The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Abigborodo community denies claims in Seplat host community dispute

    Abigborodo community denies claims in Seplat host community dispute

    The Abigborodo community in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State has dismissed allegations by Sapele Okpe community over land ownership and claims of bias in the recognition of host communities by Seplat Energy under the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, of 2021.

    In a statement by Hon. Misan Ukubehinje, Chairman of the Abigborodo Management Committee and other community leaders, the Abigborodo community described the allegations as baseless and aimed at distorting facts. 

    “From time immemorial, Abigborodo has been the rightful owner of the land where Seplat operates, including Ugbekoko, which houses Seplat’s jetty and oil wells,” Ukubehinje stated.

    The dispute arose after the Sapele Okpe, Ugbukurusu, and other communities accused Delta State’s Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor, of partiality. They claimed his actions favored the Abigborodo and Obotie communities in the land ownership dispute.

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    Abigborodo leaders, however, dismissed these claims, asserting that the Peace Building Committee’s January 16, 2025, site visit was conducted transparently with the participation of security and government officials. 

    “The accusations of bias against Chief Uzor are distractions meant to delay justice,” the statement read.

    The Abigborodo community also accused Seplat Energy of sidelining them as a host community and continuing operations on their land despite multiple protests. “Seplat’s refusal to recognize us as a host community amounts to trespassing. We have written numerous letters and staged peaceful protests, yet our demands are ignored,” Ukubehinje said.

    The protests, held in November 2024, led to a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Nigerian Army’s 90 Amphibious Battalion. Despite agreements to suspend operations temporarily, Seplat reportedly escalated the matter by petitioning the Delta State Governor.

    Abigborodo leaders refuted claims by the Sapele Okpe community that the issue involved the Okpe Sobo forest reserve. “The forest reserve matter was resolved and gazetted in 2021. This current dispute concerns Seplat’s operations in riverine areas clearly within our land,” Ukubehinje explained.

    The community also noted that Ugbukurusu, one of the claimants, is located over 15 kilometers from the contested area, further discrediting their claims.

    Abigborodo leaders appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to ignore calls for Chief Uzor’s removal and allow the investigation to proceed without interference. “We trust that the truth will prevail. Justice must not be delayed,” they said.

    The community also condemned attempts to implicate Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri, in the dispute. “Dragging our revered leader’s name into this matter is defamatory and unwarranted,” they added.

    As tensions persist, the Abigborodo community expressed readiness to engage further in defending their rights. “We welcome additional investigations. The evidence remains clear, and we will continue to assert our rightful status as Seplat’s host community,” Ukubehinje said.

    The land ownership dispute highlights challenges in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act and recognising host communities. 

    While Abigborodo seeks justice and protection of their ancestral land, the Sapele Okpe community demands inclusion and fairness. 

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has been urged to mediate and bring lasting resolution to the escalating tensions.

  • Delta North group rallies constituents ahead 2027

    Delta North group rallies constituents ahead 2027

    A new political group in Delta State, Delta North Progressives, has urged its constituents to close ranks, take their rightful place and speak assertively in the countdown to the next electoral cycle 2027.

    The group comprises eminent professionals, politicians and leaders of thought from the nine local government areas of Delta North Senatorial District.

    The convener, Prof. Leroy Edozien, said in a statement that the group’s mandate was to ensure that Anioma is united, visible, and audible in the run-up to 2027.

    He said, “In the rapidly evolving political climate ahead of the next electoral cycle, Delta North senatorial district must gear up, take its rightful place and speak assertively.

    “Towards this end, leaders in the progressive movement should work in harmony, build cohesion, and uphold the basic tenets of democracy. 

    “In pursuit of this goal, a formidable group of eminent professionals, politicians, and leaders of thought from the nine local government areas in Delta North senatorial district has been convened with a mandate to ensure that the senatorial district is united, visible and vocal ahead of the next political dispensation. 

    “The group has held brainstorming sessions and is reaching out to prominent sons and daughters of Anioma to intimate them of its objectives and secure their buy-in.”

    Prof. Edozien said the “self-funded group is resolutely committed to ensuring that, going forward, the district gets a fair deal, politically speaking.” 

    He called for unity among Anioma’s sons and daughters. 

