to withdraw money instead of spending time and transport going to the bank. It reduces stress,” said another user.

Finance experts also acknowledge this growing trend. Prof. Tamunonimim Ngenebua, a lecturer of Finance at the Rivers State University, admitted there has been a clear shift from traditional banks to POS services, influenced largely by the COVID-19 pandemic and the phasing out of old naira notes between 2022 and 2023.

“Most POS operators, though dependent on banks, are more accessible to people. You can use them day and night, unlike banks that operate within strict hours and bureaucratic processes,” he noted.

However, Prof. Ngenebua also warned of risks, pointing out that while POS offers speed and accessibility, it has also become a tool for fraudulent activities.

He further argued that the POS system is not helping Nigeria’s economy. According to him, multiple charges from both banks and POS agents reduce the real value of money in circulation.

“If I deposit ₦100,000, the POS agent charges me, and the bank also charges me. If I withdraw, the same thing happens. POS charges are even higher than banks’. For instance, if I transfer ₦100,000 to you, I am charged, and you are also charged, meaning I spend more than ₦100,000 to send ₦100,000, while you receive less. This continuous deduction reduces the value of money, which is why I say POS is not helping the economy,” he explained.

The post Nigerians Shift from Traditional Banking to POS Transactions. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

Residents of Kpea Community in Khana Local Government Area have raised fresh concerns over the prolonged oil spill in their area, accusing the operating oil company of abandoning the site five days after the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV). The incident, which has lasted for about two weeks, was traced to equipment failure according to the JIV report.

Speaking to our reporter, the Youth President of Kpea Community, Petabari Donaldson, lamented that gas continues to leak from the affected wellhead with no remediation efforts in sight.

“Leaving that place like that without doing anything to correct the menace is not giving us joy. After the JIV test, the company has not shown any sign of returning to curb the gas leakage. The gas is still coming up, and one of these nights it could catch fire. This is a serious problem to us because the company is silent and has done nothing further,” he said.

Mr. Donaldson, confirmed that the people have already written to NNPC Ltd, urging the company to implement NOSTRA’s recommendations for immediate cleanup and remediation.

“We have written to them, and they have received the letter. If they fail to respond, we will go further. NOSTRA’s report clearly recommended immediate attention to that site, including cleanup and remediation,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, environmental rights activist Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene, Executive Director of the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Center (YEAC), has called on regulators to invoke the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to hold the operators accountable.

“The JIV report points to equipment failure as the cause of this spill. The law is clear: when a spill occurs due to equipment failure, the company must pay compensation, carry out adequate cleanup, and remediate the environment. Relevant authorities must ensure accountability,” Dr. Dumnamene stated.

He further expressed worry that oil spills continue to occur in Ogoni land despite ongoing remediation under the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

“The continuous introduction of crude oil pollution in an area where cleanup is ongoing is unacceptable. While oil theft and illegal refining have reduced, it is alarming that spills are now occurring from equipment failure. This situation demands urgent measures,” he warned.

The post Community Raises Alarm Over Ongoing Oil Spill in Kpea, Calls for Urgent Action first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with doubts over the credibility of its electoral process, voices from across the country are rising in support of a full electronic voting system. Policy analysts and elder statesmen believe that adopting digital voting in future elections could eliminate ballot snatching, reduce rigging, and restore trust in democracy.

In an exclusive interview with our reporter, Dr. Joseph Ile, a Port Harcourt–based policy analyst, stressed that the time has come for Nigeria to embrace modern technology to safeguard democracy. According to him, resistance from politicians stems from their fear of losing elections and power, which has hindered efforts to make votes truly count.

“Electronic voting will generate transparency, enhance credibility, and restore the confidence of the Nigerian electorate,” Dr. Ile said. “People should be able to vote from the comfort of their homes, view their votes, others can also view the person they voted for, and even track how votes are counted. If we can use BVN in banks, capturing fingerprints and images accurately every day, then Nigeria has no excuse not to adopt such systems.”

He further expressed concern about the judiciary’s role in electoral disputes, accusing judges of being under the influence of ruling parties.

