The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations: A threat to 10th Senate’s integrity

    Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations: A threat to 10th Senate’s integrity

    By Ahmed Tijani Ibn Mustapha

    In recent weeks , Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has embarked on a calculated campaign to tarnish the reputation of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and undermine the credibility of the 10th Senate. Her tactics, which include baseless accusations, character assassination, and the manipulation of facts, have not only raised eyebrows but also cast a shadow over the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative arm. This article seeks to expose the unsavoury methods employed by Senator Natasha in her quest to drag the Senate President and the institution of the Senate into disrepute.

    One of the most egregious tactics employed by Senator Natasha is her repeated accusation of sexual harassment against the Senate President. These allegations, which she has echoed in the media and public forums, are not only damaging but also lack any substantive evidence. Despite the gravity of such claims, Senator Natasha has failed to provide even the tiniest shred of proof to substantiate her accusations. This raises serious questions about her motives and the credibility of her claims.

    In a society where allegations of sexual harassment are taken seriously and can have far-reaching consequences, it is irresponsible and unethical to make such claims without evidence. By doing so, Senator Natasha not only undermines the fight against genuine cases of harassment but also weaponizes serious societal issues for personal and political gain. Her actions are a disservice to the very cause she claims to champion.

    Another example of Senator Natasha’s manipulative tactics is her distortion of the circumstances surrounding her suspension from the Senate. Contrary to her claims, her suspension was a direct result of her disorderly conduct on the floor of the Senate, a fact that has been well-documented. However, Senator Natasha has chosen to twist this narrative, falsely asserting that she was suspended for making allegations against the Senate President.

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    This deliberate misrepresentation of facts is a classic example of how Senator Natasha seeks to portray herself as a victim while deflecting attention from her own misconduct. By framing her suspension as an act of political victimization, she attempts to garner public sympathy and divert scrutiny from her actions. This tactic is not only dishonest but also undermines the integrity of the Senate’s disciplinary processes.

    Senator Natasha’s recent actions are not an isolated incident but rather part of a pattern of behavior. In 2014, she accused Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide, of making inappropriate advances during a visit to the Presidential Villa. However, Omokri vehemently denied these allegations and provided irrefutable evidence to prove that he was not even in the country on the date in question. This incident serves as a stark reminder of Senator Natasha’s propensity for making unsubstantiated claims to further her agenda.

    One can only speculate on the motivations driving Senator Natasha’s campaign of blackmail and character assassination. However, it is not unreasonable to assume that her objective is to elevate her own political standing by tearing others down. In a political landscape where public perception often shapes success, Senator Natasha appears to have chosen the path of destruction rather than constructive engagement.

    Her actions, however, come at a great cost. By targeting the Senate President and the institution of the Senate, she not only undermines the credibility of Nigeria’s legislative arm but also erodes public trust in the democratic process. Her tactics are a disservice to the Nigerian people, who deserve leaders committed to integrity, transparency, and accountability.

    Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s campaign of blackmail and character assassination is a dangerous and destructive force in Nigerian politics. Her baseless allegations, manipulation of facts, and history of unsubstantiated accusations reveal a pattern of behavior that is both unethical and damaging. As citizens, we must demand better from our leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. The integrity of our democracy depends on it.

    It is time for Senator Natasha to either provide concrete evidence to support her claims or cease her campaign of defamation. The Nigerian people deserve leaders who are committed to truth, justice, and the common good, not those who seek to rise by pulling others down. The 10th Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, must remain focused on its mandate to serve the nation, undeterred by the distractions of those who seek to undermine its work.

    Ahmed Tijani Ibn Mustapha, Public Affairs analyst | Social commentator

  • Group warns Fubara against contempt, hails Rivers lawmakers as ‘heroes of democracy’ after Supreme Court victory 

    Group warns Fubara against contempt, hails Rivers lawmakers as ‘heroes of democracy’ after Supreme Court victory 

    The African Patriots Forum (APF) has praised lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaehwule, for what it described as their commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

    The group commended the legislators for seeking legal redress instead of resorting to violence in their dispute with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed their legitimacy.

    In a statement signed by its Global President, Dr Lanre Solomon, the APF described the verdict as “a significant milestone in their struggle to assert their authority and promote good governance in Rivers State”.

    “The lawmakers, led by Amaehwule, have demonstrated unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, justice, truth, and the people’s interests,” the statement reads.

    Read Also: Rivers logjam: No truce yet between Fubara, lawmakers

    “Their bravery in standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, shows their strong convictions and dedication to the well-being of their constituents.

