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Ogulagha Ultramodern Secondary School and Classroom Block at NMU are Clear Testaments of Okpoye’s Works – EFG
** Calls for Unity in Defense of Commissioner Okpoye Amid Criticism
By Divine Perezide
In response to escalating tensions and criticisms, the Egbema Focus Group (EFG) has urged for restraint and an end to divisive rhetoric directed at Hon. Spencer Okubo Okpoye, the commissioner representing the Ijaw ethnic nationalities on the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) board. The group’s call for unity follows sharp criticism from Comrade Williams Ayoromiegha Junior, a youth leader from the Ogulagha Kingdom, who has questioned Okpoye’s contributions and leadership.
The EFG, in its defense, has expressed concern that the attacks on Okpoye are rooted in inter-kingdom biases rather than merit-based evaluation. The group emphasized that Okpoye has made significant strides during his tenure, notably highlighted by the recent commissioning of the Ogulagha Ultramodern Secondary School and a classroom block at the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, by Delta State Governor Rt. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Comrade Williams, who serves as the Publicity Secretary for the Ogulagha Kingdom, previously criticized the endorsement of Okpoye by three pan-Ijaw groups, calling it premature and unfounded. He argued that the Ogulagha Kingdom has not seen the positive impact of DESOPADEC under Okpoye’s leadership and urged for endorsements to be based solely on measurable achievements.
In response, a leader of the EFG, Comrade Mingo Meshach Saya Ogumaka, also known as KingdomVoice, cautioned against kingdom-based rivalries and urged for a broader focus. He stressed that criticisms should be directed towards higher authorities, such as the federal government or Delta State, for failing to appoint an Ogulagha indigene to significant positions like Minister of Petroleum or Commissioner for Oil and Gas. Mingo warned that ongoing internal conflicts within the Ijaw ethnic group would only hinder progress.
Mingo further argued that officials should be judged by their overall performance and contributions to the community, rather than being attacked based on tribal or kingdom affiliations. He called for unity among the various Ijaw kingdoms in Delta State and beyond, highlighting that such conflicts were impeding collective development.
The EFG denounced the recent criticism as unhelpful and counterproductive, reaffirming its support for Okpoye and his work for the Ijaw people through DESOPADEC. They emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and collaboration across Ijaw youth groups to advance the interests of the entire Ijaw ethnic nationality.
Furthermore, the EFG argued that the Ogulagha Kingdom Youth Council, which had previously endorsed Okpoye, has maintained its support, citing his dedication and achievements. This The EFG believe was because Okpoye Completed projects left by sons of Ogulagha Kingdom who had served our their tenures. The council noted that Okpoye has made significant contributions to community development and has effectively represented the Ijaw ethnic groups on the DESOPADEC board. The EFG highlighted the need for unity and cooperation among Ijaw leaders to continue fostering progress and development for all Ijaw communities.
In the face of growing internal divisions, the EGF and other groups have called for merit-based recognition and issue-based criticism, emphasizing the need for unity among the Ijaw people to ensure continued development and representation within DESOPADEC and beyond.
News
28,000bpd Ogidigben Oilfield Shutdown by Itsekiri Youth, Under PINL Not Tantita’s Coverage – Tompolo
By Divine Perezide
High Chief (Dr.) Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has disassociated his company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, from the recent protest and shutdown of an oil facility in Warri, Delta State.
Speaking through his media aide, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo PhD., Tompolo clarified that the affected oil field, located in Ugborodo, Warri South-West Local Government Area, does not fall within Tantita’s jurisdiction. He stressed that the facility is under the protection of another security firm, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), which is owned by the Olu of Warri.
“It is not only Tantita that is doing the security job. The Olu of Itsekiri’s company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, is also covering that area,” Bebenimibo explained. He further stated, “The Ogidigben oil field is not under our watch but under Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), a firm linked to the Olu of Itsekiri.”
The facility, currently operated by Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings following its acquisition from Shell, reportedly produces around 28,000 barrels of oil per day. It was shut down on Wednesday by aggrieved members of the Itsekiri community. The protesters, who carried placards, voiced their dissatisfaction over alleged marginalisation in ward delineation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In response to the incident, Bebenimibo emphasized that the protest and the shutdown had no connection to Tompolo or Tantita. “Nobody dares Tantita. The issue has nothing to do with Tantita and Tompolo,” he stated firmly.
