The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • ‘Oborevwori committed to sustaining peace in Delta’

    ‘Oborevwori committed to sustaining peace in Delta’

    The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Projects and Policies, Olisa Ifeajika, has reaffirmed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remains firmly committed to sustaining the peace Delta State has enjoyed for over two decades.

    Speaking on Thursday on “The Faculty”, a programme aired on Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba, Ifeajika recalled the violent crisis that engulfed Warri between the Ijaws and Itsekiris from 1997 to 1999, describing it as a dark period that left bitter memories.

    “We have been enjoying peace in the state since those turbulent years when the Ijaws and Itsekiris were at daggers drawn. The enmity was terrible, but today, God intervened, and we now have peace,” he said.

    He explained that Governor Oborevwori, who grew up in Warri and witnessed the conflict first-hand, had consistently emphasised the need to preserve peace, noting that no responsible leader would allow such hostilities to return.

    Read Also: Oborevwori, Nwoko mourn Oscar Ibru

    “When the Governor spoke, he spoke like an insider, like a son of the soil. His message was clear: for as long as he remains in office, there will be no war. What he wants today is peace because war is not good and nobody should preach it,” Ifeajika stated.

    He stressed that the Governor’s recent comments on peace were unfortunately misconstrued and twisted out of context by mischief-makers.

    “The Governor was only cautioning that since we have had enough crises in the past, we should now focus on peace and development. His appeal was that if the state can sustain peace till 2031, successive leaders will be encouraged to ensure such fighting never happens again,” he added.

    Ifeajika urged all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and development-oriented conversations rather than stoking division, insisting that peace must continue to endure in the Delta for progress to thrive.

    He further said, “As His Excellency has stated, we cannot compromise on sustainable peace in Warri. That is why he spoke in a language that we all understand.

    “His statement cannot be misinterpreted to mean that the people of Warri can fight after his term. Our people must continue to live as one because no meaningful development can occur without peace.”

  • Dafinone raises the alarm over child abductions in Delta community

    Dafinone raises the alarm over child abductions in Delta community

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has raised alarm over what he described as the “disturbing wave of child abductions” in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, calling on security agencies to redouble efforts to curb the menace while urging residents to resist jungle justice.

    In a statement on Thursday, the lawmaker said over six children aged between three and ten have gone missing in the community in recent months, sparking fear, protests, and violent reprisals. 

    “Reports show that in recent months, more than six children—many between the ages of three and ten—have gone missing, leaving families devastated and the community in fear,” he said.

    He linked the crisis to a surge in incidents earlier in June when four disappearances were recorded, which later prompted women’s protests on September 16. 

    The tension boiled over on September 24 when an angry mob lynched a woman accused of attempted child abduction.

     “While the community’s frustration is understandable, such acts of jungle justice only deepen the crisis and risk innocent lives,” Dafinone warned.

    To the bereaved families, the Senator extended solidarity and empathy. “Your pain is our collective burden, and I pledge to continue pressing for answers and justice at the highest levels of government. Every missing child is a future we cannot afford to lose, and I will not relent until they are found and safety is restored,” he assured.

    Dafinone specifically tasked the Delta Police Command, Ughelli Area Command, and federal agencies to “intensify investigations, strengthen patrols, and work closely with NAPTIP to dismantle any networks behind these abductions—whether ritual or trafficking-related.” He also urged Agbarho’s traditional leadership, led by the Ovie, to reinforce vigilance through neighbourhood watches, school partnerships, and parental awareness.

    Calling for calm, the Senator concluded: “Let us resist jungle justice and instead channel our anger into unity, vigilance, and cooperation with law enforcement. Together, we will overcome this menace and restore peace to Agbarho, Ughelli North, and our beloved Delta State.”

  • Okumagba mourns Oskar Ibru

    Okumagba mourns Oskar Ibru

    Prominent leader of the APC in Delta State Olorogun Bernard Okumagba, has commiserated with the Ibru family and the people of Agbarha-Otor Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State on the passing of Olorogun Oskar Ibru, the first son of the late patriarch of the Ibru family, Olorogun Michael Ibru. 

    Describing the late Olorogun Oskar Ibru as “an astute businessman, a dependable friend, brother and a gentleman par excellence”, Olorogun Okumagba said his passing is an irreparable loss.