    “By consistently choosing to side with democracy and justice, they have inspired hope and confidence in the people, showing that their voices are heard and valued.”

    The forum also accused Governor Fubara of disregarding the rule of law and urged him to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling.

    “The Governor must quit playing games and respect the court orders. The Supreme Court’s verdicts are clear and unequivocal, and it is imperative that he desists from any further actions that may be deemed contemptuous,” the group stated.

    “The people of Rivers State have suffered enough from the Governor’s antics, and it is time for him to put the interests of the state and its people above his own personal agenda.”

    The APF further warned that continued defiance of the ruling could lead to “chaos and anarchy” in the state.

    It also called on stakeholders in Rivers State to support the lawmakers in what it described as a crucial fight for democracy.

    “The lawmakers’ actions are a powerful reminder that democracy is not just about winning elections, but also about upholding the principles of justice, equality, and fairness,” the statement concluded.

  • Mayaki berates PDP chairman over Edo security

    Mayaki berates PDP chairman over Edo security

    Former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki, Mr. John Mayaki, has slammed the Edo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, for what he described as his hypocrisy in criticising Governor Monday Okpebholo’s security efforts.

    Mayaki said:“How can a man who was kidnapped in broad daylight under Obaseki’s government now pontificate on insecurity? If the PDP government couldn’t even protect its own party chairman, what moral right does Aziegbemi have to lecture anyone on security?”

    He described Aziegbemi’s comments as a desperate attempt to deflect from the PDP’s catastrophic failure in governance, reminding Edo people that insecurity thrived under Obaseki, while his administration remained indifferent to the suffering of citizens.

    Mayaki noted that for eight years, the PDP government neglected security, allowing Edo State to become a haven for kidnappers, cultists, and criminals. 

    His words: “Under Obaseki administration, farmers raised alarms over herdsmen attacks, communities pleaded for protection, but Obaseki and his team looked the other way. Rather than addressing these crises, the PDP government focused on political infighting and issuing empty statements.

    “Now, barely months into a new administration, the same PDP that left Edo’s security infrastructure in ruins wants to rewrite history and blame the APC. Governance is not about press conferences and political grandstanding – it requires actual work, something the PDP never did in eight years.”

    Mayaki stressed Okpebholo inherited a broken security system, which the new administration is actively working to fix in collaboration with security agencies. 

    He lamented instead of supporting efforts to restore order, the PDP was desperately seeking relevance through baseless accusations.

    “Before offering unsolicited advice, Aziegbemi and the PDP should first apologize to Edo people for their incompetence. 

    “The PDP lacks the credibility to speak on governance, having left Edo State in a far worse condition than they met it. But Edo people are wiser now, and no amount of propaganda will erase the memory of their misrule,” Mayaki said.

  • Niger Delta women condemn ‘campaigns of calumny’ against Otuaro, Tompolo

    Niger Delta women condemn ‘campaigns of calumny’ against Otuaro, Tompolo

    …seek stakeholders’ support, unity for lasting peace

    The Delta Ijaw Women for Peace and Culture (DIWPC) have strongly condemned what they describe as “campaigns of calumny” against the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

    In a statement issued in Warri, the women also denounced attacks on TSSNL Managing Director, Engr. Kestin Pondi, accusing a former agitator—disengaged by the previous PAP leadership—of orchestrating the smear campaign.

    Signed by DIWPC National Coordinator, Comrade Mesahrun Ejiro Stella, the statement urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and Niger Delta leaders to disregard what they called “baseless rhetoric” aimed at undermining critical reforms in the Amnesty Office.

    Read Also: Niger Delta youth leaders seek arrests over planned nationwide women protest

    The group emphasized that the PAP has played a key role in promoting peace and sustainable development in the oil-rich region, and that Dr. Otuaro’s reforms deserve support rather than criticism.

    Calling for unity among stakeholders, the DIWPC stressed that only through collective effort and constructive dialogue can lasting peace be achieved in the Niger Delta. 

    They urged a shift towards recognizing the progress made by Dr. Otuaro and the leadership of Tantita Security.

    “True peace and development can only be realized through collective efforts and a commitment to constructive dialogue, not rhetoric and smear campaigns,” the group stated.

  • Niger Delta youth leaders seek arrests over planned nationwide women protest

    Niger Delta youth leaders seek arrests over planned nationwide women protest

    The Niger Delta Youth Leaders Association has called on security agencies to take decisive action against the sponsors of the planned nationwide protest by women under the aegis of the Purple Women Foundation.

