The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Let’s unite for stronger, more prosperous Delta at 33 – Dafinone

    Let’s unite for stronger, more prosperous Delta at 33 – Dafinone

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated the people of Delta on the 33rd anniversary of it’s creation, noting that through resilience, the State has made some progress despite numerous challenges.

    He stated with the enormous human and natural resources and a vibrant and enterprising population, Delta State has the potential to become an economic powerhouse not just in Nigeria but across Africa, lamenting the State is yet to maximise its full potential in the last 33 years.

    The Delta Central lawmaker also called on the Delta State Government to look inward by harnessing the creative energy of Delta youths to boost the economy of the state.

    He said: “On the occasion of Delta State’s 33rd anniversary, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt felicitations to all Deltans. This milestone reminds us of our shared history, aspirations, and the resilience that has kept our beloved state progressing despite numerous challenges.

    “As we celebrate this anniversary, it is a time to reflect on how far we have come and to recommit ourselves to the collective vision of a prosperous Delta State.

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    “Our state is blessed with enormous human and natural resources. From vast oil reserves to fertile lands and a vibrant, enterprising population, Delta State has the potential to be an economic powerhouse not just in Nigeria but across Africa. However, it is disheartening to note that despite these abundant resources, our state has lagged in terms of infrastructural development. The roads, healthcare, education, and other key sectors still require significant improvement if we are to meet the expectations of our people.

    “I call on the leadership of Delta State to intensify its efforts in addressing the infrastructural gaps that have hindered our progress. We must align our development with the industrial and economic hubs of Nigeria, ensuring that we can compete favourably in attracting investments, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life for our citizens. The time to act is now; we cannot afford to waste more opportunities.

    “As we look to the future, let us unite in our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Delta State. Let this anniversary be a reminder that the responsibility of building a better state lies not just with the government but with every Deltan. Together, we can transform Delta into a beacon of development and industrial growth.

    “I wish all Deltans, particularly the Urhobo Nation, a happy and reflective 33rd anniversary. May we continue to thrive, grow, and achieve the greatness that Delta State is destined for.”

  • Delta @33: Oginibo community elders, leaders, commend Oborevwori, citizens

    Delta @33: Oginibo community elders, leaders, commend Oborevwori, citizens

    Elders and leaders from the Oginibo Community in Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, have congratulated Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on the State’s 33rd anniversary.

    In a statement co-signed by Olorogun Andrew Feko Desi, Evang Lucky Chane, Prince Dan Pela, and Pa Samson Kujere, the community leaders recognized the state’s remarkable unity and resilience amid its diverse population.

    They expressed gratitude for Delta’s continued existence as a cohesive entity despite various challenges.

    The community leaders praised Governor Oborevwori for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.

    They highlighted his efforts in leveraging resources and building upon the legacy of the state’s founding fathers, ultimately transforming Delta into a notable success story.

    “We are particularly thankful to our esteemed Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, for appointing one of our distinguished sons, Hon. Reuben Izeze, as Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads).

    “We also commend his administration for its significant achievements in promoting peace, unity, security, and infrastructure development across all three senatorial districts of our beloved state,” they stated.

    “The policies and initiatives of his administration have undeniably contributed to a brighter future for Delta State through the M.O.R.E Agenda,” the elders stated.

    The elders and leaders lauded former military President General Ibrahim Babangida for the creation of Delta State thirty-three years ago.

    They also recognized the contributions of past administrations, founding fathers, and key stakeholders, emphasizing that the collective efforts of all have propelled Delta State forward since its inception.

    “We honor our founding fathers for their dedication in establishing a strong foundation for our community. Your sacrifices will always be remembered,” stated the elders and leaders.

    They praised the peaceful coexistence among the state’s diverse population, highlighting how differences in ethnicity, culture, and tradition have enriched the state’s identity and strength.

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    The leaders further noted that the unity among various ethnic groups is a divine blessing that has positively impacted the state and its inhabitants.

    “Since the formation of our state, we have thrived in peace and unity, sharing a common destiny despite our varied backgrounds,” they remarked.

    Encouraging residents to nurture the love and unity present in the state, the elders and leaders called on all Deltans to promote initiatives that enhance communal bonds.

    They urged the citizens to continue their support for Governor Oborevwori, ensuring that the state reaches its full potential in alignment with the visions of its founders.

    “As representatives of the Oginibo Community, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our diligent Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, as well as to former governors, founding fathers, and all Deltans on this significant occasion marking our 33rd anniversary.

