The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Group begs Tinubu for reconciliation committee in Rivers

    Group begs Tinubu for reconciliation committee in Rivers

    A pro-democracy group, Coalition of Civil Society in Defence of Democracy, has urged President Bola Tinubu to establish a reconciliation committee within 14 days to resolve the crisis in Rivers State. 

    This call comes after President Tinubu declared a State of Emergency, suspending Governor Siminilayi Fubara, his Deputy and the Rivers House of Assembly for six months.

    The group’s convener, Dr. Olayemi Isaacs, at a briefing in Abuja expressed concerns that the state of emergency would only lead to a “forced peace” and encourage parties to hide their true intentions. 

    Instead, he advocated for reconciliatory steps in a democratic setting to achieve genuine peace. 

    According to Dr. Isaacs, genuine peace can only come to Rivers State through reconciliatory steps taken in a truly democratic setting.

    The Coalition of Civil Society in Defence of Democracy demanded that President Tinubu set up a panel of non-partisan eminent Nigerians to mediate between the rival parties in the Rivers State crisis. 

    It emphasised that the mediatory efforts must be concluded within 60 days, allowing the state of emergency to be lifted within 90 days of its declaration.

    The group warned that allowing the state of emergency to run longer than 90 days would compound the problem in the state, threatening and possibly jeopardising democracy. 

    It urged President Tinubu to take immediate action to establish the reconciliation committee and begin the process of resolving the crisis in Rivers State.

    “We call on President Bola Tinubu to end the state of emergency he imposed on Rivers State within 90 days of its proclamation,” Isaacs added. 

    Read Also: Project 2027: How Okpebholo is galvanising regional support for President Tinubu

    “Allowing it to run longer than this period will compound the problem in the state in a way that will threaten and possibly jeopardize Nigeria’s democracy. 

    “Furthermore, the Coalition of Civil Society in Defence of Democracy demands that President Tinubu, within 14 days, set up a panel of non-partisan eminent Nigerians to mediate between the rival parties in the Rivers State crisis. 

    “The mediatory efforts must be concluded within 60 days so that the state of emergency can be lifted within 90 days of its declaration.

    “Finally, we call on political parties to rein in their members in states that have similar political wranglings ongoing so that President Tinubu would not have the excuse to suspend democratic structures in more parts of the country. 

    “Where political parties fail to heed this counsel, they can be assured that there will not be many states left under democratic rule before the 2027 General Elections.”

  • Omo-Agege: A pillar of constitutional rectitude in Delta APC

    Omo-Agege: A pillar of constitutional rectitude in Delta APC

    • By Prince Efe Duku

    All political systems experience conflicts and contestations for their control. By the rational choice theory and as dissected in Gareth Morgan’s seminal work, ‘Interests, Conflict, and Power: Organizations as Political Systems’, these conflicts are sometimes mild or fierce depending on the interests driving them.

    Anyhow they come, truly democratic leaders resolve conflicts based on settled rules of law to protect the interests of the people as the ultimate source of political power. Promoting, protecting and enriching rules that preserve the interests of the grassroots is always populist. Herein lies the increasing grassroots appeal of the Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR in the politics of Delta State.

    Obarisi Omo-Agege as today’s issue in Delta’s political landscape stems partly from his first-class service as a legislator. He stands proudly tall as a most resourceful Deputy President of the Senate. Amongst others, midwifing a special legislative establishment framework for the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun; bringing to fruition his innovative vision of the Federal Polytechnic Orogun; and lobbying for the establishment of the University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, put his legacy as a parliamentarian in a unique class.

    On human capital development, the Obarisi as an intentional channel for the placement of a huge number of our highly qualified young people in strategic positions in the federal system is another level of patriotic and smart legislative representation. Hopefully, these young professionals will lead someday as champions in the military; petroleum industry; agricultural sector; public regulators and other critically important areas.

    Given his sterling record of public governance achievements, there is overwhelming belief that the future beckons on the Obarisi for more. The grassroots specially appreciate him as a visionary with an incisive understanding of the rules-based dynamics of party politics and a trusted chief protector of their stakes.

    Like many leaders in the Delta State All Progressives Congress (APC), the Obarisi believes that political interests are best protected by complying with constitutional rules, not arbitrary and extra-constitutional whims and caprices of a few. This thinking is overwhelmingly embraced by the party’s grassroots, thus confirming that the party’s fundamentals are healthy. This itself portends a seismic shift in the political landscape of the state, as shown by the Obarisi’s recent hugely successful engagements with large grassroots crowds of the party across Delta’s 25 local government areas.

