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Niger Delta Activist, Mulade Sheriff insists Chairman must come from highest oil producing areas in the state

Warri: Oil and Gas producing communities of Delta State are Jubilating as Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, fixed October 31, to deliver ruling as well as judgement in a suit seeking the sack of the Chairman of the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr Chiedu Ebie, over alleged wrongful appointment.

Justice Abdulmalik fixed the date for both ruling and judgement on Tuesday, shortly after parties in the suit adopted their written addresses as their arguments for and against the originating summons.

Recall that some Niger Delta communities had sued President Bola Tinubu, for allegedly violating the NDDC’s Act by appointing Ebie as NDDC.

The plaintiffs from Bayelsa and Delta States communities had told the court that Ebie was not qualified to occupy the seat of Board Chairman haven not come from, “the oil producing area with the highest quantum of oil production”.

Those who filed the suit include; Chief Goodnews Gereghewei, Chief Eddy Brayei and Mr Jonah Engineyouwei, who sued on behalf of themselves and Bisangbene, Agge and Amatu1 communities in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

President Tinubu, Senate President, Attorney-General of the Federation, NDDC and Ebie are 1st to 5th respondents respectively.

Meanwhile, Jerry Mulade-Aroh representing Gbaramatu Kingdom, Mr Mathew Itsekure, representing Itsekiri Oil and Gas producing communities and Hon Friday Ugedi, representing Egbema Kingdom all in Delta also sought to be joined as plaintiffs in the suit, demanding that is the turn of Itsekiri or Ijaw to produce the chairman as the highest quantum producers.

At Tuesday’s proceedings, plaintiffs through their lawyer Mr Egberipou Sotonye Barakemi, urged the court to dismiss the preliminary objection filed by President Tinubu and the AGF, adding that the court should dismiss the entire case of all the respondents for lacking in merit.

Mrs Maimuna Lami Ashiru, representing President Tinubu and the AGF, Umaru Jibril, representing the National Assembly and Emmanuel Akumaye, representing NDDC and Ebie, in their respective reply urged the court to dismiss the suit for want of jurisdiction.

After listening to all parties, Justice Abdulmalik announced that ruling in the preliminary objection to the suit as well as her judgement in the main suit would be delivered on October 31, this year.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/28/2024, and filed January 11, 2024, the plaintiffs claimed that both President Tinubu and the National Assembly contravened the NDDC Act by screening and appointing Ebie Chiedu as NDDC Board Chairman.

Niger Delta activist Comrade Mulade Sheriff insists that although Ebie is from an oil producing State but, was however not qualified for appointment as board chairman because he was not from the highest oil producing area in Delta State.

Mulade argued that Ebie’s appointment “was done horribly in error for political reasons and is against the clear provisions of the NDDC law. Therefore, called on President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to immediate replacement him with someone with the requisite capacity and competence from core host communities in Delta State to give sense of belonging for participatory inclusiveness.

The Niger Delta-born renowned environmental rights activist has again urged the National Assembly lawmakers to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law irrespective of political affiliation for the interest of Nigerians, especially host communities because we cannot continued to play politics with our daily bastardized environment and future.

“That the screening and confirmation of the 5th defendant by the Nigerian Senate was also done in error and was against the clear provisions of the law.

“That as a result of the facts above and in particular the facts in paragraphs 2 – 11, the appointment of the 5th defendant is null, void and of no effect”.

The plaintiffs through their lawyer, B. B. Abalaba, had asked the court to determine whether Ebie who is from a community with minimal oil production is qualifed to be the chairman of the 4th defendant (Niger Delta Development Commission)?

Other issues raised for determination are: Whether the appointment of the 5th defendant by the 1st defendant as the chairman of the 4th defendant is not in contravention of the NDDC Act?

“Whether the appointment of the 5th defendant by the 1st defendant as the chairman of the 4th defendant is not Illegal null and void?

They therefore prayed the court for an order “setting aside the appointment of the 5th defendant as the chairman of the 4th defendant by the 1s defendant.

“An order of injunction restraining the 5th defendant from assuming office or in any way acting as the chairman of the 4th defendant.

“An order of injunction restraining the 4th defendant from recognizing the 5th defendant as its chairman or allowing him access into its premises for the purpose of beginning or continuing work as its chairman.

“An order of injunction restraining the 5th defendant from holding himself out as the chairman of the 4th defendant”.

A Delta State-born renowned peace and development advocate Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD has picked up the Warri Federal Constituency House of Representatives, Expression of Interest Form from the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.

