2027: Otuaro charges N'Delta Ex-agitators to shun desperate politicians planning to sabotage the region

Press Release

2027: Otuaro Urges Niger Delta Ex-agitators To Shun Desperate Politicians Planning Mischief

••• Reaffirms Tinubu's Commitment To Region

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has appealed to ex-agitators in the Niger Delta to remain vigilant and resist the efforts of some politicians who are bent on destabilising the region for selfish ends.

He noted with concern the recent rise in politically-charged rhetoric and coordinated attempts by some politicians to pit ex-agitators and beneficiaries of the programme against the Federal Government even ahead of the 2027 elections.

Otuaro spoke at the end of the second batch three-day strategic Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Mediation Training organised by the PAP from July 30 to August 1, 2025 for its stakeholders in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.

Otuaro, who presented certificates to the workshop participants and later hosted them to a reception at the PAP headquarters, admonished ex-agitators not be deceived by such politicians and their antics.

He described these moves as reckless and unnecessary as there is no basis for anyone to cause destabilisation given the President Tinubu administration's commitment to the development and socio-economic advancement of the Niger Delta.

He stressed that President Tinubu was massively supporting the programme's human capital development and empowerment schemes for ex-agitators and beneficiaries.

Otuaro, while urging the participants to play their role as leaders, said, "We can all see the commitment of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Ex-agitators and beneficiaries in general should not be deceived and distracted by some politicians.

"Be assured that nobody will do it better than President Tinubu. As Niger Delta people, we have to thank the President for his genuine love for the Presidential Amnesty Programme and our region as a whole.

“The President Tinubu administration has shown goodwill to our people, not just in words, but in action. The President has expanded the budget of the programme,  allowing us to reach more beneficiaries and strengthen our reintegration and rehabilitation initiatives.

‘’Furthermore, Niger Deltans have been appointed to strategic positions in key ministries and agencies. This level of inclusion is unprecedented and deserves acknowledgement. All we need to do is to be united for the President."

He urged all ex-agitators and stakeholders in the region to reflect on the progress made and not allow themselves to be used by political actors who do not have the interest of the region at heart.

He said their focus should be on peace, stability, and development of the region, adding that "any call for confrontation or disaffection at this time is not only misplaced but also harmful to the gains we have recorded."

According to him, the Tinubu administration means well for the Niger Delta and it is important that his goodwill is reciprocated with support, unity, and constructive engagement.

Otuaro reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the PAP would continue to serve as a platform for sustainable human capital development, empowerment, and regional peace.

He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to continue sensitising the youths to resist being used as tools of political destabilisation, emphasising that lasting progress can only be achieved through cooperation, not conflict.

Signed:

Mr Igoniko Oduma,

Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme

03/08/2025.

Opinion: "Wike: Rebel With a Cause, or Emperor Without a Throne?"_By William Z. Bozimo

Some men enter the theatre of politics wearing masks, and then some storm through the doors bare-chested, roaring, daring both friend and foe to strike first. Wike has never needed a mask and his face is carved by combat not diplomacy, a lion with a microphone and a bulldozer for a will. Once the flame of the PDP, he now fans the furnace of Tinubu’s FCT dreams. From “APC must go!” to wearing its badge in broad daylight. 

Wike’s transformation is either the boldest pivot in modern Nigerian politics or the most spectacular betrayal since Brutus kissed Caesar’s hand. But unlike Brutus, Wike didn’t strike in secret. He did it on the balcony, under the full glare of the sun. He says he fought for the South but critics say he fought for Wike. He also says that he stood for justice, but observers say he couldn’t stand losing the PDP ticket. So which is it? Is this man a Southern redeemer or just another statesman disguised in the robes of self-interest?

