Ijaw group calls on IGP, DSS to arrest sponsors of campaign of calumny against Otuaro, Tompolo, Pondi in US, UK

The Ijaw People's Development Initiative (IPDI) has asked the Inspector General of Police and the director of the State Security Service, DSS to take immediate action against individuals sponsoring mischievous protests in the United States and the United Kingdom to allegedly spread unfounded allegations against the administrator of the presidential Amnesty (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and Chief Engr Kestin Pondi, MD Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

The group, in a statement by its national president Comrade Ozobo Austin said disgruntled individuals who are eyeing the seat of the presidential Amnesty administrator and potential oil thieves who were responsible for destruction of oil pipelines are spreading falsehood against Dr Otuaro, Tompolo and Kestin Pondi.

The IPDI expressed concerns over the negative impact these false claims could have on the reputation and integrity of the involved individuals and the wider Niger Delta region if not timely checked. They emphasised the need for a thorough investigation to identify those responsible for disseminating these baseless allegations and to ensure that appropriate legal measures are taken against them.

The group emphasised the importance of protecting public figures such as Dr Otuaro, Tompolo and Kestin Pondi from detrimental falsehoods that can undermine their leadership and cause unwarranted division within the Niger Delta region. 

Ozobo said IPDI remained committed to upholding the truth and advocating for justice in the face of fabricated narratives against Ijaw people and Niger Delta.

IPDI highlighted that Dr Dennis Otuaro has done well as administrator of the presidential Amnesty program in just one year in office, adding that every well-meaning leader, stakeholder and youth should give him total support to do more for the Niger Delta and ex-agitators.

Ozobo said Tompolo and Kestin Pondi are great leaders that have empowered thousands of youths, stakeholders and women, and that they need to be appreciated for their good leaderships.

They urged president Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ignore falsehood peddled against the great men, adding that conquered oil thieves and those who lost out for the race for the administrator of the presidential Amnesty program are spreading falsehood against Dr Otuaro Tompolo and Pondi.

The group said Dr Otuaro's appointment has greatly contributed to the current peace enjoyed by his (Tinubu) administration, noting that Dr Otuaro did well to camp tension in the Niger Delta especially during the #end bad governance protests and in the face of the ongoing provocation regarding the rivers political crisis.

According to IPDI, Otuaro's appointment as PAP administrator was a square peg in a square hole, and was celebrated by all in Niger Delta, citing that he has kept his promises and implementing great reforms in the amnesty programme.

Ozobo further stressed that Tompolo and Engr Kestin Pondi has helped to restore the once bastardised Niger Delta environment, stopped once prevalence oil thieves menace and boost the country's oil production to over two million (2m) barrels per day.

IPDI urged the Inspector General of Police and director of DSS to swing into action without a further delay in bringing to justice those peddling unfounded allegations against Dr Otuaro, Tompolo and Kestin Pondi to show deterrent to others.

Just-ln: Tension in Rivers as N-Delta youths write Tinubu, give 7-day ultimatum to shut down oil production

Palpable tension has enveloped Rivers State as youth sociopolitical groups, under the auspices of the Niger Delta Youth Council (NDYC), threaten to shutdown oil production across the region, over the raging political impasse in Rivers.

Already, the youth groups have issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu demanding, among others, the immediate restoration of Rivers State statutory revenue allocation, end every impeachment plot against the Rivers State Governor, Similaye Fubara as well as ensure public retraction of anti-Ijaw remarks purportedly attributed to the former Governor of the State, Hon. Nyesom Wike.

"Failure to comply could lead to a total shutdown of oil production across the region, a move that would have dire consequences for Nigeria’s already fragile economy", the group stated in an open letter to the President signed by Comrade Bene Youkore Mamamu, the NDYC President.

In the open letter, copies of which were made available to journalists in Warri, Delta State on Saturday, the NDYC noted with concern that former Governor Wike's comments in which he was quoted as describing the Ijaws as minority group of the minorities "is provocative and inflammatory, and a declaration of economic and political War". 

The open letter partly reads, "We are ready to shock the world in seven days.

"We are prepared to take decisive action if our demands are not met within the seven days. 

