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.

Ayakoromo Community 40Th Annual Convention Comes to an End with Sworn-ln of New Executives, Adoption of Convention Resolutions

Francis Tayor

The historic Ayakoromo Community 40Th Annual Convention has come to an end with Swearing-ln of the newly elected organs of the community to pilot the affairs in the next two years.

The Sworn-ln ceremony was held at the community Town Hall on Wednesday December 31, 2025 during the grand finale of the 40th annual convention amidst the Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Council, High Chief. Dr. Julius Takeme among other government officials.

It will interest the public to note that Ayakoromo Annual Convention is the highest decision making organ in the community whereby resolutions of the convention are adopted and used for the smooth running of the community day to day administration.

The newly Sworn-ln community leadership include; 

Mr. Ebikeniye Princewill Brakala_Chairman,

Mr. Bar Bibowei_ Vice Chairman,

Comrade Paul Kemezi_ Youth Leader,

Comrade Preye Lokiri_ Community Liaison Officer CLO,

Mrs. Brenda Angodideke_Woman Leader,

Mr. William Demebide,

Community Chief Adviser, 

Mr. Amadeinmo Arogbo_ Representative of eldest man among others.

Reacting to the development, the executive chairman Burutu Local Government Council, Dr. Julius Takeme congratulated Ayakoromo Community for peaceful elections and successful annual convention.

He charged the community new leadership to foster peace and unity while serving the interest of the people, and promised to work with the new leadership in order to attract development to Ayakoromo.

Takeme further commended the Ayakoromo Annual Convention Planning Committee ably chaired by Chief. Manager Seigha among other notable leaders for the colourful event, adding that he was pleased with the manner of coordination and orderliness through out the 3-day.

However, immediately after the swearing-in ceremony, the community wine and dine together in the eve of new year as the Ayakoromo born ljaw owigiri high life music maestro, Gen. Best May alias JFred musically entertained the participants with good melodies till dawn.

The Mercy That Interrupts Bloodlines: A Man, a Memory, and the Mercy That Must Come_By William Z. Bozimo

Some homes raise children right, while others exhaust them quietly. Some roofs do not leak rain; they leak silence. Some walls do not echo just laughter; they rehearse secrets too heavy for a child’s spine. This is the reality that we rarely title correctly, even when some of us can relate to it on reflection. We sometimes call it culture, spiritualize it as a ritual for ungodly gains, or outrightly excuse it as tradition. But in all honesty, it is a wildlife disguised as a family where inheritance soon becomes silence.

The first betrayal is not the abuse, it is the normalisation of such an act. In dysfunctional abusive homes; and in some cases polygamous settings, evil rarely arrives wearing horns. It mostly comes with routine. A youngster soon learns early that: pain has a schedule, the authority is indisputable, silence is survival, and boundary is negotiable. The worst atrocities are not always violent, some can be systematic in identity. Such an act not only stays in their childhood, but it matures with them into adulthood.

It could just begin with a look held too long, a touch explained away, and a night that becomes a memory no morning can cleanse. The child is then taught the most complicated lesson of all: “You must never say what just happened to anyone.” In some broken polygamous homes for example, love is not multiplied, it is simply rationed. Affection becomes a currency, while the children become the collateral. The women compete, while the men dominate; and the innocent disappear between two hierarchies.

Where power is unchecked, bodies become territories. If accountability is absent, abuse becomes tradition. So the children grow up believing that authority cannot be questioned, and that pain is deserved. They also feel that God is watching but unmoved. Child abuse not only robs their innocence, but it also mutes their mouth; making it difficult to speak. Then they grow up and are not able to explain why so much anger lives under their skin, and why intimacy with just anyone feels unsafe.

Such individuals may become successful in life and respected. However, they remain internally homeless. The tragedy is that they survived the house, but the house did not let them go. And without divine intervention and healing by God’s mercy, one or all three things often happen: they become emotionless, alive, but absent. They also become angry and fight ghosts that no one else can see. Lastly, they become the echo; repeating what wounded them, while they constantly hate themselves for replicating that same pattern.