What’s undeniable about him is his theatre gift. Nyesom Wike doesn’t whisper his rebellions. He choreographs them, amplifies them, and turns them into televised symphonies of defiance. In doing so, he exposes the hypocrisy of the silent saboteurs who operate from the shadows while pretending to serve. Today, Wike is Mr. Projects in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja, working like a man racing a stopwatch. Some say it’s a duty. Others whisper that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave him one instruction: “Deliver or disappear.” Is Wike proving a point or chasing an ultimatum?

His clash with Rotimi Amaechi is now folklore. A saga written in the stones of Port Harcourt and each brick is a witness to their unrelenting war. But has Rivers State grown stronger under this duel? Or has its soul been bled dry by two titans who cannot share a stage? He crowned Sim Fubara governor, but the crown tilted too soon. The throne rebelled, the godfather raged, and the people watched, weary of kings who demand kneeling. Is Wike a political architect building legacies or a man incapable of letting go of the scaffolding?

What does Wike want? To be kingmaker, king, or king-breaker? He looms large in every dialogue about 2027. Not because he has declared, but because he never really retires. He might not wear the crown but he always carries the sceptre, often behind his back, hidden in plain sight. Or perhaps, he is playing the long game. Biding time, securing turf, and waiting for 2027 to rise not as a candidate, but an indispensable anointer, the only man with enough bark and bite to broker the peace before the next war.

Yet history is a jealous chronicler. It records not just the moves you made, but the lives you shifted, the alliances you shattered, and the questions you refused to answer. One day, when the South asks, “What did we truly gain from Wike’s rebellion?” the silence may be louder than any speech. So I ask, when your time is done, what will you leave behind? A trail of battles won, a region redeemed, or a party reimagined?

“Some men lead with vision. Others lead with volume. But the rarest leaders lead with consequence, knowing that history listens not to echoes, but to impact.”

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Dr. Angozi celebrates Chief James lbori at 67, describes him as a bridge builder and architect of Delta State development

 

Francis Tayor

Former Chairman Burutu Local Government Council and Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources Delta State, Braduce Amakazi Angozi Ph'D, has join other well wishers to rejoiced and congratulated with a former governor of the state, His Excellency, Chief. James Onanefe lbori, on the auspicious occasion of his 67th birthday.

In a statement released on Monday at Abuja, Angozi described Chief lbori as a bridge builder and the architect of modern infrastructural development of Delta State.

Chief James Onanefe Ibori, popularly known as "The Odidigborigbo 1 Of Africa" was elected as the executive governor of Delta State from 1999-2007, and his administration was characterized with critical infrastructural development, human capital development and achievement of 13% Derivation Funds for the people of South-South Region.

In his words, he said:

"As you add another golden year to your age today, on behalf of myself and family, l extend heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. May the Almighty God grant you good health, happiness, peace of mind, long life and prosperity, as well as every good thing you desire to make life meaningful, Braduce Angozi Ph'D" stated.

Opinion: Tinubu and the 2027 Equation_By William Z. Bozimo

Will political capital, public patience, and party loyalty add up to a second term? As the road to 2027 quietly takes shape, Nigerians must begin to ask: Has President Tinubu’s first term delivered enough to justify a second? His administration rode in on the heels of bold reforms like fuel subsidy removal, exchange-rate unification, and a promise to resurrect moribund refineries. 

Yet, for the average Nigerian, the maths isn't adding up. Markets may cheer stability, but refrigerators, shelves and transport queues tell a different story altogether. What is currently unfolding is not merely a test of economic policy, it is a delicate dance of political calculation. Will Tinubu recalibrate to meet the demands of a restless youth population, or fall back on the tired choreography of patronage and consolidation?

In true Tinubulistic fashion, the intention is clear. But ambition alone does not earn renewal. The question now is whether the second-term bid will be grounded in performance, or floated by optics and spin. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must resist the temptation of short memory. We cannot afford another term built on rhetoric while the people remain collateral in the theatre of political survival.

