The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • 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.

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    “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.

  • Taiga, UPU Ireland donate relief materials to Okuama IDP camp

    Taiga, UPU Ireland donate relief materials to Okuama IDP camp

    As support continues to flow the way of ravaged Okuama community in Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom of Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, the immediate past President General of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Olorogun Moses Taiga and UPU Ireland have presented relief materials worth millions to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp.

    The donors said the gesture was to support efforts of the Delta State Government in bringing succour to the IDPs and the entire Okuama community in their difficult moments.

    Okuama indigenes have been homeless since March 2024 after soldiers of the Nigerian military carried out a reprisal attack on the community following the gruesome murder of 17 military personnel by unknown gunmen around the community.

    The military during the attack destroyed every building, including hospital, schools and other private buildings in the once-bubbling agrarian community leaving thousands of residents homeless.

    Following the incident, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori established an IDP camp to temporarily house the displaced Okuama residents pending the rebuilding of the town.

    Olorogun Taiga and UPU Ireland made the donations at two separate ceremonies on Friday at the IDP Camp in Ewu town in Ughelli South LGA.

    Presenting the food items including a live cow, bags of rice and others to the chairman and officials of the IDP Management Committee, Olorogun Taiga commended Governor Oborevwori and private individuals for providing support to the people of Okuama.

    The Urhobo leader, who was represented by his Personal Assistant, Chief Kenneth Young, said he stands in solidarity with the people of Okuama community in this difficult period of their lives.

    He commended efforts of Urhobo traditional rulers council, UPU, NGOs and other individuals for providing support for the people of Okuama community.

    Olorogun Taiga said: “First, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, for his decisive and compassionate leadership in establishing this humanitarian camp here in Ewu Town.

    ” In the darkest hours, when the people of Okuama were in desperate need of refuge, your swift action provided them with a haven, restoring hope amidst their despair. We are also encouraged by the news that the State Government has begun the rebuilding of Okuama, starting with the construction of a health centre and a classroom block. Your Excellency, for this and more, we are deeply grateful.

    “Indeed, our people are deeply rooted in their ancestral lands, not in camps. It is my fervent hope, bolstered by the assured and practical commitment of His Excellency, the Governor that our Okuama brethren will soon return to their homes, where they belong.

    “I also want to acknowledge the Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo, the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers,  Your Majesties, your unwavering solidarity with the people of Okuama is a powerful testament to our unity as Urhobos. Your continued support underscores the truth that when one of us is in pain, we all feel it. Ejuwe,  we thank you all for standing by our people during this challenging time.”

    The billionaire businessman further commended the Chairman of the IDP Management Committee, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo and his team for the excellent job they are doing at the Camp.

    “However, the road to recovery is still long, and we urge everyone to continue giving and supporting until our people can return home and rebuild their lives.To the resilient people of Okuama, your strength and courage in the face of such adversity are truly inspiring. You have endured so much, but please know that you are not alone. 

    “We stand with you, and we will continue to support you until you can return to your ancestral homeland.I must also extend a special thank you to the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons Management Committee, led so capably by Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, former Editor of The Guardian newspaper, and the officials of this camp. The efforts made towards the well-being of the displaced are greatly appreciated. Your work reflects the highest ideals of patriotism and compassion.

    Read Also: First Lady Tinubu hails education as key to Africa’s development

    “Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the media for their crucial role in highlighting the Okuama situation. Your coverage has been instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of the Okuama people and in rallying much-needed support. As we look ahead, let us all hold onto hope that the people of Okuama will soon return to their ancestral homes, rebuild their community, and restore their lives to normalcy”, Olorogun Taiga added.

    The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Ireland Branch, also donated relief materials to the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp for the feeding of the displaced persons.

    Among the items donated by the UPU Ireland include bags of rice, bags of beans, cartons of fish, gallons of groundnut and red oil, bags of garri and 50 tubers of yam.

