The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • A’Ibom HCDT received over N36billion in two years

    A’Ibom HCDT received over N36billion in two years

    The NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust(HCDT) received over N36billion between 2021 and 2022 for infrastructural and human capacity development in oil-bearing areas in Akwa Ibom state.

    Chairman of the Trust, Senator Helen Esuene, disclosed this yesterday during the first annual general meeting (AGM) of the Trust at the Villa Marina Hotel Eket.

    Esuene said that the Trust under her watch has deployed it’s resources in addressing the needs and challenges of host communities in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    She disclosed that the EMOIMEE HCDT has engaged in and completed various life-touching projects and intervention programmes in Eastern Obolo, Mbo, Onna, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, Eket and Esit local government areas of the state.

    She listed the achievements of the Trust to include 1,572 scholarships/bursaries to students in tertiary institutions, 143 secondary school scholarships, 100 ICT training, 150 skill acquisition programmes, distribution of commercial vehicles to 396 beneficiaries.

    Others are purchase and distribution of 3 ambulances, 8 medical outreach programmes in local government areas, supplies of medicine and drugs to medical centres, provision of improved palm oil seedlings and installation of solar powered pumps.

    Read Also: Oil firm donates over 1,000 sanitary pads, books to school girls in A’Ibom

    According to her, “the EMOIMEE HCDT is currently working at implementing an array of projects earmarked and contained in the 5-year Host Community Development Plan prepared and approved by the Regulator, settlor and respective host communities. 

    “These projects cover all aspects related to the development of the host communities and it’s citizens”.

    The AGM of the EMOIMEE HCDT was attended by Paramount rulers, stakeholders and representatives of the seven local government areas covered by the Trust.

    The stakeholders advised the management of the Trust to invest more in agriculture, small and medium scale businesses, skills development among others.

  • Congress opposes OBJ over calls to sack Yakubu

    Congress opposes OBJ over calls to sack Yakubu

    The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has opposed the recent call by the former President Olusegun Obasanjo for the removal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

    According to a statement issued on behalf of the group by its National Coordinator, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, he said while constructive criticism is vital in the nation’s democratic journey, it is baseless hypocrisy cloaked as patriotism, especially when coming from someone whose own record on governance and electoral integrity is deeply flawed.

    In the statement which reads in part, Uwejeyan said: “It is essential to remind Nigerians of former President Obasanjo’s undeniable role in institutionalising many of the undemocratic practices we are still working to dismantle. As the architect of “do-or-die” politics, Obasanjo not only oversaw but also masterminded some of the most egregious electoral malpractices in Nigeria’s history. His infamous declaration that even Jesus Christ could not conduct a free and fair election in Nigeria is a testament to his cynical view of democracy.

    “In 2003, Obasanjo conducted an election widely regarded as one of the most rigged in Nigeria’s history, securing a second term through brazen manipulation. By 2007, he orchestrated another deeply flawed election to impose a successor, an act that undermined Nigeria’s democratic foundation and credibility. It is, therefore, ironic for the man who perfected the art of writing election results to now claim moral authority on electoral credibility.

    “Obasanjo’s history of state capture and abuse of power is unparalleled. His administration was marked by an intolerance for dissent, exemplified by the military invasions of Odi and Zaki Biam, which left countless innocent Nigerians dead and communities destroyed. He ignored the gruesome murders of political opponents like Chief Marshall Harry and Funso Williams, raising serious questions about his commitment to justice and accountability.

    “This is the same Obasanjo who attempted to subvert the Constitution through a third-term agenda, using tons of cash to bribe lawmakers. He orchestrated the impeachment of governors with minority votes in state assemblies, sanctioned the illegal arrest of a sitting governor (Dr. Chris Ngige), and used state resources to oppress political opponents. His tenure as president remains a case study in authoritarianism, where the rule of law was routinely undermined.

    “The former president’s disdain for institutions did not stop with INEC. He systematically weakened the legislature, removing Senate Presidents and Speakers at will, reducing the National Assembly to a puppet show. His failed bid to oust Speaker Ghali Umar Na’Abba was another instance of his disdain for democratic norms, involving the open distribution of bribes to legislators.

