THE LAND OF BAYELSA NEEDS APOLOGY,OUR LEADERS PLEASE ZIMO_Chief. Barrister Smooth

THE LAND OF BAYELSA NEEDS APOLOGY,

OUR LEADERS PLEASE ZIMO_Chief. Barrister Smooth 

The creation of Bayelsa State no doubt was the collective efforts of every Izon man, far and near. Many gave their resources and lives to see that we should have an indigenous state we can call home of every Izon man. The people danced and rejoice over the fact that their dream had been achieved. They thought freedom had come at last. They thought they had arrived safely to their promise land. Hopes were high, expectations soar. 

First we had our military Administrators who did their best but too small and we feel they could not do better because they were strangers who had no sympathy or understanding the sufferings of the people. To make their voices heard the Ijaw youths numbering thousands gathered at Kaiama to declare their sovereignty as a free Nation. Many youths who came to participate in the protest died in the course. Their wives and children are forgotten today by the present crop of politicians who think of nobody but themselves. Their blood cry from the ground asking to be appreciated and appeased and yet nobody tend to listen.

Then came Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha who became our Piller of strength and hope. He was angry at the underdevelopment and opened Yenagoa the state capital for rapid growth and development. He became the voice of the IZON man anywhere in the world and that earned him the appellation (The Governor General.)  His reign marked the beginning of the success story of the IZON Dream. 

But however his glory was cut off betrayed by his own brothers like Joseph in the Bible. He died for the Ijaw struggle that inspired my song APOLOGY. As a believer and fighter of the struggle, I saw the need for the Bayelsa land to be appeased to the spirit of late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha for future leaders to have a great sense of direction to lead the people well. To many that was a mere song to be overlooked with careless abandon. But today the land is in darkness calling our leaders to wake up to their responsibilities. Now that we have our own sons and daughters in positions, let nobody should blame the North for wickedness. Not again.

Pained I went to the studio and came with another song  titled ZIMO in which I called our leaders to cut loose the rope of slavery, poverty, tied on the lives of the people. The hunger became unbearable. The people became slaves in their own land. The people that supposed to be celebrating their prosperity and freedom today are in abject poverty and darkness. Nobody cared about us, cried late Michael Jackson. Truly nobody cares about the Bayelsa of our dream. Nobody.

They say if you want to know the sufferings of your people, you should come down to mix with them, after all, we are all brothers. I have been in Bayelsa for two weeks and what I saw concerning the people were indescribable. I could not help but to assist almost 10m, with over 20 people with the sum of 500k each, for hospital bills and poverty alleviation. 

Our political leaders, please this is not funny, ZIMO. Our Federal Ministers and Senators be your brother's keepers and ZIMO. Our Governor of Bayelsa State, this is no longer funny, move around and see the people wallowing in poverty in the dark, ZIMO. This is no time for politics, this is the bitter truth facing the state, please ZIMO. I know no big man will understand the people crying for light in their black out because they have their generators giving light every night and day. I weep when I go around the state.

Please I beg our leaders,  ZIMO!

Chief Barrister S. Smooth

Freedom is my goal!

98 Amnesty Delegates Graduates from Joemarine on Marine Engineering, as Otuaro Urges Them to be Peace Ambassadors in N'Delta

98 Amnesty Delegates Graduates from Joemarine on Marine Engineering, as Otuaro Urges Them to be Peace Ambassadors in N'Delta

Francis Tayor

Warri _____ The Presidential Amnesty Programme has successfully trained ninety eight (98) cadets/delegates for bootcamp-refresher course on marine engineering at Joemarine lnstitute of Nautical Studies and Research, warri.

The event took place on Tuesday at the Joemarine lnstitute of Nautical Studies and Research, Otomewo Community in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, attracted the presence of the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor who was ably represented by Hon. Amafini Akemotubo, His Royal Majesty, Pere Luke Kalanama Vlll, the Pere of Akugbene Mein-Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, the CEO/MD South Side lnternational Resources, Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, the National Spokesman ljaw Youth Council (lYC), Amb. Princewill Binebai, the clergy pastor Anthony Burutu amongst other critical stakeholders from the Niger Delta region.