    According to the former Commissioner of Finance: “Olorogun Oskar Ibru was a major pillar of the renowned Ibru Organisation founded by his father, Olorogun Michael Ibru, and which is one of Nigeria’s most prominent indigenous conglomerate for many years with interest covering manufacturing, banking, shipping, hospitality services and more. He was the Chairman of the Ibru Organisation where he played a key leadership role as a visionary entrepreneur, succeeding his father in leading the group. I recall my several interactions with the late Oskar Ibru in business and as a friend / brother and valued his counsel and company greatly.”

    Noting that the footprints of the departed business mogul will remain indelible, Okumagba said Oskar took over the reins of the Ibru Organisation from his father and sustained the legacy of the business and the family’s proud name till his passing. 

    He also commended the late Oskar Ibru’s “great and remarkable philanthropy which sealed his legacy as a man with a heart of human kindness, who will be sorely missed.”

    Okumagba hailed Oskar Ibru’s great sense of community which endeared him to the Urhobo nation and said that he will be greatly missed by one and all. He also noted that Oskar related warmly with persons from all tribes in Nigeria and across the world. Okumagba commiserated with the people of Agbarha- Otor, the Urhobo nation, Delta State and Nigeria on the loss of “a great and pleasant personality.”

    Okumagba prayed that God grants the soul of Oskar Ibru eternal rest and comfort his family, friends and associates.

  • Ateke Tom: I joined Niger Delta agitation to expose region’s plight

    Ateke Tom: I joined Niger Delta agitation to expose region’s plight

    …King receives ECOWAS lawmakers

    The King of Okochiri in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Royal Majesty King Michael Ateke Tom, has said he actively participated in the Niger Delta agitation to draw the attention of the federal government and the international community to the suffering of his people.

    The monarch made this known on Wednesday while receiving members of the ECOWAS Parliament at his palace in Okochiri.

    The parliamentarians were in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, for the 2nd Extraordinary Parliamentary Session on “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance, and Development in the ECOWAS Region.”

    In a statement issued by his Media Assistant, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, King Ateke Tom explained that his involvement in the struggle was driven by the deplorable conditions in the oil-rich region.

    He said, “My intention was to draw the attention of the Federal Government and the world to the plight of the Niger Delta, a region that produces oil and gas yet suffers the most.

    “The agitation brought the Federal Government’s focus to our challenges. It was that same movement that created the opportunity where our people were remembered, like Goodluck Jonathan could emerge as President.

    “I wanted the Federal Government to truly see what was happening here, the pollution, the poverty, the suffering of our people amidst the wealth generated from oil exploration.

    “Eventually, the government responded, and I was among those who helped to broker peace. I appealed to the agitators to lay down their arms and give peace a chance, and many did. Today, we are seeing the results of that peace.”

    The king appealed to the ECOWAS Parliament to use its platform to advocate for continued support and development of the Niger Delta.

    He said, “We appreciate what the government has done so far, but there’s still a long way to go to lift our people out of poverty. I urge you to include this in your legislative considerations.”

    The king expressed his readiness to work with the Federal Government to tackle insecurity across the country.

    “As a traditional ruler, I am not a politician. I’m ready to contribute my experience to efforts aimed at restoring peace and security in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole”, he said

    Speaking on behalf of the parliamentarian, Dr. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, the National Assembly member representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency and Nigeria’s representative in the ECOWAS Parliament, expressed appreciation to the King.

    He said that the visit was aimed at learning from the King’s experience to consolidate peace in the Niger Delta.

     Abiante said, “We are here to engage with you and seek insights on how the peace in the Niger Delta can be further strengthened, which will guide our legislative work at the ECOWAS Parliament.

    In her remarks, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, commended the King for his role in achieving peace in the region.

    She said, “We are honoured to be with you and learn from your leadership. Your efforts in ensuring peace in the Niger Delta are commendable and provide valuable lessons for the broader ECOWAS region.”

    The Third Deputy Speaker, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, said that the King’s reputation preceded him, especially among former agitators who had undergone training in Ghana.

     He said, “We have heard many positive things about your contributions to peace and development. That’s why we insisted on visiting your palace while in Rivers State.’

    The Fourth Deputy Speaker, Billay Tunkara, urged the king to share his insights with the Federal Government, saying they could help significantly in addressing security challenges across the country.

