Reactions Trail Prof. Arthur Ekpekpos’s Continued Detention as Questions Mount Over UPU’s Role_By Moses Darah

Public concern continues to grow over the prolonged detention of Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo and other leaders from Okuama, with voices across Urhobo land and beyond asking pointed questions about leadership, justice, and institutional responsibility, particularly the role of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU).

Many commentators insist that Prof. Ekpekpo’s only “offence” was serving as a leader of the Ewu clan. To them, his continued detention without trial symbolises a deeper problem: selective justice and the weakening authority of the courts. Critics argue that when court orders are ignored, the rule of law itself is diminished, creating an atmosphere where citizens lose faith in democratic institutions.

A recurring question echoes across public forums: What is UPU doing? From community elders to youth advocates, there is widespread disappointment that the apex socio-cultural body of the Urhobo people has not taken a more visible, coordinated stand. Some accuse the organisation of being distracted by internal elections and politics while an urgent humanitarian and legal crisis unfolds.

Others draw sharp contrasts in security responses across regions, alleging that military operations are swift and forceful during peaceful protests or communal tensions in parts of the South-South and South-East, yet comparatively restrained in other regions. This perceived imbalance, critics say, fuels feelings of marginalisation and injustice.

Beyond UPU, attention is also turning to elected officials. Questions have been raised about the silence or perceived inaction of the Delta State Government, the Delta Central Senatorial leadership, and representatives at both state and federal levels. Many believe these leaders should collectively engage the military authorities, pursue judicial remedies, and demand due process.

Human rights advocates within the discourse are calling for concrete steps: Immediate legal intervention by reputable human rights lawyers; a coordinated approach involving the governor, legislators, and traditional leadership; and a world press briefing to internationalise the matter and attract global attention.

Underlying these demands is a broader lament about leadership. Several voices argue that the recurring pattern of neglect and silence reflects a leadership vacuum in Urhobo land; one that leaves ordinary people exposed to injustice with little protection. As one commentator put it, “Where there is no leadership, suffering thrives.”

The continued detention of Prof. Ekpekpo and others has thus become more than a single case; it is a test of leadership, solidarity, and commitment to justice. For many, the expectation is clear: UPU must wake up, mobilise stakeholders, and act decisively. Silence, they warn, risks being interpreted as consent. The call is growing louder: #FreeOkuamaLeaders and restore faith in justice through action, not words.

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Stop Paying 13% Oil Derivation to State Governments, Channel Funds to Mega Projects in Niger Delta_Activist, Mulade Tells Tinubu

Renowned Niger Delta environmental and human rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to halt the current practice of paying the 13 per cent oil derivation funds directly to oil-producing state governments, advocating instead for the funds to be channelled into federally coordinated mega development projects across the Niger Delta.

Mulade who is the Ibe-Serimoowei of oil rich ancient Gbaramtu Kingdom in Delta State, made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday January 7th, 2026, argued that the existing system has failed to deliver meaningful development to oil-bearing communities, largely due to corruption, mismanagement, and diversion of funds by some state governments.

According to him, despite trillions of naira disbursed as derivation funds over the years, many Niger Delta communities remain plagued by poverty, environmental degradation, unemployment, and lack of basic infrastructure.

“The 13 percent derivation fund was designed to bring development and relief to oil-producing communities, but sadly, that objective has been largely defeated,” Chief Mulade said. “What we see today is massive diversion, mismanagement and misappropriation of oil derivation funds, with little or no impact on the lives of the ordinary people in the creeks and host communities.”

He urged President Tinubu to adopt a bold policy shift by redirecting the derivation funds into well-structured, transparent, and independently monitored mega projects, particularly in critical areas such as coastal protection, environmental remediation, roads, bridges, healthcare, education, and youth employment.

Chief Mulade suggested that such projects should be executed through special-purpose development frameworks with strong community participation, credible oversight mechanisms, and clear performance benchmarks to ensure value for money.

“This administration has a historic opportunity to correct decades of injustice and waste in the Niger Delta,” he said. “Rather than sharing money that disappears into private pockets, let us invest in visible, life-changing projects that will stand the test of time and create employment opportunities for the youths”

The renowned activist further noted that insecurity, oil theft, and pipeline vandalism in the region are closely linked to underdevelopment and neglect, stressing that strategic investment in infrastructure and human capital would significantly reduce restiveness and criminality.