"The oil that fuels this nation flows from our land, the fourth largest and most populated ethnic group in Nigeria and we will not allow Wike, who is suspected of being used by the Presidency to sabotage our region and undermine Ijaw history.

"We are angry that Tinubu's government has empowered Wike and the Judiciary to undermine Ijaws and the Niger-Delta region, with regular threats to impeach Governor Fubara, seize the States allocation, insult late Pa Edwin Clark and rewrite the history of Ijaw nation from fourth largest ethnic groups to minority".

Continuing, the NDYC urged its members to "mobilise to disrupt oil production across the Niger Delta region at the expiration of the seven days ultimatum", the statement added.

PAP: Ijaw Publishers' Forum Hails Dr. Dennis Otuaro for Transformative Reforms in one year in office

 

The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), on the successful service delivery and transformative reforms he has implemented during his first year in office. 

In a statement issued by IPF's national president, Comrade Ozobo Austin, the forum commended Dr. Otuaro for reinstating vital programs that had previously been suspended, including foreign scholarships, marine training initiatives, vocational training, and the empowerment scheme.

Dr. Otuaro's administration has been marked by a series of extensive and inclusive stakeholder meetings that have actively involved ex-agitators, community leaders, local stakeholders, women, and traditional rulers from the Niger Delta region. This collaborative approach has fostered a greater sense of community involvement and support for the amnesty initiative.

He deployed Over 2000 students for scholarships in various universities in Nigeria and abroad. "About 40 ex-agitators were deployed for Aero-Maintenance training in Lagos. Four commercial pilots trained in South Africa.

Over 100 ex-agitators trained in the maritime sector", the group added.

"We are proud of the remarkable achievements made by Dr. Otuaro in just one year," said Comrade Austin. "His efforts to restore and enhance critical programs demonstrate a commitment to uplifting the youth and empowering the people of the Niger Delta. We believe that these initiatives will have a profound and lasting impact on our ex-agitators and communities."

The IPF emphasised the importance of continued support from youth, leaders, and stakeholders across the Niger Delta region for Dr. Otuaro's agenda. "We urge all parties to rally behind him to ensure the successful delivery of his programs and the overall progress of our region," the statement read.

Meantime, the endorsement from the Ijaw Publishers' Forum underscores the growing recognition of Dr. Otuaro's leadership and vision for a revitalized and empowered Niger Delta, as he works towards sustainable development and peace in the area.

However, the IPF remained optimistic that with collaboration and support, the transformative initiatives set in motion by Dr. Otuaro will continue to flourish, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for all residents of the Niger Delta.

Ekanpou Condoles Wife Over Death of Mother ln-law, Mrs. Margaret Ekotoro

Words of Strength for the Ekotoro and Okumbiri Families on the departure of Mrs Margaret Ekotoro

Mrs Margaret Ekotoro, a virtuous, peace-loving, kind-hearted, compassionate, caring, god-fearing, forgiving, positively charged woman with a golden heart that does not have an archive of enemies but an archive of loved ones, devoted member of Christ Divine and Gospel Mission church (CDGM) who does not miss any church convention held anywhere in Nigeria, a professional tailor  without formal apprenticeship to anyone, who specialises in the sewing of bespoke church garments, is dead. She died at twelve midnight on the 14 of March 2025 in Warri without any complications. 

Mrs  Margaret Ekotoro simply told her children after drinking a glass of water that she was ready to journey back to the underworld. She began to lose consciousness after telling her children she was ready to sail home. Confronted with her creeping consciousness, they took her to a near hospital reachable within four minutes. By the time they reached the hospital she was already dead on the way as confirmed by the doctor at the hospital. She died at the age of 99 as a professional tailor yet to retire from her trade she loved with passion. She simply died without the complication of illness. 

There are echoes of clairvoyance here. She was a great devotee of God who knew she was about to die and got prepared as she had a delicious meal that day, drank a bottle of coke, a glass of water, watched an interesting movie from the beginning to the end, sat on the bed and told her children it was time. Amazingly, she ate her meal to her fill that day. While she was watching the movie, there was a  power blackout or outage  that interrupted her last enjoyment but she insisted that she must watch the movie to the end. May be she knew it was her last movie. Her children obliged her and made it possible for her to watch the movie to the end. After the movie, she took a glass of water, sat on the bed and told her children it was time for her to go. 

