Again, Mulade calls for Developmental Bonds Amongst Ijaw & Itsekiri Nationalities in Delta State

A renowned peace and development advocate in the Niger Delta region, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, Ph.D has urged the Ijaw and the Itsekiri ethnic nationalities of Delta State to foster bonds of unity and friendship so as to attract investors to their areas for positive development and growth.

Comrade Mulade, who is the Ibe Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West council area of the State, made the call while speaking to some leaders from the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups in Warri 

The United Nations peace ambassador appealed to the leaders from both ethnic nationalities to embrace peace, to unite, and to let love lead in their collective pursuit for sustainable development, devoid of bias and ethnic supremacy, which he said "is the only way that we can grow and development our areas."

Speaking further, he sad, "Frankly, we are disgracing ourselves, and it is highly disappointing that many of us are beating the drum of ethnic war for personal interest and recognition.

"Please, we don't need division, but progressive ties that will attract investors and development to our communities," he pleaded.

Comrade Mulade further argued that the Ijaws and the Itsekiris contribute so much to the revenues of both the state and the nation, but are not recognised in terms of infrastructure, worsened by the continued state of acrimony.

"It is imperative to state that the Ijaw and Itsekiri areas in Delta State contribute the highest quota in the oil and gas industry as well as the blue economy, but we are deliberately deprived, neglected and shortchanged from development because of ethnic division and hatred amongst ourselves, which has eluded us", he posited.

"I want to strongly appeal to our revered traditional rulers, political leaders, and stakeholders to allow peace and development thrive"

"We are victims of underdevelopment because of our individual and ethnic pride that is affecting our growth and development. Today, all development efforts are concentrated in the uplands while neglecting the sources of the resources," he lamented.

The Day Nigeria Stood Still as Fela Kuti Farewell in Glass Casket on August 2, 1997 in lkeja, Lagos State

When Fela Anikulapo Kuti died on August 2, 1997, it wasn’t just the death of a man — it was the passing of a movement. Lagos, and indeed much of Nigeria, went silent. But then, it erupted in song, in drums, in tears, and in dance — a final tribute to the Abami Eda.

Days later, a glass casket was placed in the middle of Tafawa Balewa Square. Inside lay the man who had spoken truth to power, the man who defied military regimes with saxophone in hand and fire in his lyrics. It was a sight like no other.

Thousands flooded the venue. Men and women from all walks of life — fans, fellow musicians, market women, even people who had once criticized him — all came to pay their respects. His body, dressed in vibrant Ankara, lay peaceful, as if still listening to the rhythm of Afrobeat echoing from massive loudspeakers.

Some came in full traditional attire, others with fists raised high, chanting:

“FELA! FELA!! FELA!!!”

There were weeping mothers, young students who’d memorized his lyrics, and elders who had danced to his tunes in the 70s. The air was thick with heat, incense, and emotion.

As the sun set, his glass casket was carried through the streets of Lagos in a procession that lasted hours. Traffic stopped. Time slowed. The people of Kalakuta, and Nigeria at large, had come out for their hero.

He was later buried at his home in Ikeja, but his spirit never left.

Fela didn’t just die.

He transitioned.

And in that moment, a nation remembered how deeply one man could shake the system — and still be loved..

Source:

This is Bendel

I AM HOME, DEAR TOMPOLO_By: Enewaridideke Ekanpou Ph.D

On this  land alloted to me three years ago I laboured alone.

I have just dug and mined a treasure!

It is a gold, a gold now awaiting your touch of refinement.

I promised you the net must catch some fish.

On the river bank I did not come to scoop water with a basket.

Tompolo, please let loose your refining touch on the gold like a heavy downpour, keeping the gold drenched and glistened.

A gold is no gold without your  anointed touch.

Tompolo, let the doctor depart to the waiting world with a bag of transformation tranches

Tompolo, let the waiting world see the doctor and smile.

I have done what you decreed me to do and now I am home.

I am now home because every traveller goes home after a journey.

I am now home because to home every bird flies to roost after a journey.

Flags dance when the wind sings soothing songs;

Trees bow when the wind twangs her guitar;

The mother-hen searches for shelter with her children when the wind blesses the earth;

Mortals mouth doctor when the doctor heaves into sight like ship;

To every dance there are

 steps uniquely choreographed.

A doctor has his own rituals, so are the rituals of the mystic who has a foundry hammering out mortals as its relics.

The man decorated doctor without being doctored must be the nunc dimittis for the doctor to leave your sight and transform the waiting world.

The doctor's nunc dimittis must be  a transformation tranch, not the silence-inducement nunc dimittis of Simeon in the book of Luke.

The randy beetle is the gold of both the dead and the living raffia palm trees in the forest.