Chief Mulade also called on the National Assembly to support constitutional and policy reforms that would allow for more effective utilisation of derivation funds in the interest of oil-bearing communities.

He expressed confidence that President Tinubu’s administration, if guided by transparency and political will, could redefine Niger Delta's development and restore public trust in the management of oil revenues.

Gov. Douye Diri Celebrates Wayles Egukawhore At 60

Bayelsa State Governor, Sen. Douye Diri, has extended warm felicitations to renowned marine and construction entrepreneur, Chairman of Dewayles Group of Companies, High Chief (Dr) Victor Wayles Egukawhore, as he marks his 60th birthday on January 6.

Diri, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dan Alabrah, praised the Enhwe-Isoko-born business mogul as a shining example of enterprise, integrity and compassion, whose business ventures and humanitarian gestures have positively touched countless lives.

The Governor noted that Egukawhore’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility and charity had earned him the deep appreciation of the government and people of Bayelsa State. He described his contributions to society as both impactful and enduring.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Bayelsa State, I heartily rejoice with my brother and friend, High Chief (Dr) Victor Wayles Egukawhore, on the celebration of his 60th birth anniversary,” the Governor said.

He commended the celebrant for creating sustainable employment opportunities and empowering many to achieve economic independence through his investments across key sectors of the economy.

The Governor maintained that Egukawhore’s generosity, humility and goodwill had endeared him to a wide circle of admirers and supporters across the country, particularly Bayelsa State and Niger Delta region in general.

Diri said; “As you continue to devote your resources and energy to uplifting our people, it is my prayer that Almighty God grants you renewed strength, greater accomplishments and many more years of fulfilled service to humanity”, the statement added.

Trump Has Caged Tinubu, Wants To Remove Him From Office – Primate Ayodele

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Tinubu that US President Donald Trump is plotting to remove him from office.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele made it known that the US President has ‘caged’ Tinubu and his plan is to ultimately see that he is removed from office.

He stated that the support the US is giving Nigeria to fight insecurity is only to find ways to penetrate the government.

“Trump is adamant to remove President Tinubu. America will be part of those who will be against Tinubu. You may not see it as I am being shown, and that’s why I am saying Trump is after removing Tinubu, that’s it and nothing more,” the cleric said.

The prophet alleged that the ulterior motive of the US President is not about ending insecurity in Nigeria.

“Nigeria will still continue to fight insecurity, but either they fight it or not, Trump is focused on removing Tinubu from office, but he doesn’t know it yet.

“He isn’t after ending insecurity in the country, he knows what he wants and won’t stop at nothing towards achieving it.”

He urged Tinubu to take a bold political step to overcome the plans of the US President, warning that otherwise, Trump will end up succeeding with his plans.

“Tinubu must take a very bold step to overcome the plans of Trump, because he has caged him already.

“Tinubu must not relent his efforts and bring up strategies for him to succeed otherwise, he would be at the losing end while his defeat would be celebrated.”

Just-ln: Alabo Nengi James to Declares lnterest for INC President January 7, in Yenagoa, lnvites the General Public

Ahead of the forthcoming 2026 ljaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide general elections, a front line aspirant for the race, Alabo Nengi J. James, OON, has set to officially declare interest to contest for the office of the President.

In a statement released on Monday by himself in Yenagoa, the incumbent Vice President ll of INC stated that the intent declaration Press Conference would take place on Wednesday January 7, 2026 at the lNC Secretariat, ljaw House, Yenagoa by 3:PM.

The Nembe and Odi born Royal High Chief. Nengi James uses this medium to invite the Press, ljaw critical stakeholders, loved ones and the general public to grace the epoch making intent declaration Press Conference slated for tomorrow, the statement added.

Tompolo Signs Deal With American Firm to Supply Tantita With Advanced Drones to Fight Oil Theft in Nigeria

American defence company, Textron Systems, has signed a deal to provide three advanced drones to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), a private security company owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo.

The drones—Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS)—can take off and land vertically without needing a runway.

The firm, in a statement shared on its website and dated December 29, 2025, said the systems, which will be provided in a fully ITAR-free configuration to facilitate international export, are designed to operate without the need for runways, using hybrid quadrotor technology to enable vertical takeoff and landing.

