PANDEF hails South-South governors on drastic development, calls on Niger Deltans to support them as there is more to do for the region

MESSAGE TO  SOUTH-SOUTH GOVERNORS AND PEOPLE ON THE OCCASION OF CELEBRATION OF DEMOCRACY DAY, 29TH MAY, 2025.

On this occasion of celebration of May  29th, Democracy Day, the National Chairman of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the foremost regional body championing the interests of the Niger Delta hereby extends heartfelt commendations to the Governors of the South-South region for their leadership and commendable performance in governance.

PANDEF especially salutes Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Prince Bassey Otu of Cross State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, and Governor Similayi Fubara of Rivers State, for their unwavering commitment to infrastructural development, including major road constructions, bridge expansions, urban renewal project, agricultural development and the initiation of port facilities. Added to them, the efforts of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, since his return and Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo during the past few months have been equally momentus

Combined, these efforts are significantly enhancing connectivity between our people, fostering regional integration, and laying a solid foundation for sustained economic growth within the individual states and across the Niger Delta. In addition to physical development, the governors have demonstrated a strong commitment to social welfare policies, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and the well-being of civil servants. These efforts are yielding tangible improvements in the quality of life for the region’s citizens in most places.

PANDEF observes that if this trajectory is maintained over the coming years, the region is poised to set national benchmarks and serve as a guiding model for other parts of the country. 

 

Looking forward, PANDEF reminds our Governors that the time to rest on our oars has not come, as there is more to be done. With our eyes on the ball, we should remain optimistic that the South-South region will continue on this path of growth and emerge as a beacon of hope, progress, and development in Nigeria as a whole. Furthermore,  forging closer collaborations within the framework of BRACED Commission and individual state-state support components  could subsequently build us all as economic corridors.

 

At the same time, the forum calls upon the people, especially our vibrant citizens, respected monarchs, elders, and community leaders to offer their full support and cooperation, and prayers for sustaining the  momentum in driving the region to even greater heights.

While acknowledging the various challenges that persist, including the unfortunate ongoing political crisis and the democratic erosion in Rivers State, PANDEF reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace, stability, and progress in the entire Niger Delta. Knowing that Rivers State will soon be free, we will intensify our efforts to mobilize and unite our people towards peace.  This is the indispensable foundation upon which more meaningful development can thrive.

Again, congratulations and happy celebrations. 

Ambassador Dr Godknows Boladei Igali, OON l, National Chairman PANDEF

Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Orubebe Hails President Tinubu on Two Year Milestone Achievements

By Hon. Prince Edumogiren Augustine.

Elder Godsday Peter Orubebe, CON, a venerable statesman and former Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs, has epitomized wisdom and leadership in Nigeria for decades. His deep insight into the country’s political landscape, coupled with an unwavering commitment to national advancement, has solidified his stature as a respected figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC). On this momentous occasion of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marking two years in office, Orubebe seizes the opportunity to spotlight the remarkable progress achieved under the President’s stewardship while calling for united support for his continuing endeavors.

Elder Orubebe offers heartfelt congratulations to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as he commemorates the significant milestone of completing the first two years of his administration. He emphasizes that reaching this pivotal juncture is a commendable achievement, conveying his best wishes for the President’s continued success as he navigates the latter half of his tenure.

Orubebe commends the unwavering dedication and tireless commitment displayed by President Tinubu throughout his administration. He lauds the President's exceptional leadership and visionary approach, which have been instrumental in steering Nigeria toward a brighter horizon.

Recognized as the key figure stepping into the leadership void left by the late Ijaw National Leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, Orubebe underscores the impressive accomplishments of President Tinubu over the past two years. He asserts, “Were it not for Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decisive victory in the 2023 elections, Nigeria might find itself in dire straits today. His bold move to eliminate the subsidy on petroleum products - an endeavor that previous administrations hesitated to undertake - has unleashed a multitude of advantages for our nation. Governors across the political spectrum are now expressing their gratitude for the increased allocations to their states, empowering them to initiate projects and manage their governance without the need for borrowing.”

Orubebe further highlights that the strategic decision to float the Naira, along with other prudent monetary policies, has invigorated both foreign and domestic investors, who are now eager to engage in a wide array of sectors within the Nigerian economy.

Moreover, the APC leader extol the significant infrastructure initiatives such as the ongoing Coastal Road Project, which will connect Lagos to Calabar, traversing through Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and culminating in Cross River State.

The Ijaw Leader envisions the initiative of the Lagos-Kano motorway, approximately 1,000 kilometers, as far more than merely a roadway; it stands an economic corridor that seamlessly links four geopolitical zones, including the federal capital city, Abuja, and integrates railways and other critical infrastructure currently under development to foster trade and facilitate the efficient movement of people.

Orubebe also commends the Tinubu administration for its unwavering commitment to combatting insecurity, addressing terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities that plagued the nation upon the President’s assumption of office. He believes this steadfast resolve has rekindled hope and confidence among Nigerians, paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future.

As he reflects on the transformation witnessed during these two years of President Tinubu's leadership, the elder statesman articulates his pride in the significant changes that have occurred. He expresses profound optimism for the achievements yet to come in the remaining two years of the President’s tenure, reaffirming his unwavering support for Tinubu’s ongoing efforts and his steadfast belief in the President’s capabilities.

Looking toward the horizon of Nigeria’s future, Orubebe conveys a profound sense of hope, inspired by President Tinubu’s resolute determination and visionary leadership. He firmly believes that as the nation strides forward, the President’s unwavering commitment will serve as a cornerstone in shaping a more radiant tomorrow for all Nigerians.

 Grateful for the invaluable contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Orubebe resolutely reaffirms his confidence in the President as an indispensable asset to the nation’s relentless pursuit of growth and development. Ultimately, he eagerly anticipates a flourishing Nigeria under Tinubu's enduring leadership, characterized by sustained progress, unity, and national prosperity.

Ijaw Media Executives Congratulate His Highness, Dr. Pilot Whiskey Arantan, the Pere of ljaws in Udu on his Birth Anniversary

Udu, Delta State___  Media CEOs from the ljaw extraction residents in warri on Thursday joined the great Pere of ljaw Community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, His Highness, King Dr. Pilot Whiskey Arantan Ogedegbe-Arere on the auspicious occasion of his birth anniversary.

In a surprise birthday visit, the Publisher of Niger Delta Mirror Newspaper Online, Comrade Oyinbi Onduku and the CEO of Delta Event TV, Mr. Mike Ugedi extended their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Pilot Whiskey Arantan Ogedegbe - Arere, the revered King of the Ijaw People residing in Udu, on his lofty birthday. 

Known for his leadership, wisdom and selfless services to humanity, Dr. Ogedegbe is celebrated as a man with a golden heart,  pace setter and a mentor who has greatly impacted the lives of many in the region. His contributions to the ljaw community as a coach and guide have made a lasting mark on the hearts of the people.

