News
IYC Challenges Governor Oborevwori Over Delta Ijaw Community Neglect, Threatens Mass Protest
By Admin
Warri – The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has strongly criticized the Delta State government for what it describes as the continuous marginalization and neglect of Ijaw communities in terms of infrastructural development. Through its National Spokesman, Ambassador Princewill Binebai, the group issued a firm call to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take immediate action in addressing key developmental concerns within the Delta Ijaw region.
Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the long-abandoned permanent site of the Delta State Marine Polytechnic in Burutu Island, Amb. Binebai highlighted a series of unfulfilled projects. These include the completion of the Ayakoromo Bridge, the full development of the Delta State Marine Polytechnic permanent site, the construction of the Ogulagha/Odimodi and Ohoroh/Bomadi roads, the upgrading of the Isena-Ibe Teacher Training College in Bomadi to a university, and the legal establishment of the Directorate for Riverine Infrastructural Development Agency—similar to the existing Warri, Uvwie, and Environs Development Agency.
Additionally, the IYC called on the governor to rectify political imbalances by appointing an Ijaw representative as a commissioner in Warri North LGA and ensuring that Ijaw youths who actively supported his 2023 election campaign are considered for appointments. The group emphasized that addressing these issues is not only in the governor’s best interest but is also essential for equity and justice.
While reaffirming its commitment to peace, law, and order, the IYC stressed that it will remain politically neutral but will not hesitate to mobilize in defense of Ijaw communities when necessary. The council issued a one-month ultimatum for Governor Oborevwori to take concrete steps in resolving these concerns, warning that failure to act would lead to the “Mother of All Protests” against the perceived ethnic bias in Delta State.
Read full statement:
“Press Briefing Held in Burutu by the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide Over Perceived Deliberate Neglect and Underdevelopment of Ijaw Areas in Delta State by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori
4/02/2025
“The Ijaw Youth Council, a leading youth movement in Nigeria, Africa, and the world at large, is saddled with the responsibility of speaking truth to power while protecting and advocating for the rights and better living conditions of the Ijaw people across the globe. We are compelled to address this press briefing due to the alarming situation of deliberate neglect and underdevelopment of Ijaw areas in Delta State.
“It is no longer news that Governor Oborevwori’s government will be two years old by May 2025. The IYC has closely and keenly followed, monitored, and observed the developmental strides and political activities of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Despite our political and economic contributions to the state and the emergence of Governor Oborevwori, the Ijaws are yet to see any concrete project that could be considered a landmark achievement for the Ijaw people in Delta State.
“We are beginning to perceive the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as a Governor who lacks developmental plans or an agenda for the Ijaws. His projects have been viewed as highly sentimental and against all known principles of fairness, justice, and equity. They appear to be twisted and skewed against the Ijaws of Delta State. The Ijaws cannot continue to be disproportionately burdened while others benefit from our contributions.
“The IYC is stating clearly that we cannot continue to be micromanaged by the Governor of Delta State. There is a need to balance his administration, ensuring that all ethnic groups in Delta State have a sense of belonging. Delta State belongs to all of us, and the Ijaw ethnic group is a serious stakeholder in the state. We must be given reasonable attention in terms of development, youth empowerment, and other areas to atone for our contributions toward the emergence of Oborevwori as Governor of Delta State, considering our political and economic contributions.
“As a council, we have keenly followed the 2024 and 2025 budgets of the Delta State Government under Oborevwori’s watch. Apart from the lack of full implementation of the 2024 budget, there is no adequate provision for the Ijaw people. Instead, we see a repetition of projects that could have been addressed in the previous budget.
“●Developmental Attention Be Given To The Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu
“We are using this press conference to call on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently pay serious attention to the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, the only state-owned tertiary institution in Delta Ijaw land. The Polytechnic was established by an act of the Delta State House of Assembly in 2006 and began functioning in 2011. However, from 2011 till date, there is no structure that the Delta State Government has been able to complete at the permanent site. Snakes, reptiles, overgrown weeds, and all forms of dangerous creatures now inhabit the vast expanse of land donated to the school. This is worrisome, especially considering that within months of the establishment of the Southern Delta University at Orerokpe, gigantic structures are now visible everywhere. We need the same energy to be transferred to the long-standing Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu.