Textron said it has also included options for additional aircraft and training support to allow Tantita to expand operational capabilities.

“The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a mature, highly reliable, and industry-proven autonomous solution that will provide Tantita Security Services with transformational capability to execute their security operations,” said David Phillips, Senior Vice President of Air, Land and Sea Systems at Textron.

“The Aerosonde system’s demonstrated performance and benchmark-setting reliability will enable the Tantita team to expand its capabilities to protect the oil and gas infrastructure essential to Nigerian security and prosperity.”

The contract builds on a history of Aerosonde deployments in challenging environments worldwide, including operations from over 10 U.S. Navy ships. The system, capable of carrying multiple payloads and operating in both VTOL and fixed-wing modes, has amassed more than 700,000 flight hours internationally.

Textron Systems said that the sale represents a significant enhancement for security operations in Nigeria, particularly in high-risk sectors where oil and gas assets remain vulnerable to disruption.

The company also noted the option for further acquisitions and training to strengthen Tantita’s operational readiness.

Tantita Security Services, a recognised provider of comprehensive security solutions in Nigeria, is expected to deploy the Aerosonde systems for surveillance, rapid response, and infrastructure protection missions, with the goal of improving situational awareness and operational effectiveness in the Niger Delta and other sensitive regions.

This latest contract underscores the growing role of uncrewed systems in national and corporate security operations, reflecting a shift toward technologically advanced solutions for safeguarding critical assets.

Textron Systems, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., is known globally for its uncrewed air, surface, and land systems, as well as products in the aerospace, defence, and industrial sectors. The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS represents the company’s latest development in versatile, autonomous security platforms designed to operate reliably in diverse and demanding environments.

Delivery dates for the Aerosonde systems have not been disclosed, but Tantita officials are expected to announce operational deployment plans in the coming months.

Trump briefs Americans on successful tactical operation over capture of Venezuela president, Nicolas Maduro and Wife

.....says 'a couple of guys' and a helicopter were hit as US forces stormed a 'fortress' to capture Maduro

US troops and a helicopter came under fire during the operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicols Maduro, President Donald Trump said on Saturday, revealing new details about the overnight raid.

Trump said a US helicopter took fire during the raid in Venezuela.

Trump said American forces stormed what he described as a "very highly guarded" building, "like a fortress," and closed in on Maduro before he could reach a "safety space" surrounded by steel.

"I think we had nobody killed, I have to say, because a couple of guys were hit. But they came back, and they're supposed to be in pretty good shape," Trump said.

"We lost no aircraft; everything came back — we got it all back. One of them was hit pretty hard — a helicopter — but we got it back," the president added.

The Pentagon referred questions about Trump's comments to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a request for additional information.

Trump earlier said the US had carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela, capturing Maduro and his wife and flying them out of the country. The operation, he said, was done in coordination with American law enforcement.

Video footage shared on social media showed helicopters flying low to the ground in Venezuela. Caracas said American forces targeted military and civilian areas and strongly condemned the strikes.

Trump said that the US "turned off almost all of the lights in Caracas." He described the raid as being "very organized," with American forces working under near total darkness.

He declined to say which American forces participated in the raid. He said only that they're "the most highly trained soldiers in the world," adding that "there's nobody that has their talent."

He said the operation was planned with "pinpoint" accuracy, and that the US "built a house which was identical to the one they went into" — a tactic similar to what the US did ahead of the 2011 raid on Osama bin Laden's compound in Pakistan.

The US has built up a massive military presence in the Caribbean Sea in recent months, gathering advanced warships, fighter jets, and an aircraft carrier, with the White House repeatedly threatening military action against Venezuela. He accused the country's leadership of facilitating drug-trafficking — claims Maduro rejected.

Opinion: When Desire Becomes a Debt: Notes from the Ruins of Fame_ By William Z. Bozimo

Fame is a mirror that lies kindly at first. It gives you the impression that you are loved, wanted, and chosen, but it never tells you that your bill is being loaded. A man rises with plenty of money swelling his pockets, power screaming his name, and the crowd cheering for him. Doors begin to open, boundaries disappear, lustful desires become a hobby, then a habit, and finally an obsession. And somewhere between the first temptation and the tenth excuse, wisdom quietly leaves the room for good.

