Engr. Kestin Pondi Appreciates ljaw Nation, Families, Friends, Well Wishers on Successful Burial Rites of his Late Father ln-law

Note of Appreciation on the Successful Funeral Ceremony of Late Capt. William John Ayegbene Elaweremi (1938–2025)

On behalf of myself, my wife, Chief Mrs. Blessing Pondi, and our children, I express our profound appreciation to the general public—particularly our friends, family, and communities across the board—who stood with us to ensure that my late father-in-law, Capt. William John Ayagbene Elaweremi (1938–2025), was accorded a befitting burial on the 5th of December 2025, as he journeyed home to join his ancestors at the noble age of 87.

We remain overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, commitment, and generous contributions extended to us. Beyond institutional support, we also wish to recognise all individuals, families, groups, and communities who gave generously in diverse forms—from livestock to logistics. To those who donated cows, rams, drinks, water, food supplies, houseboats, wrappers, survenir and other materials in support of the burial activities, we say thank you. Your benevolence helped us provide hospitality befitting the memory of our father, and we shall never forget it.

We are deeply grateful to the high-powered delegation of the Delta State Government, ably led by His Excellency, Chief (Sir) Monday Onyeme, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, who graciously paid a condolence visit to our family upon receiving news of our loss. I also extend my sincere gratitude to my brother and friend, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, and the entire members of the House for not only sending gifts in support of the burial but also attending the funeral ceremony in large numbers. This touching gesture is deeply appreciated and will never be taken for granted.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the members of the Delta State Executive Council for their collective support, as well as to the Honourable Members of the House of Representatives who attended the burial ceremony. We are equally grateful to the delegation of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly led by its Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere. Your presence meant a great deal to us.

Permit me to specially acknowledge my beloved brothers, allies, and friends who stood firmly by me throughout the planning stages of the funeral:

Mr Matthew Tonlagha; Chief Godfrey Tare Pondi; Rt. Hon. Julius Gbabojo Pondi, PhD; High Chief Dennis Otuaro, PhD; Paul Bebenimibo, PhD; High Chief Ekomieyefa Uduboh; Uncle George Ekpemupolo; High Chief Boro Opudu; Mr Harrison Oyegbenighe Izeh; Chief Moses Bebenimibo; High Chief Matthew Pudie; Hon. Chief Kome Okpobo; Chief Fezigha Odu; Chief Ebimobowei Oguma; Martins Otuedon, PhD; and others too numerous to mention. Your unwavering support strengthened us immensely.

My gratitude also extends to the Gbaramatu and Ogulagha Traditional Councils of Chiefs; High Chief Tunde Smooth, the Bolouwei of Niger Delta; His Excellency, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, former Deputy Governor of Delta State; Maj. Gen. Lawrence Fejokwu (Rtd); Dr Hilary Ebegbulem; representatives of ALGON, Delta State; the Commanding Officers of 3 Battalion and 181 Battalion; the Commanding Officer, NNS Delta; Mr Zenco; Mr Obi Cubana; Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress, and his cabinet; the delegation of the Ijaw Youth Council under the leadership of Jonathan Olokpobiri Snr; and the Isoko National Youth Assembly led by Comr. Eniwareke Orogun.

We also appreciate our extended family from Isoko South and Isoko North, led by Chief Prosper Edo and Mr Sam Uyeri respectively.

To the Burial Planning Committee under the distinguished chairmanship of High Chief Kenneth Braimoh Oboku, we remain grateful for your diligence, organisational skill, and the thoughtful strategies that ensured the smooth and successful execution of the entire programme.

We extend profound appreciation to the communities of Ogulagha and Gbaramatu Kingdoms for the financial, moral, and cultural support rendered. Your collective expression of love was exceptional and truly unprecedented. In particular, we thank the communities of Sokebolou, Ayakoromo and Kurutie for their remarkable effort in assembling a boat regatta to showcase our rich cultural heritage, travelling considerable distances to add colour and pride to the ceremony.

Special appreciation goes to the Itsekiri Tantita family under the distinguished leadership of Comr. Esimaje Awani. Your show of love, unity, and cultural expression remains a powerful symbol of cohesion and progress among our people.

