Saturday, June 15, 2024

Family Announces Burial Date for late Hon. Wilson Agediga

Family Announces Burial Date for late Hon. Wilson Agediga 


ANNOUNCEMENT: 

On behalf of the Agediga and Aruwei families of Ogulagha and Gbaramatu Kingdoms, I have the mandate of both families to formally announce the sudden demise of their son Hon. Wilson Gege Agediga,

Which sad event took place on the 2nd June 2024 at First Rank Hospital off Giwa Amu road, Warri after a brief illness. 

Service of songs will be held at his Okuisoko residence on the 25th of June while the burial service will be done on the 27th June 2024 at Sokebolou. 

The corpse will depart Miller waterside 8am enroute Sokebolou. Boats shall be available for early arrivals.

 Signed :
Amb. Shedrack Agediga

Ogbemudia Congratulates Burutu PDP Candidate Takeme for Chairman

Ogbemudia Congratulates Burutu PDP Candidate Takeme for Chairman 

Francis Tayor

Warri ____ Following his consensus adoption as the PDP Chairmanship Flagbearer in the forthcoming Burutu Local Government Council general elections, Apostle Samson Ogbemudia has congratulated Hon Chief Dr. Julius Takeme.

In a statement released on Saturday in Warri, Ogbemudia described Julius Takeme consensus adoption as a well deserved one following his humility attitude, philanthropic kind gesture to humanity and contributions in promoting the umbrella party over the years.

He emphasized that Takeme is a man of integrity and focus, hence his coming as the next Council Chairman in Burutu will attract unprecedented infrastructural as well as human capital development to the good people of the oil rich local government.

He pray God to envelope Chief Julius Takeme with wisdom and understanding to pilot the affairs of his new exalted office as the incoming Burutu Local Government Council Chairman.

Pondi to Grace IYC Spokesman's Office Unveiling on June 22, in Warri

Pondi to Grace IYC Spokesman's Office Unveiling on June 22, in Warri 

By: Ndu Samuel 


Warri _____ Member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, House of Representatives and Chairman House Committee on Environment, Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi will on Saturday 22nd of June 2024, grace the Unveiling of the ljaw Youth Council, lYC Spokesman's Office in Warri, Delta State. 

According to Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC ) Worldwide, stated that the highly revered Ijaw Youth leader will be gracing the occasion as a distinguished Guest of Honour. 

Speaking further, Princewill said a lot of dignitaries will be attending the unveiling ceremony in Warri, stressing that as the days draw closer, more dignitaries will be unveiled via the media. 

The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday 22nd of June 2024 by 10am .

The office where the event will also be taking place is located at No 1 Ejemudaro Street by Cenema Junction, Warri, Delta State.

Late Mrs Gbenekama Laid to Rest Amidst Tears in Gbaramatu kingdom, Delta State

Late Mrs Gbenekama Laid to Rest Amidst Tears in Gbaramatu kingdom, Delta State 

Warri _____ Mammoth crowd trooped into the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, precisely Azama Community in Warri South-West local government area of Delta State to lay to rest the remains of the late Amb. Mrs Blessing Oghale Gbenekama, wife of Ijaw leader, Chief God'spower Gbenekama, the fiyewei of Gbaramatu kingdom on Friday June 14.
Tears freely flew from the eyes of family members, friends, well-wishers and colleagues of late Blessing Oghale while bidding her a farewell.

Among personalities at the occasion include; Chief Kestin Pondi, MD Tantita,  Chief Ekomieyefa, alias KFT, Chief Sheriff Mulade, Coordinator CEPEJ, Dr Alfred Mulade, Registrar NMU, Chief Moses Bebenimibo, Chief George Timiyan, Chief Simeon Bebenimibo and others across Delta State attended the funeral services to bid the late wife of Chief Godspower Gbenekama in solidarity.
Late Mrs Blessing Gbenekama died at age 40 after a brief illness in Warri.