    “We ask the Lord God Almighty to guide us in becoming a strong, united, peaceful, and prosperous community, united by a shared destiny,” the community stated.

  • Reps member Onuoha slams Atiku on NNPCL’s acquisition of OVH, cautions against politicisation

    Reps member Onuoha slams Atiku on NNPCL’s acquisition of OVH, cautions against politicisation

    House of Representatives member for Isiala Mbano / Onuimo / Okigwe Federal Constituency, Hon Miriam Onuoha, said the oil and gas sector of the economy was too critical to be politicised.

    Onuoha stated that while constructive criticism was necessary to strengthen the sector in the national interest, deploying propaganda and blackmail to score cheap political points was unhelpful, and worse, unpatriotic.

    She was reacting to a statement by a former Vice President Atiku Abubakar asking the Federal Government to explain why Oando got accelerated approval in AGIP/ENI Purchase, wherein she was quoted to have moved a motion directing the suspension of OVH assets.

    In a statement entitled: “THE ATIKU ABUBAKAR ALLEGATION ABOUT NNPC’S ACQUISITION OF OVH”, Onuoha said: “My attention has been drawn to a press release signed by one Phrank Shaibu, on behalf of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, titled: “Atiku to FG: Explain Why Oando Got Accelerated Approval in AGIP/ENI Purchase,” issued on August 25, 2024, wherein I was quoted to have moved a motion directing the suspension of OVH assets.

    “The press release reads: “In July 2023, the House of Representatives, following the adoption of a motion moved by Miriam Onuoha, directed NNPC Ltd to suspend the acquisition of OVH assets pending an investigation by its committee.”

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    “For the record, on July 28, 2023, I sponsored a motion on the “Need to Investigate the Irregularities and Alleged Corruption in the Nigerian Energy Security Provider, NNPC Retail Limited and the Acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing,” in response to petition by staff members of NNPC Limited, who were unsure of their employment status following the acquisition of OVH by NNPC Limited, and subsequent relocation of NNPC Retail Limited to Lagos.

    “Following this motion, an ad hoc Committee was set up by the House leadership, and to which I was named a member, to investigate the allegations.”

    She stated further: “I would like to state that the Committee invited the Group CEO of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, the Head of NNPC Retail Limited, and their management staff members, who appeared before the Committee where they gave reasons for the acquisition of OVH, as well as the procedures followed in the acquisition. They also rationalized the relocation to Lagos, which according to them, was to enable easy access to the market.

    “From their submissions and the bills, it was obvious that members and management of NNPC Retail were constantly commuting to Abuja to engage in trade, which was not only expensive but was also resulting in loss of man-hour, among other challenges.

    “Some staff members of NNPC Limited, who wrote and submitted the petition were also engaged by the Committee, and their fears were allayed on account of the detailed explanation by the NNPC management, and the Committee’s ability to ensure a transparent investigation.

    “In the course of the investigation, the Committee undertook a tour of the NNPC Retail facilities in Lagos. The exercise showed that the facilities were in good condition.”

    Onuoha continued: “I would like to take this opportunity to commend the management and leadership of NNPC Retail Limited, and indeed, the Group CEO of NNPC Limited, for his pragmatic leadership approach to transparent operations in the energy sector, and management of the NNPC Limited.

    “In the course of the investigation, the Committee found that President Bola Tinubu had taken some commendable steps to reposition the oil and gas sector.

    “The Committee also discovered that the NNPC Limited, under Mele Kyari, had made significant strides in enhancing transparency and accountability within the company. For instance, despite the criticisms it had received in recent times, the national oil company trumped the distractions by releasing its annual financial statement for 2023, wherein it posted a number of positive results. This demonstrates transparency.

    “Mele Kyari’s leadership has been characterised by a commitment to openness, which has fostered and bolstered trust and confidence in and among stakeholders. This, understandably, aligns with the implementation of his leadership’s Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) Agenda, which aims to ensure that NNPC’s operations are open, transparent, and accountable. This management philosophy, from our findings, has involved various measures, such as regular reporting, public disclosure of financial information, and collaboration with external auditors.:

    She added: “Also more importantly, the NNPC has increased its communication efforts to engage with the public and address growing concerns. This includes regular press conferences, social media updates, and community outreach programmes.

    “Without a doubt, Kyari’s leadership has contributed to building a more transparent and accountable NNPC. His efforts have helped to restore public trust in the NNPC and to position the company as a more responsible corporate citizen. Even so, there is still room for improvement.

