₦airaland Forum

BREAKING: Ibadan explosion: Fayose releases documents, insists Makinde got N50bn from FG

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has released what he described as documentary evidence to support his claim that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, received N50 billion from the Federal Government as a special intervention fund following the January 2024 explosion in Ibadan.

Fayose made the documents public on Sunday in a statement accompanied by a memo from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.

He said the disclosure followed a challenge by Makinde to substantiate his earlier claim that the Oyo State Government received the funds.

“Two days ago, I stated on national television that Oyo State under Governor Seyi Makinde received N50bn from the Federal Government as intervention for the Ibadan explosion. Yesterday, the governor asked me to provide evidence, and here is the evidence he requested,” Fayose said.

The former governor further alleged that only N4.5 billion was disbursed to victims of the explosion, accusing Makinde of diverting the remaining funds for personal political ambitions.

“Only N4.5bn was paid to victims of the Ibadan explosion. The rest, alongside other intervention funds, was diverted to fund his presidential ambition. This, in part, explains the crisis in the PDP and his frequent attacks on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration,” he alleged.

Fayose further said he was compelled to release official documents, despite his reluctance to do so, in the interest of transparency and public accountability.

“Even though it is not in my character to go public with official government documents, I had to do this so Nigerians will know who is saying the truth and who has not been sincere with the people of Oyo State,” he said.

The former governor said that Makinde’s alleged disclosure of detail from private meeting with President Tinubu made fuller public disclosure necessary.

He challenged the governor to take legal action if he believed the allegations were false, insisting that he had sufficient proof to defend his claims.

“I challenge Governor Seyi Makinde to sue me on this. There are also proofs of other intervention funds received from Tinubu’s administration by the Oyo State Government which the governor refused to disclose to the people,” he said.

He further claimed to have documentary evidence of Oyo State’s actual Internally Generated Revenue, contrary to figures publicly stated by Makinde, noting that he would release the details at a later time.


“There are documentary evidences on the actual Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Oyo State, as against Governor Makinde’s claim, but we will keep our gunpowder dry for now.

“My name is still Ayo Fayose. I don’t say what I can’t prove,” he said.

Military presence in Igbomotoru necessary - southern ijaw coalition groups

Critical stakeholders, youths and ex-agitators under the umbrella of southern ijaw coalition groups said that heavy military presence in Igbomotoru town, is a must if the federal government is serious about winning the war against oil theft and bunkering.

In a strongly worded statement released from its Awere-Benikrukru base in Southern-Ijaw on Friday, the group posited the need for the federal government not to withdraw the security from Igbomotoru but rather strengthen what is already there to forestall future attacks against oil and gas facilities.

According to the group Spokesman, Chief Nelson Ebi, the presence of the military in Igbomotoru Community is a necessary steps towards protecting national assets in key areas of the Niger Delta, and should not be misinterpreted or viewed as act of intimidation or calculated move to seize political power.

He said in every criminal enterprise, there are flashpoints and Igbomotoru happened to be one in the area of illegal bunkering.

According to him statement Nigeria oil production output is skyrocketing since the arrival of the military in Igbomotoru because their presence destabilise the operation of oil thieves.

The statement said Igbomotoru is the hub for bunkering and is where big players plan and coordinate attacks on pipeline for bunkering purposes.

He said the presence of the military in Igbomotoru is what they call checkmate in chess, and that way they will not be able to do their bunkering activities.

Also don't forget that the soldiers are also boosting security in the community, don't forget that that is where a CDC chairman was killed this year by notorious pipeline vandals.

We also thank Tompolo and Tantita Security Services and joshua MacIver for working with the security personnel to safeguard pipeline in bayelsa state.

The number of crude oil stolen from Igbomotoru, if they sell it, the money is big enough to build schools, hospital and bridges,that's what only one ex-militant from that place was robbing the country of until the soldiers came.

Leadership training: Isoko Ex-agitators applaud Otuaro over commitment to build Niger Delta ex-militants

The leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators has commended Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), for his commitment to growing and building the capacity of Niger Delta ex-freedom fighters in education and other sectors.

This is coming after ex-agitators under the third phase Presidential Amnesty Programme underwent a leadership training tagged 'Leadership, alternative dispute resolution and mediation training for Presidential Amnesty Programme stakeholders.'

The training was organized by the Presidential Amnesty Programme in collaboration with the Alumni Association of National Defence College Nigeria at the Army War College, Asokoro, Abuja, on December 18-19, 2025.

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja after the issuance of certificate to participants on Friday, the chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme), the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, said under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the PAP has regained its position and pride and now ranks among key performing federal institutions in the country.

He said the programme is more focused and result-driven, and has exceeded the expectations of Niger Delta stakeholders within the period that Otuaro took over as sole administrator.

Lucky said Dr. Otuaro has reshaped and taken the PAP to its original self and purpose for its establishment, saying that he is the best thing that has happened to the programme and its beneficiaries."

He said, "We are thanking him in the area of education because he is building the capacity of ex-agitators and preparing them ahead of rainy days."

"It was because there were no opportunities that made us to take up arms and go into agitation, and with what Otuaro is doing, he is preparing us to be meaningful to the society, especially our families, so that we can mould our children into better and productive citizens who will not be trouble to the country."

"With this, our children will honour us and learn from the new things we're doing through the help of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, because with this, we are preparing the future ahead."

