Ideas leave a trail.

Today, 11th October, marks the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of girls’ education and empowerment. I am delighted to share that I began the celebrations on Sunday, 6th October, with a visit to an all-girls school, Holy Rosary Secondary School in Nsugbe. During the visit, I pledged ₦120 million for the educational and health support of the Holy Rosary sisters, whose apostolate focuses on girl-child education. ₦20 million of this pledge was specifically allocated to the school. I plan to visit other girls’ schools in the coming weeks to continue celebrating this important occasion. This day reminds us of the vital need to invest in girls’ education, which is essential for societal progress. Educated girls grow into empowered women who contribute significantly to their communities, breaking cycles of poverty and inequality. It’s a call to action for all of us to support initiatives that ensure access to quality education for every girl, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. The theme for this year’s International Day of the Girl Child is ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ which underscores the need for urgent action and amplifies the power of girls’ voices in shaping the future. Let us listen to them, invest in proven solutions, and support their leadership and empowerment. Together, we can build a world where every girl has the opportunity to realize her potential. -PO

Today, I join the Global Community in commemorating World Mental Health Day, on which we raise awareness of mental health issues while encouraging concerted efforts to support those experiencing mental health issues in our nation. Though not often well talked about, mental health remains a very critical component of our health sector, which if not given due attention, greatly impacts negatively on our productivity as a nation. A healthy nation, they say, is a wealthy nation. I dare say, a mentally healthy nation, is a more productive nation. In Nigeria, mental health remains one of the critical health issues not given the due attention it deserves. The worsening economic situation resulting from hunger, poverty, and income inequalities in the country, coupled with other socio-political issues affecting the nation, have continued to fuel a growing menace of mental health cases. The National Institute of Health reports that about 40 to 60 million Nigerians suffer various forms of mental ailment. This translates to about 1 in every 5 Nigerians, battling with mental health issues. Suicide cases in the country, fueled by anxiety and depression, have remained on the increase. It is reported that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of suicide and depression in Sub-Saharan Africa. The current rate of suicide in Nigeria is 9.50% out of 100,000 people. Drug abuse is also another contributor to mental health decadence in our society. According to reports, an estimated 14.3 million people aged between 15 and 64 years in Nigeria, are addicted to drugs and substance abuse. Nigeria is also ranked 3rd most stressful country in the world, which contributes to different mental illnesses in the nation. The above grim statistics reflect the lack of attention given to mental health, a critical contributor to national development in our society. A nation that truly wants to improve its productive capacity must pay attention to the health of its citizens. A day like this reminds us, as leaders, to prioritise the well-being of our people, by not only investing more in the health sector but putting in place policies and measures that will improve the lives of our people through improved standards of living. We are also reminded as a people to always seek medical attention when faced with any mental health challenge and to show love and support to our people who are already contending with the challenge. We remain committed to building a New Nigeria where everyone's well-being will be prioritized. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, Governor Alex Otti @alexottiofr and I, along with the Caretaker Chairman and Secretary of the Labour Party, convened to discuss and review recent developments, including the judgment delivered by an Abuja High Court on the same day. I urge all members of the Labour Party to remain calm and patient as we continue to engage in discussions and consultations. Our goal is to emerge stronger and more unified, standing together as one united front. We must not allow this to divert us from addressing the pressing issues affecting our people today. We have always known that the task of creating a new Nigeria that is possible will not come without challenges. -PO