Mrs Margaret Ekotoro died a great woman, loved by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Even at the age of 99 her loved ones wept as if she were still 25 in age because of her ageless impactfulness on everybody while on earth. She was very healthy with all her faculties functioning properly without debilitation before her golden roof caved in on 14 March 2025.

Mrs Lucky Ekotoro Ekanpou, my wife, wept beyond comfort like a baby when  she broke to me the news of the death of her mother, Mrs Margaret Ekotoro, on the telephone. Her baby-like tears made me lose my footing on the staircase and almost fell. All these are echoes of her impactful mother who was fully alive to her responsibilities of mothering and motherhood on earth as she never elevated one child above the other in the expression of motherly love. She was non-discriminatory and selfless in the expression of motherly care and love to her children.

Mrs Margaret Ekotoro  will be missed by the CDGM church at Adekagbene/ Kalafiogbene where she was a highly respected member who never missed a church gathering. She triumphantly attended her last church  convention at Adekagbene/ Kalafiogbene in January 2025. 

Rather clairvoyantly, within her she knew it would be her last presence in the CDGM church gathering at Adekagbene/Kalafiogbene. Particularly, she will be missed by her grandchildren, Peremoboere Ekanpou and Gesi Pereazuwa Ekanpou.

A virtuous woman for whom prayerful wishes for prolongation of life were encored like a rhythmically and thematically striking piece of music played, even at her apparently ripe age of 99, I hereby offer my condolences to the families of Ekotoro Oruserikeme and Okumbiri of Adekagbene/Kalafiogbene in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State. May God give the Ekotoro Oruserikeme and Okumbiri Families the required strength to bear the pain of this impactful death. 

For Mrs Lucky Ekotoro Ekanpou, my wife, may she be mystically and psychologically empowered to bear this irreparable loss so that she can find the comfort  to continue her life journey without weeping further comfortlessly.

Very finally, may the virtuous soul of Mrs Margaret Ekotoro find comfort in her new world where she is going to meet the likes of late Chief Ek Clark, Mrs Timiebi Maika Ekanpou and Maika Ekanpou of Ngbilebiri-Mein Kingdom.

 

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Rivers Crises: N'Delta peace advocate, Mulade cautions Wike to tread with caution over attack on ljaw nation

Warri: Niger Delta-born environmental rights activist and peace advocate Comrade Sheriff Mulade has strongly appeal and cautioned the Federal Capital Territory Minister Barr Nyesom Wike for his open attack and expression of deep hatred against the Ijaw nation across Nigeria because of personal political conflict/interest.

The Delta state-born global peace ambassador and development advocate from Ijaw extraction has called on the FCT Minister, Hon Nyesom Wike to thread with caution not to create wrong impression and instill bad blood between Ijaw's and her neighbours the Ikwerri in Rivers state and beyond. I want to clearly state that Ijaw people are not at war with Ikwerri's because of rivers' government house, which those not belong to any individual but for the good and peace-loving people of the entire Rivers State.

It has become necessary to formally appeal and caution the former Rivers State Governor and now FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, who is Lawyer and Life Bencher, to manage his anger, incitement comment, expression of hatred to avoid ethnic conflict and stop the continuous insults and attacks on Ijaw elders and leaders even those alives and dead over rivers family politics. We respect you as a former governor of our dire state that the Ijaw leaders sacrificed their lives to fought and created since 1967

It is worthy of note that the population and size of the Ijaw nation in Nigeria are not in dispute, particularly in the Niger Delta. Please stop whipping hatred of sentiment against the innocent people across the region. By God's willingly, Ijaw's can become Governors in Akwa-Ibom, Ondo, Edo, and Delta State's because they are Nigerians as well as FCT Ministers in the future with the present day Nigeria.

