Opinion: Is Tompolo's Campaign for Tinubu Right?_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

From Tompolo shockers have also come to Nigeria but these shockers vary in their categories and weights. Among many recorded shockers, campaigning for President Tinubu 'morning yet on creation day' is the greatest shocker from Tompolo. Many Nigerians are still in shock over Tompolo's swift morning steps on this path. Must a president who has failed the Niger Delta in designated areas be campaigned for when dawn is still being awaited? Is this the Tompolo we have always idolised, lionised, deified, hero-worshipped and appauded for in every move he makes in the Niger Delta? Could this be the end of Tompolo's mystique and relevance?

Tompolo actually saw hell during the government of President Muhammadu Buhari. He was lied against, ostracised and hunted 24 hours . He lost many valuable things.His own waterfront in Warri was occupied by navy personnell and many valuable items disappeared from the waterfront. Above all the ordeal he was subjected to because of his genuine agitation for development in the Niger Delta, he lost his own father to soldiers who maltreated him in the guise of searching for Tompolo. 

No loss can be greater than the loss of one's dear  father. What about the ordeal the entire Gbaramatu Kingdom was subjected to like condemned criminals?Majorly , Tompolo led an imposed forest life .Tompolo was like Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe on a strange island after a shipwreck. In Tompolo's case the Nigerian national ship captained by  President Buhari got shipwrecked, masterminded by deadly detractors. Shipwrecked, Tompolo had to labour for survival when the captain of the ship had been brainwashed to hunt him  down for no just cause.

It was believed the vindictive search for Tompolo would continue without abatement like a wild forest fire occasionally experienced in Akparemogbene forest. There were key issues Tompolo had often believed passionately and advocated for. Issues like the proper management of the Presidential Amnesty Programme', the establishment of the Maritime University, Okerenkoko, management of maritime security towards eradication of oil theft and pipeline vandalism and the exploitation and underdevelopment of the Niger Delta. These are core development issues that often underpin the agitation of Tompolo. Through agitation, Tompolo channelled all his resources towards the attainment of  developmentally meaningful attention to these issues from the appropriate government institutions.

The 2009 PAP credited to late President Musa Yar Adua was specifically created to move Tompolo away from the forest to work in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the Niger Delta problems.

With the coming to power of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, many thought it was time for Tompolo to embrace his Robinson Crusoe life in the forest again because the president was another creation from the APC government. To the shock of all, President Tinubu showed amazing familiarity with the roots of the Niger Delta problems. In demonstration of his excellent understanding of the Niger Delta problem, he quickly created the space for Tompolo to handle the Niger Delta security through TANTITA Security Services Limited. Today TANTITA has efficiently tackled crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, resulting in high productivity for Nigeria in crude oil production.Tinubu had long been applauded for this approach to maritime security in the Niger Delta.

President Tinubu did not only stop at creating the space for Tompolo to be engaged in maritime security; he also signed into law the bill for the establishment of the Maritime University, Okerenkoko.This alone is commendable because it is among the core issues Tompolo had committed all his resources to over the years in agitation. Tinubu went further to appoint Dr Dennis Otuaro as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The PAP which has today produced deadly detractors and self-acclaimed emperors  was brought into existence purely because of Tompolo's genuine agitation for development. Without Tompolo, there wouldn't have been PAP. This means all beneficiaries of PAP should be eternally grateful to Tompolo instead of strategising to denigrate High Chief Dr  Tompolo and Chief Dr Otuaro. This is the first time the man for whom PAP was created has been fully integrated into the system; yet some idiots wouldn't want the PAP boss to succeed by marketing wrong narratives on the performance of Dr Otuaro and the genuine moves of Dr Tompolo. However Tompolo is deliberately denigrated by idiots, the world knows that the time has come for Tompolo to reap the fruits of his agitation and so he should be left alone to test  his vision for the Niger Delta.

Tompolo's campaign for Tinubu is not a product of syncophancy. The world knows a syncophant by his steps. Tinubu has programmes upon which someone can campaign vigorously for him. Tompolo has failed no one. He is merely showing the Ijaw spirit of gratitude, truth, honesty, firmness, boldness and reciprocity.  The impetuous thinkers calling out Tompolo for campaigning for Tinnubu  would be epistemologically awakened to border-cross to Tompolo's border when they know it was President Tinubu who wisely  engaged the Niger Delta challenges through contractual and appointive engagement of Tompolo and Otuaro besides his notable achievements in key areas of Nigeria's economy. Their epistemological awakening and border-crosssing will be doubled when they know that within two years of Tinubu's government over $50 billion foreign direct investment commitments have been perfected, N70,000 minimum wage payment for civil servants secured, net foreign exchange reserves increased from $3.99 billion to $23.11 billion between 2023 and 2024, over $8 billion investments in oil and gas perfected, five new regional development commissions created, over $800 million got from processing investments in solid minerals development in 2024,  the extermination of over 13,500 terrorists, GDP growth of 3.84 percent seen as the highest in three years, over 440 current road projects and over 2,700 kilometre of super highways in progress, the clearance of over $10 foreign debt, the payment of over 900,000 beneficiaries from the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme, the payment of over three hundred thousand beneficiaries of Students Loan Scheme and the the birth of four new notable Tax Bills.

One good turn deserves another. If President Tinubu has actually addressed the core issues that bothered Tompolo over the years, it is only natural that Tompolo should be reciprocally  good to President Tinubu in  corresponding  terms. Ijaw people are naturally grateful for anything somebody does for them. If Tompolo is on a vigorous campaign for President Tinubu's return journey in 2027, Tompolo is on the right course. Tompolo should even border-cross to any country in the world and campaign for Tinubu if it is geared towards the electoral victory of the president.That Tompolo anchors a vigorous campaign for Tinubu to prepare the ground for his electoral victory in 2027 does no harm to Tompolo's mystique and relevance, neither does it ridicule the principles held by Tompolo for which he is always respected by people in Nigeria and beyond. Only a 'kalabatic' man would crucify Tompolo for his reciprocal campaign for Tinubu, as King Robert Ebizimor would always say. Because Tompolo is not a 'kalabatic' man, he will always deploy his platform to drum up support for Tinubu in the spirit of gratitude as a true blood of Ijaw no matter what ignoramuses may say.

Tinubu tackled the core Niger Delta issues rightly as soon as he came to office and this had been the agel-ong agitation and desire of Tompolo.It was like someone bringing a truckload of water to extinguish a conflagration. Tompolo's freedom agitations were like a conflagration but President has intelligently killed the conflagration. Fire flares and burns no more when it is quenched with a jet of waters. Do people still expect Tompolo to agitate when the conflagration has been doused? Tompolo needs no cautioning for being the anchor of a vigorous campaign for President Tinubu in 2027 because his stand is an echo of gratitude  reciprocally shown to Tinubu for approaching the Niger Delta issues from the right angle without yielding to teleguided instigations that President Buhari mistakenly fell into in his days. Tinubu can fly politically  like the  eagle long as he understands the core problems of Niger Delta and implements policies that guarantee the happiness of the ordinary Nigerians whose demand from their rulers often centres on good governance.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Opinion: Is Governor Oborevwori Qualified for Return Journey?_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

I thought audacity of development was a prerogative of some western rulers. I also thought  audacity of development  was the prerogative of Angels in Delta State. It was the most naive thought from a village boy. I have just been given an educative nudge  that  Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is the author, the master, the doyen of audacity of development.

