Smooth urges Urhobo, Itsekiri and Ijaw nations to unite behind Tantita, as Niger Delta group present Tantita's impressive scorecard

Francis Tayor

Ijaw highlife music maestro and the paddle of Niger Delta, Chief. Barrister Smooth has once again called on the various tribes in the Niger Delta region, especially the Urhobos, ltsekiris, ljaws, lsokos and others to rally round Tantita security services Nigeria Limited over the impressive performance of the oil pipeline security company over the few years in the region.

Smooth made the remarks in warri during the courtesy call by Save the Niger Delta Group passing a Vote of Confidence on Tantita as 'Top Security Company in the Niger Delta'  citing Impressive Scorecard. 

Smooth described Tantita security company as a game changer by meaningfully transforming many lives from poverty to riches, safeguarding our once bastardized environment and watersways by the activities of illegal oil bunkering among other nefarious pipeline vandalism by oil thieves

He said Urhobo, ljaw and ltsekiri nations are one, let's unite and be a brothers keeper in order to move the state forward in particular, and Niger Delta region at large.

In their presentation, the Group whose membership cuts across Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom states led by its national President, Mr. Gesikeme Akparakata lauds  the top Security firm in the Niger Delta for its Humanitarian projects in its front burner. The Group with the overall interest of the people and tribes presented a Scorecard harnessing and re evaluating the company's activities in the fight against pipeline vandalism, Sea piracy and illegal oil Bunkering in the Niger Delta. 

The Group Secretary Elum Oghenevwede from the Urhobo tribe appreciates Tantita for its all inclusive employment schemes and the beautiful Infrastructures brought to Urhobo land. 

In her remarks Mrs Enobun Abu from Akwa Ibom cannot hid her feelings for the overwhelming impact TANTITA has brought to the Niger Delta beyond tribal lines. 

The Group Woman Leader Mrs Princess Ogbotimibo expressed her joy with a song that High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo has always had both the women, the orphans, the widows and the old, under his payroll, not to mention the many beneficiaris of business entrepreneurs raised by Tantita under the leadership of the most benevolent Engr Kestin Pondi. She prays for the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to hand over the security business of the Niger Delta to Tantita to solidate the stability and peace it has brought thereby stabilizing the country's economy. 

In closing, Pastor Frank Bideke prays for Chief Barrister S Smooth as the only unifying voice in the Niger Delta with his song  WA MO BO let's live as one!

Delta Bursary Board Endorses NUIS Campus Tour, as Agediga Reaffirms Student Support Initiatives

The Chairman, Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board, Comrade Shedrack Agediga, hosted the leadership of the National Union of Izon-lbe Students (NUIS) in a meeting focused on advancing student welfare and educational advocacy.

During the visit, NUIS unveiled its Campus Tour Program, aimed at tackling social vices like cultism and drug abuse, while promoting academic excellence across tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

In response, Comrade Agediga commended the initiative and reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive educational support. He highlighted key programs under the Delta state bursary and scholarship board including:

• Bursaries for students in public and private institutions

• Scholarships for law school candidates and students with disabilities.

• Support for children of deceased civil servants.

• Awards for first-class and specialized students.

• Postgraduate scholarships and support.

Agediga emphasized that Delta state bursary is for all eligible delta state students and doesn't operate on ethnic quarter system. 

The Chairman pledged full support for the NUIS tour, calling for impactful messaging to steer students away from vices and toward purpose-driven lives.

Late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni for burial on 9 August, 2025 at Ogbe-ljoh Warri Kingdom

Francis Tayor 

The remains of late Mrs/Evangelist. Rosemary Oromoni, the wife of Hon. Chief Sylvester Oromoni, the Executive Chairman Warri South West LGA and the mother of late Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, the Dowen College student who died under controversial circumstances in 2021 after he was allegedly bullied by fellow students would be committed to mother earth at her husband's compound in Ogbe-ljoh Town, headquarters of Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State on the 9th August, 2025.

She died at the age of 57, leaving behind her husband, children, grandchildren, sisters brothers and many relatives.

According to the burial programme signed by Hon. Ebike Oromoni for the family and Keyness Oromoni for the children, stated as follows:

_Thursday 7th August, 2025: Night of Tribute at the family compound by Estate, opposite Oasis Hotel, Warri.

_Friday 9th August, 2025: Funeral Service at Ogbe-ljoh Town, headquarters of Warri South-West LGA.

Reception follows immediately after interment at the family compound by Estate, opposite Oasis Hotel, Warri.

Mrs Oromoni died in November 2024, three years after her son's tragic death. Reports say she battled depression and high blood pressure following the loss of her son and the long legal fight that followed.

Her son, Sylvester, became the centre of national attention after his death in November 2021. His family claimed he was beaten and forced to drink a toxic substance by seniors at Dowen College, Lagos. The school denied the claims, saying he got injured while playing football.

The case dragged for years with multiple autopsies giving conflicting reports. While an earlier autopsy suggested chemical poisoning, a Lagos coroner later ruled that Sylvester died of natural causes from sepsis. The students accused were eventually cleared, and no one was held responsible.

The Oromoni family, unhappy with the outcome, refused to bury their son for over two years. He was eventually laid to rest in Warri in January 2024. Just months later, his mother passed away.