"Within this short period that Dr. Otuaro took over as PAP administrator, one year and nine months, he has secured the future of over 7,000 Niger Deltans through scholarships both home and abroad."

"These were people who ordinarily wouldn't have been able to go to school. This year alone, over 100 students are studying abroad under the scholarship of the Presidential Amnesty Programme."

"Dr. Otuaro doesn't discriminate, all these achievements I'm talking about cut through all the ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta, no group is excluded."

"All these things he is doing will strengthen and bring more support to the Bola Tinubu-led APC government, and in 2027, we know that the ex-agitators and other Niger Deltans will come back to say 'thank you' to Mr. President."

"Also, I want to use this medium to thank Dr. Otuaro on behalf of all Isoko Ex-agitators, because this training has really impacted me positively, and I will go back to give the same training to those our members who didn't participate in the leadership training, so that they can also benefit."

"Otuaro has assured the people of the Niger Delta that there would be more empowerment and training next year, and we are looking forward to it, so that our people can be able to stand anywhere in the world to represent Nigeria," he added.

Julius Omoyibo, Joseph Okor, others consumed by envy, illiteracy ~ says Lucky Jonah

The Chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme), the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, has reacted to an online publication made by the so-called leaders of an unknown and insignificant group known as Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide who claimed he is parading himself as chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators.

The statement signed by some irrelevant persons who identified themselves as Julius Omoyibo, Joseph Okor, George Oghenekevwe, Henry Jaja, Randy Ogaga, Okpako Ejiro and Henry Esekpe, said ''Lucky Jonah is not a member or representative of Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide in any capacity whatsoever, and his claims to leadership are false, misleading, unauthorized and fraudulent.''

However, reacting to the annoying publication, the Chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme), the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, described Julius Omoyibo, Joseph Okor and the others as illiterates who never had any formal education.

He said their actions are driven by envy and the highest form of illiteracy which is contagious as a plague and hence, they are disgracing themselves and dancing naked without any drum beat.

He said the only thing that this group which he described as association of jealous people knew how to do was to burst pipeline and steal crude oil, and when the Presidential Amnesty was introduced to stop those illicit acts, people like Julius Omoyibo became useless to the point that they didn't know how to do anything else except to envy anybody who God is raising.

Lucky Jonah, fondly called Oil Money, said, ordinarily, he ought not to have reacted, as he is busy in Abuja attending a leadership training organized by Dr. Dennis Otuaro, PAP Administrator, for Niger Delta Ex-agitators, Third Phase beneficiaries, but that he needed to set the records straight.

He said after the training, and after concluding his engagements with some prominent national personalities in the FCT concerning the welfare of Isoko Ex-agitators, he will return to Delta State so that Julius Omoyibo and Joseph Okor can explain to him the relationship between Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme) and Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide.

He said after that has been done, the duo will also tell the whole world if he (Lucky Jonah) has ever written to anybody or visited anybody or at any time told anybody that he is a member of their disgraced group called Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide.

Lucky Jonah said if Julius Omoyibo and Joseph Okor had stayed in the classroom during primary school (if ever they attended any) and didn't jump out through the window, they would have been educated enough to know that Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme) and Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide are two different groups with different ideologies, and they would not be looking for trouble as they are doing now.

He said, "The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives me the right to belong to any group. They are not members of my group which is the Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme), so why are they looking for trouble?"

"I want to remind them that during the days of militancy, it was not Julius Omoyibo or Joseph Okor that bought the guns I used in the Niger Delta agitation, and when I decided to surrender, I surrendered my arms to the federal government and not to Julius Omoyibo or Joseph Okor, and so I don't need their validation to do anything I want."

"I am from Enhwe Community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, and nobody owns Isoko more than myself. I have the right to form a group and push for the welfare of the members."

"The former freedom fighters registered under Isoko Ex-agitators are more than 100, and they were all demobilized or disarmed by the federal government during the disarmament programme, and they are all captured in the President Amnesty Programme (PAP) data, and it is my duty to push for their well-being."

"The level of jealousy I'm seeing from these folks is becoming something else. I was the pioneer National Secretary of Presidential Amnesty Programme (Third Phase) and my track records are there."

"Go to Bayelsa and other states and see how things are done. Across the Niger Delta, we have Phases 1, 2 and 3, and everybody is doing their own thing for their members. Nationwide, we have Chief Aaron Oputu as PAP phase 1 chairman, then Ibena Rufus Salvation as PAP phase 2 chairman, and Elaye Slaboh who is chairman of PAP phase 3."

"Look at them, envious people, they are publishing a disclaimer and copying NCDMB, NDDC, Tantita Security Services and the security agencies.... Over what? I must ask..."

"When we created this group many years ago, they started laughing at us, but today, with sacrifice, dedication and commitment to good cause, God has started giving us a name and a voice, and boooom, Julius Omoyibo and Joseph Okor have come with their evil hearts trying to pull us down."

"Do they know the sacrifices we have made? Apart from their selfish interests, what have they done for any other ex-agitator? Have they ever done anything to support Dr. Dennis Otuaro? Apart from witch-hunting people, what good thing have they done? Apart from betraying people, what else can be written of them? Apart from feeling threatened by the rising of others, what else have they done? It was because of them that we were unable to hold our maiden Town Hall meeting to stem the tide of pipeline vandalism in Isoko and support Tantita Security, because they went everywhere spoiling our name."

