A clash between Itsekiri youths of Ugborodo and neighbouring Ogidigben riverine Itsekiri communities in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, at the weekend, left one person dead and a house burnt.
The victim, Emiko Onuwaje, was reportedly attacked and killed along a road in Ogidigben, an incident that triggered outrage and heightened tension across the Ugborodo axis.
Hours after the killing, the residence of Capt. John Deja Okpeyor was set ablaze by angry youths. Okpeyor had earlier the same day been installed as a chief of the Warri Kingdom.
As of press time, details surrounding the incident remained sketchy. However, the killing and subsequent arson occurred amid reports of a youth leadership tussle in Ogidigben, which allegedly led to the mobilisation of youths to confront perceived opponents within the community.
Community sources, however, maintained that Onuwaje was not involved in any mobilisation or attack on any residence. They said he was assaulted and killed on the road by unknown assailants, describing the incident as a criminal act that should not be linked to wider community disputes.
Security presence was reportedly reinforced in parts of Ugborodo and Ogidigben to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, for comments were unsuccessful as calls and a text message sent to him were yet to be responded to. However, it was gathered that at least four suspects had been arrested in connection with the killing of Onuwaje.
Niger Delta stakeholders have renewed calls for a comprehensive, sustained environmental remediation of the Niger Delta and a “strategic” reorientation of youth education.
They warned that failure to act could jeopardise the region’s future and Nigeria’s long-term stability.
The call was made at the 2nd Media Conference of the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) in Warri, Delta state, where the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador Godknows Igali, delivered a keynote address titled “Safeguarding Niger Delta Natural Resources for Future Generations.”
The IPF conference, which brought together media professionals, political leaders, including Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Emomotimi Guwor (both represented), youth activists among others, saw stakeholders commit to redefining the Niger Delta narrative beyond oil dependency.
Igali stressed that while oil and gas had defined the Niger Delta’s global relevance, the region’s future depended on environmental justice, human capital development, and diversification beyond hydrocarbons.
“Studies abound to affirm that the Niger Delta is the most polluted place in the world. This must be addressed squarely by the Federal Government and the polluters and their successors through a conscious policy of sustained remediation,” Igali said.
He argued that remediation efforts must go far beyond the Ogoni clean-up project, “which is a mere pilot project. This must go across the entire Niger Delta.”
Igali identified education as the most critical tool for safeguarding the region’s natural wealth and securing intergenerational prosperity.
According to him, the Niger Delta states are underinvesting in education despite their enormous revenues, urging state governments to meet the UNESCO benchmark of 26 per cent budgetary allocation to education.
He said, “In 2025, the six Niger Delta states budgeted a total of ₦546 billion for education out of a combined ₦6.38 trillion budget. This is grossly inadequate,” he noted, warning that without a well-educated population, the region risks losing competitiveness.
“If we have an educated population, we can dominate the labour market in Nigeria and perhaps all of Africa.”
On his part, former President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Udengs Eradiri, raised concerns about security, youth unemployment, and the need to realign educational priorities, particularly within the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).
On education, he argued that training must be deliberately linked to employable skills, especially with the possible end of the PAP.
Eradiri called for a shift towards technical, maritime, aviation, robotics, petrochemical, and port logistics training.
Abigborodo community in Warri North council area of Delta State, has called on the government to take a definite decision on the white paper report of their alleged ownership of Ugbekoko and Uton Iyatsere lands in Sapele council area.
The community is demanding an immediate halt to ongoing pipeline installations by Seplat Energy Plc in the area, until the company engages the community as host to its oil facilities in oil mining lease (OML) 41.
At a news conference at the community’s town hall, the people warned against deployment of security agents to intimidate or suppress their legitimate protests over its lands in Ugbekoko, Uton Iyatsere and Abigborodo.
Leaders of the community accused the company of proceeding with new pipeline projects without consultation, despite repeated petitions and documentary evidence establishing Abigborodo’s ownership of the affected lands.
They said the actions of the company were in violation of the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021 and the Host Communities Development Regulations of 2022, which mandate oil companies to engage and recognise their host communities.