Touch the doctor, turn the doctor into the randy beetle in the forest.

The world  knows happiness, smiling seamlessly when the randy beetle journeys around the forest.

Raffia palm trees worry no more when the randy beetle cuddles them.

Dear Tompolo, I am back from the bloodless brain battle for branches to bud;

From this bloodless brain battle may branches bud and bind the world like the mustard seed.

All through the creeks I shall gong this bloodless brain battle until all the iguanas are awakened from their legendary deafness.

Dear Tompolo, I am now home with a dug gold as the relic of the journey you decreed me to take on.

Decorated, should I still be home to Akparemogbene as my home?

Or should I be home to your home in your home in the mangrove forest?

Dr. Ekanpou writes from Akparemogbene, Delta State

Egbema Focus Group Charges President Tinubu to call Gov. Oborevwori to Order for spreading falsehood, inciting ethnic tension in Warri North in Delta State

FOCUS EGBEMA GROUP URGES PRESIDENT TINUBU TO CALL DELTA STATE GOVERNMENT TO ORDER

Accuses State of Spreading Falsehoods, Inciting Ethnic Tensions in Warri North

The Focus Egbema Group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently caution the Delta State Government over what it described as a deliberate attempt to incite ethnic crisis between the Ijaw and Itsekiri people in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.

In a statement jointly signed by the Central Coordinator of the group, Comrade Mingo Meshach Sayami Ogumaka, the group condemned a recent publication on the Spotlight Delta Facebook page, which falsely claimed that the Itsekiris are the majority ethnic group in Warri North and misrepresented Ijaw monarchs as mere “clan heads,” while referring to the Olu of Warri as “His Majesty.”

The claim that Itsekiris are the majority tribe in Warri North is false and misleading. The Ijaw people are the majority in Warri North, and this fact is well-documented. Governor Sheriff Francis Oborevwori’s administration should know the actual demographics of his own state, and no official publication should carry false data,” the statement read.

Comrade Sayami stressed that the longstanding disputes between Ijaws and Itsekiris in Warri Federal Constituency have spanned over 30 years and are well known to successive state governments. He accused the current administration of taking sides for political reasons, despite the Delta State Traditional Council laws clearly defining the status of every ethnic nationality’s traditional institution.

Calling an Ijaw throne a clan head is not only insulting but also unlawful. Egbema Kingdom will not bow to intimidation or eye-service judgments. For over 20 years before the administration of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Egbema people were marginalized. Although Okowa brought some relief, the injustice and deprivation have resumed under the current government,” Sayami declared.

The group noted that despite Egbema Kingdom’s position as a major oil-producing area and the largest Ijaw population in Warri North, the people have been denied appointments, projects, and government recognition.

They also referenced the recent Supreme Court judgment that nullified the existing wards and polling units in Warri North and other Warri LGAs as proof that urgent corrective measures are needed to ensure fairness.

Egbema Kingdom’s throne is one of the oldest in Southern Nigeria and the biggest Ijaw kingdom in the Niger Delta. How can a tribe smaller than even one of our clans mislead the government into spreading false information? Governor Oborevwori has visited nearly every other kingdom in Delta State to commission or award projects, yet he has ignored Egbema. He did not even pay a condolence visit when our monarch passed. Truth is bitter, but it must be told — this hatred and bias must end. Egbema people deserve development and respect,” the statement added.

The Focus Egbema Group reaffirmed that Egbema Kingdom will never cede its rightful position to any ethnic group in Warri North after decades of suffering and marginalization, and urged President Tinubu to intervene to ensure peace, equity, and justice in Delta State.

How British Prime Minister, Spencer Perceval was Assassinated in 1812 by John Bellingham while on Seat

The killer spent 6 years being tortured in Russian prisons.

But he wasn't a terrorist or spy.

His motive? Something so shocking it's almost unbelievable:

Let's start with betrayal.

In 1812, Prime Minister Spencer Perceval walked into Parliament like any other day.

Minutes later, he lay dead on the floor—shot through the heart:

The killer didn't flee. He calmly sat down and said:

"I am the person who shot the Prime Minister. My name is John Bellingham."

He wasn't a spy or revolutionary.

He was a merchant with a grudge over...paperwork:

Bellingham was a businessman trading with Russia.

But in 1804, disaster struck:

• He was falsely imprisoned in Russia

• His travel papers confiscated

• And his business destroyed

The British government's response?  "Not our problem."

Bellingham spent 6 brutal years in Russian prisons:

• Tortured regularly

• Nearly died from conditions

• Marched through streets in chains

When he finally escaped to England in 1809, he wanted one thing:

Compensation:

For 3 years, he followed protocol:

• Filed endless petitions

• Wrote every government office

• Begged for hearings

Each response? "Fill out more forms."