The humiliation usually comes later. When children are born before any commitment, baby mamas replace managers, and the future is now spent funding yesterday’s lust. By then, the dream is already cracked and we only hear it shatter. The cruel truth of some public figure's life is this: people love you while you are still useful to them. But when the wealth finishes through bad deals, illness, habit, and old age, support evaporates and most friends disappear, while family grows distant. 

The applause then becomes a serious mockery, and your past is replayed on repeat; not only as context, but also as condemnation. Life does not usually punish instantly. It waits, allows more indulgence, and records everything. Then, when one's strength fades, it presents the bill. Being desired is not the same as being loved, and being surrounded is not the same as being supported. The truth we always avoid is this: fame does not create flaws, it only amplifies them like a microphone.

Society often likes simple villains, so it chooses women. Then you hear things like she only wanted his money, she trapped him and used fiendish means. In fact, some women chase power with everything they have: body, mind, and spirit. So let us not try to pretend and act innocent where ambition has teeth. But power is not powerless. A man with wealth and influence is not a leaf in the wind. He chooses, he opens doors and returns calls. He also signs cheques and destinies. So when the music is loud and the nights are long, excess will look like success. 

But time is such a ruthless editor. It cuts scenes without apology. When the money slows, age bends the back, and relevance begins to stutter, the society rewrites the story. The man becomes “finished” and the woman turns “promiscuous.” The children also become footnotes. Savings are gone and applause has moved on to a newer name. The same crowd that once celebrated recklessness now begin to condemn it as character failure. This is how life teaches: not with warnings, but with withdrawals.

The moral lesson is not purity, but discipline. It is not abstinence, but accountability. It is not moral noise, but foresight. Every affair or fling one indulges in without any structure becomes a future disaster looking for your address. Fame is rented and not owned, so the rent is due daily. The way forward is modesty. For those who are emerging, understand that lust is very loud but loyalty is what survives bankruptcy. Shame is also not a life sentence and healing is still possible. Tell yourself the truth before you find a way out, because wisdom gained late can still save someone.

And as for the society, please, stop excusing power and demonising vulnerability. Also, stop clapping for indulgence and stoning the results. Judge less and learn more. Because fame does not ruin people; unmanaged desire does. And when the sheep is down, the crowd always moves on. Only the character stays behind to explain the ruins.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

America, the No 1 World Super Power, the Venezuela Saga, and Nigeria on the Watch List

America went into Venezuela day before yesterday night and captured the president and wife. Now, let me break this down properly because a lot of people are missing the deeper signal behind these events.

Trump is sendless. That part is not even in doubt. He is not pretending to be diplomatic, polite, or careful with words. 

Diplomacy, as the world has known it for decades, is built on long meetings, press statements, quiet backdoor negotiations, and pretending nothing serious is happening while things rot underneath. Trump does not operate like that. He believes power should be felt quickly and clearly.

So when you hear that the United States went into Venezuela and arrested the sitting head of state and his wife on drug related charges, that is not a small story. That is a loud message. It is America saying, “We no longer respect your title if you are running a criminal enterprise under the cover of government.” 

In real life, this is not about drugs alone. Drugs are just the charge that is easiest to prove internationally. The real issue is control, legitimacy, and who the world recognizes as lawful authority.

Now, pause and look at the timing.

While that is happening, the Nobel Peace Prize for 2025 is awarded to María Corina Machado. 

This is not coincidence. 

The Nobel committee does not move blindly. Awards like that are statements. They are global signals. They tell the world who is being legitimized and who is being quietly stripped of legitimacy.

Machado has been consistent for years. Not loud. Not violent. Not chasing power through force. She has been pushing one idea relentlessly. That Venezuela must return to real democracy, not the fake version where elections exist on paper but outcomes are controlled. She has paid a price for that stance. Threats, bans, intimidation, isolation. But she did not bend.

So when you put these two events side by side, a picture forms.

One side is force. Arrests. Direct action. No diplomacy talk. No pretending. That is Trump’s style. 

The other side is moral legitimacy. International recognition. Symbolic power. That is the Nobel Prize.

One removes authority. The other transfers legitimacy.

This is how modern power works. Not always with bombs. Not always with speeches. Sometimes with courts, arrests, sanctions, and recognition.

Now let me bring it home.