“To crown it all, the judicial system—especially the judges—has become a tool in the hands of the ruling party. Nigerians are losing hope in democracy when their votes are constantly undermined,” he lamented.

Adding his voice, elder statesman of Rumurlumini Community Chief Emmanuel Nwokorie, backed the call for electronic voting but urged caution.

“I support electronic voting because it will reduce ballot box snatching, rigging, and violence at polling units,” Chief Nwokorie noted. “However, Nigeria must first build the infrastructure—stable electricity, internet coverage, and cyber-security systems—before it can work effectively. Otherwise, we may replace one problem with another.”

He further advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to pilot the system in select states before rolling it out nationwide.

“We must learn from countries like India and Brazil, where electronic voting has been largely successful. But they did not rush into it; they built gradually. If Nigeria gets it right, it will go a long way in restoring peace and trust in our political system,” he said.

The post Calls for Electronic Voting Intensify as Analysts, Leaders Push for Electoral Reforms. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The group had earlier threatened to demonstrate if the government failed to settle death benefits and implement a new salary structure. However, speaking in an interview with our reporter, the group’s coordinator, Mr. Isaac Urang, revealed that the decision to call off the protest followed the payment of the newly approved pension salary structure.

“I thank the administrator for the ₦32,000 monthly payment he approved, covering May to July. That was why we decided to suspend the protest we had planned,” Urak explained. “We still use this opportunity to appeal to him to consider other aspects of our demands. Many retirees, some of whom left service as far back as 2012 and 2014, have not been paid a dime in gratuities or pension arrears. This accumulation of backlogs is becoming a heavy burden. Many pensioners are dying, leaving their money behind.”

Mr. Urang urged the state government to take additional steps by settling unpaid gratuities, clearing pension arrears, and paying death benefits to the families of deceased pensioners.

“Since the inception of this administration, death benefits have not been paid to anyone. Many next of kin survive solely on that money, and it is unfair to deny them after their loved ones served the state diligently,” he stressed.

The group is also appealing for a state-sponsored free medical programme for pensioners, citing their vulnerability to health challenges due to age.

“Most of us are over 60 years old and constantly battling various health conditions. The little pension we get is barely enough for survival, let alone medical care. The government should intervene,” Urang pleaded.

While the recent payments have brought some relief, the pensioners insist that their struggle is far from over, warning that protests may resume if the outstanding issues remain unresolved.

The post Rivers Pensioners Suspend Protest After Partial Fulfillment of Demand. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The people of Akinima in Ahoada West Local Government Area, Rivers State, are once again bracing for possible flooding as the water level in the Orashi River continues to rise following three days of unrelenting rainfall.

Akinima, located in the Orashi region, is one of the communities most vulnerable to seasonal flooding in Rivers State. The town is surrounded by low-lying farmlands and waterways that overflow whenever heavy rains persist, often leaving residents displaced and crops destroyed. For farmers, who depend almost entirely on agriculture for their livelihood, every prolonged downpour is a race against time.

Speaking with our correspondent, community leader Eniata Abieba painted a picture of growing anxiety in the community.

“Right from last week Thursday, there has been heavy downpour,” Abieba explained. “This has created more flash floods in our environment. After the earlier flooding began to subside, this recent heavy downpour has now increased the water level in our farms. Many of our women rushed to the farm to harvest their crops in panic. As the rain has devastated their farmland, they had to harvest the few crops that were left.”

According to him, the rush to salvage crops is not without its own challenges. The sudden harvest often means immature crops are uprooted, leading to reduced yields and lower income for families. In some cases, the water rises so fast that farmers lose everything before they can act.

This is not the first time the community has been plunged into such a crisis. Residents recall the 2022 flooding in the Orashi region, which submerged entire villages, cut off major roads, and left hundreds homeless. Many fear that without urgent intervention, history could repeat itself.

Abieba also had harsh words for the current flood management approach by government agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), saying that issuing flood warnings without follow-up action leaves communities in distress.

