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Full Text: A Speech by Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, President Ijaw National Congress Global, presented on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, at the Emergency All-Inclusive Critical Stakeholders Meeting on the State of the Ijaw Nation and in particular the lingering Political Crisis in Rivers State.
“Being Text of a Brief Speech by Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, President Ijaw National Congress Global, presented on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, at the Emergency All-Inclusive Critical Stakeholders Meeting on the State of the Ijaw Nation and in particular the lingering Political Crisis in Rivers State.
Protocol:
“Your Excellencies, Distinguished Elders, Respected Chiefs, Women and Youth Leaders, Esteemed Stakeholders, and Fellow Sons and Daughters of the Ijaw Nation, Gentlemen of the Press.
“I humbly stand before you today, not merely as your President of our highly revered foremost socio-cultural organization, but as a conduit for the collective voice of our people – a people defined by resilience, dignity, integrity, slow to anger, peace loving and an unwavering commitment and uncommon determination for justice, unity of purpose, equity and self-determination.
“We assemble here as concerned, responsible and patriotic Ijaw leaders in our own rights, at this pivotal and crucial juncture in our history, to soberly reflect on issues that pose a threat to our existence, including our individual and corporate well-being. It is imperative to stress that this decisive moment demands no lamentations but clarity of vision, resolute actions, and strategic exactness.
“It is common knowledge that Ijaw people, in spite of being one of the four largest ethnic nationalities in this country, have for too long suffered and endured multiple systemic injustices, political balkanization and disenfranchisement, economic marginalization and deprivation, environmental degradation, human rights abuses, neglect and social exclusion, and many other associated maladies that have threatened our survival, peace, and sustainable development. This reality is regrettable when considered against the fact that the Ijaws have, since the birth of this country, made massive contributions to the all-round sustainability of this hegemonic nation. We can no longer continue to be slaves and beggars in our own land that is stupendously blessed with resources that can make any people anywhere in the world great, prosperous, and happy.
“The recent imposition of emergency rule and the suspension of our dear son, His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara, under whatever guise, constitute a grave assault on the principles of justice, democratic governance, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate. This audacious infraction on our people in Rivers State (who have been out of governance for 24 years), is not a partisan issue; it is a fundamental challenge to the constitutional framework that safeguards the rights and autonomy of every Nigerian citizen. It is a clarion call for the Ijaw Nation, and all advocates of justice at the national and international levels, to stand unequivocally in defense of constitutional order and the inherent right of every ethnic nationality to prosper without coercion or suppression.
“The recent unguided, disgustive, inflammatory and provocative utterances and actions taken against us by that Ikwerre-born inconsequential drunk and cheap drug addict, with the support of a few of our own Rivers Ijaw brothers, and in connivance with the powers-that-be in the three arms of our government are condemnable. These actions and inactions, emanating from these highly placed and sensitive quarters, have only exacerbated our fury. These also constitute the denigration, oppression, and mockery of our collective reputation.
“Our response to redeeming our image and repositioning ourselves to access, explore, exploit, control, and manage our God-given resources for our common good will be characterized by strategic resolve, not reactive emotions. We shall navigate this path expeditiously with wisdom, prioritizing strategic actions over impulsive reactions, and fostering unity as our impenetrable shield against division.
“Today, I wish to, on behalf of the National Executive Council of the INC, implore our leaders and stakeholders to assist us in forging a unified front, articulating a singular purpose, and executing a coordinated strategy. The Ijaw Nation, renowned for its indomitable spirit, must now exemplify strategic leadership, not only for our immediate interests but for the preservation of democratic values throughout Nigeria.
“Because this special gathering is not intended to be yet another Talk Shop, but an avenue to renew and revamp our commitment to properly coordinated lines of action, that would reshape the historical, legal and socio-economic landscape of the Ijaw struggle, we must not be talking too much but be seen to be working to talk, to ensure that future generations are bequeathed a Nation that is free, peaceful and respected internationally.
“Therefore, let us positively utilize this forum to develop precise, robust, and actionable strategic plans for our immediate, medium, and long-term implementation. The focal areas should include:
“Prioritize Dialogue with Strategic Intent: Engage in dialogue, but with a clear articulation of our non-negotiable demands and a strategic framework for achieving them.
“Leverage Collective Influence Strategically: Mobilize our combined traditional, political, economic, and social capital to demand the immediate restoration of constitutional order and Governor Fubara’s mandate, utilizing targeted and impactful actions.