Sharing her goodwill messages, sympathizers acknowledged that she was a shining star and beacon of hope among women while she was alive.
However, the corpse of the deceased left Warri morgue at about 8:30AM and arrived her community about 11AM for lying in state. The Iying in state immediately followed by sermon, reading of her biography and thereafter interment and entertainment of guests.
The funeral services was officiated by a priest from the Anglican Church from Warri, Rev. Canon Zion Ukeje, (Supervisor) with a sermon tilted: "Where Do We Go From Here". He backed his sermon with Ecclesiastics 3 vs 1-3 and other scriptures, where it said there is time for everything under the sun. 
In the sermon, the officiating pastor dwell seriously on repentance. He emphasized that life without Christ is empty. Rev. Ukeje noted that life is about choice but the power of death and judgement belong to the ultimate God. He admonished dignitaries at the funeral to live an acceptable life for the Lord because there is no repentance at the grave (after death).

Friday, June 14, 2024

Singer Patorankin describes Timaya as his mini god in music career

Singer Patorankin describes Timaya as his mini god in music career 


Popular Nigerian Hip-hop artist who goes by the name Patoranking has expressed his gratitude once again to the Bayelsa born Nigerian dance hall king and singer, Mr. Enetimi Ondou popularlly known as Timaya as his mini god for helping him to become a world class musician.

Till today Patoranking still  believes he would have been nothing without Timaya! The singer once revealed to fans how Timaya housed and helped him get the spotlight he has now! He said this while he was on stage with Timaya. He showered lots of praises on him while reminiscing on how he helped him
Today, Patoranking who is ahead of Timaya with over 5 Million> IG followers still has great respect for his helper 🙌🏼

This is a lesson for us on this beautiful world, always be grateful to your helpers so that God will bless you more..

PAP Administrator Otuaro to Grace IYC Spokesman's Office Unveiling in Warri

PAP Administrator Otuaro to Grace IYC Spokesman's Office Unveiling in Warri 

By Ndu Samuel 

Warri ____ Administrator of the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro will on Saturday 22nd of June 2024 grace the unveiling ceremony of the Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) office in Warri, Delta State. 

Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) dropped the hint to newsmen in Warri earlier today in Warri.

According to Binebai, he said arrangements toward hosting as many as possible dignitaries is on top gear as he is giving a finishing touch to the office. 
Speaking further, Princewill maintained that unveiling of the Spokesman's office annex will add more value to council.

LG Poll: PDP presents Christy as running mate to Oromoni in Warri South-West

LG Poll: PDP presents Christy as running mate to Oromoni in Warri South-West 


Warri ____ Obeying the gender balance policy of our Dear GOVERNOR of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the People's Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South West has unveiled Christy Omamofe as their Vice Chairmanship candidate.

This announcement came during a meeting of PDP stakeholders in the Local Government on Thursday.

The party also introduced its Councillorship candidates and launched the campaign committee.

The gathering saw notable figures such as former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi from the House of Representatives, and Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon Emomotimi Guwor. 
Chief Favour Izoukumor , Chairman of PDP Warri South West, stated the importance of unity and support for all party candidates, spotlighting the achievements of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as a cornerstone of their campaign.

Chief Izoukumor expressed confidence in the leadership of Chief Sylvester Oromoni as Chairmanship candidate and Mrs. Christy Omamofe as Vice Chairmanship candidate, underlining their professional credentials and readiness for electoral success.

The event culminated in the inauguration of the Campaign Central Working Committee spearheaded by Hon. George Ekpomupolo as Chairman and Hon. Raymond Pira as Coordinator.
Others include, 
CHIEF EMMANUEL SECONDI- SECRETARY

FINANCE COMMITTEE
1. CHIEF FAVOUR IZOUKUMOR (CHAIRMAN)
2. FRANK PUKON
3. CHIEF SYLVESTER OROMONI 
4. JEFFERSON ARUBI
5. HON PIRA RAYMOND
6. EMMAN ADU
7. TOSAN TONWE

VENUE COMMITTEE-
CHIEF FRANK OMARE (CHAIRMAN)
2. HON FREEMAN FREGENE
3. APOSTLE PREYE KOREMENE
4. FRED IGERE
5. STANLEY OKIRI
6. HON. ARTHUR AKPODUBAKAYE
7. REGINA IGANGAN
8. CHIEF SYLVESTER OROMONI 
9. CHIEF JOEL OGBONA

PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
1. PASTOR AREX AREMETUBO
2. DEACON GOD’SPOWER BENEKIGHA.
3. COLLINS IGBEGBE
4. PRINCE EMMANUEL SEKÓINDI
5. TOJU ROBINSON EKENGBUDA
6: HON.  JOLOMI TUOYO
7: KEYNESS OROMONI

SECURITY COMMITTEE
CHIEF BORO OPUDU (CHAIRMAN)
S CHEF JOEL OGBONNA
3 JACKSON IYONSI
4 PERE TOM

ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE
1. GODWIN OMADOYE (CHAIRMAN)
2. JOLOMI AGBAJOH
3. PATIENCE UWANIKONNE
4. REGINA OGEGBENE
5. CHIEF ROSE TULU
6. CHRISTIANA SEIBIRIBO
7. MARGERET DUMI
8. PATIENCE GBENEKAMA
9. PETER DIO
10. EWERIKUMOR
11. MISAN AYOMIKE
12. MARVELLOUS DUODE

 MOBILIZATION COMMITTEE
1. CHIEF VERO TANGBOWEI (CHAIRMAN)
.2. CHRISTY OMAMOFE
3. HARRIMAN EMAMI
4. CHIEF ROSE DONOKOROMO
5. Austin EYINBO
6. PRINCE EMMANUEL SEKOINDI
7. ALL  PARTY COUNCILLORSHIP CANDIDATE

TRANSPORT COMMITTEE
1. HON FREEMAN FREGENE
2. EGNR. DON. DICKSON OGUGU
3. CHIEF SAMSON OYIMI
4. JOSEPH HITLER
5. PATRICK OMULA
6. ANDREW IGBAN
7. JOHNBULL EDEMA
8. SIMON DUDIEGHA

Congratulations to all...
PDP! Power to the People 

Credit: Godspower E. Benakiegha

Burutu PDP Constitutes Campaign Council Ahead LG Polls


Burutu PDP Constitutes Campaign Council Ahead LG Polls 

Francis Tayor


Warri ____ Burutu PDP has constituted its Campaign Council Chaired by the immediate past member Delta State House of Assembly Burutu South, Hon. Pullah Ekpotuayerin and Paul Kurugbe as Secretary ahead of the forthcoming July 14, 2024 Local Government Council general elections in Delta State.

Other committee set up was the Advisory Council headed by elder P.Y. Biakpara. Others in the Advisory Council include; Rt. Hon. Franc Enekorogha, Godwin Edumogiren, Richard Tuedon, Hon. Asupa Forteta, Amb. Shedrack Agediga, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme, Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, Hon. Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba, Chief. J.T. Government etc.
Meanwhile, the Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the forthcoming Burutu Local Government Council general elections in Delta State, Hon. Dr. Chief. Julius Takeme and his running mate, Hon. Mrs. Georgina Evah has expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the leaders and stakeholders of PDP in Burutu on their emergence as Flag bearers of the party.

In a statement made on Wednesday June 12, in warri during Burutu PDP stakeholders meeting held at Canewood Hotels Effurun, the duo deeply appreciated the party leadership for nominating them to fly the party to an amiable level in the next political dispensation.
Speaking during the meeting, Chief Julius Takeme thanked the party for nominating him, stressing that him and his running mate will continue to promote the unity in the Burutu PDP family.

The duo promised to run all inclusive government when elected as the next Council Chairman and Vice Chairperson of Burutu LGA, adding that the entire Burutu people would experience massive infrastructural development as well as human capital empowerment.

Late Mrs Blessing Gbenekama for burial today June 14, at Azama in Delta State


Late Mrs Blessing Gbenekama for burial today June 14, at Azama in Delta State 

_The final funeral rites of *Late Amb Mrs Blessing Oghale Gbenekama (JP)* is scheduled as follows:_

*DATE:* _Friday, June 14, 2024_

*TIME/VENUE:* _7:00am Body leaves Safe Haven Mortuary, 2 Eyiangho Street, off Aruotore Street beside Williams Square Event Centre, Okumagba Layout, Warri, Delta State to her hometown, Azama community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West LGA for funeral service and Internment._

_Signed:_

*DCN Prince Isaiah Gbenekama*
(For the Family).