Today, Sunday, I had the honor of worshipping with the students of Holy Rosary College, Nsugbe, in celebration of their 10th anniversary—an important milestone for a school I had the privilege of laying the foundation for in 2013. This celebration also coincides with the Holy Rosary Sisters’ centenary, marking 100 years of their remarkable dedication to education, healthcare, and empowering individuals, thereby lifting them out of poverty since their founding by Bishop Joseph Shanahan in 1924. As part of this special occasion, I attended a Mass yesterday at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, where we reflected on the Sisters’ unwavering commitment to serving humanity. Their century-long mission has transformed countless lives, and I encouraged them to continue their invaluable work, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. To support their immense work, I pledged ₦120 million over the next two years. Of this amount, ₦100 million will be directed through their headquarters in Enugu, dedicated to their educational, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, including the facilities they are building in Nsukka. The remaining ₦20 million is specifically for Holy Rosary College, Nsugbe, as part of redeeming a cheque I signed for them towards the end of my tenure as Governor, which was later canceled by the succeeding government. My commitment to education during my governorship remains unwavering, and this pledge reflects my belief that these sectors are vital to our nation’s development and require continuous investment and support. I also encouraged the Sisters to continue serving the people of Nigeria without discrimination, as they have always done. The legacy of the Holy Rosary Sisters reminds us that through discipline, service, and unity, we can build a better society. I remain committed to supporting efforts that foster progress in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation across Nigeria. -PO

Today, I was in Asaba, Delta State capital to rejoice with other men of goodwill over the coronation of my dear elder brother, Prof. Epiphany Chibuogu Azinge, SAN, as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. It was a momentous occasion, not only for the people of Asaba but for all who appreciate the profound value of our culture and tradition. Prof. Azinge’s elevation to this revered position is an acknowledgment of his lifetime of service, both in academia and in the legal profession where his contributions have been exceptional. In keeping with tradition, I humbly paid my respects to the Asagba by kneeling before him for a royal blessing. This act of reverence and respect speaks to our age-long shared cultural heritage and the honour we accord to our traditional values , institutions and leadership. Moments like these highlight the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage, which is vital for building the productive society we aspire to, one necessary for a new Nigeria. While I remain committed to respecting the diverse customs of our vast country, which should serve as sources of tourism and learning, I wish him many fruitful years as the Asagba, and may his reign bring peace, progress, and prosperity to his people. -PO

On this World Teachers Day, I join the global community in celebrating members of a very unique profession that forms the basis of human development. It is a day to celebrate all teachers, especially teachers in Nigeria, whose dedication and resilience have kept the fires of our education sector burning, even against all odds. Teachers, at all levels play very critical roles in society by contributing immeasurably to the intellectual and moral formation of our children. Their welfare must, therefore, be prioritized by the government. On this note, I add my voice in demanding a better life, working Conditions and advancement opportunities for all teachers in Nigeria. Recently, I read a very concerning report that not less than 30 members of the Academic Staff Union of the Universities, ASUU, have resigned from Sa’adu Zungur University, SAZU in Bauchi State due to poor pay and poor handling of the affairs of members. A few days ago, precisely on October 1, it was reported that the Academic Staff Union of Universities had issued a 35-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to address the lingering crises threatening the University System. Yesterday, another report stated that the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, ASUP, has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to address its demands, which includes better care and attention to the needs of the members. Sadly, all these obvious failures reflect the general lack of attention to the welfare of teachers in our nation in general . The lack of attention to the welfare of our teachers has remained unresolved for far too long. Aside from caring for the teachers, the government must invest more in the training of more teachers. It is reported that the world is in dire shortage of teachers to the tune of 45 million. Africa alone needs about 15 million teachers to boost its education sector. At the basic education level, which I have maintained is the most critical, there is a reported shortage of 194,876 teachers in public primary schools across Nigeria. With over 18 million out-of-school children roaming the streets, training and recruiting more teachers has become a matter of severe urgency. Government must, therefore, ensure it speedily resolves any lingering issues it has with the teachers and invest more in the welfare, training, and development of Nigerian teachers to enable them continue to deliver the best standard of education to our children. I sincerely commend all the Nigerian teachers for their tireless dedication to the growth of education, not minding the various socio-economic challenges burdening every Nigerian, while urging them to keep the fire burning. A New Nigeria remains POssible. Happy World Teachers Day to all Nigerian Teachers. -PO

