The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Delta community to Oborevwori: save us from hoodlums

    Delta community to Oborevwori: save us from hoodlums

    Indigenes of Ubulu Uku, in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, have appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to save them from the siege by hoodlums terrorising the town and preventing its residents from engaging in their farming

    In a statement, and President-General, Peter Ugbaja, and Secretary-General,   Dr. Chinedu Osaji,   Ubulu-Uku Kingdom Descendants Central Union, stated that although the attacks have been ongoing for some years, there had been a remarkable upsurge in their frequency and severity since last December. 

    The statement reads: “The main hot-spots where the yet-to-be-identified armed men have killed people in the town are the Ubulu-Uku/Issele-Uku Road, the Ubulu-Uku/Ubulu-Unor Road, the Ubulu-Uku/Onicha-Ugbo Road, and the Ubulu-Uku/Obior Road.’’

    “The recent fatal attacks led to the death of up to four people with some sustaining different degrees of injuries. The forests along the Ubulu-Uku/Issele-Uku Road are infested with armed Fulani terrorists who routinely attack and kidnap travellers on the road.”

    Read Also; Full list of winners, nominees of 2025 OSCARS

    The union urged the governor to deploy relevant security agencies to investigate the attacks, forestall further incidents, and restore free movement of residents to neighbouring communities.

    It acknowledged Oborevwori’s efforts in delivering on his M.O.R.E. Agenda to Deltans.

    Against the background of the increasing attacks on farming communities, the Aniocha South Local Government Area Chairman, Pastor Jude Chukwunwike, said the council would set up a Forest Corps to rid the forests of kidnappers and militant herdsmen.

    Chukwunwike said the corps would comprise retired security officers from the police, the military and the Department of State Security (DSS).

    The chairman, who spoke when he received a delegation of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association, expressed concern over the unchecked activities of cattle herdsmen whose ranks have been infiltrated by militants armed with assault weapons.

    He said: “Our desire is strictly to secure our forests and farms and shield our people from indiscriminate killings, rape and destruction of crops that has become the lot of our people in the past few years.”

  • PINL has no links with Ugborodo oil facility protest

    PINL has no links with Ugborodo oil facility protest

    The Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri to NNPC/JV Partners, Prince Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema has described allegation linking oil Surveillance company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited to the protest which disrupted Ogidigben oil field in Ugborodo, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta state as totally misleading and false.

    Edema reaction’s followed remarks by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo through his media aide , pointing fingers at PINL over the incident. The company has described the statement as untrue.

    In a signed statement Edema noted, “While we recognize the importance of clarifying operational responsibilities in the Niger Delta, we consider it necessary to correct a factual inaccuracy and provide context to the general public and stakeholders.

    “Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), with ties to interests within Warri Kingdom, does not hold a surveillance or security contract in Delta State. To suggest otherwise is not only incorrect but misleading, and it risks creating unnecessary confusion in an already sensitive operating environment.

    Read Also: Full list of 24 qualified countries for AFCON 2025

    “PINL’s engagements are clearly defined and are not associated with the surveillance responsibilities in the area under discussion. The public narrative attempting to assign blame or imply jurisdiction in the matter of the Ugborodo protest is therefore fundamentally flawed.

    “The protest in question was a peaceful civic action rooted in concerns over ward delineation and political representation, which are outside the purview of both security contractors and operators. Any attempts to redirect attention away from the legitimate expressions of the people by ascribing operational failures are both unfair and unhelpful.

    “His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III,  The Olu of Warri, remains unwavering in his advocacy for peace, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s critical infrastructure. Warri Kingdom continues to support the efforts of the Federal Government and its partners in fostering stability and development in the Niger Delta.

    “We urge all parties to approach these matters with sincerity, clarity, and mutual respect. Facts must remain sacred, especially in matters that affect national assets, community relations, and regional peace”.