As we celebrate his special day, Niger Delta Mirror and Delta Event TV wish him many more years of fruitful achievements, good health, and continued success in all his endeavors. His legacy of leadership continues to shine brightly, guiding future generations towards peace and prosperity.

Once again, we extend our warmest wishes to His Majesty, Dr. Pilot Whiskey Arantan Ogedegbe - Arere, on this momentous occasion. May the years ahead be filled with endless blessings and joy in Jesus Mighty name, Amen.

Alaowei Louis Ogbeghan and Family Rejoice with High Chief. Godfrey Tare Pondi, GM Operations Tantita Security Services on his Birth Anniversary

I, Alaowei Preye Louis Ogbeghan aka Okpolokpo (CSO) and my humble family rejoiced with a wonderful boss and father figure, High Chief. Godfrey Tare Pondi, the lbe-Ebidouwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom and GM Operations Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as you adds another glorious year today.

Happy birthday to an amazing boss and mentor! Your love, wisdom and strength inspire us every day.

Working under your tetulage is the best thing that has ever happened to me and my family.

We are very grateful for the countless memories of support and kindness you shown towards us over the years.

May this your new age usher you into another awesome dimension of strength and perfect health. We earnestly pray that God grant you the wherewithal to continually live life to the fullest and impact your generation.

You deserve all the happiness in the world. Thank you for being our guiding light and a constant source of support. Here is to celebrating you today and always.

We love you so much boss, happy birthday!

Signed:

Mr/Mrs. Louis Preye Ogbeghan aka Okpolokpo, CSO to the GM Operations Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited

Bayelsa born wrestler Blessing Oborududu bids emotional goodbye to wrestling with a gold medal

2021 Tokyo Olympic silver medalist, Blessing Oborududu, has bid emotional goodbye to wrestling after 19 years of active bout on the mat

The 14-time African champion won her final bout to clinch gold for Bayelsa in the ongoing National Sports Festival in Abeokuta and end an illustrious career 

The Bayelsa born wrestler received emotional farewell from national teammates with pleasant standing ovation from fans, officials, and wrestling stakeholders 

An emotional Blessing Oborududu in her farewell speech "I want to thank everyone who has been part of my journey, the Nigeria Wrestling Federation led by Daniel Igali and the board members, my teammates, and family. 

"After the Olympics, I thought of retiring, but the President suggested I retire officially at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta where I made my first appearance as a young wrestler back in 2006".

"I created a lot of memories, but my most memorable one was the Tokyo Olympics, which ignited hope across Africa because it was the first ever medal from an African woman in wrestling at the Olympics, and I hope more will come for our future wrestlers" Oborududu said. 

In goodwill remarks, President Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Honourable Daniel Igali described Oborududu as an exceptional and absolute professional beyond being an athlete.

"The type of Blessing is not easy to come by, and not easy to replace. I get questions like how are you going to replace Blessing, the thing is you can't replace Blessing, you might have another athlete, but not Blessing. 

"That's why I say bitter-sweet because the selfish part of you wants athlete like this to compete forever because for you is not just to have any athlete that does well, but one who has that mindset, discipline, pureness for the sport and most of these wrestlers you see stay with her in her house and she takes care of them as a duty. She is like a big sister to them, and that only for me is more than being a champion on the mat." Igali stated. 

Also, Hannah Reuben led the tribute of teammates, who stated her heartfelt admiration for Oborududu, acknowledging her dedication, achievements, and impact. She expressed gratitude to her years of service and being a great teammate and captain, and wishing her well in her future endeavours. 

Promise Okotoko 

Media Assist. NWF 

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Just-ln: 19 Kidnap Victims Rescued Along Bille-Bonny Waterways by Asari Dokubo Private Security Outfit

Nineteen passengers who were kidnapped along the Bille-Bonny waterways in Rivers State have been rescued.

The victims, who had been held captive for 21 days, were freed on Monday during a rescue operation carried out by the Royal Fouche Security Services, popularly known as the Amama Soldiers. The security outfit is owned by the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari, His Royal Majesty Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari (Dabaye Amakiri I).

Following the successful rescue, the Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri, Da Amakiri Tubo, addressed the press, commending the operation and emphasizing the need for stronger security measures along the region’s waterways.

Out of the 20 abducted passengers, 19 were rescued alive. The 20th victim, a military officer identified as Lance Corporal Salisu Ibrahim, was not found. He had reportedly been taken away earlier by the kidnappers to an unknown location and remains missing.

Gov. Oborevwori Gives Account of Stewardship, Earmarks 42 Projects for Inauguration as he Marks 2nd Anniversary

 

...Gets Confidence Vote, Commendation From Delta Assembly 

 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has earmarked 42 road projects for inauguration in celebration of his administration’s second year in office.

 

During his State of the State address at the State House of Assembly in Asaba on Wednesday, Governor Oborevwori unveiled several of the projects, including the 46-kilometre dualisation of the Ughelli–Asaba Road (Sectors C1 and C2), the Isheagu/Ewulu Road, and the Phase I bridge.

 

Other projects include the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Mariere Street in Boji-Boji Agbor, the construction of the Kwale–Beneku bridge and approach roads, and the reconstruction of Orhorhor, Chechester, and Benjamin Oseregbaje roads in Sapele.

He also mentioned the construction of roads around Otovwodo junction in Ughelli and the maintenance, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and construction of various roads in Effurun and Ekpan.

 

Further works include the reconstruction of failed sections of Central Hospital Road, rehabilitation of the link road between the hospital and Police Command Roads in Warri, and the rehabilitation of General Hospital Road with a spur to Police Command Road from Warri/Sapele Road to Ajamimogha/Mabiaku Link Road.

Others he listed include the rehabilitation of Esisi Road from Warri/Sapele Road to Estate Roundabout with a spur to Nana College Road linking Ajamimogha Road, and the reconstruction of Upper and Lower Erejuwa Roads in Warri.

 

Also listed for inauguration are the construction of internal roads in Kokori, Mudi Beach Street in Abraka, and the Uruagbesa Oria–Abraka Road, off Sapele–Abraka Road (Phase I). Other roads include; Itoma Road in Umeghe Umiagha–Abraka, General Hospital Road in Oghara, Idumu Etiti Street with a spur to Market Road in Owerre Olubor, and Mission Road/Ogboi Street with a spur to Ogwashi-Uku Road in Akumazi. Additional roads include Boji-Boji Owa/Otolokpo, Otekpo Road in Ellu Town, and the Okpolo-Enhwe–Uwheru Road (Phase III) in Okpolo-Enhwe–Uwheru Town.