    The group, in a statement by Comrade Ufuoma Erharhine, emphasised that their call was necessary due to certain factions organising demonstrations fuelled not by genuine grievances but by external influences and agendas aimed at destabilising the country.

    It said: “While we acknowledge the right to peaceful assembly as a cornerstone of our democracy, we must remain vigilant against movements intended to incite violence, unrest, and division among our citizens.

    “We urge the President to prioritise the safety and security of all citizens by directing intelligence and law enforcement agencies to investigate Chief Emma Uduaghan, the husband of Senator Natasha, who is believed to be the financier of these protests.

    “Investigating who is behind these initiatives is crucial for preventing any potential escalation that could lead to civil disorder and unrest.”

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    “The stability of our nation must remain paramount. History shows us that unrest often leads to unnecessary suffering and can have long-lasting effects on our communities and institutions.”

    “We believe that thorough investigations are necessary not only to protect our great nation but also to uphold the democratic values we cherish.”

    “We call for transparency in the findings of these investigations and urge the government to communicate with the public regarding measures being taken to ensure our safety and security.”

    “We remain resolute in defense of the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without fear or favor, as the continuous attacks on Senator Akpabio are attacks against the President and the people of the South-South.”

    “We stand ready to support the government’s commitment to peace and order and the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio. We call upon all stakeholders to do their part to foster peace because if these attacks do not stop, they will lead to unrest in the Niger Delta region.”

  • Akpabio advocates training for A’Ibom indigenes in maritime sector

    Akpabio advocates training for A’Ibom indigenes in maritime sector

    The lawmaker representing Essien Udim constituency in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, has requested for training of indigenes of the State in the maritime sector.

    Akpabio, who made the call during plenary when he sponsored a Motion on the Ibom Deep seaport, urged the State Government to initiate highly skilled manpower training in the maritime sector

    The Motion was tagged: Ibom Deep Seaport: The need for anticipatory long-term investment in education and training of indigenous manpower in the Maritime sector”.

    The House also mandated the Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport submit quarterly reports to the House through its Committee on Special Projects, Monitoring and Implementation.

    It also commended the State Governor, Umo Eno for his investment in the maritime sector.

    Akpabio II acknowledged the economic potential in the maritime sector and stressed the need to maximise the maritime resources by equipping indigenes with requisite technical know-how and skills for improved productivity.

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    He advocated adequate training for workers in the sector to bring about the much needed rapid development and encourage productivity.

    In their contributions, Deputy Speaker KufreAbasi Edidem; Hon. Kenim Onofiok (Oron/Udung Uko); Hon. Ubong Attah (Ibesikpo Asutan); and Hon. Uduak EkpoUfot (Etinan) commended Prince Ukpong Akpabio describing the motion as a timely development that will improve workmanship and effectiveness in the Maritime Sector.

    Speaker Udeme Otong, who presided over the session directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. NsikakAbasi Orok to communicate the resolution of the House to Governor Umo Eno.

    The House has adjourned plenary to Thursday, 13th March 2025.

  • Ex-militants: we are proud of Otuaro’s strides in Amnesty Office

    Ex-militants: we are proud of Otuaro’s strides in Amnesty Office

    The first set of former Niger Delta freedom fighters who accepted the Federal Government’s amnesty arose from their meeting in Port Harcourt with a resolution that all those distracting the coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Chief Dennis Otuaro should allow the man to concentrate in his assignment.

    Saying that they were proud of Otuaro’s efforts in stabilising the PAP and deliberately ensuring that beneficiaries of the amnesty programme got their dues as and when due, leaders of the first phase repentant militants said those attacking Otuaro were doing so for selfish reasons.

    They spoke as the ex-militant leaders have begun the processes of getting fresh leaders that will coordinate their activities. 

    Pioneer president of the first phase ex-militants forum, Pastor Reuben Wilson. who spoke with journalists after their meeting said they could not fold their hands and watch people run down a man who was doing very well for the amnesty programme.

    He said: “The man is doing very well in the office as the administrator. He has done very well, he has tried. At least he is truly taking the amnesty programme to higher heights. He’s been someone that has been in the struggle. 

    “100 per cent of his stay in the Niger Delta creeks was for the struggle; so he knows all the (ex-militants camp) leaders by their names. And what he is doing now, we are really happy with it. 

