The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Rivers Community Protests oil spill, devastation

    Rivers Community Protests oil spill, devastation

    …demands compensation from Shell

    …seeks environmental justice, clean up

    The people of Ogale community in Eleme local government of Rivers State have staged a protest over oil spills in their community.

    They peaceful protest was also held in solidarity to their ongoing legal battle against the Anglo Dutch multinational company, the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), in London, the United Kingdom.

    The protesters, comprising chief, men, women, and youths numbering over thousands, claded in black and black attire to demonstrate their mood.

    The exercise was held at Shell facility in the community where unprecedented oil spill occurred two weeks ago.

    Speaking to news men at the protest venue, the representaives of the chiefs, women, youths and Right Activists present at the exercise decried high environmental, emotional, health, and social devastation the community have suffered due to incesaant spill and their consequential damages.

    Speaker after speakers reeled out mirald of challenges the community and her people have faced as consequencies of the spill, which include hardship, poverty, sickness, hunger, infertility as well as stunted growth on their children.

    They demanded that compensation, adqyate health audit to be conducted on the people of Ogale community and proper cleanup of the area to 3nable them get back to their farming and fishing jobs.

    “Shell should pay due compensation to Ogale people. There should be adequate health audit for Ogale people to ascertain the level of damage done to our system and how medical treatment can be enforced. They should give us clean water.”

    Earlier, some of the women who spoke to newsmen said, “When we fetch water from our rivers to drink, you will see oil floating on the water. Since we have no option, we still drink it, thereby consuming what is killing us gradually. We’re here to call on the world to come to our rescue, call Shell to order to clean up our environment to rsatore our land.”

    Some others lamented destruction of the ecosystem, natiral lives the community survives on, including farmlands and their products, acquatic lives among other.

    “We’re indigenes of Ogale community, we’re not happy over what is happening in our community, Shell has destroyed everything in our land, we have no good water to drink and do our daily chores, no more airable soil to cultivate our foods, neither do we have water to fish on.

    “We’re basically farmers and fishermen/women, we used to feed well look and live healthy when our environments had not known crude oil devastation, but the reserve is now the case, we now starve and suffer in hardship, hunger and sickness, we want Shell to compensate us and clean our land so we can go back to our normal healthy living.”they said.

    Addresding a news conference at the venue, an Environmental Activist, Celestine Akpobari, an Ogoni indigene criticized the neglect by the Federal Government and Shell to the plights of oil host communities in the Niger Delta Region, Ogoni in genetal and Ogale in particular, and called for declaration of State of emergency on the community.

    said, “Ogale people are gathered here because today, a hearing in a case instituted by 13,000 farmers against Shell in a London court is starting today and it will run until March 10, 2023.

    “They are here in solidarity with their king that is already in London. Human rights groups in UK is also doing same solidarity march in London, as we speak now.

    “They are here to say enough is enough, that they have suffered so much, that justice should be served.

    “As you are aware if you are living in this part of life, on January 2, 2025, there was a major spill from this manifold belonging to Shell.

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    “Incidentally, this is the first time Shell accepted that the falt was theirs; because they were flushing oil from their saver pit and that overflowed and took over the whole community, till today, people have not recovered from effects of the spill.

    “Ogale people are saying enough is enough, they locked up their shops today, nobody went to the farm, they all gathered here in solidarity with their king.

    “They are demanding that Shell should pay adequate compensation for loss of livelihoods, for damages caused by the spillages. Benzene, a cancer causing substance is in their water.

    “The people are suffering from various health challenges because of the polluted environment.

    “Things are terribly bad here, I think government should declare State of Emergency in Ogale, to come and relocate people that are here, clean up their land, restore natural habitats there, before returning them back.”

    Speaking on behalf of the youths, the President of Ogale Youths, Noble Obari-Worlu said, “today is a day that the whole indigenes and non-indigenes of Ogale have set aside to come and make their voices known that we have suffered a lot when it comes to oil exploration.

    “We have suffered enough in the hands of Shell that’s why you can see the mammoth crowd here today. Nobody went to farm, nobody went to market,.all shops are closed, everybody in the community is here today as a sign of solidarity to speak to the whole world that Ogale people have suffered a lot,
    we are dying of strange illnesses, we are suffering spillage on monthly basis.

    “The last one was just last week in this same facility that we are standing. We are suffering from different kinds of illnesses we don’t know.

    “When’s will the spillage stop, when will Ogale people get justice, when will Ogale people get clean water to drink, because Shell has contaminated our ground water.”

    Also the President of Ogoni Peoples Assembly(OPA), Pobel William agitated for clean environment devoid of pollution and its consequential health implications.

    William said, “our women, sons and daughters rashes all over their body, we say no.

    “We say no to oil spillage, cancer, hunger, intimely deaths, environmental injustice…

    “We refuse it that the blessing in our land will turn to curses…., among others.

  • Edo election: Why no party benefitted from over-voting

    Edo election: Why no party benefitted from over-voting

    By John Mayaki

      The recent testimonies before the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal have provided critical insights into the conduct of the election, particularly regarding incidents of over-voting.

      Witnesses, including collation and polling agents from various political parties, have corroborated a singular fact: whenever over-voting was detected, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) took decisive action by canceling the affected results. This meticulous decision of the electoral umpire is commendable – being a commitment to upholding electoral integrity and ensuring that no political party derived undue advantage from irregularities.

