COVID-19: The Poor Masses Can't Stay At Home Without Palliative Measures, Commence Distribution Of Food Items For Deltans Now, Amb. Mulade Tells Gov. Okowa

COVID-19: The Poor Masses Can't Stay At Home Without Palliative Measures, Commence Distribution Of Food Items For Deltans Now, Amb. Mulade Tells Gov. Okowa

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ A Delta State born human and environmental rights activist, Comrade Sheriff Mulade has called on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State to be more proactive and adopt pragmatic steps to alleviate and cushion the suffering of citizens in the state to save Deltans from the deadly Coronavirus.

Comrade Mulade who speak with journalists at his country home in Benikrukru Town, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West LGA of Delta State expressed worries over the welfare of Deltans, especially their sources of feeding, saying that; "these are poor ordinary citizens that makes daily incomes for living through daily outings".

Comrade Mulade who is the National Coordinator of CEPEJ, a foremost Non Governmental Organisation with headquarter in Warri commended Governor Okowa for the continuous update of Deltans about the deadly global pandemic and dissemination of WHO guidelines to sensitize the people.

He also lauded the Governor for taking bold steps in the closing and the locking-down of border points to the state and restricting movements which according to him is a welcome development, adding that; However, its goes beyond staying at your comfort zone in the Government house by issuing government political policy statements to prevent and curb it".

He said; "Our amiable Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa at this trying time must be encouraged, supported in prayers so that jointly and collectively they could overcome the challenges in the State, but Mulade believes that Government should do the needful by helping the citizens beyond issuing preventive measure as well as guidelines from WHO and the Ministry of Health".

He stated that “Governor Okowa should look forward to adopting practical steps and good measures to save Deltans. Such steps he reasoned should be devoid of political affiliations or party interest and ethnic correlation as the circumstance before the world and Nigeria is health related, according to him, the challenges are not related to politics as the people are not in a political campaign atmosphere where politicians could discredit and criticize each other or gather in affiliations.

The situation is such that party interest and differences must be burried where for politicians and none politicians alike must all support the state government to save Deltans and Nigeria at large", he added.

According to him also; “It is imperative to call on Governor Okowa to begin alternative and palliative measures by purchasing and distributing food items to citizens of the state, which is more important to save their lives rather than continuous threats of restriction of movements and closure of entry points to the state which is equally necessary but the citizens must be alive to overcome this coronavirus pandemic to enjoy the state government infrastructural plans".

In his words; “I want to strongly appeal to our Governor to kindly reach out to Deltans at this trying time with food items directly to save lives immediately, such food items to citizens should be devoid of politics because if the pandemic persist most Nigerians particularly Deltans will die of hunger and starvation as trades are already taking advantage of government inability to control and the market situation. Therefore, our Governor should as a matter of urgency embark on the purchase and distribution of food items through Ethnic and Community Chairmen leadership devoid of party or government interest but should be properly supervised by a committee, Delta State CORONAVIRUS Food Monitoring Taskforce for transparency and accountability. This strategy to the best of my knowledge will help the Government to reach the grassroot.

Comrade Mulade noted that the format suggested should be adopted so that the receiving communities could monitor and collect their legitimate share and the ethnic leadership and Community Chairmen integrity will be at stake, while stringent measures like what has been advanced will stop our political office holders from hijacking and reselling the items".

COVID-19: IYC Ngbilebiri Clan Distributes Disinfectants To Ayakoromo, Bobogbene, Other Communities, Sensitizes The People On Safety Precautionary Measures

COVID-19:  IYC Ngbilebiri Clan Distributes Disinfectants To Ayakoromo, Bobogbene, Other Communities, Sensitizes The People On Safety Precautionary Measures

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The Chairman ljaw Youth Council, lYC Ngbilebiri Mein Clan in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Comrade Amakiye Ekaye and his executive members in the early hours of yesterday 30th March, 2020 embarked on Coronavirus awareness campaign to Ayakoromo, Bobogbene and other communities in the kingdom.

Comrade Amakiye also distributed disinfectants, such as hand sanitizers, Klin detergents, water solution buckets among other items to the communities visited in order to enable them sanitize and protect themselves from contacting the deadly global pandemic.

Addressing Ayakoromo Community, Comrade Amakiye charged the people to maintain social distancing, personal physical hygiene as well as always wash and sanitize their hands in order to stop spread of the disease. He appealed to the people to obey federal and state governments stay at home directive starting from 1st of April, noting that the principle is for the overall good of all Nigerians.

The Chairman was accompanied with his Vice, Comrade Peter Atima, Spokesman, Comrade Nanas Oroupade, Secretary, Comrade Paul Kemezi, Comrade. Ebi Wayas, Comrade Austin Ozobo, the woman leader, Comrade Nurse Osuwo, Comrade Vincent Ayemi, Comrade Porbeni Ikemba among others visited various communities in the kingdom to sensitize them on precautionary measures towards the dreaded Coronavirus pandemic.