We equally appreciate the men, women, and youths who volunteered their time, labour, and skills, working tirelessly day and night to ensure every stage of preparation and execution was successful. Many offered their boats for transportation, cultural procession, logistics movement, and ceremonial display—a gesture of immense value that greatly enhanced the beauty, fluidity, and grandeur of the event.

Your selflessness—whether expressed through financial input, physical involvement, cultural performance, or material contributions—remains one of the greatest pillars upon which this successful funeral ceremony stood.

To my co-in-laws Lambert Odudu, Prester Smooth, Weris Orou, Sunday Okpodudu and Mr. Paul Akari; your dedication, teamwork, and cooperation made it easy for this funeral ceremony to be a huge success. God bless you.

We may never be able to mention every name or account for every act of kindness, but please be assured that we saw, we felt, and we deeply appreciate all you did. May the goodwill you extended return to you in multiplied measure.

May God bless you all.

Regards,

High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, FNSE, FNIIS

The Ibebenimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom

The Dikeremowei of Ogulagha Kingdom

Managing Director, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd

Just-ln: IPF berates House of Reps threat on Otuaro, cautions against stepping beyond their oversight functions

Francis Tayor 

In what they described as a deliberate attempt to undermine ljaw illustrious sons holding strategic political office in the country, the apex ljaw media body under the aegis of ljaw Publishers Forum, IPF, has expressed dismay over the recent House of Representative move to malign the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro to appear before the house in order to give account of how N26billion was spent, stressing that Otuaro was not in office when such money where mismanaged.

The media executives said Dr. Otuaro is not answerable to the House of Representative, rather it is the duty of the EFCC to go after anyone with record of financial embezzlement case.

The body made the declaration on Monday at Warri, during a Press briefing stated that the House of Representative should thread with caution, adding that any attempt to undermine the personality of Dennis Otuaro would lead to catastrophic in the Niger Delta region.

According to the statement signed by Comrade Austin Ozobo, President and Comrade Tare Magbei, Secretary stated as follows:

The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) expresses deep concern over the 72-hour ultimatum issued by the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, alongside threats of issuing a warrant for his arrest. While Sections 88, 89, and 128 of the 1999 Constitution empower the National Assembly to conduct oversight functions, we strongly appeal for caution in applying these powers to a programme as delicate as the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

It is necessary to state clearly that the news and allegations being referenced by the Committee relate to an Amnesty Audit Report of 2021, a period long before Chief Dr. Otuaro assumed office. Chief Otuaro was appointed in 2024, and therefore should not be associated with issues arising from an audit that predates his tenure by several years. Any attempt to use a 2021 report to malign a 2024 appointee is misleading and raises concerns about the true intent behind the current aggression.

This action, coming after claims of six invitations, carries the markings of yet another sponsored political attack targeted at an Ijaw son who has distinguished himself in national service.

The Presidential Amnesty Programme remains a special security initiative established under the exclusive constitutional authority of the President. It was not created through legislative consultation but through direct presidential action because of its sensitive nature.

Otuaro Has Stabilised the Niger Delta

Since assuming office in 2024, Dr. Otuaro has restored confidence in the PAP by strengthening peace in the Niger Delta, revitalising dialogue mechanisms, and enhancing cooperation among stakeholders. His leadership has contributed to improved national oil output through sustained calm in host communities. These gains deserve recognition, not persecution.

The attempt to isolate and harass an individual who has contributed so meaningfully to national stability raises serious questions about the motives behind the current probe.

Selective Oversight: Why Only the Ijaw?

The IPF finds it troubling that the same House that now shows unusual urgency in threatening arrest has shown little interest in questioning top officials who publicly sympathise with terrorists and bandits who have caused bloodshed across Nigeria, yet in the case of Dr. Otuaro, a performing Administrator who has sent thousands of PAP delegates to school and consistently engaged critical stakeholders, the House has drawn its sword swiftly. This cannot be dismissed as coincidence. It reflects a troubling pattern of selective aggression against the Ijaw nation and the wider Niger Delta.

We emphasize that threatening to arrest Dr. Dennis Otuaro, a respected figure among ex-agitators, risks provoking anger and destabilising the fragile peace currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta. Such actions pose a direct threat to national security and must be avoided.