    “We have noticed that we have some criminal elements that are trying to bring him down, but we are here to say that their actions will amount to nothing because they are not working in the interest of the amnesty programme.”

    Wilson, a major supporter and campaigner for the emergence of President Bola Tinubu, also said it was the best decision to appoint Otuaro as head of the amnesty office. 

    He said it was gratifying to note that Otuaro was already giving proper expression to the president’s dream of a properly managed amnesty office. He said Tinubu must have seen how well Otuaro had managed the amnesty office, insisting that a greater percentage of the stakeholders were very happy with the coordinator.

    “We want him(Otuaro) to succeed and if we as major stakeholders say that Otuaro is good and active, that means he is good.  We can confirm to the world that the PAP coordinator is doing excellently well. That is why we, in the course of our meeting, decided to pass a vote of confidence on him,” he added. 

    Wilson said part of the issues Otuaro was having was his decision to close the doors against ghost contractors who were merely collecting monies but refusing to work. 

    “There are people who were making millions of naira through the back door.

    “So, as Otuaro decided to end that regime, they decided to go against him. Now, there is no way for them to make the money they were making, hence their decision to start cooking up stories in order to rubbish the man. That is all that is playing out,” he argued. 

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    Also speaking, Prince Emeka Igwe, the Imo State coordinator of the group said “Otuaro is trying to change the narrative, he is trying to change the old ways that things were being done and the system is fighting back. 

    According to him: “The SA is reaching out to the grassroots, interfacing with everybody, making sure that those that own the programme will benefit from it; that is what is happening. All of us today passed a vote of confidence on him because of his leadership style. We are very, very happy with him. 

    “Anywhere we go, we say that he is trying and we want him to do more in this line that he is going, let nothing distract him. Anytime, any day we are with him 100 per cent.”

    Nature Dumale Kieghe, the pioneer secretary of the First Phase Ex-agitators in the Niger Delta, who also spoke said:  “Among ex-agitators in the Niger Delta, over time we have been classified as the most responsible, as touching the way we do our things and presentations in different fora.

    “We have vowed that we will not bring down any of our own, we took that decision a long time ago, when Kingsley Kuko was special adviser to the president on amnesty. Now we have another administrator, in the person of Dr Dennis Otuaro, who is also our won.”

  • Nigeria engages South-South region in SDGs progress review

    Nigeria engages South-South region in SDGs progress review

    The Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) has convened a regional consultation in Uyo as part of Nigeria’s preparations for its third Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the SDGs.

    The consultation brought together key stakeholders—including government officials, civil society organizations, academics, private sector representatives, and marginalized groups—to assess progress, identify challenges, and strengthen grassroots participation. 

    According to a statement issued on Friday by Desmond Utomwen, the Special Assistant on Media to the SSAP-SDGs, insights from the discussions will feed into Nigeria’s VNR, set for presentation at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in July 2025.

    Speaking through her Senior Technical Adviser, Bala Yunusa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, underscored the importance of inclusivity in the review process.

    “The VNRs are most useful when conducted through an inclusive, participatory process. This is why we are here—to consult widely with key stakeholders across all segments of society. 

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    “This is our ‘whole-of-government and whole-of-society’ approach to SDG implementation in Nigeria,” she stated.

    Princess Orelope-Adefulire also highlighted Nigeria’s previous VNRs in 2017 and 2020, stressing that the 2025 review comes at a pivotal moment following the adoption of the ‘Pact for the Future’ at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2024.

    Representing Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Nsikak Linus Nkan, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustainable development, citing progress in healthcare, gender equality, economic growth, marine conservation, and development partnerships.

    “Akwa Ibom has made remarkable strides in key SDG areas. Our achievements reflect the dedication of government, civil society, and all stakeholders involved. However, we recognize that much work remains to be done,” Dr. Nkan said.

    In her goodwill message, Mrs. Ime David of the Akwa Ibom State SDGs Focal Office commended the initiative and encouraged stakeholders to use the forum to drive regional development.

    “This summit provides an invaluable platform to share best practices and forge partnerships. Together, we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world,” she noted.

    The South-South consultation is part of a nationwide engagement effort, with similar sessions planned in Enugu (South-East), Gombe (North-East), Kaduna (North-West), and Abuja (North-Central). 

    The process will culminate in a National Validation in Abuja, ensuring Nigeria’s 2025 VNR meets global standards.