Many Nigerians think global politics is noise that does not concern them. That is a mistake. What happens in Venezuela today can happen anywhere tomorrow. Countries collapse gradually. First, institutions weaken. Then leaders overstay. Then corruption becomes normal. Then citizens normalize suffering. Before you know it, outsiders start deciding your fate.

Another lesson here is about leadership style.

Trump’s approach shows something uncomfortable but real. The world is moving away from endless talk. Results matter more than optics now. You can hate his style. Many people do. But you cannot ignore its effectiveness. When power is confronted decisively, it creates shock. Shock forces change.

Machado’s story shows the opposite side of the same coin. You do not always need to hold power to influence outcomes. Consistency, moral clarity, and patience can slowly position you as the alternative when the old order collapses.

So what are we really seeing?

We are seeing the end of tolerance for fake systems. Fake democracy. Fake leadership. Fake stability. The global system is quietly reordering itself. Those who align with real values are being elevated. Those who hide behind titles while running criminal states are being exposed.

History is not loud when it is happening. It only becomes obvious later.

If you are watching closely, Venezuela right now is a case study in how power shifts, how legitimacy is reassigned, and how the world decides who stays and who goes.

Ignore it at your own risk.

#tochukwunkwocha

Patoraking Gives Thanks to God for Using Timaya to Lift him from Street to Palace, Appreciates Egberipapa 1 of Bayelsa

 

According to him, said:

“i first  met Timaya in 2009. Then in 2011, I came to his house, and as he saw me, he asked where I have been all this while and I told him I have been hustling,” 

“He said if I don’t record a sweet song, I would not leave his house. And that time, I was staying in a ghetto. First day, I recorded and I tried to impress him because he was staying on an estate at the time and I know I won’t pay for rent, studio, and food.

“That was how God used him to bless me.  We were staying at Maruwa garden on the mainland, so I moved with him to Lekki. On getting to Lekki, we started hustling, I then recorded ‘Alubarika’. When we recorded the song, everything changed.

“If Timaya wasn’t there, if he didn’t pay for that video or let me stay in his house, I wouldn’t be here today.” -- Patoranking

2026: PANDEF Felicitate with Nigeria, Niger Deltans at New Year, Calls for Sustainable Peace and Development

PRESS STATEMENT 

LET US PREPARE FOR A NEW DAWN OF PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT

As we step into the year 2026, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) joins the entire people of the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria in giving thanks to God Almighty for the grace of a New Year. PANDEF also extends warm felicitations to our political leaders, traditional rulers, faith leaders, development agencies, especially the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and South-South Development Commission (SSDC); and indeed all our people, for their steadfast faith in God and remarkable resilience throughout 2025, which has brought our region this far.

PANDEF recognizes that the New Year marks another significant epoch for the Niger Delta, one that presents renewed opportunities to consolidate and sustain our leading role as a zone of transformative progress within the country. This progress must continue to reflect in the improved welfare of our people, particularly in healthcare and education, the empowerment of women and youth, accelerated physical and infrastructural development, and the long-overdue remediation of our environment after decades of oil pollution.

Across the region, from Akwa Ibom to Bayelsa, and through Cross River, Delta, and Edo States, we have witnessed relative peace and improved security. Even the unfortunate days of the state of emergency in Rivers State have, thankfully, become a thing of the past, with the state now recording unprecedented progress. It is therefore imperative that we all redouble our efforts to sustain this peace and collectively address, in a timely manner, any threats or breaches that may arise. Undoubtedly, greater social and economic advancement will follow through closer collaboration in building and sustaining peace and security.

As we move forward, let our faith in God Almighty, whose benevolence has placed our region as a leading contributor to the national economy for decades, remain resolute and strengthened. Let us continue to draw guidance from the Scriptures, as stated in Psalms 60:12: *“With God we shall gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies.”*

Happy New Year to the dear people of the Niger Delta and to Nigeria at large.

Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON

National Chairman

Niger Delta ex-agitators laud US govt military operations in parts of Northern region

Ex- agitators of Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF) have commended the US soldiers for clamping down on terrorists in parts of Northern region in Nigeria.

The group by its defunct spokesman Captain Mark Anthony in a statement signed and circulated to various media houses, applauded the US military operations in parts of Northern Nigeria.