It must also be noted that Otuaro’s only so-called offence is that he sanitised the PAP payroll. Those who exploited the system and lost illegitimate benefits are the same people sponsoring protests and petitions locally and internationally. Certain ethnic groups that publicly disowned any link to militancy during the armed agitation in the Niger Delta have suddenly reinvented themselves as ex-agitators because of the benefits that PAP provides.

This same group has never supported any progressive effort in the Niger Delta. They opposed the creation of Delta State; Warri South-West LGA; Ogbe-Ijoh as headquarters; the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko; and even the Tantita surveillance contract that has helped reduce oil theft. Their pattern is consistent: oppose anything that uplifts the Ijaw people.

A Deliberate Attempt to Undermine the Niger Delta and Ijaw Nation

The current development fits into a broader pattern of attempts to undermine the Niger Delta. Whenever peace begins to take root and oil production stabilizes, certain national and sectional interests attempt to destabilize progress and discredit those delivering results.

The IPF will not remain silent while the image of the Ijaw nation is attacked under the pretext of oversight.

Nigeria Faces Larger Crises

Nigeria is battling insecurity, hunger, unemployment, inflation, and collapsing public systems. The House should focus on national emergencies rather than chasing a sensationalised agenda against a man whose work has positively impacted thousands of youths and contributed to national peace and revenue stability.

The nation is burning; the legislature must not become a tool for elements who do not seek the country's good.

Our Demands

The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) calls on the House of Representatives to:

1. Step down its current aggressive posture and conduct oversight with fairness and without bias.

2. Avoid actions that could destabilise the fragile peace in the Niger Delta, particularly when the PAP is recording success under Otuaro’s leadership.

3. Prioritise urgent national issues such as insecurity, the soaring cost of living, and failing institutions.

4. End the pattern of selective harassment targeted at Ijaw leaders and Niger Delta institutions.

Conclusion

The IPF stands firmly with Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro. We reject intimidation, selective justice, and politically motivated persecution of Ijaw people.

Peace in the Niger Delta is a national asset, and it is flourishing under Otuaro’s stewardship. We therefore urge all actors to refrain from dragging hardworking leaders into manufactured controversies. The House of Representatives must act with restraint, fairness, and a genuine sense of national duty.

Signed:

For Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF)

Comrade Austin Ozobo, National President

Comrade Tare Magbei, General Secretary.

Opinion: SOCIETY’S QUIET TRUTHS_By William Z. Bozimo

Some people never raise their voices, yet their silence carves deeper cuts than any insult. They will smile, nod, and step aside, but behind all that courtesy lies a forest of unspoken anger. But since the world has taught them that truthfulness is trouble, they learned the art of soft harm. In their quietness, storms gather. In their “it’s fine,” they actually feel like collapsing cities. The loud ones bruise your skin, but the polite ones bruise your spirit.

Some individuals always argue that everybody is equal, but when we all watch closely in every room, a silent ladder still stands taller. Some climb with confidence, while others wait for permission. But a few still pretend that they don’t notice any difference. The term hierarchy is a shadow that never leaves the human essence and every friendship has captains. Likewise, all families have unspoken regulations, every workplace has kings who wear no crowns, and those who truly know and understand this invisible structure will navigate life with fewer collisions.

Some people can adore you under the spotlight, but shrink the moment your light grows brighter while they toast to your success, trembling. They can repost your achievements in the day, but whisper doubts in their heart at midnight. The human heart maintains strange mathematics at times and that is why your success can make some people feel like they are declining and so, jealousy and love will regularly be drunk from the same cup as they clap for you to hide their quivering fingers.

People also walk through life carrying storms under their coats. They laugh loudly so their tears don’t echo. They work tirelessly so their thoughts don’t wander. Saying “I’m okay” is not a lie but a shield. Just because we live in a world that rewards mostly strength and penalises vulnerability, people learn to drown quietly. Some society values a well-packaged emptiness and love to give audience to the beautifully shallow, then sideline the deeply wise. 

Because the world listens first with its eyes before its ears, talent often waits in the corner while charisma walks the red carpet. Society confuses volume for wisdom so the loudest voices walk ahead while the most thoughtful ones carry the lamp from behind. In some meetings, noise is mistaken for clarity; and in politics, shouting has become a strategy. But history has shown that it is never the loud river that shapes the valley, it is the patient one.