Then in April 1812, a civil servant made a fatal mistake...

The civil servant told him:

"You're free to take whatever measures you think proper."

Bellingham took this literally.

He bought two pistols, had a special coat pocket sewn, and waited in Parliament.

At 5:15 PM, Perceval entered.

Bellingham stood, walked directly to him, and fired point-blank into his chest.

The Prime Minister's last words:  "I am murdered!"

The killer sat down and waited for arrest:

The trial stunned England.

Bellingham's defense was simple:

"I tried every legal channel. The government left me no choice."

The shocking part?

Many people sympathized with him:

A French observer wrote:

"You taught ministers they should do justice when asked."

But sympathy wouldn't save him.

After a one-day trial, Bellingham was hanged:

His last words were chilling:

"I feel no hate for Mr. Perceval. But he led the government that refused me justice."

The aftermath changed Britain forever:

• Government reformed complaint systems

• No PM has been assassinated since

• New protections for citizens' rights

Sometimes the deadliest threats aren't enemies...

They're ordinary people pushed too far:

The final irony?

Parliament later investigated Bellingham's claims.

He was right—he was owed compensation.

But it was too late for both the merchant and the Prime Minister he killed over paperwork.

This story isn't just about paperwork or bureaucracy.

It's about what happens when systems meant to serve people become their prison instead.

When efficiency trumps humanity.

When following protocol becomes more important than doing what's right:

Opinion: “The Silence That Sits on Power: A Nigerian HardTalk”_By William Z. Bozimo.

He sits upon the hill where eagles rest, and where the burdens of a bruised republic nest. They call him Jagaban, the Lion, the Sage. Now he governs a land exhausted by age. But where is the roar, the promised flame? Or is this silence part of a longer game? We asked him for a subsidy, and he pulled the plug. Swift and sudden like a magician’s shrug. Yet, people are left in petrol queues feeling famished.

If suffering is now the new down payment for greatness, where then is the blueprint to gauge lateness? Oh, there was once a fire blazing in his campaign chest where talks of reformation and corruption were suppressed. But now the lion paces in careful silence, as wolves return to loot with defiant violence. Is he watching… waiting… and building his case? Or has real power simply fled the place? Can a second term redeem the first? Or will the river drown before it’s nursed?

.

We whispered of Naira’s haemorrhage and theft, and he spoke in riddles, then turned to the left. The Central Bank spins, the Bureau stutters and markets flutter like trapped butterflies in gutters. He understands that politics is a game of breath timing, long silence, and a dance with death. But Nigeria is no chessboard of pawns and kings, so delay invites deeper and darker things. Sir, while you watch the clock and count your foes, the nation limps barefoot on burning coals. 

Nigeria bleeds, not in metaphors alone, but in kidnaps, hunger, and marrow to the bone. Was it calculation or an emergency of will that made restructuring stand so still? Will you wait for re-election applause before justice is unchained and truth gets laws? Strategic patience may win you Abuja's keys, but history listens to broken families’ pleas. You spoke of a good legacy that is expected to begin now, not just in promises tucked in a distant vow, but in true fulfilment. 

Sir, if you must strike, then strike in light, not in backdoor deals or midnight flight. Tell us the plan, even if it burns. Let governance be where transparency returns. Is this the calm before a cleansing storm? Or complacency dressed in seasoned form? For silence may be golden in royal rooms, but very pricey in nations with too crowded tombs. A federation fraying from norm to deform. So please, Mr. Jagaban, arise like a thunder, or history will tear your statue asunder.

Mr. President, there is power in restraint but it's dangerous when restraint turns faint. Delay may suit the tongue of a tactician, but the stomach speaks no such politician. How long shall the poor endure this wait before patience curdles into hate? They say that your eyes are fixed on 2027 but will a second term unleash your might, or simply dim this country’s light? Nigeria is no ladder for cautious ascent, it is a soul in torment. Let this not be the tale of one more king who delayed so long and finally lost everything.

The eagle does not wait to flap its wings, it simply soars when winds and justice sing.

Sir, play the long game if you must, but play it loud, fair, and earn our trust. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Oromoni appreciates Gov. Oborevwori, Delta chairmen of council, traditional rulers, family, friends and well wishers over successful burial of his wife

Francis Tayor 

The Executive Chairman of Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Chief. Sylvester Oromoni has extended his heartfelt gratitude to family and friends, especially the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, Sir. Monday Onyeme, the SSG, Dr. Kingsley Emu, the various LGA council chairmen of the state, traditional rulers, family members, friends, community leaders, the press, members of God's Grace Ministry lnt'l Church Worldwide and well wishers across the country over the successful burial ceremony of his beloved wife and mother of his children, late. Mrs. Evang. Rosemary Oromoni whose burial took place last weekend Saturday 9th August, 2025 at Ogbe-ljoh Warri kingdom.