Let it be known that this is not a trial. It is a reckoning. In the theatre of Nigerian politics, those who roar must one day account to the crowd as the tides of 2027 begin to stir.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

INC Elections: Alabo Nengi James declares intention to vie for the office of President, notifies friends, well wishers ahead of congress

Francis Tayor 

The National Vice President 2, ljaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide, Dr. Alabo Nengi James, OON, MCArb, Mnim etc has declared his intention to vie for the position of the President in the forthcoming Ijaw National Congress election.

In a statement disclosed through his official Facebook social media handle Nengi James on Saturday, the incumbent Vice President of INC notified his friends, colleagues and associates that he has the burning desire to serve ljaw nation again as the President of Congress, while soliciting for the support of his admirers ahead of congress 

Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview behind close door, Alabo Nengi James revealed that the official declaration of his campaign would be made known to the public through his Facebook handle Nengi James, stressing that he has what it takes to serve ljaw nation adequately without fear or favour.

Read below the message in full.

"My beloved Friends, Associates, Comrades and Admirers

Am hereby informing you all that am Contesting the Position of President in the Forthcoming Ijaw National Congress Election.

"I am Alabo ( Dr) Nengi James, OON, MCArb, Mnim etc.

Astute Administrator,  Professional Meditator and Arbitrator, Author, Ecologist, Civil Society Practitioner, Public Policy Specialist, Rights Advocate, Environmentalist, and accomplished Philanthropist and Entrepreneur.

(Se-Ebidouowei of Niger Delta).

"Progenitor of the Concept of "Oceanification" (Ocean Encroachment on Ijawland and beyond in the Niger Delta. 

Author of the Book - _Oceanification: Environmental, Ecological and Socio-Economic Impact in the Niger Delta._ 

"Admitted into the Bayelsa State History and Archives Environmental Hall of Fame, February, 2024. 

National Vice President 2, Ijaw National Congress.

"Multiple Awardee on several Administrative and Civil Society Groups".

Just-ln: Mulade urges Delta ethnic groups to unite, embrace peace to attract investors and development from government

Delta State-born renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has called on the various ethnic nationalities in the state to embrace development for the benefits of all Deltans.

The United Nations Peace ambassador and environmental rights activist made the appeal to particularly the Urhobos, the Itsekiris, and the Ijaws, who he said are the livewire of the state economy.

He said, "We cannot continue to fight ourselves, oppose development, and chase away investors that will create employment opportunities for our teeming youths because of selfish interest. 

"I want to strongly appeal and advise our revered traditional rulers and political leaders to shun hatred and embrace peace, unity, and development for the interest and progress of our dire state," he added.

Mulade, who is the Ibe Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom and the National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) assured that both the president and state government are committed to attracting investors to the state 

"It is pertinent to state that the current Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the State Government led by Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori are doing everything humanly possible to attract investors to the state through the ongoing state projects and federal presence," the CEPEJ Boss stated.

According to Mulade, the big three ethnic groups in the State need to unite and play strategic roles that will aid the federal and state government to deliver democratic dividends to the people  

"Delta State is blessed with abundance of human capital and natural endowments. Rather than fighting ourselves, let us harness the potentials of influence across the State to support the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Deltans to enjoy the dividend of democracy as the economic live wire of Nigeria," he counseled.

2027: Nigerian civil servants to fully participate in politics as Supreme Court delivers judgement in their favour

Francis Tayor 

Abuja, Nigeria____ In a significant affirmation of constitutional rights, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has ruled that civil servants are free to participate in political activities, marking a turning point in the nation’s legal and democratic history. The judgment, which stems from the long-standing case of INEC Vs Balarabe Musa & Others (2003) 10 WRN 1, provides a definitive interpretation of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution as it relates to political association.

Apex Court Judgment Offers Constitutional Clarity:

Delivering the lead judgment, Honourable Justice Ayoola of the Supreme Court emphasized that there was no constitutional basis for the restrictive Civil Service Rules that barred civil servants from political participation. The court held that:

“There is nothing reasonably justifiable, in a democratic society, in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health, in prohibiting a member of the Public or Civil Service from eligibility to be registered as a member of a political party.”