We often obey implicit rules without understanding them and they soon become shadows passed from one generation to another without first questioning them to help us uncover our freedom. Every society has laws that everyone seems to follow such as you don’t outshine the elder, try not to disagree with people too openly, don’t be too ambitious, and don’t always be too truthful. Society’s silent truths are often whispered in corridors, learned through experience, and etched into the heart through heartbreak, growth, and observation.

Your evolution is a mirror. Some people do not hate your progress, but they dislike what it reveals about themselves. Every step you take forward in life reminds someone of the steps they refused to accept and they pull away. It is not because you changed, but your growth exposes their stagnation.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Late. Capt. William Elaweremi Sails Home in a Golden Casket, as Niger Deltans Storm Ayakoromo in Solidarity with Engr. Kestin Pondi to Bury his Father in-law in a Grand style

Francis Tayor

Ayakoromo Federated Community went agog over the weekend as family, friends, business associates, politicians, sympathizers and well wishers from all walks of life across Nigeria trooped out in their numbers to join the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, FNSE, to bid his beloved father in-law, late Pa Capt. William Ayagbene Elaweremi a befitting final burial rites.

The historic carnival like event took place on Friday December 5th, 2025 at the deceased compound GRA, Ayakoromo Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

The dignified burial ceremony creates an avenue to unite illustrious sons and daughters of ljaw nation as well as great successful business men from the Eastern part of Nigeria including the popular Anambra born billionaire Hotelier/Housing Estates developer, Odogwu Obi Cubana alongside Zenco the great.

Other notable Niger Delta born business moguls and politicians that attended the burial include, High Chief. Tunde Smooth, the Bolouwei of Niger Delta, Dr. Baraduce Angozi, Sen. James Manager, High Chief. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme, Sir. Matthew Tonlagha, Chairman Maton group of companies, Sir. Clement Moni, Chairman Seiya group of companies, Barr. Dcn. Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor, Delta State, Chief. Dan Yingi, Barr. George Turnah,Snr. Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Funfeyin, Chief. Kenneth Brabo Obogu who happens to be the Chairman of the burial committee, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori Jnr, son of the Executive Governor of Delta State, Engr. Michael llfeanyi Anoka, Commissioner Urban Renewal Delta State,, Chief. Barrister Smooth, the paddle of Niger Delta, Sir. Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, National President ljaw Youth Council, Prof. Ogele Benjamin Okaba, National President lNC, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, CEO CEPEJ, Chief. Boro Opudu, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Chief. Bosin Ebikeme, Hon. George Ekpemupolo, High Chief. Godspower Gbenekama, Chief. Godfrey Tare Pondi among others too numerous to mention.

Meanwhile, over twenty seven (27) members of the Delta State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, members of Bayelsa State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobiri and members of the Federal House of Representative led by Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi also graced the occasion.

Moreover, the remains of the late. Capt. William Elaweremi voyaged home at about 9:25AM on Friday morning Via Miller Jetty NPA Warri in a golden casket onboard twin barges where the Numu-pere of lsaba kingdom, Prince Abraham Donokoromo, popularly known as lsaba Abraham thrilled distinguished guests numbering over twenty thousand with captivating ljaw owigiri high life music in a slow and steady mood down to Ayakoromo.

The corpse arrived Ayakoromo at about 5:50PM for a social night wake keeping according to the ljaw culture and tradition in honour and respect to a great man whose exemplary lifestyle and good legacy continues to inspire the loved one he left behind.

At the night fanfare, both ljaw and Nigeria R/B super stars as well as comedians performed to thrilled the mammoth crowed with good melodies and comedy.

Among the artists include, super star Face of the former plantation Boyz, Lizgberg lzontubo, Alfred lzon-Ebi alias Jking, Kingsley Takemebo among other side attractions.

However, in the early hours of Saturday 6:AM precisely, funeral mass service was conducted by priests from St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Ayakoromo and prayers where offered for the soul of the deceased to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord.

The remains of the deceased was interred at about 7:20AM amidst tears by children, in-laws, wives and other relatives in a solemn assembly at the graveside, marking the end of an era of a great man.

