₦airaland Forum

UNITY OF IJAWS, IMPERATIVE IN FOSTERING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - HON BARR. GODSPOWER TAM OPOROMO

…Delta Ijaw Forum, Bayelsa State Chapter pays courtesy visit to Commissioner, Ijaw Affairs

The Honorable commissioner, Ministry Of Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo has emphasized the importance of Ijaws working together for unity and sustainable progress.

He made the statement when the executive members of the Delta Ijaw Forum, Bayelsa State Chapter paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Ijaw House on Thursday, 11 July 2024.

Hon Oporomo seized the opportunity to outline some of the notable infrastructural strides of the prosperity government led by Sen. Douye Diri that has benefited not just Bayelsans but Deltans as well, such as the construction of Ekeremor road which serves as a link to most Ijaw communities in Delta State.

The Chaiman of the Delta Ijaw Forum, Mr. Stephen Oporomo speaking earlier congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and pledged the readiness of the forum to support the Commissioner on his assignment.

Others present at the courtesy visit are the Vice Chairman, Vivian Doudou, Secretary, Engr Etuatimi Richard, Publicity Secretary, Eric Johnny, Woman Leader, Princess Julie, Youth Leader, Moses Titity, Wefare, Mary Abari.

BYSHA PLANS BETTER PLACEMENT FOR IJAW NATIONALITY

The Bayelsa State House of Assembly Committee on Ijaw National Affairs has indicated its readiness to key into the plans of the present administration and push for the completion of key projects and facilities under the ministry.

The Chairman House Committee on Ijaw National Affairs, Hon. Mitin Living dropped the hint when his committee paid a familiarisation visit to the ministry on Thursday, July 11 at the Ijaw House, along Sani Abacha expressway in Yenagoa.

Hon. Mitin living who represents Ekeremor Constituency 2 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly explained that the visit which is part of the house oversight function was in line with the house policy to rub minds with the ministry for mutual understanding and significant growth as well as foster effective synergy between the legislative and the executive arms of government.

The Ijaw affairs house committee chairman added that the visit was to enable the committee and the ministry to brainstorm and come up with the most cost effective ways to properly showcase the Ijaw ethnic heritage to the outer world.

Hon Miting further stated that time is of the essence and the prosperity government’s agenda under Gov Douye Diri is to see that all projects are completed in due time for the benefit of Bayelsans and the Ijaws at large.

Also speaking, Hon Ebizi Ndiomu Brown, a member of the committee who represents Sagbama Constituency 3 highlighted the importance of the Garden and Recreational Centre, stating that these projects are essential part of the Heroes Park.

Chief Ndiomu added that when the projects are completed, the State would raise revenue from them and promised to draw the attention of governor Douye Diri to the projects.

Earlier in his response, the Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo had assured the committee of the ministry's partnership to achieve it's set objectives.

Hon Oporomo promised that under his watch, the ministry would do her best to place the Ijaw ethnic group at par with other ethnic groups and also on the global map.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mr Agala Douglas Damini appreciated the House Committee for the visit and prayed that the visit serve as the birth of a lasting partnership.

Highpoint of the visit was the tour of facilities under the ministry and Ijaw Heroes Park.

CHIEF (SEN) MELFORD OBIENE OKILO, AN INDISPENSABLE SAGE - HON BARR. GODSPOWER TAM OPOROMO

The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo has described late Chief Melford Obiene Okilo as a sage whose impact is indispensable.

The Commissioner made this statement in his opening remark at the 16th memorial and wreath laying ceremony of late Chief Melford Okilo in Emakalakala, Ogbia Local Government Area.

He extolled Chief Okilo as one of the greatest leaders and political figures to ever emerge from the Niger Delta adding that the late national political leader achieved a lot during his lifetime and his legacies of selfless service and love for humanity cannot be over emphasized.

Hon Oporomo noted that Chief Melford Okilo’s commitment to sustainable development, emancipation of the Niger Delta region and the unity of Nigeria will always be remembered.

He further prayed that his legacies be preserved and developed upon by this generation and the ones yet unborn.

Dignitaries present at the occasion were the Secretary to Bayelsa State Government, Prof Nimibofa Ayawei, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Ijaw National Affairs, Mr Agala Douglas Damini, Chairman traditional rulers Council, Eminence of Ogbia Kingdom, Ogbia Council of Chiefs, Ogbia brotherhood, Permanent Secretaries, family of Melford Okilo among others.