*Miss Tare Gbenekama*
(For the children)

Thursday, June 13, 2024

IPF Condoles with Agediga over Sudden Demise of his Elder Brother


IPF Condoles with Agediga over Sudden Demise of his Elder Brother


The professional body of Ijaw publishers in the Niger Delta region under the aegis of Ijaw Publishers' Forum, IPF, has sympathised with the chairman of the Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board, Amb. Shedrack Agediga, over the sudden death of his brother, Hon. Wilson Gege Agediga.

The IPF, led by its President Comrade Ozobo Austin, urged the Founder of the Shedrack Agediga Foundation, SAF, and a one-time Executive Director, Planning, Research and Statistics in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, to take solace during its condolence visit on Thursday, June 13.

Recall that the late Hon. Wilson Gege Agediga passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at First Rank Hospital off Giwa Amu Road, Warri, after a brief illness.
While delivering the condolence message, Comrade Ozobo said, "We are here to sympathise with you and the entire family over the sad loss of your dear brother, Hon. Wilson Gege Agediga. 

"While we acknowledge that this is a trying time for you and the family, we however encourage you and other members of the family to be strong. We cannot question God even though we are pained but we believe God knows best," Comr. Ozobo said.

Amb. Agediga in his response thanked members of the Forum for their visit and assured them that their message is well received, noting that God gives and God takes.

Other members of the IPF present during the visit are Comrades Magbei Tare, Secretary; Kagbala Ezekiel, Public Relations Officer; Ugedi Mike, Financial Secretary; Abai Francis, Chief Researcher; Ekpegha Tamaraupreye and Demebide Anthony, members.

According to the burial notice as announced by the Agediga family, a Service of Songs ceremony will be held at his Okuisoko residence on June 25, while the burial service will hold on June 27, 2024, at Sokebolou community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Takeme, Evah Hail Burutu PDP leaders as they Emerged Flagbearers of the party

Takeme, Evah Hail Burutu PDP leaders as they Emerged Flagbearers of the party

..... As Burutu PDP constitutes campaign council ahead LG elections 

Francis Tayor


Warri ____ Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the forthcoming Burutu Local Government Council general elections in Delta State, Hon. Dr. Chief. Julius Takeme and his running mate, Hon. Mrs. Georgina Evah has expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the leaders and stakeholders of PDP in Burutu on their emergence as Flag bearers of the party.
In a statement made on Wednesday June 12, in warri during Burutu PDP stakeholders meeting held at Canewood Hotels Effurun, the duo deeply appreciated the party leadership for nominating them to fly the party to an amiable level in the next political dispensation.
Speaking during the meeting, Chief Julius Takeme thanked the party for nominating him, stressing that him and his running mate will continue to promote the unity in the Burutu PDP family.

The duo promised to run all inclusive government when elected as the next Council Chairman and Vice Chairperson of Burutu LGA, adding that the entire Burutu people would experience massive infrastructural development as well as human capital empowerment.
However, the Burutu PDP also constituted its Campaign Council Chaired by the immediate past member Delta State House of Assembly Burutu South, Hon. Pullah Ekpotuayerin and Hon. Paul Kurugbe as Secretary ahead of the coming July 14, 2024 Local Government Council general elections.

Other committee was the Advisory Council headed by elder P.Y. Biakpara. Others in the Advisory Council include; Rt. Hon. Franc Enekorogha, Godwin Edumogiren, Richard Tuedon, Hon. Asupa Forteta, Amb. Shedrack Agediga, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme, Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, Hon. Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba, Chief. J.T. Government etc.

Isoko Nation Appreciates Gov. Sheriff on Emevor - Orogun Road Phase 1 Project Completion


Isoko Nation Appreciates Gov. Sheriff on Emevor - Orogun Road Phase 1 Project Completion 

 By: Wilson Macaulay


Warri ____ His Excellency, RT Hon Sheriff Orohwedor Francis Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State, on Tuesday 11th June, 2024 made a significant entry to Emevor town, Isoko North Local Government Area in Delta State, to commission the newly constructed  Phase 1 of the Emevor-Orogun Road project. 

The project, executed by an indigenous company, Emorock Concept Limited, a subsidiary of De Wayles Group of Companies, marks a pivotal development stride in the provision of road infrastructures by the Oborevwori administration in line with the Initiatives of the MORE Agenda.
The Executive Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in his address, commended Emorock Concept Limited (Subsidiary of De Wayle Group of Companies) for  maintaining high standards in executing the works. 