According to the statement released on Friday 15th August, 2025 and signed by himself, Oromoni said:

" To His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, members of the State Executive Council, my fellow Chairmen of Councils, the Christian body, especially the Bishop and members of God Grace ministry, our dear friends, colleagues, traditional rulers, community leaders, and well-wishers,

" We express our deepest gratitude for your support during the passing and funeral of my beloved wife and mother of our children, Late Mrs. Rosemary Oghevwaire Oromoni. Your presence, prayers, and kind words brought us comfort and strength in our time of grief, making a difficult period slightly more bearable.

" May God bless and reward you abundantly for your kindness and support", the statement added.

Yours sincerely,

Hon. Sylvester Oromoni

Chairman, Warri South West Local Government Council.

2026 lNC Presidential Election: High Chief (Dr.) Se-Alabo Nengi James, A Strong Living Partner in Progress_By: Warefa Pereke

In the dynamic and often challenging landscape of Nigerian politics and society, true leadership is measured not only by words but by a consistent and active partnership in the progressive advancement of civilization. High Chief (Dr) Alabo Nengi James, OON, a distinguished and respected figure, has demonstrated this commitment throughout his career. His bid for the presidency of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) is a powerful call to bring this spirit of partnership and progress to the forefront of the Ijaw nation’s leadership.

Dr. Nengi James is more than a list of titles; he is a man of action who has consistently engaged with the issues that define the modern Ijaw experience. As a career administrator, mediator, and arbitrator, he has honed the skills necessary to build consensus and manage the complex affairs of a large organization like the INC. This administrative prowess is the foundation upon which he has built a reputation as a civil society practitioner, a rights advocate, and a public policy specialist—roles that have seen him actively engage with government and other stakeholders to champion the cause of his people.

His profound commitment to the progressive advancement of civilization is most evident in his pioneering work as an ecologist and environmentalist. Dr. Nengi James is the progenitor of the concept of “Oceanification,” a term he created to describe the devastating encroachment of the ocean on Ijawland and the wider Niger Delta. This is not just a scientific observation; it is a declaration of a critical human rights and environmental crisis. His book on the subject, Oceanification: Environmental, Ecological and Socio-Economic Impact in the Niger Delta, is a testament to his intellectual leadership and his dedication to providing a clear, evidence-based platform for advocacy. By bringing this issue to the national and international stage, he has acted as a living partner in the struggle for the survival of Ijaw communities.

Furthermore, his philanthropic work as the founder of the Nengi James Foundation and his accomplishments as an entrepreneur, show a practical understanding of how to build and sustain a prosperous community. He understands that progress is not just about political power but also about economic empowerment, social justice, and the well-being of every Ijaw man, woman, and child.

His experience as the National Vice President 2 of the Ijaw National Congress and his roles in various other organizations prove that he is not a newcomer to leadership but a seasoned figure who has already been actively shaping the future of his people.

In High Chief (Dr) Nengi James, OON, the Ijaw nation has the opportunity to elect a president who is a genuine partner in progress. He is a leader who has demonstrated a clear understanding of the past, an active engagement with the present, and a compelling vision for the future. His presidency would be a commitment to a new era of proactive, intelligent, and compassionate leadership for the INC, one that is truly dedicated to the progressive advancement of Ijaw civilization.

Ijaw Publishers writes President Tinubu, demands sack of NCDMB Executive Secretary, Agbe over incompetence and ethnic bias

The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) has thrown weight behind Niger Delta stakeholders' called for the removal of the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr Felix Omatsola Ogbe over poor performance and abuse of power, citing incompetence and alleged ethnic bias. 

This was contained in a statement signed by its national president Comrade Ozobo Austin, Comrade Kagbala Ezekiel, Spoksman and Comr Tare Magei, secretary on Friday.

According to the group, the Executive Secretary has failed to promote the renewed agenda of President Bola Tinubu but instead uses his office to advance an Itsekiri agenda.

The Ijaw apex media organization said Agbe was among people fueling the fresh crisis in Warri, turning his office to Olu of Warri private company, where only the Itsekiris were being engaged and empowered.

The IPF alleges that the Executive Secretary has demonstrated incompetence in his role, failing to effectively promote Nigerian content in the oil and gas industry, adding that the Executive Secretary was using his office to promote the interests of the Itsekiri people, rather than working in the best interests of Nigeria and its people.

The IPF had called on President Bola Tinubu to remove the Executive Secretary from office, noting that his removal would help to restore confidence in the NCDMB and ensure that the organization is able to effectively promote Nigerian content in the oil and gas industry.