  • Allow local refineries to survive, group urges NNPCL, NMDPRA

    Allow local refineries to survive, group urges NNPCL, NMDPRA

    …says crude oil must not be withheld from Dangote, others 

    Conference of Energy & Finance Consultants (CEFC), a group known for championing integrity, quality delivery and financial management among energy consultants, has called on the major oil regulatory agencies in Nigeria to allow local refineries function smoothly.

    The group specifically urged the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, and the CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, to encourage local refineries in Nigeria to grow.

    In a statement signed on Thursday by Engr. Anthony Igeriwa, spokesman for the Conference, the group said the call was made in the larger interest of the masses. 

    They argued that, the low importation level in January and February of the first quarter of the year 2025, has helped drastically to reduce corruption amongst the stakeholders in the country.

    “The fuel importation cabal want fuel importation to contine, and hence, they are planning to stop the release of crude oil to the Dangote Refinery and others.

    Read Also: ‘NNPCL/Dangote price war good for Nigerians’

    “The Dangote Petrochemical Refinery in Lagos, is adjudged the largest single and private refinery in Africa, and it is believed that very soon, all the neighbourhood countries and other countries would be exporting the refined fuel from Nigeria.

    “This is largely due to its richness in content and refined quality. The product is not adulterated and the supplies to the independent marketers, retailers and end users is smooth and friendly, unlike what we used to have.

    “This is the kind of things the oil cabals don’t want to see. Those who have held us hostage economically want to see us cry more. They want to see the long queue returned to our fuel stations. They want to see more of our fuel pumps and vehicles damaged by fake fuel.

    “They want the few privileged crooks to continue importing fake products to Nigeria, while they at the regulatory agencies live fat on our anguish. They want the poor to become poorer, leaving only few of them to manipulate our commonwealth. But thank God Dangote has ended their career. The rest will be history by God’s grace”, the statement added.

    The group called on National Assembly to expedite actions on the ongoing probe of the importation of adulterated petroleum products to Nigeria; urging the lawmakers to stand with the masses, by ensuring crude oil is adequately and regularly supplied to Dangote and other local refineries in Nigeria.

  • Oil spill: Bayelsa community laments neglect, pollution of river, creeks

    Oil spill: Bayelsa community laments neglect, pollution of river, creeks

    The Obololi community in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has expressed their distress that no relief has been provided following the oil leak on February 16, which discharged crude oil and contaminated the Obololi River and surrounding creeks. 

    The National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) traced the source of the leak to a 16-inch underwater pipeline running from Nun River to Kolo Creek, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC). 

    In an interview, the Chairman of the Obololi Community Development Committee (CDC), Goodnews Okoi, stated that the coastal community is experiencing severe water scarcity amid a cholera outbreak throughout the state. 

    The CDC Chairman noted that, due to the pollution of the Obololi River, which the residents previously relied upon for drinking and domestic use, they are forced to resort to purchasing sachet water at prohibitive prices.

    Okoi said, “We feel abandoned; this oil spillage has adversely impacted the entire community. We have suspended our fishing vacation as our farmlands and creeks are also not spared.

    “The cost of water has gone up by approximately 100 per cent to N50 naira per sachet and N800 per bag, the hardship is so much, given the general economic hardship.

    “Sadly, the operator of the facility has not shown any concern on the sufferings caused by the spill.

    “In fact, what the officials of SPDC tell us is that unless the Joint Investigative Visit (JIV) concludes on equipment failure, SPDC will not act.

    Read Also: Governor Diri calls for urgent action on oil spill in Bayelsa community

    “Also, we have been expecting reliefs from the state government following the visit of Bayelsa Commissioner for Environment.

    “The local government Chairman, Target Segibo, offered to rehabilitate an existing borehole. They started repairs, but the submersible pump failed, and they are yet to procure a replacement.”

    Okoi noted that the oil firm had yet to engage the community on the recommendations by NOSDRA to divert the river to enable access to the leak point.

    He explained that the community is nursing fear that creating a dam to divert the river will distort the navigability of the river.

    The CDC chair further said: “This recommendation by NOSDRA is of great concern to us. How will the boats that bring goods, merchandise, and essential items come in? The SPDC has to factor these concerns and make the operations have a human face.

    “Look at what we have been going through since the middle of February till date and the company has not provided any form of support in the face of the impact of the spill.”

    It was further learnt from Obololi community sources that the recovery of spilled crude into plastic tanks was already ongoing.

    A spokesman for SPDC, Mr Michael Adande, earlier said that the oil firm had shut oil feeds into the leaking pipeline.

    Adande pledged to update on relief, remediation, and response efforts but had yet to do so.