Mulade to Chair Congress Newspaper 4th Anniversary on 10th July, in Warri, as Omare, Ekanpou, Mulu to Appear as Dignitaries

The Congress Newspaper, along with its online television station, is excited to announce its 4th anniversary celebration taking place on Thursday, July 10th, 2025 in Warri , Delta State, Nigeria.

The event will honour personalities with track records with awards, this included lectures with the Theme: "Entrenching accountability in governance, with lecture topic: "Strengthening institutions and legislations to prevent graft in governance".

The event would be Chaired by Chief Sheriff Mulade, national coordinator of CEPEJ, Special Guest of Honor, Barr Eric Omare, former IYC president, Guest of Honor, Mr Mulu Anthony, MD/CEO SILVER CONTINENTAL GLOBAL VENTURES LTD and Keynote speaker, Enewaridideke Ekanpou, writer and Publisher.

However, the news firm warmly invites members of the public and esteemed guests to attend the historic event, which promises to be a memorable, filled with entertainment, networking opportunities, and a look back at the newspaper's impactful contributions over the past four years.

Since its inception in 2021, the Congress Newspaper has established itself as a trusted source of news and information, focusing on serving its readers with quality journalism and in-depth analysis of current events. The accompanying online television station has also expanded its reach, providing visual storytelling and coverage of significant happenings within the Niger Delta and beyond.

“Our anniversary is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a celebration of Niger Delta story telling,” said Sir Ozobo Austin, Editor-in-Chief of the Congress Newspaper. “We are grateful for the continued support from our readers and viewers, and we look forward to a great moment of reflection, gratitude, and excitement for what lies ahead.”

However, the Congress Newspaper invites everyone to join in this milestone celebration and to continue supporting ethical journalism.

Nigeria House of Reps Seek to lncrease National Assembly Members from 469 to 552 to Ensure Regional Balance

The House of Representatives has proposed a constitutional amendment to allocate 10% of seats in the National Assembly for women and 5% for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

This proposal, announced by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on Tuesday during the official opening of the 2025 National Assembly Open Week and the launch of the 10th House Midterm Legislative Scorecard in Abuja, aims to embed these quotas in the Constitution for long-term inclusion.

Under this framework, 83 new seats would be created: 55 in the House of Representatives (increasing its size from 360 to 415) and 28 in the Senate (bringing the National Assembly’s total to 552 seats).

Speaker Abbas explained that these reserved seats for women would be filled through direct elections on separate ballots and distributed by state to ensure regional balance. For PWDs, 5% of existing seats would be reserved, with candidates nominated by accredited disability advocacy organizations.

Those elected to these reserved seats would have equal rights and responsibilities as other legislators.

Abbas emphasized that this reform is long overdue, noting that women’s representation has stagnated despite constituting half the population.

He cited global examples like Rwanda and Senegal, where constitutional quotas significantly increased female representation.

Just-ln: Bill to Establish Federal Oil and Gas Hospital in Benikrukru, Delta State Scales Second Reading in Senate

Abuja___ A bill seeking to establish the Federal Oil and Gas Hospital in Benikrukru, Delta State, has passed second reading in the Senate. The proposed hospital is aimed at providing comprehensive medical services for workers in the oil and gas industry, as well as for communities affected by oil and gas operations.

Presiding over the session, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Health for further legislative work. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.

The bill, titled A Bill for an Act to Establish the Federal Oil and Gas Hospital, Benikrukru, Delta State (SB. 847), was sponsored by Senator Onwakpo Thomas Joel (APC, Delta South). It was first read on June 24, 2025.

Leading the debate, Senator Joel explained that the bill aims to provide specialized medical services to oil and gas workers and their host communities, who are frequently exposed to occupational hazards resulting in illnesses and injuries.

“The bill seeks to establish a hospital that will ensure access to quality healthcare for workers in the oil and gas sector, as well as residents of communities affected by exploration activities,” he said.

He noted that the hospital would offer emergency care, occupational health services, and treatment for oil and gas-related conditions, helping to reduce downtime and increase productivity in the industry.

“The siting of this hospital is strategic. It will help address long-standing agitations and restiveness in the Niger Delta by offering tangible health benefits to affected communities,” Joel added.

He highlighted that Delta South Senatorial District has the highest offshore crude oil production in Delta State and ranks second nationally. The proposed location for the hospital lies at the heart of offshore oil exploration, serving communities and companies such as Chevron, Shell, ExxonMobil, Total, and Nigerian Agip Oil Company.

Senator Joel also emphasized that the hospital’s funding structure has been designed to avoid additional financial burden on the federal treasury.

“The hospital will be funded by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), which derives revenue from 1% of every contract awarded within the oil and gas sector,” he explained.

“Since the NCDMB is not directly funded by the federal government, the hospital’s funding will come from this independent revenue source.”

The bill’s passage is seen as a significant step toward improving healthcare access in oil-producing communities and addressing environmental and occupational health concerns in the Niger Delta.

DELTA DEVT.: Mulade urges Oborevwori on industrialization, people impactful projects across the state

Delta State-born and renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has called on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to prioritize people-oriented projects that will industrialize the state and create the much-needed employment opportunities for the youths.