Today, in furtherance of my unwavering commitment to critical and measurable areas of development - health, education, and lifting people out of poverty - I visited Our Lady of Lourdes College of Nursing Sciences, Ihiala. During my visit, I took stock of their progress and was pleased to witness the positive outcomes of our ongoing support, the most recent being the ₦20 million I donated a few months ago to aid their efforts. In recognition of their commendable work, I made an additional donation of ₦10 million today, with the promise of continued support. Thereafter, I visited the Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital in Oraifite, a world-class medical facility specialising in cardiovascular diseases, built by the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation. This facility, working in collaboration with the VOOM Foundation, is doing remarkable work in saving lives. I was truly impressed to learn that they have completed 117 open-heart surgeries, 2 vascular surgeries, and 10 interventional cardiology procedures. These milestones represent an immediate and substantial contribution to improving healthcare and saving lives, thereby supporting a healthier and more prosperous society. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sir Emeka Okwuosa and the VOOM Foundation for their extraordinary dedication. As I have often stated, we can collectively build a better society where the needs of children, the vulnerable, and the underprivileged are met. We must all work hard and sacrifice for a new Nigeria that is possible. -PO

I sincerely congratulate the Nigerian-born Dr. Peter O. Nwosu, on his landmark achievement of emerging as the 11th and first black President of the State University of New York at Oswego, United States. In a historic watershed event, Dr Nwosu was officially inaugurated into this very distinguished position on the 27th of September, marking the first time an African-born president and an immigrant will lead the 163-year-old institution. As a man who has remained passionate and committed to the growth of education in society, Dr. Nwosu has continued to inspire the youths to prioritize education as a pathway to success in life. His visible achievements are a stark reminder, not just to individuals in society, but to us, the leaders of the Nigerian society, of the need to prioritize investment in education if we must salvage our nation from its present level of decadence and place it on the path of development. As I have maintained, education remains the best investment any nation can make for its citizens. I congratulate him once again and pray to God to grant him the wisdom and strength to function effectively in this new position as he also continues to contribute to our national development, especially in the education sector. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Anniversary celebrations, whether for an individual or a country, offer opportunities to reflect on memories, celebrate accomplishments, look toward the future, and express gratitude. This is exactly what we are doing today as our dear nation marks its 64th independence anniversary. It is now 64 years since Nigeria took charge of its destiny and embarked on the journey toward development as a sovereign nation. Today is a day to appreciate God for abundantly blessing us with natural, human, and material resources to build a great nation. However, for me, this should also be a day of sober reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose actions and inactions have contributed to the stagnation and glaring failures we are witnessing at present. As the saying goes, an unexamined life is not worth living. We must, therefore, examine ourselves in the light of our nation's journey over the past six decades. Have we lifted our people out of poverty, or have we driven more into it? Have we made education accessible to every Nigerian child, or have we allowed an army of over 18 million out-of-school children to roam the streets? Have we built a productive economy, or have we created a nation with the worst debt profile in its history? By every measure of development, from the critical areas to the smallest aspects, we are underperforming. We rank poorly in security and peacefulness, making us one of the most insecure nations globally. We are also ranked among the most corrupt countries, and we are noted for our disregard for the rule of law. Our nation continues its dangerous dance on the edge of a precipice. When we compare ourselves to countries that gained independence around the same time—before or after us—Nigeria stands out as a nation in decline, urgently in need of rescue from further decay. On this day, therefore, we must make a solemn commitment to build a nation that is truly independent from the state capture that has dragged it into failure and kept its people in suffering. We must create a nation free from tribal disunity and religious disharmony. We must build a New and Productive Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. That is the independence we should celebrate as a nation whose greatness remains POssible. -PO

