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PANDEF Mourns the Passing of Elder Statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo
By Admin – IduwiniVoice
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a revered elder statesman, nationalist, and advocate for justice, democracy, and equality. In a heartfelt tribute, PANDEF described the late icon as a towering figure who dedicated his 96 years to the relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria.
Recognizing his pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape, the group lauded his unwavering commitment to unity, democratic governance, and inter-regional collaboration. PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, conveyed condolences to the Yoruba nation and Pa Adebanjo’s family, emphasizing that his legacy of courage, resilience, and advocacy will continue to inspire generations.
See details below:
“PAN-NIGER DELTA FORUM (PANDEF)
“PRESS STATEMENT
“IN PA AYO ADEBANJO, WE MOURN A GREAT TITAN OF OUR NATION
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees and National Leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and the entire people of the South-South geopolitical zone, we are profoundly shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a legendary icon and elder statesman who dedicated an extraordinary 96 years to activism, championing justice, equality, and freedom for the Nigerian people.
“The news of his demise has left us in deep sorrow as we struggle to come to terms with the loss of this distinguished lawyer, politician, and statesman, PANDEF recounts that he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history even predating it’s independence.
“Throughout his illustrious career, Pa Adebanjo was a steadfast advocate for democratic governance, human rights, and social justice. His relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria inspired generations to strive for excellence and demand accountability from their leaders. His contributions to the country’s struggle for independence, his role in shaping the Action Group and Afenifere, and his unwavering support for the marginalized and oppressed will forever be remembered.
“We particularly acknowledge that it is to his credit that relations between Afenifere and PANDEF flourished, fostering a spirit of truth and justice in Nigeria. This achievement highlights his dedication to unity and intra group collaboration.
“Indeed, unntil his passing, Pa Adebanjo was the co-founder and deputy chairman, alongside Chief E.K. Clark, in the Southern and Middle Belt Forum—a platform that brings together leaders from the South East, South South, South West, and North Central regions. This forum continues to play a crucial role in promoting dialogue and understanding across Nigeria’s diverse regions, including close interraction withArewa Consutative Forum and Northern EldersForum.
“PANDEF joins all other Nigerian patriots to celebrate Pa Adebanjo’s inspirational life, the last great titan of the Chief Obafemi Awolowo disciples, as a symbol of hope, resilience, and determination As he bows out today, his legacy reminds us that one person can make a significant impact and that collective action can drive transformative change in our
“Our heartfelt condolences, especially of his personal friend and partner, Chief EK Clark, goes out to the family of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and the great people of the Yoruba nation who have lost a beloved son, leader, and champion. May they find solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind for us all.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Ambassador Godknows Igali, OON
PANDEF NATIONAL CHAIRMAN
Dr. Braduce Angozi, a two-time governorship contender in Delta State, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday anniversary.
Angozi who was a former commissioner of Delta State applauded the governor for the peace and stability in the state.
He further emphasised that the governor had taken infrastructural development of the state to another enviable level, citing numerous bridges and massive road constructions going in the state.
Dr Angozi praised the governor’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and progress, noting that under his leadership, strides have been made in various sectors including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
The former Chairman of Burutu Local Government Council Dr. Angozi commended the governor’s resilience and determination, pointing out that the governor’s ability to inspire unity and foster collaboration among diverse groups has been instrumental in driving positive change.
He encouraged the governor to remain steadfast in his mission to improve the lives of all Deltans and to work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for the state.
While Dr Angozi acknowledged the several contributions that Governor Oborevwori had made to the development of the state and the improvement of the lives of its citizens, he wished him good health, wisdom, and countless blessings in the year ahead.
By Favour Bibaikefie
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High Chief (Dr.) Dennis Otuaro (PhD.), has extended warm felicitations to the Governor of Delta State, Rt3. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the celebration of his 62nd birthday. In a heartfelt message, Otuaro described the governor as a visionary leader whose administration has fostered remarkable progress, unity, and peace across the state.
According to Otuaro, Oborevwori’s tenure has not only rekindled hope amongst the people but has also strengthened the foundations of development in Delta. He lauded the governor’s sterling performance and unwavering commitment to service, affirming that Deltans remain confident in his ability to lead the state to a greater future.
This was contained in a statement, signed by
Mr Igoniko Oduma, the Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme.
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.