    President of UPU Ireland, Chief Richard Iyede, Ph.D, told the camp officials and the IDPs that Urhobos in Ireland are greatly pained by the plight of Okuama people and had decided to donate the food items to help alleviate their sufferings.

    Represented by Mr. Henry Obus, Chief Iyede said “these items are from UPU Ireland. We came together to donate these relief materials to alleviate the suffering of Okuama people. He asked me to tell you that Urhobos in Ireland are solidly with you. We’ll continue to support you.”

    Receiving the relief materials, the Chairman of the IDP Management Committee, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, flanked by other officials of the camp, thanked Olorogun Moses Taiga and the Chief Richard Iyede-led UPU Ireland for their donations to the Camp.

    Ogbodo, a former Editor of the Guardian Newspaper, noted that “The Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee wishes to sincerely thank and appreciate our father and leader, Olorogun Moses Taiga, for this generous donation. We are also grateful to the UPU Ireland under the leadership of Chief Richard Iyede for sending food items all the way from Ireland. This is very commendable by our brothers and sisters in Ireland.

    “As I have always said, the IDP Camp is one of the steps towards resettling Okuama people. The second step is the restoration of the community and the resettling of the IDPs in their ancestral homeland. This is currently on course. 

    “The Delta State government is taking the right step in plight of our people. I commend Governor Oborevwori for his proactive support to the people of Okuama.”

  • USC appeals to Gov Oborevwori to expedite action in rebuilding and resettling Okuama

    USC appeals to Gov Oborevwori to expedite action in rebuilding and resettling Okuama

    The leadership of the Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria, Lagos, has appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to expedite action in fulfilling its promise of rebuilding and resettling Okuama people to their ancestral land.

    The President of Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria, Lagos, Chief Wilson Okpubigho, appealed on Saturday when the representative of the Club visited the Internally Displaced Persons Camp in Ewu-Urhob to donate relief materials to ameliorate the pains of the people who were sacked by the Nigerian military over the unfortunate incident that happened around the community.

    Chief Okpubigho, who was accompanied by Chief Clement Awhana and others to Okuama IDP Camp, commended the Delta State Government for setting up the camp to serve as a stop-gap measure while working out permanent solutions to the plight of the Okuama people.

    He said the Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria, Lagos (USC) was pained by the sad incidence of the killing of soldiers and the disproportional use of force by the military in their quest for revenge on their slain colleagues.

    According to him: “We felt your pains since the incident happened, and we had plans to reach you people; we were also following up with the Delta State Government on steps to rehabilitate and resettle the Okuama people to go back to their ancestral home.

    “Delta State Government has promised that it will rebuild and resettle Okuama people, but you know that government bureaucratic protocols would take time before that can happen to enable Okuama people to go home.

    “So, what we are doing today as part of USC social responsibility, we pulled resources together to get these items to ensure that our people are taken care of while they remained in the Camp, while we continue to appeal to the Delta State Government to fulfil their promises to the people of Okuama so that they can go back to their ancestral home.

    “Urhobo Social Club of Nigeria, Lagos, wants to encourage the Delta State Government to act fast in rebuilding Okuma. I am sure that with the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori that has a human face, it would not be too long before Okuama people will go back home.

    Read Also: Why we are supporting Tinubu’s govt, by Southeast youth leaders

    “As you all know, the Urhobo Social Club doesn’t shy away from anything that concerns the Urhobo Nation. So, we will not relent in our efforts until we see that Okuama people are resettled in their place.”

    Receiving the items, which include a big cow, 20 bags of 50kg rice and 10 bags of 50kg garri, the Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, applauded the donation and thanked the USC Club for the gesture.

    Ogbodo also appealed to other good-spirited Urhobos, Deltans and groups to show concern about the plight of the Okuama people, “since the inmates have to be alive and healthy before returning to their homes permanently.”

    He added that while the government works out a permanent solution to the pains of the Okuama people, the welfare of those in the camp, particularly women and children, must not be compromised, considering the trauma the people have gone through.