JUST IN

The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo received the pioneer President of Ijaw National Congress (INC), Chief Joshua Fumudoh, alongside Sen Emmanuel Tupele-Ebi Diffa, Bayelsa West representative 1999-2003 in his office today.

Chief Fumudoh and Sen Diffa both eulogized the Governor, Sen Douye Diri for appointing their own who has abundant experience in the Ijaw struggle.

Hon Oporomo on his part appreciated the August visitors and requested to be allowed to tap into their wealth of knowledge as Ijaw ethnic nationality leaders while carrying out his assignment and pledged to put his experience into play for the unity of Ijaw nation.

HON BARR. GODSPOWER TAM OPOROMO’s APPOINTMENT AS IJAW AFFAIRS COMMISSIONER, WELL DESERVED - INC PRESIDENT

The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo has assured the Ijaw National Congress of the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the INC to better the lot of Ijaws worldwide.

The Commissioner gave the assurance when he received a high powered delegation of the INC at his office in Ijaw House.

Hon Oporomo who described the Ministry as service oriented, expressed government’s desire to strengthen the INC through the ministry by working with the leadership to fast track policies and programs that would in turn be beneficial to all Ijaws.

He noted that before his appointment as Commissioner by His Excellency, Sen Douye Diri, he was a member of the foremost Ijaw organization and is aware of some of the challenges and obstacles hindering the smooth operation of the INC and Ijaw Nation.

He further promised that the ministry would work in synergy with the INC in line with the policies of the prosperity administration to proffer relief so the INC would function better.

Earlier, the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba said the visit was to formerly introduce the leadership of the INC to the commissioner and as well congratulate him on his elevation.

Prof. Okaba who expressed faith in the appointment of Hon Oporomo, appreciated the prosperity government led by Sen Douye Diri for appointing a seasoned Ijaw nationalist who had served in various capacities including the office of the National President of Ijaw Students in Nigeria and overseas, a two time National Executive Council member of INC and had extensive knowledge of the activities and struggles of the ordinary Ijaw man.

He further described his appointment as a round peg in a round hole judging from Hon Oporomo‘s antecedents and wealth of experience garnered over the years which has led to his appointment as Commissioner.

The INC President reassured the commissioner of the unflinching support of the Congress to assist the Commissioner deliver on his mandate.

C O U R T E S Y V I S I T

The Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Oporomo received in his office today, the member representing the good people of Burutu Constituency 1 in Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Alapala Anthony Ebitonmo.

The visit was to on behalf of the people of Burutu Constituency 1 congratulate the Commissioner on his appointment and to extend the warm regards of the entire people of the constituency.

IJAW AFFAIRS MINISTRY TO PARTNER INTERVENTIONIST AGENCIES, OIL COMPANY

The Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon Barr. Godspower Tam Oporomo has disclosed plans to engage and partner interventionist agencies as well as oil companies in areas of manpower development and sustainable welfare schemes.

Hon Godspower Tam Oporomo made this known during an official handover meeting on Thursday, June 27, 2024 in his office at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa.

Hon Oporomo noted that the engagements/partnership with interventionist agencies and oil companies was in line with the policy directive of Bayelsa State government as it is enshrined in the core value of the Ministry to interface with agencies, especially in the areas where the Ijaws have comparative advantage.

The commissioner explained that it has become imperative for the State Government through the Ministry to liaise with interventionist agencies and oil companies due to the present economic reality, adding that, for the citizens to come out from the present hardship, there was need for the government to engage agencies with a view to improve manpower development, and skills acquisition as well as other welfare schemes.

Hon Oporomo further hinted that the State Government through the Ministry of Ijaw National Affairs would create better opportunities for Ijaws to improve their living standards.

The Commissioner while assuring staff of the State government's willingness to provide funds for the Ministry to carry out legacy projects that would bring about value chain across the State, pointed out that the Ministry will ensure that all ongoing projects such as the construction of the Ijaw Heroes Memorial Park/Recreation Centre which is already in its second phase is completed.

The commissioner further reassured the ministry’s management team of his readiness to work assiduously to place the Ministry in its rightful place for the betterment of the Ijaw Nation.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Agala Douglas Damini had briefed the commissioner of all the achievements and pending projects of the Ministry from inception.