    Read Also: 2027: DWI accuses Atiku, El-Rufai of misleading Nigerians

    Although recent strategic moves by committed grassroot leaders of the Delta APC are rightly revving up its capacity to build on its 2023 gains, reactionary forces serving external interests have been severely jolted, leading to feverish attempts to mainstream fringe disruptions into the functioning of the party. This must fail. While individuals may choose to embrace ‘aluta continua’ tendencies, the sanctity and due functioning of the constitutional architecture of the party must be held sacrosanct and unshakable. Those labouring to use extra- or unconstitutional tactics to control the party to satisfy external interest are already being frustrated by this reality, resulting in daily internal tantrums of hate and insults. These are immature answers to principled rejection of creepy lawlessness and cannot confer respectability. They do not substitute for constitutionality. Let everyone, big or small, simply respect the constitution. No need for any gang up, especially as experience has shown its futility. Going against leaders who preach respect for constitutionality is futile.

    Further, Omo-Agege believes that genuine interest in the growth of one’s party should reflect in constructive management of electoral outcome – biter or sweet. Knowing that victory sometimes comes from only marathons, perseverance and restraint are required to stay the course with the party in turbulent times instead of capriciously casting it into the wind where temporary aspirational inflections or setbacks occur. Staying the course strengthens democracy, as it helps to build a culture of resilience and broad respect for electoral outcomes. This is a key lesson from the steady rise of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s to the apex of power as the nation’s Commander-in-Chief despite diverse political setbacks and turbulence. It explains the Obarisi’s exemplary unflinching commitment to the organic development of the Delta APC. For discerning minds, this itself is the source of today’s growing confidence that the party indeed has a date with destiny in the governance of Delta.

    Pristinely brilliant, Omo-Agege’s commitment to sound principles resonates with many. He is fearlessly honest; fiercely protective of interests in his care; open to plurality and contestation of ideas; listens to diverse voices, especially critics; manages issues objectively with extraordinary wisdom; and makes sensible sacrifices and compromises for the collective good. For him, sustainable political leadership is earned by demonstrating consistent capacity to influence people, develop the party from the grassroots, and positively impact society. So, to him, to be trusted, political leaders should be connected to the grassroots. Artificial conclave leadership arrangements not grounded in the party’s grassroots or constitution are unsustainable.

    Obarisi Omo-Agege’s capacity to stand firm against those who mistake pragmatic concessions for weakness is well-known, yet Job’s patience guides him. So, he would typically counsel that, “No matter how complex the issues may be, fighting within our party without restraint is unwise.” Knowing human frailties, his goal is winning with dependable allies, including reformed opponents. But the minimum for him is adherence to constitutional rules. No matter how fanciful, ideas violating the party’s constitution are unhelpful. Backyards tactics never work well. This position is right and of a populist flair. There is no need to fight him for this. Fighting people who want respect for rules is never right.

    At the heart of Nyesome Wike’s popular ‘Enye Ndi Eba, Enye Ndi Eba’ musical joke lies an important message of mutual respect. Nothing guarantees mutual respect in a party better than full commitment to respecting its constitution. Any conspiracy to usurp the rights, privileges and powers of the grassroots must be stopped by principled leaders who value the grassroots. This sums up the populist stance of the Most Distinguished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR in the Delta APC, and it is overwhelmingly supported by the party’s grassroots leaders and members.

  • Emergency Rule will restore sanity in Rivers, say Youths in Parliament

    Emergency Rule will restore sanity in Rivers, say Youths in Parliament

    The Youth in Parliament has expressed support for declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a necessary step to restore order amid escalating political crisis in the State.

    The group believed the decision is crucial to prevent further chaos and ensure stability of governance in Rivers.

    A statement by chairman of the group, a son to former Oyo Governor and lawmaker representing Ogbomoso North, South and Orire federal constituency at the House of Representatives, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, stated the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers was in order considering  affairs in the State. 

    He said it was important for the President to do everything possible to restore sanity and protect the interests of the people.

    He said the political crisis in Rivers State has worsened in recent weeks with tensions rising between key political stakeholders, which has led to concerns about a breakdown in law and order.