"When you look at their group, the so-called Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide, it is not an all-Isoko group. Check their names..., they are mostly Urhobo people, and not that I am against Urhobo people, but how can they form an Isoko/Urhobo association and then come to envy us with our small Isoko association?"

"If you know Julius Omoyibo and Joseph Okor so well, you'll know that they are greedy, and that is why they decided to form a big association to cover Isoko and Urhobo together, so that they can use it to hustle every corner in Delta State, but as they didn't cash out with it, they have decided to look at us with envy."

"Anybody envying me is fighting against God, because I am a covenant child of God. When I was spending millions of Naira on news publication, they were laughing at me. When I sold my property and borrowed money to protect the interest of all Isoko Ex-agitators and to make a good image of them at the Presidential Amnesty office in Abuja, they were laughing at me."

"When I spent millions on national television to clean the mess they made when they deceived some Isoko women to protest against Dr. Otuaro on August 1st, 2025, nobody envied me then, now, they are hating on me because they have seen that my leadership is focused, and we're heading somewhere."

"I want to use this opportunity to call on the leaders of Isoko and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to call Julius Omoyibo, Joseph Okor, George Oghenekevwe, Henry Jaja, Randy Ogaga, Okpako Ejiro and Henry Esekpe to order, so that they don't destabilize the peace we're enjoying in the state."

"The name of our group is Isoko Ex-agitators (Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme) and the name of their group is Niger Delta Ex-agitators Isoko Nation Wide... These are two different groups."

"If they want to join our own association, let them go to our office in Oleh and pick the membership form, after that, we'll run a check on the PAP database and if their names are found, then they can be admitted as members of our most reputable group known as Isoko Ex-agitators, but until then, let them mind their business and leave us alone," he added.

MOSIEND commends Spencer Okpoye over outstanding leadership role in DESOPADEC


The leadership of the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), Western Zone, has commended Honourable Spencer Okpoye, a commissioner in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, for his commitment to the goals of DESOPADEC.

MOSIEND says Mr. Spencer Okpoye, who is the commissioner representing Ijaw ethnic nationality in DESOPADEC, has been a blessing and a pillar of strong support to young people across the state.

In a statement issued to newsmen on Monday, December 1st, 2025, MOSIEND through its Western Zonal Chairman, Comrade Abulu Graham, says, no doubt, DESOPADEC was established to address the developmental needs of oil-producing communities in the state - through the provisions of infrastructure, economic empowerment and social amenities to these communities, but that, since Spencer Okpoye became a commissioner in the commission, ethnic nationality groups from affected communities have been given a sense of belonging like never before; making DESOPADEC more accessible and making the commission more about the people.

The statement issued to newsmen in Asaba, the Delta State capital, by Amb. Jesse Ese, the Publicity Secretary of MOSIEND, Western Zone, describes Honourable Spencer Okpoye as a leader and a mentor concerned about the growth of young people in the state, and this is evident in his dealings with ethnic nationality groups under his office.

It says, "We want to thank Honourable Spencer Okpoye for his outstanding leadership both in DESOPADEC and outside because he is interested in everything that has to do with the welfare of his people."

"He treats every ethnic nationality in his office equally, and he's giving fair and equal representation to every ethnic group without discrimination."

"That's what good and exemplary leadership is all about, and as the year 2025 begins to wind down, we want to use this avenue to wish him well and pray God Almighty to bless him in every area of life."

"We commend him for his sincerity in dealing with all and sundry, and we wish him a happy yuletide this year," the statement adds.

Bayelsa APC chieftain eulogizes Pastor Reuben Wilson on 55th birthday anniversary


Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State and human rights activist, Chief Francis Wainwei, has joined eminent personalities across the world to celebrate Pastor Reuben Wilson on the occasion of his 55th birthday anniversary.

In a statement issued to journalists in Yenagoa, Francis, who doubles as Chief of Staff to the celebrant, said they are not celebrating Pastor Reuben just for the fun of it, but because over the years, he has dedicated himself to the service of humanity and has impacted the lives of thousands of people cutting across Nigeria and beyond.

Francis, a lawyer and entertainment entrepreneur, described Pastor Reuben Wilson as a very important figure in the APC who has used his position to help people and make life more comfortable and meaningful to those he encounters.

He recalled how the celebrant sacrificed his personal money to pay stipends to thousands of APC members when the outcome of the 2019 Governorship election in Bayelsa State didn't favour the party; saying that these and more are the reasons they are celebrating him today.

According to him, "My leader and boss, Chief Pastor Reuben Wilson who is the founder of Pastor Reuben Initiative for Good Leadership and Accountability, and member of the Governing Council, University of Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, is a man of many parts, and I am happy because each of those parts is an episode of love towards mankind."

"To us, this isn't just a birthday, but an avenue for us to gather to reflect on the good legacies he has been laying over these years."

"From giving out scholarships to students, to paying of school fees, creating jobs for people to empowering them, etc - which one are we going to talk about and which one are we going to leave out?"

"The Pastor Reuben Initiative for Good Leadership and Accountability which is spreading like wildfire across the country, he didn't create it for himself. He created it to use it as a platform to promote both old and young people politically, and we are happy with the number of those he has groomed."