This is how bloodlines bleed without any visible wounds. This is also the sad reality of how generations inherit silence instead of surnames. The most destructive lie whispered to abused youngsters is this: “If you survived it, it wasn’t that bad.” But survival is not proof of health, and scars that do not bleed still ache. Many individuals do not know they are wounded; they only know they are tired. And yet, mercy interrupts history and some people wake up to the truth, no matter how late it took them to realise the facts.

The worst thing that can happen to a person from a complex background is not that they were violated, but that they were never told the truth about it. But the most powerful thing that can happen to the victims is realizing that they were never the problem. Once this is known, then the wilderness loses its power, the house collapses, and history eventually meets mercy. A healed individual interrupts cycles, and names what others hide. Such a person is not weak. They are proof that mercy can rewrite bloodlines, trauma is not destiny, and EL-ROI still delivers individuals from houses that were never homes.

Abusers are often once abused, even though it doesn't excuse their behaviour. While silence becomes a plot, pain seeks expression. Some even turn to addiction, reckless behaviour, or suicide. This is not a weakness, it is untreated anguish exceeding human capacity. It is not because they are evil, but because untreated trauma re-enacts itself. This is how some generations are destroyed except by divine help, mercy, truth, therapy, and a safe community.

One of the most tragic outcomes of an abused person is their inability to form a healthy relationship. Love may feel suspicious, suffocating, and dangerous to them. They may also crave closeness yet sabotage it, fear commitment, and confuse control with care. Marriage, parenthood, and friendship become battlefields instead of shelters.

✍🏽 William Z. Bozimo

Veteran Journalist | Columnist | National Memory Keeper

Ayakoromo 40Th Annual Convention Day-2: Community Administrative lssues, Constitution Review and lnterpretation takes Center Stage

Francis Tayor 

The peace loving people of Ayakoromo community both home and abroad in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has once again converged on Tuesday 30th December, 2025 at the community Town Hall in order to deliberate on critical developmental issues affecting the community.

The Day-2 of the convention mainly focused on community administrative matters as well as interpretation of some silent areas that demands explanations in the community constitution.

It is worthy to note that Ayakoromo annual convention is a tradition of the community people coming together once in a year in order to access the progress of the community in terms of development as well as setting new agenda ahead of the next year.

This years convention was unique and spectacular as it slightly deviated from the former procedure as Convention Planning Committee was set up to manage the activities of the three days programme.

Feelers at the convention described the 40Th annual convention as one of the best so far organized in Ayakoromo ranging from the easthetic arena decoration, provision of adequate daily launch refreshment for participants as well as cultural troupe dance display entertainment among other interesting side attractions.

The Convention was well coordinated by the central working committee ably chaired by High Chief. Manager Seigha, the Esonmowene-owei of Ogbe-ljoh Warri kingdom alongside Dr. William Apiakise, Sir. Clement Moni, Hon. Godwin Edumogiren, Hon. Paul Kurugbe, Engr. Henry Yeaigagha, High Chief. Hon. Yerin Ekpedibo Yerin, Mrs. Eunice Angozi, High Chief. James Egberibo, Dr. Ekanpou Enewaridideke, Barr. Otu Akanyo, Hon. Joe Izon-owei Pouyebo, Comrade Austin Ozobo, Hon. Tony Dauyebo, Comrade Oyinbi Onduku, Mr. Ebikabowei Kedikumo, Mr. Asiayei Enaibo David, Comrade Jerome Demebide, Prince Kelvin Perekeme, Hon. Timiebi Angodideke, Barr. Preye Onduku, Mr. Ayakpo Bayoko, Dr. Ahmed Saibakumo, Comrade Timi Coleman, Mr. Matthew Apiakise among others too numerous to mention.