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    Alao-Akala acknowledged that while emergency rule should not be viewed as a long-term solution, it is the best course of action to prevent anarchy and safeguard residents from political fallout.

    “The Youth in Parliament stands for democracy and good governance. However, when democracy is threatened by internal wranglings, it is the duty of the authorities to step in and restore stability. The people of Rivers deserve peace, and if emergency rule is what will guarantee that, then it is justified,” he added.

    The Youth in Parliament, a body of young political leaders advocating for increased youth involvement in governance however called on all political actors in Rivers State to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal or partisan interests.

  • Group berates National Assembly for backing State of Emergency in Rivers

    Group berates National Assembly for backing State of Emergency in Rivers

    The Coalition of Democrats in Africa (CoDA) has condemned the National Assembly’s approval of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as illegal.

    In a statement issued after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Thursday, CoDA President Ambassador Ibrahim Mustapha accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas of neglecting their constitutional duty to check the executive’s excesses.

    According to the group, the National Assembly has abandoned its role as a defender of democracy.

    “The suspension of the democratically elected governor, deputy governor, and state House of Assembly is a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy,” the coalition said.

    CoDA said that the move set a troubling precedent that could undermine governance in Nigeria.

    “By endorsing this, Akpabio, Abbas, and their colleagues have betrayed not only the Nigerian people but also the very essence of constitutional governance,” the statement reads.

    Read Also: Rivers State of Emergency: Legal expert backs Tinubu, slams critics  

    “This is not just about Rivers State. It is about the very soul of our democracy. If lawmakers can sit back and watch an elected governor, deputy governor, and an entire state assembly removed without due process, then no state is safe, and no democracy is secure.

    “The National Assembly may have failed us, but the people of Nigeria must not fail themselves. We must remain vigilant, speak out, and demand the restoration of constitutional order before it is too late,” the statement added. 

    The group also reminded lawmakers that their actions would be judged by history.

  • Ibas: Getting ready to connect the dots in Rivers

    Ibas: Getting ready to connect the dots in Rivers

    By OFONIME UMANAH

    There could not have been a better administrator with the panache and demeanour to connect the dots and restore peace in Rivers State under the present circumstance, than retired Vice Amiral Ibokette Ekwe Ibas.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of the calm and peaceful Ibas, a son of Nko, Cross River State, may just be the tonic for the rebirth of the oil-rich state, where peace has been on vacation in the recent past. Truly so. 

     Ibas, appointed sole administrator of Rivers State on Tuesday night by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the wake of the lingering crisis in the state, is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of effective administration and management of human and material resources. 

    His extensive experience in the Nigerian Navy, where he rose to the rank of Vice Admiral and served as Chief of Naval Staff, has equipped him with the skills and expertise necessary to excel in this new role.

    Born and raised in a family that values discipline, hard work and integrity, Ibas’ parental upbringing and training instilled in him the strong moral compass that has guided his personal and professional life over the years.  

    His parents’ emphasis on honesty, fairness and accountability has shaped his leadership style, which is characterized by transparency, inclusiveness, accountability and a commitment to doing what is right, just and fair.

    As a decorated naval officer, Ibas has always demonstrated exceptional leadership and managerial abilities, successfully overseeing complex operations and managing diverse teams. 

    His experience in strategic planning, policy development and implementation will undoubtedly guide him well in addressing the challenges facing Rivers State at the moment.

    Read Also: Rivers: Profile of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd)

    Ibas’s strong sense of discipline and integrity will be a major asset that will be deployed in the management of the human and financial resources of the state. His ability to maintain the highest standards of ethics and professionalism, even in the face of adversity during his active days in the military earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and subordinates. 

    From the day he retired from active service till now, Ibas has not changed. He is known to be consistently consistent in character. This same discipline and integrity will enable him to make tough but rewarding decisions, uphold accountability and ensure that the resources of Rivers State are utilized efficiently and effectively for the good of the people, most of who have wailed in the past months, as a result of the politic debacle that almost brought the state to its knees.

    In his new role, Ibas will expectedly bring a sense of discipline and accountability to the administration of the state. His strong background in logistics and resource management will enable him to optimize the use of state resources, ensuring that they are allocated efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of the citizens.