The widely known Niger Delta environmental rights activist and development advocate expressed confident and victory at the general election billed to hold February 2027 in line with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). I am very happy today for making it possible and I dedicate the form to God Almighty and humanity.

The Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, express deep appreciation to the national leadership of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), His Excellency, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for giving him the opportunity to serve Nigerians particularly his beloved people of Warri Federal constituency: the great Itsekiri, Ijaw and the Urhobo ethnic nationalities, saying “I am the right man for the job at the moment. I represent Peace, Unity, Development and Inclusive People Representation devoid of ethnic sentiment and segregation”, he asserted.

He vow to uphold and promote peaceful coexistence, development and progress among the various ethnic groups. Adding, “I promise to work closely with the revered traditional rulers, stakeholders and political leaders of the constituency to ensure sustainable peace that would attract the desire attention of development to the ancient Warri city and environs, the commercial nerves of Delta State and Nigeria at large, through inclusive advocacy, constructive engagement and dialogue for progress”, he emphasized.

ASABA – A young police officer attached to the patrol unit of the Delta State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, Sergeant Happy Atibaka, has been widely commended for his honesty and professionalism after recovering and returning a lost bag containing valuables to its rightful owner.

The incident occurred during a routine patrol operation when the officer reportedly discovered an unattended bag containing two mobile phones, jewellery, a substantial amount of money and other personal belongings.

Rather than ignoring the discovery, Sergeant Atibaka immediately initiated efforts to identify and trace the owner of the bag.
The officer, alongside ASP Eko and Sergeant Ogwu Chisom, subsequently returned the bag and all its contents intact to the owner, who expressed profound appreciation to the officers and the police authorities for what was described as a rare act of integrity and dedication to duty.

The owner praised the officers for their honesty, noting that the gesture deserved public recognition and encouragement, especially at a time when public confidence in security agencies requires strengthening.

The development has since attracted commendation from residents and members of the public, many of whom described the officers’ conduct as exemplary and worthy of emulation within the Nigeria Police Force.

Observers also called on the leadership of the Force, including the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, and the Delta State Command to continue rewarding officers who distinguish themselves through discipline, integrity and commitment to public service.

The commendation, according to residents, reflects the positive impact of responsible policing and the importance of encouraging officers who uphold the core values of the Force.

By Akpovoke Otiti

UGHELLI – Excitement has continued to build across Ughelli and Udu Federal Constituency following the screening and clearance of Chief Solomon Ahwinahwi to contest for the House of Representatives seat, with supporters describing his emergence as a major boost for quality representation in the constituency.

Stakeholders and party faithful, who reacted to the development, said Ahwinahwi’s clearance has further strengthened confidence among grassroots supporters, youths and community leaders who believe he possesses the experience, influence and leadership capacity needed to attract meaningful development to the area.

According to them, the House of Representatives requires tested individuals with strong grassroots acceptance, wide political reach and practical understanding of the people’s needs, insisting that Ahwinahwi stands tall among those seeking the position.

Some supporters claimed that his empowerment initiatives and humanitarian activities across Ughelli and Udu have continued to earn him admiration both within and outside Delta State, adding that his records in community engagement and accessibility have placed him ahead of many political contenders.

They further argued that his growing popularity was not built on sentiment but on what they described as proven commitment to the welfare of the people and sustained grassroots relationship across the constituency.

A party chieftain, Chief Oviri Okiemute JP who spoke in Ughelli, said: “Chief Solomon Ahwinahwi has shown capacity, courage and leadership. The people are already identifying with his vision because they believe he can provide stronger representation and bring federal presence closer to the grassroots.”

Supporters also intensified the “Don Chizo for House of Reps” campaign slogan, maintaining that the movement behind Ahwinahwi’s aspiration continues to gain momentum ahead of the contest.

By Akpovoke Otiti

Warri – A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. M. A. Mukoro, has cautioned against what he described as the growing arrogance and impunity among some elected politicians, warning that the party risks losing public goodwill if leaders continue to impose candidates and suppress internal democracy.

Mukoro, in a strongly worded statement, urged party faithful and stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue speaking out against opportunists allegedly seeking to mismanage the goodwill of the APC.

According to him, “the arrogance of some elected politicians is becoming unbearable,” stressing that Nigerians should not wait for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, before demanding accountability from public office holders.

He noted that under the Freedom of Information Act, citizens have the constitutional right to question any local government chairman or public official reasonably suspected of financial mismanagement through civil legal processes.

The APC stalwart further called on party members to work collectively in defending democratic values rather than hiding under what he termed “arrogant party leadership status” and allegedly invoking the name of the governor to perpetuate “democratic tyranny.”