He emphasized the importance and relevance of the road in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for Isoko people, Orogun in Ughelli North LGA and Delta State in general. Speaking further, the Governor hinted, "This road is not just a pathway but a vital link that will enhance connectivity, boost trade, and ensure easier access to healthcare and education for the people of Emevor, Orogun with her neighboring towns and its environs. Continuing, Governor Oborevwori stated, "Emorock Concept Limited has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to excellence, and this project stands as a testament to their capability and professionalism. 
He added, "Besides the Commissioner's monitoring efforts, I was personally here on the 8th of March and 8th of April for on the spot assessment, and was indeed impressed with the level of job done on that ocassion."

He appreciated his predecessor, former Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa who awarded the contract of the Emevor - Orogun phase 1road and used the opportunity to outline future infrastructural projects aimed at further enhancing the state's road network. He subsequently, directed the Hon Commissioner Rural Hon. Chief Charles Aniagwu to immediately scope and commence the Phase 2 of the Emevor - Orogun road with a view to awarding it out and commence execution, assuring Deltans across the three senatorial districts of his administration's dedication to ensuring that all projects are executed with the highest level of transparency and efficiency without compromising standards.
Hon Chief Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works Rural, who also spoke noted that the newly commissioned road is expected to ease transportation challenges, reduce travel time, and facilitate smoother movement of goods and services within the Isoko economic corridor and Orogun associated towns. He asserted that the construction of the Emevor - Orogun Phase 1 road aligns with Governor Oborevwori administration's broader agenda to initiate sustainable and high-quality infrastructural development across Delta State, positing  that the quality of the Emevor - Orogun phase 1 road is a clear testament to what indigenous companies like Emorock Concept Limited can do if given the opportunity. He went further to commend the community youths for the cooperation given  the contractor to ensure that there were no hitches throughout the construction period.

His Royal Highness Dr. John Holt Ologho, the Odion of Emevor, in his speech, thanked the Governor for remembering the people of Emevor by executing the Emevor - Orogun phase 1 road that has been abandoned for over 35 years back, hailing the unassailable record of Emorock Concept Limited, which delivered the project in record time.
Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko, House of Rep Member, representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon Bernard Odior, Delta State House of Assembly Member representing Isoko North, Dr. Paul Oweh, head of Emevor Political class,
The President General of Emevor Community, Comrade Teddy Edoso were other dignitories who made remarks, declaring support for the Governor to develop the State in line with the MORE AGENDA.

Engr. Oghale Agelebe, Project Director, Emorock Concept Limited who had earlier granted an interview expressed the Companies  gratitude to the Governor for the rare privilage given the Company to participate in Delta State development and also to prove that indigenous Engineering firms can do better. He went further to commend the Chairman, De Wayles Group of Companies, for exhibiting top notch Leadership in steering the project from inception through execution to completion by ensuring that the project was not starved of funds, and see to it, that specifications, which translates to quality is strictly complied with.  
The event was attended by key government functionaries, community leaders, and residents, all of whom expressed their appreciation for the completed road and the positive impact it will have on their daily lives. They include the Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Sir Monday Onyeme, The Deputy Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, RT Hon Arthur Akpowowo, The Secretary to the Delta State Government, Hon Dr  Kingsley Emu,  Hon Chief Dr Kingsley Esiso, Delta State PDP Chairman. 

The commissioning of the Emevor Orogun phase 1 Road represents a significant step forward in Delta State's infrastructural development, and Governor Oborevwori's recognition of Emorocks Concept Limited (Subsidiary of De Wayles Group of Companies) as a  benchmark for quality  projects is indeed heart warming.

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Nigerian Judges to Commence on Vacation July 23 to September 13


Nigerian Judges to Commence on Vacation July 23 to September 13


Abuja____ The Federal High Court has announced the annual vacation for its judges.

The court’s spokesperson, Catherine Christopher, said in a statement on Tuesday that the vacation commences from July 23 to September 13.

Chief Justice John Tsoho in the statement said the vacation was taking effect by the provisions of Order 46, Rule 4 (d) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019.