  • Ejinyere’s two years of impactful leadership at WUEDA

    Ejinyere’s two years of impactful leadership at WUEDA

    Hon. Prince Godwin Eguriase Ejinyere, Director General of the Warri/Uvwie and Environs Special Area Development Agency (WUEDA), has in just two years demonstrated purposeful leadership anchored on vision, action, and service. A strong advocate of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. Agenda, Ejinyere has become a key driver in the push to restore Warri, Uvwie, and the surrounding areas as Delta State’s economic hub.

    With a background spanning over a decade as an engineer at Chevron Nigeria Ltd, a former Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council, and the immediate past Executive Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Ejinyere has consistently combined competence and experience with a passion for service. This wealth of administrative and professional grounding now defines his work at WUEDA, where he oversees strategic development initiatives across Delta’s urban centers.

    True to leadership expert Warren Bennis’ words that “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality,” Ejinyere has not only embraced Governor Oborevwori’s vision but has also translated it into tangible infrastructure projects that directly impact communities.

    One of WUEDA’s most notable interventions under Ejinyere is the aggressive flood control programme in Effurun/Warri (Phase III) and around Warri Stadium. These projects have eased a decades-long challenge, safeguarding homes and businesses while restoring public confidence in government efforts.

    In addition, Ejinyere has overseen the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and construction of several strategic roads across Warri South and Uvwie. From the NNPC Housing Complex Road and Ugboroke Housing Estate internal roads to Aya Street in Effurun, Ajuyah Street in Warri, and Edukugho Street off Iyara Road, his imprint is visible in projects that are reshaping urban mobility, easing traffic congestion, and boosting economic activity.

    WUEDA

    Notable Completed and Ongoing Projects Include: Flood Control Measures in Effurun/Warri and Environs (Phase III), Uvwie and Warri South LGAs; Flood Control Measures in Warri Stadium and Environs; Rehabilitation/Asphalt Overlay of Princess Abaje/Mike Dottie/Isaac Botosan & Creekview Layout Road, Ugbuwangue; Construction of Ogbe Avenue Road Extension, Effurun; Reconstruction of Aya Street by Praise Center, Effurun; Asphalt Overlay of Ugboroke Housing Estate Internal Roads, Uvwie; Widening of NNPC Housing Complex Road and overlay of Ekpan Link Road, Uvwie; Construction of Akekere, Ajuyah, Akpiri/Ebrawinoro, and Onokewe Streets in Warri and Effurun; Rehabilitation and Asphalt Overlay of Efejuku Road, Deco Road, Warri; Rehabilitation of Edukugho and Etuwewe Roads, Warri South.

    These projects, spread across multiple communities, underline Ejinyere’s commitment to improving lives through infrastructure renewal. Beyond concrete and asphalt, they represent improved livelihoods, restored investor confidence, and renewed urban aesthetics.

    Though just two years into his tenure, Ejinyere’s stewardship at WUEDA signals a brighter future for Warri, Uvwie, and environs. His dedication to Governor Oborevwori’s development agenda continues to drive transformation, proving that leadership is measured not by position but by results.

    As Warri, Uvwie, and environs continue their journey back to becoming the economic pride of Delta State, one name will stand tall in the chronicles of this rebirth, Hon. Prince Godwin Eguriase Ejinyere, noble Prince of Okpe Kingdom, who has proven that leadership, indeed, is action and not a position.

  • Foundation preaches peace, tolerance, respect among youths in Niger Delta

    Foundation preaches peace, tolerance, respect among youths in Niger Delta

    The Boyloaf Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation, has called for the promotion of peace and values of tolerance, respect, and empathy among the youths in the Niger Delta, especially the boy child.

    The foundation, dedicated to non-violent advocacy and the protection of the boy child, in partnership with Miss Peace Organisation and with the support of the Bayelsa State Government, brought children and other stakeholders together to celebrate the International Day of Peace with a theme, “Little Hands Big Dreams”.

    The children showcased their talents in arts, poetry, speech-making, Afro dance, drama, catwalk for peace, paintings, music, among others.

    The event, which brought various young people from secondary schools, Boys Brigade, and other youth organisations, was part of the activities of the foundation to advocate sustainable peace and to take a collective stance against crime and violence.

    In his keynote address, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, commended the foundation, saying the event would promote peace in the region.