The Permanent Secretary assured the commissioner of staff cooperation for a smooth working relationship and wished him success in his assignment as commissioner in the ministry.

Present at the meeting were Head Human Resources Management, Mrs. Julius Laye, Head Of Ijaw Affairs, Mrs. Gbenere Ogugu, Head Planning, Research, Statistics & Documentation department, Mrs. Oloye Layefa, Head of Finance & Account department, Mrs. Simon Rebecca and HOD Internal Audit, Mrs Apiri Margaret.

Prosperity online magazine for the month of March is out!.

Follow Lydia Gilbert on Twitter for more.

NEWS FLASH:

During the plenary session held on Thursday (7th March, 2024), the Rt. Honourable (High Chief) Abraham Ingobere, Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly, presided over the proceedings and passed a 2-point resolution.

The resolution contains an appeal to Governor Douye Diri, urging him to direct the Attorney General of Bayelsa State to take immediate legal action in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, where the headquarters of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) is located.

This action seeks to halt the divestment proceedings until an agreement regarding environmental remediation and compensation is reached.

Furthermore, the members of the National Assembly from Bayelsa State have been encouraged to raise motions that will cushion the environmental remediation during the divestment process of Shell.

This is sequel to the motion raised by honourable Ebizi-Rosemary Brown, the member representing Sagbama Constituency 3, on the Planned Divestment of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria and the Need to ensure Accountability for environmental and social impact in the State.

Brown contends that previous companies that have divested in the region lack the technological and financial capability to address the inevitable environmental issues stemming from obsolete infrastructure they inherited. These issues have damaged or degraded the environment, and these companies are, therefore, unable to provide adequate redress to victims and host communities.

The Deputy Speaker and Leader of the House, Michael Ogbere, and Monday Obolo Bubou, supported the motion, stating that its importance lies in the fact that it affects the lives of the people. They stressed that SPDC should carry out environmental assessment, restoration, and remediation before divesting. The duo also called upon the government to institute the necessary legal framework before granting SPDC leave.

Dr. Daniel Charles, Ted Elemefuro, and Living Mitin also sought environmental justice and emphasized the need for a proper assessment to ensure the safety of the environment and aquatic life. They called upon the National Assembly members from Bayelsa to take appropriate action to establish a standard for companies operating or intending to leave the state.

Finally, the resolution urges the Federal Government to halt the divestment until proper environmental clean-up and remediation is concluded.

Source—#RTHAIMEDIA

A two-day Capacity Building on the use of iVerify and Fact-Checking for Bayelsa Journalists by International Press Centre (IPC) Lagos in collaboration with United Nations at Echelon Heights Hotel, Stadium Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State ended.

The training which had about 30 journalists from the Print, Electronic and Social media from Bayelsa State was
with the theme "Strengthening Of National Capacities to Prevent And Mitigate Threats" like Misinformation, Disinformation and hate speech to the Integrity of the Information system.

The objective of the training is to equip journalists with the requisite skills and knowledge to enhance the integrity of information on the electoral processes, especially the campaigns, the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and post-election democratic accountability and governance issues.

The workshop is also to build the skill of the journalists on how to use fact-checking tools for the purpose of combating the menace of false information during the electioneering period while also introducing them to the workings of the iVerify system and their likely role.

Media practitioners appluded the IPC and UN for the training with a promised to put all knowledge gained in their reportage to ensure factual and accuracy of news.

👨‍👨‍👦‍👦💻🖱️📱📚🖊️

Fact-checking & electoral information integrity - IPC embarks on training of journalists in Kogi, Bayelsa & Imo States

For immediate release: Monday October 30, 2023
About 80 journalists from the print, electronic and online media in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states have started receiving training on fact-checking to aid the credibility of electoral information as the States set to hold an off-cycle governorship election on November 11, 2023.

The fact-checking workshops kick-start the iVerify project of the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria supported by the United Nations Development Programmes (UNDP).

27 male and female journalists from Kogi state participated in the first leg of the training in Abuja, FCT, on October 27 and 28, while another 27 from Bayelsa State are currently attending the workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. 27 journalists from Imo State will be trained later in the week.