  • Nigeria’s digital census: An imperative for development planning, sustainability, democratic integrity

    Nigeria’s digital census: An imperative for development planning, sustainability, democratic integrity

    By Abdullah Adeyanju Binuyo

    Nigeria, the pulsating heart of Africa, stands at a critical juncture in its development trajectory. With a rich tapestry of cultures and a burgeoning population, the nation’s future hinges on the accuracy and integrity of its demographic data. 

    The history of census exercises in Nigeria is a complex narrative, marked by political tensions, logistical hurdles, and widespread distrust. From the colonial era counts, which were often viewed with suspicion and used to serve imperial interests, to post-independence attempts marred by ethnic and regional rivalries, .

    Nigeria’s quest for a credible, reliable and widely acceptable census is as old as Nigeria herself. However, the advent of digital technologies presents a transformative opportunity to break free from these historical constraints and usher in a new era of accurate, transparent, and efficient data collection. For President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and his “renewed hope” agenda, embracing a digital census is not just an administrative necessity but a strategic imperative for charting a sustainable path to development, enhancing democratic processes, and solidifying a legacy of progress.

    The historical context of census-taking in Nigeria is crucial to understanding the current imperative for digital transformation. Past censuses have been heavily politicized, with figures often manipulated to gain political advantage and a larger share of national resources. The 1962 and 1963 counts, for example, were highly contentious and led to disputes that deepened existing ethnic fault lines. Subsequent attempts, such as the 1973 and 1991 exercises, faced their own set of challenges, including logistical nightmares, funding shortages, and lingering distrust. The 2006 census, while considered more credible, still faced criticisms regarding accuracy and coverage. These historical challenges underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift, one that leverages technology to ensure transparency, accuracy, and reliability.

    In the current political landscape, a credible digital census is not merely desirable but essential. First, it can help depoliticize the process. By utilizing digital tools, data collection and analysis can be made more transparent, less susceptible to manipulation, and provide real-time data, reducing human error and enhancing the overall integrity of the census. This transparency is vital for building trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and regional groups, who have historically been wary of census results. Second, a digital census can provide the Tinubu government with the accurate and timely data needed for effective policy formulation and implementation. Whether it is healthcare, education, infrastructure, or social welfare programs, reliable demographic data is the cornerstone for targeted interventions. For instance, knowing the precise population distribution can help in planning the construction of schools, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure where they are most needed. It can also inform decisions about resource allocation, ensuring that funds are directed to areas with the greatest needs, thereby promoting equitable development.

    Furthermore, a digital census can significantly impact economic growth. Accurate data on the labor force, age distribution, urbanization patterns, and other key indicators can help attract foreign investment and guide private sector development. For attracting Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) Investors need to know the market size, the skills available, and the demographic trends to make informed decisions. A digital census can provide this critical information, making Nigeria a more attractive destination for investment. Additionally, it can help in identifying areas with high unemployment and inform the design of targeted job creation programs. For Tinubu’s government, which has prioritized economic revitalization, a digital census is a critical tool for achieving its goals. By providing a clear and comprehensive picture of the nation’s economic landscape, it can help in crafting policies that promote inclusive growth, reduce poverty, and enhance overall economic stability.

    The success stories of digital census initiatives around the world offer invaluable lessons for Nigeria. In Asia, Pakistan, the National Database registration Authority (NADRA) successfully delivered their first fully digital census with biometric identification system replacing the traditional paper-based systems with real -time data synchronization and secure cloud-based storage. This has been instrumental in streamlining service delivery, reducing corruption, and improving governance. This massive digital identification program has not only facilitated the delivery of social benefits but also provided a robust framework for data collection and analysis. In Latin America, Brazil’s experience with electronic voting and data management linking its digital census result clearly demonstrates how technology can be used to enhance transparency and efficiency in large-scale governance processes. The country’s sophisticated electronic voting system has significantly reduced electoral fraud and improved the speed and accuracy of election results. In Africa, countries like Kenya and Rwanda have made significant strides in leveraging technology for data collection and analysis. Kenya’s Huduma Namba initiative, a digital identity system, aims to improve service delivery and enhance governance. Rwanda’s use of technology in its census and other data collection efforts has led to more accurate and timely data, which has informed effective policy decisions. These examples show that with the right strategy, investment, and political will, Nigeria can overcome its historical challenges and conduct a successful digital census. The Tinubu-led administration must therefore be decisive of this target clearly demonstrating the nexus that links Development Planning, Sustainability,  Democratic Integrity and Economic growth