Justice Ayoola rejected the argument that the restriction was justified under Section 45(1)(a) of the Constitution. The court maintained that such limitations violate the fundamental rights to freedom of association as provided in Section 40.

Former Chief Justice

In a concurring judgment, then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Uwais, echoed the unconstitutionality of barring civil servants from political associations. He stated unequivocally:

“The provisions of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution are clear. Their import is to allow every person, including public office holders and civil servants, the freedom to assemble freely and associate with other persons to form or belong to any political party or trade union or any other association for the protection of his interest. The section has made no exceptions.”

Though the Civil Service Rules (PSR 2008 Edition) were not explicitly invalidated in that specific case because their legal validity was not directly challenged, this judgment casts serious doubt on the enforceability of those portions that restrict political participation.

Head of Civil Service Responds:

Following numerous inquiries and legal concerns from Nigerian workers, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation released a circular dated 5th May 2022, referencing the Supreme Court’s judgment. The circular clarified that civil servants are, in fact, constitutionally free to participate in partisan politics, provided they adhere to general public service ethics and avoid conflict of interest during active service.

This development has been widely praised by good governance advocates and workers’ unions across the country. Hon. Bashir B. Madaki, a prominent voice for political inclusivity and an advocate for good governance, described the ruling as “a liberation of constitutional rights that have long been trampled upon by overreaching bureaucratic interpretations.”

Implications for Future Elections:

The judgment opens the door for thousands of public servants who have long remained politically passive due to fear of sanctions. With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, political parties may now witness an influx of new political actors from the civil service space, bringing professional expertise and administrative experience into political leadership.

Legal analysts also suggest that unless a fresh suit is brought to specifically challenge the relevant Civil Service Rules and strike them down, the ambiguity between constitutional rights and administrative rules may still require further legal interpretation. However, the Supreme Court’s position is clear: constitutional provisions override any inconsistent administrative rules or regulations.

A New Era for Nigeria’s Democracy:

This Supreme Court pronouncement is being hailed as a landmark clarification that reinforces Nigeria's democratic ideals and the right of all citizens — including those in civil service — to freely participate in the governance of their country.

As more civil servants awaken to their political rights, the political landscape in Nigeria may soon reflect a broader representation of society, bridging the gap between governance and public service.

Davido declares he has billions of dollars already, says he is working hard not because of money but passion for music

David Adeleke, the world-famous Afrobeats singer, who is popularly known as Davido, has declared that he has billions of dollars just waiting for him.

He said he regrets being hardworking despite being from a privileged background.

He lamented that hard work drains him mentally.

He explained that he’s working hard because he loves his job and not for money.

The ‘Omo Baba Olowo’ crooner, who is the son of Nigerian billionaire businessman, Adedeji Adeleke, boasted that even if he decides to stop working now, he has billions of dollars already.

Davido spoke during an interview with music executive Bankulli after his sold-out show at the Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Canada on Saturday night.

“I regret to myself for being hardworking. The stress and mental ability that goes into this type of work, especially with a lot of odds against me, is draining me.

"But I have to do it. It’s not for the money, I have billions of dollars waiting for me. Even if I don’t work again in my life, I have billions of dollars. But I’m working because I love my job and my fans,” Davido said.

Otuaro Salutes President Tinubu For Backing PAP's Peacebuilding Process In Niger Delta

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his huge support for the programme's peacebuilding process in the Niger Delta.

Otuaro spoke on Wednesday while delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony for the second batch of the Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Media Training organised by the PAP for its stakeholders in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.

The first batch of the three-day workshop took place from July 16 to July 18, 2025 at the same venue- the Nigerian Army Resource Centre.

He attributed Tinubu's firm backing of the programme's peacebuilding initiative to the president's strong desire for sustainable peace, stability and development in the region and indeed Nigeria.