The focus of the presentations at the workshops are: The Art of questioning in Journalism & Being Detectives of Misinformation by Mr. Taiwo Obe, founder Journalism Clinic; Fact-checking of information to promote electoral integrity, by Mr. David Ajikobi, Nigerian Editor of Africa Check; Combating Electoral Information Disorder or Fake News – the INEC Experience by Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman and The Dangers of Information Disorder or Fake News to Peace Building & Conflict Resolution by Dr. Emmanuel Mamman, Director of Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution at the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution.

Addressing the Kogi and Bayelsa participants, Mr. Matthew Alao, Team Lead, Governance, Peace & Security of UNDP Nigeria said electoral disinformation and fake news in general are major threats to the ability of citizens to have the right information during electoral processes and elections, therefore also constituting threats to democracy.

IPC’s Programme Manager, Mrs. Stella Nwofia also said the iVerify project is enabling IPC to continue with its mission of promoting good journalism through best practices in ensuring factual accuracy of news. According to her, the objective of the training is to equip the journalists with the requisite skills and knowledge to enhance the integrity of information on the electoral processes in the respective states, especially the campaigns, the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and post-election democratic accountability and governance issues. The workshops are also building the skill of the journalists on how to use fact-checking tools for the purpose of combating the menace of false information during the electioneering period while also introducing them to the workings of the iVerify system and their likely role.

Media professional organisations collaborating with IPC on the iVerify project and who nominated some of the participants include the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

Highlights of the workshops can be followed on IPC’s social media channels with the HASHTAG #VerifyBeforeYouShare.

E-Signed
Olutoyin Ayoade
Communications Officer, IPC

Greetings house,

It is no new information that Mr. Perry Tukuwei our Director of Media and Publicity got missing in a boat mishap yesterday on our way to Okoroma from Ogbia for our campaigns, which was very unfortunate and was not seen up until today.

Moreover, Our dear Director’s body was found 30mins ago. This is obviously the most trying time for all us, not just our Party but the entire Bayelsa State and Nigeria.
May God give us all the fortitude to bear this loss, though unbearable but we have to be strong.

Death which is inevitable, more details will be communicated on here.

Fente Henry Lelegite

Deputy Director Media and Publicity East Senatorial District

BAYELSA APC SUSPENDS CAMPAIGNS DUE TO AN UNFORTUNATE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT OCCURED TODAY

The Bayelsa State APC Governorship Campaign Council wish to announce the suspension of our campaigns billed to hold tomorrow 26 October 2023 at Nembe-Ogbolomabiri and Nembe-Bassambiri.

This is due to an unfortunate boat mishap during our campaigns today. At the moment, a ranking member of staff of our Campaign Council is yet to be accounted for. We have informed relevant authorities and search parties are on top of the situation.

We will take a day's break to evaluate the situation before we resume our campaigns on Friday at Ogbolomabiri and Bassambiri before heading to Brass on Saturday and Sunday to conclude the Bayelsa East Campaigns.

Dr. Dennis Otiotio

Chairman, APC Bayelsa State.

GOVERNOR OF BAYELSA STATE TO COMMISSION YES DIRI CAMPAIGN SECRETARIAT.

The Executive Governor of Bayelsa State His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri is set to commission the "Yes Diri" Campaign Organization Secretariat located at Azikoro road, Ekeki Yenagoa on Thursday 26th, October 2023.

Director General Yes Diri Campaign Organization, Dr. Gentle E. Emelah who is Bayelsa State Commissioner for Education came out with this in Yenagoa at a Press Conference held by the Campaign Organization in preparation to receive the Governor of the State and his team on Thursday.

Dr. Emelah described the Political group as one that has written it's name in the history books in the political space of Bayelsa State as far as political campaigns are concerned as the group has successfully spread the good message of the Sen. Douye Diri and Sen. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo led Government across all nooks and crannies of Bayelsa using all means and mediums available.

Dr. Emelah who said the concept of the organization is uniquely designed to outlive the political season is one that will continue even after the elections, he however added, that the Yes Diri Campaign Organization is not a government sponsored political group but one that is sponsored by individuals who are like minds in the quest for the re-election of His Excellency, Sen Douye Diri and Sen Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Hon. Chief Esinkumo Ekisah, Commissioner for Special Projects Bayelsa State said the Commissioning of the Secretariat will take place by 9am after which all Yes Diri members will go into the various streets of town in a bid to galvanize more support for the People's Democratic Party PDP and her candidates Sen. Douye Diri and Sen. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo with over 2000 members of the group expected to join the train.