    “I want to appeal to other good-spirited Urhobos to come to the aid of the Okuama people; the journey has not finished; this is just a stopgap before a more permanent solution, which is rebuilding and resettling Okuama people to their ancestral homeland, so we solicit for more assistance.”

  • Igbuya salutes Ibori at 66

    Igbuya salutes Ibori at 66

    Delta State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Monday Igbuya has felicitated with former Governor James Onanefe Ibori on his 66th birthday anniversary.

    Igbuya, a former Delta Speaker, in a statement while celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of Ibori at 66, noted the Niger Delta leader has touched many lives with his compassionate disposition to life. 

    He noted that Ibori laid the groundwork upon which the infrastructural and economic development of Delta State is anchored by successive administrations in the state.

    The statement reads: “It is with great honour and heartfelt joy that I extend my warmest congratulations to Chief James Onanefe Ibori, an eminent political leader in Delta State and a cherished son of the Urhobo nation, on the occasion of his 66th birthday anniversary.

    “Today, we celebrate not only his remarkable journey through life but also the profound impact he has had on our state and its people. As a former Governor of Delta State, Chief Ibori’s legacy continues to inspire and guide the leaders of today and tomorrow.

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    “During his tenure as Governor from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007, Chief Ibori demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision. His administration was marked by a commitment to infrastructure development, education, and economic empowerment.

     “Under his guidance, Delta State witnessed unprecedented growth and development, setting a standard for governance that has become a benchmark for successive administrations. His dedication to improving the lives of Deltans is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service.

    “Chief Ibori’s tenure as Governor was a period of transformation for Delta State, characterized by strategic investments in key sectors that catalyzed progress and enhanced the quality of life for our people. His visionary policies laid the groundwork for infrastructural development, improved healthcare, and educational advancements, all of which have had lasting positive effects on our state.

    “As we celebrate his contributions, we are reminded of the importance of visionary leadership in fostering sustainable development.

    “Beyond his achievements in governance, Chief Ibori has remained a pivotal figure in the socio-political landscape of Delta State and Nigeria as a whole. His advocacy for the rights and welfare of the Urhobo people, as well as his efforts in promoting peace and unity among diverse ethnic groups, have earned him the admiration and respect of many. His influence extends beyond the borders of Delta State, reflecting his dedication to national development and unity.

    “Today, as we honour Chief Ibori on his 66th birthday, we acknowledge his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he has left on our state and nation. His journey serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of leaders, emphasizing the importance of resilience, dedication, and a genuine desire to uplift the lives of others. Chief Ibori’s story is a testament to the transformative power of leadership driven by vision and compassion.

    “As we celebrate this significant milestone in Chief Ibori’s life, we also look to the future with optimism and hope. It is my sincere wish that this new chapter of his life brings him continued success, good health, and happiness. May he continue to find fulfilment in his endeavours and inspire others with his commitment to the betterment of society.

    “On behalf of my family and the good people of Sapele, I extend our warmest wishes to Chief James Onanefe Ibori on his 66th birthday. We look forward to many more years of his positive influence and contributions to our beloved Delta State and Nigeria.”

  • CSR: Eleme King applauds Jada for commitment to supporting host communities

    CSR: Eleme King applauds Jada for commitment to supporting host communities

    In an effort to strengthen the relationship with its host communities, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Bamanga Usman Jada, led his management team on a familiarization visit to the King of Eleme Kingdom, HRM King Philip Osaro Obele, Oneh eh XI, at his palace in Eleme, Rivers State on Thursday, July 25.

    During his visit, Jada emphasized the importance of respecting traditional institutions as part of his strategy to foster mutually beneficial relationships between OGFZA and its host communities. He remarked, “I consider it essential to pay homage to the traditional leadership of Eleme as part of my familiarization tour of host communities. This respect will enhance the mutual benefits for both OGFZA and the communities we serve.”

    Jada expressed his appreciation for the warm reception he received and praised HRM Obele for his extensive knowledge, experience, and versatility. He highlighted that such attributes are invaluable for the development of both the kingdom and the organizations operating within Eleme.