Otuaro said the President's massive support for the PAP stemmed from his concern for a better and assured future for the people of the Niger Delta, stressing that "a better tomorrow for our region must be secured today through a deliberate peace process that is massively supported by the President."

He told the participants that they were critical partners for peace and stability in the region and that the workshop was aimed at improving their leadership and mediation capacity as peace ambassadors of the programme.

Otuaro, while declaring the worskship open, said, "I am very grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for believing in the peacebuilding initiative undertaken by the PAP in our villages and communities in the Niger Delta.

"Mr President's support has been tremendous, and it shows his profound commitment and dedication to peace, stability and security for the accelerated development and socio-economic advancement in our region.

"So, I want Niger Delta people and all stakeholders to thank Mr President for his remarkable support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the peace process that my leadership has embarked upon in our region.

"As stakeholders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, you (the participants) are worthy ambassadors in the peacebuilding project in our region, and I want you to know that we all have a responsibility to also support Mr President by working assiduously for sustainable peace in and around our communities."

He also extended profound gratitude to the Office of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his "tireless efforts at providing valuable inputs and interventions in the implementation of the programme's objectives."

He assured the participants and other Niger Delta stakeholders of his commitment to his policy of inclusivity, adding that plans were ongoing to empower the region's women "because they were also casualties in the struggle."

The PAP helmsman, therefore, urged the participants to shun all forms of distractions and take active part in the training so they could gain vital lessons that would be useful to them in their roles as peace ambassadors.

Signed:

Mr Igoniko Oduma

Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme

30/07/2025

Opinion: Is Karma Waiting to Happen? By: William Z. Bozimo

When the bible says, “Honour your father and your mother, so that your days may be long,” it isn’t speaking only to biological homes. In the sacred world of sport and especially in football, a coach is a father, an elder, a mentor, a leader, and soul-keeper. If that is true, then one must ask: What spirit did Victor Osimhen invoke when he publicly called out Finidi George? A man who once kissed Nigeria’s flag on foreign soil, a man who helped carry our nation's hopes to its first-ever World Cup in 1994?

Victor Osimhen, our proud Napoli stallion, the man with thunder in his boots and lightning in his veins, is a living symbol of Nigerian youth. Esan by blood, Lagosian by hustle. He is bold, expressive, sometimes brash, and thoroughly adored. But one day, in the heat of online outrage, he said too much and said it too loud. His target? Finidi George. A man whose name is etched into the golden annals of Nigerian football. One of the sacred few who once danced through the streets of Tunis, Atlanta, and France in green and white. 

Finidi George is one of the few who gave this country memories that time cannot erase. And yet, with the team faltering in its World Cup qualification campaign and failing even to beat Lesotho or Zimbabwe, Finidi was suddenly the object of ridicule. Then came Osimhen’s now-infamous Instagram Live, where he claimed that the coach questioned his patriotism. The striker spoke with emotion, anger, and without filters. But did he speak with wisdom? No matter the provocation, was that the tone one takes when addressing a national legend?

Let’s be clear, this isn’t about generational differences, nor is it about club versus country. It isn’t about tribe either. Finidi is Ijaw-Izon stock and Osimhen is Esan. Their disagreement was not of ethnicity, but of ethics, decorum, and the unwritten code that binds teams and nations. But before all that, they are Nigerians. This is not about South-South vs South-South. This wasn’t just player vs coach. This was youth vs elder, Tempo vs tone, Ego vs ethos. This is about the soul of a sport that once unified 200 million people on a dusty Sunday evening.

What of karma? Since that clash, Finidi has resigned. Nigeria’s World Cup dream is now on a tightrope. Even if FIFA strips South Africa of three points for fielding an ineligible player, they still have the advantage. Nigeria has failed to win home games. The Super Eagles are limping. You don’t shout at your coach. You don’t tear your jersey in public. You don’t pour petrol on already tense flames when the Super Eagles are struggling to soar.