“This NEMA and NIMET always giving alerts has become a threat to the health of our people,” he said. “We live in an area prone to flooding. When these alerts come, they create panic in the minds of the people. If you tell somebody that fire will engulf your house, and you, as the government, know this area is a major food supplier for the nation, then you must also take action. You cannot just create panic without making any provision to help us overcome such a disaster. What is the use?”

Residents are now calling on the government to go beyond forecasts by creating evacuation plans, setting up temporary shelters, and providing relief materials for communities at high risk. They also want long-term solutions such as the dredging of the Orashi River, the construction of embankments, and the installation of proper drainage systems to manage excess water.

For now, the people of Akinima continue to watch the river’s edge nervously. Every ripple, every overnight rainfall, could mean the difference between saving a season’s worth of hard work or losing it all to the floodwaters once again.

The post Rising Orashi River Sparks Panic Harvests and Renewed Flood Fears in Akinima first appeared on National Ambassador News.

With just weeks to the scheduled August 30 local government elections in Rivers State, several residents of Port Harcourt have expressed their unwillingness to participate, citing short notice and constitutional concerns.

Some residents who spoke to our reporter criticized the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RESEC) for giving what they described as an unreasonably short timeframe for the elections. Others questioned the legality of the polls, citing the current political situation in the state.

“Even if I vote, my vote will not count. So there is no need to vote,” one resident said.

“I will not participate because the time frame is too short,” another added.

“I see the election as illegal. Since the elected governor is not in office, there is no need for any election,” a third respondent stated.

“Once the constitution guarantees that we should vote, I will vote. As long as it’s unconstitutional, I will not participate,” another affirmed.

Reacting to the growing concerns, the National Legal Adviser for the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights, Henry Ekene, urged RESEC to reconsider its decision and respect the will of the people.

“It can’t reasonably be done within one month—not even two months. It is not a reasonable schedule,” he said.

“I suggest that the commission should rethink and listen to the cry of the people. Elections are not for the commission or political parties, but essentially for the people. It is the people who will participate, and the outcome is for them.”

In a related development, security analyst Ukechi Smith Dibia called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to adopt proactive and strategic policing measures ahead of the elections. He stressed the need to secure not just polling units but also other vulnerable areas across the state.

“Considering the concerns of Rivers residents—who should be the electorate—it’s clear many are unhappy with the process. And when laws are not properly followed, crime is inevitable,” he noted.

“Law enforcement agencies in Rivers State should position themselves not only at polling units but also in strategic locations where innocent people could be at risk.”

Mr. Smith Dibia further warned that opportunistic individuals may take advantage of the situation to commit crimes, urging the police to give special attention to protecting local government infrastructure and maintaining law and order during the election period.

The post Voter Apathy Looms as Residents Reject August 30 Council Election in Rivers State. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The practice of paying extra charges while securing accommodation is not limited to Rivers State alone but is a common occurrence in major cities across Nigeria, says estate surveyor and valuer, Emma Oka Wike.

Speaking in an interview, Mr. Wike noted that tenants are often burdened with additional fees beyond rent, especially when they do not engage the services of professional estate surveyors or valuers.

“It is not peculiar to Rivers State alone. Even in Abuja, you experience the same thing,” he said. “That’s why we always advise the public to consult professional estate surveyors and valuers who are into real estate. No professional will ask for ‘drinking money’ or ‘matching ground’—that’s unprofessional.”

According to him, a certified estate surveyor is only entitled to a professional fee. Other charges like service fees are valid only when there are shared facilities to maintain, but many of the unregulated extra fees are demanded by unqualified agents posing as professionals.

“These extra charges are mostly collected by people who are not trained professionals but are into estate agency,” he added.

On the ongoing public calls for government regulation of house rents, Mr. Wike, a former President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, explained that rent control policies are hard to implement and often fail.

“Rent control has never worked in any society,” he said. “You can’t control what you didn’t finance. If someone obtains a loan at a high-interest rate to build a house, how do you expect to dictate how much he should rent it for?”

He cited failed attempts at rent control in Lagos and Rivers states during previous administrations as evidence that such policies are difficult to enforce.

“Even if you take the matter to court and the landlord says he won’t rent out his property under those terms, what can you do?” he asked.

