The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Eno flags off 32 days of excitement with Christmas unplugged 3.0

    Eno flags off 32 days of excitement with Christmas unplugged 3.0

    Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to harnessing the state’s cultural and tourism potential as a key driver for economic growth and development.

    Speaking at the flag off of Christmas Unplugged 3.0 at the Christmas Village, Unity Park on Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, the Governor said the State was advancing in its tourism development. He said the approval of an international status for the Victor Attah Airport is equally a booster for the sector.

    “Tourism for us is becoming our middle name. As a State, we have advanced the cause of tourism. From the hills of Itu to the beaches of Ibeno, to the relics of Ikot Abasi, we are developing tourism in Akwa Ibom. We are using the things that God has given us. 

    “Ibom Air is opening the way. As you heard the other day, the Victor Attah Airport is now designated as an International Airport, and we are doing all we can to tick all the boxes to ensure that we expand tourism. 

    “We can move people within the sub-region. We are building slowly our tourism potentials. In the next 32 days, we will be relaxing, engage in different activities and having fun, local government by local government, starting from Abak, the Speaker’s Local Government.

    “He will be leading the contingent, beautiful contingent, dressed out with their culture, looking good, as they come out to display the rich culture of Akwa Ibom State. 

    “We are waiting to receive everyone. Akwa Ibom State is ripe, and this is where it will be happening in the next 32 days, back to back,” he said.

    Eno called on Akwa Ibom people and tourism lovers around the world to take advantage of the season to relax, enjoy and savour the rich cultural heritage of the State. 

    “We invite the world to the land of promise inhabited by hospitable people to have a taste of our rich culture, our cuisine;  the Afang soup, the Edikang-ikong, Ekpang nkukwo, the fisherman soup and nice beaches to relax and have fun all around. Ibom Air will fly you in, and fly you back,” stated.

    He assured participants and visitors of a hitch-free celebration, explaining that top notch preparations have been put in place in terms of security and medical emergencies and other logistics to guarantee a successful hosting of the 32 days Christmas Unplugged 3.0.

    Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his passion for tourism development in the State.

    He described Governor Eno as the torch bearer for tourism development in the State, saying that his vision has transformed the State to a choice destination and thanked him for the support granted him to interpret his tourism vision as contained in the ARISE Agenda.

    Speaker Udeme Otong appreciated the Governor for his tourism drive which, according to him, was engaging the youths and growing the economy.

    He said the State legislature had observed the Governor’s commendable focus on tourism, adding that the proposal for tourism development in the 2026 budget would be given the necessary support to advance the cause.

    Head of the State Civil Service, Mrs Elsie Anietie Peters, commended the Governor for his welfare packages for workers, adding that the 13th month salary will enable workers to actively participate in the Christmas Unplugged 3.0 celebration.

    Delivery Advisor to the Governor on Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, recalled that the event was the Governor’s vision born three years ago,  stressing that the fiesta was positively transforming the tourism sector and the economy of the State.

    Chairman of the state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, and Chairman Uyo Local Government Area, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, expressed confidence in this year’s edition of the programme, and commended the Governor for the steady growth of the fiesta .

    He noted that this year’s event will surpass previous editions and thanked the Commissioner, Delivery Advisor and other drivers of the event for their commitment to interpreting the Governor’s vision, and assured that local government chairmen will collaborate effectively with them to ensure a successful outing.

    The event featured different performances and cultural displays, with participants displaying their dance steps with so much joy and laughter

  • Firms hold training on local content compliance

    Firms hold training on local content compliance

    17ASUS Resources Ltd., in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has successfully concluded a training program on local content compliance in procurement and tendering.

    The training, which took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, ended on November 28, 2025.

    The programme aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of local content compliance in procurement and tendering processes within the oil and gas industry.

    This initiative aligns with NCDMB’s commitment to deepening local content development and promoting indigenous participation in the sector.

    Key Takeaways from the training: understanding local content regulations and policies; compliance strategies and best practices; procurement planning and tendering processes; contract management and supplier development

    Abiola Akindolire, COO of 17 Asus Resources Ltd, was full of praise for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, lauding him for his support for the board.