Further calling on the Delta State Government to urgently implement the white paper arising from a Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Okpe Sobo Forest Reserve, published in gazette no. 1 of 2021, they claimed it affirmed Abigborodo’s ownership of the disputed lands and made recommendations for recognition and compensation.
They also drew attention to the report of the Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Committee set up to investigate complaints against Seplat, which reportedly concluded that Abigborodo and Ugbekoko are host communities.
According to them, the failure of government to act on the committee’s findings had left the community marginalised and excluded from benefits accruing from oil operations in the area.
“The commencement of pipeline operations without resolving earlier disputes leaves much to be desired,” the community declared, warning that such actions could fuel communal crises and social unrest in the Niger Delta.
Answering questions from reporters, the chairman of the Abigborodo Management Committee, Misan Ukubehinje Esq., stated that unless SEPLAT engages meaningfully with Abigborodo, tensions could escalate.
The Oku Ibom of Ibibio, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr) Solomon Daniel Etuk, has called on the Ibibios and Akwa Ibom people to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa ibom state.
He made the made the call at the 58th General Assembly of the Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio organisation, held at its International Secretariat Uyo at the weekend.
The monarch said that Tinubu and Eno are repositioning Nigeria and Akwa Ibom State for greater glory, peace and sustainable development.
His Eminence Etuk is also the President-General of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and Grand Patron of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio.
He commended the International President of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Akparawa James Edet, NPOM, for his exceptional, purposeful and unifying leadership, noting that the organisation has recorded renewed strength, cohesion and global visibility under his stewardship.
He urged members to sustain unity, warned against disunity and backstabbing, and encouraged Ibibio sons and daughters to support one another for collective advancement.
The monarch also acknowledged the historic role played by Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio in the unity and development of Akwa Ibom State and bestowed royal blessings on members.
In his welcome address, Akparawa James Edet, NPOM, paid tribute to the foresight of the organisation’s founding fathers and highlighted key milestones of his administration, including the upgrade of facilities at the Mboho Unity Schools, improvements at the International Secretariat, and enhanced welfare and administrative systems within the organisation.
He also highlighted the execution of intervention projects at the Mboho Unity Schools, carried out in partnership with various chapters, notably Houston, New York, Dallas, London and Connecticut, describing the initiatives as strong expressions of unity, commitment and shared responsibility.
The International President further outlined his administration’s achievements in global expansion and diaspora integration, announcing the establishment of new chapters in Phoenix, New Jersey, Ireland, Ikorodu, Uyo Metropolitan, Toronto, Calgary and Connecticut. He described the expansion as “a formidable pillar of unity, growth and international visibility.”
Addressing challenges confronting the organisation, Akparawa Edet expressed concern over the destruction of Mboho’s legacy property in Lagos but urged members to remain calm, assuring them that the matter is being handled through appropriate channels at the highest level.
On national issues, he raised concern over banditry, insurgency, kidnapping and other violent crimes threatening national stability and economic growth, and called for collective vigilance, renewed patriotism and full cooperation with security agencies.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence, describing it as “a round peg in a round hole,” and urged broad national support for his efforts.
He praised Governor Eno for the upgrade of the Victor Attah Airport to full international status, noting its benefits for aviation, tourism, commerce and global visibility, and acknowledged the governor’s achievements under the ARISE Agenda across infrastructure, agriculture, education, social welfare and rural development.
He also commended the cordial working relationship between President Tinubu, Governor Eno and the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing the synergy as a stabilising force that enhances political stability and development prospects for Akwa Ibom State and the nation.
He further applauded the appointment of Senator Ita Solomon Enang as Ambassador-designate and appealed for greater inclusion of qualified Ibibio sons and daughters in federal appointments.
The International President appealed to political leaders across party and ethnic divides to exercise restraint in words and conduct, rise above bitterness, and place the collective wellbeing of Nigerians above all other considerations, emphasising that the true strength of the nation rests on unity of purpose and sincerity of service.
The General Assembly concluded with the Presidential Night of Distinction and End-of-Year Gala, during which past leaders were honoured for their enduring contributions and legacy, while some chapters and distinguished members were also recognised for their outstanding service and commitment to the organisation. Members and guests later celebrated in an atmosphere of music, dance and fellowship.