    He extolled the contributions of Victor-Ben Ebikabowei, popularly known as “General Boyloaf” and owner of the foundation, in the enthronement of peace in the Niger Delta.

    Read Also: Verification of disputed oil, gas fields in Niger Delta kicks off

    Kemepado advised young people to shun violence and embrace peace and, more importantly, remain focused on pursuing their dreams.

    He said that the Bayelsa State Government would soon launch a comprehensive youth policy designed to encourage active participation of youths in community development, governance, and decision-making processes.

    “We aim to foster a sense of civic responsibility and leadership among young people”, Kemepado said.

    In her welcome address, the Miss Peace Niger Delta, Miss Ockiya Ayibanengimote, highlighted the roles of parents in instilling values in their children.

    “If our children grow up learning to tolerate differences, respect others, and show empathy, then we are raising a generation that will not only desire peace but also know how to protect it, he said.

    The Director-General, Bayelsa State Centre for Youth Development, commended the Boyloaf Foundation for its consistency in peace advocacy and human development.

    He said the vision of the foundation was in line with the Prosperity Administration Governor Douye Diri’s policy of inclusion, building trust, and creating opportunities for people to leave harmoniously.

    He said embracing dialogue, reconciliation, and non-violent approaches to resolve disputes and prioritising youth empowerment remained the key to sustainable peace.

    In his vote of thanks, the Coordinator of the event, Mr Seleipre Tonbie, recalled the courage of General Boyloaf on the 6th of August 2009 to lead 31 commanders of the then Movement for Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) to Abuja to seal the Amnesty deal that restored peace in the Niger Delta.

    He recalled that at the meeting, Boyloaf said:  ‘’If the government refuses to develop the region and continue in marginalization and injustices, the youths coming after us will be more brutal than us.

    He said it was in response to this looming danger that gave birth to the Boyloaf Foundation and the Boy Child Project.

    Tonbie said, “Boyloaf’s bold decision to step away from violence and embrace peace inspired many others. This act of reconciliation has been immortalized in cultural consciousness and even reflected in Barrister Smooth’s song ‘Amnesty’ and in Burna Boy’s song ‘Monsters you made’ featuring Chris Martins.

    “These events led to the establishment of the presidential Amnesty programme, and one of the programmes of the PAP is the scholarship scheme for impacted communities.

    “A window of opportunity has presented itself to the people of our region via the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and it calls for restructuring of the process, to enable thousands of our people to benefit from the scheme.”

    Tonbie thanked the stakeholders, students, youth organisations, Dr Joan Filatei, founder of the Children Development Foundation, and Z Okoya Ogoniba, CEO of Events by Ozee, Moses Marlon, and Aze Dickson for attending the event and appreciated the support of the Bayelsa State Government.

    The PGR Entertainment Theatre for education project featured a dance drama, the Orupabo cultural display, which highlighted a message of hope and a peaceful world using dance and drama.

    The event also featured a catwalk for peace by Finnie Couture, which added elegance and style to the programme.

  • Oborevwori urges peace, unity in Warri, warns against social media incitement

    Oborevwori urges peace, unity in Warri, warns against social media incitement

    Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on leaders and elders of Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to shun divisive tendencies and embrace peace.

    He said that unity remains the only path to sustainable development in Warri and Delta State at large.

    Speaking at the funeral service of the late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri, the Governor warned against the misuse of social media to fuel the crisis and spread falsehood.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Warri, noting that as governor, he would not take sides but serve the interests of all Deltans.

    “In all, what we need is unity. I have witnessed a crisis and I know its consequences. People are using social media to cause problems; this must stop. I want to develop Warri because this is my home, and some of the young people today have not enjoyed the Warri we experienced back then,” Oborevwori said.

    Recalling his personal experience during a past crisis, he revealed that his father’s house in Igoruwe was spared from destruction simply because it bore the inscription, ‘Sheriff Papa House’, while neighbouring homes were razed.

    He described the incident as a lesson on the devastating impact of conflict on communities.

    The Governor, who declared “Warri dey sweet me for body,” emphasized his deep connection to the city, adding that he has no other home outside Warri.

    “I am a man with street credibility and local content, not from the diaspora. Now that I am Governor, I am a Governor for all, and I will not take sides,” he stressed.