"Even in the oil and gas sector, he's doing a lot, so, to simply put it, Pastor Reuben Wilson can be defined as a man sent to planet earth to put beautiful smiles on the faces of everyone who encounters him."

"Time will fail me if I should speak about him, but let's not forget that today is his birthday, and just as he would always do for us, I stand in the gap for myself and everyone else who has felt the goodness of Pastor Reuben Wilson, and I pray God Almighty to bless him beyond measure."

"The People's General, we are touched by your generosity and your unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of others, which makes you an exceptional leader"

"You are a born leader and your people-centred approach and infectious leadership style continue to inspire many."

"You remain a beacon of hope to millions, and we pray God that this new age brings you fulfilment, happiness and more strength and good health to create lasting impact on mankind," he added.

PANDEF condemns attempts to blow up Emede-Uzere line, calls for dialogue


The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has condemned moves by unknown militants to blow up pipelines in Isoko Kingdom in Delta State over what could be premeditated attempts by aggrieved persons to seek the attention of Tantita Security Services for not being carried along.

On Friday night, there was a botched attempt to blow up the Emede-Uzere line under OML 30 operated by Heritage Energy Operational Services LTD under SPDC, which falls under the jurisdiction of Tantita Security - a development that is sparking reactions in the once peaceful Emede Community in Isoko South Council Area of Delta State.

Footage from the scene showed a line already dug - with dynamite wires on the ground, and it is believed that the assailants fled over fear of being caught when they (possibly) heard footsteps approaching.

Reacting to the incident, the Delta State Youth Leader of PANDEF, Julius Omoyibo, condemned the move in its entirety; saying that the era of armed agitation is over.

He said people should embrace dialogue in airing their grievances, rather than resorting to violence which may have adverse negative effects on innocent citizens.

Julius said PANDEF frowns at acts of hostility against communities and federal infrastructure cited anywhere in the Niger Delta; saying that in order to quickly nip this ugly development in the bud, he will use his office as state youth leader to facilitate a town hall meeting where every stakeholder in Isoko Kingdom can air their grievances - to come up with a recommendation to the appropriate authorities.

He called on Isoko ex-agitators to work with Tantita Security to secure critical national assets in their domain and not resort to bombing of pipelines.

He said Tantita is trying, and that while everybody cannot be carried along, meaningful number of ex-agitators have been carried along, saying that there are proper channels to resolve issues other than violence.

Delta South APC Youth Summit: Isoko Ex-agitators hail Okpobor's unwavering commitment to youth empowerment


The leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators has commended Honourable Oghenekome Okpobor, the Director of Finance, DESOPADEC, for his immeasurable support and commitment to the growth of youths of Delta South Senatorial District.

The Isoko Ex-agitators, in a statement signed by the chairman, the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, said Okpobor is always concerned about anything that has to do with uniting, empowering and building the capacity of the youths - something that's vital to the future of the state.

Lucky Jonah recalled how the lives of over 1,000 youths from the Senatorial District were transformed when they were given a boost in their careers at the Delta South APC Youth Summit which held on Friday, October 31, 2025 at the IDU Secretariat in Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South Council Area.

He said this wouldn't have been possible without Honourable Oghenekome Okpobor; stressing that the Isoko Ex-agitators are happy to have someone like him who is always creating avenues to help the youths and other aspiring young leaders.

He noted that in the coming weeks, they will formally meet with him to officially honour him for the good legacies he is creating across the senatorial district, and, in deed, the entire Delta State.

Lucky Jonah also commended Comrade Ede Hyacinth Ewariezi, Delta South Youth leader and chairman of the planning committee, for the success of the Delta South APC Youth Summit.

He said they are happy with the way and manner he coordinated the event that everyone was carried along irrespective of tribe, and there was no favouritism in the empowerments given to the youths.

He said, "The youths of Delta South who were all empowered with chairs, tables, umbrellas, POS and cash gifts to start their businesses are our brothers, and we are happy that we have some people in power who are concerned about the growth and development of the youths."

Lucky also commended the leadership of the APC Delta South Youth Wing for recognizing Isoko Ex-agitators and making them a part and parcel of the programme; saying that they look forward to a more formidable synergy between them that will bring the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu closer to the grassroots.

He also prayed God to grant them more grace and resources to enable them do more for the youths of Delta South.

Isoko Ex-agitators throw weight behind Tompolo over Bayelsa visit


As the Niger Delta region continues to boil over the visit of ex-freedom fighter, Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, to Bayelsa State and the meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan, the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators has lambasted those trying to make a scene from it.

Some groups from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have urged the federal government to pay attention to the secret meeting between Dr. Jonathan and Tompolo - saying something suspicious is going on, but in a statement on Thursday, the Chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators, the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, urged President Bola Tinubu to disregard the publication as baseless and malicious.

Lucky Jonah said, far from what the mischief makers behind the said publication are driving at, Tompolo is a man committed to the peace and security of the Niger Delta region, and at several times, he has been meeting with key stakeholders to foster peace and development whenever the need arises.

He said claims by the coalition of youths that there's a political undertone to Tompolo's visit is borne out of hate and jealousy - driven by the usual pull-him-down syndrome.

Lucky Jonah, who doubles as pioneer secretary of Third Phase, Presidential Amnesty Programme, explained that Tompolo has always pledged his loyalty and support to the Tinubu Government and has come under serious criticism for calling on stakeholders to reelect Tinubu in 2027 and those who are not happy with him have seized the avenue of his visit to Bayelsa State on October 17, 2025 to sow seeds of discords with a view to destroying the relationship between Tompolo and the federal government.