  • You are a peace builder, outstanding lawmaker, Omo-Agege tells Evance Ivwurie at 58

    You are a peace builder, outstanding lawmaker, Omo-Agege tells Evance Ivwurie at 58

    Hon. Evance Ochuko Ivwurie as been described as community peace maker who utilised his time as a lawmaker to consolidate peaceful coexistence among the communities in his constituency. 

    Former Senate Deputy President Ovie Omo-Agege, gave the commendation in his goodwill message to the former lawmaker on his 58th birthday. 

    Ivwurie’s peaceful disposition was demonstrated through the swiftness with which he intervened to resolve the Ovre-r’eku and Ovre-r’igun dispute during his time as member representing Ethiope East Local Government Area in the Delta House of Assembly, Omo-Agege recalled.

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    “As a lawmaker, you chose to walk with your constituents as shown in your advocacy and untiring intervention for the provision of infrastructural and developmental amenities for your people. 

    “It is a legacy that precedes you and continues to speak for you,” the former Deputy Senate President who was the gubernatorial flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 elections,” he stated.

    Omo-Agege urged him to continue on his pro-people trajectory, saying that at a time like this, politicians and leaders are needed to stand up for their constituents.

  • Niger Delta youths pledge support for Tinubu’s reforms

    Niger Delta youths pledge support for Tinubu’s reforms

    …laud PAP boss Otuaro, Tantita Security Services

    Youths, under the auspices of the Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders, have lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative reforms aimed at fostering sustainable development and economic growth in Nigeria.

    The leader, Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders (CNDYS), ‘General’ Bodmas Kemepadei, stated in a statement on Friday that the coalition recognised the President’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing the nation, particularly in the Niger Delta region, and pledged unwavering support for his initiatives.

    Kemepadei said: “President Tinubu’s administration has undertaken significant steps to enhance transparency, boost investment, and empower local communities. 

    “These reforms are crucial not only for the prosperity of the Niger Delta but for the entire nation as well. The coalition believes that with these measures, Nigeria is on the path to achieving greater socio-economic stability and environmental sustainability.

    “We are encouraged by President Tinubu’s proactive approach to governance and his dedication to uplifting the lives of our people. “His focus on infrastructure development, job creation, and youth empowerment resonates deeply with us. We believe that these reforms will pave the way for a brighter future for the Niger Delta and beyond.”

    The CNDYS leader noted that despite widespread outcry by critics, President Tinubu had pushed forward with Tax Reform Bills aimed at harmonizing multiple taxes into a single levy, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and enhancing compliance. 

    He said by lowering the overall tax burden, the Tinubu administration had introduced significant measures that would stimulate business activities, particularly for struggling enterprises. 

    Kemepadei asserted: “The theory behind the reforms posits that improved compliance and a broader tax base could significantly increase government revenue, enabling investments in public services. 

    “Revenue diversification is critical to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil and cushioning the economy against volatile global oil prices.”

    The coalition boss also highlighted that the Tinubu government had introduced tax exemptions for low-income earners and essential goods to reduce financial pressure on economically disadvantaged Nigerians. 

    He said the proposed ₦826 billion for education in 2025 aims to enhance literacy, skills acquisition, and workforce productivity. 

    Similarly, the ₦402 billion for healthcare seeks to improve health outcomes, directly impacting human capital development, he indicated.

    Kemepadei also hailed the Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for his giant strides and achievements in the Niger Delta region and contributions to the Nigerian economy leading to N50.88tn rise of crude oil revenue in 2024, a milestone achievement as described by the NNPCL. 

    According to him, the data obtained from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, an agency of the federal government, confirmed that Nigeria produced a total of 408,680,457 barrels of crude oil in 2024, kudos to TSSNL, the NNPCL, Nigeria Petroleum Minister and other agencies including the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme Dr. Dennis Otuaro for his leadership approach that had kept the Niger Delta region in relative peace.

    Kemepadei stated: “The Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders stands ready to collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms. 

    “We urge our fellow youths in the region to engage positively and contribute to the nation-building efforts championed by President Tinubu and other leaders from the region especially, High Chief Government Oweizede Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, PAP Administrator, High. Chief Kestin Pondi, TSSNL Managing Director and other notable personalities.

    “In solidarity with the President’s vision, we call upon all other stakeholders, including local communities, civil society organisations, and the private sector, to join hands in supporting these transformative initiatives. Together, we can create a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria for all.”