    Read Also: NGO tasks Oborevwori on enactment of Whistleblower Protection Bill 2024

    Oborevwori reaffirmed his resolve to fast-track development across the state, assuring that he would not disappoint Deltans.

    “I want to do more for Deltans. I don’t want to fail. I will continue to show love to the people and deep respect for our leaders,” he added.

    He urged critics to exercise restraint, particularly those outside the state who attempt to sow seeds of discord.

    He also called on parents and guardians to caution their children against misusing social media for hate campaigns.

     Paying tribute to the late Mrs. Agbolayah, the Governor described her as a shining example of faith, integrity, and commitment to family.

    “Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a bishop. My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.

    Earlier, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, Primate of the African Church, in a sermon titled “Fight a Good Fight” from II Timothy 4:7, urged Christians to live as beacons of peace and integrity in a world filled with darkness.

    He admonished believers to be nation-builders, steadfast in faith, and accountable to God.

    The funeral service was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the State Executive Council, and other top government functionaries.

  • First Lady, Delta governor’s wife lifts 1,000 Delta traders with N50m grant

    First Lady, Delta governor’s wife lifts 1,000 Delta traders with N50m grant

    …as Senator Tinubu commends Elumelu’s foundation over N1bn donation

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), on Friday launched the Women Economic Empowerment Programme in Asaba, Delta State, to boost the entrepreneurial capacities of women.

    Represented by Delta State First Lady and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation (YMCF), Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, Mrs. Tinubu noted that the programme recognises the crucial role women play as traders and small business owners in driving economic growth and supporting families.

    At the event, 500 beneficiaries received N50,000 each from RHI, while another 500 women got the same amount from YMCF, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 1,000.

    Senator Tinubu explained that the funds, unlike loans, are non-repayable grants designed to help women recapitalise and expand their businesses without the burden of repayment.

    Backed by a N1 billion donation from the Tony Elumelu Foundation, the initiative targets 18,500 women nationwide, with 500 women in each of the 36 states and the FCT expected to benefit.

    She said the programme underscores confidence in the potential of women-led businesses to drive sustainable economic progress across the country.

    The First Lady said that by reinforcing the existing businesses of these women, the programme aims not only to provide immediate financial aid but also to foster long-term economic stability and community development.

    She highlighted that this initiative reflects a strong commitment to gender equality and economic empowerment, positioning women as crucial stakeholders in the nation’s development journey.

    Read Also: First Lady mourns victims of Afriland Towers fire

    Senator Tinubu highlighted, “I am delighted to be here to flag off the Women Economic Empowerment Programme of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in conjunction with the Tony Elumelu Foundation in Delta State.

    “This economic empowerment programme is about supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of our women traders and small-scale business owners who wake up each day determined to provide for their families, educate their children, and uplift their communities.

    “Let me emphasize that this is not a loan. It is a grant and a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalize your existing businesses. It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation.

    “I thank the TEF, which donated N1b to the RHI, to directly support 18,500 women across the nation. Five hundred women from each of the 36 states and the FCT will be receiving N50,000 each to strengthen and recapitalize their existing small businesses.

    “I will be presenting the sum of N50,000 each to some of the pre-selected 500 beneficiaries at this event today. I thank the Tony Elumelu Foundation once again for this support. May this act of generosity inspire many more across our nation.”

    The First Lady also thanked the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Sheriff Oborevwori, and his amiable wife, Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for all their support in executing all the programmes of the RHI.

    “At this juncture, to the glory of God, I hereby flag off the Renewed Hope Initiative/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme for the benefit of the good people of this State,” she stated.

    Reading the address of the First Lady of Delta State, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori at the event, the wife of the state Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ezinne Catherine Onyeme, said the beneficiaries were carefully selected for the programme.

    Mrs Oborevwori said the selection reflected inclusivity, which is in line with the Renewed Hope Initiative.

    She urged the beneficiaries to use the grants wisely and assist their families to become pillars of strength.

    The governor’s wife further urged them to build a Delta State and nation where peace and unity are renewed for all.

  • Ex-Militants back Tompolo’s door-to-door campaign ahead of 2027

    Ex-Militants back Tompolo’s door-to-door campaign ahead of 2027

    Ex-militants from Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, and Ondo states have declared their support for the recently launched President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) Door-to-Door Campaign spearheaded by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

    The ex-militants, who pledged to campaign and vote in line with Tompolo’s directives, made the declaration in Benin City during the inauguration of the national executives of Phase 3 of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), led by General Godstime Ogidigba.