    A critical aspect of Nigeria’s digital census success will be the collaboration between the National Population Commission (NPC) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The NIMC’s existing National Identity Number (NIN) database can serve as a foundational element for the digital census. By integrating the NIN system with the census data collection process, Nigeria can enhance accuracy, reduce duplication, and ensure comprehensive coverage. This collaboration can also help in streamlining the registration process and reducing costs. Leveraging the NIN system for census purposes will not only improve the quality of the data but also further populate and also strengthen the national identity system itself. This synergy between the NPC and NIMC is essential for the success of the digital census and the broader national development agenda.

    Moreover, the successful implementation of a digital census has significant implications for Nigeria’s democratic processes, particularly the upcoming elections. Accurate and reliable demographic data is crucial for ensuring fair and credible elections. It helps in voter registration, constituency delimitation, and resource allocation to electoral bodies. By leveraging digital technology, Nigeria can enhance the integrity of its electoral process, reduce the risk of manipulation, and build public trust in the democratic system. A successful digital census will not only provide a reliable population count but also lay the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable electoral process.

    Read Also: Govt, Zinox seal N85b digital census deal

    However, the transition to a digital census is not without its challenges. Infrastructure limitations, particularly in rural areas with poor internet connectivity, pose a significant hurdle. Digital literacy levels also vary widely across the country, and training census enumerators and the public on using digital tools is essential. Moreover, data security and privacy concerns must be addressed to build public trust. Ensuring that personal data is protected and used responsibly is crucial for the success of the digital census. The government must invest in robust data protection measures, engage in public awareness campaigns to allay fears about data breaches and misuse, and ensure that all data collection and storage practices comply with international standards.

    For President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the successful implementation of this digital census is more than a milestone; it is a transformative opportunity that holds the key to the nation’s future. This initiative transcends numbers and statistics—it’s about harnessing technology to overcome historical hurdles, eliminate political biases, and produce reliable data crucial for shaping effective policies. it will be a testament to this administration’s commitment to genuine progress, transparency and accountable governance . It will be referenced as a key success story, demonstrating the government’s ability to leverage technology for national development and democratic consolidation. This achievement will not only enhance the government’s credibility but also provide a solid foundation for future planning and policy making. 

    In conclusion, the nation eagerly awaits President Tinubu’s delivery of Nigeria’s first digital census—a groundbreaking step that promises to empower every citizen and forge a brighter tomorrow. This is a pivotal moment for democracy and development. Let us seize this opportunity to build the Nigeria we envision—one that is prepared to embrace the future with “renewed hope”, confidence, and purpose

    -Adeyanju Binuyo  (adeyanju@teranpico.com) –  A techpreneur , strategist and a sustainable development expert writes in from Abuja

  • Fufeyin hails ‘pillar of Niger Delta peace, development’ Tompolo at 54

    Fufeyin hails ‘pillar of Niger Delta peace, development’ Tompolo at 54

    General Overseer of the CHRIST MERCYLAND DELIVERANCE MINISTRY, Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, has congratulated Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, who is also the chairman of TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited, on his 54th birthday.

    In a statement, Fufeyin described Tompolo as a brother, friend who is also  a humble, selfless and exceptional leader whose entire life has been dedicated to the defence, emancipation and the development of the Ijaw land and indeed the Niger Delta region.

    Read Also: Ikpokpo counts gains of Niger Delta Sports Festival 

    He also described him as friend and brother  Izon-Ebi Dou Keme of Ijaw nation as a philanthropist, pillar of support for community development and a beacon of hope to many youths.

    He said Tompolo has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the peace, progress, unity and stability of the Niger Delta.

