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By Wilson Macaulay WARRI — A prominent Niger Delta environmental rights activist and advocate for good governance, Chief (Dr.) Sheriff Mulade, has raised serious concerns over what he described as the systematic neglect of education development in Ijaw communities of Delta State, despite the region’s immense contribution to the nation’s oil wealth. Mulade, who is the Chairman of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), lamented that decades of crude oil exploration in Ijaw territories have yielded little or no commensurate investment in human capital development, particularly in the education sector. He described the situation as a painful paradox where communities that generate billions of dollars in oil revenue remain trapped in educational underdevelopment. According to him, many riverine Ijaw communities across Delta State still lack basic educational infrastructure such as standard classrooms, qualified teachers, learning materials, libraries and functional laborato...

  By Wilson Macaulay LOKOJA   As political permutations and alignments ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections begin to take shape, a respected philanthropist and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Asiwaju Olatunji Olusoji, has delivered a timely and far-reaching admonition to the people of Okunland, urging them to avoid the costly political miscalculations that weakened their position during the 2023 Kogi State governorship election. Speaking during a media interaction in Lokoja, Olusoji stressed that the future political relevance of Okunland depends largely on unity, strategic patience, and disciplined political organization, rather than haste or internal rivalry. According to him, the lessons of 2023 must not be ignored if the zone hopes to negotiate power effectively in the coming years. Olusoji argued that rather than dissipating energy on premature power struggles, the Okun people should begin a deliberate process of reconciliation, consensus-building, an...

By Wilson Macaulay  Hon. Clement Ofovwi aka General Oloye, Special Assistant to the Governor  on Security Matters, have. hailed Oborevwori over Flyover Project at Uromi Junction In what he described as one of the most visionary and people-focused infrastructural interventions in the history of Delta State, Hon. Clement Ofovwi, popularly known as General Oloye,  commended the Governor for the ongoing flyover project at the ever-busy Uromi Junction. Speaking during an on-the-spot assessment of the project, Hon. Ofovwi hailed Governor Oborevwori’s leadership as strategic, responsive, and transformational, noting that the Uromi Junction flyover is not just a road project but a bold statement of the administration’s commitment to safety, economic growth, and urban renewal. According to him, the Uromi Junction had for decades remained a notorious traffic choke-point and accident-prone axis, linking major commercial and residential corridors within the state. He noted that the f...

By Wilson Macaulay WARRI In a sweeping and unequivocal endorsement that cuts through years of controversy surrounding the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), the National Chairman of Amnesty Phase Three, General Ogidigba Godstime Ogidigba, has declared that the appointment of Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro as Administrator marks the definitive answer to what he described as a decade of failure, drift and missed opportunities within the Programme. Reacting to persistent agitations, protests and petitions targeted at the Amnesty Office, General Ogidigba offered a detailed assessment of the Programme’s troubled past and its emerging renaissance under Otuaro’s leadership, insisting that the current Administrator has restored direction, credibility and hope to thousands of Niger Delta youths. A Programme That Lost Its Way According to General Ogidigba, the Amnesty Programme suffered a steady decline following the exit of former Administrator Hon. Kingsley Kuku, noting that the period that foll...

By Wilson Macaulay As Burutu South steadily approaches a defining political moment ahead of the 2027 general elections, one name continues to resonate across creek communities, riverine settlements and urban wards alike—Barrister Oweilaemi Pereotubo. According to Ebikabowei Kedikumo, a political observer and grassroots advocate from Ayakoromo Town, Barrister Oweilaemi represents a new political consciousness capable of redefining leadership and representation in the constituency. Kedikumo argues that Burutu South’s political challenge has never been the absence of leaders, but the absence of effective leadership rooted in empathy, accountability and vision. In this context, Barrister Oweilaemi stands out as a tested figure whose actions precede his ambition. Long before signalling interest in elective office, he had already immersed himself in the work of social intervention, youth development and community upliftment. At the heart of his growing influence is the Barrister Oweilaemi Fo...

By Wilson Macaulay A Delta-born Ijaw leader, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has implored the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to consider and appoint an Ijaw man as the next Vice-Chancellor of the Dennis Osadebay University,  Asaba. According to him, the call is driven by concerns over the lack of Ijaw representation in the university leadership, despite the community's contributions to the institution's establishment. He pointed out that no Ijaw individual has held a Vice-Chancellorship or principal officer position in the state's new universities, and argued that qualified Ijaw candidates with academic integrity, administrative competence, and professionalism are available for the role. The Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom and Activist expressed the confidence that appointing an Ijaw Vice-Chancellor would address perceived neglect and promote inclusivity in university leadership, giving Ijaw people a sense of belonging in Delta State's ed...

WARRI By Youdonghan Kemes The Youth O’Clock Movement has thrown its full weight behind the recent comments of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, on the long-standing neglect of the Niger Delta, declaring its readiness to move beyond advocacy to concrete action aimed at addressing environmental degradation and socio-economic injustice in the region. The movement, in conjunction with Hon. Daniel Ezekiel, aka Aluta, House of Representatives Aspirant for Warri Federal Constituency, has vowed to champion youth-driven initiatives that translate words into meaningful outcomes. Reacting to the Olu of Warri’s widely acclaimed BBC interview, the youth-based movement described the monarch’s intervention as courageous, timely, and reflective of the true condition of oil-producing communities whose sacrifices have sustained Nigeria’s economy for decades. Youth O’Clock noted that the Olu of Warri’s forthright remarks on oil pollution, poverty, and underdevelopment in Warri and other ...

By Wilson Macaulay Port Harcourt  In a decisive move to stem the escalating political tension in Rivers State and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic integrity, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) on Monday formally flagged off its much-anticipated Peace Mission, with former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, leading the high-powered reconciliation initiative. The launch of the peace mission, which took place in Port Harcourt, is widely seen as a watershed moment in efforts to resolve the protracted political crisis that has disrupted governance, polarized political actors and threatened socio-economic stability in one of Nigeria’s most strategic states. Addressing political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups and representatives of youth and women organisations at the ceremony, Chief Agabi stressed that genuine reconciliation, anchored on truth, forgiveness and mutual respect, remains the only viable pathway to endurin...

By Wilson Macaulay BOMADI  A fresh wave of political tension is unfolding in Bomadi Local Government Area following allegations that a group of dissident councillors is orchestrating a plot to destabilise the council for personal and political gain. The allegations were made public by Hon l Godday Zipamor Ogbein Ama, Chairman of the Bomadi Diaspora Legislators, a body that  represents the collective interest and common position of the Bomadi people at home and in Diaspora. In a statement issued on Monday, Ama accused the councillors of promoting political instability and attempting to unlawfully initiate an impeachment process against the council’s leadership, driven by what he described as “personal interest, egotism, and over-bloated political ambition.” According to Diaspora Group, the alleged plan includes the removal of the authentic legislative leadership of the council, followed by the dissident  councillors’ defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “If thi...

  Rivers State once again stands at the epicenter of Nigeria’s political fault lines as the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has entered the fray with a forceful intervention, describing the renewed impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara as a direct assault on democracy, peace, and national stability. In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, the INC — the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw nation worldwide — warned that the unfolding political drama is no longer a local quarrel but a national emergency capable of destabilizing the entire Niger Delta region if not urgently contained. The organization dismissed the impeachment attempt, the third since 2023, as a dangerous political obsession rather than a constitutional necessity. “This is no longer about personalities or ethnic sentiments. This is about whether Nigeria’s democracy will survive coordinated political sabotage,” the INC declared. A Democracy Stress Test According to the INC, the impeachment effort r...

By Wilson Macaulay The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body of the South-South geopolitical zone, has waded decisively into the escalating political crisis rocking Rivers State, following the decision of the State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy. In a strongly worded press statement jointly signed by: King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR – Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass & Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees, Obong (Arc.) Victor Attah – Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State & Co-Chairman, BOT Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON – National Chairman, PANDEF, issued after an emergency meeting of its Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, PANDEF expressed grave concern over the deteriorating political atmosphere in Rivers  State, warning that the unfolding developments pose serious risks to peace, stability and governance not only in Rivers State but across the Niger Delta and Nigeria at l...

By Wilson Macaulay WARRI In a colourful and well-attended ceremony at Ishaka Hotel, Refinery Road, Effurun, the Delta State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole SAN, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, inaugurated Olorogun Victor Akpor Okumagba, JP., FNHR, AICMC, as the new President of the Delta State Association of Justices of the Peace. The Attorney General, represented by M. Okorefe Esq., Principal State Counsel, Ministry of Justice, described the Association as an indispensable partner in the administration of justice, stressing that “justice and peace are inseparable twins.” He reminded members of their statutory responsibilities—preserving peace, authenticating documents, mediating disputes, issuing processes, considering bail, and serving as community representatives. He particularly emphasized the newly strengthened role of Justices of the Peace under Section 73 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, which mandates their presence during the...

As the nation navigates into another robust electioneering era, the political drum beats gathered momentum on Sunday, as leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta Central Senatorial District strategizes for 2027 general elections. The stakeholders meeting held at the PTI Conference Centre in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state, had in attendance the shakers and movers in Delta Central politics, and they unanimously reaffirmed their unwavering loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, emphasizing unity, discipline, and collective victory in the 2027 general elections. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN, urged party members to remain steadfast and united, cautioning aspirants that party tickets would not be secured without grassroots endorsement.  He commended President Bola Tinubu for his invaluable strategic efforts to improving national security and economic remodelling wh...