He said Tompolo has made huge positive impacts across the Niger Delta region and they, as Isoko Ex-agitators, are happy with what he is doing because nobody else in the entire Ijaw nation would have carried the people along if they were in Tompolo's position.

Lucky Jonah urged Tompolo not to be discouraged by the activities of a few people who are trying to provoke him so that he will abandon his good legacies in the Niger Delta region.

He said he has the full support of the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators, urging him to continue with what he's doing across the region.

Finally, Lucky Jonah urged President Bola Tinubu to disregard the said publication, saying that Tompolo is dependable and reliable.

Human Infrastructure: Isoko Ex-agitators hail Ashakah Orobosa over commitment to youth development


The leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators has commended the head of Tantita Security in Isoko, Mr. Ashakah Orobosa, for his unwavering commitment and support to the development of the youths of Isoko nation over the years.

The ex-agitators, in a statement signed by their chairman, the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, and issued to newsmen on Wednesday, say Ashakah has also influenced a lot of developmental projects across Isoko North and South council areas - with the recent one being the Isoko Youth House built in Ozoro with support from Tantita Security Services.

General Lucky said Ashakah is heading in the right direction and the Isoko ex-agitators are happy with what he's doing for his people.

Lucky Jonah, who was the pioneer secretary of third phase leaders, Presidential Amnesty Programme, stated that with what Ashakah is doing, he will go far in life and through him, a lot of goodwill will come to Isoko nation.

According to him, "Many of our leaders in Isoko nation who have money only think about themselves and their immediate family, but we are happy with Ashakah Orobosa because he has made friends with eminent personalities outside Isoko nation, and rather than using it to benefit himself alone, he is using his connections to empower Isoko youths."

"In the past few years, a lot of Isoko youths who were unemployed are now able to feed their families because of Ashakah, and these are the kind of people we need."

"The Isoko Youth House in Ozoro, that is a landmark project and it wouldn't have been possible without Ashakah."

"And we want to thank the leadership of Tantita Security for the enormous support they've given to Ashakah Orobosa, our brother and friend, and we want them to know that because of Ashakah, many Isoko youths now have hope of a better tomorrow."

"As Tantita Security Services' anchor man, Ashakah Orobosa ensured that his people are actively involved and he paved the way for them to be engaged meaningfully both in Tantita and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) of which many of them have been trained by the PAP."

"Funny enough, Ashakah is silent about these achievements and he is humble to the core - unlike most people."

"Ashakah has shown capacity and diligence and we are very proud of him, and we want to assure him that the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators is fully with him."

"And we want to commend Tompolo, Kestin Pondi, and everyone else at Tantita Security for bringing out the best in our brother and friend Ashakah Orobosa because if not for them, Isoko nation wouldn't have known that they had such an asset like Ashakah somewhere."

"They have brought out the best in Ashakah, and we want them to know that Ashakah is projecting them well in every sense, and this has further deepened the relationship between the Ijaw people and the Isoko people, and we are happy."

"To Ashakah, we pray God Almighty to elevate him and give him strength and grace to continue to do more," he added.

Former Freedom Fighter Advocates For Reforms In Oil And Gas Industry

They want decentralisation of oil and gas surveillance contracts

MOSIEND enjoins all members to turn up as its Vice President lays father to rest

The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has enjoined all its members to stand behind the Vice President of the group, Chief Thompson Fuoye, to give his late father, Chief Ekpegberigbaha Robert Fuoye (aka Old Soldier), a befitting burial.

This was contained in a statement issued to newsmen by the Spokesman of MOSIEND, Comrade Charles Omusuku, on Tuesday.

Omusuku described the deceased as a role model whose impact cuts across the Ijaw nation and Nigeria, saying that he was a father to many.

He also said he was a man who was very committed to the unity and growth of Tuomo Community.

According to him, despite being exposed to many cultures and people of other ethnic nationalities, the late Chief Ekpegberigbaha was one man who never forgot his home, but did everything he could to support his people at all times.

The MOSIEND spokesman said that as eminent personalities will gather to lay him to rest on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in his hometown, Tuomo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, the presence of every member of MOSIEND is needed.

Omusuku said this is also because of the enormous support the son of the departed, Chief Thompson Fuoye, has given to MOSIEND and many other Ijaw youths over the years.

According to him, one way to reward Thompson for his sacrifices to the Ijaw nation all these years is to stand behind him to give colour to the burial ceremony of his father.

Chief Ekpegberigbaha who died at 81 years is survived by children, grandchildren and other relatives without number.

MOSIEND enjoins all members to turn up as its Vice President lays father to rest

The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has enjoined all its members to stand behind the Vice President of the group, Chief Thompson Fuoye, to give his late father, Chief Ekpegberigbaha Robert Fuoye (aka Old Soldier), a befitting burial.

This was contained in a statement issued to newsmen by the Spokesman of MOSIEND, Comrade Charles Omusuku, on Tuesday.

Omusuku described the deceased as a role model whose impact cuts across the Ijaw nation and Nigeria, saying that he was a father to many.

He also said he was a man who was very committed to the unity and growth of Tuomo Community.