  • We don’t want you in APC, Nwoko tells Oborevwori

    We don’t want you in APC, Nwoko tells Oborevwori

    Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) has told Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to perish the thought of joining the All Progressives Congress(APC). 

    He said the Governor is not welcomed in the party. 

    He spoke at the weekend when members of the Delta Unity Group (DUG) in Ika Federal Constituency defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in Agbor.

    According to him::“Oborovwori wants to come to APC, but tell him to stay where he is. He will be defeated. We don’t want him in APC. The President personally told me that he will deliver Delta to APC, maybe that is why the governor is desperate.”

    Nwoko expressed confidence in APC’s prospects in Delta State, assuring the crowd that the next Governor will emerge from APC, emphasising the party’s growing appeal due to PDP’s alleged 25 years of corrupt governance.

    Read Also: NDSF: Oborevwori pledges to transform Delta sports

    “Delta will surely become an APC state come 2027. 25 years of corrupt governance by the PDP in the state is enough. We must take over. The time has come for that to happen,” he added.

    He emphasised that APC is poised to deliver better governance and the party’s growing strength and momentum will ensure its victory in 2027.

    “Don’t let anyone doubt who you are. The next governor will be formed by you. As you go home, tell them that the next Governor of Delta State will be formed by the APC. 

    “Today, we are emboldened and happy that a large political group like the DUG is following my footsteps in joining the APC,” Nwoko said.

    Nwoko’s stance on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s rumoured defection plan to the All Progressives Congress (APC) aligns with former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege. 

    According to Omo-Agege, the APC is open to welcoming new members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but Oborevwori and his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, are not welcome.

    Omo-Agege expressed confidence that the APC’s growing strength, bolstered by the defection of over 60% of PDP members since 2023, positions the party to deliver Delta State for President Ahmed Tinubu and sweep the 2027 elections, retaining all Senate seats and winning the House of Representatives and House of Assembly seats.

    Analysts feared Oborevwori’s defection may destabilise APC and spark a backlash from Delta State voters who see Oborevwori and Okowa as key figures in the state’s desire for change and their involvement with the APC could undermine the party’s prospects in the state.

  • Emergency Rule: NBA leadership not fighting enough for our democracy — Centre claims

    Emergency Rule: NBA leadership not fighting enough for our democracy — Centre claims

    The Centre for Constitutional Watch (CCW) has criticised the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for what it called a “muted, convenient reaction” to the emergency rule in Rivers State.

    In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Hassan Bello, and issued on Saturday, the group faulted the NBA’s decision to relocate its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu, saying the move fell short of the bold stance expected from the legal body.

    “The relocation is not a strong enough statement against the illegal and shameful occupation of power in Rivers,” the CCW said.

    The group added that Nigerians had hoped the NBA would spearhead a national resistance to what it described as “the creeping military democracy that is slowly strangling our Constitution.”

    “You cannot applaud a doctor who simply walks away from a dying patient. By merely relocating their conference, the NBA is walking away from the heart of the crisis. Nigerians expected more. They expected resistance. They expected outrage,” Kura stated.

    Read Also: Women march in Rivers, demand reversal of emergency rule

    “Rivers State is under siege. The courts are silent. The constitution is being desecrated in broad daylight. Yet, the supposed custodians of the law are making travel plans instead of leading the charge for justice.”

    The CCW demanded more tangible action from the NBA, including the declaration of a one-month boycott of all courts in Nigeria to signal zero tolerance for the “unconstitutional sole administrator model”.

    “This is not the time for cautious statements. The NBA should be declaring a national legal crisis. Their silence in the face of tyranny amounts to complicity,” the statement added.

    “You do not fight dictatorship by changing venue. You fight dictatorship by taking the fight to the courtrooms, the streets, and the national conscience.

    “If lawyers retreat from a constitutional battle, who then will stand for Nigeria’s democracy?

    “The sole administrator is an aberration. The NBA must pursue this matter to the Supreme Court and lead public interest litigation that nullifies this political atrocity.”