Comrade Amakiye handed over the items to Ayakoromo Community Chairman as well as Bobogbene for on ward distribution to the various quarters in their communities.

However, Amakiye extends his appreciation to lYC National President, Barr. Eric Omare and the leader IYC Ngbilebiri Clan, Barr. Preye Onduku for their support in making the awareness campaign a successful one.

Responding on behalf of Ayakoromo community, the Chairman, Mr. Moses Mienkoromo thank lYC Ngbilebiri Clan for the timely enlightenment campaign as well as the disinfectant items given to the community.

He said, " This is the first of its kind since the outbreak of the Coronavirus disease. I must commend lYC for deeming it fit to come to our aid in this trying time. I want to assure you that we shall make judicious use of the items given to us, and we promise to enforce government stay at home order in the community, Mr. Moses stated."

COVID-19: Human Rights Activist, Amb. Mulade Cautions Nigerian Police, Other Security Agents To Respect Human Rights In Enforcing Compliance

COVID-19: Human Rights Activist, Amb. Mulade Cautions Nigerian Police, Other Security Agents To Respect Human Rights In Enforcing Compliance 

Francis Tayor

A renowned human rights and Peace advocate in Nigeria, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has appealed to the Inspector General of Police, Idris Muhammad, AIGs and Commissioners of police in various states of the federation to strongly advise, caution and charge officers of the police force to kindly respect the fundamental rights of Nigerians and other Nationals in the enforcement of lockdown, closure and restriction of movements across the Nation.

Comrade Sheriff who is also the National Coordinator of a foremost Peace, human rights and Environmental advocacy NGO, the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, strongly appealed to security agencies, particularly the Nigeria police to adhere strictly to the fundamental rights of Nigerians as enshrined in the constitution while enforcing compliance to curtail and prevent the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus.

Comrade Mulade expressed concerns and worries over the way and manners some police officers charged with the responsibility of protecting lives and property are now the ones vandalizing items that they are expected to protect, noting that Nigerians are going through sudden and unexpected  trauma which needs encouragement and polite  engagement.

He stated that the law enforcement agents and the entire populace are  victims of this difficult time, therefore the Nigeria police and other security agencies saddled with the responsibility of enforcing adherence to orders should exercise caution so as not to inflict pains and more hardship which will exasperate the already harsh and tense situation in the country.

He charged the Nigeria Media, the Federal and State governments to continue to educate the people with relevant information on why they should continue to obey restriction orders from the government.  He said that the law enforcement agents should equally understand that a larger population of the people are semi-literates and illiterates, and therefore communities may find it difficult to comprehend properly the COVID-19 virus and the dangers it poses to the entire nation.

He further noted that there would be resistance from the people on the various restrictions and lockdown orders due to lack of understanding but as the days go by it will need the efforts of all enlightened minds to educate and put the public in the right position to abide by the laws from government which will assist in our collective fight of COVID-19 virus that has become a global pandemic.

COVID-19: Burutu Council Boss, Hon. Angele Embarks On Awareness Campaign Across Communities In The Council, Distributes Sanitizers, Other Hygienic Kits To The People

COVID-19: Burutu Council  Boss, Hon. Angele Embarks On Awareness Campaign Across Communities In The Council, Distributes Sanitizers, Other Hygienic Kits To The People

Francis Tayor

Warri____ The Executive Chairman of Burutu local government Area of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, yesterday 29th March, 2020 led a team of medical doctors to embarked on awareness campaign on the dangers and precautionary measures of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic across communities in the council area.

Hon. Angele talk tough on social gathering and urged rural dwellers to abide by the federal government stay at home directive in order to stay alive.

The chairman was accompanied with the Council Secretary, Hon. Prince Sunny Perekeme, the DPO, DSS Boss and health officials gathered various community chairmen in Burutu at Tamigbe, to sensitize them on precautionary measures towards the Corona virus Pandemic.

Hon. Angele who personally distributed sanitizers and other hygienic kits to the chairmen, caution them to observe social distance, and many safety tips on how to stay safe.

Speaking at the gathering, Dr. Igbapike educated the chairmen on how best to wash their hands and the usage of the sanitizers.

The local government Chairman used the medium to warn all community chairmen to convey the message of outright ban on every social gathering henceforth, saying any defaulting community Chairman with the organizer of such event shall made to face the full wrath of the law.

The Chairman of the host community Tamigbe, while giving vote of thanks, appreciate the chairman and his team, for the laudable venture.

Dilapidated lnfrastructure: Concerned Youth Of Ojobo Community, Comr. Timipre Appeals To Hon. Pullah To Renovate Dilapidated Zoukumor Primary School Ojobo, For The Community

Dilapidated lnfrastructure: Concerned Youth Of Ojobo Community, Comr. Timipre Appeals To Hon. Pullah To Renovate Dilapidated Zoukumor Primary School Ojobo, For The Community

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ A concerned citizen of Ojobo Federated Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Comrade Timipre Ndoni has draw the attention of the member representing Burutu Constituency ll in Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Pullah Ekpotuayerin to come to their aid by renovating the dilapidated Zoukumor Primary School for pupils to learn in a conducive environment.