According to him, despite being exposed to many cultures and people of other ethnic nationalities, the late Chief Ekpegberigbaha was one man who never forgot his home, but did everything he could to support his people at all times.

The MOSIEND spokesman said that as eminent personalities will gather to lay him to rest on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in his hometown, Tuomo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, the presence of every member of MOSIEND is needed.

Omusuku said this is also because of the enormous support the son of the departed, Chief Thompson Fuoye, has given to MOSIEND and many other Ijaw youths over the years.

According to him, one way to reward Thompson for his sacrifices to the Ijaw nation all these years is to stand behind him to give colour to the burial ceremony of his father.

Chief Ekpegberigbaha who died at 81 years is survived by children, grandchildren and other relatives without number.

NDRBDA: Isoko Ex-agitators pledge support for Amgbare; commend Tinubu over appointment


The leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators has called on community leaders and other stakeholders to give more support to Honourable Ebitimi Amgbare, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority (NDRBDA).

This call was made on Wednesday during a familiarisation visit/courtesy call on Mr. Amgbare at the NDRBDA headquarters in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

In his remarks, the chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators, the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, commended Mr. Amgbare for his vision for the NDRBDA which, he said, are holistic and in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Lucky commended the president for appointing a competent man like Ebitimi Amgbare who has a good reputation for quality service delivery.

He said Mr. Amgbare remains committed to the aims and objectives of NDRBDA which are centred on improving the livelihood of people in the Niger Delta region by providing essential services and promoting economic growth.

He hinted that this can only be achieved through effective management and development of the region's water resources which the NDRBDA boss is committed to.

He said Amgbare demonstrated his commitment to the growth of the region when he went round to get the input of stakeholders - to capture their peculiar needs in the NDRBDA's budget.

Lucky said it takes only a humble and purpose-driven personality to demonstrate what Mr. Ebitimi Amgbare did, and hence, the need for every stakeholder, especially the Isoko Ex-agitators, to work with him.

Lucky said in Delta State, he will ensure he and his people create an enabling environment for the NDRBDA to work effectively and efficiently, so that the people can feel the presence of the federal government.

In his response, Mr. Ebitimi Amgbare pledged to work with the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators; saying that they will be carried along in all their programmes.

He commended Lucky Jonah for the visit; saying his office is open for more life-changing deliberations.

"Attacks against PINL a show of ignorance, cowardice, and joke taken too far" ~ says MOSIEND


The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) says it will go tough on anyone whose trade is to slander the reputation of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse, and his company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).

MOSIEND says the unwarranted attacks against the Olu of Warri and Pipeline Infrastructure are getting out of hand and would no longer condone it; especially as they are always perpetrated by some Niger Deltans who should be in jail answering for the crimes they committed against humanity in the region if not for the introduction of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The group made these assertions following the recent unprovoked and baseless campaign of calumny against PINL by some deviants who, after writing a petition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against the Olu of Warri, also went on air telling Pipeline Infrastructure to vacate Ijaw territories over alleged breach of contractual agreement.

In a statement on Thursday morning, the Vice President of MOSIEND, High Chief Thompson Fuoye Robert, sent a stern warning to those behind the publication to desist forthwith; saying that the Olu of Warri and the owners of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited are full-blooded Niger Deltans and have the constitutional right to render their services anywhere in the region.

Thompson, who was very bitter over the said publication, explained that he is very ashamed of the actions of some of his Ijaw brothers because what they do over the years is to collect money and go about slandering people up and down.

He said this is not the first time they are coming up with such publications against the Olu of Warri and Pipeline Infrastructure; saying that MOSIEND will no longer tolerate it.

The MOSIEND Vice President said that despite the unending unprovoked attacks against Pipeline Infrastructure, the company has remained focused; rendering top-notch surveillance services - surpassing the expectation of Niger Deltans and their employer, the NNPCL

He said it would have made a lot of sense if those behind the attacks understood better the scope of pipeline surveillance, but because they have no clue, they speak and act from their abundance of ignorance, thereby disgracing Ijaw nation.

He said, "Pipeline surveillance is a community-based job which means the companies have direct dealings with the communities on their right of way."

"Of what concern is it to an ex-agitator who is not from the community, or a youth president or community chairman - that they now give ultimatum to the company to leave the territory?"

"It is the duty of the communities affected to raise alarm of any sort against the company if they are found wanting, or found breaching the agreement or mandate given to them by their client which in this case is NNPCL."

"Now, these ex-agitators, how will they feel if other Niger Delta youths who are not benefiting from the Presidential Amnesty Program (PAP) writes to Mr. President to scrap the Amnesty Program?"

"PINL has done more work than any other pipeline surveillance company in the Niger Delta, and the records are there for anyone to see."

"Is it in the aspect of securing pipelines effectively, prompt payment of salaries, stakeholders engagement, or what? Which one are you going to mention, or which one are you going to leave out? PINL is the only company that engages with all stakeholders in their areas of operation every month - and I mean it, every single month, and the views of communities and their stakeholders are taken into consideration and worked with."

"They should make their findings rather than engaging in fake criticism. The stakeholders' reach of PINL will shock them if they do due diligence. No other pipeline surveillance company has been able to beat their record."

"PINL is doing well and has achieved so much, and while they are silent about their achievements, that doesn't give anybody the right to wake up and slander the company up and down - nobody owns the Niger Delta, no company owns the region more than the other. It is our Niger Delta, and everyone can do their businesses and services without restrictions."