Mukoro also warned against the imposition of unpopular candidates ahead of future elections, insisting that political parties must allow credible and widely accepted candidates to emerge in order to attract votes and secure victory at the polls.

“There will be other political parties on the ballot. We must work for popular candidates and not impose candidates if we truly want electoral victory,” he stated.

He further reminded party members that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, remains a constitutionally independent umpire that would not grant special favours to any political party, including the APC.

ASABA – The Acting Nat’l President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP), Akpovoke Otiti, has expressed concern over the growing obsession with fraudulent wealth, luxury lifestyles and certificate driven success among Nigerian youths, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the nation’s future productivity and economic growth.

Speaking on the state of the nation, Otiti criticised the culture of internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo,” noting that many young people now wrongly believe that scamming guarantees a better life.

According to him, “Many think that because they scam for a living, their lives are better. When a yahoo boy gets money, the first thing on his mind is to buy a GLK Benz.

These cars are not manufactured in Africa. The money deceived from foreigners still goes back to them through luxury consumption.”

He lamented that Nigeria has gradually abandoned creativity, production and problem solving, while embracing corruption and materialism.

Otiti recalled that Nigeria was once globally recognised for the exportation of groundnuts, cocoa, rubber and cotton, but regretted that attention has shifted almost entirely to politics and the pursuit of quick wealth.

“Everybody wants to live an expensive lifestyle, drive luxury cars and live in mansions without having any idea of how to create value or solve problems,” he said.

He further decried the nation’s excessive emphasis on paper qualifications instead of practical skills and innovation.
“Nigerians now place more emphasis on A4 paper certificates than skills and creativity.
That mentality is holding the country back,” he added.

Otiti urged Nigerian youths to embrace entrepreneurship, skill acquisition and innovation as pathways to national development and sustainable prosperity.

Umutu – Chief Fred Okiemute Majemite, popularly known as Agbragha-mi-gbrogho, has joined family members, friends, and well wishers in celebrating his foster father, Hon. (Barr.) Sir DBE Ossai, on the occasion of his 89th birthday anniversary and the opening of a newly completed building at his country home in Umutu.

Speaking during the celebration held on May 12, 2026, Chief Majemite praised his foster father for the immense impact, mentorship, and values he acquired from him over the years, describing him as a man of wisdom, discipline, and integrity.

A thanksgiving Mass was conducted by Rev. Fr. Solomon of the Abraka Catholic Parish in honour of the celebrant and the successful dedication of the new building.

Also present at the event was former Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Christopher Ochor Ochor, alongside other dignitaries, associates, and community leaders who came to celebrate the elder statesman.

By Christ Usman (Abuja )

Abuja – The Acting Nat’l President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP), Otiti Treasure, has condemned the reported endorsement of an aspirant for the House of Assembly seat by the Ughelli South United Forum, describing the action as misleading, reckless and lacking democratic legitimacy.

Reacting to the development, Otiti questioned the constitutional role of the forum in partisan political activities, asking whether the group had suddenly transformed into a political party empowered to determine candidates for elective positions.

According to him, endorsements by pressure groups and social forums hold no electoral value where they are disconnected from the structure and leadership of recognized political parties.

“What is the basis for a forum endorsing an aspirant for an election? Is Ughelli South United Forum now a political party?” he queried.

He further criticized politicians who seek validation from non-political groups instead of engaging party structures and grassroots members.

“Rather than consult party stakeholders and loyal members, some persons now run around seeking endorsements from forums that have no constitutional role in elections,” he stated.

Otiti also recalled a recent APC stakeholders’ meeting allegedly convened by Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, at the Government House in Asaba, claiming that several leaders of such forums were denied access because they were not officially recognized as party stakeholders.

“I remember vividly when Gov. Oborevwori called for a stakeholders’ meeting at Government House, Asaba, some few months ago. Majority of these so-called leaders of these forums were all caged outside at the gate,” he alleged.

“None of them were privileged to attend the APC stakeholders’ meeting because their names were not on the list handed to security personnel for screening. So why running to such forums for endorsement?” he asked.

The GOMEP president advised politicians to “spend their money wisely,” insisting that endorsements from unofficial groups do not translate into electoral strength or party legitimacy.

He therefore called on political forums and community groups to refrain from actions capable of creating division, tension and false political impressions ahead of future elections, maintaining that only political parties and the electorate possess the constitutional authority to determine candidates and electoral outcomes.

………Supreme Court judgement did not nullify March 2026 Abuja convention.

By Akpovoke Otiti

Asaba – Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Chairman Dr. Peter Adogbejire Mrakpor SAN has stated that the
Nat’l Secretary Sen. Anyanwu, other Nat’l Officers Suspension Issue ( if any ) was for one month and ended in 2025 before the National Caretaker Working Committee was inaugurated.