Your Excellency, our most admired FCT Minister today, Barr Nyesom Ezewon Wike. It is pertinent to remind you that Ikwerri's are Ijaw closest neighbours, and Ijaw's are Ikwerri's strongest partners, and you are a product and great beneficiary of that relationship. Please, for the sake of peace, unity, and development of our dire state and region, let adopt the South Africa proverb UBUNTU. *I am because you are, and you are because I am*. Rivers people love you, we all grow up as rivers youths and Niger-Deltan. We can not destroy or create anarchy because of political interest. We need to tread with caution because power is transcends

Delta Govt warns civil servants against age falsification, as state HoS Bayoko refers to Oborevwori as most workers friendly governor

Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has frowned at the attitude of some civil servants in the state who engage in age falsification with the dubious intent to prolong their years of service. He warned those involved to desist from such dubious act or face severe sanctions. 

Governor Oborevwori handed down the warning on Tuesday evening at a dinner organised by the state government for the College of Permanent Secretaries led by the State Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko; Heads of Extra Ministerial Departments; Directors and Deputy Directors in the state civil service which was held at the Event Centre, Asaba. 

The Governor said any civil servant who had attained the age of retirement should retire from the service so as to create opportunity for younger ones to be employed, adding that civil servants should always enter their real age in their documentations. 

He expressed appreciation to workers in the state for the love they had shown to his administration, pointing out that they should continue to support its policies and programmes for the overall growth and development of the state. 

"If you know you have attained retirement age, please, retire so that the younger ones could be employed into the civil service. 

"You should use your real age so that people can grow in the system. When you are old, please allow the young ones to take over. 

"I thank you for the love you people have shown to this administration. Let us continue to work together for the growth and development of the state," the Governor added. 

Continuing, he said: "Today's dinner is in fulfilment of the promise l made during our meeting of January 29, this year. We have come to interact and share experiences. 

"I think it is important l update you on some of the matters arising from our last meeting where a lot of issues were raised. First is the issue of poor telephone network in the Prof. Chike Edozien State Secretariat Complex among others," he said. 

As part of deliberate effort to mitigate the issue of poor telephone network at the new state secretariat, the Governor said he had directed the Commissioner for Science and Technology and his Special Duties counterpart to ensure that the issue was nipped in the bud before the end of March, 2025. 

"We are looking at the suggestions that you people made during our meeting of January 29, this year, with a view to seeing how we can implement some of the suggestions that are useful to the effective running of the state civil service," he said. 

While saying that the state had a workforce of over 60,000 with a monthly wage bill of over N16 billion monthly, the Governor appealed to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Extra Ministerial Departments, Directors and Deputy Directors to continue to discharge their duties diligently and professionally. 

Governor Oborevwori, said; "we will follow due process in appointing a new Head of Service when the time comes, and, in due course, more Permanent Secretaries will be appointed," stressing that the appointment of Permanent Secretaries was by merit and vacancy. 

The Governor, who disclosed that the state government was not owing any of its contractors, said, "recently, we did 40 per cent mobilisation to our contractors. The problem we are having is not the multinationals; it is our local contractors. 

"The local contractors cannot shortchange the state, if the site supervising engineers are doing their work. If the site supervising engineers are doing their work well, there will be no point for me to go to site for project supervision. 

"I am going to go round the 25 local government areas to inspect various projects being executed by the state government. If you are praying that l should not come, you are deceiving yourself. Any contractor who is doing a bad work will refund the money paid to him." 

While reiterating that his administration had not borrowed since it came on board, he said a lot had been achieved in the socio-economic growth and development of the state. 

Speaking at the gathering tagged "An Evening With The Governor," the State Head of Service (HOS), Mr. Reginald Bayoko, said the forum was an open show by the governor that the state workforce was a reliable and valuable partners in progress. 

Mr. Bayoko thanked Governor Oborevwori for his workers'- friendly policies and programmes since he came into office, and assured him of the total support of workers in advancing his MORE Agenda for Deltans and residents of the state. 

The Head of Service advocated that the full weight of the law should be enforced on erring public servants deeply rooted in age cheat and indiscipline. 

The evening featured entertainment through music, comedy and cultural dance by the Delta Cultural troupe.

www.deltastate.gov.ng

THOUGHTS FOR TOMPOLO_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

Troops trained track treason beyond trace without trading like that tempted trooper.