If things continue like this, Osimhen may go down in history as the best Nigerian striker never to play in a senior World Cup. Could it be a spiritual reversal, or a footballing karma playing out in real time? We must remember that to build a nation, one must first preserve its fathers; Even football ones. Finidi, who once flew our flag with quiet dignity, now walks away from the national dugout with his legacy questioned. Osimhen on the other hand, who was once African Footballer of the Year, now watches his country’s World Cup hopes slide further from reach. 

Maybe Osimhen’s outburst wasn’t just about Finidi. Maybe it was a cry of frustration. The cry of a lion without a den. But even lions must bow when the elder roars. If Nigeria fails to qualify for 2026, may this moment be studied carefully. Not just by players, but by pundits, politicians and fans. May we ask ourselves: what did we ignore? Who did we insult? And who did we fail to honour? For in football as in life, Karma doesn’t need a passport to attend the World Cup.

Meanwhile, a younger star, Ademola Lookman, now Africa’s reigning king rises with humility and poise. One must ask again: where is our team spirit? Where is our patriotism? Today, too many of our boys play for pay, not for pride. Materialism has replaced nationalism. The boots may be cleaner and the pitches greener, but the hearts are Colder. Yet, let us not only blame this generation. Have we as a nation celebrated our heroes? Did we reward those who bled for the badge? Did we even build a museum to house their memories?

William Z. Bozimo 

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Just-ln: Niger Delta Group accuses Tinubu, Wife of moves to alter INEC Warri delineation report in favour of Itsekiri, says Ijaw will resist it with the last blood

Francis Tayor 

A leading advocacy group in Niger Delta, the Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI has threatened to shut down Niger Delta oil facilities over moves by president Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, first lady Remi Tinubu to alter the Warri federal constituency delineation report in favour of the Itsekiris, despite Ijaws were the majority in the Warri federal constituency.

This was contained in a statement signed by the group's national president Comrade Ozobo Austin in which a copy of it was sent to newsmen in Abuja, on Tuesday.

According to the group, information at its disposal indicates that president Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, first lady have taken over the INEC duty of presiding over the electoral process of Warri delineation to undermine the rights of Ijaw and Urhobo people, adding that Ijaw nation would defend itself with any means possible to them.

The advocacy group accused the president with the manipulative powers of his wife Remi Tinubu (Itsekiri woman) recently withdrew the delineation issues which was presided over by NSA to the office of the Chief staff who is complete Yoruba man to alter and manipulate the earlier released Warri federal constituency delineation report to favour the Itsekiris people.

This, according to IPDI, was a deliberate attempt to favour the Itsekiris at the expense of the Ijaw and Urhobo who are the major stakeholders in the Warri federal constituency. 

The IPDI stated that the move was against the principle of fairness and justice and vowed to resist it with the last drop of blood. 

Comrade Ozobo called on all Ijaws and well-meaning Nigerians to rise up and condemn this act of injustice, stating that the Ijaws will not stand by and watch their rights being taken away by Tinubu's led administration.

He warned that if Tinubu goes ahead with this decision, Ijaw youths will not hesitate to shut down oil facilities in the Niger Delta in order to press home their demands for justice. 

The group also called on former Presidents Olusangun Obasanjo, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Abdusalami Abubakar to call Tinubu and his wife to order and ensure that justice is served in the Warri delineation exercise. 

They also urged the National Boundary Commission to return to their duty of handling the delineation process to prevent further agitation and unrest in the region. 

They also called on the international community to monitor the situation and ensure that justice is served.

The group further threatened that the president and his wife who are Yoruba and Itsekiri refused to heed to caution, Ijaw nation may make Warri ungovernable and the Itsekiris nation may be wiped out from existence.

Opinion: Cultivating a Reading Culture: An Essential Foundation for Visionary Leadership in Nigeria, Does BAT Reads? By: Ebi Kedikumo

Nigeria faces difficulties in its pursuit of visionary leadership, much of which can be traced to the educational backgrounds and reading habits of its leaders. Education is a critical tool for developing strategic thinking and informed decision-making. While BAT has an advantage over  Buhari due to his university education, questions persist regarding his commitment to reading and ongoing self-education. 