 Oborevwori's  AUDACITY of development in Delta State is  strikingly structured into four broad categorisations  -  infrastructural development, educational development, human capital development and security wakefulness.  Developmentally,  there are visible markers of Governor Oborevwori's 'lokpo' steps in each of these categorisations. Governor Oborevwori journeys strategically across these four  worlds without being more passionate about one categorisation  than the other. It is like the prescription handed down by a medical doctor to which one sticks firmly like morning snails stuck to date palm trees in Oyangbene in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Infrastructural development demands huge capital outlay. Fully aware of this, the first step of the governor of Delta State was to free the space for funds to flow abundantly. From a worrisome debt profile of N465.3 billion in Delta State, he reduced it to N249.2 billion which indicated a reduction by N216.1 equivalent to 46.4 in percentage. With a freed spaced strategically worked out by Governor Oborevwori which mapped his commitment to debt servicing,  in 2024 he was able to  make available N3.5 billion as a payment for counterpart funding for SUBEB. 

On the strength of his strategic moves towards the creation of the space for funds to be freed for developmental mobility, Governor Oborevwori has on record 513 road projects that include Warri-Effurun flyovers, Ayakoromo bridge, Kwale-Beneku, Orere-Ewu, trans-Warri-Ode Itsekiri bridges and Asaba-Ughelli Express way and many other projects on the  ongoing lane of construction. Drainages of 822.47 kilometres are being constructed in addition to various development projects in Dennis Osadenay University, Anwai-Asaba, Southern Delta University, Ozoro and  Delta  State Teaching Hospital. Besides the well-known special budgetary allocation of N2 billion to every local government area in the state for infrastructural development, Governor Oborevwori has freshly awarded meaningful development projects in the state. This tells in continuum his story of audacity of development.

On the educational development categorisation of the governor, His Excellency Oborevwori has held everybody spellbound with his breathless payment of bursary awards to all students of Delta State origin in higher institutions in Nigeria from 2023 to date, except the 2025 bursary awards about to be paid after the formalities of registration and verification by the Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board. Scholarships have been given to physically challenged students and the children of deceased civil servants of Delta State origin. 

Statistically speaking,  in the 2023/2024 academic session, 759 law students of Delta State origin have benefited from Governor Oborevwori's financial assistance of N82 million naira paid individually to them. 32,028 students of Delta State origin in various institutions of higher learning have also benefited from Governor Oborevwori's  N713 million naira bursary awards in the 2023/2024 session while he has already given approval for payment of bursary awards to Delta students in higher institutions in Nigeria for the 2024/2025 academic session. Governor Oborevwori appears more ideologically situated by his pursuit of his educational vision for Deltans  -  an educational vision over which he has been applauded all over the state.

On the human capital border, Governor Oborevwori has created space for two thousand teachers to be employed in the state based on local government areas. In meaningful partnership with the African Development Bank, the Federal Government and the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture through Special Agricultural Economic Zones, over forty jobs are being created in the state. These developmental efforts and others like bursary payments and SUBEB counterpart funding are strategically rooted in an audacious vision to guarantee human capital development in Delta State.

No meaningful development project can be executed in an environment plagued by insecurity. Moving proactively in this direction, Governor Oborevwori provided fifty-five utility vehicles to the Joint Task Force in the state named Operation Sweep. This is to enhance the capacity of JTF to tackle security  issues in collaboration with the Delta State Waterways and Land Security Committee led by Chief Boro Opudu. Being proactive, the atmosphere required for development projects to sail without any human-made jinx and disruption had long been created by the governor of Delta State.

Even in the provision of health services for Deltans and prudent management of state resources, Governor Oborevwori has distinguished himself by every standard like an eagle that often flies higher than other birds across the length and breadth of the sky. Governor Oborevwori audaciously features in  developmental terms in any aspect of life that brings smiles upon the faces of Deltans.

Two years have gone by since Governor Oborevwori sailed to the Government House from which he daily  watches over Delta State with administrative competence, political sagacity  and vigilance . In all these two years the developmental rhythms from Government House are meaningful and listenable. This is made possible by the governor's audacious touch on core development matters that border on the happiness of Deltans.

Conventional wisdom teaches that a good thing is always kept and treated like a gold. Governor Oborevwori has developmentally become a gold. For the Oborevwori  gold to be mined and used judiciously for the joy of Deltans, the gold mining duration merits  eight years without interruption. For the sustainability of Governor Oborevwori's AUDACITY of development felt in every part of Delta State in infrastructural, educational, human capital and security terms, His Excellency Sheriff Oborevwori must be returned in 2027 without opposition. Since Governor Oborevwori has audaciously proved in two years that he is the embodiment of unbiased all-round development in Delta State, Deltans must audaciously prove in corresponding degree that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is returned to the Government House in 2027 without opposition for a seamless sustainability of his universally applauded audacity of development in Delta State. 

At this moment Governor Oborevwori deserves a graceful apology from those who fought against his democratic emergence as a governor with over fifty cases in various courts out of pure malediction and ignorance. That Governor Oborevwori is one of  the performing governors in the South South geopolitical zone who is developmentally audacious, yet wronged by those who had fought him politically without a just cause, now occupies the lips of every Deltan. Though the governor has forgiven and let go of everything, they should tell the world how wrong they were at that time and affirm their current changed position by being part of the drums for the return journey of Governor Oborevwori in 2027 as this will create the needed space for the sustainability of the governor's audacity of development in Delta State.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Ijaw People: Nigeria’s Aboriginal Water People of Niger Delta.

Compiled by Francis Tayor 

The Ijaw people are the most populous indigenous inhabitants of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.  The Ijaws constitute ten (10) percent (19.8 million) of the national population of Nigeria and are the fourth largest ethnicity within the borders of Nigeria.

The term Ijaw is the anglicised version of Ijo or Ejo.  Other modern variations include Izon (Ijon), Ezon (Ejon) and Uzon (Ujon) meaning the same thing. Other names referring to Ijaw people are Uzo (at Benin), the original ancestral name Oru (in Ijaw and Ibo land) and Kumoni (in Ijaw). These names were applicable through the Niger Delta and environs as noted by early British visitors;

“… The early British explorers applied the curious name “ORU” to the Ijo west of Brass from the Nun entrance to Taylor creek, Dr Baikie said of them in 1854. ‘From the mouth of the river (NUN) up to this point (TAYLOR CREEK), the country on either side is named ORU. The people are of the same tribe as who inhabit the tract of country up to the Rio Formoso where however they are called EJO or OJO by which name they are known at Abo, at Brass and even Bonny, by English palm oil traders. They are often termed Jo-men. Throughout this district but one language is spoken with but little dialectical difference….Dr Bakie does not explain where he got the name Oru as the appropriate term for Ijaw. the word means “a God” in Nembe and it is clear the explorer did not get it from a Nembe source….In 1906 Major Arthur Glyn Leonard listed a number of tribes of the Delta, distinguishing an Oru as well as an Ijo tribe…”The Oru occupy the tract of country on each side of the Nun branch of the Niger and along the coastline between it and the Ramos river. Then in the triangle formed by the Nun and the Gana-Gana, also outside it, to a small extent, both eastward and westward, dwell the Ijo the most important tribe in the lower Delta, and indeed after the Ibo in the whole of Southern Nigeria…”[1]

“..About three hours from Sunday Island, we came to inhabited villages; we induced two canoes to come off, from who we learnt that the people between Brass and Aboh are called Oru…”[2]

“….July 2:…Some of the neighbouring chiefs of Oru came off, with whom we had conversation about legal trade…”[3]

“…November 3: weighed early this morning, and anchored of Agberi, the first Oru village below the Aboh district…”[4]

“…The Oru or Ijo or Udso of Koelle are identical with Brass, at the mouth of the Nun on the coast, otherwise called Hebu or Nempe by their Ibo neighbours. This language is spoken to the extent of 100 miles from the mouth of the Nun, to the boundary of Abo territory: how far inland towards Benin, on the right and towards the Ibo country on the left is yet unknown…”[5]