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    The OGFZA CEO committed to continually seeking the support and collaboration of the community to promote peace and security.

    He assured that the Authority would strive to contribute to the growth and development of the host communities to the best of its capacity.

    In response, HRM Obele lauded Jada for honoring the traditional institution and extended his blessings.

    He congratulated Jada on his appointment by the Federal Government of Nigeria and expressed confidence that Jada’s leadership would drive significant development for OGFZA, its host communities, and Nigeria as a whole.

    HRM Obele acknowledged Eleme’s long history of hosting major multinational companies since 1896 and underscored the role of such organizations in societal development.

    “Eleme has been welcoming multinational companies since as far back as 1896, and we value the presence of these organizations, including OGFZA. Our kingdom remains peaceful and collaborates effectively with these entities,” Obele stated. He also expressed Eleme’s eagerness to attract more investments.

    Elaborating on the administrative structure of Eleme, HRM Obele outlined that the kingdom comprises ten major clans: Ogale, Agbonchia, Aleto, Alesa, Alode, Ebubu, Akpajo, Eteo, Ekporo, and Onne. These clans host national and multinational companies, including OGFZA, the NOTORE industrial hub, Indorama Petrochemical, and the Port Harcourt Refinery.

    He urged Jada to use his influence to advocate for the rehabilitation of the East-West Road, a crucial gateway to the free zone.

    “I would like to emphasize the importance of utilizing Jada’s influence to ensure the repair of the East-West Road, which is vital for accessing the free zone

  • NDYM: Why we refused to join hunger protest against Tinubu’s govt

    NDYM: Why we refused to join hunger protest against Tinubu’s govt

    The Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM) has explained why youths of the region shunned the nationwide hunger protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    The group said Tinubu has impacted positively on the nine states of the region through various programmes that have brought development and economic empowerment to youths of the area.

    The NDYM stated this on Friday, August 2, in a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Ekene Major Frank, and made available to the Nation in Uyo.

    According to Frank, Tinubu has a harmonious relationship with the youths of the region as demonstrated in the recent Ethnic Nationalities Youth Conference organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

    The statement reads in parts: “I, on behalf of the National Executive Council NEC of The Niger Delta Youth Movement appreciate the youth of the Niger Delta Region for refusing to join the protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “While not feigning ignorance on the economic challenges in Nigeria, we have seen verifiable indices of commitment towards reducing these challenges in the short term and gradual revamping of our economy in the long run.

    “There are also strong and concrete demonstrations of good governance within the 9 states of our region through deliberate programmes that are touching the citizens in the rural areas.

    Read Also: VIDEO: Protesters scramble for sausage rolls, water at Ojota

    “I must commend the synergy demonstrated by federal agencies (MDAs) and state governments in our region.

    “His harmonious relationship with the youths of the region came to the fore at the recent Ethnic Nationalities Youth Conference organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC”.

    He noted that the Tinubu administration has provided political inclusion for the people of the region as can be seen in the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President.

    “It is on record that after about 45 years the south south has now produced a Senate President.

    “Under the administration of President Tinubu, the NDDC management has not been fragmented.

    “Under President Tinubu we have a down-to-earth Amnesty Coordinator.

    “Under President Tinubu, the Southeast Development Commission was signed into law – something that was supposed to be done immediately after the Nigerian civil war.

    “Niger Deltans are aware that President Tinubu met a comatose economy and we are giving him the benefit of the doubt that within three years in the saddle, we shall be singing a different song”, he said.

    The NDYM President while thanking the Senate President and the Samuel Ogbuku-led management of the NDDC, reminded the President about the holistic youth empowerment at the just concluded Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Conference.

    “We urge that action should be expedited. This period should also be a wake-up call for all public officeholders to always report progress in the area of human capital development.

    “I thank all members of NDYM at the state, local government, and ward levels as well as leaders of other ethnic nationalities in the region for refusing to join the protest”, he said.