Sometimes trained troops trade and trail their commanders to retirement from earth.

It is futile to send trained  troops that are traitorous.

A trained  but tempted trooper once traded off jewelleries meant for Ayakoromo .

This I have known for decades.

I know your camp campaign to counter and conquer traitorous troops.

For you I am therefore sending trained troops.

These trained troops are grounded in how to track nets of treason and lies woven around you like waiting 'kpantainkpantain' web of spider.

These trained troops shall not trade like that trained trooper sent to Ayakoromo.

Despatched to you are the best trained troops anywhere on earth.

These are the trained troops with ten tentacles and talons to tackle  traitorous trail of any type camouflaged.

These trained troops know neither fatigue nor aging because they have swallowed the pill of agelessness and indefatigability.

These trained troops are ready to camp anywhere there is job, even if it means journeying nightly to reconnoitre that numbered camp. 

I mean that numbered camp now turned a celebrated history in Ekanpou 's camp four.

These trained troops are my thoughts carried by poems, novels, plays and essays as the Akparemogbene-made dugout canoe of iroko.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Late Pa. Dominic Biayeibo for Burial Tomorrow March 14, at Ayakoromo in Delta, as Family lnvites Well Wishers

The family of Zikora Biayeibo of Ayakoromo Town in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has announced the final burial rites of their beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and son, late Pa. Dominic Stingo Biayeibo who died December, 2024 after a brief illness at the age of 99 years (1925-2024.

He was survived by 10 children, 34 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren and many relatives.

In a statement jointly signed by Mr. Rustom Biayeibo for the children, and Mr. Lucky Murphy Biayeibo for the family stated as follows:

Funeral Arrangement:

_ Saturday 8th March, 2025 4:pm. Service of Song at Block 313 Flat 3 Abesan Estate Ipaja, Lagos State.

_ Thursday 13th March, 2025 4:pm. Service of Song at his residence G.R.A. Ayakoromo Town, Burutu LGA, Delta State.

_ Friday 14th March, 2025 900:AM. Body leaves Vennell Mortuary Warri Via Miller Waterside NPA to Ayakoromo Town.

_ 2:PM: Internment followed by Entertainment of guests/in-laws greeting.

_ 7:00PM: Social night wake keep till dawn.

Music by Gen. Best May alias Jfred and his giant star band of Africa among other guest artists. 

Sunday 16th March, 2025 10:00AM: Thanksgiving Service at Winners Chapel Ayakoromo Town.

Friends and well wishers of the Biayeibo family are hereby specially invited to join them give their patriarch a befitting final burial rites.

However, late Pa Dominic Stingo Biayeibo was a UK trained Pharmacist who lived his life in the oversea. He was a caring father to all, a cheerful giver and God fearing. He would be greatly missed by his lovely children, family, friends and admirers.

May papa gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bossom of the Lord, Amen, the statement added.

Dr Izonebi Alfred's New Book and His Current Viral Song 'Mienkemedonmo'_BY: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

Dr Izonebi Alfred, always kingly in every musical composition and stunning stage performances, celebrated globally as JKing by music enthusiasts and lovers, the exceptionally endowed highlife musician from Ndoro and Torugbene, yet with umbilical links to Oyangbene, in Delta and Bayelsa States whose  'Dibi' song took the music world by storm is currently the king of the Ijaw music world by critical assessment with his current song 'Mienkemedonmo' which thematically centres on how to enthusiastically celebrate those who merit it by their achievements in life however it makes the enemies envious of such celebrations and show of love. It is currently the song music lovers play and respond to  rhythmically in  varied dance steps in every Ijaw gathering. 

The 'Mienkemedonmo' song which has begun its journey across the music world like a wild harmattan fire is a herald of a new book written on Dr Alfred by a brilliant collection of  university dons from Niger Delta University, Amassoma, and University of Africa, Toru-orua in Bayelsa State. The book, LIFE AND MELODIES:THE MUSIC REALM OF IZON-EBI ALFRED, billed to be presented to the public in May 2025, explores the musical achievements of Dr Alfred whose legendary music career began from childhood. 