    They also vowed to continue supporting security agencies and Tantita Security Services Limited in maintaining peace across the Niger Delta region.

    Speaking at the event, General Ogidigba assured that Phase 3 members would contribute to sustaining Nigeria’s oil production and pledged to unite aggrieved members under the programme.

    He further commended the Administrator of the PAP, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, describing him as the best administrator to have led the scheme. According to him, Otuaro restored several benefits previously denied to ex-agitators since assuming office.

    He said, “As ex-agitators, our loyalty is to Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, because what we are benefiting today is because of his steadfastness, persistence, and consistency. And I want to make it clear that we are joining Tompolo’s door-to-door campaign to make sure Tinubu returns to the Villa.

    Read Also: Kemepadei, Tompolo, PAP coordinator launch voter sensitisation, empowerment drive in Niger Delta

    “We are also poised to work with Tompolo’s Tantita Security outfit to protect our oil infrastructure from oil thieves. We will support Tompolo by reaching out to some of our brothers who are still interested in doing some scanty bunkering because most of the people bursting the pipeline here, and some people were not captured during the amnesty program.

    “I know many of them who surrender their arms and were not documented got angry and resort to bunkering because they see it as their national cake. Over time, I have been talking to them, and they said nothing is coming to them. Now that I am the National Chairman, it will be easy for me to tell them that a new dawn has come and our father Tompolo has changed things.

    “Since Tompolo’s Tantita took over, the production of oil has increased, and sometimes we beat OPEC quarter, but that does not mean we have a hundred percent security in the area of pipeline”.

    Other members of the Phase Three. Amnesty national executives are Gen. Godwin Governor, Gen.Akpos Jericho, Gen Oyin Bolowei, Gen. Eniyekenimi, Gen Francis Akpohoro, Gen. Don Oney, Gen. Biboye Wilberforce, and Gen. Jokpa Emovon.

  • Delta dress code: Lawyer urges Delta NLC to provide alternative, lauds Govt

    Delta dress code: Lawyer urges Delta NLC to provide alternative, lauds Govt

    Notable Rights lawyer in Delta state, Ikimi Oghenejabor has called on the Delta State Chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), to proffer solutions to the government’s review of civil servants dressing.

    Ikimi, during a telephone conversation with The Nation in Warri, Sunday, affirmed that the state government was on track to ensure discipline among its workers.

    He said the state government, as employer, should dictate how its employees ought to dress and not the other way round, flaying comments attributed to the State NLC chairman, Comrade Goodluck Ofoburuku.

    According to reports, Ofoburuku had said the Union was not consulted before the State Government issued the directive to workers, and workers were not well paid enough to afford suits and other dress codes handed down, given the tough economic times.

    He further assured workers that anyone found culpable by the government would be protected by the NLC.

    But Ikimi insisted that the union should provide solutions, maintaining that the directive bore no infringement on the fundamental human rights of the workers.

    Ikimi said: “The state government is the employer of labour, there is nothing wrong with what the government is doing. I support it. It is just to instill discipline into the civil service. The employer of Labour is saying this is how I want you to dress. This is what we had in those days. In public service, there was always this dress code we grew up to know, this shirt and tie, so also is the women. These long nails and growing of beard and painting of hair, these are not known to the conservative civil service we inherited from the British people. 

    Read Also: PAPBEF applauds Otuaro as 140 Niger Delta scholars depart for UK postgraduate studies

    “So if the governmeny says they want to maintain standard, they want to maintain discipline, I support it. You see the way improper dressing is in the society, it has eaten deep into the civil service.

    “A state or a country where there is lawlessness, if you try to be law-abiding, it is regarded as lawlessness, so this lawlessness in the civil service has taken years and has grown. If the state government is trying to remove improper dressing, and people are looking at it as unlawful, it is not unlawful. 

    “What the State Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is doing, it is not trying to protect the workers. They cannot tell me they don’t have money to sew a clean suit, buy a clean shirt and tie and trousers. That Government should provide money for them to do this, and that is wrong. The NLC should wake up and do the right thing. I have not seen the solution they have brought up to address the improper dressing in the civil service. They are only saying they were not consulted. Now that you know, what is the solution to improper dressing?”