  • Akpabio didn’t say ‘he would eat while Nigerian youths protest – Okolugbo

    Akpabio didn’t say ‘he would eat while Nigerian youths protest – Okolugbo

    Consultant Communications and Strategy office of the Senate President Sir Kenny Okolugbo has faulted media reports Senate President Godswill Akpabio said that “he would be eating while protesters are protesting”.

    In a statement, Okolugbo noted that Akpabio never said “he and others will be EATING while the protesters will be PROTESTING”.

    He described the report as uncharitable, saying that its motive was to bring Akpabio in conflict with the Nigerian masses. 

    Explaining further, Okolugbo stated: “He was only quoting the MD of the NDDC that said the Niger Delta Youths have never had it so good with himself and the Amnesty boss on the saddle that it was a government of the Youths who will not be interested in regime change rather will own the GOVERNMENT and will not protest but rather be eating. 

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    “The import of his visit was a declaration that the nine states of the Niger Delta will not be involved in any protest being the most senior government official from that region he feels their pain and that there is hunger in the land. This event was covered by a national television live.

    “Speaking at the NDDC sponsored youth stakeholders summit in Port harcourt today 30th July 2024 he reiterated that protest almost led to Anarchy in Kenya and the negative effects is still reverberating. He said while the degradation in the Niger Delta due to oil exploration and exploitation persist there have been no protest. 

    “The fact that the government is doing so much to address the situation at hand like the minimum wage bill, passing into law and signing by the President of the Northwest Development Commission, the Southeast Development Commission recently. 

    “He launched the immediate payment of 10,000.00 youths to earn instantly N50,000.00 per month, as a way of ameliorating the pains and hardship being experienced but like the pregnant woman that takes nine months to deliver the pains that would accompany the birth of the child is also unbearable. 

    “The people of the Niger Delta have been urged to exercise patience with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That one year is not enough to judge the performance of the administration.

    “According to Kenny Okolugbo Consultant Communications and Strategy Office of the Senate President the youths where filled with so much joy and excitement and passed a voice vote of no protest and confidence on the Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The empowerment scheme is for those not gainfully employed and it was reiterated that it will be devoid of politics and strictly for the nine states of the Niger Delta all the local government areas and wards”.

  • Niger Delta ex-agitators pull out of proposed protest, say promoters plotting anarchy

    Niger Delta ex-agitators pull out of proposed protest, say promoters plotting anarchy

    Hundreds of ex-agitators in the Niger Delta have rescinded their initial decision to partake in the proposed hardship protest, saying promoters of the event have unconstitutional motives.

    The ex-agitators, who rose from an emergency meeting in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, July 31, resolved to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu, insisting that with more time the President would resolve all the problems afflicting the country.

    The position to abstain from any form of protest was endorsed by ex-militant leaders in the Niger Delta region, national leaders of concern Niger Delta Ex-Agitators, National leaders Niger Delta Movement for Good Governance, ex-freedom fighters of the Niger Delta region, Coalition of Niger Delta Students and Coalition of Aggrieved Niger Delta Youths.

    Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders at the meeting, the National Secretary of First Phase Ex-agitators, Gen. Nature Kieghe, said though protest is the right of the people, any such event with the motive of destabilising the country to bring about anarchy should be resisted by the citizens.

    Kieghe said having gone through the demands of the promoters, the ex-agitators decided to pull out of it in the interest of peace and development of the region and the country.

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    He particularly condemned the demand for change of government by the promoters saying it revealed that the entire objective was not to demand food governance but to violently try to take over power.

    He said: “In a democracy that we practise, there is no room for anarchy; the only way the government can be changed is through an election. When one election cycle closes and you fail to actualise your political ambition, you need to wait for another election cycle to try again.

    “Therefore, the election remains the only constitutionally accepted means of replacing any government, it is not by protest. As ex-agitators, we won’t join a protest already designed to cause violence.

