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SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION: GOOD FOR THE REGION, NOT THE BEST FOR IJAW NATION
SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION: GOOD FOR THE REGION, NOT THE BEST FOR IJAW NATION
By Tobouke JEMINE
My recent intimation with a video clip of the
the immediate past Governor of Bayelsa State and current Senator Representing Bayelsa West, Chief Henry Seriake Dickson, in which he was advocating for the establishment of a South-South Development Commission, chased the natural guest of the night from my bedroom — an issue I’ve often pondered.
Sen. Dickson eloquently clarified that Commissions like OMPADEC and the NDDC were established to meet the demands of resource-based areas, and went on to cite states like Abia, Imo, and Ondo, which are not part of the South-South region, but are beneficiaries of commissions like the NDDC.
Our legislators may give their stamp of approval to this Bill. But I do not think that, at this point, South-South Development Commission should be prioritized by the Izon-blooded Legislators in the national halls of lawmakers. I see something better, and I hope, they will see something far better.
I take this diversion from the Templates of Our Socio-Political and Economic History. HISTORY is replete with the enormous sacrifices the IJAW NATION has been making on behalf of the ethnic nationalities in the SOUTH-SOUTH and the NIGERDELTA as a whole, right from the days of anti-colonialism. Our revered father, Chief Harold Dappa-Biriye was in his twenties when he began to fight the cause of the minorities of the Niger-Delta.
Pa Dappa-Biriye was a prominent figure in the fight for minority rights in the Niger Delta region. He founded the Niger Delta Congress, a socio-political organization aimed at uniting the ethnic nationalities of the Niger Delta to achieve economic and political autonomy . In response to the agitations he spearheaded, in 1957, the British Government appointed Sir Henry Willink, a British lawyer and constitutional expert to look into the concerns and fears of the minorities of the emerging nation.
The establishment of the Niger Delta Development Board and the creation of Rivers State in 1967 were offsprings of the sweats and blood of the Harold Dappa-Biriyes, and the Isaac Boros of the Ijaw Nation. They championed the rights of all the ethnic groups in the Niger Delta.
Adaka Boro did not call his Fidel-Castroic dream Ijaw Republic, but he called its THE NIGER-DELTA REPUBLIC, giving emphatic facts to the Fact that the IJAW MAN is accommodating, hospitable, and inclusive in his socio-political orientation. But have we being receiving symbiotic responses for our age- long brotherly kindness?
Consider the civil and environmental rights movement of Kenule Saro-Wiwa! His legacy is tied to the struggles of the Ogoni people. His identification with the plights and agonies of the Ogonis, rather than the broader Niger Delta region did immense justice to the Ogoni Bill of Rights. The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), gained international recognition because Saro-Wiwa was visionary, focused, specific and single-coloured in his strides for the Survival and Liberty of his people.
That Ogoniland is still in the wilderness is not the making of Saro-Wiwa, but the making of men and women who are not brave enough, who are not willing to respond to the mantle of Ken Saro-Wiwa.
But my main task here is to point out that the IJAW NATION SHOULD PRIORITIZE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE IJAW IDENTITY, rather than solely associating with the broader Niger Delta or South-South regions. This distinction would allow the Ijaw people to address their unique challenges and advocate for their specific interests.
Today, we can tell that all the agencies that the Nigerian government has been creating to address our challenges and plights, even before the British flag was hoisted, have yielded no sustainable results in our lives and lands; our neighbours who did not identify with our lethal agitation for freedom and development are now fighting to occupy the Oval Office of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and We’ve been mocked and relegated to the back pew in Rivers — a state that flowed into existence through our rivers and rivulets of sweats and blood.
Caution: shouldn’t we re-assess our actions, retrace our steps, return to our ancestral harmony, ocean of sagacity and put the IZON HOUSE inorder before we continue to play the Big Brother role in the affairs of the Niger Delta and the South-South?
WE SHOULD AGITATE FOR RIVERINE NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY.
Or better still, to be more specific, RIVERINE NIGER-DELTA INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION.
To the Ijaw Nation, I say this, and you do not need to be told that 95% of Ijaw People live in the aquatic, marine, littoral, and coastal regions of the earth of Africa.
But establishing Aquatic Niger Delta Development Commission is a first-layer solution to the developmental challenges of Ijawland. The lack of infrastructures in our communities cannot be effectively tackled by the realities in the Nigerian system. STATE creation and the implementations of the Recommendations of the Mitee-Led Technical Committee on the Niger Delta are the PANACEA to our plights.
If, in this nation, a people are clamouring for a Separate Sun for the East, what strong reasons do we have not to seek and knock for the righteousness of Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States? But we are here in the name of Development Commission…
Hence, we appeal to the Sen.Seriake Dicksons of Bayelsa West, the Hon. Donald Ojogos of Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency in Ondo State, the Sen. Ipalibo Banigos of Rivers West Senatorial District, the Hon. Julius Pondis of Burutu Federal Constituency in Delta State, and their legislative comrades across the creeks and wetlands of the Niger Delta to work in unison and bring this Great Bill into fruition.
Justice!Peace!!! Progress!!! for Ijaw Nation.
© Tobouke Jemine
October 4, 2024
By: Professor Ben Binebai
In the realm of Nigerian leadership, one name resonates with mythical significance – High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, affectionately known as Tompolo. Born on 12 April 1971, in Warri, Delta State, Tompolo has etched his name in the annals of history, leaving an indelible mark on the Niger Delta region. As a former militant commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) and chief priest of the Egbesu deity, he has navigated the treacherous waters of war and peace, leveraging his remarkable journey to bring succour and development to his people.