      From Esan North East to Akoko Edo, Oredo, and Owan West, testimonies from party agents and independent monitors consistently indicate that INEC enforced strict adherence to its electoral guidelines. Afuda Theophilus Idemudia, who monitored the election in Esan North East, confirmed that despite the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) agent signing the election results, the discovery of over-voting led to their outright cancellation. This immediate nullification of compromised results prevented any party from unfairly benefiting from electoral discrepancies.

      Similarly, in Oredo LGA, the APC’s Collation Agent, Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, testified that no political party raised objections to the election’s conduct. However, when over-voting was detected in Polling Unit 8, Ward 10, INEC officials invalidated the results at the Ward Collation Center. This proactive measure reinforces the fact that over-voting was addressed impartially, irrespective of the political party involved.

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      The testimonies of these witnesses has further thrown more light on the unusual but significant aspect of the election: broad agreement among political parties on the fairness of INEC’s process.

      Hon. Frank David, APC’s Collation Agent for Owan West LGA, confirmed that neither he nor any other party agent – including those representing PDP and Labour Party – contested the final results. The fact that agents from opposing political parties signed off on the result sheets is a strong endorsement of the credibility of INEC’s collation process.

      Moreover, Kamarudeen Coker Bello, the APC’s Local Government agent in Akoko Edo, corroborated that election results were canceled in cases where over-voting was detected, reinforcing the non-partisan application of electoral rules. These cancellations ensured that no party, including the then ruling led by former Governor Godwin Obaseki or the then opposition APC, gained an unfair advantage due to compromised vote counts.

      The consistent and non-discriminatory approach taken by INEC in invalidating results affected by over-voting simply speaks to institutional safeguards against electoral fraud. The electoral body’s reliance on the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) has further strengthened the transparency of the process, making it easier to detect and rectify irregularities. In this election, over-voting did not translate into a gain for any party, as INEC ensured that all such cases were expunged from the final vote tally.

      Let me add that, the absence of formal complaints from party agents at the collation centers demonstrates a level of consensus rarely seen in contentious elections. It suggests that the process was conducted in a manner that inspired confidence among stakeholders, reinforcing public trust in the electoral system.

      The testimonies before the tribunal have painted a clear picture of an election where INEC upheld its mandate to conduct a free, fair, and credible process. By systematically identifying and canceling results tainted by over-voting, INEC ensured that no political party unfairly benefited from irregularities. The absence of complaints from party agents at critical collation points, coupled with their willingness to sign off on final results, further affirms the credibility of the process that led to the victory of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the governor of Edo state.

      While electoral systems are never perfect, the Edo election stands as a case study in how an electoral body can mitigate irregularities without partisan bias. The tribunal proceedings have, if anything, reinforced the fact that the election’s outcome was determined not by electoral fraud but by the democratic will of the people.

    • Why nobody can ban tradition

      Why nobody can ban tradition

      By HRH Dr. Sunday Azavonya Otaru (JP)

      The attention of the Eziobe Traditional Council of Igarra has been drawn to a voiceless online video and some publications in the media that Otaru Adeche Saiki purportedly suspended the annual Ekuochi Festivals of Igarra because of a clash between the supporters of two Ekuechichi masquerades during this year’s edition of the festival. 

      The Eziobe Traditional Council of Igarra, currently under my chairmanship as His Royal Highness, The Oshemdase of Igarra, hereby clarifies to the entire public that Igarra has five  traditional heads all of whom have coordinate status and authority by Igarra ancestral tradition and custom, and they are;  The Oshemdase Ooreyin of Igarra, the Oshidu of Igarra, the Otu of Igarra, the Oshemi of Igarra and the Otaru of Igarra. 

      The native festivals of Igarra are of two categories namely, the custodial and non-custodial. 

      A custodial festival in Igarra is that which is entirely owned and controlled by a particular clan or group of clans under one of the aforementioned traditional heads hence only that head may ban or suspend the custodial festival owned and controlled by his clan.   Examples of custodial festivals are Aba, Arido, Ochionine, Afuofu, etc. 

      A non-custodial festival in Igarra is that which is not under the control or ownership of any particular clan but celebrated by groups or individuals at anytime of the year and for any purpose for which they may wish to do so, and therefore need no permission from anyone by Igarra ancestral custom and tradition. Examples are Echetete, Ekuochi,  Echori, Ekuechichi festivals, Ori, etc. 

      However, when it becomes desirable to ban or suspend a non-custodial festival,  the five aforementioned traditional heads must, on behalf of their respective subjects and representatives of the Opoze Age group all meet, discuss the reasons, facilitate investigations accordingly, and if they find it necessary, unanimously agree to the suggested ban or suspension, and in modern times put it in writing and jointly append their signatures before announcing such to the public for it to be enforceable. 

      In Igarra, Ekuochi Festivals are  non-custodial.  Therefore the decision by any individual or group to celebrate it needs no permission from anyone whosoever. 

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       From the foregoing therefore, none of the aforementioned traditional heads in Igarra has the power to unilaterally suspend or ban any Ekuochi festival being a non-custodial festival in Igarra. 

      In 2004 when a ban of the same Ekuochi Festival was muted, all the above traditional heads of Igarra met, carried out investigations and in the end unanimously agreed to it, put it in writing and jointly signed it. Here is a copy of the document to that effect. 