  • Ebie visits scene, victims of Agbor tanker explosion, pledges assistance

    Ebie visits scene, victims of Agbor tanker explosion, pledges assistance

    Emotions ran high on Wednesday as the Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, visited and commiserated with victims of a tanker explosion which occurred on Sunday in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

    He met with some of the victims at the scene of the explosion where survivors and families of those who had perished in the tragic incident made a heart wrenching narration of how their lives transformed into doom and despair within a twinkle of an eye.

    Ebie described the explosion as the most unfortunate and monumental tragedy Agbor had suffered in recent time, lamenting that the incident occurred when residents of the town were returning to their normal daily life after the Christmas and new year festivities.

    He pledged succour and support for the affected persons.

    “First of all, this is the most unfortunate incident that occurred this year. Most especially, at this time of the year when people had just completed the end of the year festivities and are excited for the prospects of the new year. Then, we have this unfortunate incident.

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    “We have two categories of people. We have those that lost their loved ones, and were severely affected. And those that have lost their sources of livelihood. Whatever the case may be, we commiserate with both sets of people. It’s unfortunate,” he said.

    The NDDC chairman appealed to governments at all levels and government institutions and good spirited individuals to come to the aid of the victims, including persons who lost their properties and means of livelihood to the inferno.

    “I was out of state and I just came into Agbor this morning to see for myself. We will definitely see how best we can support the affected persons. As you can see, people have lost their sources of livelihood, properties.

    ” So, we call on not just government institutions but also good spirited individuals to come to their aid. But definitely, we’ll support them. We’re going to compile the list of those affected, and determine the losses incurred.

    “For those that lost material things, we will see how best we can support them, so that they can get their businesses back on track,” Ebie said.

    On safety measures to forestall future occurrence, the NDDC boss urged relevant authorities to take immediate precautionary measures to prevent reoccurrence of such ugly incidents.

    “In Agbor particularly, this is the second time in the past four years. A couple of years ago, we had one, around Obi Road, along the expressway. Yet again, that was caused by a tanker driver as well.

    “Now, for the safety measures, tanker drivers and drivers in general should exercise due control and make sure that their vehicles are roadworthy. This is the middle of town. I just can’t imagine how fast you’re driving. You need to try.

    “I’m also calling on the Federal Road Safety Corps to ensure that road users adhere to rules and guidelines of the road. But more importantly, they should make sure these vehicles are roadworthy. Because I understand that the brakes of these vehicles probably failed,” he said.

    Speaking further, Ebie observed that “many of these things(accidents) were never planned. I know the tiers of government will rise up to the occasion. The most important thing is, you don’t know who is next. It can happen to anybody. So, all of us, not just government as well, good spirited individuals should please join the government so that we can regulate the hardship and excess sufferings.
    ‘’As you know, we’re an interventionist agency and we work with all tiers of government. We’ll find out from them, what they have, what they get from the federal government and also the state government. Because I do know that the state government supports the federal fire service. When we get there, we’ll hear from them.”

    Responding on behalf of the victims, including those who lost properties and businesses to the tanker explosion, Mr. Sunday Omoruyi lauded Ebie for visiting them at the critical moment of their lives. “I am not surprised that you visited us. Your antecedent has always been that of a good man. And I know that the more you rise, the more it will benefit us. We’re praying for you,” Omoruyi said.

    He pleaded for support from all and appealed to the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, to use his good offices to prevail on relevant agencies to ensure that such an incident was permanently prevented in the future.

    Ebie and his entourage later visited and condoled with the family of Mr. Festus Adomgbor who lost his wife, Debora to the inferno.

    Consoling the bereaved husband, Ebie said: “We cannot question the ways of the Lord. But all we can say is that we thank God for your life and we hope that with time, you will be able to bear and get over the loss of your dear wife.

    ” On behalf of every one of us, please accept our deepest condolences. It is sudden and unfortunate that you lost your dear wife to the fire incident that occurred a few days ago. Please accept our condolences. We pray that God will give you and the family, the fortitude to bear this loss.”

    Responding, Mr Adomgbor expressed gratitude to Mr. Ebie and his team, noting that the show of love he received was overwhelming.