Instead of imposing rent controls, Mr. Wike advised that the government should consider providing financial assistance to help citizens afford decent housing, particularly those in civil and public service.

“Any attempt to control house rent will discourage investment in real estate,” he warned. “If someone has ₦30 million to ₦60 million to invest and sees that the government wants to dictate rent prices, they’ll move that money elsewhere.”

“The government should focus on creating a conducive environment for investment and allow the market to determine rent,” he concluded. “In the meantime, they can support rent payments, especially for low-income earners.”

The post Extra Charges on House Rent Not Peculiar to Rivers State – Estate Surveyor. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Breastfeeding Week, medical professionals and maternal health advocates are calling for stronger and more sustainable support systems to empower mothers and protect infants. This year’s theme, “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” underscores the need to create enabling environments that encourage and sustain the natural practice of breastfeeding, widely recognized as the healthiest start in life for a child.

Despite overwhelming scientific evidence that breastfeeding reduces infant mortality, boosts brain development, and significantly lowers health risks for both babies and mothers, many women in Nigeria still struggle to practice exclusive breastfeeding due to cultural myths, lack of family support, and unfriendly workplace policies.

Health experts across Nigeria are speaking out this week, urging the government, private sector, and communities to do more in creating supportive environments that allow mothers to breastfeed successfully.

Dr. Linda Okorie, a Consultant Pediatrician at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, described breast milk as “nature’s first line of defense” for newborns.

“Breast milk contains powerful antibodies, enzymes, and essential nutrients that protect the baby against infections like diarrhea and pneumonia. It’s the safest and most complete food for infants,” she said.

Dr. Okorie emphasized the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months — without water, infant formula, or other liquids — and recommended initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after delivery.

“That early skin-to-skin contact isn’t just emotional. It helps the baby latch properly and reduces postpartum bleeding in mothers. It’s life-saving for both the mother and child,” she added.

She further advised mothers to fully commit to six months of exclusive breastfeeding, describing it as one of the greatest gifts a mother can give her child.

“Exclusive breastfeeding for six months builds a strong immune system in babies, reduces the risk of malnutrition, and improves survival rates. It also saves families money and protects children from infections,” Dr. Okorie noted.

Adding to the discussion, Dr. Samuel Adeyemi, a Family Physician at Beulah Hospital in Port Harcourt, spoke on the emotional and cognitive benefits of breastfeeding.

“Breastfeeding supports early bonding between mother and child, which is crucial for social and psychological development. Studies show that children who are breastfed tend to have higher IQs and are less likely to experience behavioral issues,” he noted.

Dr. Adeyemi also highlighted the maternal health benefits, stating that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, aids in postpartum weight recovery, and lowers the chances of postpartum depression.

Despite this knowledge, many mothers are unable to continue breastfeeding due to external pressures, especially after returning to work. In Nigeria, maternity leave in the public sector is often limited to just three months — a far cry from the six months of exclusive breastfeeding recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Chika Nwosu, a Public Health Expert and Maternal Health Advocate, said it is time for systemic change. She lamented that many Nigerian women are forced to return to work just six weeks after childbirth — a situation she described as “unrealistic and unfair.”

“Few workplaces offer breastfeeding-friendly environments. Most offices lack designated lactation rooms or flexible hours for nursing mothers,” she said.

Dr. Nwosu called on both government institutions and private employers to prioritize maternal health by implementing long-term policies that support breastfeeding, including: at least six months of paid maternity leave, flexible
work arrangements for nursing mothers, providion ofprivate lactation rooms in offices and public spaces. She also advised mothers to prioritize their well-being.

“A supportive system makes all the difference. If we want more women to breastfeed, we must create the conditions that make it realistic, safe, and dignified. And mothers, take care of yourselves—eat well, stay hydrated, and rest as much as you can,” she concluded.

As World Breastfeeding Week continues, stakeholders in the health sector are urging Nigerians to recognize that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice — it is a public health imperative. Creating sustainable systems to support mothers is not only an investment in children’s health but also in the nation’s future.