      Otaru Adeche Saiki’s present attempt to arrogate such powers to himself through videos and publications of him issuing a purported suspension of the festival this time around reeks of an attempt to seek  ostensible and contrived electronic and documentary evidences with the objective to mislead the court before which the suit against the 2003 gazette is currently pending concerning the unresolved Igarra Kingship Dispute. 

      On the 15th of January, 2014,  some youths who tried to celebrate the Ekuechichi festival were attacked with gun shots and sustained bullet wounds by boys who allegedly belong to the five clans loyal to Otaru but Otaru did not issue any such purported ban or suspension obviously because the victims of the gunshots were not of the clans loyal to him.

      To further buttress that Otaru is merely seeking evidence for the ongoing Igarra Kingship Dispute court case and not genuinely concerned about stemming violent tendencies in Igarra, I shall go down memory lane as follows: 

      In 2013,  Okomayin Suru Akpata a very active and prominent politician of the Second, Third and Fourth Republics, got missing from Igarra amidst some background rancour within his group of clans, and has not been found either dead or alive till today. 

      In 2017, Mr. Aiyetobi Uwaishevo too  mysteriously disappeared and has not been found dead or alive till date. 

      But curiously, Otaru Adeche Saiki has never issued an official statement on either of these two incidents despite that both Okomanyi Suru Akpata and Aiyetobi Uwaishevo are loyal to him. 

      It is on record that on January 18, 2021 during the celebrations of Ekuechichi festival, Mr. Larcomb Emah was gruesomely murdered with gunshots. The murder case is still pending at the AIG zone 5, Benin City. Otaru Adeche Saiki did not see the need to consider a suspension of the festival. 

       Rather, some members of the five clans were seen openly celebrating, following the release of the suspects despite overwhelming evidence including eye witnesses. They threw parties which were tagged victory parties during which foods and drinks were shared. Emmanuel Adeche Saiki had no word of caution or reprimand for them. 

      I, the Oshemdase Ooreyin of Igarra, shall on behalf of The Eziobe Traditional Council of Igarra which I currently head, I make it clear to men of the press here present, the security agencies here present, and the general public that the Nine clans which we the four other traditional heads control in Igarra are peace loving and law abiding. Our subjects have never been liable for instigating violence in Igarra. 

      Based on the report of a committee set up by the ETC to investigate the fracas and the remote cause between the  *ONCHERE and SARS masquerades*, the two masquerades are hereby recommended  for suspension for two years, to serve as a deterrent to others.

       All the remaining Ekuechichi masquerades in Uffa and Utua should henceforth be coming out every other day alternately. 

      All the masquerades in Ugbogbo quarters have so far been very peaceful and orderly. So there is no point suspending the festival activities there. 

      Finally and very importantly, the night Ekuochi festivals in  Ugbogbo, Utua and Uffa quarters which started from November 2024 to January 2025 were very peaceful, orderly and entertaining.

      They are free to continue to celebrate the festivals but are admonished to continue to be peaceful and orderly in all their activities.

       In the recent past, some boys from the Eziezu group of clans under Otaru Emmanuel Adeche Saiki’s headship waylaid the convoy of His Royal Highness The Otu of Igarra in 2022 on his way to the venue of his coronation and began to smash the screens of vehicles claiming that only Otaru has the power to install an Otu. This was in spite of an existing court judgement against such a claim. They were however rounded up and apprehended by the police that day. 

      In November 2024,  Otaru Emmanuel Adeche Saiki attempted to ridicule some stools within our Council by  purportedly conferring some of our exclusive titles to some of his loyalists 

      unlawfully. The Igarra Police Area Command can testify that we only reported that illegality to the police and not a single person from our Eziobe group of clans

       went to the venue let alone try to disrupt the illegal event as they would have done if roles were reversed. We only filed a court action against them. 

      The security agencies should note that the Eziobe group of clans make up the majority of Igarra and our superior numerical strength gives us a physical advantage in any combat but as peace loving and law abiding citizens, we do not believe in abusing that numerical strength for violence and provocation because we own custodianship of nearly all the custodial festivals in Igarra thus we own and control the customs and traditions of Igarra, and so we naturally eschew violence because we have everything to lose if Igarra is destroyed as against the others who have no custodianship over any concrete element of our culture.

      *We hereby dissociate ourselves from the purported blanket and unilateral suspension of the festivals* 

       Finally, we advise Otaru Adeche Saiki to desist henceforth from his repeated attempts to preempt the courts with respect to the ongoing suits against the 2003 gazette.

       We call on the Edo State Government to facilitate a comprehensive investigation into the unresolved Igarra Kingship Dispute through a Commission of Inquiry or otherwise towards finding out the truth and making recommendations accordingly.

      Thank you all and God bless.

      HRH Dr. Sunday Azavonya Otaru (JP) is the Oshemdase Ooreyin of Igarra.

    • Land dispute: Abigborodo community asks Sapele Okpe to provide proof of ownership

      Land dispute: Abigborodo community asks Sapele Okpe to provide proof of ownership

      The long-standing land dispute between the Abigborodo and Sapele Okpe communities has taken a dramatic turn with the Abigborodo Community Management Committee challenging the Sapele Okpe leadership to provide concrete evidence of land ownership or desist from making baseless claims.