    The NCDMB has been at the forefront of promoting local content development in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

    The board’s Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe has reiterated the organization’s commitment to implementing initiatives that foster local content growth and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

    This training program is part of NCDMB’s efforts to enhance the capacity of Nigerian businesses and professionals in the oil and gas sector.

    By investing in local content development, the board aims to increase the participation of indigenous companies in the industry and promote economic growth.

  • Ironbar praises Otu’s tributes to predecessors 

    Ironbar praises Otu’s tributes to predecessors 

    The Chief of Staff to Governor Bassey Otu, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, has lauded the gesture of his boss, for what he described as Otu’s largeness of heart in bringing his four predecessors together for recognition. 

    Commending Otu for the lighting of the Christmas tree and award night at the Millennium Park, Eleven Eleven Roundabout, Calabar, Ironbar said: “the Governor’s gesture is a reflection of his essence. A man who is an inclusive leader, a unifier and a builder.’

     As a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Calabar Carnival, Otu hosted an unprecedented celebration honouring former Governors Clement Ebri, Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke while unveiling their statues and presentation of prestigious service awards to them.

    Ironbar, visibly moved by the rare convergence of past and present leadership, described the occasion as “a historic crescendo of unity,” noting that never before in the political history of Cross River State had four former governors sat under one canopy to be collectively recognized. “This is not just another ceremony,” he declared. “This is a monumental affirmation of gratitude, orchestrated by a governor whose generosity of spirit is simply unmatched.”

    The Chief of Staff praised Governor Otu for what he called “a towering gesture of statesmanship,” insisting that the governor had demonstrated a leadership philosophy rooted in humility, reconciliation, and institutional respect. “His Excellency has shown today that true greatness celebrates greatness,” Ironbar said. “sublimeHe has elevated the culture of honour to a  new height.”

    As the statues of the former leaders were unveiled—each greeted by a surge of applause, Ironbar noted that Governor Otu’s initiative was not merely symbolic, but transformative. “What we see here,” he said, “is a cathedral of legacy, erected by a man who understands that the past is a partner, not a rival, of the present.”

    He described the Governor’s gesture as “a breathtakingly noble act,” one that would reverberate far beyond Calabar. “Governor Bassey Otu has today inscribed his name boldly in the chronicles of Nigerian political maturity,” he said. “This is the kind of magnanimity that inspires nations and strengthens democracies.”

     Ironbar also highlighted the profound message of unity the event conveyed. “To bring four former governors together, harmoniously, joyfully, respectfully, is an achievement of extraordinary moral intelligence,” he remarked. “His Excellency has shown the rare courage to transcend political divides and celebrate continuity.”

    The gathering of Ebri, Duke, Imoke, and  Ayade, under a single canopy, he said, was a visual metaphor for Otu’s leadership ethos. “This is a symphony of shared service,” Ironbar enthused. “Only a leader with a panoramic understanding of governance could conceive such a majestic unifying moment.”

    As the moon beamed its shimmering light toward the vast concourse at the Millennium Park and the newly unveiled statues, the Chief of Staff intoned  by calling the event “the birth of a new Cross River narrative,” saying: “Today proves that when a leader leads with love, history bows in admiration. Governor Otu has lit a torch of brotherhood that will illuminate this state for generations.”

    The ceremony closed with embraces, handshakes, and a sense of collective renewal, sealing a day widely regarded as one of the most defining political moments in Cross River State’s recent history.

  • Otu honours predecessors, lights up Christmas tree to usher in Yuletide

    Otu honours predecessors, lights up Christmas tree to usher in Yuletide

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu on Sunday night honoured his predecessors when he switched on the 2025 Christmas tree and festive lights at the Calabar Cenotaph, signalling the start of the Christmas season and a renewed spirit of unity and continuity in governance.

    Addressing a colourful gathering of residents, artistes and dignitaries, Governor Otu said the event was not just about bright lights but about celebrating the leadership legacies that shaped the modern Cross River State.

    He praised former Governor Clement Ebri as “the father of modern Cross River,” commending his achievements in agriculture, education, health and infrastructure.