    He also paid a condolence visit to Mr. Ifeanyi, another bereaved who lost his dear wife, Elizabeth to ugly occurrence.

    Ebie expressed messages of consolation, saying “it is just very unfortunate. It is very unfortunate. You have young children who will now grow without a mother. But in times like this, the only way people can get over it is when people come to support, come to commiserate, and show you plenty of love.We will be with you, we will support you. On behalf of the Niger Delta Development Commission, we offer our deepest condolences.’’

  • Tinubu gave Niger Delta best NDDC management team, say Ijaw stakeholders

    Tinubu gave Niger Delta best NDDC management team, say Ijaw stakeholders

    Ijaw stakeholders under the auspices of the Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assembling the best management team to run the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    The President of MOSIEND, Amb. Kennedy Tonjo West, said for his choices of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director and other personalities he appointed as directors, Tinubu without bias demonstrated his interest in the development and growth of the Niger Delta.

    West, in a statement on Sunday, said the performance of the board in 2024 had justified the intentions of Mr. President in selecting them to run the affairs of the commission.

    He said the Ogbuku-led board demonstrated mutual respect and an unprecedented level of dedication to addressing the challenges plaguing the region.

    He said: “When President Tinubu constituted the NDDC Board, many were skeptical due to the infighting that led to the dismantling of the other board but today, the strides made by this technically sound and development focused team have proven doubters wrong.

    “The Tinubu administration is receiving commendation from many quarters for getting it right as regards appointments made into the commission and other departments of the government, a thing that eluded past administrations”.

    West said Ogbuku demonstrated an open door policy, detrabilized, and humble disposition in adopting some of the suggestions and advice he received during the interactive sessions and stakeholders engagements into his programmes.

    He said: “We urge Mr President to take the board very seriously and approve every facility to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda in the region. MOSIEND is not a partisan organisation but with the passion and unwavering commitment of the NDDC board and with this high level of performance, we are tempted to say Mr President may clinch the whole region if he contests for a second term”.

    West advised the state governors in the region to jettison party sentiments and collaborate among themselves to further advance the development of the region.

    He said: “The NDDC’s performance reflects President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and it has restored the faith of the Niger Delta people in the commission’s mandate. We hope that those, who take delight in obstructing meaningful development of the Niger Delta region will take a break this time around and allow the dream of the commission come through”.

    West said Ogbuku kept his pledge to adhere strictly to the President’s directive on completing all ongoing projects in the region including roads, bridges, schools and healthcare facilities.

    He said the commission also embarked on human capital development to give the citizens of the region a sense of belonging.

    He said a major plus for the Ogbuku led administration was the setting up of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) to stimulate economic activities in the region

    “This singular feat designed to foster economic growth and peace in the oil-rich region seeks to engage youths in meaningful ventures and promote entrepreneurship through structured support from the NDCCITMA.

    He said NDDC introduced free medical services, provided financial support for life-threatening illnesses for individuals, and equipped hospitals to improve healthcare delivery in the region.

    West said the commission’s postgraduate scholarship programme for indigenes of the Niger Delta created opportunities for academic and professional growth adding that the commission completed abandoned big ticket projects that dotted the landscape of the region.

    He said: “To put an end to the reoccurring case of youth restiveness, the commission put in place youth based programmes like Project Hope, the Niger Delta Investment Scheme and internship initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and empowering the youths.

    “For the first time, ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta are united in their support for the NDDC. This is a testament to the inclusive approach of the current leadership,” he said.

    The MOSIEND boss urged all stakeholders to support the board’s vision and warned against activities that could derail the ongoing progress in the region under President Tinubu and Ognuku.
    END

  • Dokubo seeks peaceful coexistence among Kalabari communities

    Dokubo seeks peaceful coexistence among Kalabari communities

    Da-Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dabaye Amakiri 1, has issued a heartfelt new year goodwill message to monarchs, chiefs, elites, and the masses of the Kalabari Kingdom and Kalabaris in the diaspora.

    In his new year message, he emphasised the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence in all Kalabari communities, stressing that this is crucial for development and progress.

    Dokubo-Asari, known for his tireless efforts in fighting for resource control, oppression, and environmental conservation in the Niger Delta, also urged youths to shun cultism and violent associations that harm others. Instead, he encouraged them to embrace peaceful and constructive endeavors that promote the well-being of the community.