“●Completion Of Ayakoromo Bridge, Long Overdue
“For us, it is becoming shameful that the Delta State Government is deliberately manipulating the Ijaw people by deliberately abandoning the Ayakoromo bridge. From Uduaghan to Okowa and from Okowa to Oborevwori, the bridge remains a political subject of debate. What does it really cost for Governor Oborevwori to fix this bridge for the Ijaw people? We are worried if there is something the government is not telling us. We have never seen anywhere in the world where a project fights this hard to come to fruition. The IYC will not tolerate any further delay of this project.
“● The Urgent Need To Fix The Ohoro-Bomadi, Torugbene-Ojobo Road Projects
“Moreover, the Ohoro-Bomadi Road as well as Torugbene-Ojobo Road projects should be given serious attention. It is unfair that all these projects, so vital to the Ijaw people, have remained unattended to by the Delta State Government, particularly Oborevwori’s administration.
“The Ijaw people are also calling on the Delta State Government to send an executive Bill to the Delta State House of Assembly for the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development, Delta State to be permanently backed by law, like the Warri, Uvwie, and Environs Special Area Development Agency and the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency.
“● Correction Of Poltical Anomaly In Warri North
“The IYC urges the Delta State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently correct the political error in Warri North Local Government Area. Only Itsekiris were given the two commissioner slots, whereas it is a local government purely dominated by the Ijaws of Egbema and the Itsekiris. This is highly unfair and a political anomaly that needs correction.
“●Ijaw Youths Who Worked For Governor Oborevwori Should Benefit Like Others
“A significant number of Ijaw youths who toiled and worked for the emergence of Oborevwori as Governor are yet to be appointed to serve in any capacity. Perhaps their crime is that they are from Ijaw, hence they should not benefit. This is appalling, especially when their counterparts from other ethnic stocks, who did not do more than they did during the elections, are thriving in his government. The Ijaw youths have been so neglected.
“● A State Owned University In Ogulagha Kingdom
“As critical stakeholders in Delta State, if our oil money is used to fund various institutions and projects in Delta State, we demand that Ogulagha Kingdom should have a state-owned university as compensation for the many years of oil revenue accruing to the Delta State coffers and the country at large from Ogulagha Kingdom and other Ijaw areas in Delta State.
“● A Tertitary Institution In Bomadi
“The growing population in Bomadi, headquarters of Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, makes it imperative for the Delta State Government to either convert the ancient Isena-ibe Teacher Training College to either a Polytechnic or University to meet the educational needs of Deltans in the area. Bomadi is a rallying settlement for most of the Ijaw people in Delta, Bayelsa, and beyond. We demand that a tertiary institution be established in Bomadi considering the political contribution of the good people of Bomadi towards the growth and development of Delta State.
“Finally, in view of the foregoing, the Ijaw Youth Council is giving the Delta State Government one month, beginning from the day of this publication to address the issues raised, failure to do so within the one month period, the IYC will converge in our large numbers to pass a vote of no confidence on the Governor and to also match our words with action by declaring the mother of all protest against the Governor. We pray that these issues are fixed before things deteriorate to that level, where the falcon can no longer hear the falconer. Let it be on record that the development of Ijaw areas in Delta State going forward is not going to be business as usual for some people.”
Signed.
Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill
Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.
In remains to be seen how the Delta State Government will treat this ultimatum, and if the Ijaw youth will make good their promise should the government fail to take any action.
News
IPF Visit Burutu for On-the-spot Assessment as Dr. Takeme Reiterates Commitment to Sustaining Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda
By Favour Bibaikefie
The Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area in Delta State, Dr. Julius Takeme, has reaffirmed his dedication to sustainable development across the council in consonance with the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori MORE agenda. He made this commitment on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by members of the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) at the local government secretariat.
The visit marked the beginning of an inspection tour by the IPF, a coalition of media executives, across Ijaw local government areas nationwide.
In his address to the IPF delegation, Takeme emphasized that his administration is committed to the MORE AGENDA, a developmental initiative championed by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. He highlighted that within one year, Burutu Local Government has witnessed significant infrastructural improvements under his leadership.
“Guided by Governor Oborevwori’s MORE AGENDA, our administration has undertaken numerous visible infrastructural projects in Burutu,” Takeme stated. “This mandate has driven us to prioritize the transformation of Burutu, leading to the construction of a combined one-kilometer internal road network.”
