The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Ijaw chief Oluba hails Tinubu for reconciling Wike, Fubara

    Ijaw chief Oluba hails Tinubu for reconciling Wike, Fubara

    An Ijaw chief from Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State, Chief Timi  Oluba has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reconciling Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike and Governor of Rivers State,  Sim Fubara.

    Tinubu on Thursday in the Presidential Villa, held a peace meeting where the rift between Wike, Fubara and members of Rivers State House of Assembly was put to rest.

    Oluba, also Chairman of Akpata-Gbegbe, an oil producing community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, appreciated High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo for contributing toward the reconciliation of Wike and Fubara.

    Read Also: Tinubu: bus terminals will curtail ‘one-chance,’  ease traffic woes in FCT  

    Oluba noted that during his birthday celebration, Tompolo had assured Ijaw Nation and Niger Deltans that efforts were being made to resolve the dispute between Wike and Fubara, which he described as “Father and Son” misunderstanding.

    He further thanked Wike, Fubara and Members of Rivers State House of Assembly for showing understanding and agreeing to work together.

    Oluba, in a statement on Friday in Warri, Delta State, called on the people of Rivers State to sustain the prevailing peace in the State, as Wike and Fubara have reconciled to move Rivers State forward.

  • Urhobo, Ijaw coalition demands release of final Warri delineation report

    Urhobo, Ijaw coalition demands release of final Warri delineation report

    A group, Coalition for Urhobo/Ijaw Integrity and Justice (CUIIJ) has reiterated demand for the release of the final wards and units delineation report of Warri Federal Constituency by the Independent National Electoral Commission as ordered by the Supreme Court.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the CUIIJ expressed concern that interested parties were “abusing their proximity to power to frustrate the release of the final delineation report.”

    The statement was signed by CUIIJ President, Tega Marvelous, and Secretary, Godknows Ebimene.

    Calling on the Federal Government to “resist external and internal interference and allow justice to take its rightful place,” they called on the international community and human rights bodies “to watch closely and call out ethnic oppression disguised as political lobbying.”

    The group maintained that completing the delineation process was in the interest of “justice and equity” for all stakeholders.

    Read Also: 74 houses razed, several killed in Ijaw communities

    “The final judgment of the Supreme Court on the long-awaited Warri Federal Constituency delineation was clear. It was decisive. It was just. Yet, what we are witnessing today is a coordinated, shameless and desperate attempt by the Itsekiri ethnic group to upend this justice through manipulation, political pressure and falsehood.

    “They have run to international bodies, feeding them lies and fabrications of insecurity in the region, when in truth, it is they who continue to provoke conflict by refusing to accept peaceful outcomes,” parts of the statement read.

    They restated that the Urhobo and Ijaw people are neither “strangers,” nor “squatters” in Warri, but owners of the land, adding that no “twisted propaganda or political muscle can rewrite that truth.

    “For years, we have walked the path of peace. We have respected the courts. We have allowed legal processes to run their course, even while being provoked, harassed and marginalized. But this, this right here, this deliberate sabotage of a Supreme Court directive is the final insult to our patience.”

  • Gender inclusivity: NDDC, others seek urgent reforms

    Gender inclusivity: NDDC, others seek urgent reforms

    There is a need to empower women to drive sustainable development, experts have said.

    They spoke at the International Women’s Day celebration organised by Womanhood Outreach International and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    Speakers called for a new deal for Nigerian women.

    The event was held at Wetland Hotel in Ughelli, Delta State with the theme: “Accelerating Action  Investing in Women, Advancing Rights, Leadership & Equality.”

    Mrs. Imoni Ahunna, Director of Youth, Sports, Culture, and Women Affairs at NDDC, argued that “women must no longer remain at the background”.

    According to her, the time has come for women to step into national conversations, lead advocacy, and drive the change we seek.

    Her words: “At the NDDC, we are not just celebrating women; we are investing in their power to transform the region.”

    Keynote speaker, Dr. Clara D. Moemeke, Associate Professor of Science Education at the University of Delta, Agbor, stressed that society can no longer pretend that gender equity does not matter.

    “Gender equity is not inevitable, it is intentional. It is driven by bold policies, courageous advocacy, and deliberate investment. 

    “When we delay gender action, we delay national development,” Dr. Moemeke said.

    She pointed to statistics which shows that women make up nearly 50 per cent of the global population, yet own only 20 per cent of land, perform 76 per cent of unpaid care work, and remain underrepresented in leadership, with Nigeria ranking 125th out of 146 countries on the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index.