The original collective names for the ancestors of the Ijos were “Kumoni” and “Oru”, survivals of the ancient terms of “Khem-Anu” or “Khem-Onu”, and “Horu” of the ancient Nile valley civilisations of Khem or Kemetu (ancient Egypt) and Kush (ancient Sudan). The Kumoni-oru derived from ancient Egypt via Ife, while the Oru derived from ancient Sudan. Now the earliest ancestors of the Ijos, the “Orus” or “Tobu-Otu”, migrated from the lake Chad aquatic civilisation of Daima region (c 5000-2000 BCE). Their settlement in the delta was from the earliest of times. Unfortunately not much is known about this period, only that traditionally it is said that these early ancestors “dropped from the sky” (i.e. to say the Orus were of divine origin), and were devotees of spiritual culture that made much use of the waters (hence the mermaid and water people legends “Beni-Otu”) They were later to be joined by other ancestors “Kumoni-Orus” from about 400 CE, and 650 CE (AD), who, after settling first in the Nupe and Borgu regions, then the Ile-Ife region, moved to the Benin region via Nupe, and Ife. In the Benin region they eventually settled and launched expeditions into the Niger Delta, where they came across remote settlements of the Orus, whom they termed “ancient people”. But because they were also ultimately Oru, from the beginning they established communities as one people. The Ijos were known by the two names of Kumoni or Oru up till the time of the 19th century. European visitors noted the name Oru as a distinct term for Ijaw. Likewise the compilers of the Izon/English dictionary noted that “to speak Kumoni is to speak pure Izon language”. The term Ijo (Ijaw) or Izon evolved as the name of the whole ethnic nationality through time, even though as a personal name it derived from one ancestor who was known as Ujo, whom as we have previously mentioned, represents the time when the Ijos evolved as a distinct separate people from their neighbours.

The Formation of the Ijo ethnic nation was a gradual process. We have the period prior to 400 CE i.e. 500 BCE to 700 CE (AD), of which the proto-Ijos or “ancient people” ancestors (Tobu Otu) or Oru settled in the central delta and fused with later immigrants. Then we have the time of; 700-1200 CE (AD), where we have the ancient Kumoni-oru ancestors who came with the ancestor Ujo ultimately from Upper Egypt, migrating through Ile-Ife and other places such as Gbara in Nupe, establishing further settlements at Agadagba-bou in Igbedi creek, and the Nun river in present day Kolokuma Ijo. It was from here that the bulk of the ancient ancestors fused and founded several towns and clans and the beginnings of the Ijaw evolving as a distinct ethnic nationality.

After establishing at Igbedi creek, Ujo sent for more of his people who were at Wari-Ife/Warige and Ujama or Uzama (i.e. Ado or Beni). This was at the very beginning of the foundation of Beni, and it is this account that some traditions mention Benin as a place of origin (also a district around Nupe was also called Beni, founded by the Beni clan of Kumoni, with capital at Gbara);

“…The first place of Ujo’s encampment in his journey from Ile-Ife was the site where Benin City now stands. Then like the Yorubas all the tribes founded by members of Ujo’s retinue and by Ujo himself claimed that place (Benin City) as the place of their original settlement whence they emigrated….”[6]

“…The Origin of the Ijos. There are lots of different opinions about the origin of the Ijos. Some anthropologist say that the Ijos came from South Africa, some say from East Africa. Some say they are from a district around Nupe province in Northern Nigeria and some say that the Ijos came from Benin…. In general the Ijos themselves believe that they came from Benin and in fact most of their traditional stories and folklore refer to Benin. yet we are left to wonder the great difference in language among the Ijos and Benin. If we should assume the belief that the Ijos came from Benin according to the natives it might be that the Ijos left Benin far earlier than any other tribe migrating from Benin….”[7]

The original ancestral settlements founded by the proto-Ijos in the central delta were, Agadagba-bou (first home of Ujo in the central delta), in Igbedi Creek, Isoma-bou along the Nun river, Opuan-bou in the same area, and Orubiribua-bou, also in the same area, and Abo, with its villages, further up the Niger.

When they came and settled in the central delta, the ancestors personified by Ujo, after establishing their authority over preexisting settlements (central delta), instructed an expedition force to go and guard the mouth of the delta and other important places along the coast as stipulated by his father King Adumu. These people became the ancestors of several Izon clans. Keni Opu Ala or Keni-Ala, the holy seer (Asain) of Adumu, the Supreme Intelligence symbolized by the sacred serpent python, was the ancestor who founded Ke or Keni and its daughter towns. Kula and Bille were also founded in this way. Ogulagha and Iduwini, were founded as a result of proto ancestors settling in the western coastal delta, to guard that region. Oguru (alias Kala-Ogbo who gave his name to Warri region (Ogbo Ijo) settled in the area now known as Warri region, these ancestors were to be joined by people from Oporoma. Others such as Kuru, founded the Kru people (they seem to have been proto-Ijos), who eventually migrated to the present day Liberia region, while some ended up settling in present day Ghana region.

After many years of settlement Ujo left his headquarters in Igbedi creek in charge of the Agadagba of Egbesu (military officer), and decided to go back to Otu-Ife. He traveled with nine companions including his grandson Apoi (Opoi) the son of Kala-Okun. Without a skilled astronomer they got lost and decided to settle in a creek near the vicinity of the Nun river. It was here they founded the village of Apoi. Ujo made his permanent home with his grandson Apoi at the quarter now known as Okoto-aja. It was here that he died and was buried. Ujo who was titled Kalasuo, gave the title to his grandson Apoi, since then the rulers of Apoi clan have been titled “Kalasuo”. From the central Apoi, a section migrated to the western delta, to found Apoi Ijo of the Ondo region. Also from the central Apoi, was founded Akassa clan along the coast.

The ancient town of Ujo-Gbaran or Gbaran for short was founded by Gbaran an elder son of Ujo. Gbaran was given the scepter of Ujo on the death of his father. Later on his descendants went and founded the town of Oporo-aja (Oproza) in the western delta region of Escravos, to give birth to the Gbaranmatu and also Arogbo in Ondo area. Children of Ujo, Olodi and Oporo, went and established a common settlement, from which descendants founded Oporoma and Olodiama clans. From Olodiama in central delta, ancestors left to found Olodiama in the western delta near Benin, and also ancestors left to found Olodiamabiri and Onyomabiri and other towns, to form Nembe clan. From Agadagba-bou was also founded Ogbia (Ogbo-Oyan) clan who are the descendants of Oyan. From the same Agadagba-bou, led by Opu-Ogbo, was founded, Isoma-bou or Opuan-bou, from which ancestors later migrated to found, Ekpetiama, and Seimbiri clans.

The last to leave the ancient town of Agadagba-bou, were the ancestors of the Opukuma, Kolokuma, Tarakiri and Andoni. Opu-Okun was the ancestor of the Opukuma, while Kala-Okun was the ancestor of the Kolokuma, both were children of Ujo by the same mother. Tara a younger child of Ujo was the ancestor of the Tarakiri, while Ayama the son of Tara was the ancestor of the Andoni in eastern Ijo,. The Andoni (ruler known as the Andoni-Oru) town of Asarama was founded by Asara or Assa an ancient ancestor descendant of Ayama.. At that remote period most of the ancestors lived in Igbedi creek at Agadagba-bou and the immediate environs of the Nun river. Afterwards their descendants migrated all over the delta. Lastly Abowi, the Asain (seer) of Ujo who led the migration from Otu-Ife or Ile-Ife, journeyed up the river Niger to establish a number of villages which gave rise to Abo and Atani (ruler known as the Atani-Oru). Abo or Aboh and Atani no longer speak Izon language.