    “While, as a legislator, I will continue to hold the Executive accountable, I will not allow myself to be used as an instrument of witch-hunt, blackmail, and intimidation. I will not be a willing tool for the opposition to destroy the good work of Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Tinubu, who is the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

    “The oil and gas sector is very critical to the Nigerian economy. It should not be politicised. While constructive criticism is necessary to strengthen the sector in the interest of our nation, deploying propaganda and blackmail to score cheap political points is unhelpful, and worse, unpatriotic.”

  • Group plans honour for ex-Governor Udom

    Group plans honour for ex-Governor Udom

    G35, a group of professionals in Akwa Ibom, is planning to honour the immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel for what it called his many achievements while in office.

    Accordingly, the group is instituting a maiden lecture in September to celebrate the former Governor as well as launch a magazine to espouse his landmark infrastructural accomplishments in the eight years of his administration.

    Leader of the G53, Mr. James Akpan, who disclosed this in a statement issued to the Nation on Friday, explained that professionals in the state cannot afford to ignore the enormous contributions of leaders in the state.

    Akpan stated that ex-Governor Emmanuel recorded numerous achievements in the areas of infrastructure, human capital empowerment, especially in the aviation sector as exemplified in the birth of Ibom Air.

    He said, “It is very important that a man who has done excellently well on human capital empowerment, infrastructural development, securing the lives of the state for 8 years must be celebrated after leaving office. 

    “Udom Emmanuel’s achievements have endeared him to the people. He created strategies for the state to be among the top development states in the country and beyond.

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    “He started Ibom Air that has become a strong brand today, transited very peacefully to another without violence as was recorded In many places.

    “Udom built institutions, people, and upheld the values of our the state into enviable heights. We cannot continue to ignore our leaders when they leave their office. The practice must stop because it would encourage incoming leaders to do more for us. W are breaking the record.

    “We are not hosting the former governor and also instituting Udom Emmanuel’s first annual lecture on sustainable leaders with the launching of a magazine of his achievements in 8 years”.

    Akpan said that the annual lecture will be sponsored by the G35 as a way  setting the pace to promote good leadership in Akwa Ibom state and beyond.

    “We are committed to promoting leadership in the state and beyond. Our people’s achievements around the world must be celebrated. The programme is slated for September 2024 , everything is ready and cultural and carnivals will be displayed.

    “We will showcase the Akwa Ibom spirit of love unity and togetherness because udom Emmanuel’s is a unifier. His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno will be invited as the special guest of Honour as we are ready to celebrate the great son of Akwa Ibom who did us proud”,  the statement added.

  • Dafinone donates food items to Okuama IDP Camp

    Dafinone donates food items to Okuama IDP Camp

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has presented food items worth millions to the people of Okuama at the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons Camp at Ewu-Urhobo community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

    The lawmaker also called on the Federal Government to work with the Delta State government and commence the process of rebuilding and resettling the people of Okuama in their ancestral home.

    He also appealed to international donor agencies to come to the aid of the Okuama people, noting that the situation at Okuama is an international humanitarian crisis that needs global efforts to rebuild and resettle the people.

    He called on the authorities of the Army to follow democratic principles in dealings with Okuama leaders arrested this week.

     Stressing that the rights of the civilians arrested must be respected and they should not be subjected to any form of abuse; rather, they should be brought to civil court to answer any allegations against them.

    The Senator, who presented two live cows, 100 cartoons of indomie noodles, 20 cartons of Soya oils and four bags of Garri, vowed not to rest on his oars until Okuama is rebuilt and the indigenes are returned to their ancestral homes.

    He said: “This is not one visit or one-stop matter as the plight of those that have been displaced must continue to resonate in the public space and the space of concerned Nigerians who seek to help to ensure that they are rehabilitated and then life continues normally as soon as possible.

    “Words reached me about a week ago that they were short of protein, and this visit was to deliver the two cows, 100 cartons of noodles, 20 cartons of Soya oils and four bags of garri. I know this does not solve the problem of the camp. But it is a small contribution towards maintaining the nutrition of the children and adults in the camp and on a larger and wider scale.

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    “Since my last visit, my office has continued to reach out to the federal government, and international agencies, to see what help can be provided, aides to those at the camp and rebuilding of Okuama which are the more significant matters that need to be brought to the attention not of Deltan but Nigerians and the global community as a whole.