The Olotu of Obotebe Kingdom further noted that his administration has invested in critical sectors such as public health, sanitation, housing, and civil servant welfare. He pointed out that several senior council officers had previously faced challenging working conditions, which his administration has actively addressed.
Takeme listed key intervention projects, including the renovation of health centers in Labulouseigha and Ofougbene communities, the construction and renovation of senior staff quarters, and the building of residential quarters for the President of the Customary Court. Additional projects include the construction of three modern public toilets, distribution of essential medicines to health centers, and the employment of over 2,000 women to maintain cleanliness within the local government headquarters.
He further disclosed that several other projects are in the pipeline and will be officially commissioned as part of his administration’s one-year anniversary celebrations.
IPF President and Niger Delta activist, Comrade Austin Ozobo, who also serves as the Publisher of Congress Newspaper, explained that the forum’s tour aims to evaluate governance and development across Ijaw communities. He commended Takeme for his efforts and urged him to sustain the momentum in delivering essential services and infrastructure to the people of Burutu.
By Warefa Pereke.
March 31, 2025.
Thousands of Dignitaries and Media Outfits Witnessed the Unveiling of Iduwini Voice Newspaper.
March 29, 2025, will be etched in the annals of history as the day Iduwini Voice Newspaper was officially launched at the prestigious MBB Event Center. The highly anticipated event, drew thousands of dignitaries, media personalities, and enthusiasts from across the region to MBB event Center, Refinery Road Effurun, Delta State.
The launch ceremony, which commenced at 11:00 am, was a testament to the meticulous planning and organization of the Media team. The MBB Event Center was transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, with attendees eagerly awaiting the unveiling of Iduwini Voice Newspaper.
In his welcome address, The Editor-in-Chief and CEO of Iduwini Voice Newspaper, Dr. Peretengboro Clintin Bibaikefie, outlined the publication’s vision and mission, emphasizing its commitment to factual reporting, balanced analysis, and investigative journalism.
“Permit me to say that the idea of Iduwini Voice stemmed from a revolutionary vision that tasked me heavily in a deep ‘wilderness of the mind,’ thronging hard to come up with a catchy, fancy, and contemporary brand name, but kept being guided back to my root…For too long, our stories have been told by others – often with bias, misrepresentation, or outright immission, often intended to manipulate the powers that be against us Africans, Nigerians, Niger Deltans, and Ijaws in particular. The Iduwini Voice was founded on the principle of authenticity, truth, and empowerment. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, but not everyone has the platform to tell it. This is why we boldly adopted the slogan: “Voice of the Voiceless.””
“We will strive to provide our readers with accurate, timely, and engaging content, while also promoting the values of fairness, justice, and equality,” he said.
In his lecture delivered at the occasion of Iduwini Voice Newspaper/TV launch, entitled: “The Digital Tide And The Upsurge of Avant-Garde Journalism”, Professor Benedict Ebimotimi Binebai explored the remarkable journey of Iduwini Voice Newspaper and its impact on the media world. “Iduwini Voice delves into the vision of creativity and innovation that have made it a beacon of Avant-Garde storytelling. Iduwini Voice brings stories from the grassroots, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. It helps to preserve the cultural heritage and traditions of the Niger Delta region, and conducts in-depth investigations into issues like corruption, human rights abuses, and environmental degradation,” he said.
In his keynote address, The Father of the Day, Professor Benjamin Ogele Okaba, President Ijaw National Congress, said that as the Ijaw Nation demonstrates its dedication to the development of the media industry, Iduwini Voice Newspaper will become a leading voice in Nigerian journalism, promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The chief Launcher, Chief Dr. Julius Takeme JP (Phd), The Olotu of Obotebe Kingdom, and Chairman, Burutu Local Government Council, pressed on the need for the Ijaws to support any Ijaw cause financially and otherwise. “We are proud to launch Iduwini Voice Newspaper, a platform that will provide a voice for the voiceless, promote transparency, and hold leaders accountable,” he stated.
Chief Comrade Cheriff Mulade, Director-General, Center For Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), who Chaired the occasion, emphasized the importance of a free and independent press in promoting democracy and good governance. He expressed his commitment to supporting the growth and development of the media industry in Niger Delta.