Highpoint of the Press Conference was interactions between members of the high table and gentlemen of the Press.

The well attended Press Conference had in attendance, the Hon. Commissioner for Education Dr. Gentle E. Emelah Commissioner Director General D.G Yes Diri, Hon. Esau Andrew Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Ekisah Sinkumo Commissioner for Special Project, Hon. Iti Irugbani Commissioner for Tourism and Hospitality and Hon. Ebitei Tonyon Commissioner for Power.

They were joined by the Caretaker Chairman Ogbia Local Government Area Chief Mizodome Ibu, Hon. Dennis, Caretaker Vice Chairman Ekeremor Local Government Area and Hon. Kate Ebisoru Caretaker Vice Chairman Yenagoa Local Government Area, Hon. Godwin Worukumo Commissioner Assembly Service Commission and Dr. Ifeanyi Otodo SSA to the Governor on Student Affairs among others.

Signed.
Yes Diri Media Team.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has excluded the name of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timipre Sylva, from the final list of candidates ahead of the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa State.
The amended list which was uploaded on the commission’s website on Tuesday was signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony.

Recalling that the commission published the final list of candidates for the 2023 Bayelsa State Governorship Election on June 9 in accordance with the provision of Section 32 of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Election, she said after the publication, INEC was served with an order of court in respect of the nomination of candidate of the APC for the poll.

“By virtue of the provision of Section 287 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Commission is bound to enforce the orders of the court on the nomination of candidates by political parties in the state,” Oriaran-Anthony said.

“The Amended list of candidates in respect of the 2023 Bayelsa State governorship election is hereby amended pursuant to the orders of court served on the commission.”

On October 10, the Federal High Court in Abuja disqualified Sylva from participating in the state governorship election.

Justice Okorowo ruled that Sylva, having been sworn in twice and served five years as governor of the state, would breach the 1999 constitution as amended if allowed to contest again.

The judge also declared that Sylva was not qualified to run in the November poll because if he wins and is sworn in, he would spend more than eight years in office as governor of the state.

But the APC in in Bayelsa State said it will appeal the Federal High Court judgment disqualifying Timipre Sylva, its candidate in the forthcoming governorship election.

The Director of Media and Publicity for the APC Bayelsa Governorship Campaign Council, Perry Tukuwei, argued that the suit by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was in breach of the Electoral Act.

Hhh

Leading House of Assembly Aspirant for Ekeremor Constituency II Visits Home town to seek blessings of his kinsmen

Barr. Jonathan Etifa, an aspirant in the forthcoming Bayelsa State House of Assembly elections on Sunday, 10 April 2022 visited his hometown in Ndoro to seek the support of his kinsmen in the forthcoming elections to represent Ekeremor Constituency II.

According to Barr. Etifa who highlighted various areas of needs and challenges of his people especially in the areas of Scholarship, Agriculture, Basic social amenities etc. promised to execute people oriented constituency projects that will ameliorate the living standard of the people of his constituency.

He further reassured the people of an all inclusive administration stating that government is a collective responsibility and will always seek the opinions of his people so as to present issue based motions that will project and promote the development of his constituents at various levels for the collective growth of the State.

It is worth of note that Mr Etifa, prior to this time had purchased over a 100 Jamb forms, Masters and Bachelors degree scholarships to over 10 students of his constituency to enable them further their education. He has given and also facilitate Covid-19 loans and Federal Government grants to his constituents.

The high point of the visit was when blessings and encomium was poured on him by the entire community.

The Bayelsa Youth Leadership Awards (BYLA) committee chaired by Hon Atti J Moses presented an award and a 3D portrait to Hon. Lucky Youbogha, Director Special Duties & Transport Govt House to commemorate his birthday anniversary.

According to Comr Atti J Moses, it is not a figment of imagination to find the SALGA born politician, Hon. Lucky Alex Youbogha worthy to be awarded as "The Most Supportive Leader" of the year 2021 considering his effusive drive in ensuring a better deal for youths in the place of leadership and assistance rendered to numerous social cultural groups and persons in various heights.