    The CCW called on well-meaning civil society organisations, student groups, and professional bodies to demand more from the NBA, insisting that the rule of law cannot survive if those entrusted with its defence choose convenience over courage.

  • Akwa Ibom strengthens ties with UN for economic diversification

    Akwa Ibom strengthens ties with UN for economic diversification

    With the current challenges rocking oil production globally, the United Nations and Akwa Ibom State Government are collaborating on programmes to help diversify the State’s economy through tourism and deployment of technology in various sectors.

    This formed the focus of discussions at the meeting between Governor oUmo Eno and United Nations Assistant Secretary- General (UNDP),  Ahunna Eziakonwa on the flanks of the ongoing Exco retreat in Lagos. 

    The UN Envoy commended the state of developments in the State, noting, “Akwa Ibom State remains the favourite for many. 

    “You are leading well, especially in putting the resources of the State in investments that generate income. 

    “I came to Lagos on Ibom Air. They are doing well and their services are good.”

    She spoke of the global price fluctuations in the petroleum industry, maintaining that the situation warrants a new mindset on how to diversify the economy and look beyond oil. 

    She said her organisation is committed to assisting the state through accelerated development models, especially for those at the bottom. 

    This, she said, was in the area of technology, digitization and technology adoption to conquer the low standards of education, food security and more.

    “There is a technology that deploys drones for irrigation and other technologies to support farmers, the private sector cannot do it by itself hence the need for government to invest in technology infrastructure”, she said. 

    Eno congratulated her for being the first Nigerian to attain the position of the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General ( UNDP) and thanked her for the emerging partnership and collaboration between her organization and Akwa Ibom State. 

    The Governor said that the meeting was an indication that the earlier visit to the State by Ms. Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative, UNDP Nigeria, was yielding positive results. 

    He was excited that the UNDP is now focusing on sub-nationals in its quest for economic development. 

    He informed her that his economic blueprint, as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda, aims to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), globally- driven and supported by the UN. 

    “For Akwa Ibom State, the SDGs can only be attained in a sustainable and durable manner through the diversification of the local economy.

    “We welcome the food security technology to enable us feed our people well,” Eno added. 

    He said Akwa Ibom is well positioned by virtue of its rich natural resources, peaceful nature, and a viable airline to take advantage of UNDP’s collaboration.

    He said the State is organising tourism, power and corporate submits later in the year to fine-tune ways of harnessing the potentials that abound.

    “We are prepared for a future without oil, that’s why we are investing in real estate business. 

    “We are building a high-rise tower and other estates as well as turning our moribund assets to commercial value.”

    He welcomed UNDP’s decision to support the State in tourism, economic transformation and other technical assistance which would ultimately lead to the socio-economic upliftment of the people.

  • INEC ward delineation: Protests escalate as Itsekiri shut down oil facility in Delta

    INEC ward delineation: Protests escalate as Itsekiri shut down oil facility in Delta

    Tensions flared in Delta State’s Warri region as widespread protests against the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposed ward re-delineation intensified, leading to the shutdown of a major oil facility by Itsekiri protesters in Ugborodo, Warri South-West Local Government Area.

    The 28,000-barrel-per-day (bpd) oil installation—formerly operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company and now managed by Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings—was peacefully shut down on Tuesday by members of the Ugborodo community.

    Men, women, and youths from the community stormed the facility with placards, accusing INEC of pushing an “ethnic cleansing” agenda through the re-delineation proposal.

    The demonstrators demanded that the electoral body halt the process, which they claim threatens the political representation and identity of the Itsekiri people.

    The protest adds to growing unrest across several communities in the region, as residents continue to express deep concerns over perceived marginalization and demographic manipulation.

    “This is an attempt to annihilate the Itsekiri people in their homeland,” a protester declared, accusing INEC and its collaborators of seeking to short-change the ethnic group.

    The demonstrators also raised concerns about the involvement of ex-militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, alleging that the federal government’s pipeline surveillance contract awarded to him through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) might be used to suppress their communities.