    Senator Dafinone, who was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Olorogun Adelabu Bodjor and other APC faithful, disclosed that he is hoping to get positive reports soon and it is part of his assignments to look and care for citizens of Delta Central.

    Receiving the items, the Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, commended Senator Dafinone for standing with the people of Okuama in their trying time, noting Dafinone had been at the forefront in trying to resolve the Okuama crisis.

    Ogbodo, the former editor of the Guardian Newspaper, also called on well-meaning individuals and originations to support the ongoing efforts in rebuilding and resettling Okuama people to their ancestral homes.

    He said; “Senator, we can’t thank you enough that you are not just coming here for the first time; you have been involved in Okuama matter.

    “Right from day one, you have been so central to everything about this Okuama matter, when the king was taken into custody, you and your fellow national legislators were so deep in it.

    “You went all the way to ensure things went well, and the most beautiful thing you have said here now is that you are aware that new arrests have been made, and you are on it.

    “When you came the other time, you took a study survey of the place and needed to know our needs, and you didn’t come with only 100 cartons of indomie; you came with two live cows, and that is most significant.

    “As I have always noted, yes, you are a senator representing Delta Central, representing Urhobo ethnic nationality, but this a humanitarian crisis, and what we are projecting here is humanity that knows no religion, geographical boundaries or politics.

    “What we are talking about is to be united in times like this so that we can help ourselves, helping the children of God, and God will use his other children to help children that are in distress, and that is what you come here to do for us.

    “For the fact that you are an Urhobo may not be taken for granted because there other Urhobo that may not come in this manner.

    “I am using this opportunity to appeal to others, not just those that are in the cadre of leadership, but everybody with capacity and of goodwill should respond to this call because the people do not survive to leave here with the body and soul; they would not be able to take possession of their homes.”

  • Ex-agitators’ leader Oputu reaffirms loyalty to Tompolo

    Ex-agitators’ leader Oputu reaffirms loyalty to Tompolo

    Ex-Agitators’ Leader and Senior Special Assistant on Security to Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon. Aroni Oputu has reaffirmed his loyalty to High Chief Government O. Ekpemukpolo aka Tompolo.

    In a statement to newsmen, Oputu said it was necessitated by the misinterpretation in some quarters, following his comment sometimes ago, calling on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, for a direct award of a portion of the pipeline security and surveillance contract in Egbema Kingdom of Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.

    He said: “I wish to use this medium to emphatically reaffirm my unflinching loyalty and respect for High Chief Government O.Ekpemupolo, a.k.a.Tompolo. My loyalty to my most revered leader is unflinching, undiluted and unimpeachable.

    “This public reaffirmation is necessitated by the misinterpretation in some quarters, of my press statement calling on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to award us direct pipeline security and surveillance contract in Egbema Kingdom of Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.”

    Oputu, who was also one-time Special Assistant to ex-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, noted that; “the said press statement at that time, was not intended to cause disaffection between us and our Leader, High Chief Government O. Ekpemupolo nor was it intended to discredit him or any Niger Delta stakeholder.

    “Our Leader is doing so much for us and his security and surveillance company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited is doing a perfect and fantastic job but we also just wanted to be directly involved in the pipeline security and surveillance contract process with the NNPC LTD.

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    “I therefore advice those who are bent on exploiting the above-stated situation to further cause disaffection between me and my most revered leader for selfish and pecuniary reasons,to desist from such divisive acts and rather focus on promoting peace and unity among us”

    Continuing, he said: “I wish to also use this medium to commend the management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for its efficient and effective management of the operations of the company and for the groundbreaking success of the company in curtailing the criminal activities of oil thieves and vandals in the Niger Delta region.

    “Finally, I hereby mostly sincerely congratulate my most revered leader, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a.k.a.Tompolo, and the management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for the renewal of its pipeline security and surveillance contract with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited,” he added.

  • Itsekiri Nation remains committed to equity, peace, justice- Olu of Warri

    Itsekiri Nation remains committed to equity, peace, justice- Olu of Warri

    The Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has expressed gratitude to God on ascension of his forebears throne three years ago. 

    He renewed the call for peace, social  justice and equity with his neighbors towards the development of the area.

    Speaking at a grand reception at the palace yesterday when subjects from across the various Iwere communities paid him homage as part of the activities to mark his 3rd Coronation Anniversary celebration, the Olu was full of praises and thanksgiving to God for the journey so far.