    Dr. Moemeke challenged the audience to look beyond the celebration and brainstorm on solutions: “This theme is not a slogan—it is a mandate. Imagine a world where girls complete school without fear of marriage or violence, where women lead without bias, and where every voice matters”

    She offered a poignant reminder: “Every time we underinvest in women, we undercut our democracy, our economy, and our humanity. This is not a charity callnow it is a strategic imperative.”

    On her part, Prof. Mary Olire Edema of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, argued that women’s leadership is not a luxury it is essential. According to her “empowering women is a catalyst for sustainable development.

    “Leadership must begin with access access to education, to finance, to political platforms, and to safety”

    She called for a cultural shift, saying, “We must move past a society where women join groups to receive handouts and into a generation no where women lead cooperatives, industries, and institutions.”

    Dr. Olufunke Chenube of the University of Delta reminded participants that gender inequality is deeply rooted in historical exclusion. “When you exclude half the population from leadership for generations, you don’t just hurt women you cripple national progress.

    “The laws, the systems, the economy all reflect this inherited bias”, she said.

    Other speakers harped on economic empowerment, inclusive governance, gender-based violence, and the urgent need for legal reforms.

    The event featured real-life testimonies and experiences shared by some survivors of gender- based abuses.Women trailblazers in politics and business also shared their experiences.They called for a Nigeria where laws protect, leadership includes, and every girl is raised to believe that her voice belongs not in the background, but at the decision-making table.

    One of the most striking voices came from a widow and small-scale farmer, Blessing Okoro from Patani council area of the state who declared: “Today, I saw myself in these women. I don’t need permission to lead I need opportunity.”

  • Screening/auditioning exercise for Miss N/Delta NDDC anniversary edition concluded in Rivers

    Screening/auditioning exercise for Miss N/Delta NDDC anniversary edition concluded in Rivers

    Screening and auditioning exercise for Miss Niger Delta Beauty Pageant, (NDDC 25th anniversary), edition has successfully been concluded, in the three selected States and centre, he Organisers revealed.

    The States are Edo, Imo and Rivers, that of Rivers held in Port Harcourt, the State capital with over 100 intended contestants in attendance.

    In a statement in Port Harcourt by the Coordinator of the exercise, Prince Sodin Akiagba, the exercise was well attended in each of the centres, adding that names of those who emerged successful in the screening would soon be published.

    He noted that the pageant is basically to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the people of the region, as well as to celebrate the great jobs NDDC is doing in the communities and the commitment to empower girl children and female youths of the Niger Delta areas.

    READ ALSO: Why is Nasir El-Rufai so desperate?

    Akiagba thanked the NDDC for its commitments in promoting value orientation and empowering young women through initiatives like the Miss Niger Delta pageant, adding that the Commission’s sponsorship and commitments to the course has continued to open doors of opportunity and transformation for young women across the region.

    “We thank God for grace and mercy, we’ve just concluded the screeing and audition exercise for Miss Niger Delta NDDC 25th anniversary edition. The committee has gone to eight other States, and we have just concluded the Screening exercise for Port Harcourt.

    “At the Port Harcourt centre we had over a hundred intended contenders for the anniversary Beauty pageant edition.

    “We cannot thank NDDC enough, it is all about orientation of value, promotion of self esteem, capacity building/skills acquisition and then to identify a talented female youth of the Niger Delta that wear the crown of the Miss Niger Delta, our Ambassador for peace an development, we’re celebrating NDDC for remarkable achievements over this 25 years.”

    Speaking further, Akiagba said, “the 25th anniversary edition promises to be a spectacular celebration of culture, purpose, and the evolving strength of the Niger Delta woman.

    “At the main event, one proud Daughter and female youths of the Niger Delta will be crowned Miss Niger Delta, NDDC 25TH Anniversary Queen, Our Ambassador for Peace and Development , serving as a role model for promotion of positive values, self esteem and true identity of the girl child and female in the Niger Delta.

    “Well done NDDC for promoting orientation of values, capacity building, skills acquisition for the youths and more.” he expressed.

    He urged contestants and the public to always visit the official Miss Niger Delta online platform for further information on the exercise.

  • Niger Delta monarch urges investigation of anti-Tantita protest’s sponsors

    Niger Delta monarch urges investigation of anti-Tantita protest’s sponsors

    Niger-Delta monarch, His Majesty Udurhie I, Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, has condemned the protest against private surveillance firm, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), with a call for investigation of the “sponsors”.

    The royal father, who is the Chairman of the Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSCON) Traditional Rulers and Elders Advisory, while addressing reporters on Tuesday, called on the federal government and security agencies to unravel those behind the protest, which, according to him, is aimed at disrupting oil and gas production.

