Opinion
Egbesu Religion: A Sacred Covenant with the Ijaw Elohim – Revival, Dialogue, and Cultural Significance
By: Prof. Benedict Binebai
Egbesu Religion: A Sacred Covenant with the Ijaw Elohim. In a moment of profound sanctity and timeless significance, the ancestors of the Ijaw people forged an enduring covenant with Egbesu, the majestic Elohim of the Ijaw planet Earth. This hallowed indigenous religion of the Ijaw, steeped in the mists of tradition and mysticism, found an epoch of unparalleled prominence in the Tompolo era. Through indefatigable efforts, Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo—a former militant general turned venerable chief priest of Egbesu and kindred deities—laboured zealously not only to revive the splendour of this ancient faith but also to unfurl its essence onto the national and global stage. Amidst this renaissance, many across tribal boundaries and geographic landscapes who align themselves with Tompolo and partake in the contemplation, discourse, and practices pertaining to the Egbesu religion have been branded by others as pagans and devotees of idols, couched in eloquent yet often contentious terminology.
The narrative of Egbesu’s sacred bond with the Ijaw ancestors is one of mystical grandeur, where the Elohim Egbesu reigns as a potent symbol of justice and spiritual vigour in the Niger Delta’s cultural tapestry. Chief Ekpemupolo’s endeavours have woven a compelling narrative of revival and outreach, embedding the Egbesu religion in broader dialogues of culture and spirituality. Yet, this visibility has drawn diverse perceptions, with some viewing adherents through the lens of traditional paganism or idolatry. Developing and practising the Egbesu religion isn’t satanic, nor is it sin or idolatry. Egbesu is worshipped by Ijaw faithful as a national divinity, akin to how Indians, Chinese, and Japanese people worship their own divinities. The worship of Egbesu is deeply rooted in Ijaw spirituality, symbolising hope, freedom, and development. Criticism of Egbesu worship may stem from cultural and religious differences, lack of understanding, or historical contexts of traditional religions facing suppression or criticism.
Just as the *luminous tapestries of Hinduism* weave through the cultural fabric of India, the *ancient wisdoms of Buddhism and Taoism* cascade like mystical rivers through China’s spiritual landscape, and the *ethereal beauty of Shintoism* whispers secrets of nature to the soul of Japan. The Egbesu religion plays a vital role in Ijaw spirituality and cultural identity. Egbesu worship involves elements like rituals and symbols, emphasising Egbesu’s sacred nature in Ijaw tradition. They have their indigenous religion, which they built and protected over time. These are globally accepted religions that defer from Christian⁶ religion in terms of worship. They have different methodologies. Interestingly, Indian, Chinese, and Japanese Christians have not condemned those religions the way the Ijaws are doing to their own cultural religion. In a harmonious ballet of beliefs, these Eastern nations embrace their traditional faiths with a grace that bespeaks deep cultural reverence. Amidst the pluralistic melodies of their societies, Christians in these lands coexist with indigenous traditions in a symphony of spiritual diversity. Cultural diversity and religious freedom are fundamental aspects of human societies, contributing to the richness and complexity of global interactions. Respect for diversity, protection of rights, and cultural exchange promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue. Challenges include balancing rights and sensitivities, promoting understanding, and addressing discrimination. Examples of cultural and religious diversity include multicultural societies, interfaith dialogue, and cultural festivals showcasing diversity and promoting inclusivity.
Promoting interfaith dialogue involves fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation among people of different religious backgrounds. This can be achieved by *Encouraging Open Conversations*: creating spaces for people from different faiths to share their beliefs, practices, and values; *Focusing on Commonalities*: highlighting shared values like compassion, peace, and community service to build bridges; *Educating About Different Faiths*: learning about other religions fosters empathy and reduces misconceptions; *Organising Interfaith Events*: activities like interfaith prayers, cultural festivals, or community service projects promote unity; and *Engaging in Respectful Listening*: listening to others’ perspectives without judgement to build trust. Benefits of interfaith dialogue include promoting peace and understanding, encouraging cooperation, and enhancing cultural awareness. Challenges involve respecting differences, avoiding proselytising, and building trust gradually.
Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) is the spiritual overlord, playing a pivotal role in revising and revitalising the Egbesu religion. Through his indefatigable efforts, Tompolo has brought significant attention to the Egbesu religion, embedding it in broader cultural and spiritual dialogues. His work has been instrumental in the revival of the Egbesu faith among the Ijaw people.
Opinion
Dr. Mulade Laments Poor Developmwntal State of Delta Oil-producing Communities Despite Huge 13% Accruals
By: Divine Perezide
The living conditions and developmental stayts of Delta citizens have once again come under review in comparing dividends versus 13% derivation funds amidst other federal allocations. Observers believe that the people of Delta State have continued to suffer untold hardship despite the 13% oil derivation funds accruable to the oil-rich State, popular human and environmental rights activist.
CAddi his voice to this assertions is Comrade Chief Dr. Mulade Sheriff, a foremost environmental rights and good governance advocate.
According to Mulade, the Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient Gbaramatu kingdom, an oil-prospecting Kindom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, “the funds do not translate into significant development in oil-producing communities, where residents often experience environmental degradation, poor infrastructure and neglect from goverment at all levels”.
The activist alleged that “the sufferings of Deltans are aggravated by those who manipulated the 13 percent derivation to the detriment of others, especially the host communities”.
Mulade made the assertions while speaking with journalists at the Africa for Peace Games village, Ugolo/Osubi, in Okpe Local Government Area on Sunday.