Comrade Mulade, a prominent environmental rights activist and United Nations Peace Ambassador, made the remarks during a recent press conference which was held in Asaba, the State capital. 

Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, emphasized on the urgent need for the State government to focus on initiatives that will not only enhance economic growth, but also improve the quality of life for residents in the State.

Speaking further, Mulade urged the Delta State government led by Governor Oborevwori to emulate his counterparts like governors Pastor Eno and Mbah of Akwa-Ibom and Enugu states respectively, with the latter who recently launched Enugu Airlines whose state income is somewhere 50 per cent of Delta State resources. 

According to him, "Delta State has more resources to float Delta Airways, which will create employment opportunities for our youths and industrialise the state."

The development advocate further argued that while "infrastructural projects are good, however, creating employment opportunities for the youths is far better and more important for peaceful, revitalised, sustainable economy that will add value to our economy."

Mulade therefore appeal to the governor to prioritise industrialisation due to its immense benefits of job creation, while he also admitted the State's unhealthy policies that are anti-business.

"I want to strongly appeal to His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State, to consider and prioritise industrialization as key to save our deteriorated economy. 

"It is equally imperative to state that Delta State business economy is not healthy because of some government policies that are not economically friendly," he stated.

2027: Otuaro appeals to Niger Deltans to back APC South South leaders Resolution on President Tinubu’s Reelection bid

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has urged the people of the Niger Delta to support the declaration of the leaders of the South South All Progressives Congress (APC) to support President Bola Tinubu for a second term.

 

Otuaro spoke while reacting to the position of the South South APC leaders and governors to adopt President Tinubu as their sole candidate in the 2027 presidential election in an interview with a select number of journalists in Abuja on Tuesday.

Otuaro said that what the South South APC leaders and the governors did was the right way to reward a sincere and committed leader who has shown in practical terms his love for the region and the people.

Leaders of the APC in Edo, Delta, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States in collaboration with other members of the party in the south south zone had met in Benin on July 5, 2025 where they unanimously endorsed President Tinubu for a second term in office.

Otuaro noted that the President has proved beyond doubt his love and dedication to the affairs and development of the Niger Delta through strategic appointments, initiation of big-ticket projects, establishment of agencies and adequate funding of existing ones.

Otuaro said that the Niger Delta and indeed the South South has faired well under the well-implemented Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

He argued that a President who signed into law the bills establishing the Maritime University, Okerenkoroko; the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Ogoniland, the South South Development Commission, and intensified support for the NDDC and the PAP, means well for the region and deserved the peoples support in return.

Otuaro further said, "His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has not hidden his intention to develop the South South and the Niger Delta, which explains why he has given this level of attention to the Lagos-Calabar Expressway.

"I urge the South South and the Niger Delta people to embrace the informed position of the APC leaders to sustain the region in the position to attract more development through a listening leader.

"I also advise the youths of the region and delegates of the Presidential Amnesty Programme not to allow themselves to be used by politicians with intentions inimical to the interest of the Niger Delta.

“I know that many will soon besiege our  streets with their deceptive antics out of desperation for votes. 

“We all can attest to what the President has done, and we are informed enough to know who is sincere with the desired development of our region.

“What this President deserves is our continued support and contribution to his reelection in 2027", the statement added.

IYC tackles UPU publication of Acrimony against Tantita, urges president Tinubu to jettison unpatriotic Urhobo youths

IYC LAMBASTS UPU OVER CALL FOR FG TO REMOVE SURVEILLANCE CONTRACT FROM TANTITA: CALLS ON PRESIDENT TINUBU TO IGNORE UNPATROTIC ELEMENTS 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, receives with great displeasure, the call by the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) on President Bola Tinubu to remove the pipeline pipeline surveillance contract from Tantita Security Services Limited on Urhobo territory.

Council is not only taken back by this display of grave immaturity by a critical organization such as the UPU. We are concerned that the body may have lost touch with its formation values, which include building strength in unity and good neighborliness.

For the purpose of alarming the gullible general public with the right information, it is expedient to clarify that the contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited TSSNL, by the Federal Government was not on ethnic basis, but solely on the ground of competence. 

In fact, the contract was only awarded after an open bidding and rigorous screening processes that supposedly qualified Urhobos were not denied from taking part.

The company has overtime lived out competence in delivering the terms of its contract with the Government, which is evident in the steady rise of the country's oil production volume as it approaches the 2 million bpd mark.

To refresh our memories, this same job was handled by Capt. Hosa Okunbo of Edo State for more than 8 years, covering Urhobo territories without a word from the UPU perhaps because the company didn't stop illegal bunkering activities in their areas, that drastically reduced oil production volume of the country, making it difficult for other companies to operate.

It is within the rights of the UPU to seek perceived benefits due Urhobo nation from all arms of government. However, doing such at the altar of whipping ethnic sentiments is a misstep, too overt to ignore knowing fully well the number of Urhobo contractors working freely without issues or blackmail in Ijaw territories.

 

This blunderous misstep if left uncorrected could snowball into a sustained blackmail against an Ijaw-owned firm and a further whip up of the already existing tension in Warri and environs

The IYC Western Zone by this means, charges the UPU to refrain from its attempt to undermine the groundbreaking achievements of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as a frontline army in the fight against illegal oil bunkering, oil theft and protection of oil facilities within its coverage areas.