Former Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has commended Abia Governor, Alex Otti, for what he described as a visible and massive transformation of Aba and other major cities in the State through renewed infrastructure development and improved urban sanitation.
Senator Ibok Essien, who is also the Founder of Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, made the remark while driving through Aba and Umuahia en route to neighbouring Rivers State.
He observed with delight that the scale and pace of work carried out by the Otti administration within just over two years deserved sincere commendation.
He singled out the turnaround of Aba’s urban roads and drainage projects, including the reconstruction of the once dilapidated Port Harcourt Road, now expanded into a modern six-lane carriageway with streetlights, roundabouts and proper drainage, describing it as the restoration of a major economic artery abandoned for decades.
Drawing from personal experience, the elder statesman recalled that he was part of the team of engineers that supervised the original construction of Aba Urban Roads and Drainages by MCC, which included the Port Harcourt Road in Aba between 1979 and 1983, when Abia was under the old Imo State and governed by the late Sam Mbakwe, the first elected civilian governor of the State.
He observed that since that period, the roads and much of Aba’s infrastructure suffered prolonged neglect, making the current expansion and upgrade a landmark intervention that has restored connectivity and eased movement across the commercial city.
The Fellow, Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) also praised the remodelling and reconstruction of the Ariaria International Market by Governor Otti, saying the project has repositioned Aba as a modern commercial hub with facilities that meet international standards.
He further noted the construction of several roads in Umuahia, the evacuation of long-standing refuse dumps, and the general improvement in sanitation across the State, stressing that these efforts have returned Aba and other urban centres to functional and livable conditions.
According to him, the fact that Aba has become passable again after decades of deplorable roads is a clear indication of purposeful leadership. He added that with the speed at which Governor Otti is driving development, Abia is steadily reclaiming its place as a leading economic and industrial centre in the South-East.
The immediate-past National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), also called for sustained public support for Governor Otti, noting that development thrives best when leaders are encouraged by the people.
The first Akwa Ibom legislator to be elected into the ECOWAS parliament equally commended the synergy between Governor Otti and his Akwa Ibom counterpart, Pastor Umo Eno, saying both leaders have demonstrated a shared commitment to urban renewal and people-centric governance, which deserves collective support in their respective states.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed profound sadness over the passing of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by his special adviser on media and communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Senator Lokpobiri described the loss as significant for Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta region, and the nation.
He praised the late deputy governor as a dedicated public servant whose career reflected loyalty, integrity, and a strong commitment to the development of Bayelsa State.
“From his years as Commissioner to his service in the Senate and later as Deputy Governor, Senator Ewhrudjakpo gave his all to the progress of our State,” the Minister said.
Senator Lokpobiri noted that the Deputy Governor’s contributions to governance “remain etched in the history of Bayelsa,” adding that his passing is “a collective tragedy felt far beyond his immediate family.”
He extended condolences to Governor Douye Diri, the widow, Barr. (Mrs.) Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, their children, the wider Ewhrudjakpo family, the Ofoni community, and the people of Bayelsa State.
The Minister prayed for comfort for the bereaved and for eternal rest for the late Deputy Governor. “May God console the family and grant his soul eternal rest,” he said.
The Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has expressed sorrow over the sudden death of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.
Dafinone described his passing as “a monumental loss to the Urhobo Nation, Bayelsa State, and Nigeria at large,” in a statement made available to reporters in Warri, Friday.
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly collapsed on Thursday and died shortly after at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa. His death has thrown the Urhobo Nation and the wider Niger Delta region into mourning.
Senator Dafinone said he received the news “with deep shock and profound sadness,” noting that the late Deputy Governor was “a principled politician, a committed public servant, and a distinguished son of Urhobo who carried himself with dignity, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to the service of his people.”
He praised Ewhrudjakpo’s contributions to governance, community development, and national unity, noting his political journey “reflected a lifetime of service rooted in integrity, hard work, and devotion to the common good.”
According to Dafinone, the void created by the deputy governor’s death will be “difficult to fill,” given his humility, forthrightness, and commitment to public service.
The senator extended condolences to the Ewhrudjakpo family, the Urhobo Nation, the Government and people of Bayelsa State, and all who admired the late leader.