However, the grand finale of the convention holds tomorrow December 31, 2025. The final Day-3 of the convention is majorly focused on adoption of the convention resolutions, swearing in of the new incoming leadership of the community, award presentation, musical entertainment among other activities.

Some dignitaries expected at the grand finale include; Dr. Baraduce Angozi, former governorship aspirant Delta State, High Chief. (Engr). Kestin Pondi, MD Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and the Owena of Ozoro Kingdom, Hon. Dr. Julius Pondi, member representing Burutu federal constituency, Chief Dr. Julius Takeme, the Executive Chairman Burutu LGA Delta State, High Chief. Benjamin Ekeremor, High Chief. Boro Opudu among others.

Jolomi Kelvin Congratulates Kestin Pondi on Owena Of Ozoro Kingdom Chieftaincy Title

Mr. Jolomi Kelvin, Pointman of the Anti-Oil Theft Awareness Campaign, has congratulated Managing Director High Chief Kestin Pondi on his chieftaincy title OWENA OF OZORO KINGDOM, conferred by His Royal Majesty, Barr. Anthony Efetobore Ogbogbo, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom.

In a congratulatory message, Jolomi described the title as well-deserved, citing Pondi's contributions to the people of Ozoro over the years. 

He praised Pondi's philanthropy, noting that he has helped countless individuals in Ozoro and Isoko, regardless of tribe or religion.

Jolomi also commended the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom for recognizing Pondi's efforts, stating that the title is a testament to his goodwill. 

He expressed excitement on behalf of the people of Ozoro, saying they have done well to honor Pondi.

The congratulatory message followed a recent award ceremony where Jolomi was honored with an award of recognition for his exemplary and relentless effort in the sensitization campaign against crude oil theft for Tantita Security Services Nig Limited by Maracana Fc in Uvwie Local Government. 

Other awardees included the Executive Chairman Uvwie Local government Hon Anthony Ofoni JP, Uvwie Area commander DCP Aliyu Shaba, D.P.O Ugborikoko Police Station Uvwie, CSP Temi Agbede Zuokumor.

Jolomi noted that Pondi has never discriminated against any tribe and finds joy in helping people, adding that his chieftaincy title is a recognition of his selfless service to the people of Ozoro and beyond.

Ayakoromo 40Th Annual Convention: Manager Seigha sues for unity towards community development, appreciates sponsors

Francis Tayor

The Chairman Planning Committee of the 40th Ayakoromo Annual Convention 2025, High Chief. Manager Seigha, has called for unity among Ayakoromo illustrious sons and daughters towards attracting meaningful development to the growth of the community.

Chief. Seigha, who is the Esonmowene-owei of Ogbe-ljoh Warri kingdom make the remark on Monday December 29, during presentation of his welcome address at the 2025 Ayakoromo historic 3-day annual convention.

Seigha emphasized that with unity, love and mutual respect for one another, Ayakoromo would be an enviable place for investment, thereby increasing the economy of the community.

He thanked Ayakoromo community for adopting the new innovation introduced to organize the annual convention, noting that change is constant towards progress and development.

He further appreciated Ayakoromo sons and daughters as well as friends and well wishers who supported this years convention with finance and other kind donation, praying God to replenish their pocket for their kind gesture, the statement added.

It will interest the public to note that Ayakoromo Annual Convention is an avenue to gather all sons an daughters of the community, both home and abroad in order to deliberate on critical issues towards the growth and development of the community.

Meanwhile, the day 1 of the Ayakoromo 40th annual convention featured men and women Ogele dance competition, star beer drinking competition, Ogunsei among other activities to portray the rich culture of the Ayakoromo mein ljaws of Burutu LGA of Delta State.

Akubiri quarters took first for the ogele dance competition and went home with one hundred thousand naira (N100, 000). Followed by Assesabiri quarters with N70, 000, Tamoukunu quarters emerged third with N50 while Emekpo took fourth with 30k prize respectively.

However, tomorrow 30th day-2 of the convention would focus on discussion, debate and review of the various addresses and motions presented by the various organs of the community.