Speaking at the close out ceremony, the administrator of the amnesty program, Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro congratulated the graduating delegates for coming out with flying color.

He said the amnesty program is an avenue for manpower and human resources development, while urging the beneficiaries to utilize the opportunity well for better future.

He appreciated the delegates for maintaining good conduct during the course at Joemarine, stressing they are the peace ambassadors of Niger Delta and one of the star faces in the program for the year 2024.

He noted that after the aviation and maritime related training, the Niger Delta women are the next in line for vocational training/empowerment.

He emphasized that by next year 2025, the office would be more focused on formal education scholarship program, thereby given room for those who intends to further their education to Degree, Masters and PHD level.

He however, charged the graduating delegates to be good ambassadors of Niger Delta in particular and Nigeria at large, adding that the world is counting on them to be a solution to the problems facing maritime sector across the globe.

In his speech, the MD/CEO Joemarine lnstitute of Nautical Studies and Research, Engr. Kenneth Akpoebi Epidei said the management had just successfully trained 98 amnesty delegates earlier deployed to the institution for Bootcamp course.

He further appreciated and thanked the amnesty administrator for finding Joemarine lnstitute worthy to handle refresher training for the amnesty delegates.

Delivering his closing remark, the Chairman of the lnstitute's Governing Council, the Pere of Akugbene Mein-Kingdom, HRM. Pere Luke Kalanama lauded the amnesty administrator for his policy of continuity.

He congratulated the graduating delegates to make good use of the opportunity, while thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dennis Otuaro to put the amnesty program in the right perspective of its establishment.

Highpoint of the ceremony was presentation of certificate to the graduating delegates of the amnesty program by the administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

This was followed by passing of vote of confidence by the beneficiaries conducted by Mr. Ebi Jackson on the administrator of the amnesty program, Dr. Dennis Otuaro for his spectacular leadership charisma in bringing back the amnesty program to the real owners in the creeks.

Meinbutus Amayanabo, HRH King Jerry Prebor Bags Global Communion Distinguished Leadership Award

Meinbutus Amayanabo, HRH King Jerry Prebor Bags Global Communion Distinguished Leadership Award

Warri _____ His Royal Highness, King Jerry Prebor, the Amayanabo of Meinbutu has been recognized for his exceptional leadership with a prestigious distinguished leadership award.

The award was presented on Sunday November 24, 2024 by Archbishop Dr. Gbolo E. Temekoga of the Global Communion of Pentecostal Bishops & CLG INC during the  2024 distinguished leadership award event held in warri, Delta State.

This honour was a demonstration to the tireless efforts and dedication of HRH Jerry Prebor to foster peace, unity and development of the urban Ijaw community's in warri over the years.

In his acceptance speech, HRH Jerry Prebor expressed gratitude to the Global Communion of Pentecostal Bishop and CLG INC for the recognition. He also thanked his family, friends, and the entire Warri urban community for their unwavering support.

HRH Jerry Prebor’s leadership has brought numerous benefits to the Warri Urban Community, including improved peace and unity among neighbours. His commitment to the well-being of his people has earned him widespread respect and admiration.

The leadership merit award is a well-deserved recognition of HRH Jerry Prebor’s outstanding contributions.

Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup Enters Round Two Today November, 25th

Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup Enters Round Two Today November, 25th

The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Football Tournament is heating up as it enters Round Two stage of ethnic representation.

Today, November 25th, Team Ika will face off against Team Isoko at the Obiaruku township stadium, while Team Ijaw will battle Team Itsekiri at the Ogbe primary school by 2:pm, today.

In the Ika Centre, Agbor United FC has qualified to take on Winsome FC from the Isoko Centre. Meanwhile, Patani Strikers, the winners from the Ijaw centre, will clash with Ogbomaru FC, the champions of the Itsekiri centre.

Chairman of the local organizing committee, Chief Ken Nwoamucha, has expressed gratitude to all teams for their cooperation, ensuring a smooth tournament. He noted that all venues were carefully selected to provide a level playing field for the teams ¹.