    He also lauded Donald Duke for “redefining Cross River as Nigeria’s tourism capital,” with innovations such as the transformation of Obudu Ranch, creation of Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) and the birth of Carnival Calabar.

    The Governor further celebrated Senator Liyel Imoke for his “administrative excellence” and deep reforms in education, rural development and social welfare, while acknowledging Senator Ben Ayade for his industrialisation drive, innovation and political courage in repositioning the state at the national level.

    “As we illuminate this city, we celebrate their visions and commit to building on them,” Otu said. “My team and I will continue to grow Cross River through human capital development, industrialisation, rural transformation and tourism.”

    Read Also: Gov Otu hails return of Tinapa, says it marks economic rebirth

    He urged citizens to embrace the season with hope: “May our faith shine as a beacon of renewal and prosperity.”

    Former Governor Clement Ebri thanked Otu for sustaining a culture of honour, describing the gesture as uplifting.

    Donald Duke, reflecting on the 20-year journey of Carnival Calabar, said the festival has remained a unifying symbol.

    “The beauty is that it brings all our peoples,diverse as we are, into one unique event where we celebrate ourselves,” he said.

    Senator Liyel Imoke described the gathering as “heartwarming and nostalgic,” commending Otu for his rare commitment to continuity. “It is uncommon for a governor to look back, identify what is good and build on it. That spirit keeps institutions alive,” Imoke noted.

    Former Governor Ben Ayade also applauded Otu for bringing all leaders together irrespective of political divides. “Today is about acknowledging that Sweet Prince Bassey Otu has shown the wisdom to unite us all, beyond party lines,” he said.

  • Jonathan, Akpabio, Pondi to be honoured at Niger Delta peace, meritorious awards

    Jonathan, Akpabio, Pondi to be honoured at Niger Delta peace, meritorious awards

    Arrangements are in top gear for the long-awaited Niger Delta Peace and Meritorious (NDPM) Awards slated for December, an annual platform created to celebrate individuals and institutions advancing peace, development, and innovation across the Niger Delta and Nigeria.

    This year’s edition will confer one of its highest honours on former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who is set to receive the title of Niger Delta Agent of Peace in recognition of his longstanding commitment to unity, stability, and diplomatic engagement both within Nigeria and across the African continent.

    The NDPM Awards highlight outstanding achievements in peacebuilding, leadership, community development, arts, and innovation while inspiring younger generations to model the values and accomplishments of honourees.

    Also set for recognition is President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who will be decorated as Niger Delta Pillar of Peace for his role in championing developmental initiatives and legislative interventions that support socio-economic growth in the region.

    Renowned community leader Chief Keston Pondi will receive the Niger Delta Man of the Year award in acknowledgment of his contributions to community empowerment and regional development. Organisers describe this category as one of the key avenues through which the NDPM Awards encourage emerging leaders to pursue excellence and impactful service.

    Read Also: Jonathan accuses Embaló of orchestrating ‘ceremonial coup’ in Guinea-Bissau

    According to the organisers, the award initiative seeks to showcase the abundant talent, achievements, and innovations of the Niger Delta while fostering stronger collaboration among government bodies, private-sector actors, and grassroots stakeholders.

    The high-profile ceremony will hold on January 13, 2026, at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, and is expected to attract national leaders, development advocates, cultural figures, and captains of industry.

    Organisers further disclosed that preparations have reached advanced stages, with the complete list of honourees and programme schedule to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

  • CCDI nominates Oborevwori for 2026 UN Public Service award

    CCDI nominates Oborevwori for 2026 UN Public Service award

    Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI), has nominated Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, for the 2026 United Nations Public Service Award (UNPSA).

    The nomination was submitted under the thematic focus of Sustainable Development Goal 16-Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

    In a statement by its President and Permanent Representative of CCDI to ECOSOC/United Nations, Comrade Olufemi Aduwo, the UN Public Service Award remains the foremost global recognition for excellence in public administration.

    Aduwo explained that the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) follows a rigorous and multi-stage procedure in selecting recipients of the award.

