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IPF Urges FG to Halt Oil Drilling Plans Without Proper Negotiations and Development of the Niger Delta Swamps
By Luck Ebide
The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF), a prominent media organization in the Niger Delta, has called on the federal government to suspend any plans for new oil exploration in the region unless meaningful dialogue and developmental agreements are reached.
This statement follows a report by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), published in ThisDay newspaper on January 4, 2025, which highlighted the need for 123.48 million barrels of crude oil to supply Nigeria’s nine refineries in the first half of 2025. With the Dangote Refinery receiving the largest share, the report emphasized the need for more oil drilling to meet growing domestic and international demands.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, the IPF expressed discontent with the lack of development in the Niger Delta, particularly in the riverine Ijaw areas, despite decades of oil exploration. “We are making it clear that the Ijaw people will no longer permit further drilling of oil wells in our territories unless the federal government addresses critical issues such as capital development and allocates a fairer share of the oil proceeds to the region,” ” our oil money cannot be paying for colossal development elsewhere while we don’t have roads to drive to our ancestral homes, schools for our people to learn, and hospitals to treat our people.” the statement read in part.
The group highlighted the plight of riverine communities, which have suffered the consequences of oil exploitation for over 50 years, including environmental degradation, lack of infrastructure, and health crises. According to the IPF, the government’s neglect has left many parts of the region in darkness and poverty, with no single federal projects implemented since Nigeria’s independence.
The IPF emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of existing oil and gas ownership laws through a roundtable discussion that would prioritize developmental projects in the Ijaw riverine areas before any further oil exploration. “If the federal government cannot engage in such negotiations, they should look elsewhere for oil,” the statement added.
The forum also raised concerns about the future of the Niger Delta, especially Ijaws, once oil reserves are depleted. They cited Oloibiri, the site of Nigeria’s first commercial oil discovery, as a cautionary example of a community left in ruins after its resources were exhausted.
Furthermore, the IPF criticized the disparity in how natural resources are managed across Nigeria. They pointed out that mineral resources such as gold and lead in northern states like Zamfara are treated as private assets for local communities, while oil and gas from the Niger Delta remain under federal control. “If gold, iron ore, and other minerals in the North are considered indigenous resources, then oil and gas in the Niger Delta must also belong to the local people,” the statement argued.
The group called on governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations from the Niger Delta to advocate for the region’s rights and educate the federal government on the need to abandon any plans for new oil exploration in the area without a fair deal for the Ijaws. They stressed that such actions are essential to ensure long-term benefits for both the region and the country.
By Charity Ebi
The emergence of Chief (Amb.) Sheriff Mulade as National Treasurer of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has been described as a strong endorsement of accountability and reform within the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body.
Reacting to the outcome of the April 13, 2026 national elections, the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) said Mulade’s victory reflects the trust reposed in him by delegates across the region, citing his long-standing advocacy for peace, environmental justice, and good governance.
In a statement issued by its President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, the forum noted that the election outcome demonstrates a collective desire among Ijaw stakeholders for transparent financial leadership at a time when the INC is expected to reposition itself for greater impact.
Mulade, who is also the National President of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), clinched the treasurer position after a keen contest that attracted widespread interest within the Niger Delta. His emergence, according to observers, signals a shift toward experienced leadership with a proven record in community engagement and advocacy.
The IPF emphasised that the new treasurer’s reputation for prudence and integrity places him in a strategic position to strengthen financial discipline within the congress. The forum added that effective management of resources would be critical in enabling the INC to meet its objectives and respond to the evolving needs of the Ijaw people.
It further urged stakeholders, including leaders, youths, and affiliated groups, to rally support for the newly elected executives to ensure stability and continuity in the organisation’s programmes.
Analysts view Mulade’s election as a defining moment for the INC, expressing optimism that his leadership in the treasury will contribute to improved transparency and institutional growth.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, development, and responsible leadership across Ijawland, while wishing the new treasurer a productive tenure.
By Favour Bibaikefie
YENAGOA — The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has congratulated High Chief Barr. MacDonald Ebi Igbadiwei on his emergence as President-elect of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) following the April 13, 2026 election held at Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
In a statement released on Monday, the National President of IPF, Ozobo Austin, described Igbadiwei’s victory as a significant turning point for the Ijaw nation, noting that the outcome reflects the collective will and aspirations of the people.
According to the Forum, the mandate given to the President-elect goes beyond electoral success, representing a deeper trust reposed in a leader believed to possess a clear understanding of the region’s historical struggles and the pathway to its progress.
“Igbadiwei rises from the very essence of our land. His emergence signals that the right leadership has taken charge at a critical time,” the statement noted, adding that the moment resonates strongly across Ijaw communities.
The IPF highlighted Igbadiwei’s experience, communication skills, and intellectual depth as qualities that position him to steer the affairs of the Ijaw nation effectively. It expressed confidence that his leadership would foster unity, strengthen communal identity, and advance the socio-political and economic interests of the people.
The Forum further urged the President-elect to remain guided by the collective aspirations of the Ijaw people, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership anchored on cultural values and shared responsibility.
Meanwhile, the IPF called on all aggrieved aspirants and stakeholders in the recently concluded election to set aside their differences in the interest of unity and progress. It described the contest as an internal democratic exercise that should not create lasting divisions among Ijaw people.
The Forum stressed that pressing challenges facing the region—including environmental concerns, development deficits, and political representation—require a united and coordinated approach.
It appealed to former contenders to contribute their ideas, experience, and support to the new leadership, noting that collective effort remains essential in advancing the Ijaw cause.
According to the IPF, history will favour those who prioritise the common good over personal ambition, urging all sons and daughters of Ijaw land to rally behind the new INC leadership in building a stronger and more prosperous future for the nation.
By Favour Bibaikefie
WARRI — A Niger Delta stakeholder, Comrade Seikorowei Victor, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to public service continues to inspire many.
In a goodwill message made available to journalists, Victor praised Tompolo’s enduring dedication to the development of the Niger Delta and the nation at large, noting that his leadership has remained impactful over the years.
“My dear brother, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a.k.a. Tompolo, witnessing your tireless commitment to public service makes me truly proud. You are a visionary leader whose dedication to the Niger Delta and the entire nation inspires us all,” he stated.
The commendation comes as Tompolo marks another year, with tributes pouring in from associates, stakeholders, and admirers across the region, many of whom have acknowledged his role in promoting peace, security, and economic stability in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
Victor further offered prayers for continued strength and success for the revered Ijaw leader, expressing optimism that his contributions to national development would yield even greater results in the years ahead.
“May your new age bring you greater wisdom, strength, and remarkable success in your national assignment. Keep shining the light. Happy birthday, my brother,” he added.
High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a prominent figure in the Niger Delta, has continued to receive widespread recognition for his leadership and role in advancing stability and protecting critical oil infrastructure in the region.
As celebrations continue, stakeholders have reiterated the need to sustain the gains achieved through collaborative efforts in the Niger Delta, while commending Tompolo’s unwavering commitment to service and leadership.