    There are growing fears that the protest may spread to other oil and gas facilities in Itsekiri territory, a move that could have dire consequences for Nigeria’s already fragile daily crude output.

    The protest in Ugborodo adds to a broader discontent simmering across Warri South, Warri South-West, and Warri North Local Government Areas, with various ethnic groups alleging that the INEC proposal unfairly undermines their demographic and political realities.

    Read Also: Otti, Obi, Usman meet INEC over Labour Party leadership crisis

    In Warri South, leaders of the Okere-Urhobo Kingdom have also raised strong objections to the proposed delineation, claiming it grossly underrepresents their population and political weight.

    “We have the population, we have the voters’ strength,” said Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru, a former member of the Delta State House of Assembly and Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment.

    “Okere-Urhobo Kingdom is the most populated area in Warri South. Our boundaries go beyond imagination. We deserve at least four wards”, Opuoru said.

    He emphasized that their protest was not against other ethnic groups—Itsekiri, Ijaw, or Agbarha-Warri—but rather a call for equity and proper recognition based on population data.

    Echoing the sentiment, Chief Jude Onovughe Igerebou, a former leader of the Warri South Legislative Arm, said, “We reject the ward delineation done by INEC in Warri South. Our communities were not properly captured, and there were too many abnormalities.”

    Also speaking, Chief Venture Daniels Evwherhamre, a member of the Delta State Public Procurement Board, criticized INEC for allocating only one ward to the Okere-Urhobo people despite their proposal for six.

    “It is not acceptable. We are asking the authorities to go back and look into our proposal. We deserve better,” he said.

    Ambassador Duke Ufuoma Barho added, “We have the boundaries, the numbers, and the documentation. INEC came and brought out what we didn’t propose. We are appealing to INEC to revisit our submission.”

    As both Itsekiri and Okere-Urhobo communities intensify their calls for a reversal of the ward delineation plan, the protests pose a growing challenge to INEC and federal authorities, who now face increasing pressure to intervene and ensure that the delineation process is seen as transparent, equitable, and devoid of ethnic bias.

  • Rivers crisis: Pro-democracy group demands reversal of LGA appointments

    Rivers crisis: Pro-democracy group demands reversal of LGA appointments

    Citizens for Democratic Watch (CDW), a pro-democracy group, has condemned the appointment of administrators for the 23 local government areas in Rivers State by the sole administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, describing it as “a dangerous abuse of power and a direct attack on the constitution”.

    The action, which came just 24 hours after a federal high court restrained Ibas from making such appointments, has triggered widespread concern over what CDW calls “the rapid erosion of democratic institutions under the guise of emergency governance”.

    In a statement on Wednesday, Dr Hassan Dantani, Executive Director of CDW, called on President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.

    “Appointing 23 sole administrators in clear defiance of a federal court order is not only unlawful — it is tyrannical,” Dantani said. 

    “No state of emergency gives anyone the license to override the judiciary, erase local governance, and act above the law. This must be condemned in the strongest terms.”

    Dantani noted that the local government system is a constitutionally recognised tier of government, and any attempt to run it without democratic structures sets a very dangerous precedent.

    “This action by Ibok-Ete Ibas is a grave violation of Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the system of democratically elected local government councils,” he said. 

    “Our democracy cannot function if unelected individuals are imposed to run local governments under military-style appointments.”

    CDW warned that if allowed to stand, the appointments could embolden future political actors to trample on the rule of law and weaken the judiciary.

    “The blatant disregard for a valid court order should alarm every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation,” Dantani said. 

    Read Also: Rivers crisis: Uncertainty as Wike, Fubara reconciliation stalls

    “When leaders ignore court rulings and impose their will, what remains of the rule of law? If we allow this to stand in Rivers, it could happen anywhere else.”

    The group called on the National Assembly to urgently summon the Rivers sole administrator to explain his actions and ensure that all constitutional boundaries are respected.

    “We urge the Senate and House of Representatives to treat this matter as a priority,” he added. 