Furthermore, Hon. Atti presented a 3F portrait to Hon. Youbogha in commemoration of his birthday anniversary and prayed God to envelop him with grace beyond human comprehension.

In response, Hon. Lucky Youbogha appreciated Comrade Atti Moses and his team for finding him worthy to be recognized as a supportive leader, he admonished the group to be steadfast, passionate and ensure unity of purpose while discharging their obligations.

THE ACCIDENTAL SERVANT CALLED JULIUS BOKORU SPECIAL ADVICER MEDIA/PUBLICITY TO THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PETROLEUM, CHIEF TIMIPRE SYLVA

On a normal day we won’t join issues with a mere mouthpiece to the Minister of state for petroleum Resource, Julius Bokoru, in order not to give credibility to his self-assertive behavior also not to glorify him before his political gladiators with a response. But for the sake of millions of our dear Youths who has lost their life’s fighting for the development of the Region or those still living in abject poverty, marginalized by lack of adequate representation occasioned by political jobbers , shortsighted leadership which has brought us this low.


It's quiet unfortunate that people give opportunity to individuals like JULIUS BOKORU, who clearly is ignorant to the achievements of the great history of contributions made so far by the leadership of Bayelsa State Youth Association (BYA) towards youth developments in the state and Country at large. We doubt his origin as an Ijaw person talk more of a Bayelsan for saying this things about Bayelsa Youth Association when even CNN, Aljazeera English TV , Channels TV, AIT and many more has continually hosted past Presidents of this noble group on their platforms to discuss issues bordering on Youth restiveness and development, Environmental degradation and the abuse of our land by oil politics to mention a few goes to show the ignorance and exposure level of a media aid to the Honorable Minister of State for Petrolum Resources.
Our attention was drown to a Facebook post, writen by Julius Bokoru SA Media to Chief Timipre Sylva Minister of State for Petrolum Resources , calling Bayelsa Youth Association "COLLECTING GROUP"

This comment from him is insultive and derogative to the entire Bayelsa Youth Association members and leadership whose past and present leadership has always been young men and women of distinctive characters and professionals from various disciplines, It will interest the general public to know that Bayelsa state Youth Association (BYA) was first initiated by late erudite leader, Comr. Oronto Douglas, who saw the need for Bayelsa youths to unite and speak in one voice for the well-being of our youths, and after his dedicated service, Chief Nengi James who's the current INC 2nd Vice President also projected the Bayelsa Youth group via Bayelsa Youth Federation to foster same unity for our development, then it came to the time of Chief Engr Elvis Donkemezuo, who saw the struggle and development of youths beyond just coming together, but took further steps to get it registered as a non governmental organization.

The Bayelsa Youth Association  was represented several times at the Ijaw Boro Day in London 2010 ( sponsored by our principal who was then Governor of Bayelsa State), Ijaw Monitoring group /Professionals events in Lagos , Ijaw foundation annual meeting in Houston Texas, member of the Ijaw steering committee for Amnesty to the Niger Delta agitation, Sout South Leaders forums headed by Moses Siasia then and National Youth Council of Nigeria south south headed by Marvin Yobana all worked with the leadership of BYA . In addition BYA worked with the EU and UN action committees on disarmament in Niger delta through the then National Security Adviser (NSA ) office 2010-2011 in which I presume you were still in college finding your way through school then left alone to know this facts . As a poor student of history who lacks the patience to study facts before throwing tantrums from glass house. My advise to you is to ask questions carefully before going on public.


This same collection group did a convention/symposium titled Build the Youth, Build the Nation at the Bayelsa state Medical university auditorium on the 21 & 22nd of August 2021 that was well attended by Bayelsa Youths from all works of life and was Televised by national Television stations throughout the country without collecting from Chief Timipre Sylva or any politician in the state, and it was the best brand of Youths from bayelsa state has experienced in a long time as first of it's kind in any youth organization in the South South, this same leadership rolled down to Architect Nimi Dadiowei and my Predecessor Comrade Obele Felix who just handed it over to the new leadership under my humble self Comrade Precious Doupere and other Executive members.


If is the Minister, Chief Sylva that made such derogative statement through his media aide because we didn't take sides with him over the PIA which we see as an impoverished Act targeted to undermine the agitation of the Niger delta people .