The IPF urged President Bola Tinubu to put a system to monitor the Nigeria content development board to ensure that public officials work in the best interests of the country and its people, rather than advancing personal or ethnic agendas.

The media chieftains said the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) was established to maximize the participation of Nigerians in oil and gas activities, integrating oil-producing communities into the value chain, fostering institutional collaboration, building local capacity, and linking the oil and gas sector to other sectors of the economy, emphasised that Agbe has failed, refusing to engage and build capacity among Ijaw and Urhobo critical stakeholders of the oil producing communities.

They maintained that Agbe instead of delivering on his mandate of focusing on maximizing the utilization of Nigerian resources (goods, services, and assets), attracting investment, and promoting local manufacturing and service provision, he now used the government funds to building ethnic militia groups against Ijaw and Urhobo people in Delta State.

The group stressed that Agbe activities now posed several threats to the peace in Niger Delta, citing that he had abandoned his duty of monitoring and evaluating the performance of operators and service providers to ensure compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act. 

The Ijaw media council threatened to stage a mother of all protests to shut down the local content head office in Bayelsa to force him out of office if the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu treats their call for the removal of Agbe with levity.

Controversial Ibom Air Passenger, Comfort Emmanson regains freedom as police withdraw charges

passenger accused of assaulting an Ibom Air staff on Sunday, Comfort Emmanson, has been released after a Lagos court struck out the five-count charge against her.

At a brief hearing on Wednesday, Magistrate Olanrewaju Salami of the Samuel Ilori Courthouse, Ogba, Lagos, dismissed the case following the decision of the Lagos Airport Police Command to withdraw the charges unconditionally.

Police prosecutor, Inspector Olubunmi Adeitan told the court the withdrawal was based on new facts presented to the command after Monday’s arraignment.

Just-ln: N'Delta Peace Advocate and Activist, Mulade Bags Ph.D. in International Relations

Renowned Delta State-born peace and development advocate, *Comrade (Chief) Mulade Sheriff*, has earned a *Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in International Relations* from the prestigious Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.

A United Nations Peace Ambassador, environmentalist, human rights activist, sports enthusiast, entrepreneur, educational promoter, and social leader, Dr. Mulade is the National Coordinator of the foremost civil rights organisation, *Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ)*, also known as the *Africa 4 Peace Centre.*

This remarkable academic feat once again demonstrates his unwavering zeal for intellectual excellence, further cementing his reputation as a visionary leader committed to peace, justice, and development, through the instrumentality of the pursuit and acquisition of knowledge.

As he takes this leap from local, state, and national engagements to a more pronounced presence on the international stage, Nigerians can look forward to the far-reaching impact of his knowledge, which promises to translate into global opportunities for the nation and beyond.

Featured Article: Only The Giants Could Stand This Long_By William Z. Bozimo

Some people crumble under a whisper of crisis. What about Nigerians? We have stared down hurricanes at high noon and kept walking as though, it was only harmattan dust in our eyes. From the marble corridors of Aso Rock to the cracked pavements of forgotten villages, leadership has come and gone like a revolving door. Yet, here we stand scarred but upright.

We have worn the crown of economic hardship for so long that it has begun to feel like an aged inheritance. The naira, our child, is rationed to us like contraband. Still, we line up at the banks, hats in hand, and leave with a shrug. What about Food scarcity? The market woman now counts each tomato like a jeweller weighing diamonds, but somehow, the stew finds its taste.

Insecurity stalks our highways, markets and farmlands like a shadow that will not lift. Yet the buses still load passengers, the markets still supply all items for human survival, and the farmers still sow seed in the ground and harvest their crops in due season against all odds. We have seen the subsidy removed, pumps run dry, and the price of fuel leap like a startled gazelle. Nonetheless, the Danfos still roar through the city with their ever-buzzing horn challenging the very air we breathe to stop them.

Some nations collapse under one burden. We have carried a dozen and still find the strength to dance at weddings, cheer at football goals, and trade jokes over roasted corn. I salute all the hawkers manoeuvring and struggling through gridlock, the nurses on a night shift with fuel bought at black-market prices, the farmer planting with faith that his harvest will survive the road home and all the legit hustlers.

Nigerians, I tip my hat to you. You have proven that only giants can endure such gigantic trials. But perseverance is not the same as progress. We cannot make a national religion of suffering. If we treat hardship like heritage, our children will inherit the same pain. If we have endured storms that would sink vessels, imagine what we could achieve under leaders with vision.

