Editorial
CELEBRATING THE ICONIC HISTORIAN OF HISTORY CHIEF DR. OBOKO BELLO.
By Asiayei Enaibo
Old age is one thing that can betray a man without you pointing an accusing finger to it.
Today, old age is gradually betraying the active Chief Dr. Oboko Bello of Gbaramatu Kingdom and he is silent to the Voice of Nature without a word and history could count his activeness and that is the legacy we feel at all point of his existence.
Oboko, that Iconic name in an Ijaw and Niger Delta emancipation struggle Vocabulary.
I am commissioned by my inner voice to write this. Oboko!
The front banners of the intellectual definition of the Niger Delta struggle from Gbaramatu kingdom, one man who has historically defiled colonies of professors in a prejudiced history mentally created to enslave mankind, a man who is an encyclopedia with many references to defend his kingdom is gradually aging, his body weakened from active services of humanity, no longer too strong to attend all the meetings, his body is aging as his cells do not permit him to work like others, though his brain is actively active to speak but his mouth is not willing to speak. His name is Chief Dr. Oboko Bello who was born today to define the Niger Delta Struggle from a perspective the world embraced in his FENDIC Security Vanguard and he was later declared as an intellectual terrorist in America in the year 2008.
“It was on the 22nd of August 2008, A Niger Deltan distinguished for emancipation struggles was arrested, detained for hours and deported home from US where he had gone on non- Violence induction diet and peace campaign. He was accused of terrorism, links with the war in Iraq and predominantly for his genuine Niger Delta emancipation struggles. The news of the arrest, detention and deportation created shock, grief, anger, thoughts of diplomatic reprisal” ( Dewdrops From Nigeria’s Starved Tree, Ekanpou, 2009)
when he Dr. Oboko Bello was agitating selflessly against injustice meted out against the Niger Delta people from the Great Gbaramatu Kingdom by the Federal government and the Multi national oil companies. Now that the Voice of Dr. Oboko’s Radio Channel is low at receiving the frequencies of the emancipation struggle of his people, who is the other Oboko to do the Obokoistic historical analysis of the Modern Voice of Gbaramatu Kingdom.
Yes, great Comrade Joseph Evah, is greatly delighted in your milestones, you have been a reference point of his Excellency, Barr. Dcn. Kingsley Otuaro, the Deputy Governor of Delta State and many others.
I have heard, I have seen, I have declared Chief Dr. Oboko Bello’s Day of celebration now that Oboko is still alive for him to feel the happiness of being loved by his people and for his people.
I have come to join all sons and daughters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, The Ijaw Nation, and the Niger Delta Region to celebrate a father, hero in heroism, leader in leadership, orator in advocacy, a legend in a legendary tales. A traditional historian in Historiography, a defender of the defenceless. A pride son of kingdom-hood and a mentor of a generational leadership, the Pathfinder.
Time and season is like a tide that flows, like the time of the biblical prophets that reigned within their calls.Yes, If it is like the time of the bible, we would have been reading the Book of Prophet Oboko like the Book of Isaiah or the Book of Ezekiel as well as prophet of God to emancipate his people from the under-development, injustice, and deprivation.
No wonder an Oral literally author once said when an old man dies in a community is like a library set ablaze. Now that the library is still alive, all sons and daughters of Gbaramatu Kingdom need to tap from Chief Dr. Oboko Bello for historical pilgrimage to preserving the archives of our Tomorrow.
From the deep thoughts of Bobougbene and Ayakoromo land, I have come with my pen and paper to document those things that I heard about you when I was in primary school.
Dr. Oboko Bello remains Oboko any day any time as a reservoir of knowledge and a research centre of ideas in building the Niger Delta people whenever his services are needed.
It is our prayers that may the Almighty God continue to strengthen you with long life and more grace to keep your goods unrelentingly.
Happy birthday to the Ibebidouwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom.
Congratulations Chief!
Asiayei Enaibo
The Talking Drum
Writes from GbaramatuVoice
By Divine Perezide
Prominent Niger Delta figure and former militant leader, Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo — widely known as Tompolo — has voiced strong optimism that suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, will soon reclaim his position.