The comrade Doupere Olakemi Precious lead Executive is a conscious one and visionary bearers whose aim is focused towards her four point agenda such as Agricultural Entrepreneurship, Sports, Entertainment and Education, with that we can rebrand the image of the Bayelsa Youths to be of good ambassadors of society.

Therefore it's so disheartening seeing that the Minister of state for Petroleum CHIEF TIMIPRE SYLVA, will allow its media aide to make mockery of his state Youth groups that he is representing and he is suppose to be answerable to us due him a public servant to the people and by extension the Youths regardless of what group we belong to as long as we are meaningful to society and morally sound .

At this juncture, WE HEREBY SAY NO TO TIMIPRE SYLVA and the president Buhari PETROLEUM INDUSTRY ACT for undermining the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes like Jasper Adaka Boro and others in Niger Delta at large.

The leadership of Bayelsa State Youth Association and the Entire
Bayelsa youths standby our position demanding the immediate resignation of the Honorable Minister of state for petroleum resources for ignoring the plight and yearning of the people against the 3% in the petroleum industry act PIA.

Yours in Struggle!


Comrade Doupere Precious
PRESIDENT, BAYELSA YOUTH ASSOCIATION WORLDWIDE

Bayelsa Youth Association (BYA) Worldwide Frowns at The Renewed Spate Of Kidnappings in the State

The leadership of the Bayelsa Youth Association (BYA) has categorically frowned at the recent upsurge in Kidnapping in the state noting that the issue of kidnapping and other social vices was thought to have been a thing of the past and wondered why young men/women would venture into the infamous trade instead of venturing into reputable trade that would make their families, state and country at large proud.

The Executives of the association who made this known to press men in Yenagoa on Tuesday, September 7, 2021 stressed the need for the unconditional release of Chief Gbalipre Turner, the father of Ogbia LGA Boss, Hon Ebinyo Marvin Turner by his abductors.

The Organising Secretary, BYA, Comrade Egba Raphael Micah who spoke on behalf of the association begged the state government and every other security outfit to earnestly go after the abductors and prosecute whoever is found wanting of such a crime and in the same vein beef up security within the state capital and other local government areas thereby making kidnapping a hard venture.

It may be recalled that Chief Gbalipre Turner was whisked away at around 10pm on Sunday by unknown gunmen who shot sporadically to scare off people and took him to an unknown destination. The states man who is a father and an astute administrator does not deserve the amount of pains he may be going through in the hands of his abductors, he said.

The President and executive members however encouraged the family of Chief Gbalipre Turner to remain undaunted during this trying period and that the prayers of the association are always with the first family of Ogbia Local Government Area.

Signed: Organising Secretary
Bayelsa Youth Association (Worldwide)
Egba Raphael Micah

The new leadership of the People's Democratic Party Youth Alliance have been charged by Governor Douye Diri to continue to promote the ethics and manifestos of the party while mobilising youths for the party.

His Excellency, Sen Douye Diri gave the charge after the inspection and commissioning of the new PDP Secretariat along Isaac Boro Expressway on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 where the inauguration of the new executives also took place.

Also speaking, the National Coordinator of the PDP Youth Alliance, Hon. Dr. Charles Omini in a meeting after the inauguration called on all members of the wing to give their full support to the newly inaugurated state coordinator and executives of the Youth Alliance.

Speaking earlier, the new Youth Alliance state coordinator, Hon. Wisdom Kieribo who is also the former majority leader of the Nigerian Youth Parliament while addressing newsmen commended the Prosperity Governor His Excellency, Distinguished Sen. Douye Diri and his amiable prosperity Deputy Governor, Sen. Lawrence Ewrudjakpor, the State PDP Chairman Hon. Solomon Agwanana, National, Zonal and State Working Committee Members/officers of the PDP, BOT, National and State Assembly Members, State Executive Council Members, top government officials, Regional and National leaders of the PDP Youth Alliance, with other members of the PDP including women, youths, students and several NGOs for gracing the inauguration and called on all youths of the state to key into the prosperity agenda that is geared towards bringing prosperity to all Bayelsans which can only be achieved when there is unity of purpose.

He further appreciated the prosperity governor for acquiring the tastefully finished secretariat which will be used for the day to day running of the party affairs in the state to obtain and sustain power in the state even while delivering on his campaign promises.