According to the Party’s State Chairman, the suspension in question was for only one month period and had no connection whatsoever with the March convention 2026. conducted by the party.

He further maintained that attempts to create an impression that the suspension is for an indefinite period is politically motivated and aimed at causing confusion within the party.
He stated that the National Secretary was not mentioned in the Supreme Court judgment.

Peter A Mrakpor SAN insisted that the convention of 2026 followed due process and remained valid, adding that party members should focus on rebuilding unity instead of fueling unnecessary disputes.

He stated also that anyone buying forms from the Turaki group is just wasting money.

A Police Commissioner, (CP) Ikechukwu Ayodele Aduba, (Rtd) has said the federal government’s selective approach to heritage repatriation and curricular design is unhelpful to unity, feeds agitation, validates cries of marginalization and nothing short of double standard.

He faulted the global publicity and diplomatic pressure for the return of Benin bronzes while Igbo-Ukwu artifacts-evidence that reframes Nigeria antiquity itself remain in British institution with no comparable national campaign for their return.

He stated in a proposal for public lecture by Seashores Global Network (SGN), a global platform committed to advancing leadership, scholarship, cultural intelligence, and strategic dialogue across Africa and the diaspora, just as he demanded policy change, equal treatment of Nigerian heritage in repatriation, education, and national memory.

According to his lecture titled: “Reclaiming Narrative Power: Archeology, History, and the Urgent Task of Nation Building with Sub-title: Lessons From Igno-Ukwu And The Danger Of Historical Amnesis”, the double standard is counter productive and fuels separatist sentiment.

The lecture triggered by a widely reported statement from the Dein of Agbor, His Royal Majesty Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi 1, who asserted, “We are not Igbo, we are Agbor, and we speak Agbor. Do you want to give up a Kingdom that had existed for 2000 years to legal entity created 40 years ago that has no history? Which one do you prefer?” asking Agbor youths. Let us be clear: this is not a harmless gafe. It is a symptom of a national disease”.

The Anambra chieftancy title holder who said the Nigerian state’s approach to repatriation exposed this bias while the selective memory tells one group their heritage is “world heritage,” and another that their is dispensable” maintained that a nation cannot beg for unity while denying the antiquity and contributions of a major constituent group.

Presenting archeological and historical data that refutes claims of “history-less” people of Nigeria, he exposed how historical ignorance fuels disunity, using Delta-South East relations as example, he challenged Nigerian youth, scholars, and diaspora to take up evidence-based narrative production as a civic duty.

According Aduba, the doctrine justified indirect rule and decided ethnic nationalities. Today, it is revived to politically decouple Delta Igbo communities from their kin, east of the Niger. “The logic is simple and dangerous. If you have no shared past, you can have no shared future”.

Aduba, the traditional title holder of Onwa of Onitsha warned that the federal government’s silence on such claims, while it campaigns loudly for Benin bronzes, deepens the wounds and signals selective memory as state policy.

“When traditional rulers, custodians of culture, retail historical falsehood, they fracture national identity. Young people in Delta hear that they are ancient while their cousins in Anambra are “history – less”. That is a recipe for disunity.

“It provides pseudo – intellectual cover for political marginalization. It validates the separatist argument that Nigeria is an artificial construct of peoples with nothing in common.
A nation without control of its historical narrative is a nation at risk. Archeology and disciplined history are antidotes to disintegration.

“The standard version became canon that Igbo people had no worthwhile history until Europeans arrived. Igbo-Ukwu artifacts demolish that claim with material facts. Igbo – Ukwu is not ethnic pride. It is a National fact.

“The version written by colonial officers became the “standard” and we have not fully replaced it. The result: agitation is rife. Cries of marginalization from the South East and parts of Delta are met not with evidence – based integration, but with more erasure”

“Excavated artifacts by Prof. Thurstan Shaw from 1959, Igbo-Ukwu yielded bronze regalia of staggering technical and artistic mastery. Lost-wax casting produced vessels a millimeter thick, interlaced with insects, ropes, and chains – work that rivals any 9th century metallurgy globally. This was not trade import. Crucibles, slag, and unfinished pieces found on site prove indigenous manufacturer. There is no Arab or European imprint here.

“If a people are told they have no past, they are robbed of the confidence to claim a future. That lie fuels the present disunity between Delta Igbo and South- East Igbo. It emboldens a historical statements from public figures. It justifies political marginalization. And it sustains a dangerous silence in National policy” Aduba maintained.