We extend our calls to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ignore the calls from the UPU and all quarters to rescind Tantita's engagement based on the  competence and impeccable results the company has consistently produced, as this calls are born out of ethnic sentiments due to the management of TSSNL living up to its expectations. 

In fact, we call on the president to expand the scope of the running contract as Tantita's commitment to boosting the nation's oil production volumes is obviously unwavering. 

The council also extends its call to Rt.Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori - Executive Governor of Delta State to as a matter of urgency, intervene and douse the brewing tension in Warri and environs, particularly the coordinated attacks on well meaning Ijaws by it's Urhobo brothers and Itsekiri's alike.

Conclusively, we charge Tantita to remain resolute in its course to sustain the fight against oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and its all-around impactful Corporate Social Responsibilities approach.

Signed:

Comrade Nicholas Igarama, Chairman IYC Western Zone

Barr. Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Secretary, IYC Western Zone

Comrade Tare Magbei

Information Officer, IYC Western Zone

Insp. Kenneth Opukeme: The stylish commendable officer making the Nigerian Police proud

By Esther Eugene

In a time when public trust in security institutions is fragile, one man stands tall, reshaping the narrative with grace, competence, and an unmistakable sense of style. Police Inspector Kenneth Opukeme is not just an officer of the law; he is an award-winning symbol of hope and excellence within the Nigerian Police Force.

With his distinguished record of service and unrelenting dedication to duty, Insp. Opukeme has carved a niche for himself as one of the most outstanding officers in the force. Whether on the parade ground or in high-risk field operations, his calm demeanor, sharp intelligence, and strategic thinking make him a model of what every Nigerian police officer should be.

 But beyond his tactical brilliance lies a man of elegance and charisma. Known across his division for his impeccable sense of style, Insp. Opukeme is often described as “the most stylish officer in uniform.” 

His neat dressing, confident posture, and humble composure are part of what endears him to the public and fellow officers alike. He proves daily that professionalism and personal presentation are not mutually exclusive. He is calm, gentle and calculative like the eagle when going for his target. He never misses his prey as a professional marksman during gun battles. Awarded for excellence in policing and community engagement, Insp. Kenneth Opukeme continues to redefine what it means to wear the uniform with pride and purpose. His commitment to fairness, justice, and discipline has earned him both accolades and admiration from superiors and subordinates. 

When asked the motivation behind his dedication and doggedness? Insp. Opukeme replied'' Our late father Opukeme was a disciplinarian. He instilled discipline and dedication  to duty and selfless humanity services in all his children. My elder brother, a UK trained reputable investigative journalist, Mr  Cletus Opukeme who lives in Delta state is a symbol of hope and  shining star in Nigerian journalism. In 2020, he was to be assassinated because of his discipline and dedication to duty  by  rejecting a huge millions bribe offered by politicians. He exposed the massive billions of naira looting in 2020 in Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC). That incident severely affected the Opukeme's family as we continued to pray for his life while he was hiding from place to place for fear of being killed. He has the opportunity to make a lot of money, if it were some other persons. Being disciplined and dedicated to duty is in our family DNA. My elder brother who is a journalist, Mr. Opukeme is not a policeman. But both of us fight crime in different ways. I fight crime with the gun, he fights crime with the pen. We are who we are from our late parents. I am very happy doing my job the way the job wants me to do it. That is my motivation in the police force. I want to seize this opportunity to thank God, it is not my power for the grace to do so I want to also thank authorities in the  Nigerian  police, all ex- IGPs, current IGP, all commissioners of police across the nation my Bayelsa state Commissioner of police , all my seniors and juniors  colleagues, peers who recognised my little contributions in the police force and to the  Nigerian government by honouring me. I will continue to do my best without fear or favour.'' He said.

Insp. Opukeme represents a new generation of Nigerian police officers—disciplined, humane, intelligent, and visionary. At a time when the force is in dire need of heroes, his story inspires not just younger officers but every Nigerian who still believes in a better system.

The Nigerian Police Force, and indeed the entire nation, is proud of men like Insp. Kenneth Opukeme. He is proof that when integrity meets style and service, the result is nothing short of greatness.

In the evolving landscape of Nigerian law enforcement, where dedication and integrity are in high demand, one name continues to rise above the rest—Police Inspector Kenneth Opukeme. A shining symbol of excellence, style, and service, Insp. Opukeme has not only won hearts across the nation but also earned rare commendations from top authorities in the force. 

His remarkable efforts in crime fighting have drawn the attention of no less than the former Inspector General police in 2015 during former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-IGP Police Suleiman Abba awarded him for his excellent performance in the Nigerian Police force.

Again, the current Commissioner of Police CP. Alonyenu Idu on the 2nd July, 2025, both of whom have officially commended him for his outstanding contribution to peace, security, and effective policing. Such recognition at the highest level of law enforcement is no small feat—it is a testimony to his professionalism, discipline, and relentless commitment to duty.

Presently Insp. Kenneth Opukeme is attached to Mopol 30 squadron,Yenagoa Bayelsa state command where his  services again were noticed by the  commissioner of police, Bayelsa State CP. Alonyenu Idu for this latest honour and award.