By Wilson Macaulay The Trade Union Congress (TUC), Delta State Council, has elected Comrade Wilson Asekutu as its new Chairman. He emerged unopposed at the first quadrennial delegates’ conference held in Asaba, marking a seamless transition of leadership within the state labour movement. The President General of the TUC, Comrade Festus Osifo, who was represented at the conference by Comrade Oluchi-Favour Ubani, described the peaceful electoral process as a clear reflection of the maturity, discipline, and democratic strength of the Congress in Delta State. He commended stakeholders for their shared determination to consolidate a stronger and more resilient TUC across all levels. Osifo congratulated the newly elected executive committee and expressed confidence that their four-year tenure would be characterized by renewed vigour, steadfast commitment, and impactful service to the Nigerian workforce. He further praised the outgoing executive led by Comrade Martins Bolum for what he terme...

By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq. In the realm of governance, public opinion stands as a potent force that shapes the trajectory of a nation. In Nigeria, a country striving to perfect its democratic processes, understanding and harnessing public opinion is crucial for effective governance. But how exactly does public opinion influence the government's decision-making process, and what mechanisms are in place to ensure that the voices of Nigerians are heard and valued? Public opinion serves as a vital guide for policymakers, offering insights into the needs, aspirations, and concerns of the populace. By tapping into this reservoir of collective wisdom, the government can craft policies that are not only relevant but also effective in addressing the myriad challenges facing the nation. Whether it's tackling issues of economic inequality, improving healthcare, or enhancing security, public opinion provides a roadmap for action that resonates with the people. Several channels faci...

As part of its efforts to attract investments and stimulate economic growth, the Delta State government has designed several projects under the Delta Special Economic Zone, to stimulate industrial growth capable of creating over 280,000 jobs. Director General of Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr (Barr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, disclosed on Wednesday that the projects include; Kwale Industrial Park and other parks in the pipeline, such as the KoKo Free Trade Zone, Warri Industrial Business Park, ICT Park Asaba, Fertilizer Blending Plant in Ika North East, and the Delta Green Agro-Allied Industrial Zone at Osubi,  and the Delta Animal Fodder Farm and Tomato Processing Facility at Ute-Ogbeje. According to him, the Kwale Industrial Park, a flagship project of the Delta State government, is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attract investments in various industries, and boost economic growth and development in the state.  Dr Oghenes...

By Bulou Kosin, Warri    Former militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo recently made a public appearance from the creeks after over a decade. His moves sent tongues wagging in a babel of opinions. Keen observers however see Tompolo ringing true as the Ijaw, nay Niger Delta leader and former war lord from Gbaramatu Kingdom that has morphed to a political marksman. Such ones apparently read aright his steps, telling that Tompolo was clearing the fog over his avowed commitment to President Tinubu's re-election come 2027! His first port of call was Osadebey House, Asaba, seat of Delta State Government. He honoured invitation as Chief Launcher of the Delta State Security Trust Fund instituted by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori now leader of his new party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking through the ebullient Managing Director of his oil facilities surveillance company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd, Chief Kestin Pondi, Tompolo declared: “We ...

By Wilson Macaulay,   WARRI NIGERIA  General Godstime Ogidigba, the newly elected National Chairman and the leadership of the Phase 3 Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the 23 Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, describing their democratic victory and cooperation as a beacon of stability in the Niger Delta. In a statement signed by the newly elected National Chairman of PAP Phase 3, Gen. Godstime Ogidigba, the group also lauded the extraordinary peacebuilding role played by High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpomupolo, popularly known as Tompolo. According to the statement, Tompolo’s recent 52nd birthday anniversary transcended the usual celebrations, transforming into a historic platform that facilitated the reconciliation between Governor Fubara and his political leader, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike. ...

By Wilson Macaulay  Warri The Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Area, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, has called on the Urhobo Ex-Militants Forum to throw their weight behind the second-term ambitions of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing the numerous developmental strides being recorded under their administrations. Olorogun Oyibode made the call on Monday when he received the leadership of the Urhobo Ex-Militants Forum on a solidarity visit at the Udu Council Secretariat Otor - Udu. According to Oyibode, Governor Oborevwori's delivery of the MORE Agenda has repositioned Delta State on the path of sustainable growth and infrastructural advancement, describing the state as "a construction site" due to the volume of ongoing projects. “ Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has shown uncommon leadership, prudence, and passion for the development of Delta State. I urge you to continue to mobilise your members to support him now...