    The revered Monarch who spoke in English and Itsekiri languages, stated: “Three years ago, the Itsekiri nation extended hand of peace and collaboration to her neighbours on the land and sea. Since then, we’ve made significance strides in promoting peace and co-existence based on love and mutual respect for all.

     “We stand on the universal foundation of justice and peace and equity within the rule of law and we are committed to maintaining this peaceful and respectful relationships ensuring the safety and peace of all. Our progress is a testimony to our commitment to this end.

    “Last year, we varnished the term slaves from our palace because we believe that all are created equal by God. And this will affirm their beliefs in the equality of all. We re created by God and we have equal dignity but we are also committed to change. If we don’t change, we are dying.

    “Aghofen is the symbol of refuge and a place to seek refuge. We welcome all Itsekiris to the crown. 

    “Our collective dreams and aspirations can only be fulfilled through unity. If I may also add, humility.

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    “As Itsekiri people, looking back we may have good reason to have a sense of pride and that’s fine. But in going forward, there’s a type of pride that we must do away with. The pride that hinders, the pride that blinds, the pride that divides, the pride that carnibalises, the pride that betrays, the pride that destroys. 

    “We don’t have to remain proud and certainly don’t have to remain wicked. Not only has God given us authority over this Kingdom, He HS given us creative powers and He has given us powerful example by calling for light out of darkness. 

    “In this same way, Itsekiri, I call you out of useless pride. I call you out of wickedness and in its place, I bless you with wisdom, with vision, with industry, with creativity,with productivity and with fruitfulness. 

    “May your eyes be opened to embrace and appraise these new values as we embark on a new phase of togetherness in Iwere land. The new phase promises growth, prosperity and a stronger sense of commitment.”

    The event was attended by Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who was ably represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari and traditional rulers from across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

  • Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, on his third coronation anniversary. 

    The lawmaker, in a statement, described the Olu of Warri as a leader filled with wisdom, compassion, and a progressive vision for his people.

    The statement reads: “On this auspicious occasion of the third anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, Olu of Warri, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty, the royal family, and the entire people of the Itsekiri nation. 

    “This remarkable milestone marks three years of enlightened leadership, profound cultural preservation, and significant progress for the Itsekiri nation under the reign of His Majesty.

    “Since ascending the throne, Your Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III’s reign has been characterized by peace, development, and the promotion of unity among all ethnic groups within the kingdom. Your Majesty’s commitment to fostering harmony and supporting economic initiatives has greatly enhanced the welfare of his subjects and strengthened the Itsekiri identity on both national and global platforms.

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    “The Olu of Warri’s dynamic leadership, particularly in navigating the complexities of modern governance while upholding the rich traditions of the Itsekiri nation, is a testament to your foresight and deep-rooted commitment to the prosperity of your people. 

    “As we celebrate the third anniversary of your coronation, I join the people of Delta Central and the entire Delta State in wishing  Your Majesty continued wisdom, good health, and strength to carry on your noble responsibilities. 

    “May your reign continue to bring enduring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Itsekiri nation and may his legacy inspire future generations of leaders across our great nation.

    “Once again, congratulations to Your Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III on this significant occasion.”

  • Protect interest of micro-minorities In Niger Delta, panelist urges FG

    Protect interest of micro-minorities In Niger Delta, panelist urges FG

    A member of discussant panel at the 3rd Coronation Anniversary Lecture of the Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiamme Atuwatse III, Chief Robinson Ariyo, the Egogo (Mouthpiece) of Warri Kingdom, has urged the federal government to set up a commission to protect the interest of Micro- Minorities in the Niger Delta region.

    Speaking on the anniversary lecture theme; “The challenges of ethnic minorities within the Nigerian State,” yesterday at the Olu’s Palace Auditorium (Aghofen), Chief Ariyo, decried the conceived oppression and marginalisation of the ethnic micro minorities by the majority ethnic groups even at the sub-regional level.

    He lamented the present arrangement where all three ethnic nationalities would collectively agitate for dividends of democracy either in terms of infrastructures or political appointments but when such finally comes the majority ethnic groups within the region would hijack it, leaving the micro-minorities with nothing to show for it at the end of the struggle.

    The Egogo of the Iwere kingdom suggested the need for the various micro-minorities to begin to come together to synergies on how to chat a common course of liberating themselves, urging the Itsekiri nation to see the Ogoni’s and other ethnic groups they shared this same status as allies, in order to protect their interest.