Beyond  the handsome and innocent dark face, there lies a dodged, rugged, fearless and  disciplined Nigerian Police officer in time of tactical operations as testified by his peers which earned him the love, admiration and honour/ award  by the police authorities. He has shown dedication, enthusiasm and love for his job. He has led both diligence and tactical operations with success. His combined squad operations  with the Joint Task Force (JTF)  from the Mobile Police Unit at the volatile  Northern Nigeria at the Sambisa forest in Borno State against terrorists and other  bandits across the nation earned him the swag of ''brutal and merciless officer'' during gun battle as a trained combatant.

Insp. Opukeme’s track record in curbing criminal activity within and beyond Bayelsa State is impressive. His sharp intelligence, tactical leadership, and results-driven operations have made him one of the most respected officers in his division. He is the kind of officer that restores public confidence in the Nigerian Police Force—a man whose actions speak louder than any slogan.

Beyond the badge and the bravery, however, lies a heart deeply committed to humanity. 

Known for his swift and selfless responses to highway accidents, Insp. Kenneth Opukeme has saved countless lives by offering immediate assistance to accident victims, even when off-duty with most times his personal income to save lives. His humanitarian services have touched families, communities, and travelers who were met with kindness when they needed it most.

And while his operational successes command respect, his personal style turns heads.

 Always neatly dressed, polished, and composed, Insp. Opukeme is widely admired as “the most stylish officer in uniform.” His appearance is a reflection of his inner discipline—a man who takes pride in his job, his uniform, and his duty to the nation.

From crime-fighting exploits to life-saving heroism and sartorial elegance, Insp. Kenneth Opukeme is indeed a rare gem in the Nigerian Police Force. He stands as an inspiration to his peers and a beacon of trust for the public.

As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, men like Inspector Opukeme remind us that with the right values, courage, and compassion, the police can truly be our friend.

Inspector Opukeme has rekindled hope within the rank and file of the men and women of the  Nigerian Police force as a beacon of hope and a game changer.

Just-ln: ltsekiri Nation Oppose Proposed Ijaw Toru-Ebe State Creation, Demand Warri State for llaje and Binis ..... Says State creation is based on ethnic affinity, not population or landmass, ltsekiri nation tell Senate

..... Says State creation is based on ethnic affinity, not population or landmass, ltsekiri nation tell Senate

The Itsekiri people of Warri Kingdom in Delta State have called on the Nigerian Senate to consider the creation of a Warri State with its capital in Warri township. The call was made during the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on constitutional amendment held by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

Represented by Chief Edward Ekpoko, Chairman of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT), the Itsekiri also strongly opposed the Ijaw ethnic group’s proposal for the creation of a Toru-Ebe State, which they say includes ancestral lands belonging to the Itsekiri, the Ilaje of Ondo State, and the Binis of Edo State.

In a memorandum presented to the Senate, the Itsekiri stated that the Ijaw people are tenants on parts of the land they seek to include in the proposed Toru-Ebe State.

“There is no way a state created for customary tenants can control the landlords’ land,” the Itsekiri said. “The land belongs to the customary landlords, not the tenants.”

The group argued that state creation should not be based on landmass or population, but on ethnic and linguistic affinity. They expressed concerns about what they describe as long-standing political marginalisation, noting that despite contributing over 33% of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources, the Itsekiri have only one representative in the House of Representatives and two in the Delta State House of Assembly.

They also demanded the inclusion of a constitutional clause to protect minority ethnic groups, similar to provisions in the defunct Midwestern Nigeria Constitution.

“If minority protection is not guaranteed, then we are calling for the creation of Warri State,” the group said, proposing the new state be made up of Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South West LGAs all part of the traditional Warri Kingdom.

The memorandum was jointly signed by leaders of the Itsekiri, Ilaje, and Bini ethnic nationalities, all of whom expressed strong objection to the Ijaw-led state proposal. They argued that the Ijaw claim undermines the identity and history of other Niger Delta communities.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who chaired the hearing, said the review aims to strengthen governance, equity, and justice across the country. Other stakeholders present included Senate President Godswill Akpabio and senators from the South-South region.

Shame to UPU, others over attack on Tompolo, Tantita, hold Olu, Omo-Agege responsible for your woes, Malcolm Freeman tells Urhobo, ltsekiri youths

The Olu has a massive pipeline contract that covers Ijaw Bayelsa and Rivers State, no Ijaw is opposing, abusing, and threatening him on national television. Knowing the Itsekiris, they will never drag the Olu ( except he has issues with Ayiri and Ejele). Please drag your king, his pipeline surveillance job is bigger than the one Tantita has.. your Olu is ten times a billionaire than Tompolo, he has the capacity to singlehandedly turn Ode Itsekiri to paradise. Ayiri, Ejele, and their fellow twelve disciples also have pipeline surveillance contracts with NNPC.. hold them responsible for their lack of transparency and accountability to the the Itsekiri nation.

My other half tribe Urhobo was also given a very big pipeline surveillance contract through Ovie Omo Agege ( Which he gave to his Port Harcourt based billionaire brother Jimmy), his contract also covered some Ijaw areas. I have not seen Ijaws dragging him( even when he hasn't given slot to Ijaw youth council, Ijaw traditional rulers, and market group). The Ageges have every opportunity to be like the Pondis who are spreading help and love to all and sundery, but they are quietly eating their billions alone and using small to play politics of support me and I help you small.