The expectations of eagerness to read this awaited book, and  the thematically and rhythmically captivating song 'Mienkemedonmo' are the current navigators and rulers of the Ijaw music world. While the 'Mienkemedonmo' song is  being applauded and enjoyed, all music lovers are waiting with baited breath to see  Alfred's awaited book launched alongside his music studio and a civic centre in May 2025. 

With the awaited book and the 'Mienkemedonmo' song musically raging and ravaging  the world of music listenership in positively borderless direction, it leaves no one in doubt that Dr Izonebi Alfred remains the unbeatable music force in the Ijaw music industry, yet he does not cry his music 'tigritude'; only the skillfully composed released songs cry the music tigritude'  and kingship of Alfred as they globalise Ijaw music beyond the traditional shores through digital technology avidly embraced by Dr Izonebi Alfred.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene in Delta State.

Late Amakosu-ere of Ayakoromo, Mama Awanka John-Ogbe final burial rites holds March 27, as family invites well wishers to grace the occasion

The families of Alaowei, Ligha and John-Ogbe of Diamo, Agberewei and Ekeremowei quarters of Ayakoromo community has announce the final burial rites of their beloved Aunt, sister, daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother, Mama Awanka Liverpool John-Ogbe, (Nee Alaowei), the Amakosu-ere of Ayakoromo Federated Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, who slept in the Lord on the 25th of February, 2025 at the age of 111 years (1914-1925).

She was survived by 2 sisters, 3 children, 35 grandchildren, 76 great grandchildren and 24 great great grandchildren.

In a statement signed by Bouwurubo John-Ogbe for the children and Mr. Ojobowini Kenewoun for on behalf the family stated as follows:

Burial Arrangement:

_Wednesday 26th March, 2025: 6:PM till dawn, Service of song/wake keeping at her husband's compound, Ekeremowei quarters Tamokunou, Ayakoromo.

_Thursday 27th March, 2025 9:AM: Corpse leaves Okwagbe mortuary to her hometown Ayakoromo.

_ 10:AM-2:PM- Christian funeral service by Altar of Fire Ministry, Ayakoromo.

_ 3:PM-  internment of the body at her compound Asesaghabiri quarters, Ayakoromo.

6:PM till dawn - social wake keeping at Ngbilebiri Primary School field, Ayakoromo.

Music by Peter MD.

_30th March, 2025- Thanksging service at Altar of Fire Ministry Ayakoromo by 9:AM.

Meanwhile, her illustrious grandson, Mr. Destiny Ogbe hereby specially invites friends and well wishers to join the John-Ogbe, Ligha and Alaowei families of Ayakoromo to give their beloved departed mother a befitting final burial rites.

However, late Mama Awanka Liverpool John-Ogbe until her death was the oldest woman (Amakosu-ere) of Ayakoromo community. She was a caring mother to all, a cheerful giver and God-fearing. Mama would be greatly missed by her surviving children, immediate family and the entire community.

May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of our Lord, Amen..

Gov Oborevwori, Manager, Mulade, others Bag Varsity Award of Exc

Burutu: The Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, in the Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State has honoured the Executive Governor of the State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori; a former Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator James Manager; and renowned peace ambassador, environmental and development advocate, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade among others, with awards of Excellence.

Others who were also honoured for their efforts in providing all necessary support include the Chairman of Burutu LGA, Hon Julius Takeme, and His Royal Highness, Bosu Dio (JP), Ayamabulou 1, the Ibenanawei of Iduwini Kingdom, who is the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Oil and Mineral Producing Communities of Niger Delta (TROMPCON), Delta State Chapter, representing the Ijaw Ethnic nationalities.

The awards of excellence were presented during the institute's first convocation ceremony that held in its premises on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

The Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Oborevwori was honoured for his commitment to upgrading the school to a polytechnic status, thereby making it the first Maritime Polytechnic in Nigeria, in West Africa, after South Africa.

Senator James Manager, who served as senator under the People's Democratic Party, PDP, from 2003 to 2023, was honoured for his immense contributions, for sponsoring numerous bills, and for his support towards educational development in the State.