    “Their activity is nothing short of criminals coming out openly to identify their intentions and those behind the unending pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.

    “If not, how could someone who wishes our great country well come out to carry out such an evil campaign without shame or realising the consequences of their evil action?                       

    “Why campaign for the cancellation of Tantita Security Services Limited when many others who were awarded the same job with no visible performance are retaining their job?

    “The question to be asked is why Tantita, and when has good job performance become a crime in Nigeria?          

    “For Nigerians who do not know the sorry state of the Niger Delta environment, the water body and the loss of aquatic lives and even the low oil production was due principally to criminal vandalisation and open stealing of crude oil that almost brought our nation’s economy to its knees and the current situation that will truly understand whose interest these elements represent.   

    “High Chief Government Ekpemupolo’s boldness, courage and risk to protecting sensitive, critical national oil/ gas installations should be commended by all who wish the Nigeria economy and the Niger Delta environment well.

    Read Also: Niger Delta monarchs unite against vandalism, oil theft

    “These faceless sponsored elements should hide their heads in shame because Tantita has brought an end to their evil enterprise.             

    “How on earth can someone protest against a security project simply because their sources of evil wealth have been blocked by a courageous individual hired by the federal government to protect its installations?   

    “The best way to reward High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo and his Tantita Security Services Limited is to expand the current scope of the job and grant more areas to be covered that will help the company to employ more of our able-bodied youths from the streets.

    “The fast return of aquatic lives, clean water bodies and the gradual environmental restoration are all traceable to the laudable job of Tantita Security Services Limited, and every attempt to sabotage it must be strongly condemned.

    “Issues of tribal bigotry and ethnic sentiments should not be brought into a performing enterprise of group or individuals; performances should be applauded instead of this show of shame,” the Traditional ruler stated.

  • NBM congratulates Oba of Benin over return of Artifacts from Netherlands

    NBM congratulates Oba of Benin over return of Artifacts from Netherlands

    Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa has congratulated the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II and the entire  Benin  Kingdom for the return of the kingdom’s artifacts  by the Government of Netherlands which were stolen from the Benin Kingdom during the British punitive expedition of 1897.

    In a statement by its national President Olorogun Ese Kakor, the body said it was a thing of joy that the stolen Artifacts from the kingdom were successfully returned home to its original owner- the ancient Benin Kingdom.

    According to the statement, there is no gain saying that the Artifacts are very important to the kingdom and their return signifies  more of good things to come to the kingdom. 

    Part of the statement reads: ” We, the Neo Black Movement of Africa hereby congratulate the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II and the entire Benin Kingdom for the return of Artifacts which were forcefully taken from the kingdom and its people years ago”.

    “This is a sign of more good things to come to the kingdom and it is hoped that more Artifacts in other countries would be returned in due course”.

    “The organisation also expressed gratitude to the government of Netherlands to have deemed it necessary and courageous enough to have returned the Artifacts as their action has made the Oba of Benin and his people proud.

    Read Also: Court begins hearing of NBM suit against Edo over property demolition

    Part of the statement reads:”

    “We thank specially the government of Netherlands for this gesture. It shows their love for the Oba of Benin and the entire kingdom”.

    NBM prayed for more synergy, unity and togetherness between the government of Netherlands and entire Benin Kingdom, even as it prayed God  for long reign of the Reverend Monarch.

  • Sandy Onor’s pursuit of political relevance revisited

    Sandy Onor’s pursuit of political relevance revisited

    • By Linus Obogo 

    In recent times, a handful of political enthusiasts and loyalists have taken to the social media space, attempting to revive the fading memories of the once-formidable “Caterpillar” brand—an identity that suffered a decisive political defeat in the 2023 governorship election at the hands of Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu’s popular mandate.

    A few days ago, a video began circulating online, capturing a visibly agitated individual expressing views that bordered more on incitement than informed discourse. Initially, it seemed like another familiar episode of fringe actors seeking attention, but it soon emerged that the individual was part of a coordinated group presenting itself as the “PDP Support Group”—a platform now used to echo criticisms of the current administration under the guise of advocacy.

    Their press engagement had the makings of a carefully choreographed attempt to reclaim public sympathy, yet it fell short of substance. That this group would choose Senator Sandy Onor—still clearly reeling from his electoral loss in 2023—as their rallying figure raises legitimate questions about their grasp of present realities and political optics.