The tournament will continue with matches held every two days. Obiaruku township will host Team Ika, Isoko, and Ndokwa, while Ogbe primary school, Effurun, will be the venue for Team Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo.

UNMASKING IZON EGBERIBO TV: Championing Cultural Heritage with Chief Barrister S. Smooth

UNMASKING IZON EGBERIBO TV: Championing Cultural Heritage with Chief Barrister S. Smooth

Introduction

Chief Barrister S. Smooth, fondly known as The Paddle of the Niger Delta, is a towering figure in the Owigiri highlife music scene. As a multi-talented musician, he seamlessly blends traditional music, contemporary Afrobeat, highlife, Niger Delta blues, cultural dance, indigenous hip-hop, rap, and classical Ijaw melodies. His extraordinary talent, innovative rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics have made him a living legend, celebrated for his ability to inspire, unite, and uplift through music.

Early Life

Born on February 13th 1968 to Chief Pa Smooth of Enekorougha and Ma Seijobogha of Egbema, Barrister S. Smooth was destined for greatness. As a child, he first lived  with his parents and siblings at Epe Lagos state where his father Pa Smooth had served as a soldier before he was retired and finally coming home to live at Warri Waterside in 1979. From a young age, his singing talent enchanted his neighbours, while his Niger Delta environment inspired his passion for music. The struggles of his father, Chief Pa Smooth, a retired military officer and advocate for social justice, further fuelled his determination to use music as a tool for change.

Musical Career

Chief Barrister S. Smooth stands out as a self-made artist whose inspiration is rooted in divine visions and dreams. Without formal mentorship, he created songs that resonated deeply with his community, addressing themes of freedom, justice, love, and culture. His debut in 1991 with the hit songs "Young Choppers" and "Single Bede" set the stage for a remarkable career. His music continues to serve as a voice for the oppressed, making him a respected figure among all social classes.

Music as Advocacy for Freedom and Peace During the Warri crisis of 1996, Chief Barrister S. Smooth emerged as a freedom fighter, using his music to challenge oppression. Songs like "Freedom is Our Goal", "Mein Butu" and "Okerenkoko fie bagha ogbo'" became strong rallying cries for the Ijaw people, advocating for unity and justice. His activism contributed to the restoration of the Local Government Headquarters to Ogbe-Ijo, cementing his legacy as a fearless advocate for his people.

In addition, his song "Wa Mo Bo" played a pivotal role in promoting peace among the Itsekiri, Urhobo, and Ijaw communities. His music transcends ethnic boundaries, fostering unity, dialogue, and healing in the Niger Delta region.

Cultural Catalyst and Role Model

Chief Barrister S. Smooth is more than a musician; he is a cultural icon and a catalyst for transformation. Through love songs like "Emomotimi" and "Cynthia," he advocates for mutual understanding and harmony in relationships. As a mentor and leader in the music industry, he collaborates with artists across ethnic lines, nurturing talent and fostering cultural exchange.

Izon Egberibo TV: A Visionary Project

Izon Egberibo TV, founded by Chief Barrister S. Smooth, is a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of the Ijaw people. The station preserves and promotes Ijaw culture, traditions, and history, creating a space for storytelling, cultural expression, and community engagement.

Key Objectives of Izon Egberibo TV:

Amplify marginalized voices in rural communities.

Preserve Ijaw cultural heritage for future generations.

Promote unity among Ijaw communities worldwide.

Showcase Ijaw cultural values to a global audience.

Bridge linguistic variations within the Ijaw nation.

Key Partners in the Project:

The success of Izon Egberibo TV is bolstered by the involvement of influential stakeholders who share the vision of cultural preservation. These partners include:

High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo

Senior High Chief Bibopre Ajube 

Chief Kestin Pondi

Engineer Matthew Tonlagha

Preye Berezi 

High Chief Promise Lawuru

Sponsors of the Izon Egberibo TV Project

The following distinguished leaders and organizations are proud supporters of Izon Egberibo TV, contributing to its success and sustainability:

Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State

Dr. Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, MD/CEO of NDDC

Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme

Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, MD/CEO of Niger Delta Water Basin Authority

PANDEF (Pan Niger Delta Forum)

INC (Ijaw National Congress)

IYC (Ijaw Youth Council)

Their unwavering support underscores the importance of preserving the cultural identity of the Ijaw people.