    Read Also: Again, OBJ talks the talk

    “Nigerians are not blind to the fact that Obasanjo has consistently attacked every leader who came after him, including Presidents Shagari, Babangida, Buhari, Abdulsalami, and Jonathan. Even the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which brought him to power in 1999, was not spared his venom, culminating in the public tearing of his membership card.

    “The state of Nigeria today is in no small part due to the faulty foundations laid by Obasanjo’s administration. His attempts to rewrite history and position himself as a paragon of democratic ideals are not only laughable but also insulting to the intelligence of Nigerians.

    “We, therefore, call on Nigerians to see through Obasanjo’s antics and focus on building institutions that work for all, devoid of personal vendettas or political theatrics. The challenges we face today require collective solutions, not the divisive rhetoric of a man whose own legacy is riddled with contradictions and failures.”

  • Ondo polls: NDYC passes vote of confidence on INEC boss

    Ondo polls: NDYC passes vote of confidence on INEC boss

    The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has passed a vote of confidence on the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, especially in the way and manner he is discharging his mandate at the commission. 

    In a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, on Thursday, the group said it holds INEC’s mandate in high regard, recognising the essential role it plays in ensuring that Nigerian elections are conducted freely, fairly, and credibly. 

    In the statement which reads in part, it said: “We commend Professor Yakubu for his unwavering commitment to steering INEC with integrity, professionalism, and a clear vision for transparency and efficiency. The recent timing of these allegations, aligning conspicuously with the upcoming Ondo State elections, raises concerns about the true intent behind them. We view this as a calculated move to sow discord and cast a shadow of doubt over the electoral process, distracting both INEC and the public from the critical task of conducting free and fair elections.

    “We call on the Nigerian public to disregard these unfounded claims, and instead, keep sight of the larger goals of national unity and democratic integrity. We stand resolutely with Professor Yakubu and affirm our confidence in his commitment to upholding the sanctity of Nigeria’s elections. 

    “Furthermore, we appeal to Nigerian youth, as key stakeholders in the future of our democracy, to remain vigilant and discerning, resisting any efforts to derail or distort our democratic processes through misinformation and divisive tactics.

    Read Also: JUST IN: INEC begins distribution of sensitive materials for Ondo poll

    “The NDYC urges all political actors, civil society organisations, and stakeholders within the democratic process to throw their support behind INEC’s mission. It is crucial that we allow the commission the independence it needs to fulfill its mandate, free from the undue influence of selfish interests that seek to overshadow the genuine aspirations of Nigerians for good governance and a stable future. We must collectively ensure that our electoral processes remain transparent, peaceful, and reflective of the true will of the Nigerian people.

    “Finally, we reiterate our full confidence in Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s leadership of INEC. We encourage him to continue his work with courage and determination, unshaken by these distractions, knowing that the NDYC and well-meaning Nigerians across the country support his efforts. Under his capable guidance, we believe INEC will continue to uphold the highest principles of democracy, justice, and fairness, which are vital to Nigeria’s progress and stability.”

  • Niger Delta safer with NDDC, group assures

    Niger Delta safer with NDDC, group assures

    A regional advocacy body, South South Reawakening Group (SSRG), has expressed optimism in the ability of current Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, to deliver on its mandate to ensure sustainable development of the area, especially with adequate funding.

    Reacting to the public outcry over the recent dissolution of Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs by Federal Government, the body noted that the need to put an end to duplication of development agencies in the region when an already existing establishment like NDDC has all it takes to carry such an assignment effectively.

    Making its stand on the issue known in a statement by its Convener, Mr. Joseph Ambakederimo, the body urged those opposed to government’s decision to scrap the Ministry not to dissipate energy on such issues but  rather seek ways of supporting NDDC to perform optimally.

    Ambakederimo, also Chairman Board of Trustees, Community Development Committees of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas, noted that NDDC had done so well in terms of regional development since its establishment and can still do more when adequate funding are provided to widening the scope of its coverage areas across the oil producing states.