Lastly we have the 1200-1600 CE (AD) period; From these early formations and migrations sprang other clans, while at the same time ancestors joined the Ijo of the delta at the beginning of the 12th century up to the 16th century CE or AD when the old Napata kingdom collapsed at Gbara, the Adumu or Oduduwa dynasty was overthrown at Ile-Ife, the last Ogiso Kaladiran, were overthrown at Benin City, and civil strife at Benin caused people to leave. From the central delta Apoi, was founded the Apoi of the western delta area of Ondo. From Oproza town in Gbaranmatu clan was founded at the end of the 15th century, Kabo, Kumbo and Gbaran clans, which was the result of a large family migration from Oproza town about 1480. From Kumbo was founded Okparabe. From Gbaran town in central Izon, was founded Effurun and Uvwie. Efferun a descendant of Gbaran, elder son of Ujo, was the ancestor of the Effurun in upper Warri area, while Owei was the ancestor of the Uvwei. Likewise, from Gbaran was founded via Efferun, the Tuomo clan. From Oporoma was founded the Operemo clan, and some went to join the Ogbos, descendants of Kala-Ogbo to become the Ogbe-Ijo clan. From the Isedani lineage of Kolokuma, led by Opumakuba and Alagbariye (alias Kala-Beni), a migration to the eastern delta coast founded the Ibeni or Ibani clan now known as Bonny early in the 12/13th century. From the Isoma-bou area along the Nun, was founded Obiama, from which came Boma and Ogboin. Izon who lived at Benin city later joined these ancestors. From Benin City, migrated Beni-Izon people who were fleeing the local wars. They founded Obotebe, and Beni (Oyakiri) clans. The ancestor Mein, who was Beni-Izon, i.e. an Izon citizen of Benin, and his family migrated from Benin City because the reigning Oba had started to confiscate the private lands and property for his own use. Mein settled in Igbedi creek and founded the town of Ogobiri. From Ogobiri, was founded the Mein of the western delta. Perebokekalakebari shortened to Kalabari the grandson of Mein was the ancestor who founded Kalabari clan.

Basan, Furupagha and Tungbo was also founded about this time, through ancestors coming from Nupe, Oporoma, Kolokuma and Ke. Other clans include the Buseni and Okodia, who hailed from Kolokuma and Benin-Izon (Ado), Egbema from Iduwini and Operemo. Okirika or Kirikeni hailed from Isoma-bou, Andoni, and Ogboin. Others include the Ndoki, who came from Isedani of Kolokuma, but now speak Ibo, Nkoro or small Okirika, Zarama and Egbema of Imo region, Opobo (1800), who hailed from the house of Opubo of Ibani (Bonny) and Oruma, whose other name is Tugbene hailing from Oboloma. Altogether they constitute the Ijo people who stretch from the eastern shores to the western shores of the Nigerian coast.

References

[1] Alagoa E J (1964) The Small Brave City State, p7.

[2] Crowder S (1970 2nd Edition) Journal of an Expedition Up the Niger and Tshadda [Benue] Rivers undertaken by Macgregor Laird in 1854 – Missionary Research and Travels no.15, p10.

[3] Ibid, p13

[4] Ibid, p194

[5] Ibid, p199

[6] Owonaru S K, op cit, p118.

[7] Neiketien P B (1941) A Short History of Tarakiri Clan, p27.

Learn more about Ijaw History and culture at:

Ijaw World Studies

http://www.ijawworldstudies.com/ijaw-chronology/

History, Culture, Belief and Marriage of the Ijaw People – Pulse.ng

https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel-arts-culture/history-culture-belief-and-marriage-of-the-ijaw-people-id7806101.html

Ijaw People: Nigeria’s Aboriginal Water People of Niger Delta.

Just-ln: Ijalagha Community Distances ltself from ltsekiri Ethnic Nationality, Declares Ancestral Lineage from ljaws of Gbaramatu Kingdom

Francis Tayor

The People of IJaghala Community, originally known as (Zou-Ala Uba) in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, have distanced themselves from ltsekiri ethnic nationality as falsely claimed ownership by some group of persons, stressing that they are Ijaws under Gbaramatu Kingdom.

The public declaration was made on Friday, 13th June, 2025 during a press conference organized by the leadership and people of the community jointly signed by Chief Samuel Eyengho, the Tieyemieowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Mr. Sunday Akpafunolire, Mr. Willson Abeson, youth President, IJaghala Community, Mrs Grace Remere Ukunorisemofe, Mrs Dolor Utseoritse Laju, Mrs Ebi Jolomi and Mrs Mary Usangbajumi respectively at the Egbegha Town Hall, ljalagha (Zuo-Ala Uba) community in ancient Gbaramatu kingdom.

Responding to the press, Chief Eyengho Samuel, the Tieyemienowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom asserted that ljalagha (Zuo-Ala Uba) community have her ancestral lineage from the ljaws of Gbaramatu Kingdom and not ltsekiri ethnic nationality as earlier falsely claimed by  some group of people.

He noted that ljalagha community was founded by Oporoza man named Egbegha, the son of Oweizibiri who later married to an ltsekiri woman from Ugborodo community and gave birth to two children, he stated.

Speaking on behalf of Gbaramatu kingdom, the Fiyeowei of the kingdom, High Chief. Godspower Gbenekama reaffirmed the initial statement of Gbaramatu Kingdom as the original owners of Ijalagha, lkantu, Amadino and Obodo communities, stressing that they will never leave their ancestral homes to any ltsekiri nation.

Gbenekama noted that despite economic reasons as the two ethnic groups trade together over the years does not give ltsekiri people the temerity to lay claim of ljaw communities.

He refers to the ltsekiri people claiming ownership of warri as customary slaves, while calling on the Oba of Benin to come and take his cursed children back to his kingdom.

However, Gbaramatu kingdom has assured ljalagha (Zuo-Ala Uba) people to fastract meaningful infrastructural development to the community in the nearest future, while urging them to be peaceful and law abiding in going about their normal daily business, the Fiyeowei stated.

According to the statement: "We, the undersigned for ourselves and on behalf of the entire people of ljaghala (Zou-Ala Uba) Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, wish to address the press in respect of an age-long

misrepresentation of ljaghala (Zou-Ala Uba) community as an Ugborodo Community

instead of a Community that originated from Gbaramatu Kingdom which was founded

by our ancestors at about the 11th century.

"ljaghala used to be a fishing and palm wine tapping camp of Gbaramatu forebears

before Egbegha was born and prior to the existence of Ugborodo. It has been called

Zou-Ala Uba because of the distance from the entrance to other adjoining creeks and

creeklets.

"Oweizibiri, the father of Egbegha had earlier settled with other ljaw indigenes in Amadino (Omadino) before he left his kinsmen to settle in Ikantu. After several years, Egbegha relocated from Ikantu to Oporoza from where he moved to Zou-Ala Uba and lived permanently.

"Despite the fact that so many great men of Gbaramatu Kingdom

had lived in Zou-Ala Uba and engaged in their natural occupation of fishing, hunting,

and palm wine tapping, Egbegha's permanent stay in Zou-Ala Uba, made him known as the founder of the community. He died as an old man and was buried in Oporoza, the Traditional Hcadquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom. 

After Egbegha had settled at his new found community, he took a wife from Ugborodo by name Erigbawewenimara and the marriage had two children namely

Egogo and Asako. While growing up these children were more closed to their Ugborodo mother who spoke Itsekiri dialect with them. In turn, Egogo also married

Itsekiri women and brought them to ljagbala (Zou-Ala Uba), Egogo through his marriage gave birth to a number of children, who also spoke Itsekiri dialect. 

"This is how the Itsekiri dialect became spoken by some of Ijaghala people and thus the community became affiliated to Itsekiri ethnic group.From the above, without mincing words Ijaghala (Zou-Ala Uba) is an Ijaw community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State. 