Speaking during his birthday celebration held on Saturday in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Tompolo addressed the ongoing political tension in Rivers State and affirmed his belief in Fubara’s return.
Governor Fubara was suspended in March under contentious circumstances, following a directive from President Bola Tinubu. In his place, Ibok-ete Ibas was installed as a sole administrator to oversee the state’s governance for a six-month interim period.
Addressing guests at the event, Tompolo highlighted the unity and determination of the Ijaw Nation, declaring:
“We have only one state, and our focus remains on Bayelsa. If you think power lies solely in being president or governor, and you attempt to undermine Bayelsa, you will face consequences.”
He also expressed the strength and support shared among people of the region, adding:
“One of us is stronger than twenty. Our brother, the governor of Bayelsa State, no matter our political disagreements—will always have our support.”
Turning his attention to Fubara’s situation, Tompolo expressed confidence in a peaceful resolution, saying:
“Even in Rivers State, our son Fubara will return to his rightful place. Dialogue and understanding will prevail.”
Reflecting on the political events that led to Fubara’s rise to office, Tompolo noted that the Ijaw people had been sidelined during that process. He pointed to former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike’s pivotal role, saying:
“Wike is my friend, but when he chose Fubara, no Ijaw man was involved or consulted. Yet, here we are standing for truth.”
Fubara’s suspension, along with that of other elected officials, emerged from a deepening rift between him and Wike, his predecessor—a feud that continues to influence the political climate in Rivers State.
By Prof. Binebai
Oporoza, Delta State – In the depths of the sacred and ancient Aziza forest, where the voices of the ancestors are said to echo through the trees, and the winds awaken the Pacific tides with their fury, a figure was born—not merely of flesh and blood, but of divine purpose. In times when the waters of the Niger Delta roared with strife and resilience, a name began to rise—a name spoken in both reverence and awe: Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, known spiritually as Igologolo, Odokorikodo, Ite, Eferekirikpon.
Described by followers and observers as “a mortal vessel of divine purpose,” Ekpemupolo’s story is interwoven with the identity of the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta struggle. From a land shaped by both abundance and adversity, his emergence is seen not just as historical, but spiritual—a symbol of the unwavering will of a people who have endured waves of challenge and yet remain standing, proud and unbroken.
“In the heart of the pregnant ancient Aziza forest, where whispers of the gods still linger… a legendary figure emerged from the womb of the land itself,” many recount, evoking the spiritual depth of his origin. To his people, he is not merely a man—he is a force, a bearer of vision, a spirit chiselled from the trials of a restless region.
As the Niger Delta continues to navigate the complexities of development, environmental justice, and self-determination, the legacy of Government Ekpemupolo—fondly known as Tompolo—remains a living testament to the strength and spirit of the Ijaw nation. A mortal, yes—but one whose purpose, many believe, is touched by the divine.
Happy 54th Birthday to the GOC!
By Divine Perezide
Pipeline vandalism remains a critical threat to Nigeria’s economy, environment, and public health. Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has taken commendable steps to sensitize citizens, urging them to reject illegal bunkering and pipeline destruction. Their recent awareness campaign, visible in Warri and other key locations in the Niger Delta, emphasizes the need for collective responsibility in protecting national assets.
The messages on the Billboards read unequivocally:
“Don’t vandalize pipelines -Tantita sensitizes Nigerians
“Don’t vandalize pipelines. Say “No” illegal bunkering and don’t be involved in it. It’s dangerous to your health and our environment.
“Join us to save the environment and shore up the economic base of our Nation, Nigeria.
“TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited with a signpost to the People of Okere road and Ibo market in Warri, Delta State.
Signed:
“Management of TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited.”
The above signage has been seen in various strategic locations across major cities like Warri in the Niger Delta
As a nation, we must recognize that pipeline security is vital for economic stability and environmental sustainability. Authorities must complement such awareness efforts with stronger enforcement measures, ensuring that communities actively participate in safeguarding Nigeria’s energy infrastructure for future generations.