      In a strongly worded rebuttal to recent statements by Chief Onoriode Temiagin and other leaders of the Sapele Okpe Community, Abigborodo leaders described the allegations against them as “false, misleading and unfounded.”

      The dispute over the ownership of the Ugbekoko lands intensified after Chief Temiagin accused Abigborodo, under the leadership of Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, of document forgery, orchestrating violence and falsely claiming host community status in the operations of SEPLAT Energy Plc. 

      He further alleged that historical documents supporting Abigborodo’s claims were fabrications and that the Itsekiri community was attempting to encroach on Okpe ancestral land.  

      However, in a swift response, Abigborodo leaders rejected these assertions, insisting that their ownership of Ugbekoko is backed by verifiable legal and historical records dating back to the British colonial era. 

      They cited a 1919 lease agreement, petitions from Chief Okonedo to the colonial administration, and other official correspondences, all of which they claim are duly certified by the National Archives. “If Chief Temiagin insists our documents are forged, we challenge him to produce his own evidence of ownership,” the statement read.  

      Furthermore, Abigborodo leaders dismissed allegations that they were behind the recent shooting of a Sapele Okpe indigene, Mr. Patrick Gageche, calling it a desperate attempt to stoke tensions and derail the Delta State Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Committee’s investigation into the matter. 

      According to them, this ”was aimed at inciting public sentiment against Abigborodo and creating an atmosphere of hostility where none should exist.”

      The Abigborodo community also accused Sapele Okpe leaders of orchestrating attacks against its people. 

      They alleged that Okpe youths, acting under directives from Chief Temiagin, mounted illegal roadblocks along Ugberikoko Gana Road, profiling and assaulting travellers of Itsekiri origin.

      They identified Solomon Ayiri Omamogho, Louis Atunu and Stephen Abaje, who reportedly sustained injuries in these attacks and urged security agencies to act swiftly in ensuring justice.  

      Beyond these allegations, Abigborodo leaders reminded the public the ongoing dispute is being handled by the State Government through a special conflict resolution committee led by Chief Edwin Uzor. 

      They noted that they have consistently pursued legal channels, petitioning Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and engaging SEPLAT and relevant government agencies. 

      The community also pointed to a meeting on February 5, 2025 at the Delta State Directorate of State Security Services (DSS) headquarters in Asaba, where all parties, including representatives of Sapele Okpe, agreed to abide by the state government’s white paper on the matter. 

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      Key resolutions included a commitment to peace and a pledge to allow the Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Committee to complete its investigation without undue interference.  

      However, despite these resolutions, Abigborodo leaders accused Chief Temiagin of violating the peace accord by continuing to make inflammatory statements online and in the media. 

      They warned that his actions could be subject to defamation and cyberbullying laws, stating, “Freedom of speech is not a license to spread falsehoods. Chief Temiagin must be prepared to prove his allegations in a court of law”  

      As tensions continue to simmer, Abigborodo leaders have urged their people to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasising their unwavering belief in the rule of law and due process. 

      They also called on security agencies to increase surveillance and protect innocent citizens from further attacks.

    • Okpebholo: Governor for the “mekunus”, “ndi-ogbenyes”, “talakawas” 

      Okpebholo: Governor for the “mekunus”, “ndi-ogbenyes”, “talakawas” 

      By John Mayaki 

      In Yoruba, they are called “mekunus”. In Igbo, they are known as “ndi-ogbenye”, and in Hausa, they are referred to as the “talakawas”. These are the poor masses, the have-nots, the hoi polloi, the proletariat, the downtrodden – the very people whom Governor Monday Okpebholo has become a father and defender. 

      Let’s not forget, so hurriedly too, how for the past 8 years, Edo state was governed by an administration that was more interested in impressing the elites, the well-heeled, the fixed, the well-off, the well-situated, the well-to-do and the prosperous, rather than addressing the suffering of ordinary citizens. 

      Former Governor Godwin Obaseki ran a government where consultants, private firms, and political aristocrats took centre stage, while civil servants, market women, farmers, and artisans were left to fend for themselves. It was a government that spoke the language of the wealthy and turned its back on the “mekunus”, the “ndi-ogbenyes” and the “talakawas”. 

      Thankfully though, Governor Okpebholo is rewriting and changing the narratives – since assuming office, he has championed policies and programs that directly benefits the people. For instance, his administration’s budget for health, agriculture, education, roads and infrastructure – the core areas that touches on the life of the ordinary man attests to his love for the poor. 

      The budgetary allocation for agriculture is somewhere around N70 billion – which of course is a clear indication of his drive towards the mekunus, the farmers, the talakawas and ndi-ogbenye. Unlike Obaseki, who was more fascinated with boardroom politics and slides presentations to deceive the people – Okpebholo is more interested in actual governance and real results. 

      Okpebholo’s agricultural funding is already doing wonders and empowering farmers and subsequently ensuring food affordability – if the funds are well managed by government and the beneficiaries. This is one aspect Obaseki failed to do, especially with his infamous “agriprenuer millionaire scheme” in Sobe and other parts of the state where the funds were simply embezzled. 

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      To further tell us of how Okpebholo is reinforcing his pro-people agenda, he has already disbursed N500 million to farmers and since approved the sum of N1.5 billion for farmers scheme within his three months in office. These are not the privileged elites among us that was picked as beneficiaries; they are the hardworking farmers, the backbone of our economy, and those whom Obaseki neglected and relegated.