    “Democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of expediency or political convenience.”

    Dantani concluded by demanding the immediate reversal of the LGA appointments and a return to constitutional order.

    “The people of Rivers State deserve legitimate, elected representation — not handpicked appointees. We must not normalise authoritarian shortcuts in a democratic society,” the group warned.

  • Ward delineation: Invaders burn house, injure others in Warri community

    Ward delineation: Invaders burn house, injure others in Warri community

    Unidentified youths on Sunday night razed a building and injured few persons during an attack at Iyara community in the heart of Warri South Local Government area of Delta State.

    It was learnt the invaders, armed with sophisticated weapons like guns, cutlasses and axes, stormed the area around 10:47pm, shooting sporadically into the air to scare away residents. 

    They were said to have inflicted severe injuries on few persons in the area.

    Residents of the area, especially women and children were reported to have ran helter skelter for their lives as the assailants branded their weapons freely to scare them away.

    Residents reports the scene of the attack were bullet riddled walls and commercial tricycles.

    While the reason for the attack was not clear, many speculated it may not be unconnected to the recent wards delineation exercise recently announced by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) particularly in the Warri South area.

    According to a reliable source, the assailants two days earlier carried out attack in some areas within the Local Government to register their perceived grievances with the wards delineation announced by INEC aftermath the Supreme Court judgement on the case.

    When contacted, the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Comrade Isaac Agbateyinro said those who carried out the attacks were yet unknown. 

    He however said when he got wind of the matter, he immediately mobilised adequate security forces to the area.

    “As I speak with you adequate security agencies have been deployed to the area and they are maintaining law and order and I can tell you that peace had since returned to the area,” he stated. 

    A former youth leader and stakeholder in the Iyara Community, Chief Onoriode Okoh, expressed shock over the attack wondering what would lead to the setting a building ablaze and riddling tricycles with bullets.

    He urged the people should not attach tribal sentiments to the attack just as he called for peaceful coexistence of all the ethnic groups in the area.

    Okoh also cautioned the youths in the area not take laws into hands by destroying any property nor  injure anybody while investigation  is ongoing  to fish out perpetrators of the dastardly act.

     According to him: “We don’t want any body to attach tribal sentiments  to the attack. The Urhobos,  Itsekiris and Ijaws  are intermarried and have been living together peacefully over the years.So, we don’t want ethnic coloration to this attack”.

    He added: “Should there be any issue, as some  have alleged in some quarters  that it is connected to Wards delineation in Warri South Council such persons can channel their grievances to Independent National Electoral Commission (INWC) rather than cause disaffection among the people who have lived together peacefully for decades and intermarriage”.

    While thanking the security agencies for their timely intervention in quelling the skirmishes and bringing normalcy to the area, he expressed the optimism that the matter would be investigated and the culprits brought to book.

    Responding to the issue of wards delineation in Warri South, a legal practitioner, Ariyo faulted the way and manner the exercise was carried out by all the stakeholders involved in the process.

    According to him: “I have watched with keen interest and rapt attention, the events leading to the INEC proposal for Warri Federal Constituency of the 4th day of April, 2025 and would have not commented on same save for the fact that as admirers of Karl Marx we subscribe to the view that; “To leave an error unrefuted is to encourage intellectual immorality”. 

    Read Also: ‘Niger Delta witnessing progress under President Tinubu’

    “Consequently, notwithstanding the fact that the said proposal is inherently and manifestly invalid by reason of gross violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, INEC guidelines and deliberate contempt of court; the combination of which should ordinarily not require our comments, we now elect not to leave this poorly executed and corrupt exercise without a proper treatment.

     “That INEC was aware at the material time, that there was and remains not just a pending appeal on the subject matter of the said event it proposed and conducted on the 4th of April, 2025, but that there is in fact, a Motion on Notice duly filed before the Court to the knowledge of INEC, seeking a stay of actions regarding the said event in particular and associated activities in general”.

    “May we refer INEC to the court processes already served on it as at the 2nd day of April, 2025 in this regard.”