 

Further projects include the Obi-Ibabu Road at Onicha-Ukwuani, Ohorhe/Adagbrass–Ugolo/Okuodiete Road, Ezesi Road in Orerokpe, Okan/Oviri–Agbarho/Orido Road in Agbarho, and the old Okpanam Road from Post Office junction through St. Michael’s Catholic Church Roundabout to Okpanam Bypass junction. There is also the access and internal road at the Headquarters of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Ibusa, Ichie James Obodoechi Avenue/Chikozie Okafor Road in Asaba, Okirighwre–Benin Road from Sapele–Warri Road to Gammon Bridge in Okirighwre, Sapele, and Arhavwarien Avenue in DSC Township, Udu.

 

More projects include Ododegho Road (Phase I) from Ekiugbo junction, off Ughelli–Patani Expressway in Ughelli, Ovwodoremor Avenue in Iwreovie–Ogor, Ofuegbe Street in Amai, and remedial work on the old Umutu–Eku Road through Abraka. There is also work on the township road in Ogbinbiri and Ogbudugbudu communities, a slipway at Soki Zion in Ogbinbiri Community, Warri North, Kokodiagbene Community Road, and internal roads and drains in Kurutie Town (Phase II) in Warri South West Local Government Area.

 

Governor Oborevwori also highlighted his administration’s flagship projects, which include; three flyovers and three slipways in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun, saying; "these are currently at various stages of completion and are expected to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2026". He added that other major road projects across the state are also progressing at different stages.

 

Delivering what he described as the first-ever State of the State Address in Delta’s history, Governor Oborevwori said the mid-term report reflects the philosophy of the MORE agenda, which is driven by the core values of servant leadership, transparency, accountability, innovation, and excellence. 

He recalled that upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, he presented a roadmap for growing the economy, maintaining fiscal responsibility, enhancing a focused and efficient civil service, promoting investment, supporting social enterprises, and ensuring that the poor and vulnerable benefit from government policies and programmes.

 

He stated that his purpose at the assembly was to report on the progress made and to offer a glimpse of what to expect in the remaining two years of the administration.

 

Following the address, and for his prudent management of the State resources, the Delta State House of Assembly passed a vote of confidence in the governor.

The vote of confidence came through a resolution following a motion moved by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo and was seconded by the member representing Uvwie State Constituency, Hon  Edafe Emakpor.

Similarly, the House also commended him for what it described as visionary and transformational leadership, effective financial stewardship, and a firm commitment to human capital development across the state. 

This was sequel to a motion moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, who praised Governor Oborevwori’s achievements in key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

 

The motion was seconded by Hon. Ferguson Onwo, who represents Isoko South Constituency II, and was subsequently adopted through a unanimous voice vote presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor.

 

In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Emomotimi Guwor noted that Governor Oborevwori had done excellently through transformational leadership and strategic financial management.

He thanked the governor on behalf of the House for the commendable work being done for the development of the state.

Retraction and Public Apology on the publication title: 'IGP Arrests Endoro, Gbegha over communal crisis in Odimodi Community, as Sunny, lkisa, Teddy, Afidi, others on the run as police declares them wanted' By Niger Delta Mirror (The RealNews Media) Newspaper Online

Francis Tayor 

The management of Niger Delta Mirror also known as The RealNews Media, an online newspaper owned by Mr. Charlse Oyinbi Onduku hereby remorsefully retracts and renders unreserved public apology to Odimodi Federated Community, the Chairman, Hon. Chief. New-World Endoro, Mr. Solomon Gbegha, Hon. Chief. Combolous Ekisa, Chief. Sunday Gbegha, Mr. Doufe Justice, Hon. Teddy Benikurukuru, Hon. Akin Benikurukuru and Hon. Afidi Ebiarede respectively over the publication of a story dated Monday 26th May, 2025 at about 6:38AM with the caption: ' IGP Arrests Ndoro, Gbegha over communal crisis in Odimodi Community, as Sunny, lkisa, Teddy, Afidi, others on the run as police declares them wanted'.

In respect of the above, the management of the news media regrettably retract the entire publication and renders unreserved public apology which may have caused you public embarrassment, emotional pains or  tarnished your hard earned image over the years following the publication of the unintentional report as a result of misinformation by the source of the story.

The management offered this retraction and Public Apology in a good faith, with a sense of responsibility and a firm commitment to more informed, factual, truthful and balanced report in our future engagements.

The management having discovered the truth of the matter shortly after publication of the report, deem it fit to immediately pull down the entire publication from our news site, Facebook page as well as other social media Whatsapp groups on thesme Monday 26th May, 2025 at about 6:41AM.

The general public is hereby urged to disregard the earlier publication made by our media organization, that Odimodi Community is peaceful and there was no communal crisis caused by the names listed above in Odimodi Federated Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

And that the Chairman Odimodi Federated Community, Chief. New-World Endoro and his predecessor, Mr. Solomon Gbegha was not arrested as a result of the alleged allegations of causing communal crisis in Odimodi Federated Community, rather they where charged to court following a false petition against them, and thereafter asked to bail themselves in which they where unable to met the bail application terms and conditions due to limited time factor.

And that the lnspector General of Nigerian Police Force, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun never declared the above names mentioned wanted and that they where all lies fabricated by our source to mislead the general public.

The management once again, expressed our deepest apology as regards to the misguided publication, considering mutual respect to personal dignity as well as towing the part of peace as a panacea for society development.

Signed:

Management

Dr Dennis Otuaro and the Self-acclaimed Emperors_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

Everything has a season on earth. There is a season to appoint people into political offices. There is a season to recall such people when there is an earthquake-like infraction. There is also a season to call people to order for corresponding step-retracing and reconnection just as there is equally a season to commend good performance. For me this is the season  Dr Dennis Otuaro should be called to order by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu because his policy thrust in the PAP office necessitates a special presidential communication and re-orientation.Wouldn't one demand presidential intervention where the yesterday self-acclaimed emperors of the PAP office, ethnic jingoists and their accomplices feel unjustifiably choked administratively by Dr Dennis Otuaro's prized policy of borderlessness that eliminates rising border tensions and divisions among people cosmically bound together for peaceful co-existence.

The Amnesty office is the home of all Niger Deltans  however the political affiliations. In the  Amnesty office division into political borders does not exist because identity-construction, identity-negotiation and social belonging channelled through the binaries of demarcated political borders always create unnecessary tensions. This is one area over which  praises should be showered on Dr Otuaro for the simple reason that he has been able to move the office from the binaries of religious, ethnic and political borders in his developmental interactions with the people. By attitude and deliberate policy thrust, Otuaro has made the Amnesty office a borderless entity accessible to everybody without the encumbrances of border demarcation. It is for this reason some thinkers market the perspective that  Otuaro should be called to order by President Tinubu because perspective is what matters however the wrong situatedness  -    as Papa Davina in Soyinka's CHRONICLES OF THE HAPPIEST PEOPLE ON EARTH would say glibly: 'Perspective is all'.