“Forge Pan-Niger Delta Solidarity: Build alliances across ethnic lines within the Niger Delta and beyond, recognizing that an attack on one is an attack on all, and coordinate our actions for maximum impact.
“Engagement in Legal Battles: Efforts to engage in legal battles in our national and international courts, to high-level diplomatic interactions and alliances with global institutions and world leaders, should be heightened. The time to amplify our collective voice, expand and strengthen our influence and lay a solid foundation for long-term sovereignty is now or never.
“Establish Actionable Outcomes and Accountability: Ensure this gathering culminates in concrete resolutions, defined responsibilities, and measurable outcomes, with a clear timeline for implementation and accountability.
“Let us remember that our strength is not merely numerical but derives from our unwavering unity and love for our motherland. The Ijaw spirit, when provoked and fused, is an unstoppable force. Let us transcend personal differences and vested interests, anchoring ourselves in the enduring principle of unity that has sustained us through generations.
“As we deliberate today, let our words and decisions be guided by strategic foresight, wisdom, and a profound awareness of our historical responsibility. The decisions we make here will reverberate through the annals of our history.
“This address would be grossly inadequate if we fail to appreciate and commend our fellow Ijaw men of good conscience, Niger Deltans, Nigerians, and the international community for their unflinching support for our cause for justice and equity. We are vindicated in our assertion that this is not an inter-ethnic war or a war against the Nigerian nation-state, but a desperate fight for state capture against the masses and leaders (like Sim) who believe that the commonwealth of the people must be committed to their advancement and development.
“Finally, we urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to promptly reconsider its actions and respect the sovereign will of the people of Rivers State. The Ijaw Nation will not passively witness the humiliation of its sons and daughters or the erosion of its democratic space.
“We leave you with this imperative: Strategic unity is our paramount strength. Strategic wisdom is our guiding light. Strategic action is our path to victory. Let this be our unshakable commitment, now and in the days to come.
“Thank you, and God bless the Ijaw Nation.
“Long Live Ijaw Nation!”
Prof Benjamin Ogele Okaba
President, Ijaw National Congress Global
By Warefa Pereke.
April 2, 2025.
The CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Iduwini Voice Newspaper, Dr. Bibaikefie Clintin Peretengboro, has extended a sincere and heartfelt appreciation to all donors, attendees, and well-wishers who contributed to the resounding success of the newspaper’s unveiling ceremony.
The highly anticipated event, which took place on March 29, 2025, at the prestigious MBB Event Center, Refinery Road Effurun, Delta State, Nigeria, marked a significant milestone in the history of Iduwini Voice Newspaper.
Dr. Peretengboro expressed deep gratitude to the numerous individuals and organizations that supported the newspaper’s launch. “We are overwhelmed with joy and appreciation for the outpouring of support we received from our donors, attendees, and well-wishers,” Dr. Peretengboro said. “Your contributions, whether financial, moral, or otherwise, have been invaluable to us, and we are deeply grateful.”
The CEO and Editor-in-Chief also extended special greetings to the following persons:
Chief Dr. Julius Takeme JP. (PhD), Chairman, Burutu LGA, Hon. Julius Pondi, Member Representing Burutu Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, President Ijaw National Congress, Chief Comrade Sheriff Mulade, DG. Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Pastor Adonis Osarobo, the Zonal Pastor of the Redeemed Christian church, Comrade Newworld Endoro, Chairman, Odimodi Community, Hon. Dennis Yenbri Bibaikefie, Mr. Akin Benikrukru, PIA Chairman, Iduwini Host Community Development Board, Comrade Isaiah Tamaraunimi Ingo, SA to the NDDC Chairman, and the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), for their tireless efforts in promoting the newspaper’s launch.
Dr. Peretengboro also thanked the organizers, volunteers, and staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of the event.
Iduwini Voice Newspaper is committed to providing accurate, timely, and engaging content to its readers, while promoting the values of fairness, justice, and equality. With the support of its donors, attendees, and well-wishers, the newspaper is set to make a meaningful impact in the region.
Again, we at Iduwini Voice extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have supported the newspaper’s launch. We look forward to continuing to serve our readers and the clan with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” Dr. Bibaikefie concluded.
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Guest Article: The Battle for Nigeria’s Oil Security – Exposing the Forces Undermining National Revenue & the Tompolo Factor
By Tosan Blessing
Long before the conspiracy of evil men led EFCC to declare Tompolo wanted over a case the EFCC could not directly pursue, a case where the facts in issue revolves around the ownership of the land upon which the Nigerian Maritime University was built for which the federal Executive council paid a paltry 13 billion out of a projected 26billion being a buy over of Mieka Diving institute, propety of Tompolo, which property became part of the charter facility of the Nigerian Maritime University, Tompolo and some itsekiri elements were the ones the pipeline security contract was given. Soon after in the unwarranted and cynical rage of the then Hon Minister of Transportation, the contract was pulled off Tompolo and given to one of the APC ilks known for circumvention and volte face characteristics. Once this company this guy represents took over it became business as usual. Even the companys MD/CEO visited Tompolo and said he was going to offer him 900m as part of his commitment to rein in him into what they were doing in the oil river but known for being averse to greed, Tompolo refused, telling that company’s MD/CEO to go ahead with his job, that they are brothers. No one raised the issue of the scope of works given to that company then. Under the watch of that company over 80 percent of oil revenue went into private pockets. At this time the nations foreign reserves began to deplete. The sub national governments began to live by Paris loans refund. No Nigerian or CIvil societies organisations questioned the activities of that interlocutor survellance company. It took Mr Bashir Jamoh a then DG of NIMASA, even in the seeding congruence of losing his job to allege that the new company engaged in pipeline protection for NNPC and by extension ancillary revenue sourcing for NIMASA had not been able to meet its projected revenue ceiling. He insisted that a previous Messrs Global West run by Tompolo and others, evilly removed from the job by the conspiracy of evil power brokers in government then was doing better and collecting thrice as much to breaking its given fiscal ceiling. The NNPC board ruffled by the alarm coming from a government agency announced it was taking its part of the job of pipeline surveillance from that company. It was at this instance given the energy emergency, that Tantita came on a national rescue and in quick raids it conducted even against the open aversion for its operation by some elements of the military, the nation is beginning to see the results- illegal pipelines here and there have been toppled, arrest and decommissioning of bunkering vessels, sacking of kpofire artesanal activities, and other evil grandstanders running kiti kiti kata kata. Now that oil revenue has peaked the evil profiteers have re emerged and in the name of legal actions are asking for an order mandamus for Tantita to produce the scope of its assignment. I argue that Tantita has no business with any third party intruder on the job it got freehold from the NNPCL that was publicly quoted and bidded for. Any one asking for such spurious order should approach the NNPCL. I further argue that if God cannot manage his own people in Egypt but ensured all of them died in a difficult journey through the wilderness, the presidency needs to go after these evil men who ensured this countrys export output had remained at a perilous margin with concomitant effect on the country’s GDP and growth economics to clear their doubts of their evil demeanours everywhere and their accomplices. I think if the government can summon the will to do this it will checkmate this errant attitude of criminals who still want to ensure that the Nigerian State remain rentier.
The 57th Boro Day 2025 Central Zone Planning Committee has officially rolled out the schedule of events for this year’s celebration. The announcement was made by the chairman of the planning committee, Evangelist Parkins Ogede, following the committee’s maiden meeting held in Yenagoa, on Sunday 30th Match 2025.
According to the chairman, this year’s Boro Day Central Zone celebrations will serve as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Ijaw people. He emphasized that the events are in line with the Central Zone’s theme: “Our Heritage, Our Pride- Boro Lives on”
Scheduled Events
Day 1: Tuesday, 13th May 2025 – Boat Regatta & Wrestling
• BOAT REGATTA COMPETITION
• Participants: The 8 LGAs in the Central Zone & Abua-Odual
• Time: 10 AM
• Venue: Ox-Bow Lake, Yenagoa, BYS
• Prizes: Cash rewards for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners
• WRESTLING MATCH
• Featuring two top wrestlers from Ijaw Nation and their supporters
• Time: 5 PM
• Venue: Kaiama Town
Day 2: Wednesday, 14th May 2025 – CULTURAL DISPLAY INTER LGA COMPETITION
• Participants: The 8 LGAs in the Central Zone & Abua-Odual
• Time: 11 AM
• Venue: Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, BYS
• Prizes: Cash rewards for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners
Day 3: Thursday, 15th May 2025 – BORO MEMORIAL LECTURE, DINNER AND AWARD NIGHT.
• Venue: Golden Tulip Hotel, Onopa, Yenagoa
• Time: 2 PM
MEMORIAL FOOTBALL MATCH: IYC National Executivies/Central Zone Vs Clans in Central Zone
Time: 8am
Day 4: Friday, 16th May 2025 – BORO DAY PROCESSION PROPER
The Central Zone Planning Committee urges all participants and attendees to prepare for an exciting and memorable Boro Day 2025.