    According to him, the evaluation process begins with the independent verification of submissions from accredited bodies, followed by technical assessments carried out by international experts in governance, administrative reform, transparency, and institutional accountability.

    Read Also: Oborevwori woos investors, says time to invest in Delta is now

    Nominees who pass this stage are then subjected to a peer review by an intergovernmental panel to ensure that only candidates who demonstrate measurable impact, reformative leadership, and alignment with the SDGs are considered for the final award.

    Aduwo noted that CCDI’s nomination of Oborevwori is based on the governor’s demonstrable efforts to strengthen public institutions, enhance citizen security, deepen community-centred conflict-resolution mechanisms, and widen access to justice across Delta State.

    He added that CCDI’s institutional assessment of governance in the state dates back more than a decade, allowing for an objective comparison between past and current administrative performance.

    He further observed that Oborevwori’s consolidation of peace-building frameworks, prudent management of public finances, and sustained investment in institutional resilience have positioned Delta State as a governance model deserving of international attention.

    The CCDI’s president also recalled that the organisation had previously supported nominations that were eventually successful, including those of Mrs. Amina J. Mohammed in 2015 and Senator Ibikunle Amosun in 2019, each recognised for significant reforms in public-sector administration.

    He stated that the current nomination continues CCDI’s tradition of evidence-based institutional evaluation and strict adherence to United Nations criteria.

    Aduwo expressed confidence that Governor Oborevwori’s record satisfies the high standards of integrity, innovation, transparency, and societal impact required of UNPSA laureates.

  • DESOPADEC renews anti-drug, anti-cult campaigns in Delta schools

    DESOPADEC renews anti-drug, anti-cult campaigns in Delta schools

    In a renewed effort to address the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse, as well as cult-related activities among teenagers, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has launched an intensified sensitization initiative across secondary schools in Ndokwa Nation of the state. 

    Spearheaded by Chief Festus Ochonogor, the Managing Director/CEO, this latest outreach is part of a broader strategy to protect adolescent well-being in oil-producing areas.

    On November 28, 2025, the commission visited Ebologu Grammar School and St. Kizito College in Utagba-Uno. 

    During those sessions, students were provided with crucial, practical information regarding the dangers associated with drug misuse and the detrimental long-term effects of cultism.

    The Community Development and Public Enlightenment Department of DESOPADEC emphasized that this campaign plays an essential role in the Commission’s youth development blueprint. 

    They highlighted the significant threats that drug abuse and cultism pose to education, community advancement, and the overall mental health of young people. 

    The outreach aims to foster awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices among the youth in the state.

    Head of the Department, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, explained that the sensitisation exercise aligned with the mandate of the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; DESOPADEC Board Chairman, Olorogun Obukowho John Nani; MD/CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor; and the Executive Director, Social Services, Chief Favour Izoukumor. 

    She commended Comrade Esumike Harrison Nnamdi, Principal of Ebologu Grammar School, and Chief Ossai A. John, Vice Principal of St. Kizito College, for mobilising their students for the programme.

    Delivering a goodwill message, Ochonogor urged students to take the campaigns seriously and stay vigilant against the lure of drugs and cultism.

    He stated, “Drug abuse destroys potential. It weakens the mind, damages health, and cultism equally robs bright young people of the opportunity to become their best selves. But each of you carries a unique gift—your families, community, and our State are depending on you to rise and shine.”

    Facilitators Ms. Elizabeth Odisu and Ms. Honeywell Eburajolor led interactive sessions addressing peer pressure, common entry points into drug abuse, cult influence, prostitution, emotional challenges, and the ripple effects of addiction on homes and society. 

    Students were encouraged to cultivate discipline, embrace positive peer influence, and pursue purposeful living as shields against destructive behaviours.

    School authorities from both schools expressed appreciation to DESOPADEC for selecting their institutions for the sensitisation drive, describing the outreach as timely and impactful. 

    They appealed for the programme to be sustained for the benefit of younger generations.

    Several students also shared their gratitude, noting that the sessions clarified issues they had either misunderstood or never deeply considered.