    The statement titled; NDDC to the rescue, reads in part: “After the storm that greeted the scrapping of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development recently by President Bola Tinubu in the wake of his cabinet reshuffling by a section of opposition voices in the Niger Delta region, we want to assure our people that we recognise the fear they express and there is need to assuage those fears”.

    “We must also urge our people to apply strategic intelligence henceforth in agitating for the Federal governments attention towards government policies affecting the region. We beg to disagree that the number of interventionist agencies will automatically translate to a better life for the future of the people of the region”.

    “We need to streamline development activities as it affects the infrastructural development Initiatives for the region for maximum gains. It does not make economic sense to have litany of money guzzling agencies that won’t have much positive impact on the region, many of these agencies  have only become a cesspit of corruption and are used to siphon resources that are meant for development purposes.

    “What should be paramount to us as a people is the level of development of our infrastructures in the oil producing communities and the upliftment of the standard of the lives of our people.

    “The brouhaha generated by the scrapping of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development is grossly misplaced when the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is still very well in existence, except we are inadvertently saying we do not have faith in the NDDC to be able to turn the fortunes of the Niger Delta region for good. 

    “We must not forget that before the creation of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development there was NDDC taking on the construction of roads and bridges through virgin forests, canalisation, electrification of far flung communities, development of new towns as a result of land reclamation, human capacity development , skills acquisition and many others too numerous to mention. 

    “So it is only proper for us to place on record that without the existence of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development the NDDC can do much more better than what they have been known to accomplished in the past if given the needed support of increased funding and less political interference on the leadership of the Commission. 

    “Our region, a resilient people has long been defined by a cycle of hope and disillusioned mindset. Over the years we have seen people of the region rise with renewed optimism and gusto only to be weighed down by unfulfilled promisise. 

    “Today, we find ourselves at the critical juncture of where we see hope eroded as claimed by many as a result of the scrapping of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development which may give way to a dangerous sequence, disappointment, anger, frustration and ultimately paralysis from attack on Oil and gas infrastructure in the region once again.

    “This is the trajectory of our story in the region, always on a kneer-jeck trajectory, and unless we take decisive action, the consequences could be grave. It is on this note that we position that the NDDC no doubt have the capacity to transform the Niger Delta region especially now that we have a substantive board that is focused and forward looking. 

    “Losing the Ministry of Niger Delta Development, which hitherto have overlapping functions with the NDDC should not sound a death-kneel to the regions development afterall. We have absolute confidence in the “New NDDC” under the leadership  of Dr Samuel Ogbuku, that have shown optimum capacity to transform the region. 

    “We have to have faith in the NDDC, the NDDC is well equipped with human capital and material resources to take on any challenges that has been militating against the regions infrastructural development”. 

    “The focus for us should be the call to strengthened the NDDC by ways of increased funding for the Commission to be able to take on big ticket projects that will herald the regeneration of the region and it’s  ecosystem, curb incessant political interference on the leadership by allowing appointees to complete their tenure. 

    “This is the only way continuity and sustainability can be guaranteed which  will become impactful for the overall benefit of the region and its people.  

    “The support and empathy shown to the region by President Bola Tinubu is unprecedented, therefore we appeal to the President’s consciousness as a matter of urgency to initiate an executive amendment Bill to the National Assembly for purposes of amendment of the relevant sections of the NDDC establishment Act to increase the funding to the NDDC. 

    Read Also: Niger Delta stakeholders condemn call for dissolution of NDDC board

    “Our recommendation; (Section 14 (A) States that from the Federal Government, the equivalent of fifteen per cent of the total monthly statutory allocations due to member states of the Commission from the Federation Account ; this being the contributions of the Federal Government to the Commission. (this should be raised to Twenty Five) per cent from the Federal government to the NDDC. 