He urged the bereaved to take solace in the impact he made during his lifetime, noting that “he lived a purposeful life, touched many lives, and left behind a legacy of honour and service that will endure.”
The Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council has kicked against chiefs of the 24 kingdoms joining parallel associations.
It said defaulters will face sanctions.
The resolution was reached at a meeting of the monarchs on Tuesday, at the Ovie of Oghara’s palace, Ethiope West council area of Delta state.
Speaking on behalf of the council, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Majesty Udurhie I outlined the decisions reached during the session.
He said the monarchs were concerned about the rise of rival chieftaincy groups.
“We are now aware that there are a lot of split-up groups who call themselves Urhobo Traditional Chiefs Association. Others say they are in several names. But this communiqué is issued to put a stop to that unnecessary acrimony,” the royal father stated.
Reaffirming the established hierarchy, he said the traditional structure remained inviolable, adding: “Every chief in each kingdom are members of the traditional council of that kingdom. Hence, no Urhobo chief is allowed outside his kingdom to go and form a parallel chieftaincy association.”
He said the directive carries firm consequences for defaulters.
A socio-cultural advocate group, the Izon Cultural Heritage Centre (ICHC), has expressed concern over the ongoing oversight issues between the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), particularly regarding the summons issued to the Programme’s Coordinator, Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro.
The group said ICHC as a cultural institution committed to peace building, social stability, and the preservation of the Niger Delta’s collective interests, recognised the constitutional mandate of the National Assembly to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public institutions, saying oversight must be conducted, and public officials must provide clarifications when required.
However, the ICHC Chairman, Apostle Bodmas Kenepadei, strongly advised that the tone, manner, and escalating posture of the Committee risk creating unintended tensions in a region that has, through considerable sacrifices and deliberate efforts, enjoyed unprecedented peace in recent years.
The Nigerian Army has announced the promotion of an Akwa Ibom son, Brigadier General Ime O. Bassey to the rank of Major General.
The elevation was confirmed in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, who described Bassey as an accomplished infantry officer with extensive field experience and exceptional academic credentials.
Commissioned into the Infantry Corps in 1999, Major General Bassey has participated in multiple national and international operations.
His combat and peacekeeping record spans ECOMOG and UN missions in Sierra Leone and Liberia, as well as major Nigerian operations including Op Hakuri (Cameroon–Nigeria border, Gembu), Op Pulo Shield (Niger Delta), Op Lafiya Dole and Op Hadin Kai (North-East), and Op Sweep/Mesa (North-West).
He has held several key command and instructional appointments, among them Platoon Commander, Company Commander, Chief Instructor at the Amphibious Training School, Adjutant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Battalion Commander, Brigade Commander, and most recently Director, Nigerian Army Operations Centre at Army Headquarters, a central role responsible for coordinating and monitoring operations nationwide.
Major General Bassey’s academic profile is also distinguished. He holds four Master’s Degrees across various fields, including advanced studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy (Kaduna), the National Open University of Nigeria and King’s College London. He also earned a Ph.D in Public Leadership and Governance from the Leadership Centre, University of Abuja.
His educational journey began at Central Primary School, Okopedi Okobo, Zion Primary School Oron, Central Primary School Ikono, Christ the King Primary School Uyo, and Central Primary School Itak, before attending Lutheran High School, Ikot Obong Edong and Lutheran High School, Obot Idim, Uyo.
He later began his Bachelor’s degree in English at the University of Uyo and left three months after to be trained as a regular combatant with a B. Sc in Political Science and Defence Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
The newly promoted Major General hails from Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He is known to enjoy golf, long-distance trekking, photography, and nature exploration. A devoted Christian, he is married and blessed with four children.
Bassey’s elevation comes as part of the Army Council’s 2025 promotion cycle, which saw over 50 senior officers rise to new ranks across AFN in a broad restructuring of operational, intelligence, and administrative commands.
His promotion underscores the Army’s drive to reinforce its central operations architecture amid evolving national security challenges.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, congratulated the newly promoted officers and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and unwavering loyalty to the Constitution.
He emphasised the need for renewed commitment to tackling evolving security challenges and safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.
The promotions are expected to bolster the Army’s operational leadership and enhance ongoing efforts to strengthen national security.
