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Powerful Oil Theft Cabal Accused of Targeting Tompolo, Otuaro, Kyari with Blackmail
By Divine Perezide
The Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) has expressed concern over what it describes as a high-level, internationally orchestrated blackmail campaign against key figures in the fight against oil theft. The group identified the Chairman of Tantita Security Services, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, and the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, as the main targets of this campaign.
In a statement released on Sunday by its President, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, the IYN alleged that a “venomous cabal of oil thieves” is behind a well-funded smear campaign. The group highlighted a recent protest outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, which it claims was orchestrated by this cabal to spread false criminal allegations against the trio.
The IYN called on National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and other security agencies to thoroughly investigate those responsible for the blackmail and ensure they face justice. The group further urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain steadfast in his administration’s efforts to combat oil theft, emphasizing the need to protect the gains made in increasing crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
International Network of Oil Thieves Accused
According to Ebikabo and Ebiaridor, the cabal, in collaboration with international partners, is using illicit wealth to undermine national security and economic stability. The IYN described the cabal as a “deadly network” intent on reversing the progress made under the Tinubu administration and disrupting efforts led by Tantita Security Services, the NNPCL, and the PAP.
“It is not surprising that such a powerful group, which has been profiting immensely from oil theft for years, would resist attempts to dismantle their operations,” the statement read. “Their campaign, including the recent protest at the UN, is a shameful attack on Nigeria’s image, economy, and leadership.”
The IYN also suggested that individuals who failed to secure appointments in the Presidential Amnesty Programme may be contributing to the campaign against Otuaro. It noted that Otuaro’s efforts to sustain peace and deepen dialogue in the Niger Delta might be a source of frustration for these detractors.
Call for Support and Firm Action
The IYN appealed to other organizations in the Niger Delta to back the ongoing fight against oil theft and support the leadership of Tantita Security Services, the NNPCL, and the PAP.
“We are shocked by the lengths to which this cabal will go to malign hardworking individuals who are dedicated to their lawful duties in the Niger Delta,” the group said. “Their actions are a direct attack on the progress Nigeria has made in combating oil theft.”
The IYN lauded Tompolo, Kyari, and Otuaro for their efforts, urging them to remain resolute despite the attacks. “The fact that these oil thieves are focusing their energy on discrediting them shows how impactful their work has been in curbing illegal activities in the region,” the statement concluded.
The group reiterated its support for the Tinubu administration’s efforts to tackle oil theft, calling for sustained action to protect the nation’s economy and security from the influence of the alleged oil theft cabal.
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Boro Day: Opudu, Otuaro to Grace 2025 Celebration in Warri.
By Tama Peretengboro
The Chairman, Waterways and Land Security Committee, Chief Boro Opudu, and the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro will lead dignitaries at the 57th Boro Day Celebration organised by the Ijaw Youth Council, Western Zone.
While Chief Boro will oversee the memorial event as Chairman of the Day, Dr. Otuaro will stand in as Special Guest of Honour.
The event themed ‘The Genesis of the 12 Days Revolution Struggle: Our Pains and Gains in Retrospect’ is slated for Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Tunde Smooth Playground, along NPA Expressway, Warri, Delta State.
Activities include a vibrant procession showcasing the spirit and resilience of the Ijaw people together with an insightful symposium reflecting on the legacy of the 12 Days Revolution.
The IYC Western Zone, in collaboration with the 2025 Boro Day Committee, uses this medium to invite all clans, youth bodies, critical stakeholders, and concerned parties to join us as we celebrate and reflect on the impact of Boro.