Otuaro knows that tensions arise when symbolic borders are manipulated  by the rulers and the privileged few.As a manager of borders, he works hard to see how border tensions can be held at bay. He knows that poor border management leads to the Israel-Palestine, Us-Mexico, Russia-Ukraine border crises,, Nigeria-Biafra civil war and  many others. Past PAP Administrators lacked this knowledge and so they ran the office along borders that create dichotomies of oppressors and oppressed as evident in the cries of Amnesty beneficiaries whose monthly entitlements were fingered by some notorious self-acclaimed emperors without justification.

Right from the dawn the PAP office had been  routinely run on a lane that bred borders. On these different borders are people conditioned to appropriate the resources  for their own self-aggrandizement and self-exhibitionism at the expense of the real beneficiaries of the programme.These people strut everywhere like pigeons and flaunt their acquired wealth and power. At such time salaries of beneficiaries were tampered with and real beneficiaries displaced in skills acquisition and empowerment programmes.

These privileged individuals became emperors in the PAP office that any new administrator was structurally compelled to worship them contractually and otherwise or be prepared to leave the PAP office on the strength of a systematically built blackmail, browbeating and propaganda. Particularly for PAP Administrators with no roots in the Niger Delta struggle, they became puppets to these self-acclaimed emperors  who often  journey to the media at the slightest provocation to batter the image of the PAP Administrator using any narrative that gives their story apparent believability.

Awakened to the reconceptualization and reconfiguration of borders necessitated by the reshaping of borders in the 1980s, borders as social constructs, they are sites for exchanges, interactions and self-actualization as the authentic PAP beneficiaries  strive to realise their self-actualization in the face of self-acclaimed emperors   who have wreathed themselves around them like killer pythons. Contrarily, borders become sites of tension and crisis when the rulers and the so-called emperors manipulate the symbolic borders to create dichotomies that antagonise and alienate the authentic beneficiaries and plant non-beneficiaries on empowerment platforms genuinely designed for the people. With the oppressive posturing of the emperors, the real beneficiaries strive to achieve their self-actualization and social belonging. 

It is a known affirmation that  for the real PAP beneficiaries, their identities as the right beneficiaries of PAP must be constructed and clearly defined. With the symbolic borders administratively  manipulated in the PAP office, border tensions and crises proliferate among the contending forces whose self-actualization possibilities have been systematically blighted. Endless border tensions habitually  became the heritage in the PAP office passed on from one head to another like a valued archaeological object. This was the state in which Dr Dennis Otuaro met the PAP office. Would Dr Otuaro also manipulate the symbolic borders,  create tensions, divisions, new emperors and provoke incendiary self-actualization struggle between emperors and the actual beneficiaries?

Let me quickly proclaim that Dr Otuaro intellectually has roots in border studies as a political scientist. Both as a geographic construct and  a social construct, he knows the dangers of symbolic borders administratively manipulated and mismanaged through self-serving policies ambitiously pursued. With his academic exposure, Dr Otuaro consciously laboured to ward off any form of border tensions resulting from the self-actualization drive of the PAP beneficiaries. In his policy formulation and policy implementation, he did not create borders in the PAP office as an enlightened administrator. For the conservative apostles of borders deliberately created in the PAP office, Dr Otuaro deserves expulsion from the office for working devotedly to end border tension through a refined touch to existing programmes such as beneficiary management, stakeholders engagement, scholarship scheme, vocational trainings and empowerment programmes.

Specifically, Dr Dennis Otuaro became the Administrator of PAP on 14 March 2024. As a man with deep roots in how tensions emanate from compromised and manipulated symbolic borders, he gave priority attention to some key issues as soon as he was appointed. Through a thorough verification of beneficiaries, 1,129 fake beneficiaries were identified and expunged from the bloated list of 12,467 beneficiaries. In the 2024 academic session, scholarship beneficiaries were increased from 1,700 to 2,500 with 53.3% allocated to women as a demonstration of gender sensitivity and balance in distribution of available opportunities of growth. 

It is noteworthy that as a step towards  continued demonstration of gender sensitivity, Dr Otuaro also created a space for over 1,300 women to be engaged vocationally; and at the end of the vocational training,  1,208 women were given empowerment support packages just as over 90 maritime cadets had refresher courses to enhance their capabilities as an enablement to attain the Officer of the Watch certification.Towards an ambitiously  proper aviation and maritime training , 40 aircraft maintenance engineers and four cadet pilots have been sent to South Africa.

The overseas scholarship scheme for PAP beneficiaries had  been either comatose or dead for years, but Dr Otuaro has revived it. Over 50 Niger Deltans have  been despatched to UK, USA and Canada to study different courses of their choice.These achievements can only be credited to a PAP Administrator who is not only intellectually equipped but also prudent in resource management, developmentally ambitious and audacious. These are the positive things that characterise the reform-consolidated steps of Dr Otuaro.

Towards the eradication of any tension that may stem from compromised border management and to ward off individualised dichotomies in building broad functional relationships  and synergies across the Niger Delta, 135 existing  conflicts have been proactively identified , and out of this number, 100 conflicts have been resolved by Otuaro through the Alternative Dispute Resolution approach. Dr Otuaro has been able to achieve all these with amazing speed  and ease through proactive grass roots engagement of all core stakeholders in the Niger Delta struggle for developmental manumission and breathing space.

Amazingly, there is an ease with which Dr Otuaro daily  runs the PAP office. Otuaro knows that borders as social constructs can be meaningfully engaged to attain self-actualization and social belonging of the beneficiaries if the social borders are not manipulated by administrators. Because the social borders have been functionally and meaningfully engaged by Dr Otuaro, self-actualization opportunities have been opened up for the real beneficiaries of PAP. The so-called  self-acclaimed emperors whose self-serving, narcissistic and exploitative tendencies have been caged through right policy thrust are the ones who constantly fill the social media with tendentiously cooked distracting stories about Dr Otuaro since the social, as Wole Soyinka would say in CHRONICLES OF THE HAPPIEST PEOPLE ON EARTH: 'The social media is always hungry for scandal. The electorate can be swayed by the most trivial speculation' (503).

 Where Dr Otuaro strives to stop divisions and establish borders where all Niger Deltans can interact meaningfully and realise their dreams of self-actualization and social belonging as accredited PAP beneficiaries, the self-acclaimed emperors peopled by some ex-agitators, expired ethnic jingoists and their accomplices strive to restore and  recreate divisions that intensify border tensions.  Otuaro believes in functional borderlessness in running the PAP office because it is only  borderlessness that can counter and stop targeted ethnicization, hegemonization and individualisation.

Because Dr Otuaro is at work to remove borders in PAP and enthrone borderlessness where the real beneficiaries can realise their dreams of self-actualization and social belonging, where beneficiaries can access any opportunity without a godfather or political connections, the self-acclaimed emperors who have positioned themselves as the deadly detractors of the Amnesty boss have contrived to throw image-killing deadly stones at Dr Otuaro through co-ordinated and evilly synchronised media war  -  sometimes vindictively extended to High Chief  Dr Tompolo, who is the first  incarnation of borderlessness in building functional relationships across all borders in Nigeria. 