    “We still have confidence in the capacity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reposition this country. He is barely one year in office and we have resolved to give him more time to allow the gains of his policies and programmes to permeate the nooks and crannies of this country.

    “But if after his tenure and we fail to see significant progress, then we will return to take another decision ahead of the 2027 election.

    “We make bold to declare that the subsisting leadership cannot be changed unless there is an election. What they are trying to achieve is mutiny, a coup and it has no place in a democracy.

    “The organisers have wrong motives and we can’t identify with them. The government was elected and it cannot be removed through protest. We already have many crises on our hands and we cannot allow for any breakdown of law and order in our region”.

  • Dafinone empowers over 2,500 constituents to cushion economic hardship

    Dafinone empowers over 2,500 constituents to cushion economic hardship

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has brought succour to over 2500 constituents through the distribution of empowerment items, including grinding machines, generators, sewing machines, make-up kit, food items and other empowerment tools.

    The lawmaker, who handed over the items to beneficiaries at his

    company premises in Amukpe, Delta State, urged Nigerians to exercise patience, assuring them that the government is cognizant of the prevailing economic challenges.

    Dafinone acknowledged the biting economic conditions, particularly affecting the vulnerable. “The economy has not been kind to Nigerians, especially those at the lower rung of the ladder,” he said. “We are aware of the hunger in the land and have deemed it necessary to support the less privileged.”

    Justifying the government’s policies amidst criticisms, the Senator stated: “The increase in fuel prices, dollar exchange rates, and food costs are outcomes of policies designed to strengthen the economy. It’s like taking a bitter pill; it’s unpleasant now, but it’s for the long-term benefit. The government is committed to ameliorating the pains associated with these measures.”

    Addressing the recent protests, Dafinone emphasised that the government understands the message being conveyed. “The protests are a reflection of the people’s hardship,” he said. “We are taking steps to alleviate these challenges. This empowerment program is a testament to our commitment.

    “The APC government is responsive to people. The increase is designed to strengthen the economy and things will get better. The decision of the President is for us to adjust for the economy to take off.”

    He added: “This is the first phase of our empowerment initiative. We plan to reach more people in subsequent programs. We understand that there might be some disparities in the distribution process, but we assure you that we are working to ensure that the most deserving benefit.”

    The Senator commended President Tinubu for his bold decisions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as a long-overdue step. “The President is aware of the people’s suffering and is implementing palliatives to cushion the effects,” he added.

    Mrs. Obakpolor Vic, the woman leader of the Dafinone Foundation and Dafinone Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the empowerment programme. “Working with Senator Dafinone has been a seamless experience,” she said.

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    A beneficiary, Barrister Innocent Ededegba from Ughelli South, lauded the Senator for the initiative. “This gesture is a huge relief to our people, especially in these challenging times,” he said.

    Olorogun Adelabu Bodjor, Chief of Staff to Senator Dafinone, urged beneficiaries to make optimal use of the items. “These items are meant to empower you financially,” he said. “We expect you to utilize them wisely.”

    Senator Dafinone who has been in the business of empowering his people for the past 18year gave out empowerment/palliatives to those who deserve it the most as beneficiaries were selected across the eight Local Governments.

    The palliative items are 65 Grinding machine, 30 Sewing Machine (Butterfly- Manual), 40 Vulcanizing Machine (DS 200 Tiger), 40 Welding Machine (Maxmech), 60 Industrial Gas Burner (Local), 20 Water pumping machine (SUMEC), 40 Car Washing Machine (Power sprayer), 60 Local Industrial Oven (Local), 60 Three-Legged Pot and Fryer, 40 Generator – (Shineray Generator 2.5KVA), 8 freezer – hisence 142 Litres Chest, 32 Makeup box set with Ring light (14 inches Ring light with USB cable and Tripod), 24 Hair Washing Basin (Plastic)- Fiber Washing Hair Basin, 24 Hair dryer, 1200 Big Bull -25KG Bags of Rice, and 1200 palm oil.