    Rather than reflect, recalibrate, and contribute meaningfully to the democratic process, Senator Onor has, unfortunately, aligned himself with divisive rhetoric and unfounded allegations. His post-election trajectory has focused less on constructive engagement and more on discrediting the visible progress being made under Governor Otu’s leadership. It’s a troubling posture that appears driven more by political regret than by public interest.

    The statement released by the group—purporting to speak for the PDP—read more like a politically charged broadside than a well-reasoned critique. Their assertions on economic performance and governance reflect selective analysis and overlook the broader national challenges confronting all subnational governments. That they would seek to frame ongoing reforms as failure is more a reflection of their intent than of any grounded assessment.

    One must wonder: is this truly a call to service, or simply an attempt to stay relevant by targeting a government steadily gaining public confidence? It appears more like the latter. Using the Governor’s rising popularity as a platform to reintroduce familiar political voices does not constitute a rescue mission—it reflects a strategic bid for attention in an increasingly discerning political climate.

    Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration has, in less than two years, recorded significant strides across key sectors—from infrastructure and tourism to healthcare and investment. His calm, deliberate style of leadership has restored confidence in government and given Cross Riverians a renewed sense of belonging. That these achievements are downplayed by detractors is unfortunate but not unexpected.

    The people of Cross River are not yearning for nostalgia. They are forward-looking and increasingly aligned with a leadership that prioritizes service, stability, and tangible results. The attempt to portray a return to the past as progress is not only misleading—it underestimates the political maturity of the electorate.

    Ultimately, this latest critique from the PDP Support Group and its allies may amount to little more than political theatre. Cross River has already made its choice—and under Governor Otu’s stewardship, that choice continues to yield dividends. While others may resort to rhetoric, the state is focused on results—and in that commitment, it remains unshaken.

    Obogo is Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Media and Publicity

  • Nwokocha emerges UNIPORT Alumni Global President

    Nwokocha emerges UNIPORT Alumni Global President

    The 10th Senate Minority Whip, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, has been elected Global President of the University of Port Harcourt(UNIPORT) Alumni Association.

    Nwokocha was elected at the association’s Annual General Meeting(AGM) on Saturday at the 2025 National Tri-ennial Delegates Elective Convention of UNIPORT Alumni Association being held from June 20 to 22 in Umuahia, Abia State.

    In his acceptance speech, the new President expressed gratitude to members for their trust and support, calling for unity and cooperation among alumni to reposition the association and further contribute to the growth and development of their alma mater.

    “With a heart full of gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility, I stand before you, humbled by your confidence, inspired by our shared legacy, and committed to the next chapter of our collective journey.

    “Being elected president of this prestigious Alumni Association is not just an honour; it is a sacred trust, entrusted to me by a community of trailblazers, innovators, and leaders shaping industries, policies, and lives across the globe. I thank you profoundly for this mandate.

    “My years in public service, spanning both State and National Assemblies, have taught me the power of collaboration, vision, and legacy. These are the values I bring to this new role.

    “As a proud alumnus of the University of Port Harcourt, I believe it is time we elevate our association to match the calibre of its members and the promise of its future, anchored on what I call the 3Rs;Reconnect! Reinvest! and Reposition!”

    The new president added: “Together, we will Reconnect alumni across the globe,  deepen engagement across generations of the alumni and build  stronger bonds and mutual support. Reinvest by channeling our collective capacity to support the University’s academic excellence, infrastructure, and innovation.

    “Reposition —Establish UNIPORT Alumni as a formidable global network, a strategic partner in nation-building, and a beacon of influence in academia, business, public service, and beyond.

    “Let us be audacious in our vision and united in our execution. This is more than an association, it is a movement; one that will define the next era for UNIPORT and for us all. Thank you for your trust and together, let’s build greatness”, he urged. 

    The UNIPORT Alumni Association is the official global network of graduates from the University of Port Harcourt.

    With a growing membership base of over 300,000 alumni globally, the association represents a dynamic and diverse community of leaders, professionals, innovators, and globally renowned change agents making high-level impact in both public and private sectors.

    Through strategic programmes and collaborative initiatives, the alumni association supports the advancement of the university’s mission, enhances student experience, and contributes to national development.

    The election of  Senator Nwokocha as president is coming at  a critical juncture of the alumni association, as the body has in recent times  faced challenges related to fragmented leadership, diminished institutional cohesion and visibility, and a lack of strategic vision for alumni-driven development.

    For many, Senator Nwokocha’s emergence as president of the alumni association represents a timely and transformative opportunity.

    Nwokocha, representing Abia Central Senatorial District, was elected Senator on the platform of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections.

    He was later elected the Minority Whip/Principal Officer of the 10th Senate and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on NDDC, but left the Senate after six months of outstanding representation following the decision of the National Assembly Election Petitions Appeal Court.