To create a meaningful sustainable space for my prefatory declaration I must clearly establish the stand that  for Otuaro's achievements in the PAP office traced to his roots in the policy of borderlessness,  President Ahmed Bola Tinubu should call him  to order by telling him  to walk undistractedly  on the borderless path in the running of the PAP  because his 'Macbethic'  detractors, deliriously wild with wild stories of denigration, will die a natural death when Dr Otuaro remains  botherlessly borderless in his policy thrust as a veteran in the Niger Delta struggle who had tasted a forest life of survival  in the heat of the Niger Delta agitation when Tompolo was declared wanted.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Gov Umo Eno’s Defection: A Clear Sign of Weak Leadership, Not Political Strategy:By_ Oto-obong Ntia

I’ve taken time to listen to Governor Umo Eno’s reasons for decamping from PDP to APC, and to be honest, those reasons are not just weak — they are laughable.

The Governor claims he's leaving because the PDP at the national level has two factions of national secretaries. Really? Is that enough reason to abandon the party that gave you the platform to become governor? Let me ask the Governor — Sir, if your house has a leaking roof or your family is facing internal issues, will you pack your bags and move out? No! You fix the problem. Leadership is not about running away; it’s about standing firm and providing solutions.

He even admitted that the PDP in Akwa Ibom has the structure to deliver his second term. So why jump ship to APC? Has he forgotten that during the 2023 elections, APC in the state was divided into factions, each headed by different governorship aspirants? What makes him think APC is immune to internal crises? Now that he is running away from PDP to go and face old folks that left PDP for him to APC, does he think the journey for his APC ticket will be that smooth? I can bet you that the governor will not get the APC ticket unopposed. 

It’s more troubling that a sitting governor, who should be a leader in PDP, is acting as if he has no power to influence order at the national level. The problem PDP is facing today is as a result of injustice when the Northern Cabal of the party refused to zone 2023 presidency to Southern Nigeria. Wike is fighting a good fight to protect southern interest and that is why he is supporting Tinubu as a southern  president instead of Atiku Abubakar a Northerner who wanted to continue from where Buhari stopped. 

Why can't my Governor stay calm and solve PDP issues at the National level? That’s not leadership — that’s fear, lack of capacity, and political cowardice. Why not meet Wike for advice? 

Also my Governor says he admires President Tinubu’s leadership. But what has he learned from Tinubu’s political journey? When Tinubu was governor of Lagos under AD, he stood his ground even when Obasanjo withheld state allocation. He didn’t defect. He stayed, fought, and built his structure. That’s why he is President today. If Tinubu had behaved like Gov Umo Eno today, he would have become irrelevant politically. 

Look at Wike — the former governor of Rivers State. In 2015, when Jonathan lost and APC took power, Wike stood his ground. He didn’t defect to APC despite the storms. He built PDP into a strong opposition. Even today, he’s still a member of PDP despite working as a minister under an APC government. If Wike can remain in PDP and support Tinubu, why can’t Umo Eno do same?

Now to the most laughable part — I’ve heard that Governor Umo Eno plans to still control PDP in Akwa Ibom even after joining APC. That’s where he will completely lose it.

Governor sir, if you want to leave PDP, do so with your full chest. Carry your bags and go with everyone who wants to follow you. But please, leave PDP alone. We have members who are not beggars. We don’t depend on state funds to survive. We have seasoned technocrats and business owners who can fund the party from their personal pockets.

Let it be clear — any attempt to remain in APC and control PDP from the backdoor will be resisted by true PDP stakeholders. You can’t eat your cake and still have it.

Some of us have contested primaries in this party and were rigged out, but we stayed. We’ve never asked for food from your government. Yet we remain loyal to our party. So when you say you won’t allow “strangers” to take over PDP, who exactly are the strangers? Some of us have been in PDP since 1998, from the very beginning of this democracy.

You may not know us because we don’t play “stomach infrastructure” politics, but we are the backbone of PDP — the real grassroots believers who value this party. Like God told Elijah that there are prophets he doesn’t know who have not bowed to Baal, so will it shock you to know that there are many PDP loyalists ready to fund and revive this party — without collecting a single naira from you.

So, goodbye His Excellency. But as you leave, don’t look back. Because the PDP you are despising today will surely bounce back tomorrow — stronger, united, and ready to win.

Otuaro Hails President Tinubu for Distribution of 663 Laptops to Amnesty Scholarship Beneficiaries

 

PRESS RELEASE

Otuaro Thank President Tinubu As PAP Presents Laptops To 663 Scholarship Beneficiaries

The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has concluded the distribution of laptops to final year beneficiaries of its scholarship scheme aimed at enhancing their academic research in universities across Nigeria.

The agency presented a total of 663 laptops to the beneficiaries in the 26 partnering and 72 non-partnering universities at the end of the exercise, which lasted between April and May 2025.

The PAP also carried out physical verification and orientation programme for the newly deployed 3,171 beneficiaries in the resumption list for the 2024/2025 academic session.

Various teams coordinated by the PAP's Head of Education, Dr Charles Ariye, visited the schools to distribute the laptops to the beneficiaries and perform the verification and orientation programme.

Speaking on the laptops distribution, the PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, reiterated that the decision was based on the realization of the usefulness of the mobile computing device to the students' academic pursuit and overall success.

He said the gesture was in fulfillment of his promise to the scholarship beneficiaries during his tour of partnering universities in 2024.

While expressing optimism that the laptops would help the beneficiaries a great deal, Otuaro urged them to make good use of them and justify the government's huge investment in their education.

He also said the physical verification and orientation programme was part of his leadership's policy of due process, transparency and accountability to ensure a headcount of all beneficiaries, and enlighten the fresh beneficiaries on the PAP's education policy.

Otuaro advised all PAP scholarship students to take their studies seriously and shun acts capable of putting their academic pursuit in jeopardy and ruining their bright future.

He restated his leadership's unwavering commitment to implementing the programme's objectives for the advancement of the Niger Delta and in support of President Bola Tinubu's avowed commitment to the region's peace, stability and development.

"We will continue to partner with the institutions and create access to university education for our youths, thereby reducing the human capital gap in the Niger Delta and contributing to national manpower development.

"This is also with a view to deepening efforts to ensure sustainable peace, stability and socio-economic growth in the region in line with the renewed hope agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR", Otuaro said.

The PAP helmsman expressed profound appreciation to the president for his massive support for the programme, noting that it demonstrates his undiluted love for the Niger Delta and the youths in particular.