      One of Okpebholo’s most decisive interventions was in market regulations. He took on the extortionist trade unions that had long exploited traders and consumers alike. After banning these groups, food prices dropped, and this immediately benefited the mekunus, the ndi-ogbenyes and talakawas. This is in contrast to the previous administration of Obaseki, which allowed cartels to flourish while the common man – the hoi polloi suffered.

      But perhaps Okpebholo’s boldest move yet was his reversal of the Central Hospital travesty. Under Obaseki, this all-important healthcare facility was converted into a museum – a playground for the well-heeled, a symbol of governance that prioritized aesthetics over human lives. Okpebholo, however, has restored the hospital to its rightful purpose: treating the sick, not showcasing relics to satisfy the vanity of the well-heeled. 

      On infrastructure, the difference is night and day. While Obaseki wasted years blaming the federal government for bad roads, Okpebholo rolled up his sleeves and got to work. The same roads Obaseki told Edo people to “manage” and be “patient” and to “bear with him”, are now being fixed – not for the rich who fly over potholes in their SUVs, but for the common man who commutes daily. Not for the prosperous few who fly from the Benin airport to Maitama in Abuja but for the hoi polloi who endure the gallops and dangers of the terrible roads under Obaseki to Gwagwalada in Abuja. 

      Okpebholo has also dismantled the consultant-driven governance model that drained state resources. He has disengaged all external consultants who operated as middlemen siphoning funds, returning control to the civil service. Even more significantly, he has converted casual sweepers who Obaseki kept in job insecurity for eight years into permanent civil servants and would now earn the minimum wage. 

      In education, Okpebholo’s increase in subvention to Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma was not a favor to the elite but a direct relief to struggling students and their parents. Contrast this with Obaseki’s obsession to punish the poor students and university by reducing their subvention to N40 million but Okpebholo has increased it to over N500 million. 

      Another defining trait of Okpebholo’s “governance of the poor, by the poor and for the poor” is his commitment to homegrown leadership. Unlike Obaseki, who had a penchant for importing strangers into government – technocrats who neither understood nor cared for Edo people; Okpebholo has appointed commissioners who are true sons and daughters of the state. These are people who have lived with us, worked with us, and understand our struggles.

      Governor Okpebholo is not just running a government; he is leading a movement – the one that places the talakawas, the mekunus, and the ndi-ogbenye at the heart of governance.

      His brand of politics is not about cocktail parties and elite conferences; it is about real governance, real policies, and the real people. He breathes politics, eats politics, acts politics, dances politics, speaks politics, and practices politics – but all in service of the common man.

      For eight years, Edo State endured a government of the wealthy, for the wealthy, and by the wealthy. Today, under Okpebholo, we finally have a government of the people, for the people, and by the people.

    • Monarch, Council boss hail Waive after update on approved FMC

      Monarch, Council boss hail Waive after update on approved FMC

      The member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, Hon. Ejiroghene Waive, has reaffirmed that efforts to establish a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Delta State—recently approved by President Bola Tinubu—are progressing swiftly.

      Waive made this known during a visit to the His Royal Majesty, Barrister Bethel Delekpe, Ohworhu 1, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, at his palace in Aladja, Udu local government area, Delta State where he provided updates on the project’s status. 

      He described the establishment of the medical centre as a legacy initiative aimed at improving healthcare access for his constituents and Delta State residents at large.

      Accompanied by a distinguished entourage—including Udu Local Government Chairman, Chief Vincent Oyibode—Hon. Waive emphasised the significance of the recently passed bill establishing the Federal Medical Center. 

      He highlighted the facility’s potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, ensuring quality medical services for the people of Delta State.

      While addressing the Udu Monarch, Hon. Waive expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler and the people of his constituency for their unwavering support and trust in his leadership. He reiterated his commitment to bringing the dividends of democracy to the region, urging continued cooperation to ensure the project’s successful execution.

      Speaking to newsmen outside the palace, Hon. Waive said: “By the grace of God, this January, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, signed into law my bill establishing the Federal Medical Center in Ovwian, Udu Local Government Area. This is a great achievement that will stand the test of time and benefit future generations. 

      “I felt it was important that His Royal Majesty hear this directly from me rather than through the press. That is why we are here at the palace today to personally convey the news. His Royal Majesty has received me joyfully, offered prayers for me, and expressed his happiness over this remarkable development.

      “This is a significant milestone for humanity. In most states across the country, there is only one tertiary healthcare institution, except for Lagos and Edo, which have more than one. With this development, Delta has now joined that league. We already have one federal medical institution in Asaba, and now, Ovwian will host another. This facility will serve not only Delta Central but also Delta South, providing top-tier healthcare services. We are immensely grateful to Mr. President for this initiative. As the project moves into the execution phase, we will ensure that the infrastructure and service delivery meet world-class standards.”

      He added: “I am thrilled to have contributed to something so impactful for my people—the very people who entrusted me with this mandate. This achievement is a privilege, and I am deeply grateful to God for allowing me to leave a lasting legacy that will enhance the well-being of our people. Now, as a community, we must come together, remain steadfast, and prepare for the arrival of federal officials who will oversee the next steps. This is truly a moment of joy and a great day for Delta State.