"The general Public, Local government, Federal-Government and the International Community should take note that Ijaghala (Zou-Ala Uba) community in Gbaramatu Kingdom is an jaw community and is never, was never and will never be part of

Itsekiri ethnic nationality. 

"This press conference is in tandem with our earlier

publication made by ljaghala elders about the history of ljaghala people publíshed

(Sunday Vanguard Page 20, November 2, 2008).

"To our greatest dismay, some of the descendants of Egbegha and Egogo still engage in alienating their paternal ancestral Gbaramatu land to their maternal Ugborodo Community. 

We strongly condemn the attitudes of these persons which has been causing problems among our kiths and kin in Oporoza community, Gbaramatu

Kingdom and the larger Ijaw nation. 

From the foregoing, we want to categorically state and inform the general public, local, state, federal governments and the international community that Iljaghala

(Zou-Ala Uba) community having an ancestral lineage with Gbaramatu kingdom in

Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State and will continue to affirm and

remain in the traditional institution of Gbaramatu kingdom. 

Finally, we hereby pledge our loyalty and allegiance to His Royal Majesty, Oboro Gbaraun ll (JP), Aketekpe, Agadagba, the Pere of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom", the statement added.

Thank you and God bless.

"Long live Ijoghala (Zou-Ala Uba) community

Long live Gbaramatu Kingdom 

Long live Delta State

Long live Nigeria.

PANDEF congratulates Nigerians on 26 years Democracy, calls on President Tinubu, Akpabio to reinstate Fubara in Rivers State

PANDEF PRESS STATEMENT

REMEMBERING JUNE 12 AND OUR COLLECTIVE CALL TO ACTION IN RIVERS STATE

On this significant day, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) extends our congratulations to all Nigerians as we mark twenty-six years of an uninterrupted democratic journey. We particularly salute President Bola Tinubu, who now has the privilege of leading the nation in commemorating Democracy Day—a day that honors the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, unjustly annulled by the then-military regime. Of note we appreciate the state pardon granted to Ken Saro Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine.

PANDEF notes that the profound meaning of this day in Nigeria's checkered democratic history remains a poignant reminder of our bitter-sweet journey and the urgent need for genuine reflection on our present realities.

Successive administrations at all levels, since the beginning of the Fourth Republic, including those in place at present, have made strides toward delivering the basic socio-economic dividends of democracy. Yet, it remains an arduous and sluggish journey. Of deep concern are the persistent challenges that directly confront ordinary Nigerians especially in the critical areas of access to food, security, primary healthcare, basic education and  unmitigated environmental degradation of the Niger Delta. 

PANDEF notes that most troubling is the glaring contradiction between the noble ideals and enduring legacy of June 12, as symbolized by the sacrifices of  past and surviving heroes and the reality of what can only be described as a creeping authoritarianism in Rivers State. While the nation rightly unites with the President to celebrate Democracy Day, a deeply paradoxical and troubling situation continues to unfold in the strategically important state of Rivers. The people of Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta are being subjected to the erosion democratic institutions and principles of good governance. This portends grave implications for our collective democratic achievements as a country. 

PANDEF therefore calls upon the relevant authorities, most especially, President Bola Tinubu, as the father of the nation, and the National Assembly, led by our own son, Senator Godswill Akpabio to act without delay to restore democratic governance in Rivers State. The prolonged political crisis in the state has created an environment of instability and uncertainty that directly impacts the well-being of everyday citizens.

Additionally, we appeal to all principal political actors and their supporters in Rivers State to immediately "lay down their arms" and embrace the path of peace. As people of common faith, let us be guided by the injunction in Ecclesiastes 3:8:  “There is time to hate and a time to love, a time for war and a time for peace.” The time for love and peace has come, in solemn honor of the memories of the heroes and martyrs of June 12.

As the apex socio-political body in the South-South region, PANDEF reaffirms our commitment to support all genuine, collective efforts aimed at realizing the foundational ideals of our democracy. Most especially, we pledge to champion the urgent return of accountable, people-driven governance in Rivers State.

Sign:

Ambassador Dr Godknows Igali,

National Chairman PANDEF.

Democracy Day: Peter Obi Donates ICT Equipment to Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State

In a continued demonstration of his commitment to education and youth empowerment, former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi has donated 10 brand new computers and 3 printers to Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State.

The donation, presented as part of his nationwide outreach to support public schools with basic learning infrastructure, is aimed at strengthening ICT education and digital literacy among students in the North-East.

Mr. Obi, who has consistently advocated for investment in education as a catalyst for national development, emphasized the importance of equipping young Nigerians with the tools needed to thrive in a technology-driven world.

Access to quality education and digital tools should not be a privilege but a right for every Nigerian child, regardless of location. We must invest in education if we truly want to secure our future,” Obi stated.

The principal of the school, community leaders, and students expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, describing it as a much-needed intervention that would significantly improve learning outcomes.

The donation comes at a time when many public schools in Nigeria, especially in conflict-affected regions like Chibok, continue to struggle with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to modern technology.

Democracy Day: Otuaro salutes Nigerians, urges support for President Tinubu, says great nations are built through sacrifice and patience

My dear people of Delta State, and fellow Nigerians,

At this crucial moment in our nation’s journey, I come to you not only as a former Deputy Governor but as a fellow patriot who shares in your dreams, concerns, and unyielding hope for a better Nigeria.

In the face of challenges, we must not lose sight of the progress being made and the intentional efforts of our President, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to lay a solid foundation for a stronger, prosperous nation. His administration is deeply committed to eradicating poverty, rebuilding our economy, and securing a brighter future for all Nigerians—north, south, east, and west.

This is not the time for despair or division, but for unity and prayerful support. The Word of God instructs us in 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV):

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

I therefore call on every Deltan and every Nigerian to join hands in prayer and support for President Tinubu and his team. Let us give them the benefit of our trust, the strength of our encouragement, and the blessing of our faith.

Let us remember—great nations are not built in silence or cynicism, but through collective sacrifice, patience, and unwavering hope. With your support and God’s guidance, I am confident that this administration will lead us to a new dawn where opportunities abound, peace prevails, and every Nigerian can thrive.

Together, let us believe again. Let us build again. Let us rise again.

God bless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

God bless Delta State.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

H.E. Dcn. Kingsley B. Otuaro, immediate Past. Deputy Governor, of Delta State.

INEC: Gbenekama calls for speedy implementation of ward delineation report, says delay not in interest of peace

Worried by the delay of the Independent National Electoral Commission's, INEC, towards the implementation of its ward delineation report, Chief Dr. Godspower Gbenekama, the Fiyewei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in the Warri South-West council area of Delta State, has called on the electoral body to conclude its work while cautioning that such delay is not in the interest of peace.

The Fiyewei made the call during a media chat with members of the Ijaw Publishers' Forum, IPF, at his private residence in Effurun, on Monday, June 9, 2025.

Gbenekama, who noted that there is no crisis in Warri, challenged the Federal Government to do the needful for INEC to complete its work as delay is creating rooms for anarchy.

"These noises that the Federal Government is listening to is not in the favour of peace," Gbenekama said in reference to the opposition from the Itsekiri against the INEC report of the concluded ward delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency.

"Niger Delta kings especially the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, has been going round the region with other kings to sustain the peace. Those that can sustain peace, if not properly handled, can bring about violence," the Fiyewei cautioned over the continued delay of implementation of INEC's report.

"So, what the Itsekiri elements are saying should not be taken serious. It is very clear that if you are enjoying something with trickery, and when the truth comes out, you are bound to fight because food has been taken from your table.