Many out of shame and cowardice will never admit their open hatred for the ijaws, because they don't want to be seen for what they are. It is only the Itsekiris that usually openly come out to display this caustic hatred that one can't really explain the reasons behind.. you lost a local war that you imposed on yourself, please move on. Stop using every opportunity to drag the ijaws for your self hate, self greed, and internal division.

Ijaws will go to the forest to hurt, they will bring the meat to the market square and share with their neighbours( who never went to the forest with them because of cowardice and fear). Now, instead of appreciating the ijaws benovelance and generosity, they will be dragging Ijaws for their internal greed, selfishness, and pull him down syndrome.

The ijaw know the many press conference, paid newspaper publications her neighbours made during federal government GENOCIDE and ethnic cleansing campaign against the Ijaws in Gbaramatu, Odi and Kiama.. till  tomorrow they still do this evil publication to Paint Ijaws as enemy of the federal government, hoping Tulumbu will send military to kill Ijaws and bomb their villages. We know those who openly celebrated the Rivers State of emergency.. reason was because the governor is Ijaw. Ayiri and his Itsekiri supporters openly supported it by organising parties in real life and on social media. 

Our women were raped, and kidnapped as trophies by Nigeria military; our youth and elders were killed, tortured, and arrested; our communities were bombed and razed to the ground with helicopter gunship and jets.. let those saying the ijaws hijacked amnesty office show us their militants and communities that were destroyed during the federal government military invasion.

Tantita doesn't even have any right to be generous and kind to areas they are not covering, but because the Ijaw man is naturally generous and accommodating to a fault, greedy and envious neighbours will always capitalise on this Ijaw kindness to stab them behind.

Itsekiris, hold your Olu and big politicians for your lack of development in your riverine communities. Stop blaming Tompolo, Tantita and the larger Ijaw nation. Ijaws didn't stop you from taking development to Ode itsekiri, Ogidigben, Aruton, Omodino, Obodo, Ijala, etc. kill your pride and self hate and ask questions of how are the ijaws doing this development in Gbaramatu, Ogula, Ogbe Ijoh, etc. Stop poisoning your ignorant population with lies, half truth, falsehood and propaganda against the ijaws.

My mother people urhobo, summon the courage and fearlessness to drag your politicians and Ovie Omo Agege who also have pipeline surveillance job. 

Sheriff is presently Delta State Governor he has more resources than Tantita, hold him responsible for your lack of political patronage in Warri, Ughelli, Uvwie, etc. Hold him for your lack of massive employment in Delta civil service. Hold him responsible for the state of poor roads in urhobo communities. Hold him responsible for the state of insecurity in urhobo towns and villages.

Enough is Enough of this endless propaganda and ethnic slandering against Tantita and the larger Ijaw Nation. 

It is not a crime to be generous, kind, accommodating, transparent, and generous.

It shouldn't be a crime for the ijaws behaving as good neighbour who share their food and opportunities with others.

All the ijaws seek is corporation to grow together, to prosper together, to live peacefully with others.

This petty hatred must stop.

Post is the intellectual property of Malcolm Freeman Godfrey..

Featured Article: The Philosophy of 'Agogoism', Oborevwori and Asupa_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou

The birth of political theories, ideologies and philosophies is always credited to great thinkers. The birth of political theories and philosophies takes different times in every generation and these theories and philosophies are often born like babies at timed seasons in the life of man. A new political philosophy built around Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has been born.It is a political philosophy long propounded by the great philosopher Timiebi. It is called 'Agogoism'. For Timiebi, wherever her husband goes positively, she goes too without demur. Agogoism is an ideology of  transformational movement guided by geography and geometry; it is an ideology of total commitment, total sympathy, empathy, humanity and  loyalty to accredited codes of interaction and cohabitation. It historically originated from the prompt responsiveness of the husband to the needs of the wife. The philosophy came into being in the 1950s when it was propounded by Timiebi to foreground the sensitivity of man to the needs of women which guarantees marital harmony and success . Timiebi propounded this philosophy to move thoughts of women from the zone of matrilocality to thoughts of patrilocality because patrilocality is a solid bridge to marital harmony and success , and it makes the woman gravitate towards any progressive path charted by the man in a marital union.

In contemporary time this philosophy of Agogoism has been subjected to a strategic transplant, grafting, retooling, in the hands of Deltans. For Deltans  Governor  Oborevwori has demonstrated such moving infrastructural and educational commitment they are prepared to go to wherever the governor goes. Piloted by this philosophy, Deltans only applauded Oborevwori in the wake of his strategic movement to APC because it is an ideological movement envisioned to position Delta State advantageously at the national level of politics.

Every Deltan terms the governor's strategic movement a centripetal shift rather than a centrifugal shift that compromises and endangers the ethos and ideals of togetherness at the ethnic, cultural, economic, social, political and national level of cohabitation and meaningful integration.