The event featured a range of activities, including a discussion on the role of the media in promoting democracy, a presentation on the history and significance of Iduwini Voice Newspaper, and a tour of the publication’s state-of-the-art facilities.
As the curtains drew to a close with a vote of thanks offered by Barrister Sam Ikporukpo, attendees were treated to a spectacular display of music, dance, and other performances, showcasing the rich diversity of the Niger Delta region.
Other dignitaries present were Pastor Adonis Osarobo, the Zonal Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Later Rain Zone, Spiritual Father of the Day, Hon. Julius Pondi, Chairman of the House Committee on Environment & Member Representing Burutu Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, Abuja, Comrade Newworld Endoro, Chairman, Odimodi Community, Hon. Dennis Yenbri Bibaikefie, Mr. Akin Benikrukru, PIA Chairman, Iduwini Host Community Development Board, Delta State.
Others were Comrade Isaiah Tamaraunimi Ingo, SA to the NDDC Chairman, Comrade Ozobo Austin,
Publisher of Cogress Newspaper & President, Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF), Mr. Cletus Opukeme,
Publisher of Daily Watch Newspaper,
Also present were Arex Ambrose Akemotubo, CEO, WaffiTv & Auditor of Delta State PDP, Jacobs Brakere Abai, CEO of Gbaramatuvoice, Comrade Mike Ugedi, CEO of Delta Events Tv,
Ekpegha Tamaraupreye,
Publisher of South-South Daily, and a host of others.
In an interview with Media personnel after the lunching, the Editor-in-chief of the Ezon Efie Media outfit, Engr. Warefa Pereke, said that with its lunch, Iduwini Voice Newspaper has set a new standard for journalism in Nigeria, and its commitment to truth, fairness, and accountability is expected to resonate with readers across the Nigeria”.
PHOTO CAPTION: Dignitaries and guests at the launch of Iduwini Voice Newspaper at the MBB Event Center on March 29, 2025.
By Divine Perezide
Prominent Ijaw leaders, including the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Professor Benjamin Okaba, Professor Benedict Binebai, Chief Mulade Sheriff, and others, have rallied behind indigenous Ijaw media organizations, emphasizing the importance of community journalism in advancing the Ijaw cause.
Speaking at the official launch of IduwiniVoice over the weekend in Warri, the leaders acknowledged that the struggle for the Niger Delta’s development has evolved beyond physical confrontation to strategic media advocacy. They stressed that media reportage now serves as the voice of marginalized communities, highlighting the region’s underdevelopment to the wider public.
In their speeches, Professor Okaba, Professor Binebai, Chief Sheriff, and Burutu LGA Chairman, Chief (Dr.) Julius Takeme, underscored the critical role the media plays in Ijaw society.
Chief Sheriff Mulade, chairman of the occasion, praised the publisher of Iduwini Voice, Prince (Dr.) Klintin Bibakefie, and other Ijaw publishers for their dedication to promoting the interests of the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta. He also commended Comrade Ozobo Austin, the national president of the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), for uniting Ijaw media professionals into a formidable force.
INC President Prof. Okaba highlighted the numerous challenges the Ijaw nation has faced over the past year, including political turmoil in Rivers State and the passing of key Ijaw figures such as Pa E.K. Clark. However, he assured that the Ijaw people remain resilient and confident in securing victory in ongoing political struggles, emphasizing that history has shown their ability to overcome adversity.
Professor Benedict Binebai urged Ijaw journalists to uphold principles of truth, accuracy, and fearlessness in their reporting. He referenced the legacy of the late Earnest Ikoli, a pioneering journalist from Ijawland, whose influence continues to inspire indigenous journalists today.
During his keynote lecture, Professor Binebai introduced a new journalistic approach, which he termed Avant-Garde Journalism. This unique concept, he explained, aligns with Ijaw reporters who experience firsthand the political, economic, and environmental injustices faced by their people. He argued that traditional journalism had failed the Ijaw cause due to biased reporting and manipulated narratives, which downplayed the extent of marginalization in the region.
With IduwiniVoice and other Ijaw media outlets championing the undiluted truth in what authorities describe as avant-gardejournalism, the leaders expressed optimism that indigenous journalism will continue to shed light on the struggles of the Ijaw nation and drive meaningful change.