According to him, ''We the disbanded Niger Delta fighters of NDLF led by late General John Togo hereby commend and support the ongoing military operations of the US soldiers in Nigerian Northern region against terrorists.

''The Northern terrorists group had killed countless Nigerians, including Muslims, though Christians are the major target. 

''We also urge the US government to publicly declare supporters of northern terrorists, especially Moslem Cleric Sheik Gumi,  Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (He was used to divert global attention on Christians killing in Nigeria)  Asari Dokubo, Reno Omokri (Also used to divert global attention of  Christians killings)   and others either in government or in the military  wanted,  arrest and  prosecute them for supporting terrorism'' He said.

He recalled that '' When we were fighting in Niger Delta region, we were fighting for inclusion in the natural resources in Niger Delta region. Our fight is and was purely an economic struggle for survival. We did not kidnap and kill innocent Nigerians. That is why we dissociated ourselves from the late operations of Movement for the emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) who went about detonating bombs in human gatherings, including the Warri Edjeba bombing and Abuja Eagle square twin bombings.''

Captain Mark however, applauded the Nigerian Government for granting pipeline contract to High Chief Government Ekpemuplo''

''Once again, we seize this  opportunity to thank the Nigerian Government for granting High Chief Government Ekpemuplo the pipeline contract through Tantita Security Limited and others ex-fughters of Niger Delta oil war to protect the oil facilities.'

But the former warlord reminded federal government that the present peace in Niger Delta region is fragile, saying that the people in Niger Delta are still in abject poverty and urged federal government to compliment Tompolo's peace effort in the region by embarking on social amenities.

''But the government should help High Chief Government Ekpemuplo's effort by not  forgetting it's responsibilities of providing social amenities in the oil rich but poor Niger Delta region.  

''Till date, over 95% Ijaw communities have no clean drinking pipe borne water, no clinic or common cottage hospital, no electricity , no motorable roads and standard school buildings. 

''Federal Government should look into funds released  to the interventionist agencies, especially Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC) NDDC over the years has not met purposes of its creation. It has been an agency which enriches political jobbers by empowering themselves, leaving the mission and goals of the agency, thereby the communities leave in squalor and abject poverty with no one to complain to. 

''The oil war in Niger Delta has not ended. We may look tired and weak today. But the younger ones who have not seen any bombs and carry AK- 47 rifles are dynamites and seeing the Niger Delta region as conquered or defeated region, may wake up one day and ask us( elders)  series of questions about the stark under development of the Ijaw communities and other Niger Delta oil producing communities in Niger Delta region which we may not find the expected answers they want to get from us.  

''The continued underdevelopment of Niger Delta region is a great security concern to global security. We call on US President Donald Trump to show concern in the oil rich, but abandoned oil producing communities by successive Nigerian government as this may spark another arm movement by aggrieved youths from the region in the future'' The statement added.

Dr. Agbolayah Rejoices with Deltans at New Year, Preaches Peace, Love and Unity

Charlse Onduku 

As part of celebrating the new year festivity, the Special Adviser (SA) to the executive governor of Delta State on Community Development, Hon. Amb. Dr. Toyin Orighomisan Agbolayah (JP), has congratulated Deltans on crossing over to the promising year 2026 in good health, while appreciating their support to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori led administration in the past two years.

Dr. Agbolayah made the statement on Friday January 2, while playing host to community leaders, supporters, friends and well wishers at his private guest house (Akikan Lodge) Ugbuwangue, Warri.

Addressing the audience, Dr. Agbolayah deeply appreciated Deltans, especially critical stakeholders, community leaders and the good people of Bowen Ward 6 for their unalloyed support to governor Sheriff Oborevwori led administration in maintaining peace and orderliness in their community.

The Special Adviser emphasized that His Excellency, governor Sheriff Oborevwori led administration is deeply committed in providing quality and more enhanced service delivery to all Deltans irrespective of tribe, stressing that God would perfect everything concerning Delta and Nigeria in the new year.

He urged the people to always maintain peace in their various communities, love one another and create enabling environment so as to enable government and multinational oil company's bring development across the state.

Dr. Agbolayah concluded the message with mini get together as he wine and dine with many that paid him new year visit.