    “(B) Three (3) per cent of the total annual budget of any oil producing  company operating Onshore and offshore, in the Niger Delta area ; including gas processing companies; (this should be raised to  Ten per cent) 

    “(C) Fifty per cent of monies due to member states of the Commission from the Ecological Fund, (this should be raised to seventy five per cent). 

    “This is the kind of agitation that our people should engage the Federal government on rather than mundane pursuits that will serve a few.” 

  • N-Delta indigenes urge Tinubu to revive PH, Warri refineries, wnd PMS importation

    N-Delta indigenes urge Tinubu to revive PH, Warri refineries, wnd PMS importation

    A Coalition of Niger Delta Oil Producing Ethnic Nationalities Forum on Friday called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu take drastic steps to get the Port Harcourt and Warri Refineries in Niger Delta working immediately to revive the economy in the oil rich region.

    The over 300 members of the forum  in a protest stormed the Zonal office of NNPCL in Warri, Delta State and expressed tdispleasure over the abandonment of PH and Warri Refineries by NNPCL.

    The protesters led by Comrade Emmanuel F. Pathfinder, President/National Coordinator  urged the President  to give all  necessary support to local refineries, including Dangote Refinery so as to stop fuel importation.

    In their protest letter, they also asked the President to compel NNPCL to comply with the National Executive Council (NEC) Resolution to sell crude oil to Dangote Refinery in naira to reduce the price of Petroleum products in Nigeria.

    “We request that President Tinubu should overhaul the entire NNPCL to weed out corrupt officials who made have been conniving with the cabal.

    “This protest today is to express our displeasure on the economy of Niger Delta that is being endangered following the grounding of PH and Warri Refineries. The deliberate killing and abandonment of our local refineries in Niger Delta by NNPCL in connivance with certain oil cabal must stop.

    “These oil cabal benefits in Billions of naira from importation of refined products and would always frustrate every efforts by the Federal Government to stop PMS importation,” they stated. 

    Read Also: The advantage crude sale in naira to refineries, by Tinubu

    According to them, it is worrisome that NNPCL led by Mele Kyari has failed to get PH and Warri Refineries working, but allegedly encouraging cabal to continue importing PMS.

    “We also commend Alhaji Aliko Dangote for building his 650,000 BPD Refinery in Lagos, which is aimed to ensure sufficiency of fuel and putting an end to importation”

    “ The cabal are actively sabotaging every efforts to stop importation of refined products.  The President must do everything possible to dismantle the cabal because investors are gradually losing confidence in Nigeria”

    “Nigeria cannot rely on PMS importation. Supporting local refineries to work will create jobs for youthful Nigerians, economic benefits  and encourage potential investors in the  refining sector”

    “The huge funds that the FG had put into the Turn Around Maintenance of the Refineries without any results is worrisome”

    The group lamented that the NNPCL had spent over N11.3trilion  between 2010 and 2018 to fix the refineries with no head way.

  • Delta confers role model award on oil magnate, Sholaye Jeremi

    In Nigeria’s bustling Delta region, few names command as much respect and admiration as Sholaye Jeremi. 

    Known for his business acumen, humility, and considerable wealth, Jeremi’s influence extends far beyond his remarkable achievements in the oil and gas industry.

    The billionaire’s commitment to ethical business standards and philanthropy earned him the Delta Role Model Award in 2024, a recognition of his life’s work defined by integrity, diligence, and deep compassion for others.

    As one of the rare visionaries using his wealth to uplift the underprivileged, Jeremi stands out as a leader. 

    Selected by the Role Model Board of Trustees, his award as a Delta Role Model for Outstanding Integrity in Oil and Gas, along with his Youth Role Model title, highlights the enduring impact of leading with purpose and empathy in the face of success.

    Jeremi’s journey, however, is no tale of overnight fortune. In a rare show of ambition and grit, he rose from humble beginnings to conquer the world of oil and gas—a feat achieved by unyielding discipline, courage, and a relentless commitment to ethical entrepreneurship. 

    This path of hard work stands in stark contrast to the rapid, often superficial trajectories of fame and wealth in today’s fast-paced society. 