Chief Mulade, who is the National Coordinator of the foremost nongovernmental organization, the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, and chairman of Delta State Mini-Football Association, was honoured in recognition of his doggedness and tireless advocacy for the establishment of higher institutions in Ijaw land.

The Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West council area of the State, had particularly pushed for the conversion of the then Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu, to a university, alongside the Delta State University of Science & Technology, Oleh; Delta State university of Education, Agbor, among others, before it was eventually upgraded to a polytechnic. 

According to the institution's management, Comrade Mulade's contribution and immense advocacy were too loud to be ignored by all. Therefore, the institution recognised and appropriated him through the award.

The Rector of the institute, Professor James Okoro, in appreciation, thanked the state government for ensuring the take-off of the polytechnic as well as acknowledged the roles played by other stakeholders, stressing that the awards which were presented was a demonstration of its resolve to honour their contributions to the academic institution and its societal development.

It would be recalled that the Delta State House of Assembly, with Rt Hon Oborevwori, then as Speaker, had unanimously approved the upgrade of the institute, formerly known as the Delta State School of Marine Technology, to a polytechnic, after the passage into law of a bill before the House seeking the repeal of the Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu, Law 2006 and enacting the Delta State Polytechnic, Burutu Law, 2023.

The Remembered Path of JP Clark and Gabriel Okara_By Ekanpou Enewaridideke

They lived in this world; they are still living in this world. Once on earth they told their stories unfazed  by the dramatics of the readers and listeners.

Their stories have fed the world with morals.

They were fed by their stories too because they did not beg to live on earth.

With every tide in the Niger Delta, their stories travel to lands far away, cradling the differently clothed story-lovers.

The stories of Clark and Okara have become the nodes from which new

storytellers sprout today.

Clark and Okara are the storyteller geniuses; 

Their stories shall preserve their names forever in every century

For Clark and Okara their stories have become the Bible of life.

Without long throats they once told their stories, not netted for once over thirst for man-made honey.

Because they tell their stories without thirst for man-made honey,

Because they tell long stories to guide the world, their life-ropes were lengthened like shadows beyond the vindictive snap of enemies...

Sure as the tide in River Forcados, may the life-rope of tellers of long stories be so lengthened on earth like Jp Clark and Gabriel Okara.

In the tides of our time  the marks of Clark and Okara have become the buds and the lodestar for every generation.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Tompolo Foundation Begins Profiling of 100 ICT Training Beneficiaries in Warri Today

Earlier on Friday, the Tompolo Foundation and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in collaboration with PEB ICT Services, has launched lCT training in warri with orientation of one hundred beneficiaries across the Niger Delta region for building of human resource and manpower on digital lnformation and Communication Technology (ICT).

Addressing the youths numbering over one hundred from the various ethnic groups across the Niger Delta region, especially Urhobo, ljaw, lsoko, ltsekiri, Ndokwa and Anioma, the Secretary Tompolo Foundation who also doubles as the CEO PEB ICT Services, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo stated that the program is aimed to empower young persons on various areas in digital technology.

He noted that the current economic hardship in the country can be easily curbed by those with skills on lCT technology and  technical knowhow to be self employed as well as to render professional services on lCT to private firms and government agencies in return for income generation.

He emphasized that the Tompolo Foundation and Tantita Security Services in collaboration with PEB ICT Services deem it fit to give back to society as part of their corporate responsibility, adding that the idea is also to support the government in curshen the hardship by empowering the youths on various skills in order to be self employed.

He charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the rare opportunity of the six months training by dedicating their time to learn and make themselves relevant in the society by contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of the region economy, the statement added.

In a related development, the Director PEB ICT Services, Mr. Moses Major emphasized that the program is to catapult the technical workforce of youths in the South-South Nigeria.

He maintained that the program would build capable manpower in the field of technology across the Niger Delta region whereby the youths can work from anywhere with the technology knowledge they acquired without stress.

He reiterated that there are a lot of benefits awaiting the participants ranging from monthly stipend to ease their transportation and feeding during the program while Laptops shall be given to the best performing participants at the end of the six months intensive training. He urged the beneficiaries to cease the opportunity seriously so as to better their lives.