"The Itsekiri are a sinking boat that is grappling for anything to float. We, Ijaw people of Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Egbema, Diebiri, Isaba, are not taking them serious because we are not ready to fight. It is peace we want and we will continue to maintain peace.

"The government should do what is necessary so that INEC can conclude their work. The delay of INEC work is not in the interest of peace," he cautioned.

The Fiyewei further sued for peace in the region but warned those that are tinkering with the idea to foment trouble to desist henceforth.

"We are outstretching our hands of fellowship to the Itsekiri people, let's them leave us in peace. We have informations that some elements thinking of attacking pipelines to discredit Tompolo. Let it be said that nobody at this time can discredit Tompolo and Tantita. Many of the Ijaw and Itsekiri would have died if not for Tantita," he noted.

Featured Article: The Re-Echoing Voices of the "Last Titans", Chief Edwin Clark (1927-2025) and Pa Ayo Adebanjo (1928-2025)_By: Godknows Igali

Prologue

Beyond the mere platitudes associated with longevity of earthly sojourn, late Chief E.K. Clark (97 years) and late Pa Ayo Adebanjo (96 years) exemplified extraordinary service to Nigeria and the generation they lived in. Their lives, separated at death by just three days, were marked by courage, resilience and a commitment to justice, unity and excellence; values that should profoundly shape Nigeria’s national journey.

In both public and private spheres, these two patriots consistently stood for what was right, often prioritizing collective interests above personal gain. Both lawyers, both bosom friends, both great nationalists, both nonagenarians and both defenders of the greatest virtue of patriotism, their lives typified the saying:

“a lion-hearted person is not one who is fearless but one who faces what others fear with courage and determination.”

These two men, now referred by some as “the last of the titans” among Nigeria’s founding political figures (excluding still-living Alhaji Tanko Yakasai and Pa Reuben Fasoranti, both set to clock 99 this year) were men of deep kindness, empathy, and integrity. It is no surprise that upon their recent deaths, several leading Nigerians averred that the country was actually interring great monuments of its very nationhood. It was somewhat, the nunc dimictis   of the country’s foundational ethics, ideals and standards that will be remembered for no few generations to come.

Amongst others, Nigeria’s current leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well as former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan notably acknowledged both men as among the country’s greatest sons, praising their courage and invaluable contributions to the nation's growth. While often seen as ideological twins, both men still had distinct personalities shaped by their backgrounds, upbringing, and life paths.

THE EDWIN CLARK STORY

A Legacy of Strong Patriarchy and Enterprise

While the world witnessed a major aviation milestone in which an historic transatlantic flight that set an unofficial record for the highest altitude reached by a human being in a balloon on Wednesday May 25, 1927, same day in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government of Delta State, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark was born into a lineage of wealth, leadership and activism. His family background placed him in a blood line of the elite going 150 years back to post-slavery pre-colonial entrepreneurial interplay of power and wealth. As once famous “Legitimate Trade” replaced the Trans-Atlantic slave economy in mid-19th century, notable Nigerian figures such as King Jaja of Opobo, Oba Ovoranwen of Benin, Chief Nana Olomu of Itsekiri, King Koko of Nembe and Obi Ossai of Aboh and their like emerged as frontline traders and political actors in Southern Nigeria, then known as “Oil Rivers”. In that generation, Clark’s great grandfather, named Chief Ambakaderemo Ogein and later his direct grandfather, Chief Fuludu Bekederemo, also stood out, owning the only major African-operated steamship, noted by British intelligence reports in the 1920s. Actually, a number of British colonial records indicated that the palace of these progenitors in Kiagbodo was, at the time, ranking in size and opulence next to that of the Oba of Benin.

In terms of political power, his grandfather, Fuludu Bekederemo, besides mercantilism, was also a leading figure who represented the Ijaw people of the western delta at the famed Ibadan Constitutional Conference of 1950-51, convoked to discuss the future of Nigeria as a prelude to the Macpherson Constitution of 1951. Chief Clark’s direct father was simply named as "Clark," due to the fact that he became the bookkeeper of the family business, having acquired some level of western education. Hence, focused heavily on educational development of all his sizeable number of children including literary giant, Prof. J.P. Clark, ace diplomat, Amb. B.A. Clark, several top military officers, including Gen. Henry Clark and at least five professors, being testament to a family driven by the pursuit of excellence and national services.

Sustained Public Service

As the first son, coming down four generations, Edwin Kiagbodo often known by his peers and friends as “EK” embodied the spirit of his forebears. A natural leader, he inspired all his siblings and entire community from an early age. He could not continue at the famed Government Grammar School, Ughelli, founded in 1945, like his siblings and other prominent people from the area due to age. But in 1949, he enrolled at nearby Teacher Training College, Abraka, and on graduation, taught across Warri division, shaping a generation of future Nigerian leaders.

Inspired by the subsequent success of his two younger brothers’ (J.P and B.A.) at University College Ibadan in the 1950’s, and ever aspiring for the golden fleece, Pa EK pursued law studies in the United Kingdom in 1961, and was eventually called to the Bar at Inner Temple in 1964. While studying in the UK, he led Africans, especially law student bodies, reinforcing his roots as a pan-African advocate.

Midwest and National Roles

Returning to Nigeria in 1964 during the political turmoil in the Western Region, Chief Clark soon emerged as a key figure in the newly created Midwest Region, starting with advisory roles under first Military Governor, Col. (later General) David Ejoor and later Col. (later General) Samuel Ogbemudia as Commissioner. Placed in charge of Education and Finance, he led efforts to expand educational infrastructure, especially in coastal and rural areas of then Midwest State (now Delta, Edo and parts of Bayelsa State).

With the support of his Governor, Dr. Ogbemudia, Chief Clark also championed institutional upgrading of the Auchi Polytechnic which was established since 1963 and started the Midwest Institute of Technology (now University of Benin). He also extended hand of help to revitalize war-ravaged South East schools such as Queen’s School Enugu and the University of Nigeria Nsukka. At even wider level, he played the driving role in galvanising educational support and exchanges of science teachers and students with the states of northern Nigeria in the aftermath of the civil war.

More importantly, with his later elevation as a Federal Commissioner (Minister) of Information under the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, he contributed remarkably to the sensitization of Nigerians to the "Three Rs" policy - Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction. He also helped in negotiating the formation of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), traveling across West Africa to secure support. He is acknowledged by many as one of the most loyal ministers who worked under General Gowon.

Political Influence and Advocacy

With the planned return of Nigeria to democratic rule since after the military coup of 1966 and the civil war which ended in 1970, Chief Clark became a founding member of the most prominent political organization at the time, National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1978 and was later elected Senator under its platform in 1983. Thereafter, he maintained influence across successive military regimes which ruled Nigeria one after the other. Later, he was a vocal figure in the 2005 National Political Reform Conference convened by former President Obasanjo. It is easily recalled that when his advocacy for Niger Delta interests was thwarted in that 2005, he staged a walkout, reinforcing his non-conformist reputation. This was notwithstanding the fact that the Chairman of that conference was Justice (Prof.) Nikki Tobi, fellow Ijaw man from his home base. In 2014, he equally became a prominent figure in the 492 member National Conference convoked by President Jonathan.

As the leading elder statesman of Niger Delta origin, Chief Clark, joined other prominent persons, and founded several groups culminating in the umbrella Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in 2016 and later the Southern Nigeria and Middle Belt Forum. This latter body was focused on creating a unified voice for the South-South, South-East, South-West and Middle Belt (SMBLF) sections of the country. Under these groups, his legacy includes advocacy for equitable resource distribution, restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system, and promoting education across all regions.

In 2014, he founded the Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, now regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading private institutions at the tertiary level. Chief Clark passed away on Monday February 17, 2025 and was mourned by a nation that saw in him a true lion who fought relentlessly for justice in good conscience and courage.