Finally, thanksgiving service was held on Sunday December 7, for the successful burial rites of the octagenarian. The main in-law, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi alongside his adorable wife, Mrs. Blessing Pondi was joined by family, friends and well wishers at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Ayakoromo for the thanksgiving Mass.

DR. DENNIS OTUARO: ARCHITECT OF ACADEMIC RENAISSANCE FOR THE NIGER DELTA-Investing in Education as the Cornerstone of Regional Transformation-

 In a landmark moment that felt like the unravelling of a long-awaited dawn, nine brilliant minds, recipients of the Presidential Amnesty Programme’s foreign postgraduate scholarships, have crossed the hallowed threshold of success, emerging with master’s degrees from some of the United Kingdom's most distinguished universities. These trailblazers, nurtured by the foresight and leadership of Otuaro, made history by becoming the first graduates of the offshore postgraduate scholarship initiative championed by his administration during the 2024–2025 academic session. Their intellectual crowns were earned at the Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Dundee, and the University of Law, in fields as diverse as cyber security, data science, law, construction and civil engineering management, project management, and ICT.  

Dr. Otuaro is the visionary gardener of young minds. Like a skilled cultivator tending to fertile soil, Otuaro has, with deliberate care, watered the seeds of ambition planted in the hearts of Niger Delta youths. The nine graduates, an emblem of grit merged with opportunity, stand today as towering testament to what happens when diligence meets visionary leadership. Their success, celebrated in the crisp winter air of London on 3 December 2025, was not merely an academic triumph--it was the blossoming of hope for an entire region.  

Otuaro is a steward of hope and human capital. At the graduation reception, Dr. Otuaro’s words radiated with conviction. His congratulations were more than ceremonial-- they were laden with pride and a deep awareness of the transformational power of education. “They have justified the Federal Government’s investment,” he emphasised, his voice carrying both warmth and the steel of expectation. His appeal to other scholars was simple yet profound: remain steadfast in your academic mission and avoid distractions, for your success is the region’s success.  

Under his watch, the PAP scholarship scheme has grown into a roaring beacon, illuminating the paths of thousands. In the Nigerian academic space alone, 7,700 students have been deployed into various higher institutions in less than two years. By scaling the numbers from 3,800 scholars in 2024–2025 to 3,900 in the current academic year-- alongside 200 new foreign placements. Otuaro has shown that to him, education is not merely a policy; it is a moral obligation.  

Otuaro is the master builder of minds.  With the precision of an architect and the wisdom of a statesman, he has also sent 162 students from the Niger Delta to sharpen their intellects in UK universities, choosing disciplines that will address the region’s developmental needs. These fields are not chosen at random; each is a calculated brick in the towering edifice of sustainable development he is constructing through human capital.  

 This expansive vision aligns seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose unprecedented support for the PAP reflects his deep affection for the Niger Delta. Otuaro, in lockstep with this agenda, has been relentless in ensuring that the region’s youth are armed not with arms, but with the far more potent weapons of knowledge, skills, and global exposure.  

 His leadership extends beyond books and classrooms. Otuaro is deepening the PAP’s engagement in informal education and other development programmes designed to weave a lasting fabric of peace and progress across the region. Like a river nourishing a thirsty land, his efforts flow into every aspect of the Niger Delta’s transformation.  

Otuaro is the triumphant Apostle of Education. The success stories emerging under his leadership are like stars lighting up the skies over a region once shrouded in clouds of despair. Each graduate is a glowing ember from the fire he has kindled-- a fire that warms communities, inspires generations, and promises a brighter collective destiny.  

Otuaro is the sentinel of the Region’s Intellectual Future. In a political climate often plagued by short-termism, Otuaro’s emphasis on long-term intellectual capacity stands out like a lighthouse on a dark shore. He is, without doubt, a man who knows what his people want-- not only opportunity but the tools to seize it -- and he delivers with consistency and compassion.  

 Otuaro is the Unyielding Champion of Niger Delta Dreams.  His mission is clear, his methods effective, and his resolve unshakable. Through his schemes, children from remote villages to bustling urban centres are stepping confidently into universities both at home and abroad, armed with the assurance that someone at the helm is utterly committed to their future.  

