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Ijaw Media Professioners Tasks Delta Govt to Disclose Capital Projects Allocated to Ijaw Area in the N979B 2025 Budget
By Divine Perezide
The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF), the top media council representing Ijaw interest globally, has criticized recent claims by Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, the Director General of Orientation and Communication in Delta State, regarding budget allocations for Ijaw riverine communities. Speaking on a Lagos-based radio program, Latimore had asserted that the state’s N979 billion 2025 budget includes major infrastructural projects for Ijaw communities and highlighted efforts by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to empower over 250,000 entrepreneurs through various programs.
Latimore stated that the approved budget featured “improved and renewed rural and riverine mega roads alongside other infrastructure projects aimed at boosting intra and inter-trade opportunities.”
However, the IPF, through a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, challenged the Delta government to substantiate these claims. The group accused the administration of neglecting the oil-rich Ijaw riverine areas and described the government’s approach as deceitful and based on propaganda. According to Austin, a responsible administration would prioritize the welfare of its citizens rather than making empty promises.
“The government operates on lies and propaganda,” the statement read. “A responsible leadership would feel the pains of its people rather than worsen their plight with non-existent, ‘audio’ projects.”
The IPF particularly pointed to the long-delayed Ayakoromo Bridge project as an example of such empty promises. The group argued that the bridge has been consistently featured in budgetary allocations without any significant progress.
During the same radio program, Latimore had also noted that the state government had empowered over 250,000 entrepreneurs and small business owners through the Delta-CARES initiative under the Ministry of Women Affairs and the State Bureau for Wealth and Job Creation. However, the IPF dismissed these claims as fraudulent, insisting that no Ijaw communities or media enterprises were aware of any such opportunities.
The statement continued, “We challenge the Director General to publish the specific projects allocated to Ijaw communities, along with the names and locations of businesses or individuals who benefited from these empowerment programs.”
The IPF further accused Latimore of engaging in political propaganda to bolster the image of the administration at the expense of genuine development in Ijaw communities.
“We won’t tolerate such media charades anymore,” the group emphasized. “These so-called projects are nothing more than beautifully crafted stories by media strategists like Dr. Fred Latimore, who are skilled in propaganda but fail to deliver tangible results for Ijaw development.”
The statement also expressed disappointment over the lack of meaningful progress in Ijaw areas during previous administrations led by Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.
The IPF concluded by urging Governor Oborevwori to provide a detailed breakdown of projects earmarked for Ijaw communities in the 2025 budget. “We want the government to publish a comprehensive list of projects allocated to Delta Ijaw communities, along with the corresponding funds set aside for each. Additionally, we demand transparency regarding the Ayakoromo Bridge project and the names of Ijaw beneficiaries of the D-CARES program,” the statement added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to holding the state government accountable to ensure equitable development across all communities, particularly the marginalized Ijaw riverine areas.
By Charity Ebi
The emergence of Chief (Amb.) Sheriff Mulade as National Treasurer of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has been described as a strong endorsement of accountability and reform within the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body.
Reacting to the outcome of the April 13, 2026 national elections, the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) said Mulade’s victory reflects the trust reposed in him by delegates across the region, citing his long-standing advocacy for peace, environmental justice, and good governance.
In a statement issued by its President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, the forum noted that the election outcome demonstrates a collective desire among Ijaw stakeholders for transparent financial leadership at a time when the INC is expected to reposition itself for greater impact.
Mulade, who is also the National President of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), clinched the treasurer position after a keen contest that attracted widespread interest within the Niger Delta. His emergence, according to observers, signals a shift toward experienced leadership with a proven record in community engagement and advocacy.
The IPF emphasised that the new treasurer’s reputation for prudence and integrity places him in a strategic position to strengthen financial discipline within the congress. The forum added that effective management of resources would be critical in enabling the INC to meet its objectives and respond to the evolving needs of the Ijaw people.
It further urged stakeholders, including leaders, youths, and affiliated groups, to rally support for the newly elected executives to ensure stability and continuity in the organisation’s programmes.
Analysts view Mulade’s election as a defining moment for the INC, expressing optimism that his leadership in the treasury will contribute to improved transparency and institutional growth.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, development, and responsible leadership across Ijawland, while wishing the new treasurer a productive tenure.
By Favour Bibaikefie
YENAGOA — The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has congratulated High Chief Barr. MacDonald Ebi Igbadiwei on his emergence as President-elect of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) following the April 13, 2026 election held at Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
In a statement released on Monday, the National President of IPF, Ozobo Austin, described Igbadiwei’s victory as a significant turning point for the Ijaw nation, noting that the outcome reflects the collective will and aspirations of the people.
According to the Forum, the mandate given to the President-elect goes beyond electoral success, representing a deeper trust reposed in a leader believed to possess a clear understanding of the region’s historical struggles and the pathway to its progress.
“Igbadiwei rises from the very essence of our land. His emergence signals that the right leadership has taken charge at a critical time,” the statement noted, adding that the moment resonates strongly across Ijaw communities.
The IPF highlighted Igbadiwei’s experience, communication skills, and intellectual depth as qualities that position him to steer the affairs of the Ijaw nation effectively. It expressed confidence that his leadership would foster unity, strengthen communal identity, and advance the socio-political and economic interests of the people.
The Forum further urged the President-elect to remain guided by the collective aspirations of the Ijaw people, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership anchored on cultural values and shared responsibility.
Meanwhile, the IPF called on all aggrieved aspirants and stakeholders in the recently concluded election to set aside their differences in the interest of unity and progress. It described the contest as an internal democratic exercise that should not create lasting divisions among Ijaw people.
The Forum stressed that pressing challenges facing the region—including environmental concerns, development deficits, and political representation—require a united and coordinated approach.
It appealed to former contenders to contribute their ideas, experience, and support to the new leadership, noting that collective effort remains essential in advancing the Ijaw cause.
According to the IPF, history will favour those who prioritise the common good over personal ambition, urging all sons and daughters of Ijaw land to rally behind the new INC leadership in building a stronger and more prosperous future for the nation.
By Favour Bibaikefie
WARRI — A Niger Delta stakeholder, Comrade Seikorowei Victor, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to public service continues to inspire many.
In a goodwill message made available to journalists, Victor praised Tompolo’s enduring dedication to the development of the Niger Delta and the nation at large, noting that his leadership has remained impactful over the years.
“My dear brother, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a.k.a. Tompolo, witnessing your tireless commitment to public service makes me truly proud. You are a visionary leader whose dedication to the Niger Delta and the entire nation inspires us all,” he stated.
The commendation comes as Tompolo marks another year, with tributes pouring in from associates, stakeholders, and admirers across the region, many of whom have acknowledged his role in promoting peace, security, and economic stability in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
Victor further offered prayers for continued strength and success for the revered Ijaw leader, expressing optimism that his contributions to national development would yield even greater results in the years ahead.
“May your new age bring you greater wisdom, strength, and remarkable success in your national assignment. Keep shining the light. Happy birthday, my brother,” he added.
High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a prominent figure in the Niger Delta, has continued to receive widespread recognition for his leadership and role in advancing stability and protecting critical oil infrastructure in the region.
As celebrations continue, stakeholders have reiterated the need to sustain the gains achieved through collaborative efforts in the Niger Delta, while commending Tompolo’s unwavering commitment to service and leadership.