Otuaro described the governor as a worthy leader who is proving provided an exemplary leadership resulting in speedy development in the state.
He stressed that Oborevwori was strengthening the existing peace, development, and unity in the state.
The PAP Administrator said that the people of the state believed in the governor’s ability to lead the state, and they were satisfied with his sterling performance.
He said the state was on the march to a great future with Oborevwori in the saddle.
While celebrating the governor, Otuaro said, “I wholeheartedly felicitate His Excellency, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, on the occasion of your 62nd birthday.
“Your Excellency has provided remarkable leadership, strengthening the existing peace, development, and unity in the state.
“It is a fact beyond contestation that Deltans are satisfied with your sterling performance.
“With you in the saddle, Delta State is assured of a great future.”
“Otuaro prayed to the Almighty God to sustain His blessings of wisdom and good health upon Oborevwori to continue to render service to Delta State and, indeed, Nigeria” the statement read.
Photo: PENglobal Incorporated
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Ijaw Youth Council Celebrates Governor Douye Diri On His Birthday, Hails His Developmental Impact in Bayelsa
By Favour Bibaikefie – IduwiniVoice
Yenagoa, June 4,2025 – The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has extended warm birthday wishes to His Excellencey, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, describing him as a beacon of progress and a true embodiment of Ijaw pride
In a press statement signed by the Council’s Spokesman, Amb. (DR) Binebai Yerin Princewill, the IYC praised Governor Diri for his commitment to development, peace, and inclusive governance. The Council acknowledged his transformative leadership and lauded him for his strides in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and economic diplomacy.
“The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has Congratulated His Excellencey Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State On his birth anniversary, describing him as a champion of Development in Bayelsa State.”
The IYC noted that Governor Diri ‘s has brought visible improvements to the state, reflecting his deep sense of preparedness and comments even before he assumed office.
“Governor Douye Diri ‘s performance as Governor of our dear State within the past years in office shows how prepared, versatile and committed he was before becoming Governor of Bayelsa State as he is truly the Governor general of Ijaw Nation, today Bayelsa State is gradually having an encouraging look due to the developmental strides of Diri. His prosperity agenda is no doubt touching all sectors in Bayelsa State.”
The statement also highlighted the Governor’s peaceful deposition and unwavering support for ijaw institutions, stating:
“As a council, the Governor’s peaceful deposition in Bayelsa State, his love and support for Council’s activities and ijaw nation truly stands him out, Ijaw nation is truly proud of you as posterity will judge you right.”
Beyond local transportation, the IYC commended Diri ‘s effort in attracting investments, most notably his engagement with the Aliko Dangote Group.
“However, Governor Douye Diri is not only transferring Bayelsa State with massive road projects and political appointments to ijaw Youth but also wooing investors to Bayelsa State with the latest move being the Aliko Dangote Group of companies where in Aliko Dangote was in Bayelsa State himself for investment purpose.”
Calling for unity among ijaw people, the IYC urged collective support for the Governor’s development agenda:
“Ijaw is one and we will continue to be one, this is a call from council that we must all rally round our dear Governor to support his transformational drive in building the Bayelsa State of our dream. The Governor is doing well hence we must do everything to support him.”
The Council also used the occasion to recall Diri ‘s role during the funeral of the late Pa Edwin Clark and his contributions to strengthening Ijaw organizations like the INC and IYC.
“Council recognized the role you played before and during the burial of Late Pa Edwin Clark, Your positive drive in strengthening Ijaw critical institutions like the INC AND IYC.”
Furthermore, the IYC advocated for increased federal presence in Bayelsa State:
“We are assuring you your Excellency, the Governor of Bayelsa State that we are already lending our voice as a council that president Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all relevant authorities in the Nigerian State should as a matter of urgency consider and increase the number of Federal Local Governments Councils in Bayelsa State as we have been cheated and treated unfairly over the years by successive Governments at the centre with just eight local government council.”
In closing, the IYC offered prayers for Governor Diri ‘s continued strength and success:
“It is our prayer that the Lord Almighty shall continue to envelop you with sound health, long life and prosperity and may he give you more knowledge and unprecedented wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of Bayelsa State. Congratulations once again our dear Governor.”
Governor Diri ‘s leadership continues to inspire confidence among ijaw youths, and the IYC ‘s message reflects the growing support he enjoys for his bold vision of a prosperous Bayelsa.