To escape this cycle, we must stop voting with anger or nostalgia alone. Instead, we should demand competence louder than we demand slogans, and we have to question every sweet-tongued saviour: Where were you when the ship was sinking? Our rescue lies in the obduracy to build with our own hands, and not just foreign dreams. Again, the discipline to punish all failure at the ballot box and hold our leaders liable is the way to go, moving forward.

Now, let us steer for calmer waters and vow never again to sail blind into the same storm.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Ibom Airline Saga: Aviation Minister, Keyamo intervenes, orders withdrawal of assault case against Comfort Emmanson

PRESS STATEMENT: 

DECISION TO WITHDRAW CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST MS. COMFORT EMMANSON AND TO ADDRESS RELATED MATTERS

1. In the last 48 hours, I have been in consultation with critical stakeholders in the Aviation Sector and those involved in the unfortunate incidents regarding the unruly behaviours of certain individuals at our airports of recent.

2. Though regrettable, we think valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides to these incidents and airport security protocol, especially, have been well highlighted for the travelling public. If nothing at all, the episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space.

3. As highlighted in my previous statements on the last two incidents, clear wrongs were committed by both the offending passengers and staff of the airlines involved from all the evidence available to us and those available to the public. It is clear that all the actors involved cannot continue to highlight the injury or injustice done to them without acknowledging their own equal culpability. 

5. Therefore, after reviewing the entire incidents, including appeals made by well-meaning individuals and remorse shown by the actors, the following decisions have been reached: 

THE CASE OF IBOM AIRLINE AND MS. COMFORT EMMANSON

(a) In the case of the unruly passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, on the Ibom Airline on Sunday, the 10th of August, 2025, I have conferred with Ibom Airline to withdraw the Complaint against her today. When the Police took her Statement in presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct. 

(b) Subsequent to the withdrawal of the complaint by the Complainant, the CP of Airport Command and the Police Prosecutor will immediately take the remaining steps to facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons within this week. 

(c) I have also conferred with the leadership of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and have appealed to them to lift the life-time flying ban imposed on her, to which they agreed. The details of the resolution will be made public by the AON subsequently. 

THE CASE OF VALUEJET AND WASIU AYINDE MARSHALL (KWAM 1)

(d) In the case of KWAM 1, the NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.

(e) Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the Police. 

(f) In the case of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba of VALUEJET, the NCAA is to restore their licenses after the same period of one-month ban after undergoing some mandatory professional re-appraisal. The details will be announced by the NCAA.

AIRLINE OPERATORS, AVIATION AND OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 

6. I have directed all relevant Aviation agencies in collaboration with other complementary agencies outside aviation to IMMEDIATELY begin a retreat NEXT WEEK to properly retrain and prepare our Aviation security personnel on how to deal with errant and disruptive passengers and how to deescalate potentially explosive situations. The retreat will be fully covered by the Press with the opportunity to ask all the relevant questions. 

7. The Airlines will also have their own session when the conduct and attitude of their staff towards members of the travelling public will be in full focus. 

FINAL COMMENTS

8. These above decisions were taken by Government and the airline operators purely on COMPASSIONATE grounds as Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved. 

9. We are also sending a CLEAR MESSAGE that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies. 

FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK)

Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Itsekiri nation didn't embrace amnesty program for Niger Delta ex-agitators, what it enjoys is a privilege not a right _IPDI

IJAW PEOPLE'S DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE, IPDI

Press Statement 

10th August, 2025

ITSEKIRI DIDN'T EMBRACE AMNESTY PROGRAMME, WHAT IT ENJOYS IS A PRIVILEGE NOT A RIGHT

Our attention has been drawn to a pseudo and non-existent Itsekiri group under the camouflage of Warri Youth Council, WYC, to blackmail the revered and most performing administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro. We are not perturbed of their criminal agenda, knowing fully well the Presidency and all well-meaning Niger Delta people could attest for the credible performance of Dr Otuaro. It is becoming evident that the incessant attacks by the Itsekiri on the Administrator of the PAP Dr. Otuaro is borne out of primordial sentiments because he is a Gbaramatu Ijaw man.

However, it is ignorance that makes the cat to attack a lion for a fight and believe that they are of the same breed if they all have black spotted skins, what the Itsekiris miscreants and mischief makers do not know is that IPDI is a revered rights advocacy group, known for its proactiveness in the defense of Niger Delta rights against oppression and marginalization over the years, so describing IPDI as faceless group is laughable and it shows the level of ignorance among Itsekiri youths.

It is succinct to state unequivocally that Itsekiris are trouble makers, being descendants of a banished prince Giniwa of Benin. We are still maintaining our earlier stand that the itsekiris were not part of the Presidential Amnesty Programme during the proclamation but they were later considered and included into the Amnesty Programme  following an appeal by their daughter who was married to the late National Security Adviser, Gen Owoye Andrew Azazi. We state further that the Itsekiri should not abuse the privilege but be grateful to Dr Otuaro for the additional slots given to them to add to the earlier Five Hundred Slots.