    For Jeremi, it has been a long, steady climb marked by diligence, honesty,  self-reflection and discipline. 

    The billionaire’s roots are a testament to the power of resilience; every step has been earned, every accolade deserved.

    In a world where material success often stifles the breath of modesty and the virtue of integrity, Jeremi remains an outlier. 

    He is humble yet powerful, capable of evolving through patience and purpose. Jeremi’s unassuming poise is not only a personal victory but an emblem of hope for countless Nigerians, especially young people, who dream of one day reaching similar heights.

    Perhaps Jeremi’s most remarkable legacy is his influence on the younger generation. His story shatters stereotypes and stands as a beacon for those who dare to dream against the odds. 

    Youth from across Nigeria look up to him, drawing strength from his journey as a reminder that success is not confined to a privileged few. Jeremi’s own words to aspiring entrepreneurs are a candid reflection of his ethos: “You cannot sleep and wake up a millionaire. You must work hard, be determined, and trust in God.” 

    His advice is simple yet profound, rooted in a belief that ethical success is achievable for those who are willing to put in the effort.

    For Jeremi, mentorship is a duty, a calling he embraces with the same humility that defines his life. He encourages young people to stay focused, resist the temptations of fast wealth, and uphold integrity, echoing a creed he has followed throughout his own rise.

    In the billionaire magnate’s world, luxury is a quiet preference, not a stage. 

    He neither seeks to exploit nor misapply his stupendous wealth to unfair advantage. Jeremi’s restraint in all things material is refreshing. 

    He eschews the trappings of status—no loud proclamations, no glittering cavalcades of excess. This is a man whose idea of wealth is not just in material gains but in the human impact he makes. 

    The billionaire approaches life as he does business: with humility and discretion. “Money means nothing to me,” he says candidly. “You are only a custodian of wealth if you are rich, and you are only wealthy if you touch people’s lives.”

    Read Also: Ogbomro Grammar School win Zenith Bank/Delta Principals’ Cup

    Jeremi’s philanthropic heart is the quiet engine driving much of his influence.

    This deep sense of compassion fuels his business philosophy, where ethical conduct is a cornerstone. Jeremi believes that virtue should be the rule in commerce, a counterforce to the cutthroat practices so prevalent in today’s market. 

    His business ventures echo this creed, creating a legacy not just of profit but of conscientious enterprise. It is no surprise that this value-laden approach to wealth has made him a figure of admiration in both corporate and local circles.

    For Jeremi, the oil and gas sector is more than a lucrative venture; it is a platform for pioneering change. With unwavering diligence, he has reshaped the industry’s reputation in Nigeria, challenging misconceptions and establishing a model of integrity. Guided by steadfast principles, Jeremi has built a sparkling reputation —an empire rooted in honesty and strategic foresight. His colleagues speak of a man who leads by example, merging ambition with ethical restraint, proving that success does not require compromising one’s core values.

    Jeremi’s success in oil and gas is owed to a business philosophy that combines personal ethics with strategic brilliance. He does not simply run a company; he builds a legacy, one anchored in integrity and fair practices. 

    It is these very traits that made the Role Model Board of Trustees recognize him as a figure deserving of honor—a man who has set new standards in a sector often plagued by murky practices.

    Jeremi’s distinction as a Delta Role Model in 2024 is not simply an award—it is an acknowledgment of his lifelong devotion to his values. His story is a narrative of transformation, both personal and societal. 

    In a world often dominated by power and politics, Jeremi’s steadfast focus on business and charity offers an alternative—a vision of success rooted in substance, not status. His life’s work reflects an understanding that wealth is not the ultimate goal, but a tool for creating lasting impact.

    In an era where role models are in short supply, Sholaye Jeremi emerges as a refreshing figure, his legacy a living testament to integrity, discipline, and quiet compassion. 

    As he stands to receive his award at the Delta Role Model Awards, Jeremi’s presence will remind all attendees of the power of humility in a world driven by ambition. For him, this moment is not the culmination of his journey but a continuation, a stepping stone toward further acts of kindness and responsibility.