The ability to engage deeply with literature and knowledge is crucial for leaders who wish to enhance their governing skills and stay abreast of modern challenges. History offers ample examples, such as Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and even Donald Trump, who maintained regular reading habits to refine their leadership capabilities. After his presidency, Bill Clinton generated over a hundred million dollars through delivering speeches, demonstrating the value of intellectual acumen and thought leadership. Barack Obama, with his bestselling books, not only earned millions but significantly influenced public opinion and policy dialogues. Goodluck Jonathan, who holds a Ph.D., showcases dedication to academic achievement, setting a high benchmark for prospective leaders. 

 In stark contrast, Buhari did not attend university, and his post-presidency period lacked demand for speaking engagements and intellectual contributions. He was never invited to deliver speeches anywhere. 

The prospect of BAT encountering comparable challenges is troubling. A quote from BAT poignantly encapsulates a concerning mindset: "na statistics we go chop.. ?." This attitude underscores a broader issue within Nigeria's leadership realm—a shortage of emphasis on empirical knowledge and data-driven decision-making, which are indispensable for effective policymaking and governance. Leaders equipped with these skills are better positioned to understand and address complex socio-economic issues.

Peter Obi stands out as a well-educated leader who comprehends the intricacies of governance and the importance of continuous learning. He embodies an approach grounded not only on intuition but also informed by substantial reading and practical realities. This quality, cultivated through an active reading culture and intellectual curiosity, allows him to approach challenges with creativity and innovation.

 Unfortunately, this culture is markedly lacking among many Nigerian leaders, including Mr. President and other influential politicians. The absence of commitment to lifelong learning results in a critical lack of creative thinking and fresh ideas, hindering the nation's progress and development.

This deficiency points to a deeper issue within Nigeria's political framework. It is essential for Nigeria to elect leaders who not only possess formal academic qualifications but also demonstrate a robust reading culture, fostering continuous self-education and intellectual growth. Without these attributes, Nigeria risks persistent stagnation, unable to adapt to the evolving global landscape. 

It is crucial for Nigeria to reassess the criteria for attaining key political offices. The current educational requirements are insufficient and do not guarantee proficient leadership. To cultivate relevant and effective governance, the minimum qualification for the presidency or governorship should be elevated to a Master's degree, or higher. This heightened standard would ensure that leaders are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to significantly contribute to the nation's development, even beyond their tenure in office.

Nigeria must demand more from its leadership. Enforcing stricter educational prerequisites and fostering an ingrained reading culture will create a pathway for leaders capable of adeptly navigating the complexities of governance. Such leaders will ensure progress and prosperity for future generations, steering the nation toward a more stable and sustainable future.

Does BAT read?

Just-ln: Niger Delta Chief Rejects Proposed Bill at the Senate to make Sultan and Oni as Permanent Co-Chairman in the Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria

Attention : Senate President, Rt Hon, Godswill Akpabio.

The continues infringement on Traditional Rulers in Nigeria is unacceptable and against the Rights of the indigenous People across tribes, Religion, Culture and Customs.

No permanent Chairmanship for Sultan and Oni only must be allowed in the ongoing bill being discussed in the Senate.

1 Allow the National Council of Traditional Rulers to Appoint their Leadership themselves,  Rotationaly and based on Federal Character.