BRIEF ACCOUNT ON PA SAMUEL AYODELE ADEBANJO

The Torchbearer of Awoism

Pa Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo was regarded as a true celebration of the worthy indigenous political philosophy of “Awoism”. So, his life was a reminiscence of the known fact that, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former Premier of the Western Region, remains rated as Nigeria’s most unfulfilled Head of State. His ideological doctrine, Awoism, emphasized social welfare, education, justice and cultural advancement. Among his most ardent disciples was Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who upheld these ideals with unwavering commitment until his death on Friday 14th February, 2025.

Born on Friday April 10, 1928, in Ijebu Ogbu Oke, now in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, to a very strict Christian father and a Muslim mother, Pa Adebanjo therefore embodied tolerance, discipline, and defiance from a young age. Though frequently in trouble from the incipient days of life on account of his unbending demeanour, his brilliance and charm usually rescued him and made him to stand out at all times.

Legal Pursuits and Political Awakening

Educated at primary and secondary schools in the 1930s/1940s in Lagos, Pa Adebanjo went to the United Kingdom for legal studies and was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1961 (sister body to Chief Clark’s own Inner Temple). After his law studies, he returned to Nigeria at the vortex of Western Region’s politics and became a key figure in the Action Group, a party driven by Chief Awolowo’s vision, of which he was a founding member in 1951.

Though Chief Adebanjo never held elective office, he was a formidable party strategist within his regional political biosphere. From the Action Group (AG), founded in 1951 to Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded in 1978, Alliance for Democracy (AD), founded in 1998 and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) founded in 2006, he was central to candidate selection and “progressive” ideological pursuit. His influence was such that he was considered amongst the intellectual forte behind what some termed the "Ijebu Mafia" in Yoruba politics which produced some of Nigeria’s most outstanding political leaders and professional class.

Moral Stature and National Influence

More than a kingmaker, Pa Adebanjo was a principled advocate for truth and justice at the national space. He was equally a fierce critic of military dictatorship and a defender of the June 12, 1993 democratic mandate of Chief Moshood Abiola after the Presidential election of that year. In this regard, he co-founded with others the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), enduring imprisonment and harassment on several occasions, but remained doggedly unruffled. Deservedly, his refusal to compromise on core ideals and non-conformist principles made him a rare gem within Nigeria’s political landscape and elevated him as a seeming patron of the activist and civil society community.

Following the 2008 demise of Senator Abraham Adesanya as leader of the Yorubas and the Awoism political mantra, Pa Reuben Fasoranti and later, Pa Adebanjo assumed leadership of Afenifere, the flagship Pan Yoruba movement they founded in 1953. Later on, another socio-political group, the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), was co-founded by Pa Adebanjo along with Chief Clark, with a mandate on championing restructuring, true federalism and co-hosting national rallies across the country. Until his death, Adebanjo remained an indomitable force for the reign of equity, democracy, national politics and Yoruba cultural pride realism.

BRIEF CRITIQUE

Though widely mourned by all of Nigeria, Chief Clark and Pa Adebanjo were not without criticism in some quarters. For instance, some labelled both of them as ethnic champions, that is an Ijaw/Niger Delta leader and Yoruba/Ijebu protagonist respectively.

However, in true historical realism, such portrayal of these great men ignores their  altruistically nationalalistic worth on core issues  which spanned over 70 years. Besides countless instances of their activism and contributions to the enthronement of fair play and justice in national politics. There are countless examples, but a particular case stood out remarkably in recent times. Towards the end of their lives, that is during the 2023 Presidential election in Nigeria, both men staunchly supported the effort towards what became termed an “Igbo Presidency”. Standing on the gravamen of their argumentations on fairplay, they averred and strongly so, that no Nigerian of Igbo origin has been privileged to rule the country since after Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s (1960-1966) and the brief six-month military rule by General Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi (January – July, 1966). Yet, the Igbos as critical stakeholders of the Nigeria do contribute substantially to national development.

Accordingly, these two elderly activists at personal levels, backed the Presidential ambition of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, over and above incumbent President Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate who is a fellow citizen from the South West as Pa Adebanjo. This was a similar scenario as the ambition of former Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as Vice Presidential candidate under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the home base of Chief Clark who was even a founding member of the PDP. Coincidentally, both President Tinubu and Governor Okowa considered Pa Adebanjo and Chief Clark as their respective political fathers. But both old men argued that their volte face was not out of self-deprecation or own group exclusionism; but on principles.

At another level, some others questioned and took umbrage at their frequent and rabid public interventions on all manner of issues late in their lives. In particular, in what appeared like synchronized outbursts, they remained vocal against policies of successive governments which they considered “anti-people” both at federal and sub-national levels.

Similar to the earlier view, it is a known fact that their vocal advocacy in these latter years was not new, but was a continuation of decades of loud voices on national issues. Chief Clark’s pan-Nigerian activist push, especially as it pertained to the Niger Delta and the Ijaw ethnicity, and Pa Adebanjo’s own federalist obsession, both began early and endured to the end. Indeed, while Pa Adebanjo leaned left in ideological terms, Chief Clark was a nonconformist centrist, perhaps blended in some form with compassionate capitalism. But both were passionate and principled agitators for the common good and the rebirth of a greater and better Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This is one moment that one common aphorism easily comes to mind, - “great nationalists do more than serve”. Actually, such lives provoke greatly beneficial public thoughts, demanding justice, and inspiring others to the best of causes. Chief Clark and Pa Adebanjo epitomized these traits and were unapologetic about them throughout life. For them, true patriotism meant challenging bad governance whether in jack-boots, in flowing “agbada” or adorning a round domed bowler hat. Their deeper, inner stimulus always vetted on defence of the nation’s soul and the general welfare of the entire population. It did not matter which part of Nigeria was affected, they fought loud and clear for pursuit of sterling ideals.

Now, going forward, one big question that re-echoes in the national discourse is, who will fill their shoes? Fill shoes??

Perhaps no single person can easily assume such roles as their lives’ footprints are simply intimidating. But the nation needs not be perturbed because the true worth of life is not about filling the shoes of great men; rather, it is about each individual on earth making their marks following certain truths and ideals. Importantly, the values handed down through public interventions of men, like our two heroes, their writings and personal idiosyncrasies ingrained in the consciousness of their families, followers and friends. Surely these will endure for generations. So, their lives were not mere biographies but national templates for all who are alive today and will come to follow in succession. As the American philosopher John Hancock once put it:

“Patriots indeed die, but patriotism speaks.” forever. 

Certainly, both Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo may be gone, but their voices fierce and unrelenting as they were, will continue to speak loudly across Nigeria for a long time to come.

Rest on, dear daddies.

Dr. Igali, National Chairman, PANDEF is author of the 2015 ‘US Books Sterling Gold Prize for Literary Excellence ‘ Winning Book, “Perspectives on Nation, State Formation in Contemporary Africa”

Just-ln: Fiyeowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Godspower Gbenekama Bags PenGlobal Brand Influencer Award of the Year

The Fiyewei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, High Chief Amb. Dr. Godspower Gbenekama (JP), has been awarded the PENGlobal Brand Influencer Award in recognition of his contributions and support to the business and social brand promotional agency, PENGlobal.

The Brand Influencer Award was presented by Comrade Ozobo Austin, President of the Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) on behalf of the Brand Director of PENGlobal, Mr. Abai Francis, to the recipient at his private residence on Monday.

According to PENGlobal Brand Director, tne choice of Brand Influencer arose from the Fiyewei's encouraging and supportive roles, especially behind the scenes, towards the growth of the PENGlobal brand."