Moving Forward, Hon. Wisdom Kieribo stated that his emergence as the state coordinator of the PDP Youth Alliance is also a miraculous one after a range of controversies which rocked the strongest Pro-PDP Youth group in the state and the country at large, he further assured all members and adherents of the PDP ideology and manifestos that as a group we will see to the mass mobilisation of youths in preparation for all elections in the state from councillorship to Governorship.

Hon. Atti Joshua Moses
(Publicity Secretary PDP Youth Alliance)

Appreciation �

I would like to formally and sincerely express my gratitude to the Almighty God for His Grace and knowledge to repackage the Annual Emerging Leaders Conference which is an initiative geared towards building the intellectual capacity of our Youths and Students in line with Contemporaries issues with 2021 theme; The Role of Science communication and Technology in Youth Development and seeing it to a success.

In same vein, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Miracle Governor of Bayelsa State, Sen Douye Diri for finding me worthy to serve as his SA Students in other to bring my wealth of experience into Students and Youths Development in the State and also my mummy Her Excellency, Mrs Gloria Diri for her advice and incentive to host the event.

I want to also thank the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Hon Gentle Emelah, the SA Political, Chief Collins Cocodia, the Technical Adviser on Students, Austin Adigio Esq for their fatherly advise and encouragement.

Moving forward let me appreciate the DG of Transport and Special Duties Bayelsa State Government House, Hon. Lucky Youbugha for his Support towards the success of the program, the VC Bayelsa State Medical University, Prof. Ebitimitula Etebu, and the Guest Lecturers, Engineer Elvis Doukemezuo and Mrs Juliet Pulu for doing justice to the theme.

Proceedingly, let me acknowledge my friends and team mates, Engineer Highlife Humphrey, Mr Emmanuel Ezou Dennis, Mr Nigeria, Mr Aaron Richard Pereyei, Miss Mandy Perezi, Miss Preye David, Mr Simeon Korobobo, Mr Kenigua, Miss Mercy Akuaowe, Comr Raphael Egba, Councilman Eniaman for their corporation to ensure a successful event.

Furthermore, I want commend the Press, various Students and Youth bodies that graced the event to make it a success. It is my ernest prayers that God bless everyone that supported this event abundantly and we promise to make it bigger and better in the next edition.

His Excellency Prophet Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson; The man that Saw the future.

Comr. Atti Joshua Moses
27/4/2021

The Current Crises rocking the APC in Bayelsa State, especially where a particular sector is in control of all the benefits that accrues the Party in terms of employments, appointments,contracts, Federal Government intervention programs etc. Making others in the party to be internally displaced with no placement in the structures of the Party at Nationa and State level was Predicted by the Immediate Past Governor.

Well, straight to the reason for this article, His Excellency, Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson of the PDP representing the fabulous characters of Bayelsa West Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has earlier warned members of the PDP who Benefited greatly from the benevolence of the umbrella but defected to the All Progressive Congress at the climax of the 2019 Gubernatorial Campaigns thereby attempting to incapacitate the ruling party PDP, but some of us who believe in the Ideologies of the Party, PDP and love for our Leader the Ofurumapepe stood against all odds and defeated the APC in all ramifications.

Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson was very clear in his expression when he said that the person in charge of the APC is a businessman who trades with his party members and this is actually the order of the day for some have been sharing testimonies of how they were mentally and politically colonised.

Some top Beneficiaries of the then Restoration Government thought HE Sen. Douye would not emerge the Governor of Bayelsa State, hence they defected from the PDP to APC in order to create a cordial relationships with Federal Powers and their supposed incoming Governor but as God will always have his way and the Ways of God are not the ways of man so he brought a Miracle Governor who is obviously developing Bayelsa State and gradually turning it to the Dubai of Africa which Sen. Henry Seriake Prophesied and worked towards Years ago.

Furthermore in my opinion , I wish to use this means to call on our Prodigal Brothers to come back to the Ruling Party, PDP because the Umbrella is big enough to cover everybody come rain come sun.

I also want to use this means to commend the Prosperity Government, Ably led by His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri and members of the State Executive Council for their people oriented policies and programmes which is gradually placing the State Metropolis as one of the Best cities to live in Nigeria With the Functionalization of Bayelsa State International Airport, Glory Drive,expansion and Electrification of Tombia Round About etc.

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