At the weekend, I joined global leaders that included, former Presidents, Prime ministers, serving and retired senior government officials, military chiefs, renowned academics, sports personalities, and others in Athens, Greece, for a Leadership Dialogue focused on governance, particularly in the areas of Democracy, Security and the Economy in today's world. The focus was on the lessons for future leaders. In my brief presentation, I listed some of the variables responsible for the insecurity in Africa and I emphasized that as leaders, we must acknowledge the profound global and generational transformations confronting us. Despite vast human and material resources, there remain significant unmet needs in global governance. Urgent attention must be paid to enhancing collective security, lifting people out of poverty, and reducing injustice and inequality in society. In the continent, we face high levels of insecurity, alarming corruption, worsening poverty, huge youth unemployment, and gross inequality. Over 50% of the world's multidimensionally poor live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria and Congo both have over 60% of their populations living in poverty and suffering from unacceptable levels of inequality. Non-state actors have now taken over security in some African nations. Furthermore, many African countries underinvest in critical areas of development, such as health and education. Future African leaders must take bold, accelerated, just, and transformative actions to achieve far-reaching, people-centered development. African leaders must confront insecurity head-on and reassure citizens of the state’s ability to maintain security without being undermined by non-state actors. Corruption must be tackled with vigor. Leaders must invest in critical areas of development to improve health and education while addressing poverty, unemployment, hunger, and other pressing societal challenges. Nigeria has all the resources needed to move in this direction, and we remain committed to placing the nation on the right path. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Happy 70th Birthday to Bishop David O. Oyedepo! A remarkable figure in faith, a dedicated servant in God's vineyard, and a leader who exemplifies the true purpose of God's creation. Your life continues to be a source of blessing and inspiration, reflecting dedication, tireless work, and a commitment to God's mission. Through your ministry, countless lives have been touched, embodying faith, hope, and love. Outstanding Institutions such as Living Faith Church, Covenant University, and Kingdom Heritage Model School stand as lasting testimonies to your pursuit of excellence. Today, we honour your enduring legacy, your compassionate outreach, and your immense contribution to humanity. May God continue to strengthen, guide, and bless you in all your endeavours. Thank you for being a beacon of God's grace. Your remarkable journey will inspire generations to embrace faith, integrity, and purposeful living. May your continued intervention through prayer in the affairs of our country help us to find direction for a new Nigeria. -PO

What happened over the weekend in the name of election in Edo State does not in any way represent the democratic process we chose as a method of electing our political leadership. Instead, it was a blatant example of 'state capture' and continued gross undermining of our democratic process and values. Any nation whose leadership recruitment process is so fatally flawed is doomed, and we are all seeing the effect in our country. I urge those in authority not to allow this situation to stand, or depend on it to remain in power. As a country, we have invested significantly in IReV and BVAS, and they must be allowed to function and used properly in order to free our electoral process from the massive falsification that has plagued it and worsening. To the agencies and individuals being used to undermine our democracy simply because they hold positions of authority, please remember that your time in office is not eternal. The society that you are helping to destroy today will eventually take her revenge on you tomorrow. To the lecturers and others complicit in perpetuating this charade, you must reflect deeply on the roles you are playing in damaging the very foundation of our democracy. The damage you are causing today will inevitably take revenge on you tomorrow and affect your children in the future. This kind of action has no place in a true democracy. That is why I have always maintained that today’s politics is not about capturing power, but about saving the country and making it work for everyone, regardless of their background. I remain committed to building a new and truly democratic Nigeria, which I insist is very POssible. -PO