In the grand tapestry of the Niger Delta’s rebirth, Otuaro’s role is that of both weaver and designer. He blends opportunity with vision, policy with compassion, and ambition with structure. His work is the living proof that education is the ultimate tool for unlocking the latent potential of his people, transforming not only individuals but entire communities. In praising him, one finds no hyperbole too grand-- he is shaping an era and anchoring the destiny of a region in the inexhaustible power of knowledge.

EBIKABOWEI KEDIKUMO - writes from Ayakoromo Town, Delta State

Late. Capt. William Elaweremi Sails Home in a Golden Casket, as Niger Deltans Storm Ayakoromo in Solidarity with Engr. Kestin Pondi to Bury his Father in-law in a Grand style

Francis Tayor

Ayakoromo Federated Community went agog over the weekend as family, friends, business associates, politicians, sympathizers and well wishers from all walks of life across Nigeria trooped out in their numbers to join the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, FNSE, to bid his beloved father in-law, late Pa Capt. William Ayagbene Elaweremi a befitting final burial rites.

The historic carnival like event took place on Friday December 5th, 2025 at the deceased compound GRA, Ayakoromo Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

The dignified burial ceremony creates an avenue to unite illustrious sons and daughters of ljaw nation as well as great successful business men from the Eastern part of Nigeria including the popular Anambra born billionaire Hotelier/Housing Estates developer, Odogwu Obi Cubana alongside Zenco the great.

Other notable Niger Delta born business moguls and politicians that attended the burial include, High Chief. Tunde Smooth, the Bolouwei of Niger Delta, Dr. Baraduce Angozi, Sen. James Manager, High Chief. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme, Sir. Matthew Tonlagha, Chairman Maton group of companies, Sir. Clement Moni, Chairman Seiya group of companies, Barr. Dcn. Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor, Delta State, Chief. Dan Yingi, Barr. George Turnah,Snr. Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Funfeyin, Chief. Kenneth Brabo Obogu who happens to be the Chairman of the burial committee, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori Jnr, son of the Executive Governor of Delta State, Chief. Barrister Smooth, the paddle of Niger Delta, Sir. Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, National President ljaw Youth Council, Prof. Ogele Benjamin Okaba, National President lNC, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, CEO CEPEJ, Chief. Boro Opudu, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Chief. Bosin Ebikeme, Hon. George Ekpemupolo, High Chief. Godspower Gbenekama, Chief. Godfrey Tare Pondi among others too numerous to mention.

Meanwhile, over twenty seven (27) members of the Delta State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, members of Bayelsa State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobiri and members of the Federal House of Representative led by Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi also graced the occasion.

Moreover, the remains of the late. Capt. William Elaweremi voyaged home at about 9:25AM on Friday morning Via Miller Jetty NPA Warri in a golden casket onboard twin barges where the Numu-pere of lsaba kingdom, Prince Abraham Donokoromo, popularly known as lsaba Abraham thrilled distinguished guests numbering over twenty thousand with captivating ljaw owigiri high life music in a slow and steady mood down to Ayakoromo.

The corpse arrived Ayakoromo at about 5:50PM for a social night wake keeping according to the ljaw culture and tradition in honour and respect to a great man whose exemplary lifestyle and good legacy continues to inspire the loved one he left behind.

At the night fanfare, both ljaw and Nigeria R/B super stars as well as comedians performed to thrilled the mammoth crowed with good melodies and comedy.

Among the artists include, super star Face of the former plantation Boyz, Lizgberg lzontubo, Alfred lzon-Ebi alias Jking, Kingsley Takemebo among other side attractions.

However, in the early hours of Saturday 6:AM precisely, funeral mass service was conducted by priests from St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Ayakoromo and prayers where offered for the soul of the deceased to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord.

The remains of the deceased was interred at about 7:20AM amidst tears by children, in-laws, wives and other relatives in a solemn assembly at the graveside, marking the end of an era of a great man.

Finally, thanksgiving service was held on Sunday December 7, for the successful burial rites of the octagenarian. The main in-law, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi alongside his adorable wife, Mrs. Blessing Pondi was joined by family, friends and well wishers at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Ayakoromo for the thanksgiving Mass.