      In his response, His Royal Majesty, Barrister Bethel Delekpe, Ohworhu 1, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, commended Hon. Waive for his dedication and commitment to public service, acknowledging him as a visionary lawmaker who has delivered tangible results for his people.

      Also speaking, Chief Vincent Oyibode and Mr Joseph Okuku, President-General of the Ovwian Community, praised Hon. Waive’s foresight in securing a Federal Medical Center that would benefit not just his immediate constituency but Delta State as a whole. They pledged their full support to ensure seamless execution and completion of the project.

      Oyibode further noted that having a Federal Medical Center in Udu would open new doors for economic growth and create more opportunities for residents.

      According to him: “I want to thank God for this noble opportunity as Udu is now the host of a Federal Medical Center—something we have long yearned for. Udu has always been a blessed local government, but over the years, many things have gone wrong. 

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      “The DSC is a federal government establishment, yet we have faced setbacks. Today, however, our brother, who represents us in the Federal House of Representatives, has delivered on the mandate given to him. He has carried out his duties with humility, and we are truly grateful for this institution he has brought to us.

      “As the Chief Security Officer of this local government, I want to emphasize that we have zero tolerance for trouble. Udu has remained a peaceful place, and no one will disrupt that peace. 

      “The moment the bill was signed, I was the first person he called, and I immediately instructed the community president to secure land without delay. We have already identified a location where operations can begin while construction is ongoing.

      “We will not wait for the contractors before taking action. As a show of our commitment, we will clear the land and put up a signboard to mark the site. Security will be our responsibility, and I assure everyone that there will be no threats or disruptions. Udu remains peaceful, and we will ensure that this project is executed without any obstacle.”

    • No sacred cow in Okpebholo’s Edo

      No sacred cow in Okpebholo’s Edo

      By John Mayaki 

      “It’s mere suspension from office, they would be recalled after the suspended officials clear their hard earned names” I had initially assured myself when the news broke this morning. But, we all can now agree that a “no-nonsense”Sherif is town who would not harbour any sacred cow. He has shown that he is actually in charge of his administration – I mean Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state. 

      Since taking the oath of office in November last year, Governor Okpebholo has wasted no time in making his stance on governance very clear – it is no longer business as usual but more of business unusual. In a swift manner for which some say it’s rather too early in the day, the Governor has suspended three ranking officials within his administration – the three happened at night – you simple wake up to hear about it. No time to waste. 

      While those who argue that it was too early for the Governor to have taken these decisions, others say he has sent a strong message that his government will not be a safe haven for indiscipline or financial misconduct – although the affected officials are presumed innocent until proven otherwise. 

      The first to face the hammer was the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (FEWMA), Mr. Ahmed Musa Momoh. He is a staunched supporter of the Governor from Edo North senatorial district. A die-hard believer in Senator Monday Okpebholo and a man who would go any length to defend the Governor. He is on suspension for alleged insubordination and has also apologised. 

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      Next to be suspended are the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, and the Chairman of the State Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani over allegations of “grave official and financial infractions”. I must confess that this suspensions are a shift in the way governance was being conducted in Edo state. 

      But there is a school of thought that disagree with the modus operandi of thr Governor – they say it’s too swift to carry out a disciplinary action within months of taking office as Governor – in fact, they say it’s “premature”. And I asked them, when will it be “matured” to take such actions? When is the ‘right time’ to demand accountability? Should a leader wait until corruption festers before taking action? I think Governor Okpebholo’s approach signals the urgency of the matter – an uncommon trait lacking in governance. 

      For Okpebholo, there is no “massage” for corruption or deodorant to cover any malfeasance. Neither is he willing to ignore because of political convenience. He is wielding the big stick without fear or favour. 

      Again, for those who say it’s too early, the question is – when, then, should the Governor take action? After a year? After his tenure? After the damage has been done? The truth is this, discipline in the case of insubordination and accountability in the case of financial infractions, both must start from day one. If the Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration must be taken seriously, it must set the tone early and that is precisely what the Governor is doing. 

      I think it’s more about establishing a standard and not just necessarily punishment. A leader who understands the weight of his responsibilities and applying the kind of urgency it deserves must be commended. We all know that these principles are often ignored in our governance system but common in the private sector. 

      The question I normally would ask when it comes to fiscal discipline is this – if it were your farm, would you allow reckless spending, insubordination, or financial mismanagement? This is the question the Governor is asking those entrusted with public funds and responsibilities. Governance for me, is not a free-for-all but a serious business that demands the highest level of discipline and accountability. 

      The message is undoubtedly loud and clear for every appointee – they are simply walking on eggshells and any deviation from integrity and professionalism will come at a steep cost because for Okpebholo, governance is service to the people and not personal enrichment. Even when those suspended are eventually cleared and reinstated, the warning has been served – it doesn’t matter your status or political connections. 

      Governor Okpebholo has shown boldness in just a few months in office. He has also shown courage, and readiness to work. Now, there is a clear line in the sand against corruption that you cannot cross as an appointee. It is either you shape in, or you shape out. 

      Okpebholo is not ready to be blackmailed that because he has a case in court, everyone should misbehave. There must be discipline, transparency and accountability even though for the period he would remain in office – it must reign supreme. We have seen leaders, but Okpebholo’s style is unusual. No sacred cow.