    Jeremi’s recognition is more than an individual honor; it’s a symbol of what is possible when wealth aligns with integrity. 

    The Delta Role Model Award is a fitting tribute to a man whose life resonates with purpose and resilience. In every sense, Jeremi has redefined the meaning of success, proving that true greatness lies not in wealth alone but in the quiet, steady acts of service to humanity.

  • Okowa’s EFCC arrest shocking but unsurprising – NDC

    Okowa’s EFCC arrest shocking but unsurprising – NDC

    A good governance advocacy group, the New Delta Coalition, NDC, has described the recent arrest and detention of former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged misappropriation of N1.3 trillion in Delta State funds as “shocking but hardly surprising.”

    In a statement by its convener, Mr. Godwin Anaughe, the NDC expressed dismay over Okowa’s alleged misuse of funds estimated at approximately N1.3 trillion—derived from Delta’s 13 per cent derivation allocation between 2015 and 2023, which was intended to benefit Delta residents. 

    Okowa was alleged to have diverted these funds to acquire luxury properties in Abuja and Asaba.

    The NDC described Okowa’s administration as one “marked by systemic corruption, lack of transparency, and impunity,” claiming that these issues hindered Delta’s development and impoverished communities despite substantial federal allocations. 

    The coalition praised the EFCC’s actions and called for a thorough investigation to recover any looted funds and prosecute those involved.

    The group also criticised Okowa’s questionable investment of N40 billion in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG), which they allege was diverted from its original purpose. 

    The NDC labeled these actions “a betrayal of public trust,” asserting that Okowa’s leadership left Delta State struggling with unpaid salaries, pension debts, and growing debt burdens.

    The coalition further scrutinised the current administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, alleging that his tenure has shown minimal progress since he assumed office. 

    According to the NDC, Delta State has received an additional N239.6 billion in 13% derivation funds between June 2023 and July 2024, but little improvement has been seen from these allocations.

    They urged Governor Oborevwori, who served as Speaker of the Delta Assembly before becoming Governor, to support federal investigations into Okowa’s alleged actions and to enact measures to prevent future financial misconduct.

    Read Also: EFCC arrests Okowa over alleged N1.3tr fraud

    The statement reads: “The arrest and detention of Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged misappropriation of N1.3 trillion of Delta State funds is shocking but hardly surprising. This staggering amount, representing 13% derivation funds of Delta State’s allocation from the federation account between 2015 and 2023, was meant to benefit the people of Delta State.

    “Ifeanyi Okowa’s alleged diversion of these funds for personal gain, including acquiring properties in Abuja and Asaba, Delta State, breached public trust during his governorship. 

    “Furthermore, the suspicious investment of N40 billion in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas, allegged to have been redirected for unrelated purposes, adds another layer of complexity to Okowa’s alleged misdeeds.

    “These revelations, especially given his history of neglecting to pay civil servants and pensioners while accumulating massive debt, make Okowa’s dismal record of achievement in office all the more disappointing.

    “Okowa’s alleged financial crimes confirm the prevalent and pervasive corruption, lack of transparency and accountability, impunity, and executive lawlessness of the PDP administration in Delta State, which over the years have exacerbated the struggles of everyday Deltans. It’s unacceptable that those in power prioritize personal gain over the welfare of the people they serve.

    “The EFCC’s investigation and arrest of Okowa are crucial steps toward ensuring accountability and justice. We commend the EFCC’s efforts and urge them to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure that the funds are recovered and the perpetrators are prosecuted and brought to justice.

    “Delta State’s widespread poverty and underdevelopment have been constructed and sustained by monumental corruption and theft of the state’s resources. The chronic lack of basic social services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities contradicts the humongous federal allocations. While Okowa and his cronies allegedly looted the state’s treasury, the good people of Delta State remained consigned to live in squalor and extreme poverty.

    “Poverty conditions in the state’s oil-rich areas are exacerbated by unremedied pollution, ecological damage, and unmitigated climate change. Oil-producing communities in Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko and Ndokwa continue to suffer neglect and misery due to corruption and bad governance. 