Tare Magbei
Information Officer, IYC Western Zone
Secretary, 57th Boro Day Committee, IYC Western Zone
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Takeme calls on Deltans to Join Burutu people in Honouring Pa. Clark
By Admin
Burutu, Delta State – The Executive Chairman of Burutu local Government Area, High chief Dr. Julius Takeme(JP),PhD, has extended an open invitation to all Nigerians to unite with the people of Burutu in paying their final respects to the revered Ijaw patriarch, Pa. Sen. Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
Dr.Takeme assured the public of Burutu’s readiness to receive all guests with warmth and dignity throughout the duration of the funeral events. He emphasized that the Burutu people are fully prepared to host dignitaries, mourners, and will-wishers who will gather to honour the life and legacy of the Elder Statesman.
These the Burutu LGA Chairman said while taking an on-tge-spot assessment of the arena in Kiagbodo on May 10, 2025.
Iduwinivoice had earlier reported that the week-long funeral ceremonies for the respected southern and middle belt leader commenced since May 7, 2025 in Abuja, will climax on May 12 before final interment on May 13. And come to a close on May 17 with a Thanksgiving service.
As part of the official plans, Pa. Clark’s body is scheduled to be flown from Abuja to Yenagoa on Monday, may 12, where it will make a ceremonial stop at the iconic Izon ware (Ijaw House). From there, the remains will be transported to his residence in Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri, for further tributes.
The final journey will take the body to Kiagbodo town in Burutu local Government Area for traditional and social wake-keeping ceremonies, culminating in his interment on Tuesday, May 13 2025.
Pa. Edwin Clark, know for his towering influence in Nigerian politics and advocacy for the rights of the Niger Delta and other oppressed people, is being remembered nationwide for his enduring legacy of leadership and service.
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Tribute: A GIANT’S LEGACY: CHIEF EDWIN CLARK’S TIMLESS IMPACT.
By Prof. Binebai
In the pantheon of Nigerian legends, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark stands as a colossus, his presence casting a long shadow over the landscape of Nigeria’ s history. Like a mighty baobab tree, his roots dug deep into the earth, nourished by the rich soil of his convictions. His voice, a thunderclap that shook the foundations of power, echoed through the corridors of time, a clarion call to justice and righteousness.
As a titan of Nigerian politics, Chief Clark’s stature was imposing, his gaze piercing, and his words imbued with the weight of wisdom. He strode through the treacherous waters of Nigerian politics with the certainty of a man who knew his purpose, leaving in his wake a trail of transformative impact. His was a life that defied the limits of mortality, his legacy a burning ember that would ignite generations to come.
Like the great River Niger, which flows through the heart of our nation, Chief Clark’s life was a strong evidence of the power of perseverance and determination. He navigated the twists and turns of Nigeria’s tumultuous history with the skill of a seasoned navigator, always keeping his eyes fixed on the horizon of a better tomorrow. His was a journey marked by courage,conviction, and an unbending commitment to the principles of justice and equality.
In Nigerian politics, Chief Kiagbodo Clark was a mythical figure, a demigod whose exploits would be told and retold for generations to come. His name became synonymous with wisdom, integrity, and statesmanship, a ray of hope in a world beset by darkness and despair. His legacy would inspire countless others to follow in his footsteps, striving to make a difference in the lives of their fellow human beings.
As the sun sets on his mortal coil, Chief Clark’s spirit remains, a shining presence that continues to guide and inspire. His voice, though silenced, still echoes through the chambers of our collective memory, reminding us of the power of conviction and the importance of standing up for what is right. His life was a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for greatness, a flame that would burn brightly for generations to come.
In the annals of Nigerian history, Chief Clark’s name would be engraved in letters of gold, a signature of his enduring legacy. His was a life that would be celebrated, his achievements revered, and his memory cherished. As a nation, we would continue to draw inspiration from his remarkable journey, striving to emulate his example of leadership, wisdom, and courage.
As we bid farewell to this titan of Nigerian politics and the foremost Ijaw nationalist, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy would live on, a guiding light that would illuminate the path to a brighter future. Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark may have left us, but his spirit remains a powerful reminder of the impact one man can have on the lives of many. His was a life that would be remembered for generations to come, a shining example of what it means to live a life of purpose, conviction, and service to humanity.