As campaign for the Edo governorship election on 21st September 2024 comes to an end today. troubling comments continue to emerge. One party admits to having packaged fake leaders in the past—who knows what they offer now, perhaps expired ones—while another insists it is a do-or-die affair. At Labour Party, we offer genuine leadership built on competence, capacity and compassion. For us, elections are not war; they are opportunities to present authentic leadership and drive meaningful development. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Yesterday, the national leadership of our party joined @OlumideAkpata and his deputy, Alhaji Kadiri Asamah Yusuf, after their mega rally in Edo State, wrapping up our campaign efforts ahead of the September 21st, 2024, election. The event was attended by the Leadership of the Labour Party and the Obidients Movement, including Senator Nenadi Usman, Labour Party Caretaker Chairman; Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, Labour Party Vice Presidential Candidate; Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Deputy Governor of Abia State; Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District; Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South; Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement; Aisha Yesufu, and many others. Together, we reaffirmed our collective vision for a Nigeria where leadership is driven by competence and capacity, character and compassion, education and development, and dedication to the welfare of the people. In solidarity, we reaffirmed our commitment to and belief in democracy. A new more democratic Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Today, I, along with the Labour Party Caretaker Chairman, Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman; Vice Presidential Candidate, Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed; Dr Tanko Yunusa, the National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement, and other members of the party and the Obidient Movement, paid a condolence/solidarity visit to Borno state. While in the state, we visited the state Governor, Babagana Zulum, His Highness the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Al Amin El-Kanemi, the good people of Borno State, following the recent flooding which claimed many lives and destroyed properties estimated at huge costs . Additionally, we visited the Bank of the North spare parts market, where traders lost their goods, an IDP camp in Government College where we met thousands of people and also visited a woman who tragically lost her newborn twins to the flood. The Labour Party is committed to supporting those affected by the devastating floods in Borno State. To demonstrate our solidarity, we have made an initial donation of ₦50M to the state government. But our support doesn't stop there. We will continue to stand with the people of Borno, providing aid and resources to help them rebuild and recover from this tragedy. As the people of Borno navigate this challenging time, we want them to know they are not alone. We are dedicated to helping alleviate the suffering and hardship caused by the floods, which have submerged over half of Maiduguri and displaced thousands of residents. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, and we will do everything in our power to support them. I thank the various levels of government, especially the Borno State government, for their intervention and support for the affected people. As we reflect on the immense loss and the daunting journey of recovery, may God Almighty grant eternal rest to those who lost their lives, replenish the losses of those who lost their goods, and grant quick healing to those still in the hospital. Above all, may God Almighty continue to bless Borno State and Nigeria. -PO

I am most delighted to join the Islamic Community In Nigeria and globally in celebrating the Eid-El Maulud! This year’s celebration comes at a time when many of our fellow citizens are enduring severe hardships. Across the country, millions are grappling with the pain of economic challenges, lack of access to basic healthcare, and the distressing reality of countless children being out of school. These challenges weigh heavily on our collective conscience, reminding us of the Herculean work that remains to be done to uplift our people. The teachings of the Prophet—centered on love, compassion, and kindness—offer us the hope and guidance we need in these difficult times. His message calls us to be our brother’s keeper, to show empathy to those in need, and to work together in the spirit of unity. It is through this lens that we must address the inequalities that persist in our society, ensuring that no child is left without an education and no family suffers without access to healthcare. Let us use this occasion to reflect deeply on the values that bind us and renew our commitment to building a Nigeria where every individual, regardless of background or belief, has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can overcome these trying times and create a more just, equitable, and prosperous nation for all. Eid al-Maulud Mubarak! Wishing Muslim families peace, joy, and prosperity. May your prayers bring lasting peace and security to our troubled nation. -PO

Last weekend, I had a packed itinerary that was very tough and challenging from Friday but all ended successfully to the glory of God. It began with my attending the burial in my village of Dr. Isaac Obi, a strong Obidient supporter who was a resident of Minnesota, USA. Thereafter, I attended the burial of someone I consider a dearest brother, who meant so much to me as a great adviser and one of the best human beings I have met in my life—Mr. Alfred Nwosu. After that, I joined other notable people to attend the burial of Pastor Ngozi Mouka, the wife of Pastor Lazarus Mouka, the General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Ministry, in Imo State. On Saturday, I travelled for six and a half hours from Onitsha to Igarra, Akoko-Edo by road, to join our Labour Party governorship candidate for Edo State, Barrister Olumide Akpata, and continued our campaign through Jattu-Uzairue and Auchi. On leaving Auchi around 6 PM, but due to the bad roads, it took us about an hour and a half to reach Ekpoma, where enthusiastic Obidients had been waiting all day. From Ekpoma, it took us about 3 hours to drive to Benin. I must express my sadness because the total journey used to take about 2 hours, but the poor road conditions made it much longer. We encountered over a dozen accidents along the way, and my heart kept bleeding, wondering how we have allowed ourselves to descend so low to a situation where we, the leaders no longer care. Yesterday, Sunday, in Benin City, I joined Barr. Olumide Akpata for two Thanksgiving services: Mass at the Holy Cross Cathedral on Mission Road and a service between 8 am and 12noon. Thereafter, I joined in celebrating His Excellency, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, as he marked his 90th birthday at St. Gabriel the Archangel Cathedral, Benin. My day concluded with the Communities Union Cultural Festival, where we celebrated the unity and heritage of the state. These engagements reflect our collective commitment to a better Nigeria that cares for everyone. They reaffirm once again the beauty and unity of our nation. -PO