    He went on to call upon the professional class, elites, and the rich, both in the diaspora and in Nigeria, to return home and invest in Kalabari. “Our people need to come back home to build houses here instead of buying land in other communities.

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    “I urge my fellow Kalabari brothers and sisters worldwide to set up businesses here that will boost the economy of the Kalabari Kingdom and provide jobs for our people. Our region is rich in oil and gas with opportunities in marine transportation. There are huge possibilities in agriculture and tourism development and many other avenues for viable investments.”

    He added: “As Amanyanabo of The Source, (Elem Kalabari) I recommit myself to the promotion, preservation and growth of everything that has to do with Kalabari like I have done for over 20 years.”

    As the newly installed Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dokubo-Asari is poised to build upon his legacy, fostering growth, development, and prosperity for the Kalabari kingdom.

  • 2025 holds great promises, says Dafinone, applauds Tinubu over re-opening of Warri refinery

    2025 holds great promises, says Dafinone, applauds Tinubu over re-opening of Warri refinery

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta North) has called on the Urhobos, Deltans and Nigerians to be resilient and optimistic, saying the New Year holds greater promises.

    The lawmaker in his New Year Message also applauded President Bola Tinubu for the re-opening and commencement of operations by Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, located in Ekpan, in the heart of Urhobo land.

    He tasked Nigerians to continue to support the President Tinubu led government, saying that most of the perceived harsh economic policies, particularly the removal of petroleum subsidy and the floating of the Naira, have started yielding positive results and more of such results would be recorded in 2025. 

    The statement reads: “As we step into the year 2025, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend warm New Year greetings to the Urhobo Nation, Deltans, and all Nigerians. This is a time for renewed hope, resilience, and optimism as we reflect on the past year and look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. I assure you that brighter days are coming, and together, we will make 2025 a year of tangible progress and prosperity for our people.

    “I want to specially commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold leadership and the decisive actions taken to reposition our economy. A key milestone in this journey is the commencement of operations at the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, located in Ekpan, in the heart of Urhobo land. This monumental achievement will significantly boost domestic refining capacity, create jobs, reduce the pressure on foreign exchange, and bring much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians. I urge the people of Delta Central and Nigerians at large to continue to support the Tinubu administration, as its economic policies are beginning to yield results, and more of these successes will become evident in 2025.

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    “For the Urhobo Nation, 2025 presents an opportunity to strengthen our unity, deepen our commitment to progress, and collectively build on the foundations laid in the past year. The commencement of operations at the Warri Refinery is a testament to the federal government’s focus on revitalizing critical infrastructure, and as stakeholders, we must remain steadfast in supporting initiatives that bring development to our land. Let us embrace this year with renewed energy and a commitment to working together for the betterment of the Urhobo Nation.

    “I also call on our people and Nigerians across the country to be patient and continue to stand behind the government as the current economic reforms gradually take shape. While the journey has been challenging, it is clear that the steps being taken by the administration will ensure long-term stability and sustainable growth for our economy. I am confident that with the resilience of our people and the right policies in place, 2025 will bring increased opportunities and improvements in our standard of living.

    To my constituents in Delta Central, I remain committed to providing effective representation and advocating for the development of our region. I will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to attract federal projects, create employment opportunities, and ensure that our people benefit from the dividends of democracy. Together, we will build an Urhobo Nation that reflects the true potential of the Urhobo people and serves as a beacon of progress in Nigeria.

    “As we celebrate the New Year, let us resolve to approach 2025 with renewed determination, unity, and faith in our collective ability to overcome challenges. May this year bring peace, prosperity, and fulfillment to every home in Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole. Happy New Year to you all, and may the days ahead be filled with blessings and success.”

  • Delta APC crisis: Omo-Agege supporters issue minority report

    Delta APC crisis: Omo-Agege supporters issue minority report

    • By Unue Emeka

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State remains embroiled in internal strife with the release of a Minority Report from supporters of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, opposing the majority report presented by the Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led Reconciliation Committee.

    Emerhor’s Reconciliation Committee was established by the State Working Committee (SWC) to address grievances stemming from the 2023 general elections and to unify the party for future contests.

    While the majority report gained the support of key stakeholders, the minority faction rejected its recommendations, further highlighting the sharp divisions within Delta APC.