The post Doctors Call for Sustainable Support Systems as Nigeria Marks World Breastfeeding Week first appeared on National Ambassador News.

The recently concluded five-day civil service verification exercise in Rivers State may have ended on Monday, but the concerns it raised are far from over. Stakeholders are now calling on the state government to urgently address staff shortages across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), which they say are undermining productivity and service delivery.

Elder statesman and retired civil servant from Rumuolumeni community, Mr. Johnson Amadi, expressed concern over the discrepancies in staff strength uncovered during the exercise. According to him, many ministries remain grossly understaffed due to ongoing retirements and a lack of new recruitment.

“The state government itself has admitted that there were shortages in the civil service. Shortage of staff is almost in every MDA, so there is need for recruitment,” Amadi stated. “The ones in the civil service are ageing, and people retire almost on a monthly basis. Naturally, it will affect productivity.”

He noted that some ministries have resorted to hiring casual workers to fill staffing gaps, a temporary fix that cannot replace a fully staffed, well-trained workforce. Amadi also emphasized the need for the retraining and upskilling of existing personnel to ensure efficient public service delivery.

Residents of Port Harcourt also weighed in on the verification exercise and its implications. While some welcomed the process, others questioned its effectiveness and overall value.

“The verification is good,” one resident said. “They need to check whether people are really working, because some are receiving salaries without doing the job.”

Another respondent raised concerns about the outcome of the exercise:

“If the essence is to check the presence of ghost workers, whether they achieve it or not, we don’t even know. And even when they don’t achieve it, the cost of maintaining the civil service will still be going high, rather than coming down. It feels like a waste of time and resources.”

Yet another resident pointed to the economic realities faced by civil servants:

“It is not necessary. The pay is not enough, and people are doing other jobs alongside government work just to meet their needs.”

As Rivers State government reviews the results of the verification, the growing calls for recruitment, transparency, and workforce reform are becoming harder to ignore. Observers say that unless the staffing gaps are addressed, productivity and morale in the state’s civil service will continue to decline.

The post Calls for Recruitment Grow After Civil Service Verification in Rivers State. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

As the world recently marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 28, the Rivers State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has raised an urgent call to parents and guardians to be more vigilant about their children’s activities, both online and offline.

Speaking in an interview, Mrs. Joy Annan, Principal Intelligence Officer and Head of the Public Enlightenment Unit at NAPTIP, emphasized that many young people fall victim to trafficking due to lack of proper parental monitoring and guidance.

“Check the sites they visit from time to time. Monitor what they do online and offline so they don’t fall victim,” she advised.

“When people hear ‘trafficking,’ they often think it’s only about sex work. But it includes much more—forced marriages, child begging, forced labour on farms or in factories, child pornography, and sex torture. In many cases, victims are asked to strip, take nude pictures of themselves, which are then used to extort money or blackmail them.”

Mrs. Annan further explained that demanding nude photos from someone and using them to blackmail or extort money is a form of trafficking and is punishable under Nigerian law.

One of the more alarming developments, she added, is the increasing rate of organ harvesting, particularly among unsuspecting youths.

“Parents, you must be more focused on your children. The common one now is organ harvesting. How can parents not know where their children are or who they are with? Before you realize it, it becomes a case of a missing person,” she said.

“The black market for organs like kidneys is growing. But they don’t come asking directly. These organs are often obtained through illegal and dangerous means. That’s why we’re strongly advising parents to keep a close watch on their children’s movements and associations.”

Mrs. Annan urged the public to take advantage of NAPTIP’s public awareness campaigns, report suspicious activities, and educate their communities on the different forms of trafficking that exist today.

As the world shines a light on the global fight against human trafficking, NAPTIP continues to stress the critical role of families and communities in prevention and early detection, calling on all to “see something and say something.”

The post NAPTIP Warns Parents on Rising Cases of Organ Harvesting and Human Trafficking. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

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A prominent human rights lawyer, Higher King, has applauded Vice President Kashim Shettima for boldly reaffirming a fundamental principle of Nigeria’s democracy — that a president lacks the constitutional power to remove any elected official from office.