Mulade Takes Peace Building Awareness Campaign to ltsekiri Nation, Calls for Ethnic Tolerance in Warri Federal Constituency

Francis Tayor

In continuation of his efforts in supporting the government to foster sustainable peace among the various ethnic groups in the State, a renowned Niger Delta human and environmental rights advocate, High Chief Comrade. Sheriff Mulade (Ph.D), has called on the three major ethnic groups of ltsekiri, Urhobo and ljaw in Warri Federal Constituency to embrace one another and imbibed in the spirit of ethnic tolerance towards sustaining the existing peace in the oil rich city so as to attract foreign investors as well as accelerated development to the rural communities.

Comrade Mulade gave the charge on Thursday December 4, at Ugbori Town Hall of Warri South Local Government Area of the State, during A-Day peace building awareness creation campaign for peaceful coexistence in Warri Federal Constituency.

The peace building awareness campaign sponsored by the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) in collaboration with Warri Peace Community Support lnitiative, Delta State Civil Society Forum and ltsekiri youths and women of Warri Kingdom.

Mulade, who is the lbesorimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom stated that development can only spread to riverine communities when there is peace.

He reiterated that there is the urgent need for the various Warri kingdoms to come together as one in order to discuss the way forward towards peaceful coexistence, citing that all the four seaports in Delta State, especially warri, Koko, sapele and Burutu is dead due to the incessant crisis in warri.

He made the youths to understand that the political class will cause crisis among the people during elections, and thereafter settle themselves in Abuja while leaving the innocent youths in the community to kill themselves.

Mulade further stressed that peace can only exist in the presence of justice, while calling on the Federal and State governments to ensure justice in Warri and its environs so as to attract both local and foreign investors to come and invest in Warri.

In a related development, Dr. Sylvester Okoh emphasized that to promote sustainable peace and peaceful coexistence in Warri, there must be mutual respect for one another, continue dialogue, love one another, forgive, tolerate and living together as one people.

On his part, a leader from the ltsekiri nation, Hon. Omadeli Bobby aka Ratata advocated for the need of peaceful coexistence among the ljaws, ltsekiris and Urhobos in the Warri Federal Constituency. He lamented the high rate of unemployment in the state, stressing that without peace, no oil company or investors would be interested to come. He therefore, urged the youths to tow the part of peace.

In her contribution, pastor Bridget Apiah, a renowned 'Girl Child Rights' advocate admonished the youths to believe in themselves and refused to be used by selfish politicians who took advantage of their ignorance and lack of self identity.

Highpoint of the meeting was drama presentation by youths from the community, depicting the importance of fair and equitable distribution of the common wealth of the people among the various host communities as a panacea for peace and sustainable development in the state.

However, the event was attended by representative of Warri Peace Community Support lnitiative, Hon. Emmanuel Ado, Prof. Andrew, Dr. Sylvester Okoh, Hon. Omadeli Bobby, Pst. Bridget Apiah, civil society organizations and youth leaders from the various communities across ltsekiri nation in Warri South LGA.

Just-ln: 9 PAP Foreign Scholarship Students Bag Master's Degrees From UK Universities, 771 More Expected in Nigeria

 

••Otuaro Hails Scholars' Performances

Nine students awarded foreign post-graduate scholarships by the Presidential Amnesty Programme have graduated from their master's degree rprogrammes in universities in the United Kingdom.

The successful scholars are the first graduates in the offshore post-graduate scholarship deployment to UK institutions by the PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, for the 2024-2025 academic session.

They graduated from the Anglia Ruskin University, University of Dundee and The University of Law with master's degrees in cyber security, data science and engineering, law, construction and civil engineering management, project management, and ICT.

Also, 711 undergraduate and post-graduate scholarship beneficiaries are expected to graduate from universities within Nigeria this year.

The PAP, on Wednesday, 3 December, 2025, organised a graduation reception for the scholars in London.

Otuaro has congratulated them on their successful graduation, stressing that they completed their programmes in record time which shows the seriousness they had put into their studies.

He said they have justified the Federal Government's investment in their education with their successful graduation, and urged other beneficiaries not to be distracted in their academic pursuits.

"We congratulate these scholars on their successful graduation. It shows that they took their studies seriously. That is what we demand of every scholarship beneficiary, whether at the undergraduate or post-graduate level", Otuaro said.