"The reason I am saying this is because these attacks are becoming too much from our people, and they should stop - that company is owned by Niger Deltans, and it's about time it sank deep into everyone's brain that you cannot just wake up use the cover of Ijaw nation to misbehave and slander people all the time."

"Whoever is sponsoring them should stop forthwith because even Mr. President will see for himself that this is just a paid advert by miscreants and their merchants. Some of us have built relationships across board over the years, and we will not allow senseless illiterates to give Ijaw people a bad name."

"We will not allow anyone to disgrace Ijaw nation because it will make every right-thinking person in the society look down at us."

"Like I said earlier, their employer, the NNPC Limited is pleased with their operations, and so these misguided elements should desist from making a fool of themselves in the name of pulling down somebody's effort."

"Pipeline security is not the only business or service being done in the society, so those who open their mouths wide to talk down on the achievements of other people should also form their own companies, go outside and look for jobs, then bring the jobs to Niger Delta to empower the youths; rather than causing nuisance all the time."

"This is too much, and we will not take it," he added.

Is the NDDC 25th anniversary celebration a sham?


The Niger Delta region is abuzz with discontent and outrage over the manner in which the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) managed its 25th anniversary celebrations, particularly the women and youth session in Imo State.

Stakeholders who attended the event have expressed deep disappointment and frustration with the poor organization, coordination and welfare arrangements made for them.

Guests were subjected to substandard catering and accommodation arrangements, with some being confined to small rooms with inadequate meals.

In some hotels, guests were asked to pay for drinking water separately that the NDDC meal arrangements did not cover drinking water; leaving many to murmur and strive with hotel managements.

The organizers seemed more concerned with their own interests than the welfare of the stakeholders; abandoning them in a state with security concerns to flee to Port Harcourt.

The poor execution of the event raises questions about the management of funds allocated for the anniversary celebration.

Some of the stakeholders who spoke under the condition of anonymity demanded the NDDC Board to investigate the organizers of the event and query those responsible for the poor execution.

They want the NDDC to make public the amount allocated for the anniversary celebration and provide a detailed breakdown of expenditures.

They said the Board should take steps to ensure that stakeholders are treated with dignity and respect in future events.

The NDDC 25th anniversary celebrations were intended to be a celebration of achievements and milestones, but instead, it has become a symbol of poor management, lack of transparency and disregard for stakeholders' welfare.

The stakeholders urge the NDDC management to take immediate action to address these concerns and restore trust.

PAP: Isoko women make u-turn, pass vote of confidence in Otuaro

Barely a week after a group of women under the auspices of Isoko Women Against Bad Governance declared a protest against Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, over alleged neglect and marginalisation, they have come out to throw their weight behind the PAP boss; saying that they will not take part in the proposed August 1st protest.

The women under the auspices of Coalition of All Isoko Women say the allegations of exclusion and marginalisation brought against Mr. Dennis Otuaro, Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, by a group known as Isoko Women Against Bad Governance are untrue, and pledged their support for Otuaro.

In an interview with newsmen after the press conference held in Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, the Chairperson of the Coalition of All Isoko Women, Mrs. Awila Mercy, and Mrs. Onukurefe Ufuoma, a member of the group, said they are not in support of any protest against the Amnesty boss, and vowed to resist any attempt to distract him.

They assured Otuaro of their unwavering support, but also urged the PAP Coordinator to remember to empower them when the time comes.

Earlier in his address, the chairman of Isoko Ex-agitators, the self-styled General Lucky Jonah, said Otuaro means well for the Niger Delta, and the Isoko people are not left out.

He extolled Dr. Otuaro for the various scholarship, vocational training, and empowerment programmes which have impacted many youths of the region; and urged the women to cancel the planned protest and throw their weight behind the Amnesty boss.

Lucky said, "About a week ago, specifically on Monday the 7th of July, a friend of mine drew my attention to a news publication credited to one Mrs. Oghenekomeno Umukoro, chairperson of the Isoko Women Against Bad Governance, who went on rampage dragging the name of the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, in the mud over unfounded allegations of marginalisation and exclusion."

"Myself, like every other Isoko ex-agitator, was shocked. I was surprised because as an ex-agitator who is part and parcel of PAP, and as someone who hails from Isoko ethnic nationality, I know the number of Isoko people benefiting from the programme, and we felt the August 1 protest is a plot by some unseen faces pushing these women from behind to discredit Dr. Dennis Otuaro and also turn the leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme against the Isoko people who are benefiting from the system."

"So, we felt it is very necessary to call the woman leaders of the various Isoko communities in Isoko North and South Council areas to avail themselves, so that we can set the records straight before every other stakeholder invited here - so that we can be informed and wise enough not to allow ourselves to be used by some political actors to destabilize the peace of the Niger Delta."

"First of all, we want to debunk the notion created by Isoko Women Against Bad Governance that Dr. Dennis Otuaro hates Isoko people - that is very untrue. Whenever there are issues to be addressed, we go to Abuja to meet him, and Otuaro has never shut his doors against us. He's somebody who doesn't discriminate."

"Since he came onboard, the PAP has carried out so many programmes including scholarships, vocational trainings and empowerment, and in all of this, Isoko people have been part and parcel of it."