The protest remained peaceful, but it successfully brought operations at the facility to a standstill, underlining ongoing tensions related to political representation in the region.
News
“Peace is the Panacea for Development” Dr. Takeme Said as He Inaugurates Burutu Peace and Advocacy Committee
By Favour Bibaikefie
In a bid to strengthen harmony and peaceful coexistence within Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Council Chairman Dr. Julius Takeme on Tuesday formally inaugurated a 23-member Peace Building and Advocacy Committee.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the council secretariat in Burutu, marked a significant step toward fulfilling the chairman’s campaign promises, particularly on conflict resolution and community engagement. The committee, chaired by retired Justice J.F. Daubry, comprises individuals described by Dr. Takeme as “men and women of integrity,” selected for their reputation and dedication to peaceful service.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Takeme outlined the committee’s core responsibilities, which include mediating disputes among individuals, groups, and communities to maintain the prevailing peace in the area. “Your responsibility includes the amicable settlement of disputes between individuals, groups and communities. Please, do your very best to meditate diligently,” he said.
Chief Fidelis Tubotu was appointed Secretary of the committee, while members include Apostle Godsflag Agboun, Chief October Kuro-Ogu, Gen. Brodrick Demeyeibo, Chief Elimina Namah Eselemo, Chief James Nicketen, Barr. B.D. Ekpese, Barr. Torugbene Oloye, Chief Patrick Fufeyin, Chief Gabriel Benede, Chief Lucky Yoweibo, and Dr. (Mrs.) Jennet Abdullahi.
Additional members are Chief Dauyeibo Kitua, Chief Apiakise Apiakise Coleman, Barr. Isa Clark, Hon. Gift Gomeromo, Prince Peter Numa, Chief Torololo Love, Chief Clement Kęmetimibibo, Chief (Mrs.) Ter Okpe, Chief Pukon Samson Eles, Chief Douglas T.M.O, and Chief Fidelis Tubotu.
Dr. Takeme reiterated his administration’s intention to mirror Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s “More Agenda” through proactive peace initiatives and conflict resolution efforts. “We promised to replicate Gov. Oborevwori’s More Agenda in Burutu, and one of our targets is to resolve as many lingering inter and intra-communal disputes. We believe in your individual and collective capabilities to help this government deliver on this promise,” he said.
He further noted, “We want to make Burutu a reflection of Oborevwori’s good governance that has rendered even the main opposition parties speechless.”
The council chairman encouraged committee members to remain upright and committed, emphasizing the importance of including the local chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in their peacebuilding activities. According to him, “CAN is pivotal to peace building.”
In his response on behalf of the committee, Justice Daubry expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them and pledged their unwavering commitment. “We will not disappoint the council,” he assured.
The event was attended by council executive members including Vice Chairman Chief (Mrs.) Georgina Evah; Supervisor for Education, Hon. Okpako Doctor; Supervisor for Agriculture, Hon. Immaculate Birialade; Supervisor for Environment, Hon. Godwin Oro; and Supervisor for Works, Hon. Pudigha Biakpara. Traditional rulers from various communities across the local government were also present, further highlighting the importance of the initiative.
By Divine Perezide
A recent photograph showing the former Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Deacon Kingsley B. Otuaro, in the company of prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has stirred a wave of speculation and political interpretation on social media and beyond.
The image, which has been widely circulated, raised questions about Otuaro’s political affiliations, with some observers hinting at possible realignment or defection. However, Pastor Arex Akemotubo, the spokesperson for Otuaro and the Auditor of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, has come forward to dispel the growing speculation.
In a statement addressing the issue, Akemotubo emphasized that the meeting was not politically motivated, but rather a reflection of statesmanship and democratic engagement.
“It’s normal for leaders across party lines to interact and engage on various national issues of mutual interest,” he said. “Such interactions are a testament to the maturity of our democracy and the spirit of collaboration that transcends party differences.”
Akemotubo’s remarks appear aimed at reinforcing Otuaro’s continued commitment to the PDP, while also highlighting the evolving nature of political discourse in Nigeria, where bipartisan dialogue is increasingly common.
Observers note that Otuaro has maintained a reputation for inclusive leadership and bridge-building throughout his political career, and his recent appearance should not be misread as a signal of political defection.
As the political landscape continues to shift ahead of 2027 elections, such instances of cross-party engagement are expected to grow, underscoring the importance of context in interpreting political interactions.