He reiterated his unwavering commitment to expanding the scholarship scheme to create more opportunities for indigent students of Niger Delta extraction to access higher education with a view to closing the human capital development gap in the region.

Otuaro said it was for this reason he deployed 3800 beneficiaries in-country in the 2024-2025 academic year, and increased the figure to 3900 in the 2025-2026 academic session with 200 for foreign scholarships.

Otuaro has so far deployed 7700 students for the PAP scholarship scheme within Nigeria in less than two years. 

Within this period, also, he has also deployed 162 students from the region for post-graduate programmes in targeted disciplines in the UK universities.

According to him, this is in conformity with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu for the Niger Delta, who has given unprecedented support to the PAP because of his sincere love for the area.

The PAP boss said, "Our decision aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the Niger Delta. We will continue to create more higher educational opportunities for students from indigent backgrounds in our region.

"We are also deepening the implementation of the programme's mandate in informal education and other areas for the sustainable peace and socio-economic advancement of the region."

Signed:

Mr Igoniko Oduma

Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme

4 December, 2025.

Opuama Community Announces 11th Oloduwa Day Celebration, Invites Ijaw Nation and the General Public

The Opuama Community, a major oil-producing community in Egbema Kingdom, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, has officially announced the 11th edition of its annual Oloduwa (Progenitor) Day Celebration—a cultural festival dedicated to honouring the traditions, unity, and ancestral heritage of the Ijaw people.

The two-day event will hold on 12th and 13th December 2025, from 10:00 a.m. daily, at the Opuama Community Playground.

Programme Highlights

Friday, 12th December 2025

Egbema Interdenominational Prayer Session

Novelty Football Match

Musical Performance by Pere-Ama and His Band

Saturday, 13th December 2025

Bayelsa Cultural Group Display

Storytelling Cultural Presentation

Commissioning of Completed Community Projects

Live Music by Alfred Izon-Ebi and His Peace of Love Band

Leadership and Special Recognition

The 2025 edition will honour distinguished community leaders. 

According to the Planning Committee Chairman, Hon. Spencer O. Okpoye, Commissioner representing the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in DESOPADEC, this year’s celebration will reflect the unity and cultural pride of the Opuama people.

A member of the Media and Publicity Committee, ThankGod Ugedi, also called on the general public, friends, and well-wishers to participate in the grand cultural event.

Contact Information

For enquiries, please contact the Planning Committee Chairman:

📞 +234 803 389 0213 | 0813 014 7707

Signed

Alhaji Emmanuel Omoko (Bolowei 1 of Egbema Kingdom)

Pa. Julius Loboh, Ama-Okosuwei of Opuama and Federated Communities

Chief December Aweh, Chairman, Opuama Community

Hon. Spencer O. Okpoye, Commissioner, DESOPADEC & Planning Committee Chairman

Chief Shola Korokoro, President, Opuama Bloc of Communities

Save the Date!

📅 12th & 13th December 2025

📍 Opuama Community Playground

See you at Oloduwa Day 2025!

President Tinubu Nominates General Christopher Musa as New Minister of Defense

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the new Minister of Defence.

In a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu conveyed General Musa’s nomination as the successor to Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned on Monday.

General Musa, 58, on  December 25, is a distinguished soldier who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. He won the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.

Born in Sokoto in 1967, General Musa received his primary and secondary education there before attending the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He graduated in 1986 and enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy the same year, earning a Bachelor of Science degree upon graduation in 1991.

General Musa was commissioned into the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1991 and has since had a distinguished career. His appointments include General Staff Officer 1, Training/Operations at HQ 81 Division; Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion; Assistant Director, Operational Requirements, Department of Army Policy and Plans; and Infantry Representative/Member, Training Team, HQ Nigerian Army Armour Corps.

In 2019, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Training/Operations, Headquarters Infantry Centre and Corps; Commander, Sector 3, Operation Lafiya Dole; and Commander, Sector 3 Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region.

In 2021, General Musa was appointed Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai. He later became Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps before being appointed Chief of Defence Staff by President Tinubu in 2023.

In the letter to the Senate, President Tinubu expressed confidence in General Musa’s ability to lead the Ministry of Defence and further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President,

(Information and Strategy)

December 2, 2025