    “The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), established to facilitate development, has failed to justify its mandate and dashed hopes for sustained interventions to promote development and progress of concerned areas.

    “The lack of visible progress and development under Governor Oborevwori’s administration is astounding and suggests a bleak future for Deltans, particularly regarding the alleged misappropriation of massive funds flowing into the state’s coffers. 

    “Between June 2023 and July 2024, Delta State received N239.6 billion as 13% derivation. Unfortunately, there are clear indications that Governor Oborevwori’s performance may surpass Okowa’s in terms of poor governance and alleged theft of state resources.

    “As Speaker of the Delta State Assembly from June 2017 to May 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had a responsibility to safeguard the state’s resources; however, he failed to do so. 

    “Now, as governor, he bears a solemn duty to cooperate with federal investigators to recover alleged looted funds and hold Okowa and his collaborators accountable. Implementing measures to prevent such corruption in the future is also essential.

    “The New Delta Coalition strongly condemns Okowa’s alleged financial crimes. We call for a thorough and transparent investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators. Deltans deserve to be served with the highest attainable standards of transparency, accountability, and good, effective governance. We will continue to advocate for their rights, with the sole aim of Building A New Delta.”

  • Group condemns alleged foreign media conspiracy to criminalise Nigerians

    Group condemns alleged foreign media conspiracy to criminalise Nigerians

    A group, South-South Professional & Transparency Initiatives (SSPTI), has raised the alarm over the grand design by some selected foreign media working with INTERPOL to tag Nigeria as most notorious globally in crime records,  especially cybercrimes and other social vices.

    The group called on the Federal Government especially the ministries responsible for foreign affairs and diplomatic relations to correct this wrong impression imaginary created to ridicule the country within the comity of nations.

    Speaking against the backdrop of a recent publication by a US Researcher, one  Matthew La Lime, where a non-existing cult group, ‘The Black Axe Confraternity’, was tagged as the most criminally minded and violent organisation globally, the body described the allegations as denigrating,frivolous, bias and unfounded

    Reacting to the report published on October 29, 2024, in a statement by Dr. Ugochukwu Alozie (Chairman) and Engr. Kayode Ayomide (Secretary), the body noted the report lacked merit as the researcher Matthew La Lime who uses the platform and website of Africa Center For Strategic Studies, National Defense University, Washington DC, to write his denigrating articles, failed to mention names of the cultists arrested within and abroad in connection to these crimes.

    It called on the international bodies, especially Nigeria trade partners and intending investors to discountenance the report, as it was borne out of mischief by the Researcher to discredit the nation, as it had become evident that there was no iota of truth in the issues raised in the said publication.

    The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a publication dated October 29, 2024, authored by one Matthew La Lime, a US based Researcher that recently went viral and we wish to categorically state here that the said publication was a figment of the author’s imagination 

    “We are even more convinced based on the fact that the said publication lacked all the basic ingredients of an objective, truthful and balance report on the issues raised. And it now crystal clear that the Researcher conducted himself in a very unprofessional manner out of desperation to gain money and gain cheap fame for himself.

    “First, there is the need to educate the writer that the group he pinned all these crimes to; The Black Axe Confraternity only existed in his imagination, as such had long ceased to exist and therefore could not have been responsible for all the crimes attributed to it by the Researcher who obviously based his findings on a bias and uninformed point of view.

    “Secondly, the writer of the said article and his Co-sponsors must realized the fact that our nation prides as one of the best security agencies in the continent and beyond. The Nigeria Police Force remains one of the best in the world and they have lived up to expectations in combating crimes, mostly the cybercrimes.

    “We are also taking aback that a reputable institution like; Africa Center For Strategic Studies, National Defense University, Washington DC, would allow such an untrained Researcher like; Matthew La Lime to publish such libelous, unverified and unprofessional article using its platform and website.