Tompolo’s metamorphosis from a militant leader to a peace advocate is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the progress of the Niger Delta. His decision to embrace the Amnesty Programme in 2009 marked a turning point, as he laid down arms and picked up the mantle of transformation. Today, he is revered as a hero, celebrated for taming the turbulent waters of the Creek boys and settling major political crises in the region. By putting the Ijaw image on the Nigerian map, Tompolo has redefined the narrative, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Ijaw people to the world.
A nationalist and statesman emerging from the boiling pot of agitation in the Niger Delta, Tompolo has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the development and progress of his people. His agency operates in close collaboration with the government, working tirelessly to implement projects and initiatives that benefit the Niger Delta region. His leadership style is characterised by quiet strength, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of his people. His efforts have earned him recognition and accolades from various quarters, solidifying his position as a dependable pillar of the Ijaw nation.
As the last voice of the Ijaw nation, Tompolo’s legacy continues to inspire hope and progress for generations to come. With institutions established for national economic stability and prosperity, his impact will be felt for years to come. Tompolo’s story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring his people to strive for greatness.
God bless this emergent leader of the Ijaw nation.
By: Ben Binebai
In the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, a city cries out for peace, justice, and unity. Warri, a land of rich cultural heritage and economic significance, has been plagued by recurring crises, sparked by provocative actions and claims of ownership by the Itsekiri group. The cry of Warri is a call to action, a reminder that our diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and that our common humanity is worth fighting for.
The Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri communities have coexisted in Warri for centuries, sharing a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land. Occasionally uniting but deeply disunited because power and hegemony have often overshadowed their shared humanity, the people of Warri yearn for a future where their differences are celebrated, and their commonalities are the foundation of their unity. Warri’s significance extends beyond its current boundaries, as it has been a hub of economic and cultural activity for centuries. Before 1952, Warri was a thriving commercial centre, with the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri communities contributing to its growth and development.
The city’s strategic location and access to the Niger Delta’s vast resources made it an attractive location for trade and commerce. Understanding Warri’s rich history and cultural heritage is essential to finding a lasting solution to the crisis.
It is time for truth to prevail to offer a lasting solution to the Warri crisis. The canoe of godfatherism should be withdrawn for the rule of law and for peace and progress to triumph.
The lie of exclusive ownership of Warri resists termination due to several factors, including:
Outdated court judgments: The Itsekiri establishment continues to rely on outdated court judgments, such as the 1925 judgment, to support their claim of ownership, despite subsequent judgments repudiating its validity.
Lack of political will: Successive governments have failed to address the problem and take the right and just decision, allowing the crisis to persist.
Absolutist claims: The Itsekiri claim is absolutist, while the Urhobo and Ijaw claims are limited, recognising ownership of portions of Warri by other communities.
Historical narratives can be deeply ingrained*: People’s understanding of their history and identity can be shaped by long-standing narratives, making it hard to change their perspectives.
Emotions and biases can override facts: When emotions and biases are strongly tied to a particular narrative, people may resist changing their views, even in the face of contradictory evidence.
Power dynamics can influence narrative control: Those in positions of power may use their influence to shape and maintain certain narratives, making it harder to correct lies and misconceptions.
Moreover, leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Warri. As the saying goes, “When leaders refuse to embrace sacrifice, society dies.” Leaders who prioritise the greater good, make tough decisions, and invest in the future can help build a more harmonious and prosperous society. It is time for the leaders of Warri to put the needs of their people first and work towards a brighter future.
The cry of Warri is a call to action, a reminder that our diversity is a strength, not a weakness. Let us work towards a brighter, more harmonious future, where the beauty of our differences is celebrated, and our common humanity is cherished. May the cry of Warri be heard, and may we rise to the challenge of building a better tomorrow for all its people.
In the realm of the Niger Delta, where the mighty rivers flow and the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crash against the shore, a legendary entity has emerged to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests. Tantita, a name synonymous with protection and vigilance, has become the embodiment of maritime and economic security in Nigeria.
Tantita’s significance extends far beyond its role as a mere maritime security agency. It is a power of hope, a shining example of Nigeria’s determination to protect its waters and harness its economic potential. With its unbending commitment to security and stability, Tantita has become the guardian of Nigeria’s maritime realm, ensuring the safe passage of vessels and the uninterrupted flow of commerce.
Tantita’s impact on Nigeria’s economy cannot be overstated. By protecting the nation’s maritime assets and preventing piracy, oil theft, and other illicit activities, Tantita has helped to safeguard the country’s economic lifeline. The agency’s efforts have ensured the continued flow of oil and gas revenues, which are vital to Nigeria’s economic well-being.
Its significance extends beyond the realm of economics. It is a symbol of national pride, a testament to Nigeria’s ability to protect its sovereignty and defend its interests. The agency’s personnel: Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, Chairman, Mathew Tonlagha, Vice Chairman, Chief Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director and Tare Pondi, General Manager Operations and Technical, are the unsung heroes of Nigeria’s maritime domain, working tirelessly to ensure the security and stability of the nation’s waters.
The federal government should disregard the evil cry of satanic forces against Tantita and instead, continue to support the agency’s efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime interests. Tantita’s work is crucial to the nation’s economic survival, and any attempts to undermine its efforts would be detrimental to the country’s well-being.
As we celebrate Tantita’s significance, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The agency requires continued support and resources to effectively discharge its mandate. We must rally behind Tantita, providing it with the necessary tools and equipment to carry out its duties. By doing so, we can ensure the continued security and stability of Nigeria’s maritime domain and pave the way for a brighter economic future.
I hold strongly, that Tantita is more than just a maritime security agency; it is a guardian of Nigeria’s economic interests, a symbol of national pride, and a legendary hope for the nation’s future. Its significance cannot be overstated, and its efforts will continue to shape Nigeria’s economic destiny.
Prof. BEN BINEBAI