He said, “People of oil producing communities are wallowing in untold hardship as the reality affects all Deltans who should ordinarily benefit massively being part of oil producing states such as Akwa-Ibom, Rivers, Cross River, Edo, Bayelsa, Abia, Ondo, Imo, Anambra, and recently, Lagos State.
“So far, nothing has been done as regards N1.3trillion Naira of the 13% Derivatives paid to the Delta State Government within the eight years tenure of the immediate past governor of the State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
“Despite the bold steps taken by stakeholders, the case has suffered some setback becuase of political interferenc. But the push is not over.
“The Niger Delta region is still suffering from massive infrastructure decay, widespread poverty and environmental degradation, among numerous others as the 13% Percent derivation funds are not used for the development of oil-producing and bearing communities.
“The funds are now budget tools being used by most of the states, instead of using the funds for the actual purpose they were meant for”.
Mulade spoke further, “Delta State is a major beneficiary of the 13% derivation fund which is a constitutional provision in Nigeria that mandates 13% of the revenue generated from natural resources be allocated to the oil-producing states.
“As one of the country’s most significant oil-producing states, Delta State consistently receives the highest share of the derivation fund among all eligible states.
“In the first five months of 2025, Delta received ₦185.16 billion, the largest allocation among the nine oil-producing states.
“Between June 2023 and May 2024, Delta State’s share amounted to ₦211.69 billion.
“The state also received a significant 29% of the total 13% oil derivation funds distributed across the country from 2015 to 2023.
“The funds do not translate into significant development in oil-producing communities, where residents often experience environmental degradation, poor infrastructure and abject poverty.
“Delta State had reportedly withheld a large portion of the derivation funds from the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), the agency responsible for developing oil-producing communities”.
It will be recalled that the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Stakeholders Forum recently despatched an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu raising similar allegations.
Its quiet unfortunate that DESOPADEC currently exist on newspapers, paid media houses and has become a tool for government to compensate political foot soldiers, he lamented.
By: Derick Peretengboro
Prominent Nigerian businessman and philanthropist Obinna Iyegbu, widely known as Obi Cubana, has delivered an inspiring message to young Nigerians, urging them to channel their energy into overcoming poverty rather than engaging in unhealthy rivalries.
In his advice, Obi Cubana emphasized that true growth is not determined by how long someone has been pursuing a venture but by how effectively they execute it. He cautioned youths against unnecessary competition, stressing that in life, “overtaking happens,” and as such, everyone should be treated with respect and important.
“The race isn’t between you and anyone, but against you and poverty forever, and be a role model to the next generation,” he said.
The message was shared during his visit to Enviable Tricycles, Enviable Transport, and Enviable Logistics Ltd., where he highlighted the need for resilience, focus, and the pursuit of excellence as key tools for empowerment and nation-building.
Observation note that Obi Cubana’s call resonates at a time when young Nigerians are seeking practical ways to navigate economic challenges and build sustainable futures.
Opinion
“Dr. Otuaro’s Successful Deployment Of Over 142 Niger Deltans For Onshore And Offshore Postgraduate Studies Highly Commendable” – Ozobo
Call for support towards Otuaro
By Divine Perezide
Popular Niger Delta activist Comrade Ozobo Austin, known within his close circle as the ‘king of the dragons,’ has expressed deep satisfaction with the leadership style of Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro PhD, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), especially for the timely deployment of 142 beneficiaries to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom on Offshore Scholarship.
Ozobo said Dr. Dennis Otuaro has upgraded the face to the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty programme for ex-agitators which was completely bastardized by the previous administrations, adding that Otuaro’s people-centric leadership as PAP Administrator has set the agency apart to to envy of all. He also wondered if any other agency of the Federal Government has performed well like the PAP is currently doing.
While commending him, Ozobo said Dr Otuaro is detribalised, accommodating, most friendly and performing administrator of the programme, adding that the PAP beneficiaries, critical stakeholders and all Niger Delta youths should encourage him to do more for the beneficiaries of the program.
He also appealed to people with genuine concerns and challenges to approach Otuaro through the appropriate channels, adding he has shown demonstrable will to address every genuine concerns relating to the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
Ozobo, alias the ‘senior advocate of the Niger Delta oppressed people’ also urged Dr. Dennis Otuaro to continue his good works and should not listen to the campaign of calumny by sponsored voices by enemies of Niger Delta, assuring that all well-meaning Niger Deltans were behind him.
The activist further congratulated the successful delegates, urging them to use the opportunity to build their future and avoid engaging in activities that could truncate their studies abroad by the foreign authorities.
Recall, Dr. Otuaro earlier emphasised that the students were carefully placed in competitive and professional courses designed to contribute to socio-economic growth, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that the initiative aimed to bridge the human capital development gap in the Niger Delta region.
However, at the flag-off event, the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to PAP for the opportunity, promising to make good use of the training and serve as worthy ambassadors of their families, communities, and the Niger Delta. Some officials, including the Technical Assistant to the PAP Administrator, Edgar Daniel, and the Head of PAP’s Education Department, Dr. Charles Ariye, delivered talks on social and cultural challenges, diplomatic and security considerations, and academic demands of studying in the UK.
The programme has also distributed laptops to scholarship recipients to support their research and academic work abroad. PAP’s focus on human capital development in the Niger Delta region is expected to yield long-term benefits, contributing to the area’s socio-economic advancement.
Ozobo’s commendation speaks volumes of the positive impact of PAP’s efforts under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership.