CALL FOR INTERVENTION IN DEGEMA

•••A cry for Justice as indigenes battle oppression on the Sombreiro River

The Degema Kingdom Development Forum has been apprised of the recent egregious actions undertaken by the Royal Fouche Security outfit, also known as the Amama soldiers. On Thursday, 21st of March, 2024, they rode on speedboats across the length and breadth of Sombrero River brandishing firearms (specifically AK 47s), identifying, intercepting, and sending back all Degema indigenous fishermen/women, as well as any Degema indigenes engaging in various economic activities in the River for their daily sustenance. They issued a vivid warning to cease engaging in any economic activities in or through the Sombrero River, which has been the customary source of economic livelihood for the indigenous people of Degema.

It is worth noting that barely a month ago, on the 23rd of February 2024 precisely, this same security outfit ambushed and attacked unarmed Degema indigenes who were returning from the mortuary with a corpse for burial. Men, women, and children were wounded, and many were killed (approximately 8 persons), with their bodies being carted away to conceal the evidence. The body that was recovered is presently at the Degema mortuary with the expectation that the police will conduct the investigation as publicly promised.

The esteemed leadership of this platform, represented by the Degema Council of Chiefs, urgently beseeches His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, security agencies, and the esteemed leadership and elites of the Kalabari Kingdom to intervene and rein in Asari Dokubo and his security outfit from carrying out their threats. The Degema people will not sit idly by and watch their natural sources of livelihood be severed in an attempt to annihilate them by the Royal Fouche Security outfit.

It is crucial to underscore that the people of Degema are neither timid nor capable of being cowed into submission. We are a community guided by principles of peace and harmony and vehemently opposed to any further bloodshed on our sacred land, Degema.

RIVERS STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS STATEMENT

MY DEAR GOOD PEOPLE OF RIVERS STATE.
I CONSIDER IT NECESSARY TO ISSUE THIS PRESS STATEMENT ON THE DEVELOPMENTS OF THE PAST FEW DAYS IN OUR DEAR STATE.

LATE ON SUNDAY NIGHT, 29TH OCTOBER 2023, I WAS INUNDATED WITH REPORTS THAT THE HALLOWED CHAMBER OF THE RIVERS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY HAS BEEN GUTTED BY FIRE. THE BLAZE WAS SUCCESSFULLY PUT OUT BY THE FIRE SERVICE, AFTER WHICH SECURITY AGENCIES TOOK CONTROL OF THE SITUATION.

MY VISIT TO THE ASSEMBLY COMPLEX ON MONDAY, 30TH OCTOBER 2023 WAS TO ASSESS THE LEVEL OF DAMAGE AND UNDERTAKE REMEDIAL MEASURES TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY WITHIN THE ASSEMBLY COMPLEX. I CHARGED THE SECURITY AGENCIES TO THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATE THE INCIDENT AND REPORT TO ME.

SHORTLY AFTER, I GOT REPORTS THAT THE STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY HAD BROKEN INTO TWO FACTIONS: ONE CLAIMING TO HAVE IMPEACHED AND SUSPENDED THE HOUSE LEADER AND 3 OTHERS PREPARATORY TO INITIATING AN IMPEACHMENT ACTION AGAINST ME, AND THE OTHER RIVAL FACTION IMPEACHING THE SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER, THUS SPARKING OFF SOME FORM OF POLITICAL CRISIS.

I WISH TO THANK THE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, HIS EXCELLENCY BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, FOR HIS FATHERLY INTERVENTION WHICH OPENED A SERIES OF COMMUNICATION CHANNELS TO FACILITATE THE TIMELY RESOLUTION OF THE FESTERING CRISES. I WISH TO ALSO THANK OUR ELDERS WHO ARE CURRENTLY INTERVENING IN THE MATTER.

LET ME CLEARLY STATE THAT MY ACTIONS ARE AIMED AT RESTORING PEACE AND STABILITY IN OUR STATE. I AM A MAN OF PEACE AND AS GOVERNOR, THE ADVANCEMENT OF OUR STATE IS MY PRIMARY CONCERN. CONSEQUENTLY, NO SACRIFICE IS TOO MUCH FOR ME TO MAKE TO ACHIEVE THIS OBJECTIVE.

FURTHERMORE, IT IS THE COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE IMMEDIATE PAST GOVERNOR AND MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, HIS EXCELLENCY, CHIEF BARRISTER, EZENWO NYESOM WIKE, GSSRS, LIFE BENCHER AND MY HUMBLE SELF, TO LEVERAGE ON OUR POSITIONS AND INFLUENCES WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE STATE TO ADVANCE THE PROGRESS, SECURITY AND WELL-BEING OF OUR PEOPLE.

WE MUST THEREFORE NOT ALLOW CIRCUMSTANCES THAT COULD RETARD ALL EFFORTS AT ACHIEVING GREATNESS FOR OUR PEOPLE TO PREVAIL.

ON MY PART, I AM ALWAYS WILLING AND READY TO EMBRACE THE PATH TO LASTING PEACE AND TRANQUILITY WITH A COMMITMENT TO CONSUMMATING ALL EFFORTS AND INITIATIVES BY MR. PRESIDENT AND OTHER WELL-MEANING NIGERIANS, INCLUDING MY BROTHER GOVERNORS AND THE ELDERS.

I ASSURE THE GOOD PEOPLE AND YOUTHS OF RIVERS STATE, THAT PEACE WILL CERTAINLY PREVAIL AND WE SHALL CONTINUE TO WORK TOGETHER TO ADVANCE THE PEACE, SECURITY, PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT OF OUR STATE.

AS GOVERNOR, I SINCERELY APOLOGISE TO THE GOOD PEOPLE OF RIVERS STATE FOR THE REGRETTABLE ANXIETIES OF THE LAST FEW DAYS, WHILE THANKING YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONCERNS, AND CONTINUED SUPPORT, LOVE, AND PRAYERS.

MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS OUR DEAR RIVERS STATE.

Signed

HIS EXCELLENCY,
SIR SIMINALAYI FUBARA, GSSRS,
GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE.

3RD NOVEMBER, 2023.

Pls add 07039883874

Kalabari Voted Massively For PDP In Appreciation Of Gov Wike's Goodwill, Says DELGA Chairman


The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area and Mayor of Kalabari, Hon. Michael John Williams, has stated that the people of the Kalabari Ethnic Nationality voted massively for the Rivers State Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sir Siminialayi Fubara, and all other National and State Assembly candidates in the just concluded general elections, to show deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of the State, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, because of his goodwill towards them.

The Council Boss, who disclosed this during the commissioning ceremony of the first phase of the Trans-Kalabari Road, Tuesday, noted that the Kalabari people had never benefited so much from any former administration since the creation of the State, like they have done in the Wike administration.

He noted that although some other persons from the Kalabari extraction threw their hats in the ring for the governorship, but the Kalabari people, reputed for their gratitude towards good deeds, rather opted for Sim Fubara, as a demonstration of their appreciation towards the governor for his magnanimity towards them.

The DELGA helmsman, who further stated that the Kalabari people were overjoyed with the actualization of the first phase of the road project, added that the crowd of people at the event was to say 'thank you' to the governor for linking six island communities, that were hitherto inaccessible by road, to the mainland.

Earlier in his address, the Amanyanabo and Paramount Ruler of Abonnema, HM King Barr. Disrael Gbobo Bob-Manuel ii, Ekineye Gbobo, Owukori IX, while thanking Gov. Wike for the milestone achievement, noted that the governor had lived up to the title of Se-Ibidokibo 1 of Kalabari (one who does good for the Kalabari people), bestowed on him during the Grand Civic Reception, held in his honour by the people of the Kalabari Ethnic Nationality.

The Monarch, who is also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of Benue State University, particularly thanked the governor for elevating several chieftaincy stools in Kalabari and recognition of incumbents, as well as executing several notable projects in Kalabari land, praying God to give the governor the grace to continue to stand by and support the Kalabari people, even after he leaves office.

Giving the project description, the Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Dr. Dax Alabo George-Kelly, stated that the road, connecting six communities of Krakrama, Minama, Angulama, Sangama, Omekwe-Ama and Omekwe-Tari-Ama, has a total length of 13.545km.

He said the project, which was flagged-off and completed within 18 months as scheduled, despite some futile attempts to frustrate it, has a major bridge on the Degema-Krakrama stretch, built in such a way that both on low and high tides, river crafts could navigate through.

Dr. George-Kelly, who commended the governor for writing his name in the sands of time, noted that before the construction of the first phase of the Trans-Kalabari Road by the Wike administration, only 12 of the 33 communities in Kalabari were accessible by road.

In his address, Rivers State Governor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike thanked the Kalabari people for what he described as their "wonderful performance" during the just concluded governorship election.

He noted that the Kalabari people were wise enough to know that the over seven candidates from their area, who contested for the governorship, were unserious, but merely wanted to appear on televisions and bear the title of former governorship candidates.

"Let me use this opportunity to thank the people of Kalabari, making up the three LGAs for the wonderful performance you showed in the last election.

"I know over seven of your children were making attempts to be known, not that they were making attempts to win elections; they know there was no way they would have won, but let it just be on record that they have opportunity to appear before Arise news.

"But I thank you for identifying that they were not serious, and you do not want anybody to take you backwards."

The governor stated that despite attempts by some enemies of progress to frustrate the project, by kidnapping some staff of the construction company, the State Government was determined to deliver its promise to the people, as it would not be intimated to abandon it.

The governor, who reiterated his administration's resolve to continue to award and commission projects till its last day, announced that his administration would award the Minama-Obonoma road before leaving office in two months.

The Special Guest of Honour and Governor of Oyo State, who inaugurated the project, commended Governor Wike for doing well for the entire people of the State.

He noted that he had been in the State a couple of times to either commission or flag-off one project or another in different parts of the State, adding that his administration has taken a cue from the governor to replicate his project delivery in Oyo State.

The occasion was well attended with dignitaries and guests across the country.

The hospitable and peace loving people of Kalabari showcased their rich cultural heritage, both in masquerade and Iria display, to thrill and entertain guests.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

March 28, 2023

Bukuma Declares Total Support For PDP
••• As LGA Party Campaign Train Arrives Ward 15

The good people of Bukuma (Agum) Community in Ward 15 of Degema Local Government Area have declared total support for all candidates of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, ahead of forthcoming general elections.

The community made their position known, Friday, during the grand finale of the party's Ward-to-Ward campaign rally, which held in Bukuma Community.

Addressing residents and community members, the Council Chairman, Hon. Michael John Williams, disclosed that the party rescheduled its earlier campaign rally to the area, in order to alter the initial sequence of combining Tombia and Bukuma on the same day, adding that such arrangement usually led to a rush situation.

"We suspended the earlier scheduled Bukuma campaign, because campaign grand finales usually end in Bakana and Tombia, but this time around, we decided to change that, by doing it today.

"And we used to combine Tombia and Bukuma, but we decided to change it, by doing them separately, in order to have ample time to interact and connect with our people," Hon. Williams noted.

The LGA helmsman dismissed rumours that the party had initially cancelled its campaign in the community, maintaining that the PDP had great regard for Bukuma, which had remained a stronghold of the party since 1999.

The Council Boss, while expressing confidence of the party's chances of clinching victory in Ward 15, boasted that no other mushroom party in the area could organize such a political rally that would be attended by a large crowd of community members, made up of all demographics.

While urging the Bukuma people to remain committed and vote massively for all candidates of the PDP as directed, the DELGA Sheriff assured them that their community would greatly benefit from the incoming administration of Sir Siminialayi Fubara, as it would undertake the next phase of the Trans-Kalabari Road that
would link their community to the hinterland.

Speaking on behalf of other candidates of the party, the House of Assembly Candidate for Degema Constituency, Hon. Peter Abbey, assured that when elected, he and others would not take the people of Bukuma for granted, adding that; "Agum is my territory, it is my home; they know me and I know them."

On her part, Vice Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Mrs. Maureen Obuba Harry, who commended the Council Boss for his mentorship, as well as making the people of Bukuma proud, declared that the PDP would sweep the votes of Ward 15, because there were no other political parties in Bukuma.

Earlier, welcoming the Council Chairman and Coordinator of the LGA Campaign Council, Hon. Michael John Williams and members of the party to his palace, the Nwamoema of Bukuma, HRH King Stephen Jeremiah Tobins, AKII X, declared that Bukuma is traditionally a PDP community.

He noted that although the traditional institution in the area was not directly involved in partisan politics, it was however their wish and prayers that the elections were conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, devoid of rancour and violence.

The campaign rally in Ward 15 was well attended by party leaders, stakeholders and scores of party faithful.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

February 17, 2023

Don't Vote Candidates Who Will Block Your Only Access Route To Your Communities, DELGA Sheriff Warns

The Sheriff of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams has warned people of the LGA not to vote for candidates that would deny them access to the only route through which they travel to their communities.

The Council Boss gave the warning, Saturday, during the Rivers West Senatorial District Campaign Rally of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which took place in Ahoada East LGA.

Addressing scores of party faithful across the eight LGAs of the Rivers West Senatorial District, the Mayor of Kalabari warned that the main opposition; All Progressives Congress (APC), if voted into office, would execute their initial plot to buy off Abonnema Wharf and fence it, to prevent coastal community dwellers, whose access route to their communities is through Abonnema Wharf.

He assured the Governorship Candidate of the PDP, Sir Siminialayi Fubara and all other National and State Assembly candidates of overwhelming victory, as according to him, Degema LGA is fully Simplified and a no-go area for the failed opposition party.

The event was colourful and well attended, as candidates and party leaders across the district took turns to speak to their people.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

February 11, 2023

Sim Fubara'll Continue My Legacy, Deliver Next Phase Of Trans-Kalabari Road, Says Gov Wike
•••Degema Will Not Put PDP To Shame, DELGA Sheriff Assures


The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, has assured the people of Kalabari that the Sir Siminialayi Fubara administration, when elected into office, would consolidate and build on the legacies of his administration, particularly in Kalabari land.

The governor gave the assurance, Thursday, while addressing scores of party faithful at the campaign rally of the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Degema.

He noted that his administration had made some remarkable achievements in Degema LGA and across Kalabari land, amongst which included the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road construction, which he said would soon be commissioned in the coming weeks.

The governor added that the incoming administration of Sir Siminialayi Fubara would continue from his legacy in the area, by undertaking other phases of the Trans-Kalabari Road, which had remained a pipe dream project, until his administration made it a reality.

Governor Wike further stated that his administration had awarded the dualization of the Emohua/Kalabari Road to address the suffering of the people on the road, assuring that although his administration would not be able to see to its completion before leaving office in three months, the incoming administration would however ensure its completion.

While urging the people of Degema to be wary of the antics of the opposition elements, whom he described as 'bogibogi people,' Governor Wike commended the people of Degema for their steadfastness with the PDP since 1999, charging them to continue to vote for the PDP, in order to enjoy more democratic dividends.

The Rivers State Governor, who also used the occasion to commend the Council Chairman, Hon. Michael John Williams, for doing his best for the LGA, enjoined leaders and members of the PDP to embark on intense unit-by-unit mobilization for the party ahead of the elections, as the era of election rigging by the opposition parties were over.

In his speech, Governorship Candidate of the PDP, Sir Siminialayi Fubara declared that the PDP was on ground in Degema LGA and had no reason to lose sleep over nonexistent political parties in the LGA.

He stated that the PDP appreciates Degema, for which reason it gave the LGA the number two seat of deputy governor, as well as other infrastructural projects, assuring that his administration would consolidate on the gains of the Wike-administration in the area.

In his address, the DELGA Sheriff and LGA Coordinator of the PDP Campaign Council, Hon. Michael John Williams, while welcoming the governor and his entourage to the LGA, declared that "Degema is PDP and PDP is Degema."

He stated that the party's campaign rally in the LGA was a mere formality, as the LGA was already connected to the Sim Network for a greater Rivers State.

The Council helmsman assured the PDP that the people of Degema LGA would not put it to shame in the forthcoming elections, because the party had never let the people of the LGA down.

The campaign rally was well attended by the governor and his entourage, candidates of the national and state Assembly within the zone, as well as scores of party faithful across the 17 political Wards of the LGA.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

February 2, 2023

DEGEMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL

SPECIAL INVITATION

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area and Coordinator of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council in DELGA, Hon. Michael John Williams, heartily welcomes His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Rivers State and Doyen of Infrastructure in Africa, Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, GSSRS, POS Africa, Life Bencher, his Deputy and Rivers West Senatorial District Candidate, Her Excellency, Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, DSSRS, the Rivers PDP Governorship Candidate, Amaopusenibo Sir Siminialayi Fubara, DSSRS, and his running mate, Prof Ngozi Odu, the PDP Chairman in Rivers State, Ambassador Desmond Akawor and the State Executive Council, members of the National and State Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, National and State Assembly Candidates, as well as our distinguished guests to Degema, for the LGA PDP Campaign Rally.

Consequently, the Council Chairman cordially invites traditional rulers, party leaders, political appointees of the Council, stalwarts and members of the PDP across the LGA, as well as the general public to attend the august event.

Date: Thursday, February 2, 2023

Time: 10am

Venue: Agric Field, Degema.

Wamina Se-Ibidokibo Ibote, Alua!

Signed:
Hon. Michael John Williams
Executive Chairman,
Degema Local Government Area and Coordinator, DELGA PDP Campaign Council.

DELGA PDP Concludes Ward-to-Ward Campaigns In Bakana With Assurance Of Victory


The Degema Local Government Area Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has concluded its Ward-to-Ward campaigns, to woo electorates to vote for candidates of the party, vying for various elective offices, ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking at the grand finale of the campaign, which held in Bakana, Saturday, the Council Chairman, Hon. Michael John Williams, assured the people of the continued goodwill of the PDP, as they maintained their support for the party.

He noted that the people of DELGA were major stakeholders in the incoming administration of Amaopusenibo Siminialayi Fubara, because they were one of his foremost supporters, who stood firmly for him and gave him 100 percent votes in the primary election of the party.

He enjoined them to vote for all candidates of the party and anticipate continuous democratic dividends, assuring that all the party's candidates were people of integrity, who will not disappoint when elected into office.

On his part, Leader of the PDP and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, while commending Governor Nyesom Wike and the Council Chairman for their numerous achievements, added that the people of Bakana had no reason not to vote for the PDP.

He added that the forthcoming elections would be a walkover for the party, because most of the opposition leaders, were now in the PDP family, shrinking the opposition to an insignificant few.

In his speech, Candidate for the House of Representatives, Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, Warisenibo Cyril Hart, seized the day to commend the leader of the PDP as well as the Chairman of Council for being at the centre of the decision to zone the ticket back to Bonny LGA.

He particularly described the Council Chairman as his 'political angel' and a friend that sticks closer than a brother, adding that; "I can not come here to campaign before those who took the decision to zone the ticket back to Bonny; they have already done the needful from the word go."

Hon. Cyril Hart, who further described the Bakana event as a 'thanksgiving rally,' commended Governor Wike and the Council Chairman for their sterling performances in office, noting that he was riding to victory on the strength of their achievements.

"My leaders, I do not have much to tell you, but to say thank you.

"In Tombia the rally was declared a victory rally, but today what I am seeing here is not victory rally but thanksgiving.

"This is thanksgiving after a victory rally, because we are riding on the achievements and successes of the Executive Governor; what he has done for Kalabari people.

"I am particularly riding on the significant projects and the monumental achievements of the Executive Chairman of Council; two of his projects are standing right before us."

Also speaking, Candidate of the House of Assembly for Degema Constituency, Hon. Peter Abbey, while assuring adequate representation, added that his administration would give key focus to the people of Bakana, when voted into office.

On his part, a stalwart of the party and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Roland Obed-Whyte, lauded Governor Nyesom Wike and the Council Chairman for their good stewardship to the people of Bakana, adding that with the numerous achievements of the PDP, it was certain that the community would reciprocate the kind gesture of the party during the polls.

The grand finale in Bakana featured the six political Wards of the LGA, including; Ward One, Two, Three, Four, Five and Six.

Earlier, the party's campaign train was in Ogurama Community of Ward 17 (A), where community and party leaders spoke to the conscience of the people of the Ward.

Addressing the campaign train, the immediate past Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman of Ogurama, Comrade Harmony Douglas, who apologized on behalf of the community over their poor outing in recent times, assured the party that the community had resolved to work in synergy to deliver the PDP, which had given them so much.

In his speech, Rivers State Commissioner for Power, Hon. Damiete Herbert Miller, while commending the community for standing by him in the past eight years as a commissioner, appealed for more support, as according to him; "I can not work alone for the victory of PDP in Ogurama."

He encouraged them to remain steadfast with the PDP, adding that they could attain whatever position they desired only with the PDP, just like the party transformed his life to what it is today.

The party's campaign rallies in both communities were well attended by dignitaries, party leaders and scores of party faithful across the Wards of the LGA.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

January 22, 2023

Don't Waste Your Votes For Mushroom Parties In DELGA, Council Chairman Urges
••• As PDP Takes Ward-to-Ward Campaign To Tombia

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has urged the people of Tombia not to waste their votes in the forthcoming elections, by voting for any of the mushroom political parties, vying for elective positions, as doing that would be a venture in futility.

Hon. Williams, who made the statement, Friday, during the Ward-to-Ward Campaign rally of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Tombia, noted that Tombia Community plays a key role in Degema politics and also has a unique pattern of voting in bloc for their preferred candidates.

The Council Chairman added that due to the massive support that the PDP enjoys from the community, the party had also been very equitable to the people of Tombia, which is why they have always held positions in every political dispensation, since the inception of the PDP.

While assuring the continued goodwill of the party to the people of Tombia, the Council Boss enjoined them to consolidate on their past records, by voting massively for all candidates of the PDP, including Sir Siminialayi Fubara, Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Warisenibo Cyril Hart and Hon. Peter Abbey, for Governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly seats respectively.

He assured them that it was only in the PDP that their interest would be guaranteed and protected, urging them to remain committed to the party that has demonstrated goodwill to them over the years.

Also speaking, Leader of the PDP and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, commended the people of Tombia for their loyalty and commitment to the PDP since 1999, noting that; "Tombia has never stood on the wrong side politically."

He assured that as the people of Tombia continue to vote for the PDP, they will also continue to enjoy more privileges and goodwill from the party.

In his speech, a foremost leader in Tombia and former Caretaker Committee Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Ombo Benebo, while encouraging members of the community to remain steadfast with the PDP, in order for them to remain relevant in the scheme of things, added that Tombia is a PDP community.

He however, used the occasion to appeal to the Governor of Rivers State, Chief Barr Nyesom Wike, to forgive the community, over the misconduct of one of their sons; Hon. Farah Dagogo, incumbent House of Representatives member, representing Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency.

While urging the people of Tombia to reciprocate the kind gesture of the governor through the ballot, Chief Ombo Benebo thanked the governor for demonstrating his love for Tombia Community, by constructing a world-class secondary school for them, appealing to him to find time out of his busy schedule to commission the school for public use.

On his part, House of Representatives Candidate for Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, Warisenibo Cyril Hart, who used the occasion to pay glowing tributes to the leaders of Degema, for zoning the position back to Bonny without compulsion, also restated his commitment to give quality representation to the Constituency, when voted into office.

He noted that he had not come to Tombia to campaign, because the people of Tombia and Bonny have ancestral connection, hence he had come to interact with his kinsmen.

The House of Representatives hopeful who gave a brief account of himself as a former public office holder, advised electorates to always interrogate politicians who come to seek their votes, and judge them by their track records of performance.

Also speaking, House of Assembly Candidate for Degema Constituency, Hon. Peter Abbey, while giving gratitude to God and leaders of the party over his emergence, assured the people of DELGA of adequate representation.

He added that although he was not expecting anything less than a 100 percent votes from Tombia, same bloc votes should also be given to all other candidates of the party, because he would not be working alone when voted into office.

Speaking on behalf of the four Councillors of Tombia, Leader of the Degema Legislative Assembly, Hon. Alapuye Duke, described the occasion as a victory rally, maintaining that the PDP had already won the elections in Tombia.

Hon. Duke stated that the community, which had always voted massively for the PDP, has got more reasons to vote overwhelmingly for the party, due to the bold footprints of the Governor Nyesom Wike and Hon. Michael John Williams' administrations in Tombia.

While giving the assurance of the people of Tombia to the leadership of the PDP, the Leader of the Legislative Council noted that;

"In this forthcoming elections, we are not just fighting for victory; we are fighting from victory.

"When you are fighting for victory, it is as if you are defeated and you are striving to become a victor, but if you are fighting from victory, you are a victor, consolidating on victories."

All other leaders, who spoke at the event emphasized the need for the community to maintain its unbroken record of delivering the PDP.

The campaign rally was well attended by dignitaries, party leaders, and scores of party faithful across the LGA.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

January 20, 2023

DELGA PDP Campaign Train Tours Usokun, Obuama
••• As Communities Pledge Total Support For Party


In continuation of the ongoing Ward-to-Ward campaigns of the Degema Local Government Area Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party ably led by the Chairman of DELGA and LGA Coordinator of the Campaign Council, Hon. Michael John Williams, Wednesday, toured Wards 13 and 14 of Usokun and Obuama Communities respectively, to woo electorates to vote for candidates of the PDP.

Speaking to residents of both Communities during the campaign rallies, which held sequentially, Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Michael John Williams, reminded the people of the party's goodwill towards them over the years, assuring them that the party would continue to bring more democratic dividends to them, if voted into power.

Addressing the Usokun Council of Chiefs, the Council Boss, who thanked the community for their continued, understanding, support and loyalty to his administration, disclosed that by the end of March, the Corpers' Lodge, which was put before him by their community leaders as a priority project, would be redesigned and completed.

He added that thereafter, another major project would be executed for them, inline with his administration's promise of executing projects in all communities of the LGA.

Also speaking while paying homage to the Obuama Council of Chiefs, the Council Boss pledged to revisit the Community Town Hall, which his administration had earlier rehabilitated.

On her part, the Deputy Governor and Senatorial Candidate for Rivers West Senatorial District, Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, while thanking the people for their dedication to the party over the years, called on them to remain steadfast and vote massively for all candidates of the party in the forthcoming elections.

She assured the people that when elected, her administration would give them quality representation and be a voice to speak for the interest of Rivers people at the national level.

In his solidarity speech, a political leader in Akuku-Toru LGA, Chief Hon. David Briggs, while appealing to electorates to vote for all candidates of the PDP from Governorship, National and State Houses of Assembly elections, declared that any Kalabari man who does not vote for the PDP does not love Kalabari.

He explained that it is by supporting people from other ethnic nationalities, that the Kalabari people would also enjoy the overwhelming support of others, when the lot eventually falls on them.

On his part, Leader of the PDP in DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, noted that PDP in Rivers State started in DELGA and had remained the party of the people since 1999.

He added that the PDP had also been very fair to the people of Degema, making them occupy the number four (Deputy Speaker), three (Speaker) and now two (Deputy Governorship) positions in the State, amongst other positions.

He eulogized the Deputy Governor as a woman of inestimable value, whose loyalty and dedication to the governor earned her the Senatorial Ticket of the party, calling on all Degema people to vote massively for the traditional party of the LGA.

Hon. Pleasant Braide added that Gov Nyesom Wike loves the people of Degema, which made him to bless the LGA with his replica, Hon. Michael John Williams, whose administration has changed the narratives in local government administrations.

All other leaders who spoke at the various rallies in Usokun and Obuama, encouraged the people to remain loyal and committed to the PDP, assuring them of the party's continued goodwill towards them beyond 2023.

Dignitaries, party leaders and scores of party faithful attended the twin events.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

January 18, 2023

DELGA PDP Flags-off Ward-to-Ward Campaigns
•••As Wards 11, 12 Declare Total Support For PDP


With 39 and 53 days away to the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, have flagged-off their Ward-to-Ward campaigns, to woo electorates to vote for candidates of the party, vying for various offices, both at the State and National levels.

The party's campaign train, led by the Projects-Oriented Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Michael John Williams, kicked off the campaign from Degema Consulate, the administrative headquarters of the LGA in Ward 11 and thereafter proceeded to Degema Town in Ward 12 of the LGA.

Speaking to the people of the areas, the Council Chairman, stated that the PDP had not come to campaign to them, but to celebrate the party's victory with the people ahead of the polls.

He said the achievements of the PDP in the LGA were so enormous that the people would not think it twice to cast their votes for the party that has done so well for them.

While promising to bring more dividends of democracy to the people, the Council Chairman also assured that his administration would address the water challenge of the people of Ward 12 in the coming days.

The Council Chairman also announced the immediate appointment of four indigenes of the community as Special Assistants, two of whom were decampees from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP.

He assured the decampees of inclusion in the party, calling on the leadership of the Ward to fully integrate them and carry them along in all activities of the party.

Also speaking, Leader of the PDP and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, who pointed out the various developmental strides of the PDP in the LGA, stated that the party's numerous achievements were enough to campaign for it, as against those opposition elements, who make bogus promises and fail to keep them.

He enjoined people of the Ward to obtain their Permanent Voters' Cards (PVCs), in order to vote for candidates of the PDP and be ready to defend their votes, adding that the days of ballot box snatching and stuffing by opposition elements were gone for good.

In his speech, Candidate of the House of Representatives for Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, Warisenibo Cyril Hart, thanked the people of Degema for what he described as a brotherly gesture, in zoning the position to Bonny LGA, where the lot fell on him to fly the flag of the party.

He noted that though the seat was meant for both LGAs, without the magnanimity and brotherly consideration of the Degema leaders, Bonny LGA would not have stood a chance at the seat, considering the numerical strength of the former to the latter, adding; "thanks for caring for your brothers."

Hon. Cyril Hart, popularly called Makanaki, assured the people Degema of quality representation at the Green Chamber, when elected into office, stressing that the National Assembly was not a place to send mediocres, who do not understand the peculiarity and challenges of the people of the Constituency.

The House of Representatives hopeful, who is also a former Caretaker Committee Chairman of Bonny LGA and Board Commissioner, Universal Basic Education (UBE), Hon. Cyril Hart, while commending the Chairman of Degema LGA for his monumental achievements in office, stated that he and other candidates of the party would be riding to victory on the successes of the administrations of Governor Nyesom Wike and Hon. Michael John Williams.

On his part, Chairman of the PDP in DELGA, Chief Hon. Taribo Benson, who encouraged members of the party to see the forthcoming elections as an opportunity to work for themselves, added that the party was well entrenched in the LGA and would win overwhelmingly as it had been doing since 1999.

Also in their contributions, Leaders of Ward 11 and 12, Chief Hon. Tonye Tyger and Dr. Emily Solomon, assured the PDP and its candidates of the continued support of their people to the party that has done so much for them.

Highpoint of the campaign was the reception of scores of APC members into the PDP in Ward 12 of Degema Town.

Explaining the reason for their defection, leader of the decampees, Alhaji Hart Inumibolmubo, apprised that it was due to the failure of the APC to carry their members along, as well as the sterling performance of the DELGA Sheriff in projects execution as well as human capacity development.

The campaigns were well attended by the crème de la crème of Degema politics, including; the Council Chairman, Hon. Michael John Williams, his Vice, Hon. Mrs. Maureen Obuba Harry, Leader of the PDP and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, former Chairmen of DELGA; Hon. Tony Philmoore and Chief Hon. Betterland Davies, as well as member representing Degema Constituency at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Anthony Soberekon.

Others were; Commissioner for Power; Hon. Damiete Herbert Miller, former Caretaker Committee Chairmen of DELGA; Chief Tonye Tyger, Chief Ombo Benebo and Hon. Mrs. Okorite Adiele, former Chairmen of Rivers State Civil Service Commission; Chief Ben Orugbani and Sir Ngo Martyns-Yellowe, as well as Chairman of DAA-3 Cluster Development Board; Hon. Mpaka Botoye.

Others include; Amanyanabo of Ke and former member, House of Representatives; HRH King Aboko Agolia, Omoni Benebo XII, Chairman of DELGA PDP, Chief Taribo Benson, second Republic politician and former leader of old Degema LGA; Chief Hon. Levy Bealnut Pedro, member of State Executive Council of the PDP; Hon. Alalibo Graham and former Deputy Mayor, Port Harcourt City LGA, Hon. Alphine Whyte.

Others were; Leader of the Degema Legislative Assembly, Hon. Alapuye Duke and his colleagues across the 17 Wards of the LGA, House of Representatives Candidate for Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, Warisenibo Cyril Hart, State House of Assembly Candidate, Hon. Peter Abbey, pioneer Commissioner for Special Duties in Rivers State, Dr. Emily Solomon, former Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman of Ogurama, Comrade Harmony Douglas and Dr. Tobin Owuso, amongst others.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area.

January 17, 2023

NBA Degema Branch Seeks DELGA Chairman's Support For Resumption Of Judicial Operations In LGA
••• As Council Boss Pledges Support

The leadership and members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Degema Branch, has appealed to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, to assist the branch in their quest to resume operation of the High Court, Degema Judicial Division, which has become non-functional for sometime.

Speaking when the group paid a courtesy call on the Council Chairman, Wednesday, a foremost leader of the Branch, Chief Alu Longjohn, lamented that the closure of the Degema Judicial Division, which is one of the oldest and largest Divisions of the eight Judicial Divisions in Rivers State, has put practitioners and litigants in a very difficult situation, forcing litigants and other court users to go far in seeking legal services.

He disclosed that the Branch had made several efforts to reactivate the High Court, but such efforts had yet to be successful, as insecurity has always been alluded for its nonfunctionality.

"It is unfortunate that the High Court is not sitting in Degema. Efforts made by the Branch to have it functional have not yet yielded any fruit and the reason alluded to this unfortunate development has always been insecurity.

"But we know that it is not true, because occasional insecurity issues are not peculiar to Degema alone, but occurs even in Port Harcourt and other big cities around the world.

"We appeal to you to help us reach the authorities to ensure that the High Court resumes in Degema. The impact will be enormous on the people and area.

"We desire to come back to base. Our quarters are all lying fallow and have started deteriorating," the legal luminary appealed.

Earlier, Chairman of the NBA in Degema, Mr. Victor Amachree, had commended the Council Chairman for his administration's monumental achievements, adding; "your good works have impacted all parts of the LGA."

He commended the Rivers State Governor, Chief Barr Nyesom Wike, for graciously releasing funds to them for the construction of the NBA Secretariat in Degema, to enable the body operate in a decent and comfortable environment.

Mr. Amachree however appealed to the Council Chairman to support the Branch in the soon-to-be commenced construction project, in the areas of provision of water, logistics, as well as adequate security.

In his response, the Council Chairman, pledged to support and collaborate with the group, in order to actualize their quest.

He commended the idea of resuscitating the Degema High Court, which will primarily serve the Kalabari people and others within the Division, adding that every necessary action will be taken by his administration to ensure that the High Court is reopened.

While assuring adequate security to members of the Branch, the Council Boss disclosed that he lives and administers the Council from Degema, without any known threat.

He commended Governor Nyesom Wike for awarding the rehabilitation of the Emohua–Kalabari Road to a reputable construction firm, adding that, when completed, that effort would greatly improve man-hours on the road as well as boost economic activities within the area.

The DELGA Sheriff further disclosed that his administration had concluded plans to commence a project for Usokun community in the coming weeks, adding that Ke, the only community left to get a project from his administration would equally be given theirs, as soon as the ongoing needs assessment is concluded.

He further apprised that his administration would soon shift focus to the Council headquarters, where a brand new Administrative Building and other major projects would be executed.

Members of the Degema NBA Branch in attendance include; Victor Amachree; Chairman, Fabiawari Mark; Vice Chairman, Alabo I. S. Suku; Secretary, Baiyene Alaye Jackreece; Treasurer, Jack Dinah Alasoba; Fin. Sec., Numbere Christabel; Welfare Secretary and Godwll Prince Princewill.

Others were; Chief Alu Longjohn, Obaye Ekine, Clement Braide, Prince Azubuike, Karibi George, Owunari Edwin Iyalla and Somieari Pepple Eucharia.



Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

January 12, 2023

DELGA PDP Releases Campaign Timetable
••• As Council Chairman Boasts Of Party's Victory Ahead Of Polls


In readiness for the forthcoming general elections, slated for February and March 2023 respectively, the Degema Local Government Area Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has released timetable for the party's campaigns, to woo electorates to vote for candidates of the PDP at the polls.

According to the timetable released, the Ward-to-Ward campaigns are scheduled as follows:

Day 1. Tuesday, 17th January – Degema Consulate (Ward 11) and Degema Town –Atala (Ward 12).

Day 2. Wednesday, 18th January – Usokun (Ward 13) and Obuama (Ward 14).

Day 3. Thursday, 19th January – Ke (Ward 17 A) and Bille (Ward 16).

Day 4. Friday, 20th January – Bukuma (Ward 15) and Tombia (Wards 7, 8, 9, & 10).

Day 5. Saturday, 21st January – Ogurama Ward 17 B) and Bakana (Wards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6).

Addressing stakeholders and members of the State, LGA and Ward PDP Campaign Council, at the Council Secretariat in Degema, Wednesday, the LGA helmsman and Coordinator of the Campaign Council in DELGA, Hon. Michael John Williams, boasted that the PDP would emerge victorious on the strength of its overwhelming performance in Degema as well as across the State.

He assured that the unbroken feat of the party in recording landslide victories in the LGA since 1999 would be maintained, adding that Degema is a stronghold of the PDP in Rivers State.

The Council Boss reaffirmed the allegiance of members of the PDP in DELGA to the able leadership and administration of Governor Nyesom Wike, maintaining that the people of Degema LGA would never betray the governor, who had done well for the Kalabari people.

He declared that Degema would be the first LGA to deliver the PDP and all its candidates in Rivers State, adding that there were no other political parties except the PDP in DELGA.

Also speaking, Chairman of the PDP in DELGA, Chief Hon. Taribo Benson, enjoined members of the party to go back home and work as though they were working for themselves, adding that there is reward in service.

He added that; "just like the chairman has appointed over a hundred persons in the Council, when the Sim Fubara administration comes on board, some of you will get appointments at the state level as well, and this can only come through your hard work and commitment to the party."

On his part, Leader of the PDP and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, while entreating members of the party to remain focused and committed to the task ahead, urged them to see themselves as the ones contesting the elections in their various polling units and wards.

He emphasized that although the elections were as good as already won by the PDP, it was however imperative for them to be diligent and vigilant, in order not to allow the opposition elements play a fast one on them.

He eulogized the Council Chairman for always leading the party to victory in previous elections, expressing confidence that with him at the helms of affairs in the Council, the elections would be a walkover for the PDP.

Speaking on behalf of other candidates of the party in the LGA, House of Assembly candidate for Degema Constituency, Hon. Peter Abbey, commended the effort of the Council Chairman in galvanizing members of the party in preparation for the elections, adding that they were humbled by such commitment and would not take it for granted.

All other leaders in their solidarity speeches, committed to working assiduously for the party to emerge victorious in their various polling units, wards and communities across the LGA.

The meeting was well attended by leaders of the party including; the Council Boss, Hon. Michael John Williams, his Vice, Hon. Mrs. Maureen Obuba Harry, Leader of the PDP in DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, former Chairmen of DELGA; Hon. Tony Philmoore and Chief Hon. Betterland Davies, House of Assembly candidate for Degema Constituency, Hon. Peter Abbey and former Vice Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, RSUST, Prof. Victor Omuaru.

Others were; Chairman of the PDP in DELGA, Chief Hon. Taribo Benson, former Caretaker Committee Chairmen; Chief Hon. Tonye Tyger, Chief Ombo Benebo and Chief Boma Dappa, as well as former Chairmen of the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, Chief Ben Orugbani and Sir Ngo Martyns-Yellowe.

Others include; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Roland Obed-Whyte, his counterpart in the Ministry of Primary Healthcare Management Board, Dr. Agiriye Harry, pioneer Commissioner for Special Duties in Rivers State, Dr. Emily Solomon, LGA Liaison Officer and Alternate Coordinator of the LGA Campaign Council, Hon. Michael Ekineh, as well as Leader of the Degema Legislative Assembly, Hon. Alapuye Duke and his colleagues across the 17 Wards of the LGA.

Others were; Chief Levy, Bealnut Pedro, Chief Elias Davies, Hon. Harmony Douglas, Hon. Alamese Martyns-Yellowe, and Revd Success Ekine.

Others included Ward Liaison Officers, members of the State, LGA and Ward Campaign Council, Special Assistants to the State Governor on Polling Unit Affairs, top functionaries and appointees of the Council, amongst others.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

January 11, 2023

DELGA Sheriff Signs N4.8bn Appropriation Bill Into Law

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has signed the 2023 Appropriation Bill into law.

This followed the passage of the Bill and its presentation by the Degema Legislative Assembly to the Council Chairman for assent.

Presenting the Bill to the Council Chairman, Thursday, Leader of the Degema Legislative Assembly, Hon. Alapuye Duke, noted that the Assembly expedited the passage of the Bill considering its importance to the sustained growth and development of the LGA.

He commended the Council Boss for presenting an "efficient and feasible" budget for the 2023 fiscal year before the Assembly, noting that legislators worked round the clock to ensure its speedy passage, for the consolidation of the administration's landmark achievements in projects delivery and other critical areas.

Assenting to the Bill, the Council Chairman commended the leadership and members of the Degema Legislative Assembly for their dedication and patriotism to the service of the people of DELGA.

He stated that his administration would continue to render purposeful leadership to the people of the LGA, assuring that the 2023 Appropriation Bill will be fully implemented to the benefit of the people.

The DELGA Sheriff further disclosed that the Council will organize a special dedication/prayer session in January 2023, to handover the new year to God Almighty and seek His face, guidance and direction for the year, adding that Christ is the pillar of his administration.

It would be recalled that the Council Chairman had last week Tuesday, presented the 2023 Appropriation Bill to the Degema Legislative Assembly for consideration and approval.

The Appropriation Bill christened 'Budget of Economic Consolidation and Sustainability,' had a total revenue projection of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifty-Four Million, Nine Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eight Naira, Forty-Four Kobo (4,854,973,808,44) only.

The Budget summary revealed that; Three Billion, Five Hundred and Seventy-Four Million, Two Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eight Naira, Forty-Four Kobo (N3,574,223,808.44) only, was earmarked for Recurrent Expenditure, while One Billion, Two Hundred and Eighty Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N1,280,750,000.00) only, was earmarked for Capital Expenditure.

Present at the Budget Presentation and Assent, on behalf of the legislators, were principal officers of the Degema Legislative Assembly, including Hon. Alapuye Duke; Leader, Hon. Tamunoemi Harry; Deputy Leader, Hon. Sherry Braide; Chief Whip, as well as the Chairman, House Committee on Budget; Hon. Elvis Gogo Pretoru.

Others were; the Chief of Staff to the Council, Hon. Ipalibo Yellowe, Secretary to the Council, Hon. Nicolas Harry, Supervisors and other appointees.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 29, 2022

DELGA Chairman Presents N4.8B 2023 Appropriation Bill To Degema Legislative Assembly


The Sheriff of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has presented the 2023 Appropriation Bill of N4.8billion before the Degema Legislative Assembly for consideration and approval.

Presenting the Budget, christened: Budget of Economic Consolidation and Sustainability, the Council Chairman disclosed that the 2023 Budget Estimate seeks to sustain and consolidate on the achievements made by the administration since inception.

Hon. Williams disclosed further that his administration's focus in 2023 is the construction of a new state-of-the-art administrative building at the Council Secretariat, completion of ongoing projects and initiation of projects in Communities where Projects were yet to be sited, inline with the administration's development agenda.

The 2023 Budget Estimate has a total Revenue Projection of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifty-Four Million, Nine Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eight Naira, Forty-Four Kobo (N4,854,973,808.44).

The Budget summary revealed that; Three Billion, Five Hundred and Seventy-Four Million, Two Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eight Naira, Forty-Four Kobo (N3,574,223,808.44), was earmarked for Recurrent Expenditure, while One Billion, Two Hundred and Eighty Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N1,280,750,000.00), was earmarked for Capital Expenditure.

The Council Boss highlighted some of the projects and programmes of the administration in the outgoing fiscal year to include;

•Remodeling of Tombia Landing Jetty, Concrete Walkway, Shade and Waiting Lounge

•Reconstruction of Chief India John Yellowe (Opuda Iyalla) Memorial Hall, Bakana

•Upgrading of Chief Tom Fouchee Iboroma Memorial Hall, Bakana

•Pier Toilets in Bakana and Bukuma Communities

•Desilting of Bakana Access Creek

•Patching of potholes on Obuama–Degema Road

•Renovation of Buildings in Council premises

•Construction of Degema Community Town Hall.

Others included; payment of Educational Grants to over 300 varsity students of the LGA and several unannounced empowerment programmes to uplift the living standard of the people.

The DELGA helmsman, while commending the legislators for their cooperation and support, noted that the achievements of the administration would not have been possible without their understanding and collaboration, adding that history will be kind to them for their patriotism.

Receiving the Council Chairman to the Legislative Chamber, Leader of the Degema Legislative Assembly, Hon. Alapuye Duke, commended the Council Chairman for his superlative performance in office, maintaining that "the LGA had never seen it this good in local government administration."

Hon. Duke, who eulogized the Council Chairman as the best performing chairman in Rivers State, added that the DELGA Sheriff has made the LGA proud through his many people-oriented projects and programmes.

He assured the Council Chairman of the continued support and cooperation of the legislative arm to his administration, in order to engender more development to the people of the LGA.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 20, 2022

DELGA Council Organizes Stakeholders Meeting Over 2023 Census
••• As Council Boss Charges Communities To Take Exercise Seriously


Ahead of the forthcoming National Population Census, slated for April 2023, the authority of Degema Local Government Council, Tuesday, convened a stakeholders' meeting, with a view to having mass participation during the exercise.

Addressing the stakeholders, made up of chiefs and other community representatives at the Council Secretariat in Degema, the Council Chairman stated that census is a very important exercise with which the government uses in planning development for the people.

"Census is a very important exercise; it is what the government use in giving us light, water, good roads, amongst others. Development is planned by population," the Council Chairman stated.

He urged the stakeholders to sensitize and mobilize their people to fully participate in the forthcoming exercise, in order for the government to have an accurate data of the people.

The Council Boss, who stated that his desire is for Degema to surpass other LGAs in the State through mass participation, assured that his administration would give all necessary support to enable the agency carryout a successful exercise in the LGA.

He urged the LGA NPC Committee to work with other critical stakeholders to sensitize and encourage community people, whose family members were resident outside their communities to return home and take part in the NPC's headcount.

The Council helmsman enjoined youths of the LGA to take advantage of the extended NPC recruitment and apply for the job as adhoc staff of the commission for the exercise.

He urged the National Population Commission (NPC) to do everything within its powers to conduct a credible and successful census.

Earlier, the Controller of NPC in Degema, Mr. Tubotamuno Akoko, while thanking the Chairman for organizing the stakeholders meeting, noted that the 2023 census would be computerized, to eliminate the era of manual data collation.

He disclosed that it would be the first time that Nigeria would be adopting the digital system, urging the people of Degema to turn out en masse and participate in the exercise.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 13, 2022

DELGA Sheriff, Chief Alabraba Inspect Gov Wike's Signature Projects In Kalabari
••• Express Satisfaction With Pace Of Work


The Sheriff of Degema Local Government Area and Mayor of Kalabari, Hon. Michael John Williams and the Chairman, Rivers State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Wednesday, inspected the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road as well as the Obonoma–Abonnema Sandfilling/Land Reclamation Projects, undertaken by the administration of the Rivers State Governor, Chief Barr Nyesom Wike.

While thanking Gov Wike for his inclusivity in projects execution across the State, they also expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work achieved, expressing confidence that the projects would be delivered in accordance with specification.

The Council Chairman, who was at the site of the Trans-Kalabari Road on Tuesday, assured that his administration would continue to give all necessary support to the construction firm, to enable them work in a safe and peaceful environment.

Hon. Williams, who described the projects as "signature projects," added that upon completion, they would change the physical landscape of the areas and improve economic activities that would stimulate the local economy of the people.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 7, 2022

Earlier today, the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area and Mayor of Kalabari, Hon. Michael John Williams visited the site of the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road project, to ascertain the level of progress achieved.

#wonders_of_Gov_wike

DELGA Sheriff Attends Opobo/Nkoro PDP Campaign Flag-off

The Sheriff of Degema Local Government Area and Mayor of Kalabari, Hon. Michael John Williams, Saturday, attended the Campaign Flag-off of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Opobo/Nkoro LGA chapter.

The party also used the occasion to hold a special Thanksgiving service at the St. Paul's Church, Opobo Town, where prayers were offered for the party's governorship candidate, Amaopusenibo Sir Siminialayi Fubara, as well as other candidates of the PDP in the forthcoming 2023 general elections in Rivers State.

In his address, the host Chairman, Hon. Enyiada Cookey-Gam expressed gratitude to God for granting Opobo/Nkoro the rare privilege of producing the governorship candidate of the PDP in the State, adding that the people of the LGA would work with other Rivers people to actualize the ambition.

Chairman of Port Harcourt City LGA, Hon. Allwell Ihunda, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, charged the people of Opobo/Nkoro LGA to obtain their Permanent Voters' Cards (PVCs), in order to vote massively for Sim Fubara, noting that; "God has brought power to Opobo."

Sir Ihunda, who is also Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Rivers State chapter, noted that the 23 LGA chairmen were committed to Simplify the State, expressing confidence in the ability of Sir Siminialayi Fubara to consolidate on the many achievements of the Governor Nyesom Wike administration.

Speaking on the sideline of the event, the DELGA Sheriff, Hon. Michael John Williams, stated that the large turnout of people at the occasion was a clear indication of the popularity and wide acceptability of the Rivers PDP Governorship Candidate.

He opined that the PDP would record a landslide victory across the State in the 2023 elections, on the strength of the achievements of the party over the years, as according to him, the elections would be about presentation of verifiable scorecards to the electorates and not gimmicks and propaganda.

Guests were entertained by traditional performances from different cultural troupe, while highpoint of the event was reception of defectors from different political parties to the PDP.

The event was attended by dignitaries and stalwarts of the PDP across the State as well as Chairmen of some LGAs, including Hon. Michael John Williams; Degema, Hon. Allwell Ihunda; Port Harcourt City, Hon. Akuro Tobin; Okrika, Hon. Thomas Bariere; Khana and Hon. Mbakpone Okpe; Tai.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 3, 2022

DELGA Chairman Pledges Support For 2023 Census Exercise
••• As LGA NPC Committee Gives Report

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has pledged his administration's commitment to support the forthcoming National Population Census, to be conducted by the National Population Commission (NPC), slated for April 2023.

The Council Boss gave the assurance, Wednesday, when he received members of the 9-man Committee, set up by his administration to facilitate the exercise in the LGA.

He noted that the forthcoming census was a very important event to the country and his administration would do everything to ensure its success, including sensitizing and galvanizing the people of the LGA to fully participate.

The LGA helmsman assured adequate security for personnel and materials throughout the period of the exercise, while also pledging to give logistic support to facilitate the programme.

The DELGA Sheriff, who approved designated government-owned schools as venues for training of adhoc staff for the exercise, equally disclosed that a sensitization meeting between community leaders and other stakeholders would be convened in the coming days at the Council Secretariat.

Earlier, Chairman of the LGA NPC Committee and Supervisor for Transportation, Hon. Inema Oruobu, stated that their visit was to brief the Council Boss on efforts made so far, inline with their terms of reference.

Oruobu stated that following the assurance of the LGA NPC Coordinator to recruit indigenes as adhoc staff for the exercise, the committee members had greatly sensitized and encouraged their people to apply for the ongoing recruitment, noting that the compliance so far was very encouraging.

He however, relayed the appeal of the Commission from the Council to include, approval of government schools as training centres, office space to operate and store materials, security for personnel and materials, transport logistics, amongst others.

Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

December 1, 2022

Degema Is SIMplified, As Rivers New Sim Is Unveiled

The Sheriff of Degema Local Government Area and Mayor of Kalabari, Hon. Michael John Williams, Saturday, led scores of stalwarts and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the LGA to grace the official unveiling of the Rivers PDP Governorship Candidate, Amaopusenibo Sir Siminialayi Fubara.

The event which took place at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, had the G-5 Governors, led by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State as Special Guests of Honour and was also used to unveil other National and State Assembly candidates of the party.

The carnival-like event was remarkable and had sea of heads of party faithful, adorned in their colourful attires.

DELGA New Media
November 19, 2022

Executive Order 21:
DELGA Sheriff Halts SDP Rally For Noncompliance With Regulations
••• Says Disobedience Will Not Be Condoned In LGA

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, Friday, barred the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from organizing its planned rally at the Ministry of Agriculture Field (Agric Field) in Degema, for failure to comply with the Executive Order 21, regulating the use of public premises without express approval from the State and Local Governments.

Addressing a chieftain of the SDP in the LGA at the venue of the planned rally, Barr. Stephen Marcus, the Council Chairman clarified that upon obtaining approval from the State Government, the party or organization involved must present such approval to the local government in charge of the area for concurrence, to avoid a clash of interest in a situation where such venues might have been approved for another organization on same date by the Council administration.

He assured that the local government would never prevent any political party or organization from having access to public facilities and premises in the event where there is compliance to government's regulations, warning that his administration would equally not allow a break down of law and order by any individual or group.

The Council Boss recalled that in order to forestall such fracas, his administration had engaged all political parties in the LGA to enlighten and interact with them on the provisions of the Executive Order 21, which the SDP was also represented, wondering why the party would go ahead to plan a rally without conferring with the Council administration.

The SDP chieftain, Barr. Stephen Marcus, had claimed to have obtained approval from the State Government as well as from the Degema Divisional Police, but in response, the DPO in charge of Degema, Usman Hamza Sani, denied giving any approval for such rally.

He advised the SDP and other political parties in the LGA to do the needful at all times, adding that as a responsible organization, the police works with directives from relevant authorities and synergizes with relevant stakeholders for the maintenance of law and order in the society.

Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

November 18, 2022

Controller Of Degema Correctional Centre Pays Familiarization Visit To Council Chairman
•••Seeks Support, Collaboration With Council


The Deputy Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), in charge of Degema, D. C. Baranaye Spiff, Tuesday, paid a familiarization visit to the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams at the Council Secretariat in Degema.

D. C. Spiff, who recently assumed duty in the LGA as head of the custodial facility, stated that the essence of the visit was to familiarize himself with the Council Boss and seek areas of support and collaboration.

He appealed to the Council Chairman to assist in the provision of electricity, provision of computer systems, purchase of indoor recreational facilities for inmates as well as giving facelift to the Correctional Centre, amongst others.

Responding, the Council Chairman, while congratulating him on his recent posting to the area, assured that his administration would continue to support the Agency.

He assured that the same level of support and cooperation that was given to the former Controller would be extended to the incumbent, adding that the requests, put before the Council would equally be looked into and addressed accordingly.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

November 15, 2022

G-5 PDP GOVERNORS ARE STILL OPEN TO RECONCILIATION -WIKE

Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike says the integrity governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are still open for reconciliation.

This stance, he maintained, is because of the conviction that every critical stakeholders in the party needs to be on board to ensure electoral victory for the party in 2023.

Governor Wike spoke in Bauchi when he led the PDP integrity governors on a solidarity visit to the Bauchi State governor, senator Bala Mohammed on Wednesday.

"I have stated severally that we are here for reconciliation. We have never closed the door for reconciliation. We have never closed the door and we will not close the door."

"All we are saying is that there should be equity, justice and fairness. That is the hallmark of what PDP stands for, equity, justice and fairness."

On the team of the integrity governors were governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State, governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State and the governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi

Governor Wike declared that because the PDP integrity governors are the pillars of the party, they have kept their doors open and are ready for genuine reconciliation.

"All we are saying is that let the right thing be done. When the right thing is done, the whole country will know that election is over.

"This G-5 that you are seeing, we are the bedrock of the party. So, we can't close the door for reconciliation. We are open for reconciliation any day, anytime."

Governor Wike also explained the reason for the solidarity visit to the Bauchi State governor and said it is to ascertain how he was putting up with the challenges of his re-election for his second term.

"Our main motive of coming here is to give solidarity to our brother, the governor of Bauchi state, senator Bala Mohammed. And all we have discussed is to see how by the grace of God, being a gift to the people of Bauchi, he will win his election come 2023.

"So, all our discussion had to centre about his election and we are out to give him all the necessary support as our friend, our brother in the same political family."

Governor Wike explained that the visit became necessary because whatever affects the Bauchi State governor will impact on them as well.

"By the grace of God, I know he has done well in Bauchi and the people of Bauchi State will still vote for him to come back for a second tenure."

In his response, governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State expressed his delight over hosting the PDP integrity governors.

The Bauchi State governor, said it is no secret that he wrote to the national leadership of the PDP to express his concerns about perceived encumbrances as it affects his second term bid in the State.

He explained that this necessitated his meeting on Tuesday with the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Governor Mohammed, who described the G-5 governors as brothers, joked that he was supposed to be part of them in their demand for equity, fairness, justice but he was excommunicated for reasons only known to the members of the G-5.

Despite that, Governor Bala said he had maintained regular contact with them and no day passes by without a call put out to, at least, one of them.

"In politics, you go with the people you share things in common. One thing that I appreciate with them is that they look at your challenges, they are not going back for second term, all of them.

"So, I am happy they are here. I will have the opportunity of confiding in people that I believe I can confide in with some of my worries, my fears, my apprehensions and that of my State. As PDP members, we are of the same family. I will see you as my comrades in this journey of life."


Kelvin Ebiri

Special Assistant on Media to the Rivers State governor.

November 9, 2022.

Just In........

Federal High Court strikes out suit filed by APC seeking to disqualify Sim Fubara.

It is a clear indication that the outcome of the judgement is a victory to the entire Rivers People.

It is only the enemies of the state that cannot subscribe to the SIM FACTOR.

It is not too late to get connected, SIM FUBARA is RIVERS CHOICE.

Power To Rivers People ���

2023 Census:
DELGA Sheriff Inaugurates NPC Committee

Ahead of the forthcoming 2023 National Population Census, the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams has inaugurated a 9-member committee to interface with relevant stakeholders, in order to record a successful and seamless exercise in the LGA.

Inaugurating the committee at the Chairman's Conference Hall in Degema, Tuesday, the Council Boss urged them to see their nomination as a call to service.

He stated that their nomination, which cuts across the nine communities of the LGA, is to ensure massive sensitization and mobilization of the people to take part in the exercise.

Hon. Williams, who pledged his administration's support to the team in their assignment, noted that census is a very important exercise because it helps the government to know its population and plan accordingly, urging the committee members to work with other stakeholders in their communities to achieve success.

Members of the committee include;

Hon. Inema Oruobu - Chairman

Dr. Otokini George - Vice Chairman

Mrs. Stella Godswill Davies - Secretary

Mr. Tamunofiri Degbani - Member

Dr. Ibifuro Sokari Francis - Member

Hon. Michael Wilson Iju - Member

Comr. Anthony Innocent - Member

Mr. Okorite Harry - Member

Mr. Ransom Wenike - Member.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council

November 8, 2022

DELGA Chairman's Performance Will Guarantee Victory For All PDP Candidates In LGA, Says Reps Candidate

••• As Council Boss Declares That No Party Can Rig PDP In DELGA

••• As LGA Campaign Council Is Inaugurated

House of Representatives Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, Warisenibo Hon. Cyril Hart, has expressed confidence that candidates of the PDP would coast to victory in the forthcoming general elections in Degema Local Government Area on the strength of the outstanding performance of the Executive Chairman of the LGA, Hon. Michael John Williams.

Hon. Hart, who made the assertion, Tuesday, during the inauguration of the LGA and Ward Campaign Committee, at the Council Secretariat in Degema, noted that the elections would be about presentation of scorecards to the electorates to make informed decision on the party to vote for, ahead of the elections.

The House of Representatives hopeful, who is a former Chairman of Bonny LGA, commended the DELGA Sheriff for replicating the good works of Governor Nyesom Wike in the LGA, adding that due to his performance, the 2023 elections would be a walk-over for the PDP and all its candidates.

"The Council Chairman and Mayor of Kalabari has made the campaigns very easy. I will be running on his achievements here in Degema to victory.

"Thank you Mr Chairman for all you have done for this LGA; it has made the campaigns very easy," Hon. Hart stated.

He urged members of the campaign council to campaign with the achievements of the Chairman in the various wards and communities of the LGA.

"Those of us who have been commissioned, either as Liaison Officers or Ward executives, to drive this process in the campaign team, the job is easy; you have something to tell the people in the 17 Wards that this Chairman has done in just about a year in office.

"I have been following his activities, so I can make bold to say that this Chairman has performed very well.

"Because of the performance of the chairman, the Governorship, Senatorial, Reps and Assembly Candidates are going to have a smooth ride to our various offices," he added.

In his goodwill message, Acting Chairman of the PDP in DELGA, Chief Hon. Taribo Benson, who noted that the PDP had never lost an election in the LGA since 1999, assured that it would repeat same feat in the forthcoming elections in all contested positions.

While congratulating the newly appointed Liaison Officers and Special Assistants to the Governor, Chief Benson, urged members of the party, who were yet to benefit to remain steadfast.

The party Chief charged party faithful in the LGA to work and demand for something, adding that the party was big enough to accommodate everyone and reward hard work at the appropriate time.

In his speech, Leader of the PDP in the LGA and former Chairman of DELGA, Hon. Pleasant Braide, while stressing the need for commitment by party members to clinch victory, reiterated that politics was all about working for one's own self and not necessarily for any particular candidate.

He stated that although the elections in Degema were as good as over, owing to the sterling achievements of Governor Wike and the DELGA Sheriff, some persons who may choose to be selectively blind needed to be shown and reminded about the various achievements of the PDP in the LGA, adding; "there is enough on ground to show."

While also commending the Council Chairman for complementing the efforts of the governor in the LGA, the party chieftain stated that the achievements of the PDP had completely submerged the opposition parties, adding that "there is no other political party in Degema."

Inaugurating the Campaign Council, the Sheriff of DELGA, Hon. Michael John Williams, declared that no political party or individual could succeed in rigging the PDP.

He added that the PDP did not need to rig the elections, but would win in a landslide, due to the fact that it had endeared itself to the people.

The Council helmsman, who expressed confidence in the ability of the party's candidates to deliver, when voted into office, said "hold me responsible if they don't perform."

He directed that the 6-man Ward Campaign Committees, which is headed by the various councillors are to be expanded to 10 persons per ward.

The inauguration was attended by over Three Hundred (300) members of the compaign council, comprising of members of the State Campaign Council, LGA PDP executives, LGA GDI executives, as well as members of the LGA and Ward Campaign Councils.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

November 1, 2022

GOVERNOR WIKE RELEASES FUND FOR IMMEDIATE COMMENCEMENT OF REPAIR WORK ON EMOHUA-KALABARI ROAD

His Excellency Governor Nyesom Wike has approved the immediate commencement of rehabilitation work on the over 2 kilometres critical failed sections of Emohua-Kalabari Road.

The Governor has consequently released 100 percent of the fund needed for the project, and construction work will commence on Monday 31 October, 2022.

The reconstruction of the major road connecting Kalabari Kingdom to the rest of Rivers State will consist of both concrete (rigid) and asphaltic (flexible) pavements to prevent its dilapidation in the near future. The project is expected to be completed in six weeks.

Dornubari Kiinee

Special Assistant (Media & Documentation) to the Hon. Commissioner for Works, Rivers State

27 October, 2022

DELGA Chairman Urges Iboroma House To Maintain Status Quo Over Chieftaincy Disputation
••• Calls For Unity Amongst Opposing Camps


In continuation of his efforts to resolve the lingering disputation over the paramount headship of the Chief Tom Fouchee Iboroma Group of Houses of Bakana, the Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has urged chiefs, elders, youths and members of the compound to maintain status quo.

Speaking during a stakeholders meeting at the Council Secretariat, Tuesday, the Council Chairman stated that, for the interest of peace and cohesion, the issue of appointing a substantive paramount head of the compound be kept on hold, while upholding the initial unanimous decision of members of the compound, which recognized Chief Hon. Bob John Fouchee Iboroma as Chairman of the Iboroma Council of Chiefs.

He maintained that it was not the interest of the Council authority to meddle into chieftaincy matters by either appointing or recognizing any chief, as it was not within the Council's purview to do so, but to ensure that peace reigned across all communities of the LGA.

"This meeting was not called to appoint any chief, because it is not within our powers to do that. It is rather to make sure that there is peace in Iboroma compound and Bakana at large.

"Whenever you are ready as a compound, you can go ahead and appoint your head Chief in a manner that it will not disturb public peace or cause crisis.

"Having carefully listened to all parties, it is our decision that let status quo be maintained, which means that the compound's earlier decision, empowering Chief Bob John Fouchee Iboroma as Chairman of Iboroma Council of Chiefs, stands," the Council Boss stated.

The DELGA Sheriff however, called on the Caretaker chief to work assiduously and unite the entire compound for the common good of everyone.

He stated that no one should be marginalized in the affairs of the compound, adding that meetings and other engagements should involve all parties, warning that the Council would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who flouts its efforts to maintain peace in the LGA.

Giving the vote of thanks, Chief Bob John Fouchee Iboroma, while thanking the Chairman for handling the matter "maturely," pledged to carry everyone along.

It would be recalled that the Council Chairman had earlier placed a ban on all factional gatherings in the Iboroma compound, pending the resolution of the matter, brought before the Council by the Iboroma people.

The compound had been enmeshed in chieftaincy tussle for over 35 years between the late Chief Jenkinson Bibi Tom Iboroma and Chief Norman Tom Fouchee Iboroma and after the death of the former, the head of the Chief John Fouchee Iboroma House, Chief Bob John Fouchee Iboroma, joined the race for the paramount headship of the Chief Tom Fouchee Iboroma House.

The meeting had in attendance the Council Chairman, Hon. Michael John Williams, chiefs, elders, youths, Councillor representing Ward 5, Hon. Tombo Dokubo, Chief of Staff, Hon. Ipalibo Yellowe, Secretary to Council, Hon. Nicolas Harry, as well as security operatives in the area.


Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Council.

October 11, 2022

DELGA Sheriff Congratulates Rivers United FC, As Team Beats Wydad Athletic FC 2-1

The Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Michael John Williams, has congratulated the Rivers United Football Club, as the team trounced Wydad Athletic FC of Morocco 2-1.

The Starboy of DELGA led a contingent of sports enthusiasts from the LGA to cheer the Rivers United FC, as they displayed the indomitable spirit of Rivers State to the Moroccans.

The match, which took place at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Sunday, ended in a 2-1 victory in favour of the Rivers United team, after the team came behind to lead the game, having suffered an earlier 1-0 lead by the Wydad Athletic FC.

Congratulating the victorious Rivers team, the DELGA Sheriff, while commending them for their tenacity and team spirit, also lauded the Rivers State Governor and Power of Sports in Africa, Chief Barr Nyesom Wike, for his support and huge investment in sporting activities, which he said led to the victory of the team.

DELGA New Media