Recommendations

To ensure the success of Izon Egberibo TV, the following actions are encouraged:

1. Collaboration with Local Governments: Partner with Ijaw-dominated LGAs to support the station's activities.

2. Engagement with Businesses: Ijaw business owners should advertise on the platform.

3. Educational Initiatives: Schools should organize excursions to Izon Egberibo TV for students to learn about Ijaw culture.

4. Sponsorship: Continue fostering partnerships with key sponsors to maintain the project’s momentum.

Conclusion

Cultural preservation is a sacred duty, and Chief Barrister S. Smooth has emerged as a champion of this cause. Through his music and Izon Egberibo TV, he has redefined the narrative of the Ijaw people, ensuring their stories and traditions are celebrated. As a leader, mentor, and cultural ambassador, he deserves our unwavering support and recognition.

In acknowledgment of his efforts, the Pan Izon Writers Forum (PIWF) proudly declares Izon Egberibo TV as the TV Station of the Year 2024.

Signed:

President: Gesikeme Akparakata (Bayelsa)

Vice President: Loveth Afore (Edo)

Secretary: Elum Godstime (Delta)

Publicity Secretary: Gideon Okorobia (Bayelsa)

Treasurer: Sam Amino (Rivers)

Members: Henry Donbraye (Delta), Amina Danson (Akwa Ibom)

Oil Theft: Otuaro pledges PAP support for Defence team, says increased oil production would be sustained

Oil Theft: Otuaro pledges PAP support for Defence team, says increased oil production would be sustained 

Abuja ______ The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has assured the Defence Headquarters Joint Monitoring Team that the PAP will support their mandate to curb crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

Otuaro, who stated this when the joint monitoring team led by Major General Jamil Jimoh paid him a courtesy visit at the PAP Office in Abuja, on Thursday, noted that the joint monitoring team deserved support towards reducing the menace of illegal oil bunkering, and attacks on critical oil assets.

The PAP helmsman, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Igoniko Oduma, said the Office was willing to work with the joint monitoring team.

He stressed that it was part of the mandate assigned to him by President Bola Tinubu in the government's determination to address the challenges in the region.

He expressed delight that the country's oil production output had reached 1.8 million barrels per day due to the intensified fight against crude oil thieves and pipeline vandals.

Otuaro added that he was confident the increase would be sustained.

Otuaro said, "I know that the essence of the PAP is for national and human security in the country and the region. We are going to work with you at any time. It's part of the things we can do within the mandate given to me by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"Based on that, we will collaborate with you to ensure the eradication of oil bunkering and other related activities in the Niger Delta. The country's oil production output is on the rise and has reached 1.8 million barrels per day as announced sometime last week by the NNPCL. We are confident that it will increase more than that."

He said the PAP was vigorously implementing the reintegration phase of the programme through initiatives in formal education, vocational training, and post-training empowerment of delegates, beneficiaries and women while also deepening stakeholders' engagement for sustainable peace and stability in the region.

Otuaro further told the joint monitoring team that with more funding, the programme's expanding scope would be better managed and administered in the strategic interest of national security and stability.

Earlier, the leader of the team, Major General Jamil Jimoh, had solicited the support of the PAP to enable them to do their work very well and explained that the visit was part of the team's tour of the Niger Delta to interface with stakeholders.

He applauded the PAP administrator for working hard to ensure sustainable peace and stability in the Niger Delta, stressing that Otuaro's knowledge of the region was an asset to maintaining peace and stability in the area.

Jamil said, "We have been in the Niger Delta, and we have met with some stakeholders. But we felt that it is very important that we also visit the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme that was established by Federal Government and had brought peace to the Niger Delta.

"The Administrator knows a lot about that general area. He knows the people, and what is happening there and he will guide us on some of the things we want to do. 

“We know that he has been doing a lot to make sure things are happening underground in the Niger Delta to maintain peace and stability. So we decided to meet him and his team today."