    • Breach of MoU: Firm not ready to join issues with community leaders

      Breach of MoU: Firm not ready to join issues with community leaders

      Sterling Petrochemical and Fertiliser Limited (SPFL), an Indian firm, has denied that it breached the terms of agreement it signed with it’s host communities in Eastern Obolo local government of Akwa Ibom state.

      Stakeholders of Eastern Obolo including the paramount ruler of the local government, HRH Harry Etetor had  accused the company of violating the 2022 agreement and encroaching on another land covering over 1,200 hectares.

      The village head of Emere-oke 11, Chief Joshua Matthew Ayagwung, 

      who spoke on behalf of stakeholders during the conference, decried the level of negligence on the part of the company.

      They also alleged that the company’s activities had led to the blockage of the communities’s Creeks, watersways and channels and displacement of over 1,000 households, thereby causing untold hardship to natives.

      In a world press conference last Thursday the Eastern Obolo leaders also said that the activities of the company have led to the outbreak of cholera  which they noted had claimed over 20 lives. 

      “As we speak, members of the these communities are trapped and are unable to access medical care for the sick and daily necessities, especially now that suspected cases of cholera have already claimed over 20 lives in one of the the host commities.”Ayagwung said 

      But a top management staff of SPFL, who refused to be named because he was not authorised to speak, said that it was the tradition of the company to join issues with it’s host communities.

      He stated rather that it will continue to maintain and consolidate on the existing relationship with the host communities in line with it Corporate Social Responsibility. 

      The issues have led to mutual distrust and acrimony between the host communities and the company. 

      But speaking with our corespondent, the source said “SPFL will not and cannot join issues with its host communities, but will continue to consolidate our relationship with our hosts,”

      He said however, despite claims of poor community relations, a review of SPFL’s CSR records revealed that SPFL, has been very encouraging 

      According to him the company had purchased scholarships and JAMB form for over 200 students and empowered youths and women in skill acquisition and business grants 

      On health, he said SPFL has intervened in many health programmes including the recent outbreak of cholera in Emere-oke community , adding that sub-contract worth N200m awarded to indigenous contractors.

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      According to the source”We have done women and youth empowerment programs, including skills acquisition and business grants and provided fishing equipment and training for local fishermen in the area.

      “We have also intervened in various Health programme, including a recent cholera outbreak response in Emeroeke community.

      Sub-contracts worth over ₦200 million have been awarded to indigenous contractors and employment of over 3,000 skilled, unskilled, and semi-skilled workers from Eastern Obolo. This is in addition to the monthly honorarium of over ₦52 million paid to leaders and traditional rulers.”

      The source added while these programmes suggest that some expectations are yet to be met, the claim of total abandonment is inaccurate.

    • Edo and the billionaire farmers of Kaduna

      Edo and the billionaire farmers of Kaduna

      By John Mayaki 

      I watched Babajide Kolade-Otitoju on Journalists’ Hangout last week Friday as he documented his trip to Kaduna state, where he interviewed some billionaire farmers. You needed to see these men – if you come across them on the street, nothing about them suggest their paths ever came across money – at least, not in their appearance, yet they are some of the wealthiest individuals in their community – thanks to farming. 

      According to Otitoju, gaining access to their location wasn’t easy. In fact, he had to be escorted by heavily armed security personnel, because this became necessary in a state just like every other, where farmers live at the mercy of bandits, criminal herdsmen and kidnappers. But even at that, these men have found a way to thrive in farming, making billions from tilling the soil every year. I also understand that their wealth is evident not only in their account balances, but also in their generosity, as they sponsor people on Hajj and also contribute meaningfully to their communities. 

      This story caught my attention because, despite the security crisis, these farmers refuse to be deterred. Don’t forget that many others could resign to fate, blaming their misfortunes on insecurity or government but these Kaduna farmers are different. They have found ways to navigate their challenges and making serious money from planting maize, beans, millet among others. 

      This brings me to something personal – for sometimes now, people have reached out to me warning me of the dangers of exposing myself to kidnappers. They say farming is not safe and as such, I should quit it. Of course, I know some persons who abandoned their farmlands and fled the country after experiencing attacks – all of them from Edo state but I have also seen farmers still trudging on in the same Edo state too. 

      Others complain that even if herdsmen do not destroy their crops, finding workers to work their farmland is a major setback. There was a group of 4 young men who reached out to me, I did advised when they needed me to handle their 10 hectares of farmland – and I told them I was going to hire Hausa or Fulani laborers to assist in their farm, but they immediately rejected and asked me to burry the thought. They preferred to stay out of farming entirely rather than engage Northerners – just imagine that mentality – stereotype and dangerous ethnic profiling.

      Often, people ask me how I manage to farm in the face of incessant kidnappings and herdsmen invasions and my answer has always been very simple: be strategic, think of the problems ahead and address them. And for workers, you cannot do but engage the same people you don’t want to see, and then, you can sleep peacefully at night. Of course, there are different types of engagements.  

      Now, let’s be serious here – farming is a serious business and we must take it very seriously. If you must farm, you must be ready to commit your time, energy, and intellect. For some people, they just assume that farming is as simple as planting maize or cassava today, going home and returning three months later to harvest. I see that as self delusion. If you ask me, I think farming demands patience, commitment, strategy, and constant monitoring just like every other business. And if there is one group of people who understand this well, it is the northerners. 

      I have seen farmers in the north who constructed perimeter fencing for a vast land measuring 5-to-10-hectare farmlands solely for crops and livestocks. I have also seen those who employ security guards to protect their farms. These are serious farmers who refuse to let challenges dictate their fate. They adapt, they innovate, and they keep pushing forward because life itself is full of challenges, and those who must succeed are those who learn to navigate them. 

      Conversely, I have also seen individuals in Edo state who fence massive compounds, installed boreholes, employ security guards on the sprawling property and then lock up the space; doing nothing with the space. These are the same people who complain about the high cost of food in the market – rather than cultivate and task the land, they fold their arms and lament, waiting for government patronage. Rather than cultivate vegetables and use their boreholes to ensure year-round water supply, they would prefer to wait for government to come to their rescue while blaming insecurity for everything. 

      I have said repeatedly that there is nothing stopping Edo State from achieving food sufficiency all year round. Our climate supports the cultivation of every type of food and fruit you can imagine. Instead of practicing irrigation farming, like they do in the north, our people prefer the easy way out: get-rich-quick. The younger generation is even worse, fixated on quick money rather than sustainable enterprise. 

      States like Niger, Zamfara, Yobe, Nasarawa, Borno, Katsina among others can complain of insecurity and we would understand and, of course, people still farm and transport their produce to other parts of the country. But in Edo state, the common excuse is herdsmen, as though there are no practical solutions to mitigate their menace. 

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      Don’t get me wrong, government has a role to play, and we must put the blame on its table but farmers who are determined can go the extra mile and get things done. That is why I am particularly glad when I saw the investment of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the area of security – both in terms of infrastructure, manpower, training and equipment – to tackle insecurity head-on. I have also seen the governor’s determination to change the narrative when it comes to agriculture – at least, his 2025 budget estimates confirms this optimism. It is my hope and earnest prayers that they translate into reality in terms of real security for our farmers, their investment, and even more importantly, the future of agriculture in our Dear state. 

      Farming is not just a profession for these Kaduna billionaires just like billionaire farmers elsewhere – it is the backbone of any serious economy. If Kaduna farmers, Niger farmers, Nasarawa farmers, Benue farmers among others can overcome their obstacles and build billion-naira farms, what excuse do we have in Edo state? Let’s go a farming and let’s stop lazing about.

    • PANDEF lauds Tinubu’s support for NDDC board 

      PANDEF lauds Tinubu’s support for NDDC board 

      The Pan Niger Delta Development Forum (PANDEF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the Dr. Samuel Ogbuku-led board of the Niger Development Commission (NDDC).

      The forum also applauded the board for  for its commitment to transparency, accountability, and infrastructure development in the region.

      Giving the commendation during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the umbrella organisation of Niger Delta people at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, lauded the commission’s leadership, describing it as visionary and result-driven.

      Igali said: “We have never seen a leadership team like this, and we thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support. Your interventions in infrastructure, particularly the Benin-Ore road and the Light Up Niger Delta initiative, are commendable. Your youth development programmes are also making a significant impact.”

      Igali in a statement signed by the commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thomson-Wakama assured the NDDC of PANDEF’s continued collaboration, reiterating the group’s role as the voice of the Niger Delta people in the civic space.

      “We believe in working closely with you and reaffirm our support for your administration. We urge Mr. President, the governors, and other stakeholders to provide you with the necessary tools to succeed,” he said.

      Responding, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transformational leadership and accountability. 

      He stated that NDDC had engaged the globally renowned audit firm, KPMG, to review its operations, adding that the report’s recommendations would be fully implemented to enhance transparency and efficiency.

      He said:  “There have been anomalies in the past, but we are focused on the future. We agreed with KPMG to begin implementing the report’s recommendations internally and externally.”

      Ogbuku emphasized that data would drive all NDDC programmes to ensure proper monitoring and equitable distribution of benefits. 

      Regarding the commission’s youth empowerment initiative, he confirmed that payments to registered beneficiaries would commence this month.

      Ogbuku highlighted recent strides in infrastructure, particularly road projects and disclosed that the Auchi-Benin road, a vital economic artery in the Niger Delta, had been prioritised for intervention. 

      He said the Auchi-Eruwe road had been completed and in good condition, adding that work on the Port Harcourt-Owerri road had progressed to the asphalting stage while the Agbor-Uromi road would soon receive attention.

      The NDDC boss said that the commission engaged International Oil Companies (IOCs) to attract partnerships for large-scale projects.

       “We are collaborating with Nigeria LNG (NLNG) to facilitate the construction of the Bonny Ring Road. Other major road projects are also in progress, including the Kaa-Ataba and Borokiri-Okrika roads,” he said.

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      Acknowledging the region’s high demand for solar power projects, Ogbuku announced that NDDC would explore building solar mini-grids in collaboration with electricity distribution companies (DisCos).

      He noted that 2025 would mark NDDC’s 25th anniversary, with a series of activities planned, including the inauguration of completed projects.

      He said: “A major highlight will be the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival, aimed at fostering regional integration and developing amateur sporting talents. Akwa Ibom State will host the festival.

      “All abandoned projects will be revisited in line with the directive of Mr. President. The NDDC has achieved a lot, and we are proud to celebrate not just the Commission but the people of the Niger Delta.”

      Key NDDC executives, including the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye; the Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai; the Executive Director of Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde; and other Commission’s Directors, attended the event.