As we join the global community to commemorate International Democracy Day today, we remind ourselves, as a nation, of the need to uphold the tenets of democracy. These include free speech, observance of civil liberties and the rule of law. It also includes the upholding of the ideals of democracy that are embedded in ensuring accountable institutions and the protection and promotion of human rights. Democracy in Nigeria has continued to suffer untold setbacks, heavily burdened by leadership failure which has brought about uncontrolled systemic corruption, high levels of insecurity, lack of freedom of speech, increasing poverty and unprecedented levels of hunger and hardship, These problems have not only remained unsolved but are growing geometrically. The democratic ideals of the nation have, sadly, continued to erode with time, and today, we can be classified as a captured state where the citizens have continued to suffer untold hardship, deprivation and insecurity while the political leadership feasts on state resources . In every measurement of true democracy, we have continued to rank low and perform badly, signalling a critical deficiency in our democratic system. With a democracy index score of 4.23, Nigeria ranks low on the Global Democracy Index, and in other indices of democracy. In the Corruption Perception Index, we are ranked 145th among the 180 countries measured, showing a high level of corruption in Nigeria. In Rule of Law Measurement, we are ranked 120 out of 142 countries measured in the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index, showing that Nigeria suffers from gross disobedience to the rule of law. The 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) described Nigeria as one of West Africa's most dangerous and difficult countries for journalists. Freedom of speech is grossly suppressed and citizens are gagged from expressing their civic rights. On a day like this, may we pause and examine our democratic journey as a nation and strive to build our nation on the solid rock of true democracy where every Nigerian is given a voice and a fair hearing, irrespective of tribe, religion or political affiliation. This remains our commitment to the New Nigeria, and it is POssible. -PO

I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV. In that interview, I took the opportunity it provided to explain my position in detail. However, some fifth columnists have resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative. Let me reiterate clearly what I said, which is on record. I do not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges. When I was asked about collaboration, I explicitly stated my openness to working with others, provided their intentions were not centred on state capture. I emphasized my commitment to partnering with those who share my vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress. I also made it clear that I remain committed to the Labour Party, and if anyone wishes to negotiate or join forces, they must disclose their true intentions. As I have always maintained, I am not desperate to become president, but I am determined to see Nigeria work. Likewise, I am not desperate for any position at all as I believe I can make contributions as I am already doing without occupying any. When 2027 arrives, if I decide to run for any office, it will not be with those whose sole aim is state capture or merely winning an election. I want them to explain how we will ensure that no child is left behind and how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living and pull people out of poverty. My statement was unequivocal, and I am genuinely surprised by the misrepresentation of my words. For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone and it's unequivocal. I have consistently maintained that I am open to working with those committed to building a new Nigeria. My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I even believe it is possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office as I am already doing. -PO

I am disheartened by the sad news reports of a fatal road accident which occurred at a local market in the Abagana Community of Anambra State, where some lives, were lost, and others injured. I encourage the Road Safety Commission to remain firm in implementing road safety measures and ensure that road users strictly obey road traffic rules and regulations. I sincerely condole with the families who have lost loved ones, and pray for the quick recovery of those injured. -PO