    DESOPADEC reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its school and community sensitisation efforts across its mandate areas, with the goal of nurturing healthier, more informed communities and empowering young people to make responsible life choices.

  • Niger Delta watchdog dismisses claims of ₦1tn PIA fund loss

    Niger Delta watchdog dismisses claims of ₦1tn PIA fund loss

    …warns against misleading narratives 

    An oil and gas accountability group, the Niger Delta Accountability and Resource Protection Network (NDARPN), has dismissed claims by the House of Representatives Committee on the South South Development Commission alleging that Nigeria’s failure to implement key funding provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has cost the region over ₦1 trillion.

    In a statement released on Friday in Port Harcourt, the organisation’s president, Comrade Ebikabo West, described the committee’s allegations as “sensational, misleading and potentially damaging to the investment stabilisation the PIA has steadily cultivated.”

    West maintained that the implementation of the PIA by relevant regulatory bodies, especially regarding host community development funds and environmental responsibilities, has been more effective and transparent than any mechanism that existed before the Act.

    He cautioned lawmakers against political commentary capable of “eroding investor confidence or disrupting the delicate progress achieved so far.”

    “It is simply inaccurate to suggest that the Niger Delta has been denied trillions because the funds are not being operated in the dramatic fashion being portrayed,” West stated.

    According to him, the host communities development provisions of the PIA are being “effectively and rigorously monitored”, with a regulatory system that guarantees communities direct benefits backed by strong oversight and traceability.

    He explained that the PIA introduced enforceable obligations that regulators now monitor with far stronger compliance tools than those available in the pre-PIA era. 

    West added that the narrative of “non-implementation” ignores verifiable progress recorded across host communities and in environmental management.

    “We must be careful not to weaponise environmental concerns or misrepresent regulatory processes. Such portrayals undermine the credibility of reforms and weaken the collective fight for environmental justice,” he cautioned.

    Read Also: Nigeria targets higher global inflows with shorter settlement cycle

    West also stressed that Nigeria is gradually restoring the confidence of multinational oil companies that had exited the country due to prolonged regulatory uncertainty, conflicting directives and institutional pressure that previously “strangled investment.”

    “After decades of instability, Nigeria now has a predictable legislative and fiscal framework. It is only reasonable to allow the relevant agencies to execute their mandates strictly within the provisions of the PIA. Dragging them into political theatrics will jeopardise the gradual return of investor confidence,” he added.

    While acknowledging the importance of the National Assembly’s oversight function, NDARPN urged that such interventions must be evidence-driven and not based on assumptions that could fuel confusion or tension within the sector.

    “What the Niger Delta needs is consolidation, not disruption. Let the institutions empowered by the PIA continue their work without undue pressure. That is the surest path to accountability, environmental protection and sustainable development,” West advised.

  • Delta First Lady donates wheelchairs, medical supplies at special-needs outreach

    Delta First Lady donates wheelchairs, medical supplies at special-needs outreach

    …as paediatrician warns 50% of Nigerian children are micronutrient deficient

    In a major show of support for children with special needs, the wife of the Delta State Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation (YMCF), Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Friday donated free medication, wheelchairs, and a variety of assistive and educational devices to beneficiaries.

    The donations were made during the flag-off of a free medical outreach for special-needs children and their caregivers in Ughelli, Delta Central.

    The outreach, organised by the You Matter Charity Foundation in partnership with the Delta State Ministry of Health and the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, featured medical check-ups, nutrition counselling, disability support services, and the distribution of mobility and learning tools aimed at improving access to care, independence, and overall well-being.

    Addressing parents and caregivers, Deaconess Oborevwori called for an end to the culture of hiding children with special needs, saying the practice is harmful and rooted in ignorance. She stressed that no child should be isolated or denied visibility, care, and affection.

    “It is not their fault. Every child deserves love, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

    She expressed deep concern over the widespread stigma surrounding Autism and other developmental conditions, noting that many children are kept away from school and medical care due to fear of judgment.

    “Autistic people are everyday people who live among us. Autism is not a spiritual problem or an illness looking for a cure. It is a condition that can be managed with understanding, compassion, and the right professional support,” she explained.