Signed:

Mr Igoniko Oduma

Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme

21/05/2025

Izonebi Alfred and the Globalization of Ijaw Culture_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

Thoughts journeying poetically today like Jp Clark  in 'The casualties' I must say that the Ijaw highlife musicians are not only those who are dead; the Ijaw highlife musicians also include those who are still alive.The Ijaw highlife musicians are not only those who use ultra-modern musical instruments; neither are they only those who use percussion instruments such as 'opuozi' drums  and 'ekraiye'  sticks that depend on the skillfulness of percussionists. The Ijaw highlife musicians are many; the iconic Izonebi Alfred is one of the Ijaw highlife musicians. As an Ijaw highlife artiste he is clearly located by his undistracted philosophical dedication to his music career and consequently enjoys visibility and radiance in the Ijaw music industry however the number of Ijaw highlife musicians. To borrow a metaphorically cast philosophical statement from Barrister Soja Smooth in his song, 'Born Singer', ' the stars are very many in the sky but it strikes a difference when the moon appears in all her splendour and radiance'.

Gathered here today is a surging crowd responsive to the cultural, philosophical, social, educational, traditional, religious and mystical rhythms and echoes of JKing Dr Izonebi Alfred"s songs and stunning stage performances  -  the musically gifted Alfred differently addressed as music king by music lovers and critics as an offshoot of critical analysis of his music.

For the surging crowd gathered here and beyond it is a strongly held position that Dr Izonebi Alfred is the digitally rooted exceptional Ijaw highlife musician whose meteoric rise to music stardom is enabled by thematically rich compositional excellence and indefinable stunning stage performances – magical stage performances reinforced by his theatrical experience and exposure traceable to his immersion in the waters of Theatre Arts at the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State. Through compositional dexterity mapped in his numerous songs and captivating stage performances, Alfred has deployed music to project and promote the Ijaw culture beyond the shores of Nigeria. In Izonebi Alfred’s songs one can clearly behold  a positively and historically charged stirring image of Ndoro and Torugbene communities alongside their tourist potentials which are echoes of an aspect of Alfred’s music career devoted to the promotion of the communities from which he emerged biologically and historically. 

Undeniably, Ndoro in both Delta and Bayelsa States and Torugbene in Delta and Bayelsa States are the biological claimants of Izonebi Alfred as his umbilical cord  was interred there, though Oyangbene in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State also has an indisputable historical claim over the magically talented musician with an endless stream of songs.As historically chronicled, product of a marital union between Alfred Gbayena and Kehinde Tou, Izonebi Alfred is paternally from Ndoro and maternally from Torugbene in Bayelsa and Delta States. 

Historical chronicles reveal that Izonebi was first spotted as a musician inside a mosquito net in a raffia palm tree-tapping forest in Ndoro town by his father Alfred Gbayena who caught him singing Bestman Doupere’s song ‘Ofurogha’. His graduation from the self-made music apprenticeship in the forest took him to the mosquito Music Band co-ordinated solely by his own father Alfred Gbayena who occasionally created avenues for the band to entertain people as a broader step towards mastery and perfection of his music talent compared to the initial forest apprenticeship. Alfred Gbayena was equally a highly gifted musician in his heydays, though without any recorded music album to his credit because his music talent was only showcased as a kind of entertainment during informal gatherings in the town.

Izonebi Alfred’s music journey took him to King Dr Robert Ebizimor after his graduation from the Mosquito Music Band in Ndoro that thrives on hand-made traditional musical instruments of ‘tinitini’ and ‘ekraiyogbolo’ sticks. Alfred found his roots in the king Robert Ebizimor's  music family in 1991 but was  not engaged as a full-fledged member of the band until King Robert Ebizimor paved the way for him to finish his primary school at Community Primary School 2, Sagbama, in 1993  and Community Secondary School in Sagbama in 1999 since he was already in primary five at Community Primary School, Toru-Ndoro, from 1985 to 1991 when he journeyed to the family of King Ebizimor. Having finished his primary and secondary education under the financial sponsorship of King Robert Ebizimor, Izonebi Alfred proceeded to the Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State where he studied Theatre Arts and graduated in 2008 with a B.A degree in Theatre Arts and did his NYSC in 2011. 

Historically, in 1991 King Ebizimor formally requested to take Izonebi away from Alfred Gbayena having seen Aguiyi-Ironsi performed amazingly in the company of the Mosquito Music Band. However, Alfred's debut performance on the stage was in 1992 at the age of 12 when late King Robert Ebizimor gave him an opportunity to entertain music lovers with the seminal song 'Duamabou'  -  a song that eventually launched Izonebi Alfred into the music world as a young man brimful of healthy promises as a legendary musician on waiting wings. These were the healthy promises King Robert Ebizimor foresaw like  Nostradamus and named him IZONEBI which was a change from his biological name AGUIYI-IRONSI given to him at birth by his parents. Besides occasional stage appearances with King Ebizimor, Izonebi Alfred was fully engaged as a member of Robert Ebizimor and his Izon Brothers Band after his graduation and NYSC service – a period during which Alfred’s music talent and skill had been sufficiently honed to entertain music lovers and enthusiasts.

Izonebi Alfred, a fourth child in a family of eight children, was born in the rural community of Ndoro on 20 May 1979 where he lived majorly in the forest as the son of a palm wine tapper, physiotherapist and trado-medical practitioner but he has metaphorically become the 'okinikini' snake  viewed against the background of his digitally mastered and culturally rooted music that thematically and instrumentally stirs all music lovers like a gentle evening breeze that blows towards the sea shore from the ocean when one is seated on the concrete jetty at Burutu waterside in Delta State in a mood of relaxation.

It is well-known to everyone that when the Okinikini snake outgrows a river, it migrates to a bigger river and gets comfortably submerged in pursuit of its life journey of maritime hunting for existence. Metaphorically, Izonebi Alfred has musically outgrown the Ndoro river and moved  to the global stage where he has begun to globalise the Ijaw culture in all its strands with the enablement from his digitally rooted and sophisticated music career that thematically and instrumentally gospels the Ijaw culture on the social media. Alfred’s music vision is globally rooted beyond the world of Ndoro, Torugbene, Oyangbene and Sagbama.

Happily married with children, Alfred is a phenomenally talented and humble young man whose approach to his music career is philosophically and ideologically based and situated. His music career carries echoes of a flawlessly prepared survey plan in the geography of music. As a musician he sees music revivalism movement as an ideological one which enables him to revive the traditional old songs of Birifou, Ball-ere Meslore, Kuro-endi, Binta Ezekiel Ebenaghan, Bekedoumo Okoloba and others. He also sees the immortalisation of late King Robert Ebizimor, Bestman Doupere, Hon. Teiyeibo Agbeotu, Field Marshal Echo Toikumo, Professor IK Belemu and many others as a philosophical commitment; and this is reflected and mapped in his songs that musically chronicle and immortalise these departed Ijaw music legends. 