    Ariyo, a legal practitioner, also stressed the importance of proper implementation of existing laws and policies to protect the rights of micro-minorities and ensure their survival in a landscape dominated by more prominent minority groups, noting that Nigerian constitution guarantees the survival of all ethnic nationalities in any part of the country.

    However, the itsekiries who occupy three local government within the region, such as the Ecules, who predominantly reside in only three local government areas, argue that the definition of “minority” has been too broad and fails to capture their unique challenges.

    According to him: “within the Niger Delta, there are relative majorities who have benefitted significantly from the struggles of the so-called minorities.

    “This, they argued, has led to the oppression of micro-minorities by larger minority groups, particularly when it comes to accessing benefits from initiatives such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Amnesty office”

    Continuing he said: “The Amnesty office, established in response to the demands of the Niger Delta region, has been dominated by these larger minority groups.

    “This has led to the marginalization of micro-minorities, such as the Ogoni people, who now seek to form alliances with other micro-minorities to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are recognized.

    “The Itsekiri people, who are a minority within Delta State, have been systematically excluded from key positions in the state government.

    “Over the past nine years, itsekiries have been absent from top executive roles, including the positions of governor, deputy governor, and key commissioner posts in Delta State

    “The call to redefine “minority” is not just about semantics but about ensuring that all groups, particularly micro-minorities, receive fair representation and access to the benefits intended for marginalized communities.

    The ceremony witnessed Itsekiri sons and daughters in Delta State, paid homage to the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III as he celebrates his third (3rd) coronation anniversary. A delegation all over itsekiri lands

    The Itsekiri indigenes, who paid homage to the Revered Monarch were from Sapele, Bobi and Obonteghareda Communities.

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    Others are; Holy Covenant Church, Ugboegungun, Aja-Etan, Dibi Field home-based women, Itsekiri Staff of College of Education, Warri, Ugbajo-Itsekiri, delegation from Warri South Council and members of University of Benin Alumni Association, Warri chapter, also paid homage to the Monarch.

    The different groups, entertained the King with elegant dance steps and Itsekiri cultural songs, paying allegiance to the King’s reign on the exalted throne.

    The Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III, flanked by his Queen, Olori Atuwatse III, later offered prayers to his subjects, including palace chiefs, who greeted him as tradition demands.

    Other panel of discussants included; Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, Sir A. S Mene, while Prof Benson Osadalor, former Acting VC Ambrose Ali University (AAU) delivered the main lecture of the day.

  • Igbuya praises Ibori, Dafinone, others for birthday felicitations

    Igbuya praises Ibori, Dafinone, others for birthday felicitations

    Delta State Representative, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Hon. Monday Igbuya, has praised Delta political leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori; Senator Ede Dafinone; Delta APC leaders, friends and associates for celebrating with him on his 68th birthday anniversary.

    Chief Igbuya, who was a former Delta Speaker, while commending those who came to celebrate with him in Sapele, urged politicians and public servants not to discard their childhood friends, noting that after the pep of office, they will retire home to meet them.

    He noted, that outside his political associates, he has continued to keep and relate with them and enjoined others not to forsake their friends.

    According to him,: “God has been faithful, and may his name be praised! On this special occasion of my birthday, I want to humbly express my profound gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, mercy, and boundless love.

    “His faithfulness in my life has been immeasurable, and I remain deeply thankful for His continuous guidance, protection, and strength that has carried me through the journey of life. Each day is a gift, and today, I celebrate not just the years, but the countless blessings and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today.

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    “I also want to thank my Boss, His Excellency Chief James Onanefe Ibori, for his love and continued support towards me and my family; I am eternally grateful to him and don’t take his love for granted.

    “I am overwhelmed by the show of love. I am thankful to my brother and our Senator, Senator Ede Dafinone for coming to celebrate with me.

    “I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Delta State in various capacities, most recently as their representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and as a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

    “These roles have been both humbling and inspiring, and I thank God for the wisdom He has provided to lead with integrity and commitment. The trust the people have placed in me is something I cherish deeply, and I remain dedicated to continuing my efforts in advancing the development and welfare of our great state and the Niger Delta region.

    “Finally, I want to thank my family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their unwavering support, prayers, and encouragement. As I reflect on this milestone, I am filled with immense gratitude and look forward to the future with optimism and hope, knowing that God’s hand will continue to guide my path. I remain committed to the service of our people, and I pray for continued peace, prosperity, and progress for Delta State and our beloved country, Nigeria. Thank you, and may God bless us all.”