    The new UNIPORT Alumni President had previously served for eight successive years in the House of Representatives, from 2015 to 2023 as the member representing Isiala Ngwa North/Isiala Ngwa South Federal Constituency, Abia State.

    He served as Chairman, House Committee on Insurance and Actuarial Matters and   was also the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character Commission (FCC).

    Before his election to the Nigerian House of Representatives, Nwokocha represented Isiala Ngwa South Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly for 8 years from 2007 to 2015.

    Nwokocha also served as  Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on Niger-Delta Power Holding Limited; Adhoc Committee on Pipelines Explosion/Fire Outbreak in Rivers State and Chairman, of the Adhoc Committee on Failure of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and presently the Acting National Secretary of Labour Party.

    With decades of tested leadership in public service, legislative innovation, and grassroots development, Senator Nwokocha brings the credibility, national and global visibility, and strategic acumen required to reposition the association as a formidable force for institutional advancement to transform the UNIPORT  Alumni community.

  • Edo community protests over planned installation of Okpella monarch

    Edo community protests over planned installation of Okpella monarch

    Members of the Ukhomuyio Community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, on Friday staged a protest against the planned installation of Michael Sado as the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

    The protesters claimed that the selection process violated the provisions of the Declaration of the Customary Law governing succession to the traditional title.

    According to them, Sado was chosen by a group not recognised under the customary law guiding the selection of the traditional ruler.

    Speaking on behalf of the protesters, the Obodeanokpella of Okpella, Chief Charles Adogah, said the Declaration clearly states that the power to nominate a new Okuokpellagbe lies with a designated component branch of the appropriate ruling house, under the supervision of the village head.

    Chief Adogah expressed concern over what he described as the endorsement of an alternative process allegedly approved by Governor Monday Okpebholo, which, he said, did not align with the recognised traditional procedures.

    The community called for adherence to the established customs and appealed to the authorities to respect the provisions of the Declaration to maintain peace and unity in the area.

    He said many of the community elders have been harrased, arrested and detained for speaking against the selection of Okuokpellagbe.

    He appealed to Governor Okpebholo to suspend what he termed unlawful coronation of Sado as well as cancellation of the flawed process that led to his appointment.

    Read Also: Suspected diphtheria cases surge in Edo

    He sai Komunio village of the Oteku ruling house be allowed, without interference, to carry out its traditional and lawful responsibility of selecting a candidate to the exalted throne of Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.

    According to him, “The selection process proceeds strictly in line with the Declaration of Customary Law regulating the selection.

    “All arrests and harassment of peaceful innocent community members should cease immediately and those arrested be released unconditionally without delay.

    “Your Excellency, your kinsman, Professor Ambrose Folorunsho Alli, is remembered with reverence and pride in Okpella. We pray that your name, too, will be etched not in controversy, but in honor. Let your legacy be one of justice, not of injustice dressed in political convenience.

    “To all Okpella sons and daughters, we say remain calm, but resolute. Remain peaceful, but firm. Our culture, our voice, and our heritage must not be silenced.”

    Edo Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lucky Eseigbe, said the protest against the installation was ‘too late.’

    Eseigbe stated that the Governor approved Sado’s selection being the nominee from the community.

    He urged the aggrieved Ukhomuyio Community members to seek legal action.

  • NDDC Board chairman debunks claims of irregularities in Calabar projects

    NDDC Board chairman debunks claims of irregularities in Calabar projects

    The Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Governing Board, Barrister Chiedu Ebie, has expressed deep concern over the spread of false narratives regarding the recently commissioned road projects in Calabar South and Calabar Municipality Local Government Areas of Cross River State. 

    Speaking during the NDDC@25 celebration and commissioning of projects held in Bayelsa State, Ebie cautioned against politicising developmental efforts, describing such actions as counterproductive to the progress of the Niger Delta region.

    Read Also: NDDC denies constructing C/River community road, warns against politicisation of projects

    Ebie firmly stated that all NDDC projects, including those in Calabar, strictly adhered to due process from procurement to execution. 

    He lauded the contractors and Commission staff for maintaining high standards of professionalism and compliance with regulatory procedures. According to him, the projects were executed by the NDDC.

    This clarification comes in response to claims made by the NDDC Board member representing Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, who had alleged that the Calabar projects neither followed due process nor were the executed by the NDDC. 

    Ebie dismissed these assertions as misleading and urged stakeholders to focus on facts and support the Commission’s efforts to deliver quality infrastructure and sustainable development across the Niger Delta.