There is something ideological about how Alfred pursues his music career. For Izonebi Alfred, to awaken Nigerians politically to the ideals of good governance, to awaken Nigerians culturally to the acceptable ethos and treasured values in the society, to awaken Nigerians developmentally in relation to the available resources of development, is an ideological task as reflected in his songs that condemn and satirise misgovernance  and promote culture as an element that moves society forward on a geometric scale. In all songs of Alfred one can identify a visible presence of a skillfully mastered attempt to revive dying traditional Ijaw songs coupled with consistent promotion and immortalization of departed Ijaw music legends like King Robert Ebizimor and others too many to enumerate.

Beyond his universally applauded compositional maturity, dexterity and stunning stage performances, Alfred is a sociable and approachable person who maintains healthy relationships with people without being snobbish and discriminatory – an attitude that reveals itself in his borderless philanthropy and financial assistance to people in a noiseless and voiceless manner distinguished from the radiant self-exhibitionism of the biblical Pharisees.

 Izonebi Alfred snakes through the minds of Ijaw people as a phenomenally unbeatable music philanthropist in the Ijaw music industry as reflected in his songs philanthropically deployed to promote and immortalise late Ijaw music legends without expressed solicitation from the families of the deceased. Socially and musically, Alfred is a practitioner of borderless philanthropy both on stage and off stage.

Nobody argues that Izonebi is compositionally a grandmaster, giant, guru, legend, in music and on stage performances. Perhaps it is these qualities late King Dr Robert Ebizimor saw and crowned Izonebi Alfred a king in Ijaw music after him – an intellectual extension of which was done by King Robert Ebizimor Fans Club of Sagbama that decorated Alfred a Doctor of Philosophy in Ijaw music. 

Above all these ennoblements, Alfred is a genius of gratitude. As a genius of gratitude, Alfred appreciates anything somebody does for him however small, particularly what King Robert Ebizimor did for him musically and educationally while alive. In gratitude to King Ebizimor for his good deeds to Alfred, music lovers can hardly identify a song of Izonebi Alfred that does not mention Ebizimor either in appreciatory or immortal tone. As a genius of gratitude, Izonebi Alfred had long declared that he would musically appreciate King Ebizimor until his last breath deserted him at the ripe age. Alfred's very debut song entitled, 'Pere Kenide' (Pere Keride), carries roots of gratitude    reflective of appreciation  of King Ebizimor's role of musical adoption and mentorship of him when he journeyed into the music family of King Robert Ebizimor in 1991.

Premised on unsolicited accolades and critical evaluation from people across the world, Alfred is a prodigy of musical composition and stage performances. An exceptionally talented iconic artiste he is right from the mosquito net and Mosquito Music band days to  this day,  with very healthy relationships with people across all borders of life, a producer of over 174 music albums, it surprises no one that Izonebi Alfred is the home of awards of recognition of over fifty in number from different people and organizations which cannot be accommodated here in full details. However, for League of Friends (Niger Delta University Graduates), he was decorated Honourable on the 29th of August 2010; for National Associatioan of Odimodi Students, he was given award of appreciation on 29 December 2013; in 2017 he was given Bayelsa Musical Artiste Award (Owigiri); from Kpooka Media, he was given international merit award; from Boloubo Ogbo I of Izonebi-ebe he was given merit award for intellectual and creative work on 27 December 2018; from Sagbama Federated Communities he was given the best philosophical Izon Musical  Entertainment Award on 12 September 2018; from National Union of Kpakiama Students he was given Award of Excellence for his contribution to the growth and development of the union and Ijaw nation in general; from Aleibiri Unity Carnival he was given award as the Exceptional Pillar of sport/cultural development in Ekelga, Bayelsa State on 5 January 2022; from Ndoro Federated Communities he was given award as the Numoun Pere I of Abayai kingdom on 6 January 2022; from Strength of an African Women Foundation he was given Female Gender and Development Award on 12 February 2023; from Bayelsa Musical Artiste award he was named Artiste of the year (Owigiri) in 2021; from Sagbama communitity he was awarded the Numu Pere I of Agbedi-Owei for his consistent promotion of Izon rich cultural heritage through Owigri Music; from College of Education, he was named as the owner of the most innovative and Creative Music Band on 28 December 2022 and as the Musical Re-inventor of Izon lost values and culture. 

It is particularly interesting to pinpoint that having skillfully told enduring cultural stories with his digitally rooted music career, Izonebi Alfred has become a global figure whose songs explore themes that are universal in appeal. This thematic globalization underscores his metaphorisation as the 'okinikini' snake of the Ijaw music industry. Having outgrown both the Ndoro river and the Ijaw music industry, Izonebi Alfred has gone global with his music career because his songs and electrifying stage performances have projected him beyond the shores of Nigeria  through digitalization. 

We must feel obliged to note as a final note that for an Ndoro-born young man to globalise the Ijaw culture through music, for an iconic highlife musician who has also taken it upon himself the task to mentor budding Ijaw musicians as a component of his ideological drive to globalise the Ijaw culture through music and dazzling stage performances, Izonebi Alfred deserves all the ennobling celebrations in the world – even beyond the celebration of his music career, book, ultra-modern music studio and event centre. On his ideologically and philosophically  situated music career that has today earned him celebratory ennoblement from Ijaw people and beyond, congratulations to JKing Dr Izonebi Alfred!

Ekanpou  writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Burutu PDP Converged for Stakeholders Meeting on Monday, Strategizes Ahead Mobilization of Grassroot Party Faithfuls

1. Opening Prayer was said by the woman leader Comr. Boyelayefa Ambakederemo.

2. Introduction of excos was honorably led by Comr. Jackson Agbor and other distinguish stakeholders present from different wards respectively.

3. Opening Remark: By the Acting Chairman, PDP Burutu L.G.A

Distinguished leaders, respected stakeholders, party faithful, and loyal members of our great party across the eleven wards of Burutu Local Government Area,

It is with a heart full of gratitude and appreciation that I welcome you all and extend my warmest regards. Today, I stand before you not just as Acting Chairman, but as a fellow comrade in the noble struggle to preserve, promote, and advance the ideals of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Burutu L.G.A.

I sincerely thank each and every one of you our ward leaders, unit executives, youth and women wings, elders, and stakeholders for your unwavering love, unity, and commitment to our party. Your dedication across all eleven wards has been the backbone of our continued relevance and strength at the grassroots level.

Despite the distractions and recent defections, I am proud to say that the true patriots of this party are still here standing strong, standing firm, and standing in love for the PDP. Those who left did not go with sincerity or vision, and their intentions were never in the interest of the people.

But we those of us who have chosen to remain, to consolidate, and to rebuild we are the future of this party. Your loyalty and sacrifices will not be in vain. I assure you, there will be a reward for every effort you have made to advance our cause. History will remember you as the ones who held the line, who chose loyalty over personal gain, and who believed in the enduring strength of our party.