We wish to reiterate that no disarmament and demobilization of the presidential Amnesty programme was held in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, the first, second and third phases of the programme were held in Agbarho and 3 battalions in Delta State.

The Itsekiris only submitted a political list of their Five hundred slots given to them by the then administrator of the program, Dr Kingsley KuKu, and that should not in any way be seen as disarmament. 

It is an abrupt and reckless attempt by the Itsekiris to now forcefully be crying for inclusion through blackmail, the Itsekiris, who distanced themselves from the Presidential Amnesty Programme only to have a change of mind after seeing the success of the program do not merit a single slot. We are aware that they wrote several publications to applaud the federal government for disarming the Ijaw people, alleged that the Ijaw killed their people. They stated further that Itsekiris were not militants and will not embrace the program, stressing that their youths were enlightened, educated and peaceful but unfortunately the same people are now shamelessly crying for inclusion. It is public knowledge that the Itsekiris declined the Presidential Amnesty granted by the late President Yar Adua. Anyone who is interested can access the body of information in the public domain.

The Itsekiris can't eat their cake and have it. They are a people of double standard, they speak with both sides of their mouths. We are not surprised about the new tactics and strategy of these ungrateful lots. One may be tempted to ask whether their monarch, the Olu of Itsekiri is providing guidance to the Itsekiri youths, or is he the one instigating them because it is playing out that the average Itsekiri youth is lacking guidance.

It is worthy of note that it was not the National Assembly that compelled the then administrator Dr KuKu to accept the Itsekiris into the amnesty program, their petition failed. The National Assembly after hearing from KuKu saw that the Itsekiri didn't have a case, the then National Assembly only appealed to President Jonathan and Hon. Kuku on humanitarian grounds for the Itsekiris to be included on the basis of impacted community and 500 places was negotiated for them, case was dismissed.

Also their daughter who was married to the then NSA, late General Owoye Andrew Azazi influenced with the appeal. Those slots were given to the Itsekiris for training and not for monthly stipends. It is dubious and criminal to claim otherwise, more so when such claims are predicated on overseas scholarships. Not even those who paid the ultimate price for the Niger Delta struggle lay claim to such exclusivity.

The Itsekiri nation is known for blackmail, mischief making, campaign of calumny, envy. The relentless attacks and pull down attitudes against Dr. Otuaro, is a script by the Itsekiris well known to Niger Deltans and the rest of Nigeria. The PAP Administrator shouldn't be detered nor respond to such correspondences which are full of lies and more lies. They cannot cow him to get what they want. He is a son of the struggle and can't be derailed by blackmail and peddling of falsehoods by the Itsekiris.

We wish to state again that it is not the Itsekiri's right to benefit from the Presidential Amnesty Program since they were not part of those captured by the Presidential Amnesty ab initio, what they enjoy now is a privilege given to them by the magnanimity of President Goodluck Jonathan Presidency. It is not the Itsekiri that produces the bulk of crude oil in the Niger Delta, the Ijaws are the major producers of oil revenue to the federal coffers and not the Itsekiris. So it is mischievous for them to claim PAP delegates are being paid with oil money from Itsekiri. It is an empirical and irrefutable truth to say the funds are derived from Ijaw land and not from Itsekiri.

We state again that the Itsekiri does not have the monopoly of violence, and can't threaten to cow constituted authorities with threats to achieve their selfish demands, no body is afraid of protest, if they like the full Itsekiri nation should go to Abuja to protest, since it is their stock in trade. They don't build nor create, just like the biblical story that took place in King Solomon's palace, 1 Kings 3:16 - 28 of the woman who falsely claimed to be the mother and wants the child cut into two while the true mother with love wanted the baby to be intact and alive even if it means losing the child momentarily, the Itsekiris inherently loves to lay false claims, throughout their history subterfuge has been adopted and elevated  as statecraft and when they fail they opt for destruction. It is an evil that must be called for what it is and be stopped.

The Itsekiri nation should not provoke the Ijaw youths, we can match them quid pro quo and make a quick walk over them from anywhere they are protesting against Dr Otuaro if the need arises.

We are using this medium to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly and the National Security Adviser to caution the Itsekiris and their youths, if the government fails to call them to order, their activities may disrupt peace and stability in the Niger Delta.

Signed:

Comrade Ozobo Austin 

National president.

Peter Luke

National Secretary.