    The First Lady stated that the state-wide medical outreach is designed not only to provide care but also to raise awareness, confront misinformation, and encourage parents to seek early help.

    She urged mothers to show courage by bringing their children forward for support rather than hiding them.

    She reiterated her Foundation’s commitment to advocating for children with special needs and called on families, community groups, and institutions to work together in building a more inclusive Delta State.

    Delivering health talks during the outreach, Dr. Ifeoma Udeh, Consultant Paediatrician at Asaba Specialist Hospital, warned that about 50% of Nigerian children are micronutrient deficient, citing economic pressure, poor feeding choices, and cultural beliefs as major contributors.

    She stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and early nutrition.

    Similarly, Dr. Bolum-Okolie Angela, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist, echoed the First Lady’s message and urged parents to prioritise education, healthcare, and emotional support for children living with disabilities, noting that early intervention significantly improves long-term outcomes.

    Medical personnel were on the ground to conduct examinations and offer professional guidance, as the outreach continued the Foundation’s mission of bringing hope, visibility, and essential support to children with special needs across the state.

  • Ayo Oke: NDi commends Tinubu over ambassadorial nomination

    Ayo Oke: NDi commends Tinubu over ambassadorial nomination

    The National Development Initiative (NDi) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating Ambassador Ayodele Oke as one of the candidates for ambassadorial appointments recently forwarded to the Senate.

    In a statement by its Chair on Policy and Strategic Development, Engr. Olatunji Ariyomo, FNSE, the Think Tank described Ambassador Oke as “one of the few experts in international multilateral diplomacy and strategic intelligence ever produced by Nigeria in its 65 years of nationhood.”

    According to the NDi, Ambassador Oke is “a distinguished career diplomat with over three decades of multifaceted experience in international diplomacy, foreign affairs, intelligence, and national security.”

    Ariyomo praised President Tinubu for what he called a meticulous and patriotic search, noting that “the challenges confronting Nigeria today demand profound knowledge, vast experience, patriotism, and the ability to mobilise our friends and partners across the world.”

    Responding to renewed attempts to undermine the nomination on the basis of the 2017 incident involving the EFCC and the US$43 million operational funds discovered at the Osborne Towers in Ikoyi, Lagos, the NDi said: “We are aware of the narrative being recycled. However, from a position of knowledge, we can state categorically that the promoters of such narratives are largely driven by profound ignorance.”

    The statement emphasised that Ambassador Oke was “a victim of a malicious plot” in the episode, adding: “He was targeted because of his counter-intelligence against internal sabotage and security contradictions in our war against terror. He was equally a victim of his state of origin and ethnicity – an evil we must collectively strive to purge from our national psyche.
    Time has since vindicated him, as Nigeria continues to grapple with asymmetric warfare and internal destabilisation in 2025.”

    According to the Think Tank, this context makes President Tinubu’s decision both significant and commendable. “Beyond the obvious merit of the nomination, Mr President has corrected a grievous public injustice. He has righted a fatal public wrong. President Tinubu has remedied an identity-based rift from 2017 in which statutory intelligence-finance procedures were criminalised simply to justify the removal of Oke as Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).”

    Read Also: Tinubu felicitates Olubaka of Oka-Akoko on Ihare festival, 82nd birthday

    The NDi further noted that it “was the tradition before Oke, and it remains the tradition after Oke, that the national intelligence service – Nigeria’s equivalent of the CIA – maintains cash outside conventional due-process channels. That is the nature of intelligence work. The EFCC knew this. President Buhari, who presided over the matter, also knew this. Even the NSA at the time did not contradict Oke’s assertion that the money was meant for covert operations and NIA activities. The NSA only stated that the procedure could be abused in the future. Thus, once Oke had been removed, the President merely invited both the EFCC and Oke, and all cases against Oke were quietly discontinued. Mission accomplished.”

    “Only wilful or astonishing ignorance would prevent any educated observer from seeing that the former NIA Director-General was deliberately targeted because of his seat,” the organisation concluded.