Delta community protests marginalisation

The People of Okpaka, Opete Communities, Urhuegwior, in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday cried out to the Delta State government, demanding to be recognised in the scheme of things before the expiration of governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration. Speaking through the President-general of Okpaka Community, Olorogun Godwin Edoja, at his country home in Okpaka, the community lamented the poor state of infrastructure in the community since 2011. He said; “The entire people of Okpaka/Opete, Urhiegwior, have never benefited anything from the time till date. There has been no recognition from the local council either. We want stakeholders and indigenes of the communities to be recognized because we gave over 80percent votes to the governor in the 2011 election.” “We have been voting for PDP at the local, state and federal levels so we deserve to raise alarm when not being recognized in the system, he said.

Afghan presidential contenders sign unity deal

A deal to form a government of national unity in Afghanistan has been signed at a ceremony in Kabul. The signing - broadcast live on national TV - comes after months of wrangling following presidential elections in April and June. Under the deal, Ashraf Ghani becomes president while runner-up Abdullah Abdullah nominates a CEO with powers similar to those of prime minister. The final result of the bitterly contested poll is due to be announced. Both sides had accused the other of fraud following the election and the months of uncertainty have damaged the economy and worsened insecurity. Mr Ghani and Mr Abdullah signed the agreement at a ceremony inside the presidential palace in the capital, Kabul. They then stood and embraced each other.