    Over the next six months, the people of Rivers State can expect Ibas to focus on key areas such as infrastructure development, economic growth and social welfare. He will, certainly, prioritize projects that address the state’s pressing needs, such as road construction, healthcare, and education. And from his antecedent, he will do so selflessly, after consultations. His leadership style, which emphasizes teamwork, will foster a sense of collaboration and inclusiveness among stakeholders, including political leaders, the traditional institution and the hoi-polloi. His commitment to excellence and results-driven approach will ensure that policies and programmes are designed to deliver tangible benefits to the people of Rivers State.

    As Ibas arrives Port Harcourt in a matter of hours, after the National Assembly’s ratification of the emergency rule regime in the state, and settles into his new role, the people of Rivers State can look forward to a period of renewed hope, optimism and progress. With his proven track record of discipline and high degree of integrity, Ibas is well-positioned to make a positive impact and leave a lasting legacy in the state. 

    In his new role, he is expected to usher in a season of fresh air devoid of bickering to the state. Over the next six months, he will likely prioritize ongoing projects undertaken by the suspended governor, Sim Fubara, including the mega ring road project.

    With Ibas, Rivers may just experience a bash.

    • Umanah, a seasoned journalist and media consultant, writes from his base in Port Harcourt.

  • NGO demands retraction of alleged defamation from ex-Gov Obaseki’s Commissioner Ogbeide 

    NGO demands retraction of alleged defamation from ex-Gov Obaseki’s Commissioner Ogbeide 

    The Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has given former Edo Commissioner Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor a 48-hour ultimatum to retract alleged defamatory statements against the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Barrister Bisi Idaomi or face legal action. 

    In a statement by its Director of Planning and Research, Mr. Patrick Yahaya, the NGO described Ogbeide’s claims as “vicious, reckless, and false,” accusing him of attempting to damage the Commissioner’s reputation. 

    Ogbeide, in a March 14, 2025, Facebook post, alleged that the Ministry of Women Affairs under the leadership of Barrister Idaomi spent N75 million on International Women’s Day celebrations. 

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    Ogbeide said: “Meanwhile, they are bleeding the treasury badly, I’m told that the Ministry of Women Affairs spent N75 million only to celebrate Women’s Day, and even APC women no see chewing gum.”

    The NGO refuted Ogbeide’s claim, stating that the Ministry never received N75 million for the event and accused him of deliberately misrepresenting the Commissioner’s work. 

    “This mischievous, malicious, false and misleading claim is a calculated attempt to tarnish the Commissioner’s image and diminish her standing in the eyes of the public,” the statement reads. 

    The group said: “we are not unmindful that this statement by Ogbeide is calculated to instigate public antagonism against the State Government, the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Commissioner, and her family,” demanding an immediate retraction of the statement and a public apology on all platforms where it was published.

  • Coalition denies false alarm against Tantita Security Services

    Coalition denies false alarm against Tantita Security Services

    The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Defense of Human Rights has expressed concern over the desperate attempts by certain individuals in the Niger Delta region to impersonate its coalition and raise false alarms against Tantita Security Services Limited and its management.

    In a statement, the coalition’s President, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole, said ‘these individuals’, who have long hidden under the guise of human rights advocacy, are perpetrators of illegal activities, including economic sabotage through oil bunkering.

    It said: “Their malicious intent is clear: to tarnish Tantita Security Services’s hard-earned reputation and mislead the local and international communities. For years, oil thieves and their enablers have caused significant economic losses for our nation, depriving communities of much-needed development and putting national security at risk.

    “However, thanks to the relentless and patriotic efforts of Tantita Security Services Limited, there has been a decisive clampdown on oil theft in the region. This has directly contributed to increased oil production capacity and boosted Nigeria’s economic fortunes.

    “It is therefore not surprising that these enemies of progress, now crippled by the success of Tantita’s operations, have resorted to desperate and malicious smear campaigns. We strongly condemn these underhanded tactics and reaffirm our unwavering support for Tantita Security Services in its ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s oil assets from criminal syndicates.

    “We urge the general public and the international community to disregard any false narratives peddled by these economic saboteurs, who are only interested in sustaining their illicit businesses at the expense of national development.

    “Furthermore, we wish to categorically state that our coalition remains committed to genuine human rights advocacy and will not allow our name to be hijacked for fraudulent propaganda. In the days ahead, we will be working closely with the media to counter all forms of misrepresentation and ensure that the truth is upheld.