    The “minority report” further underscored the significant and sharp division within the Delta APC, and no tendency within the party is ready to shift ground for the party’s unity.

    In fact, some allies of Omo-Agege in the last election including the two APC elected Senators (Ede Dafinone and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas) and only APC House of Representatives member, Francis Waive, have since pitched tent with the majority report.

    Political observers agree that the National APC leadership must intervene decisively. Without a common ground, Delta APC risks becoming a shadow of itself. The call for a unified, inclusive leadership model has grown louder, particularly as the “one-man show” style of Omo-Agege is widely opposed by other leaders, including Minister Festus Keyamo and elected representatives.

    The majority report recommends collegiate leadership, transparency, and structural reforms to position the party for success. However, the proposed minority report challenges the legitimacy of the committee, accusing it of being biased and lacking transparency. It claims the inclusion of non-APC members in the reconciliation process rendered its recommendations invalid.

    The minority report also accuses the committee of exacerbating divisions by proposing unconstitutional leadership structures, such as the “council of leaders.” These proposals were labeled as destabilizing and contrary to party rules, reflecting a failure to prioritize genuine reconciliation.

    Another key contention is the committee’s recommendations for party congresses. While the Majority report provides for the Collegiate leadership to manage the Congress processes to ensure no one leader highjack the party structure, the minority faction argues for the status that has always allowed a super leader to highjack the process alleging that allowing a leadership council to manage congresses undermines grassroots participation and violates party guidelines.

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    The proposed minority report also alleges internal sabotage by unnamed leaders and accuses the majority report of failing to address these issues adequately. It proposes convening the State Executive Committee to restructure the party, emphasizing grassroots engagement and accountability. This includes a comprehensive review of the 2023 elections to identify and address lapses.

    Critics of the minority report argue that Omo-Agege loyalists’ stance prioritizes personal interests over collective progress. The lack of inclusivity in decision-making during his tenure as the party’s leader has been a recurring issue, further alienating stakeholders and weakening the party’s unity.

    Delta APC’s survival hinges on finding middle ground where all leaders are treated as equal stakeholders. Political analysts warn that continuing with the status quo will lead to repeated electoral failures, allowing the PDP to maintain its dominance in Delta State.

    To secure victory in 2027, Delta APC must embrace collective leadership, prioritize reconciliation, and restructure its internal processes. The party must move beyond a single-leader narrative and embrace a united front to present a credible alternative to the PDP.

    The way forward lies in shared responsibility and inclusivity. APC today is a divided party of those with Minister Festus Keyamo and those for Sen Ovie Omo-Agege.

    By recommending that these two leaders co-chair the Collegiate leadership council, the majority report provides a practical solution to the unification of the party.

    Omo-Agege can still play a pivotal role in the party without monopolising its structure. Only by fostering unity can the APC hope to challenge the PDP effectively and meet the expectations of Deltans longing for political change. Failure to do so will leave Delta APC fragmented and irrelevant.

    • Unue Emeka writes from Asaba, Delta State
  • Chieftaincy conferment: Okobaro calls on Ughievwen indigenes to support Oborevwori’s administration

    Chieftaincy conferment: Okobaro calls on Ughievwen indigenes to support Oborevwori’s administration

    The Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, has urged residents of the kingdom to support the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta State.

    Speaking at the conferment of chieftaincy titles on 22 sons and daughters of Ughievwen Kingdom, the monarch emphasised the importance of backing a government that is making positive strides.

    The Okobaro, speaking through the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Shaire, expressed gratitude to all individuals who received chieftaincy titles during the ceremony.

    According to the Okobaro, the chieftaincy conferment is a testament to their dedication and service to our beloved kingdom.

    “This palace, the royal residence of the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, stands as a symbol of our heritage and unity.”

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    “We are honored to have HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, our esteemed king, with us today. Alongside the respected chiefs of the palace, he embodies the strength and integrity of our kingdom.”

    “Supporting the present administration in Delta State is essential to our vision of a prosperous future for Ughievwen Kingdom.”

    The monarch encouraged each of the conferred chiefs to align with the prosperous Ughievwen agenda of the Palace, as their leadership and influence will be vital in advancing the kingdom. The Okobaro looks forward to their contributions in shaping the collective goals.