The CJ asserted that the vacation would help the “judges to enjoy their well-deserved rest and to prepare for the tasks and activities of the New Legal year.”
He, however, said urgent matters for litigation would hold in Abuja, Lagos and Port- Harcourt being the premier divisions of the Federal High Court, adding that Justice Emeka Nwite and Justice Peter O. Lifu would be handling urgent cases at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

According to the statement, Justice Akintayo Aluko and Justice Isaac Dipeolu would handle the cases for the Lagos Division, while Justice A. T. Mohammed and Justice P. M. Ayua, would be available for the Port-Harcourt cases.

Pereama, Izonebi & Content-Creation in Music-By Ekanpou Enewaridideke


Pereama, Izonebi & Content-Creation in Music-By Ekanpou Enewaridideke


My unapologetic years of sojourn on earth have taught me that whenever lies are gilded and deodorised as healthy debates, criticisms and treatises in the secular immensity, appropriate language must be called into being as a counter-force to reduce them to pieces beyond resurrection as creatively demanded by Ngugi wa Thiong'o in his DEVIL ON THE CROSS  - a novel in which the Marxist Wariinga is positioned to do the finishing job on Gatuiria's father and end further proliferation of the devil on the cross. For the purpose of today's journey, Wariinga's pistol in DEVIL ON THE CROSS  that violently does the finishing job has no space here; only healthy language that figuratively does Wariinga's finishing job without violence would be accommodated.

Content  in music  is what always endears the musician to the music listeners.The musician dies who does not have good content in his musical compositions. Content makes a musician a household name in the world of music listeners.No musician can be talked about rhapsodically by the music listeners without an inspiring and didactic content.With healthy exploitation of instrumentation and message, inspiring content can be created by a musician in his songs.In terms of inspiring content, King Pereama is clearly situated by his musical treatises on women, marriage and home management. King Freetown would have been no where in Ijaw music if he were a composer of songs without content.Do some people actually understand content-creation in music?
For Dr Izonebi it would have been the end of the world for him musically after the death of King Dr Robert Ebizimor but for his nourishing content in his songs. Izonebi endears himself to music listeners with his inspiring content in music geared towards revival of old traditional Ijaw songs played with percussive instruments like Opuozi.With healthy exploitation of the Opuozi drum in songs, Dr Izonebi has revived and popularised the forgotten traditional  Ijaw songs by which music listeners got connected to late Kuro-endi, Ball-ere, Birifou, Beinta and others in the dead years. Through Izonebi's content-creation drawn from instrumentation and message, the contemporary world has been connected to the the heydays of the old traditional Ijaw songs once forgotten with the death of the music gurus like Birifou and many others.

Izonebi has equally endeared himself  to this generation by creating beautiful and didactically loaded songs from contemporary events and challenges to chart a path for the world. In the harsh days of President Muhammed Buhari when hunger ruled the world tyrannically, Izonebi satirised the change mantra and told Buhari how he had pulverised Nigeria with hunger.What about the inspiring content in his 'Delta Ijaw' song where he musically empowers, persuades and energises the Ijaws to go for the Delta governorship slot in 2023? 

It is unforgettable that Izonebi creates inspiring content from contemporary events and chart a progressive path for the world, and his contents always resonate with music lovers across the world. In instrumentation and didacticism in their songs, King Pereama and Dr Izonebi  are original composers and content creators. It is still a measure of their originality that they stylistically evoke elements of King Robert Ebizimor, Professor IK. Belemu, Field Marshall  Echo Toikumo, Bestman Doupere, Agbeotu Teiyeibo and others in their songs with acknowledgements away from any charge of plagiarism.These stylistic evocations immortalise the departed musicians and foreground the compositional flexibility, fluidity and 'feletefeletetism' of Pereama and Izonebi.And  it is on record that no Ijaw musician counting from King Pereama Freetown down to this present generation can escape the charge of stylistic evocations in their songs embodying elements of King Ebizimor,  Echo, Bestman, Agbeotu, Ik. Belemu and many other old Ijaw musicians because it is a  creative stylistic embellishment-continuum passed from one musician to another either in their periods of musical infancy or musical maturity as they grow in their music careers.
All over the world music enthusiasts are wowed and captivated by the reproductive artistry and capacity of musicians displayed on stage. Sometimes musicians stirringly communicate to their fans how  deep-rooted, versatile, sophisticated and good they are on stage by reproducing the music masterpieces of fellow musicians. For dead music enthusiasts dead to the drive behind this reproductive capacity often demonstrated by Pereama Freetown, Alfred Izonebi and other musicians like Abraham Young, Kennedy Duduku, King Fezena Pius Alabeni,  Gift Ebigba Promise, Eniye Egole, Tokoni, Golipat,  Alex Kimaki,  Romeo Okoye, Kingsley Takemebo, King Allen Alabor, Ezonfade Bouy,  Smally Okpe, Best May and Omoko Ogbomudia on stage, they lazily  attribute it to lack of originality  - a meaningless originality which they smugly feel should centre solely on the released songs of the musician.