Reacting to the Vice President’s recent statement, Higher King described it as “a courageous declaration of the obvious truth” and emphasized that Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, does not empower the president to sack elected officials such as governors or local government chairmen.

“We have said this several times: the 1999 Constitution, as amended, does not give the President of Nigeria the powers to remove an elected governor — not even a councillor,” he said. “If you come into office through the ballot box, only the people who voted you in can vote you out. The principle is simple: only he who hires can fire. That is the law everywhere in the world.”

The legal expert further criticized what he termed the excessive powers of the Nigerian presidency, attributing the imbalance to colonial legacies.

“The Nigerian president has so much power that he sometimes believes he is God,” King said. “This mindset stems from the British colonial era. When the British ruled Nigeria and other parts of Africa, they made the Governor-General appear as a godlike figure. They dethroned our kings and queens, dismantled indigenous institutions, and replaced them with their own structures — all while maintaining a powerful monarchy back in London. That colonial mentality has sadly persisted.”

Higher King stressed the need for constitutional reforms that reflect true federalism and uphold the sanctity of the people’s mandate in a democratic system.

His remarks follow a recent comment by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who publicly stated that it is unconstitutional for a sitting president to remove an elected government by any means. Shettima referenced his own experience during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State, saying it was the counsel of legal expert Ahmed Adokiyi that prevented then-President Goodluck Jonathan from removing him from office.

The Vice President’s statement has reignited national discourse on the limits of executive power and the importance of respecting democratic processes.

The post Only the People Can Remove Elected Leaders, Says Human Rights Lawyer. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

Political analysts have condemned the recent inauguration of the chairman and members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) by the state’s sole administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, describing the move as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic order in the state.

Dr. Anthony Egobueze, a political analyst and Head of the Department of Political Science at Rivers State University, said the action of the sole administrator amounts to an abuse of constitutional processes. He argued that the appointment and inauguration of RSIEC officials by a non-elected administrator are not backed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“It is illegal because the current administration in Rivers State, headed by a sole administrator, is not recognized by the constitution. Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) does not envisage the appointment of an administrator by the president to take over a state,” Dr. Egobueze said.

“In a federal system like Nigeria’s, both the federal government and the federating units derive their powers from the constitution. None of them has the authority to dismantle or override structures legally established by the same constitution.”

Dr. Egobueze further warned that it would be inappropriate and unconstitutional for the sole administrator to go ahead with plans to conduct local government elections in the state.

“There are multiple cases in court concerning the dissolution of elected councils and other actions taken by the administrator. It would be an aberration for him to preside over such critical democratic processes as local government elections,” he said.

“Also, it is questionable that the National Assembly went ahead to screen and confirm the RSIEC nominees, granting the administrator the power to inaugurate them. That entire process is irregular and legally suspect.”

Similarly, Professor Kenneth Nweke, a political science lecturer at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, echoed Dr. Egobueze’s concerns. He stated that the sole administrator has no moral or legal justification to organize elections, especially when the legitimacy of his office is under litigation.

“It does not make sense for an unelected administrator to contemplate conducting local government elections. His tenure, and all actions stemming from it, are under judicial scrutiny. Everything surrounding his authority is a subject of ongoing litigation,” Prof. Nweke said.

“Now that some peace has been restored between key political actors in the state, all such controversial processes should be suspended until a return to a democratically elected government is achieved.”

The analysts urged stakeholders to respect constitutional procedures and avoid setting dangerous precedents that may weaken Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The post Analysts Fault Inauguration of Rivers Electoral Body, Warn Against LG Elections Under Sole Administrator. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

An environmentalist in Rivers State, Meshack Onyi, has expressed deep concern over the lack of equipment and government attention to blocked drainage systems across Port Harcourt and its surrounding areas. Speaking with our reporter, Mr. Onyi said that the persistent rainfall coupled with poor drainage management poses both environmental and public health threats to residents.