New Year 2026: Ijaw Leader Mulade Charges President Tinubu, Governors on Accountability, Economic Relief

A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate, and renowned human and environmental rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has welcomed Nigerians to the New Year 2026, urging governments at all levels to embrace prudence, accountability, and purposeful governance focused on delivering electoral promises rather than being distracted by the next election cycle.

Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in a New Year message he issued at Okerenkoko Community, Gbaramatu Kingdom Delta State, on New Year's day.

In his message the renowned peace ambassador reflected on the prevailing socio-economic realities confronting the nation and the responsibilities of leadership at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

According to him, Nigerians are currently grappling with severe economic hardship, a situation he noted demands urgent, people-oriented responses from the Federal Government.

The National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), specifically charged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to intensify efforts aimed at easing the burden on citizens through inclusive and sustainable economic policies that prioritize the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“It is imperative to state that Nigerians are going through hard times in the economy,” Mulade said, and added that “The Federal Government must therefore ensure that policies are people-focused, addressing the daily realities of citizens and restoring hope, stability, and confidence in governance.”

Turning attention to Delta State, the peace and development advocate commended Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as an ongoing infrastructural development revolution across major city centres of the state. 

He noted that visible improvements in roads and urban infrastructure reflect the administration’s commitment to development.

However, Mulade urged the state governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to ensure that the benefits of development are evenly distributed across the Delta State in 2026, particularly by extending similar infrastructural projects to the riverine communities, predominantly occupied by the Ijaws and Itsekiris.

“These riverine communities are the sources and live wire of the state’s economy, through Blue marine economy, Oil and Gas,” he stated. “Extending infrastructure to these areas will give the people a greater sense of belonging, strengthen citizen participation, and promote collaboration and partnership in driving sustainable peace and continuous development in Delta State.”

He emphasized that inclusive development remains a critical factor in maintaining peace in the Niger Delta, stressing that communities that feel recognized and supported are more likely to cooperate with government policies and development initiatives.

Mulade also called on citizens, especially Deltans, to play their part in fostering peace and stability, noting that government efforts alone are insufficient without public cooperation.

“As citizens, we must give government, particularly Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori maximum support to ensure a peaceful and secured Delta,” he said. “Peace is essential to attracting and wooing investors who can create employment opportunities and drive development in our dear state," he added. Let me specifically appealed to the various ethnic groups in Delta State to support and promote collaborative efforts for sustainable peace in the state that will foster peaceful coexistence among themselves for socio-economic  stability and development in 2026..

The Ijaw leader congratulated Nigerians, particularly the people of Delta State, on the dawn of the New Year 2026, expressing optimism that the year would usher in better living conditions and greater opportunities for the nation.

He expressed hope that the 2026 budget with N1.7 trillion, Delta State would mark a turning point toward responsive governance, economic relief, and sustainable development anchored on peace, accountability, transparency and collective responsibility.

Burna Boy, Soso Soberekon Unveil Scholarship Scheme for 500 Niger Delta Youths

Following the huge success of the Benikrukru Christmas Carnival in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, which featured global music star Burna Boy and was packaged by leading entertainment promoter Soso Soberekon for Dr. (Mrs.) Esther Mathew Tonlagha, founder of the EMT Foundation, a major follow-up initiative has been announced with a strong focus on education and youth empowerment.

The new initiative, tagged From Carnival to Classroom, will provide scholarships to 500 Niger Delta youths currently enrolled in tertiary institutions and facing serious financial challenges with the payment of school fees. The scholarship scheme is designed to ease the burden on indigent students and ensure that financial hardship does not cut short their academic pursuits.

The initiative comes in response to the massive support and participation recorded during the Benikrukru Christmas Carnival, which attracted youths from across the Niger Delta region and drew national and international attention. Organizers say the overwhelming turnout and positive reception inspired the decision to channel the success of the carnival into a lasting social impact project.

By linking entertainment with education, the scholarship scheme reflects a deliberate effort to give back to the community, particularly to young people who represent the future of the region. It also underscores a broader commitment to social responsibility, youth development, and human capital growth in the Niger Delta.

The scholarship initiative has been widely described as timely and thoughtful, especially at a period when many students are struggling with rising educational costs. It stands as a notable example of how cultural and entertainment events can be leveraged to drive meaningful and sustainable community development.

Further details on the application process and implementation of the scholarship scheme are expected to be released in due course.