    Read Also: Oshiomhole and foreign criminals as labourers

    “We reaffirm our commitment to uphold the integrity of our nation and therefore determined to resist any attempt by a foreign media and its collaborators to dent the reputation of our security agencies by painting a picture of a high violence and crimes in the country before the international community.

    “We hereby wish to pass a vote of confidence on our various security agencies contrary to the wrong motions being created in the said publication 

    “Based on these, we call on the Nigerian government, especially the appropriate agencies in Foreign Policies and Diplomatic Relations to start the process of fishing those behind the sponsored negative write up by the author and all of them to face the international law for attempting to ridicule and disparage the nation.”

  • Oil firm donates over 1,000 sanitary pads, books to school girls in A’Ibom

    Oil firm donates over 1,000 sanitary pads, books to school girls in A’Ibom

    An indigenous oil firm, Oriental Energy Resources LTD, has donated sanitary pads, books and other items to over 1,000 girls in two public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom state.

    Girls from Southern Annang Comprehensive Secondary school, Orukanam and Community Secondary School, Afia Nsit Urua Nko, Nsit Ibom local government areas benefityed.

    The gesture by the OERL, which was carried out during the company’s girl child health education outreach programme for secondary schools in the state, is in commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.

    Managing Director of OERL, Mr. Mustafa Indimi, said that the firm priorities the welfare and education of the girl child in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3.

    Indimi represented by the company’s Director Community Relations, Dr. Uwem Ite, said that OERL believes in investing in the girl child.

    He said: “This is our modest way of marking the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated around the world on Friday,11th October 2025 with the theme, “Girls Vision for the Future. 

    Read Also: Climate Change: Nigeria to double down climate financing, says Minister

    “Against this background, Oriental Energy believes that investing in girls is not only the right thing to do for them but it brings positive impacts particularly to their families, communities and society in general.

    “At Oriental Energy, our philosophy is to create positive sustainable footprints through projects and programmes that improve on the quality of life of people in various communities, including the community of students in this school”.

    Other items presented by the firm included Akwa Ibom state government branded textbooks hand washing items etc.

  • Urhobo has lost a legal icon, Dafinone mours Prof Amos Utuama

    Urhobo has lost a legal icon, Dafinone mours Prof Amos Utuama

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has commiserated with Urhobo Nation, Utuama family and the people of Ughelli South over the death of Prof Amos Utuama (SAN), a former Deputy Governor, who reportedly passed on today at 77.

    Born on June 5, 1947, Utuama was a law teacher for many years, later serving as Deputy Governor from 2007 to 2015 under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan. He was also the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice during Chief James Ibori’s administration.

    The Delta Central lawmaker in a statement said: “It is with a deep sense of loss and sorrow that I, Senator Ede Dafinone, on behalf of Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my condolences to the Urhobo Nation, the Utuama family, and the people of Ughelli South over the passing of Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN), former Deputy Governor of Delta State.

    “Prof. Utuama was an outstanding legal luminary and a cherished son of Urhobo land, leaving an indelible mark on our nation’s legal profession and public service. He was a revered law scholar, dedicated teacher, and a pillar in Delta State’s governance.

    “The Urhobo Nation and the legal community at large have lost an invaluable intellect. Prof. Utuama’s intellectual prowess, sound judgment, and unyielding dedication to the ideals of justice and equality made him an irreplaceable figure. His contributions to the legal profession were not only profound but also transformative, influencing the lives of many who had the privilege of learning from him. His absence will be deeply felt across Delta State and the entire nation.

    Read Also: Dafinone hails Chief T. J. Okpoko at 92

    “While we mourn this great loss, we also take solace in the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of dedication, integrity, and service. Prof. Utuama’s contributions to the Urhobo Nation and Delta State will continue to inspire future generations. His life was one of purpose, and his memory will serve as a beacon of hope and dedication for all who strive for excellence and justice.

    “As we bid farewell to a true son of Urhobo land, I offer my deepest sympathies to the Utuama family. May God grant them the strength to bear this immense loss and may the soul of Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN) rest in perfect peace. His legacy will endure, and he will be remembered with profound respect and admiration.”