“June, July, and September are the peak of the rainy season,” Mr. Onyi stated. “Most of the drainages in Port Harcourt are covered, and unfortunately, there are no facilities or machinery in place to distill them. Typically, covered drainages require special equipment to maintain and clean them. But in our case, we lack such tools, which makes it almost impossible to clear the blockages. If these drainages are not properly distilled, we risk incurring severe losses and environmental damage. Thankfully, we have not yet reached the critical situation seen in Mokwa, Niger State—but we must act quickly.”

Mr. Onyi further highlighted the health dangers associated with urban flash floods, warning that the risks go far beyond property damage.

“When these floods occur, homes get submerged, damaging electrical appliances and contaminating groundwater sources like boreholes. That is the most dangerous part—most people don’t realize that once it floods, boreholes and soakaways mix with floodwaters, leading to widespread contamination. Residents unknowingly expose themselves to waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. The public needs to be aware of these invisible but deadly consequences.”

The continuous downpour in Port Harcourt has resulted in repeated flash floods, causing widespread disruption of daily activities and economic losses. Business owners in affected areas lamented poor sales and repeated property damage.

“Market is not moving. We’re not selling; people aren’t buying,” a shop owner said. “I have been bailing water out of my shop since morning. Customers are stuck at home and can’t come out because of the flood.”

In addition to economic concerns, safety hazards have emerged across several parts of the city. Manholes without covers pose grave risks to pedestrians navigating flooded roads. Some students of the University of Port Harcourt residing around First Mechanic and Choba Station reported missing classes due to impassable roads.

Motorists plying the Choba axis also blamed the persistent flooding at the Choba Junction on unchecked waste discharge from nearby eateries and commercial outlets.

“The drainage here is constantly clogged because some of these eateries discharge oily and solid waste directly into the gutters,” a driver said. “The government needs to step in before this gets completely out of hand.”

Residents are now calling on the Rivers State Government and the Port Harcourt City Council to urgently deploy appropriate drainage-clearing equipment and enforce environmental regulations to avert a full-blown disaster.

The post Persistent Flooding in Port Harcourt: Environmentalist, Residents Raise Alarm Over Blocked Drainages and Health Hazards. first appeared on National Ambassador News.

Following Skin Health Day, observed on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, medical experts are raising awareness about the critical role skin plays in the early detection of health problems and the promotion of overall well-being.

Speaking in an interview, a professor of dermatology and chairman of the National Association of Dermatologists in Rivers State Dasetima Dandesun Altraide, emphasized that the skin is more than just the body’s outer covering. According to him, it is a vital organ that acts as the first line of defense against external threats and serves as a window into the body’s internal health.

“Skin can boost self-confidence and improve overall well-being,” Prof. Altraide said. “By taking care of your skin, you minimize the need for more intensive treatment later. It also helps us with early detection of health problems. There are manifestations we see on the skin that indicate conditions such as diabetes or thyroid diseases.”

He added that certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis, are no longer viewed merely as skin issues but are now recognized as systemic conditions linked to metabolic syndrome.

“We used to think psoriasis was only a skin disease, but we now know it’s a systemic disease. When we make a diagnosis of psoriasis, we also screen the patient for metabolic syndrome because of its deeper implications.”

In addition to diagnostic importance, Prof. Altraide noted that skin conditions can significantly affect self-esteem and social interaction, particularly when left untreated.

Also speaking, Mr. Alfred Robinson, a skincare specialist, stressed the importance of sun protection — not just when outdoors, but even while indoors. He urged the public to make daily sunscreen use a habit.

“Sun protection and a good skincare routine can help prevent premature aging, which includes wrinkles and dark spots. Even when indoors, the sun’s rays can penetrate windows and damage your skin, especially for people living with albinism,” Alfred explained. “For our climate, a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 is recommended. In fact, many professionals advise using SPF 50 or higher.”

Prof. Altraide also warned against the frequent use of UV lamps — especially those used for drying gel nail polish — noting that they can damage skin cells and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer.

He revealed that over 3,000 skin diseases affect more than 1.8 billion people globally at any given time, yet more than 3 billion people worldwide lack access to proper dermatological care.

The post Skin Health Holds the Key to Early Disease Detection – Experts Say. first appeared on National Ambassador News.