Meanwhile, the program will commence profiling on Monday 10th March, 2025 starting by 9;30AM daily at PEB ICT Services by Standard School junction, Jakpa road Effurun, warri Delta State.

However, the various areas the program would cover includes; Computer Basics, Graphic Design, Web Development, Cyber Security and Data Analysis.

Some of the beneficiaries Mike Ugedi, Victor Akemotubo, Oyinbi Onduku, Annabel and Bakumo expressed joy for the opportunity to learn, while thanking the sponsors of the program for their benevolence and commitment to the growth of Niger Delta youths in the digital world embedded with so much opportunity to excel in life.

Featured Article: The Remembered Path of JP Clark and Gabriel Okara_By Ekanpou Enewaridideke

They lived in this world; they are still living in this world. Once on earth they told their stories unfazed  by the dramatics of the readers and listeners.

Their stories have fed the world with morals.

They were fed by their stories too because they did not beg to live on earth.

With every tide in the Niger Delta, their stories travel to lands far away, cradling the differently clothed story-lovers.

The stories of Clark and Okara have become the nodes from which new

storytellers sprout today.

Clark and Okara are the storyteller geniuses; 

Their stories shall preserve their names forever in every century

For Clark and Okara their stories have become the Bible of life.

Without long throats they once told their stories, not netted for once over thirst for man-made honey.

Because they tell their stories without thirst for man-made honey,

Because they tell long stories to guide the world, their life-ropes were lengthened like shadows beyond the vindictive snap of enemies...

Sure as the tide in River Forcados, may the life-rope of tellers of long stories be so lengthened on earth like Jp Clark and Gabriel Okara.

In the tides of our time  the marks of Clark and Okara have become the buds and the lodestar for every generation.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Tompolo Foundation Launches Empowerment Program for N'Delta Youths on lnformation Technology, to Kick Off March 10, in Warri

Earlier on Friday, the Tompolo Foundation and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in collaboration with PEB ICT Services, has launched lCT training in warri with orientation of one hundred beneficiaries across the Niger Delta region for building of human resource and manpower on digital lnformation and Communication Technology (ICT).

Addressing the youths numbering over one hundred from the various ethnic groups across the Niger Delta region, especially Urhobo, ljaw, lsoko, ltsekiri, Ndokwa and Anioma, the Secretary Tompolo Foundation who also doubles as the CEO PEB ICT Services, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo stated that the program is aimed to empower young persons on various areas in digital technology.

He noted that the current economic hardship in the country can be easily curbed by those with skills on lCT technology and  technical knowhow to be self employed as well as to render professional services on lCT to private firms and government agencies in return for income generation.

He emphasized that the Tompolo Foundation and Tantita Security Services in collaboration with PEB ICT Services deem it fit to give back to society as part of their corporate responsibility, adding that the idea is also to support the government in curshen the hardship by empowering the youths on various skills in order to be self employed.

He charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the rare opportunity of the six months training by dedicating their time to learn and make themselves relevant in the society by contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of the region economy, the statement added.

In a related development, the Director PEB ICT Services, Mr. Moses Major emphasized that the program is to catapult the technical workforce of youths in the South-South Nigeria.

He maintained that the program would build capable manpower in the field of technology across the Niger Delta region whereby the youths can work from anywhere with the technology knowledge they acquired without stress.

He reiterated that there are a lot of benefits awaiting the participants ranging from monthly stipend to ease their transportation and feeding during the program while Laptops shall be given to the best performing participants at the end of the six months intensive training. He urged the beneficiaries to cease the opportunity seriously so as to better their lives.

Meanwhile, the program will commence profiling on Monday 10th March, 2025 starting by 9;30AM daily at PEB ICT Services by Standard School junction, Jakpa road Effurun, warri Delta State.

However, the various areas the program would cover includes; Computer Basics, Graphic Design, Web Development, Cyber Security and Data Analysis.

Some of the beneficiaries Mike Ugedi, Victor Akemotubo, Oyinbi Onduku, Annabel and Bakumo expressed joy for the opportunity to learn, while thanking the sponsors of the program for their benevolence and commitment to the growth of Niger Delta youths in the digital world embedded with so much opportunity to excel in life.