Eulogies and tears as late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni laid to rest in Ogbe-ljoh Warri kingdom, Delta State

Francis Tayor 

On Saturday August 9th, 2025 over the weekend, the remains of the wife of the Executive Chairman of Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, late Mrs. Evang. Rosemary Sylvester Oromoni where laid to rest at her husband's compound Ogbe-ljoh Warri kingdom amidst eulogies and tears.

The funeral attracted great personalities from all walks of life, including politicians, business magnets, legal luminaries, the clergy among others from far and near across Niger Delta region in particular, and Nigeria at large who all came to pay their last respect to the deceased.

The late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni was a renowned humanitarian, a highly dedicated, faithful and committed member of the commission God's Grace Ministry lnt'l Church, Warri.

The corpse of late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni was conveyed from Safe Haven Mortuary warri in a motorcade by the Oromoni family and members of the God's Grace Ministry lnt'l Church led by the Bishop of the whole world who was ably represented by His Lordship, Rt. Revd. Evang. Jesutekevwe Samuel MiyeriJesu, the Assistant Bishop of the whole world alongside the Mother General of the whole world, Evang. Mrs. Ogheneyovwire Evelyn MiyeriJesu and the Senior Venerable, Revd. Evang. AtiabokiJesu Matthew MiyeriJesu arrived Ogbe-ljoh at about 10:30AM for lying in state at her husband's compound for funeral service.

In his sermon at the crusade like open air funeral service, His Lordship, Rt. Revd. Evang. Jesutekevwe MiyeriJesu described late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni as a great humble and gentle woman that made positive impact in the church in particular, and the society at large.

Bishop Jesutekevwe said resurrection and judgement were at hand, hence he admonished believers as well as sinners for a positive change of heart as there is no repentance in the grave.

He pray God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest, while consoling her husband and the children to take solace in the Bible that their mummy is sleeping in the Lord. Bishop Jesutekevwe concluded by charging the children to immortalize their late mother legacy by promoting the good traits she radiated while on earth.

Immediately after the sermon and funeral service in accordance to the doctrine of God's Grace Ministry lnt'l Church Worldwide, the remains of Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni was taken to the graveside by the church marshalls and interred at about 1:45PM.

Late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni died at the age of 57, leaving behind her husband, 9 children, 4 grandchildren and many relatives too numerous to mention.

The children in their various glowing tributes, described their late mother as a woman of faith, motivator, hardworking, cheerful, prayer warrior and a great pillar who has left a legacy that is worthy of emulation.

In his tribute, the eldest son, Hon. Keyness Orohdje Oromoni, who is Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the governor of Delta State on Oil and Gas lamented the early departure of his mother, stressing that she left at a time he needed her most. He expressed disbelief that his beloved mother is gone forever, while praying God to accept her gentle soul to rest in perfect peace in His bosom, Keyness stated.

While Hon. Trust Edumogiren in his tribute, described late Mrs. Rosemary Oromoni as a peaceful and benevolent woman who until her death was a mother to the motherless and the needy in the society who lived her entire life in serving God and humanity. He acknowledged that the deceased was a cheerful giver and never renders help to somebody in anticipation for payback. She would be greatly missed by the children, her husband, the church and the entire Oromoni family at large, Edumogiren asserted.

However, at the grand reception in warri, husband of the deceased, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni who is the Executive Chairman of Warri South-West LGA, Delta State was joined by friends, politicians, business magnets, legal luminary, clergy men and well wishers across Nigeria to celebrate with him over the successful burial of his beloved wife.

The distinguished guests where well treated with specially garnished variety of foods, assorted drinks among others.

The sympathizers where musically entertained by the melodious tunes and voice of a renowned Niger Delta born gospel music artist, Dr. Asu Ekiye as he performs magically to the amazement of the mammoth crowd that graced the reception.

Amongst some of the notable dignitaries in attendance include; High Chief. (Engr.) Kestin Pondi, MD Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief. Tunde Smooth, the Bolouwei of Niger Delta, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the Delta State Government, High Chief. Waylace, Sen. James Manager, Hon. Daniel Mayuku, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Jnr, Hon. Daniel Renieju, Hon. Prince Lucky Youbogha, Barr. George Turnah, Dr. Braduce Angozi Ph.D, Femi Falana (SAN), Chief. Favour Izoukumo, Capt. Let Themsay, Chief. Boro Opudu, Hon. Dan Yingi, Hon. Godwin Edumogiren, Sir. Clement Moni, Hon Chief. Frank Omare, Hon. Andaye Dagidi, Chairman Bomadi LGA, Hon. Julius Takeme, Chairman Burutu LGA, Mr. Harry Song, Hon. Chief. Ebikeme Clark, Olorogun (Barr.) Egbo Jaro, Chairman Ughelli North LGA e.t.c.