The philosophy of Agogoism is now home to renewed vigour, relevance and meaning having being built around the single-minded developmental firmness of Governor Oborevwori  who sees infrastructural and educational development as his lifeblood, communicative tools and tentacles of connection to progressive forces and institutions in politics . Because the governor inhales and exhales development in every dimension of life in politics, Deltans are unanimous in their resolve that they must tread on any path befriended by the governor. Now that he is in APC, they are also in APC. Because they know the governor needs eight years to consolidate and accomplish his development plans for Delta State, they have signalled their support for the governor with the rebuilt and transplanted contemporary version of the philosophy called 'Agogoism' which means Deltans must go wherever the governor of Delta State goes.

At the ward level the political philosophy of Agogoism has gained meaningful traction. On 28 June 2025 at ward seven in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State , the people of ward seven (Ngbilebiri one) headquartered in Ayakoromo, indicated that they are also firm carriers of the Agogoism ideology as they gathered and communicated to the world that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori should be re-elected in 2027 based on their politics of performance and development vision. Towards this progressive direction, Hon. Asupa Peter Forteta  whose anatomical and physiological composition carries the Agogoism philosophy, and who does everything  to project the philosophy  for consolidation of the RE-ELECTION dream of Governor Oborevwori, he financially supported the ward seven gathering with a huge sum of money even with the knowledge that he is not from ward seven, only carrying roots buried in ward nine (Ogbolubiri).  Asupa's inspiring  supportive financial presence at ward seven on 28 June 2025 in Ayakoromo where it was unanimously declared Governor Oborevwori and President Tinubu should have a turbulence-free sail in 2027,  marks his principled avowal to form alliance with any move to actualise the RE-ELECTION  projections of Governor Oborevwori and President Tinubu.

How Hon. Asupa became a pragmatic boost for the philosophy of Agogoism at ward seven shows his ambitious support for Oborevwori's and Tinubu's  continuity jingle. It shows Agogoism and Oborevwori have merged just as Asupa has become part of ward seven's identification with the philosophy of Agogoism in Delta State and beyond.

In Agogoism one can find the support of Deltans for Governor Oborevwori's movement to APC; in Agogoism one can also find the support of Deltans for Oborevwori's RE-ELECTION madrigal.

Agogoism has become the envisioned enabler for Oborevwori's journey to Government House in 2027. Ward seven and Asupa have become the vehicle for the transportation of Oborevwori and Tinubu to the projected 2027 without fogged visibility encumbrances 

Governor Oborevwori and Agogoism are now on identical path.The two appear to have consolidated a twosome alliance. He believes in investing in any venture potentially beneficial to Deltans. His  movement to APC is driven by his unconscious immersion in the philosophy of Agogoism because he naturally holds the conviction that it will benefit Deltans at all levels of governance  -  both state and federal.The movement is developmentally driven because it is underlain by an ideology of unimpeded growth projections for Delta State.

 Alliance anywhere is always an applauded strategic political movement. An alliance with Tinubu is clearly an alliance with forces of growth and transformation in governance. Agogoism is also reflected at the infrastructural and educational levels of Oborevwori's pragmatic developmental ideation for Deltans. For Oborevwori he is prepared to journey across any sea bound to activate the infrastructural flow of Delta State much as he daily walks on paths envisioned to move Delta State educationally to the peak in the aspect of bursary and scholarship awards for financially inhibited students of Delta State origin. For the governor of Delta State there is a meaningful gravitation towards infrastructural Agogoism and educational Agogoism, as audaciously captured in his developmental vision for Deltans  - a developmental vision demarcated by roads, bridges, cloverleaf, flyovers and drainages marked clearly as either  ongoing or completed.

It amazes people that the philosophy first propounded by Timiebi Maika to communicate marital harmony and growth was first hijacked by Deltans without acknowledgement. Today the Agogoism principle has been positively 'hijacked' by Governor Oborevwori who has become an expanded version of Agogoism. However the developmental expansions Governor Oborevwori has brought upon the Timiebi-made philosophy of marital harmony, the governor should recognise that it was Timiebi Maika who first propounded the philosophy of Agogoism. 

Viewed from the perspective that the philosophy of Agogoism is historically credited to Timiebi Maika, Asupa who recently  popularised the Agogoism philosophy at Ayakoromo through his pragmatic support of ward seven's firm stand for the re-election of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori in 2027, must realise that Timiebi Maika deserves a recognition for philosophically clearing the path for Agogoism now turned into a collective political jingle for the people to come together and democratically empower Tinubu and Oborevwori for the 2027 race. 

From a brook in the mangrove thicket near Grangbene Deep 'A' Project located between Oyangbene and Labulouseigha, where I am seated on a dugout canoe for a reconnaissance mission around the creeks, I can see Rt. Hon Julius Pondi  waving at me his handkerchief of political Agogoism strategically linked to Tinubu, Oborevwori and Asupa. A posthumous congratulations to Timiebi Maika for philosophically making it  possible for Deltans, Tinubu, Oborevwori, Asupa Forteta and Julius Pondi to walk on the golden path of political Agogoism without pressures being strategically mounted on them! Timiebi Maika must be a great philosopher of political togetherness who deserves a posthumous recognition from Governor Oborevwori and President Tinubu for her philosophical truism and commitment now that her propounded 'Agogoism' philosophy has become the muster point for all political thinkers of worth.

Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

Just-ln: Niger Delta group lauds NDLEA boss, Buba Marwa for arresting hard drugs smuggler Ayirimi Emami's brother

The Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI, has commended the Commandant-General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Maj. Gen. Buba Marwa and the Agency in its fight against drug trafficking and for the arrest of one Emami Ajetsibogho, younger brother to controversial Warri Chief Ayirimi Emami for allegedly smuggling drugs worth billions of naira into the Country. 

It was gathered that the suspect was arrested by the Agency's strike force at Apapa in Lagos State Command following a tip-of.

The group national president in a statement, Comrade Ozobo said,"the arrest of Chief Emami's brother is a milestone, laudable achievement in the fight against drug trafficking in this country.

"I want to commend NDLEA who were able to get the lead information to apprehend this criminal suspect."

According to Comrade Ozobo,"As Ijaw people, we are happy that God is vindicating us. The Itsekiris are hell bent to kill the Ijaw people to grab their lands."

He recalled that a British Soldier from the Itsekiri extraction was recently arrested for smuggling guns into Warri to kill innocent people, especially Ijaws and to cause crisis in Warri. God exposed him and DSS arrested the British Soldier and thwarted his evil intentions."

He noted that another Itsekiri person has been caught allegedly trafficking drugs into the Country. "Who knows whether it was to drug miscreants to kill Ijaw people and burn villages? Ozobo asked. 

"Ayiri particularly who has been making all kinds of unprintable statements against Ijaw people, we are surprised that his younger brother is a drug baron. Ayiri should be ashamed of himself. This shows that Ayiri Emami's family is not a reputable family, by wanting to bribe NDLEA with a whopping sum of Two hundred million (N200m) to get his brother released. We thought Ayiri has a reputation, but it is shameful."

Comrade Ozobo pointed out that a  Federal High Court sitting in Abuja dismissed a suit filed y some Itsekiris to stop the delineation of Warri Federal Constituency. He emphasized that the court fined them four(4) million naira damages for wasting its time and that of the defendants in the Suit. 

We are not deterred by their plots. We are very sure that the right thing will be done in the Warri federal constituency.

Comrade Ozobo, however urged the Maj.Gen. Buba Marwa led NDLEA to investigate the matter thoroughly and prosecute the suspect in line with stipulated laws to serve as a deterrent to others. 

"I am calling on the NDLEA to investigate properly and bring to book anyone connected to this crime. If Ayiri is connected, he should be brought to book. Any Itsekiri connected should be brought to book."

Ozobo lamented that a time when TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited is helping to rehabilitate youths whose lives have been destroyed as a result of drug abuses and addiction, Ayiri Emami's family were busy worsening the situation by trafficking and making available the drugs to youths to further destroy their future. 

He also appealed to the NDLEA to partner with TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited in the rehabilitation of youths in Warri and its environ.

Mulade laments over Delta state government's lack of political Will to implement Anti-Open Grazing Law

Renowned Delta State peace and environmental justice advocate, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, has lamented the deliberate neglect and non-implementation of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law 2021, alleging it had been used to only score political credit, while vulnerable masses, especially farmers, were abandoned to their fate.

Speaking on the law, Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West council area, stated that, close to four years after its passage, the non-implementation of the law is an indictment on the government in its inability to safeguarding the lives of Deltans.

He said, "In 2021, the Delta State government took a politically motivated and significant step towards addressing the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers by signing the Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law. 

"This legislation was designed to curb the rampant issues associated with open grazing, which has been a source of tension, violence, and insecurity in many parts of Nigeria. However, as we approach the fourth anniversary of this law, it is evident that the Delta State government has failed to implement it effectively, leaving citizens vulnerable to the very crises the law was intended to prevent."

Mulade reiterated the importance of the law in not only curbing violence but enhancing agricultural productivity and economic stability. 

"The context of the law is very clear: Open grazing has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and southern regions, where clashes between herders and farmers have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread insecurity. 

"The Anti-Open Grazing Law was introduced as a proactive measure to regulate livestock movement, protect farmlands, and promote peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers. By prohibiting open grazing, the law aimed to reduce conflicts and enhance agricultural productivity, thereby fostering economic stability in the region," he stressed.

The National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, warned of the consequences of the non-implementation of the anti-grazing law to include hunger, insecurity, violence, crimes, and the lack of public trust in the government among others.

"Despite the law's noble intentions, the Delta State government has not taken the necessary steps because it lacks the political will to enforce it to the detriment of Deltans This lack of implementation has serious implications for the state and its citizens. 

"The failure to regulate grazing practices has left farmers vulnerable to the encroachment of cattle on their lands, leading to crop destruction and economic losses. Moreover, the absence of a robust framework to manage herders activities has exacerbated tensions between communities, increasing the likelihood of violent confrontations.

"The situation is further complicated by reports of kidnappings and violent attacks attributed to herders and their accomplices. Citizens have expressed growing concerns about their safety, as these incidents have become alarmingly frequent. The government's silence on the non-implementation of the law, despite these security challenges, raises questions about its commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of its citizens.

"The failure to implement the Anti-Open Grazing Law not only threatens agricultural productivity but also poses a significant risk to the overall security of Delta State. The lack of effective governance in this regard undermines public trust in the government and its ability to maintain law and order," he added.