2. Include the Role of Traditional Rulers into the Constitution.

 

3. No Traditional Ruler from another tribe or religion is superior to another.

4 The National Assembly should Step down the Provocative and dehumanizing offensive Bill that will cause a serious rift and breach of peace in Nigeria

Nengi James, OON is a Rights Advocate/National Coordinator, Association of Rural Chiefs of Nigeria, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

Just-ln: IPF calls on EFCC to investigate Ogbuku, NDDC management over abandoned projects, ghost 10, 000 youth internship scheme among others

The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF), the apex Ijaw media council in Nigeria, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku for alleged mismanagement of funds in the name of Youth Internship scheme tagged the project "HOPE" as Ogbuku claimed that 10,000 selected beneficiaries of the Commission’s Youth Internship scheme received N50,000 monthly stipends, adding that the Ogbuku programmes had no direct impact on the core oil bearing rural and riverine communities as residents of these places in Niger Delta had no Internet or smart phones to register the online programmes.

The Ijaw media Council said up till date, the Ogbuku 10,000 empowered youths remain ghosts and invisible as they threatened to send Ogbuku to jail either now or sooner.

In a statement signed by the spokesman of the Ijaw Publishers' Forum, Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala, copies of which were made available to journalists in Abuja on Monday, said, "There are claims that 10,000 selected beneficiaries of the NDDC’s Youth Internship scheme have been receiving a monthly stipends of N50,000. However, IPF said such projects or programmes were scams with ghost identities being deliberately orchestrated to misappropriate the public funds, "Ogbuku should publish the beneficiaries and their account numbers, including figures allocated to each state in the nine Niger Delta States and criteria for the selection. The people of Niger Delta are eager to know how their money is spent", he emphasised.

"The youth of the Niger Delta deserves better," the statement read. "We cannot allow the funds meant for their development to be mismanaged or siphoned off. We urge the EFCC to act swiftly and investigate funds allocated to Projects 'HOPE' and other unrealistic projects such as the abandoned Udo Ufunama road project in Egbema kingdom, Okwagbe to Ayakoromo overside abandoned road project, abandoned Ayakoromo community concrete pavement road etc of the commission under Dr. Ogbuku to restore public confidence in the NDDC."

The IPF also vowed to continue monitoring NDDC and advocate for accountability and stewardship while encouraging the public to report fraudulent and abandoned projects, and programmes for public scrutiny.

"The Project HOPE was just a mere paper work created to divert funds meant to develop the Niger Delta region, and that it is unparalleled absurdity, broad day robbery and gross corruption of Ogbuku led NDDC for replacing and shortchanged over 10,000 Niger Delta youths with non-existent entities.

"Ogbuku's management of NDDC is terrible, opaque and lacks accountability, Niger Delta people have the rights of benefit from an interventionist agency created to transform their lives and as such it is grave injustice and affront on the Niger Delta people who have been replaced with ghost entities", they added.

Late Pa. Stephen Edoukumo for burial August 21st, at Ayakoromo community in Delta State

Francis Tayor 

The Edoukumo family of Ayakoromo Federated Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has announced the final burial rites of their beloved son, father, grand father, great grand father, teacher and community leader, late Pa. Stephen Edoukumo who slept in the Lord in May 6, 2025 after a brief illness.

According to the burial programme jointly signed by Pastor 

Presley Edoukumor for the family and Hon. Michael Edoukumor (aka) Senator for the children stated as follows:

Wednesday 20th August, 2025 by 5PM: Service of Songs at Stephen Edoukumo family compound, GRA Ayakoromo Community.

Thursday 21st August, 2025 by 12.00PM: Funeral Service at Altar of Fire lnt'l Church located at the market square, Ayakoromo community, Delta State.

_2.PM: Internment Service at Edoukumo family compound GRA, Ayakoromo.

Reception follows immediately at Ngbilebiri Primary School field, Ayakoromo till dawn.

Meanwhile, before his dead at age 86, he was a care giver, dedicated christian and elder at the Altar of Fire lnt'l Church, Ayakoromo. He was a community leader and peace maker in ljaw nation. His love, wisdom and philanthropic kind gesture would be greatly missed by the children, family members, community and ljaw nation at large.

However, Hon. Michael Edoukumo popularly known as the senator on behalf of the children use this medium to invite friends and well wishers to join them on Thursday 21 August, 2025 in order to give their departed father a befitting final farewell, the statement added.