Sadly, these questionable music enthusiasts have forgotten that to reproduce movingly on stage the songs of other artistes, which shows musical versatility and dexterity, is another strategy of content-creation that resonates with the audience. What about creating jobs for people through revival of Opuozi percussionists who now have a space to join music bands and derive economic power from their percussionist talents?Is Izonebi the trail-blazer in the resurrection of the Opuozi culture in music not an inspiring content-creator in music?

Even if it  accidentally falls  'walala' into the marsh of self-repetition, it must be sounded again and again as if some persons had gone iguana  that content-creation  in music is sometimes  dictated by the music enthusiasts and listeners whose  demonstrated attitudes and thoughts signal the  musician on how to create a content that would resonate with them on stage and off the performance stage. Content-creation is not static as a phenomenon because it is sometimes determined by what instrumentally or thematically captures the fancy of the enthusiasts. So what is celebrated as an intriguing content among some people may be questioned by others who don't find that quite moving.Sometimes a notorious nonsense is celebrated as a captivating content; yet it is this notorious nonsense that endears the musician to the audience. Depending on the predispositions and predilections of the music enthusiasts, notorious nonsense could be deodorised and hailed as a good content.

There is no universally acceptable formula or   fixity in content-creation because it varies according to the  varying thoughts of the music enthusiasts. It sounds absurdist, unconventional and uncultured for anyone to say that known musicians whose inspiring contents have carved a niche for them as a connecting rod between musicians and the people, and whose songs are still the heartbeat of the people, don't have a good content. This is a defective criticism not grounded in the flexibility, fluidity and non-fixity in content-creation in music  -  one that no healthy thought should be spared for in the  music industry because content-creation in music bears resemblance to 'borders' which no longer enjoy geographical fixity as scholarly dictated by current border studies.

From whatever angle it is approached, let me tell you without equivocation  that Ijaw musicians are compositionally and instrumentally good and are worthy of commendation anytime any day even after the death of greats like King Ebizimor, Bestman, Agbeotu, Echo and others. For King Pereama and Dr Izonebi, it is the inspiring content in their songs that has endeared them to the music listeners and this inspiring content shall always remain the connecting rod between these two musicians and the enthusiastic world of music listeners. Bravo to King Pereama Freetown and Dr Alfred Izonebi as they endlessly create memorable contents through their musical compositions because the world will never be tired of listening to their songs!

BY: EKANPOU ENEWARIDIDEKE

Writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State .

Monday, June 10, 2024

Tompolo, Tantita Bagged Award of Excellence from APC Youth Wing National



Tompolo, Tantita back Award of Excellence from APC Youth Wing 


By Francis Sadhere, Warri


Warri____ The Youth Wing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed admiration and gratitude towards High Chief Dr. Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for his significant efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s crude oil and gas facilities and empowering youths, particularly in the Niger Delta region.

In a ceremony held in honor of President Bola Tinubu’s one year in office, the APC’s National Youth Wing presented awards of excellence to Tompolo, acknowledging his contributions through Tantita Security Services in protecting the nation’s oil resources from theft and vandalism.

Hon. Jamaluddeen Kabir, the APC deputy national youth leader, highlighted Tompolo’s commitment to empowering youths across Nigeria, not limited to the Ijaw nation but extending to the entire Niger Delta region. Kabir emphasized the importance of continued support for youth empowerment initiatives and expressed the desire for a sustained partnership between Tompolo and the APC’s Youth Wing at all levels.