"I don't want to waste your time by mentioning name after name, but the popular one among over 100 of them that have benefited from the Dr. Dennis Otuaro-led administration is Humphrey Ebia from Okpolo/Enhwe. Who doesn't know him? In fact, two of his brothers are currently in school under the sponsorship of the PAP."

"So, it is obvious that Mrs. Oghenekomeno Umukoro is being sponsored to mislead Isoko women into protesting against an innocent man who has never discriminated against the people of Isoko ethnic nationality."

"Dr. Dennis Otuaro has been meeting with stakeholders in communities across the Niger Delta, and even recently, he has held several meetings with ethnic nationalities in Delta State, and he is planning to kickoff another programme to build the capacity of youths and women and the Isoko women will not be left out."

"The Ijaw people are our neighbours and they have always demonstrated that love towards us, and we find it offensive that anyone could wake up to publish such strong allegations against Dr. Dennis Otuaro without consulting us, the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators, and so we condemn that publication in its entirety."

"And we want to use this medium to pass a vote of confidence in the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and we also affirm our unwavering support to him and his team."

"We also commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for looking inwardly to appoint a man with a heart of gold, a competent hand, a true lover of the Niger Delta such as Dr. Dennis Otuaro to oversee the Amnesty Programme, and want to let him know that Otuaro is the best PAP Coordinator we have had so far since the programme was established."

"We also want to distance ourselves from Mrs. Oghenekomeno Umukoro. We are not in support of any protest and we will not allow ourselves to be used by selfish politicians, and we urge every Isoko woman to go about their normal businesses, and disregard the said publication."

"We want to say that we stand with Dr. Dennis Otuaro and president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that they have our unflinching support now and always," he said.

Lucky also used the avenue to commend Tantita Security Services for the good work they are doing in the Niger Delta; saying that the synergy between them and Dr. Dennis Otuaro has brought about peace, stability and economic growth in the region.

MOSIEND eulogizes late Bayelsa Chief Magistrate Bridget who passed on at 68


Spokesman of the Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), Comrade Charles Omusuku, has joined other personalities across Ijaw nation to eulogize the late Mrs. Bridget Amatuere, a retired Chief Magistrate of the Bayelsa State judiciary who passed on at the age of 68.

Omusuku, in an interview with newsmen at the service of songs held at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Wednesday, described the demise as a great loss to her immediate family, the people of Aleibiri and Ekeremor Communities and the entire Ijaw nation.

He said, apart from being fair to all parties in all the cases she handled and delivering just judgements, the deceased was one person who stood against oppression during her lifetime and committed herself to selfless service to humanity.

Omusuku described her as a disciplinarian and a caring mother who was ready to discomfort herself for the comfort of others around her; saying that she would greatly be missed.

He said he was privileged to have married into the family of the late Chief Magistrate and was blessed by her wise counsels, hospitality and guidance.

He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and also urged those she left behind to take solace in the fact that she lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation in every area.

Mrs. Bridget Amatuere passed away on the 30th of May, 2025 at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa after a brief illness and is survived by children, grandchildren and a host of other relatives too numerous to mention.

She will be laid to rest on Friday, July 11 beginning with a valedictory court session at the High Court Complex in Yenagoa by 10am, before being taken to her final resting place at her hometown in Aleibiri, Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

Proposed August 1st protest: Isoko ex-agitators declare support for Otuaro; call for calm, dialogue

The leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has said it will be more profitable for Isoko women to embrace dialogue; rather than embarking on a protest against Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the PAP Coordinator.

This follows a press briefing on Monday by Isoko Women Against Bad Governance - calling on the women of Isoko North and South Council areas to come out enmass on August 1, 2025 in the mother-of-all protest against the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, over allegations of marginalisation and exclusion from the scheme of things.

The women, led by Mrs. Oghenekomeno Umukoro, the chairperson, said since Otuaro took over as PAP Coordinator, no woman or youth from Isoko ethnic nationality has benefited from the various scholarship, vocational training and empowerment programmes of the PAP, hence, the reason behind the planned protest.

However, in a statement on Tuesday, the leadership of Isoko Ex-agitators Forum debunked the claims made by Mrs. Oghenekomeno Umukoro and her group.

The statement signed by self-styled General Lucky Jonah explains that from preliminary investigation, the women are being sponsored to take to the streets to drag Dr. Dennis Otuaro's name in the mud.

Lucky Jonah, in the statement, cautioned the women against being used as tools in the hands of evil politicians to cause pandemonium in Isoko kingdom and Delta State at large; saying that if Otuaro was not doing well, they, as ex-agitators, would have long embarked on a protest against him, rather than women who almost have no part in the Amnesty Programme.

Lucky said Isoko youths are being carried along by the leadership of Otuaro; stressing that Otuaro has been a bunch of blessing to the youths of the Niger Delta.

He also passed a vote of confidence in Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and warned against any distractions or attempts to destroy the already existing good relationship between Isoko ex-agitators and the leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme; saying that they will never allow such to happen.

He said president Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the best decision ever to appoint Dr. Dennis Otuaro to oversee the Amnesty Programme; describing Otuaro as a unifier, a team player and someone who is purpose driven and goal-oriented.

Furthermore, General Lucky Jonah urged the women to cancel the planned protest; stressing that Otuaro is very close to the Isoko people and doesn't need a reminder to do what is best for the youths and women of the Isoko ethnic nationality.