Let us continue to work hand in hand, ward by ward, unit by unit, to deepen our reach and consolidate our structures. The journey is not over, but with unity and love, our victory is certain. Thank you

4. Sponsorship of the party:

Another key point I must commend us all for is our collective agreement and commitment to self-funding the party. In Burutu L.G.A, we have demonstrated political maturity and ownership by choosing not to wait for external help or rely solely on a few individuals. Instead, we have boldly embraced the responsibility of promoting PDP activities using our own resources.

We agreed and rightly so that, the strength and sustainability of our party lie within us. This decision is not only a show of love for the PDP, but a clear indication that we are ready to take charge of our destiny as a political family.

Every contribution whether financial, logistical, or moral has gone a long way in ensuring that our structures remain active, our presence felt, and our loyalty unshaken. And for that, I say a big thank you to all of you.

Let it be known that those who build the house are the ones who will live in it. Your sacrifices and support will never go unrewarded.

Together, we shall continue to strengthen PDP from the grassroots up, and no challenge will be too big for a united and self-reliant party like ours.

5. Status of Ward Excos: 

To all our dedicated Ward Leaders across the eleven wards of Burutu Local Government Area,

As we continue to reposition and strengthen our great party at the grassroots, I am calling on all Ward Chairmen and Coordinators to urgently compile and submit the names of their full Ward Executive Committees (Excos). This exercise is crucial for proper documentation, strategic planning, and alignment with our ongoing reorganization efforts.

In doing so, I urge you to exercise caution, sincerity, and political vigilance. We must ensure that those appointed into sensitive positions are true party loyalists men and women who have stood with us through thick and thin. We cannot afford to empower opportunists or agents planted by opposition parties like APC, LP, or others who do not wish the PDP well.

We have seen how betrayal and sabotage from within have weakened some structures in the past. This must not be repeated. Let loyalty, integrity, and commitment to the PDP be the key criteria in selecting your excos.

This is a call to duty, and your cooperation is non-negotiable. Let us continue to build a united, trustworthy, and formidable PDP structure in Burutu that cannot be shaken by opposition forces.

6. A.O.B: Status of defectors, this was referred because of the legal loopholes and because the NWC is not yet validate the interim LG excos.

 STATUS OF DEFECTORS

The issue regarding the status of defectors was brought up under Any Other Business (A.O.B). After due deliberation, it was acknowledged that while some individuals have defected from the PDP to other parties, their status remains unresolved due to certain legal and procedural loopholes currently under review.

It is important to note that, as of this moment, the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party has not officially validated or ratified the Interim Local Government Excos. Therefore, any action or pronouncement concerning the defectors must be handled with political and legal caution to avoid complications that could jeopardize the party’s standing.

Members are advised to remain calm, focused, and committed to the party, as the appropriate organs of the PDP will soon take a definitive position on these matters. Our priority remains the strengthening of party structures and ensuring loyalty at all levels.

We must not allow the distractions of defectors to derail our consolidation efforts. Instead, let us continue to build with those who are truly committed to the PDP and the future of Burutu L.G.A.

7. Adjournment was raised and Seconded by another

8. Closing prayer was said by Barr. Pele Demebide

PDP... Power to the people!

Power to the people... PDP!!

Burutu PDP! Forward Ever, Backward Never!!!

Thank you and God bless you

In committed service and solidarity,

COMR. JACKSON AGBOR

Acting chairman, People Democratic Party (PDP), Burutu LGA

From:

Burutu LGA PDP Acting Chairman Media Team,

UDOMA PEACE.

Call your youths to Order, IYC tells Olu of ltsekiri over campaign of calumny against Tompolo, Otuaro by ltsekiri nation

PRESS RELEASE

*Blackmail Against Tompolo, Otuaro Illogical - IYC to Itsekiri*

"The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone condemns in strong terms allegations made against High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo and Dr Dennis Otuaro by the Itsekiri Progress Group (IPG) and other faceless groups within the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. 

"Ordinarily, Council would not react to mischievous allegations such as the ones raised by these elements who are frustrated by the outcome of the recent delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, but doing so could allow falsehood to appear as truth.

"To set the records straight, High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) and High Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro are sons and distinguished leaders of Ijaw nation who have contributed immensely to the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his first two years in office.

"It is evidently clear that the efforts of Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has caused the country to attain stable daily oil production volumes. Not only is Nigeria's daily oil output approaching the two million barrels mark, Tantita is leading the charge for environmental cleaningness in the creeks in the face of a heavy degradation occasoned by oil bunkering activities in the past.

"Also, the company has overseen the employment of thousands of youths in the Niger Delta Region, with a huge chunk of that number taken from the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. 

"On the other hand, Dr. Otuaro has reformed the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) from its lost days to an entity of hope and solution to the Niger Delta region, drawing accolades and commendations from the Presidency, NSA and critical stakeholders in the region.

"Council, thus finds it unacceptable that multiple faceless groups under the guise of agitating for a review of the outcome of the delineation exercise would condescend to mischievousness and blackmail against two illustrious sons of the Niger Delta working hard to see that the President succeeds.

"We take full responsibility of the recent Boro Day celebration held in Warri, wherein thousands of Ijaw youths marched across our territories in the city of Warri, in memory of our late Hero, Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro. The event is a yearly ritual for the Ijaw people, and Dr. Otuaro's appearance at the last outing was at the behest of Council, who beckoned on him to make a guest appearance as a critical stakeholder to the body.

"We therefore find it unreasonable and illogical for both Tompolo and Otuaro to be fingered for a joint statement by the Ijaws and Urhobo's calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission to speedily implement its recommended outcome from the delineation exercise, and urging the First Lady not to influence the process as she is mother to all. 

"May we remind the Itsekiri nation that as First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu is mother to the entire country, and not solely owned by the Itsekiri nation. Hence, every Nigerian is obliged to make demands of her, which the Ijaws and Urhobos illustrated through their statement.

"Finally, The Ijaw Youth Council urges the Olu of Itsekiri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and other leaders to call their youths to order and refrain from beating the drum of war in Warri and environs.

"While protest is a right for every Nigerian, the Itsekiris should take a cue from the Boro Day procession organized by the Ijaw Youth Council Western Zone that was peaceful in every way.

"We also condemn actions of the uncontrollable Itsekiri youths who protested in territories outside their jurisdiction, blocked major roads with tyres, destroyed properties, and attacked peaceful Ijaw people; all actions that could lead to retaliation and a breakdown of law and order.

"Council, therefore, urges President Tinubu to order INEC to implement the delineation outcome without any further delays to avert a looming crisis that may impede the progress and success of his administration."

Signed:

Comrade Nicholas Igarama

Chairman, IYC Western Zone 

Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq 

Secretary, IYC Western Zone 

Comrade Tare Magbei 

Information Officer, IYC Western Zone