He also added that it is the brand's way of showing its appreciation to the High Chief for his "godly counsel, active participation via engagements, and recommendations, which greatly have propelled us to be where we are currently and which also offers us more room for growth."

In his response, High Chief Gbenekama thanked the PENGlobal Brand for the honour on the occasion of the award.

He urged the Brand Director to not relent but to put in more efforts especially to avail his platform for the promotion of factual contents.

Also in attendance during the award presentation are Pastor Arex Akemetubo (CEO, Waffy TV), Prince Dr. Peretengboro Klintin Bibaikefie (CEO, IduwiniVoice) and Comr. Tare Magbei (CEO, Daily Report).

High Chief Gbenekama is among the fifteenth recipients penned down to receive the PENGlobal awards which were aimed at recognising their positive achievements towards the betterment of the society and contributions to the growth of the PENGlobal brand.

2025 France Ocean Rise and Coastal Summit: lNC President, Okaba highlights its implications for economic and environmental sustainability in ljawland

*Coastal Resilience, Policy, and Governance: Implications for Economic and Environmental Sustainability in Ijawland.*

Being an Address by Prof. Benjamin O. Okaba, President of Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global, on the Occasion of the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit, at Nice, France, on the 7th of June, 2025.

His Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Esteemed Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen, I bring felicitations from the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw people, one of the four largest ethnic nationalities of Nigeria.

I stand before you today on the occasion of the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit 2025 (holding in Nice, France) to address a critical issue that affects our very essence and existence as a people: As the President of the Ijaw National Congress, I consider it important to highlight the implications of these issues for economic and environmental sustainability in Ijaw Land, at this important platform.This is inspite of our natural endowment experience as master mariners .

The Ijaw Reality

As an indigenous nation living in the Niger Delta, we are no strangers to the devastating impacts of climate change, environmental degradation, and oil pollution. Our people have borne the brunt of extractive exploitation, with our lands, waters, and ecosystems scarred by decades of neglect and abuse since 1956/1958, when oil and gas was first discovered in commercial quantities in Oloibiri in Ogbia Local Government Area of the present Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Rising sea levels, ocean surges, and flooding events threaten our very existence.

The Challenges We Face

Ijaws occupy over 60% of the entire Nigeria coastline, from the literal indigenous ljaw communities on Akwa lbom, Rivers Delta, Ondo, and Lagos States in Nigeria. Infact ,the ocean and it's divers marine and it's acquatice resources defines the ljaw identity livelihood systems and heritage Our communities are on the frontlines of climate change, facing rising sea levels, storm surges, and environmental degradation. The impacts are far-reaching, from damage to infrastructure and livelihoods to threats to our very way of life. We have seen our mangrove forests, a vital component of our ecosystem, being destroyed, and our fisheries being depleted. Our people are struggling to cope with the loss of their livelihoods and the degradation of their environment.

The Impact on Our Economy

The impact of climate change and environmental degradation on our economy is significant. Our fisheries, agriculture, and tourism sectors are all vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The damage to our infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings, is also a significant concern. We need to take immediate action to mitigate these impacts and ensure the long-term sustainability of our economy, but not without support from the national and international communities.

The Importance of Coastal Resilience

Coastal resilience is critical to the survival of our communities. We need to take a proactive approach to managing our coastal resources, protecting our infrastructure, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. This includes investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting ecosystem-based adaptation, and supporting climate-resilient livelihoods.

Our Demands

We demand that policymakers and stakeholders at national and international levels prioritize coastal resilience, policy, and governance that supports the needs of our communities through the instrumentality of:

1. Integrated Coastal Management: Developing plans that balance economic, environmental, and social objectives. We need to ensure that our coastal management plans are integrated, inclusive, and sustainable.

2. Climate Change Adaptation: Supporting initiatives that help us adapt to the impacts of climate change. We need to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, promote ecosystem-based adaptation, and support climate-resilient livelihoods.

3. Community Engagement: Ensuring that our communities are actively involved in decision-making processes. We need to ensure that our communities are at the forefront of decision-making and that their voices are heard.

4. Leveraging on Indigenous Knowledge and Technology: We need to review and update the existing indigenous capacities to be able to meet up with current challenges.lnfact a bottom -up approach is most promising.

Our Call to Action

We call upon the global community to recognize the unique challenges faced by coastal communities like ours. We seek solidarity, not charity. Coastal resilience must be built on justice, equity, and the recognition of our rights as indigenous peoples. We demand:

1. Direct access to climate finance for subnational entities and local communities.

2. A UN Convention for the Conservation of River Deltas, recognizing the specific needs and challenges of deltaic regions.

3. Technological partnerships to support our efforts in mangrove restoration, early warning systems, and integrated coastal zone management.

4. South-South cooperation between deltaic states, sharing knowledge and best practices.I would advise that the Governor's of Akwa lbom,Bayelsa,Cross Rivers, Ondo and Lagos States should domestic the ideals of the Global initiative for the fight against the menance of  Climate Change and collaborate amongst themselves as regional partners and collaborate with the relevant international agencies. Systemic climate adaptation and environment integrity would be easier actualized with dignity.

We call upon all stakeholders to join us in this effort. Let us work together to build a more resilient and sustainable future for Ijawland. We will not be deterred by the challenges we face. We will rise, and we will thrive. We need to take immediate action to address the impacts of climate change, promote sustainable development, and protect our environment.

Our Commitment

The INC reaffirms our commitment to building resilience, providing  sustainable development and protecting the right of the people This position is it n line with our persistent resolve on Self determination and control of our God given  Water and Land resources. We are committed to promoting the interests of our people and protecting our environment. We will continue to advocate for policies and practices that support our communities and ensure a sustainable future. We will work with policymakers, stakeholders, and our communities to develop and implement effective coastal management plans, support climate change adaptation initiatives, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that coastal resilience, policy, and governance are critical to the survival and prosperity of our communities. We need to take a proactive approach to managing our coastal resources, protecting our infrastructure, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. I urge all stakeholders to join us in this effort and to work together towards a more resilient and sustainable future for Ijaw Land. 

Thank you.

Just-ln: Itsekiri youths plan attack on oil pipeline in Delta against Tompolo reveals, as N'Delta group urge FG, security agents to go after them

The Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI has alleged that some suspected individuals in Itsekiri nation were planning to blow up pipelines in Warri South West and Warri North to incite the Federal Government to terminate the surveillance contract from TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited.

The alarm was raised by its national president Comrade Ozobo Austin in a statement issued and forwarded to newsmen in Warri, Delta State on Sunday.

According to the statement, "the plot was to incite the federal government against High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo and Tantita services Nigeria limited to terminate the contract, adding that the move was misguided and could have conspired by suspected Itsekiri miscreants. 

The statement reads, "Our attention has drawn to move by suspected Itsekiri miscreants sponsored by the highly placed leaders to vandalize pipelines in Warri South West and Warri North to incite the Federal Government to terminate the surveillance contract from TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited.

"The plot is to incite the federal government against Tompolo and Tantita services Nigeria limited to terminate the contract.That is a misguided conspiracy of suspected Itsekiri miscreants. 

"The security agents and the federal government should take notice of this report and hold accountable Itsekiri leadership for any attack on oil facilities in Delta State. 

"It is obvious that Tantita's efforts to get rid of the oil theft in Niger Delta have been thwarted severally by the Itsekiris. Itsekiris were still harboring and promoting oil theft under the covers of ethnicity, threats and campaign of calumny against Tantita. The Navy and JTF have discovered many of such nefarious activities in the Itsekiris territories in Delta State. They are creating bad impressions about Tompolo Tantita operations.

"I want to state unequivocally that there is nobody that can do the pipeline security job as Tompolo does. Those plotting such evils are enemies of the Nigerian government. The Government should not allow enemies of the current government to deceive them"