    “We call on security agencies to investigate and expose these impersonators who are attempting to mislead the public for selfish and criminal interests. The fight against oil theft must not be derailed by deceptive campaigns orchestrated by those who have lost their illegal grip on the nation’s resources.”

  • Delta Youth group lauds Otuaro’s leadership on PAP anniversary

    Delta Youth group lauds Otuaro’s leadership on PAP anniversary

    The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has commended Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro for his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives as he marks his first anniversary as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

    In a statement, UYAN praised Otuaro’s dedication and the impact of his reforms over the past year. 

    “Your ability to navigate the challenges associated with your office is truly commendable. We appreciate your hard work, strategic insight, and unwavering support for those in need,” the statement read.

    Dr. Otuaro, a renowned Niger Delta activist and scholar, was appointed PAP Administrator in March 2024. 

    His tenure has been characterized by significant reforms aimed at strengthening the programme and promoting development in the Niger Delta. 

    Holding a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin, which he obtained in November 2023, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the region.

    Under his leadership, PAP has witnessed growth, innovation, and impactful change. 

    His grassroots approach and deep understanding of the Niger Delta’s challenges have been instrumental in driving sustainable peace, economic empowerment, and human capital development in the region.

    Similarly, UYAN has been active in supporting vulnerable individuals. 

    In December 2024, the association distributed palliatives worth millions of naira to less privileged persons in Warri, reinforcing its commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

    UYAN said it joined well-meaning Nigerians in recognising his achievements and looks forward to further progress under his leadership.

  • Lokpobiri lauds Tinubu’s policies for boosting oil production at Ofon FSO, Egina FPSO visit

    Lokpobiri lauds Tinubu’s policies for boosting oil production at Ofon FSO, Egina FPSO visit

    The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has praised the partnership between NNPC Limited and TotalEnergies E&P Nigeria Limited for their contributions to Nigeria’s oil production.

    During his visit to the Ofon Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) unit and the Egina Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) unit, Lokpobiri commended their production capacities,

    Ofon FSO produces about 40,000 barrels per day (bpd), while Egina FPSO produces around 97,000 bpd.

    The Egina oil field is located in the Gulf of Guinea, about 150 kilometers off Nigeria’s coast, in water depths of 1,400 to 1,700 meters, within Oil Mining Lease (OML) 130.

    Lokpobiri highlighted efforts to increase crude oil production, saying that the government has taken steps to ensure smooth operations for industry players. 

    He pointed to President Bola Tinubu’s Executive Orders and other government interventions as key measures supporting the sector.

    “With the government’s numerous interventions and the vast opportunities available, there is a clear path for increased production,” he said.

    He added that optimizing existing assets and leveraging government support would significantly boost Nigeria’s oil output and strengthen its position in the global energy market.

  • PINL’s contributions to oil theft war driving economic growth – N’Delta group

    PINL’s contributions to oil theft war driving economic growth – N’Delta group

    A group under the auspices of Niger Delta Volunteers (NDV) has attributed growth in Nigeria’s economy to the contributions of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) in the war against oil theft and pipelines vandalism.

    Convener of the NDV, Comrade Akpobome Francis, posited this at a press conference in Warri, Delta State, stating that the security company’s effort has become game-changer in the oil and gas industry.

    He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the increase in crude oil production.

    Akpobome said that the achievement marks the beginning of prosperity for the oil and gas sector in particular, and the country at large.

    Noting that the PINL had been operating in line with government regulations and international best practices, he stated that the firm had demonstrated prudent management of resources, maintaining stability in the oil and gas sector with minimal resources.

    “The company’s commitment to safety, security, and sustainability has created a benchmark for others to follow.

    “By prioritising the welfare of its workers and host communities, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigerian Limited has demonstrated that responsible business practices can coexist with profitability.

    Read Also: Olu of Warri urges protection of N’Delta mangrove, ecosystem

    “The company’s innovative approach to pipeline infrastructure development has been a game-changer for the industry.

    “By leveraging cutting-edge technology and best practices, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigerian Limited has significantly reduced the risk of pipeline vandalism and oil theft.

    “This, in turn, has increased the efficiency and reliability of Nigeria’s oil and gas supply chain. The company’s contributions to the sector have been instrumental in driving economic growth and development.

    “The company’s social investment programmes have had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of Nigerians, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment,” the statement added.

    The NDV further called on other companies and stakeholders to emulate PINL’s efforts ing ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for oil activities and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.