Comrade Lawal Paff, the APC Southwest Youth Leader, commended Tompolo for his role in enhancing national security by securing pipelines, which has led to an increase in internally generated revenue.

Paff encouraged Nigerian youths to collaborate with Tompolo’s security outfit to further boost the country’s oil production and overall development.
Paff urged the youth to seize the opportunity presented by Tompolo’s initiatives and emphasized the importance of contributing to the nation’s progress.

He emphasized a shift towards a mindset of service and collaboration for the greater good of Nigeria.

The National Youth Wing of the APC, including National Officers, Zonal Officers, State Youth Leaders, and ward-level representatives, came together to recognize and honor Tompolo for his significant contributions to the nation’s security and youth empowerment efforts.

Responding, Tompolo thanked the group for the awards and urged youths to work with Mr. President, Bola Tinubu in salvaging the country.

He said, “I thank all of you very much for leaving your various places and travelling all the way to Oporoza here, It’s not an easy task. I believe you would have read in different newspapers that Tompolo is fighting illegal bunkering. Yes, the Crude Oil is the only source of survival in this country and 90 percent of our people, in one way or the other, are involved in the illegal bunkering.

“So, I admonish our people, especially the youths wing to stand firm with Mr. President and join those who are doing the right thing to salvage our country.”

EDO/ONDO: IYC Condemns Apoi killing, Calls for Justice

EDO/ONDO: IYC Condemns Apoi killing, Calls for Justice 


The Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, Western Zone, has condemned the gruesome murder of a native of Apoi clan in Ese Odo local government area of Ondo State, Mr. Toyo, allegedly by its Irele (Ikale) neighbours over a farmland ownership tussle, while it also called on the government and security agencies to ensure that justice is served.

The IYC made the pronouncement in a press statement it released on Monday, June 10, and that was signed by its zone chairman, Comrade Nicholas Igarama; Secretary, Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq., and Information Officer, Comrade Tare Magbei.

Part of the statement reads: "The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone condemns in strong term the heinous act of annihilating one of our own, Mr. O. Toyo by their Irele (Ikale) neighbours over a farmland ownership tussle.

"Mr. O. Toyo was ambushed and killed while working on his farm in an unprintable manner. Until his murder, Mr. O. Toyo was a peace loving man from Igbobini Town in Apoi Clan of the Western Zone.

"The callous act of taking the life of an Ijaw man is unacceptable to us as Council and ethnic nationality. The zone is pained, to avoid taking laws into our hands which would amount to break down of law and order.

"We therefore call on Ondo State government and all relevant security formations to fish out the assailants, for justice to be served so as to prevent any reprisal attacks. An injury to an Ijaw man anywhere is injury to Ijaw man everywhere," it added.

The Western Zone youth body also called on Ijaws in Okomu, Ovia South-West local government area of Edo State, to maintain law and order as peaceful people while security agencies should investigate the true state of the situation as well as restore normalcy.

"We also use this medium to call for calm and peace in Okomu over the reported breakdown of law and order in the community caused by suspected hoodlums.

"Furthermore, we call on security authorities to investigate and unravel the true state of things and seek ways to restore law and orderliness in Okomu.

"Ijaws are peaceful people. And by this we call on our brothers across the zone to always maintain peace and to not be found wanting against the law," it appealed.

IPF Rejoices with Dr. Paul Bebenimibo on Birth Anniversary


IPF Rejoices with Dr. Paul Bebenimibo on Birth Anniversary 


The Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), under the dynamic leadership of Comrade Austin Ozobo, warmly congratulates Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, the media secretary/Consultant to High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo on his birthday, recognizing him as a shining example of the Ijaw emancipation struggle.

The IPF praised Bebenimibo's achievements, which have brought pride to the Ijaw nation, and acknowledges his exceptional mediation skills and dedication to building a better society for Niger Delta region.

The statement reads, "Dr Paul's tireless efforts to build a more harmonious and equitable society for Ijaw nation/Niger Delta have not gone unnoticed, and his dedication to the betterment of humanity is truly commendable.
IPF joined his family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating his life and achievements he marked his birthday.  

"The IPF is honored to associate with such an outstanding individual and wishes him a joyous birthday celebration.

"We pray that God blesses him with continued strength, wisdom, and protection, enabling him to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those around him",the statement added.