Comrade Timipre made the appeal yesterday 28th March, 2020 through an open letter addressed to the honourable member, said Hon. Pullah is a son of Ojobo Community and he has the capacity to put the school in order. He appealed to the honourable member to use his good office to uplift the poor state of Zoukumor Primary School, Ojobo for the people.

According to the open letter reads;

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE HONORABLE MEMBER REPRESENTING BURUTU SOUTH CONSTITUENCY  IN DELTA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY. HON. EKPOTUAYERIN EBIPADE PULLAH.

Sir,

It is my heartfelt message to you, been as the son of Ojobo Federated Community and the honorable member in the State House, my question here is, is it sweet for you to seen your primary school in all social media crying, who to renovate for the people?  While you're in the State House and your community primary school is suffering of who to do the renovation. I saw you as a good man when you was the Chairman of Ojobo Federated Community. Why so given deaf ears to the outcries?

I am Timipre Ndoni, son of the soil Ojobo Federated Community and I hereby urged you to use your good office to look into the situation of Zoukumor Primary School to a standard level.

By doing this will help you to grow further in your political career.  Nobody will do something reasonable for you when you're there, rather they'll only support and advice you negative words and later they will put blame on you.

Sir, please use your initiative to work on the school to standard, it is a pity that an oil producing Community like Ojobo Primary School is in this dilapidated situation. It is a slap to an outstanding leader like you.

I therefore, call on you to do the needful by using your good office to foster good home to your people. You can also use the annual budget to renovate the Zoukumor Primary School, here the cries in the social media concerning the renovation of Zoukumor Primary School and have pity on the people you represent.

Thanks and remain blessed.

Yours Sincerely,
Timipre Ndoni
Concerned Citizen,
Ojobo Community.

COVID-19: Egbema Youth Leader, Comr. Olokpa Salutes Alhaji Omoko As He Donates 10Million Cash For Opuama Bloc Communities And lndigenes ln Diaspora For Relief Materials

COVID-19: Egbema Youth Leader, Comr. Olokpa Salutes Alhaji Omoko As He Donates 10Million Cash For Opuama Bloc Communities And  lndigenes ln Diaspora For Relief Materials

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ A youth leader from Opuama Community in Egbema Kingdom, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, Comrade. John Olokpa has Lauded the kind gesture of High Chief. Alhaji Emmanuel Omoko as he benevolently donates the sum of Ten Million Naira (#10,000 000 00) cash for Opuama indigenes in Diaspora, as well as its Bloc Communities in Egbema Kingdom, in order to alleviate the current hardship as result of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic outbreak all over the world.

Chief. Alhaji Omoko, who is the Bolowei 1 of Egbema Kingdom and the President General Opuama Welfare Association made the huge donation yesterday 27th March, 2020 at Sapele Delta State, in line with the federal government of Nigeria appeal to private individuals and philanthropists to support government in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

Our source stated that the money was distributed yesterday to Opuama and its Bloc Communities, as well as Egbema indigenes residents in Sapele, Lagos, warri, Benin, Portharcourt, Asaba, Yenagoa and others across the country.

According to Comrade Olokpa, said Chief. Alhaji Omoko is a renowned  Sapele based Opuama born philanthropist who has touched so many lives over the years both in ljaw, Urhobo and ltsekiri nations in Delta State and beyond.

" He single handedly used his hard earned money to build houses for people, especially the needy in our society. Over one thousand five hundred youths, including elderly men and women are on his monthly stipend payroll.

His recent donation of ten million naira for communities in Egbema Kingdom is highly commendable. If we can have two or more persons like Alhaji, Egbema Kingdom in Warri North would have experienced massive transformation in terms of human capital development and infrastructure.

I want to use this medium called on other wealthy men in Warri North to emulate Alhaji Omoko philanthropic kind gesture, so as to make life easy and meaningful to the masses, especially during this trying time of the Coronavirus pandemic, Comr. Olokpa stated."

COVID-19: IPDI, Ozobo Decries Hike In Food Products In Delta, Condemns Market Women Increase Of Food Price, Calls On Gov. Okowa Immediate Intervention

COVID-19: IPDI, Ozobo Decries Hike In Food Products In Delta, Condemns Market Women Increase Of Food Price, Calls On Gov. Okowa Immediate Intervention

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI, has said that the order for restriction of movement handed down by his excellency Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa had caused unnecessary panic and sudden rise of commodities in the state.

Addressing the press, the group national president comrade Ozobo Austin noted that Gov. Okowa should had made preparations for the aftermath of such inimical policy before issuing it, and that the order was made to punished poor people in the state whose livelihood depends on daily hustling.

The group added that the sit at home order or closed down of commercial activities would greatly affect low income earners as food products get increased uncontrollably and that the government should make provisions for low income earners or resort to other appropriate means of stopping the spread of the COVID19.

The group stressed that the inability of Gov. Okowa to provide market women with nose masks,  sanitizers and hand gloves show that he does not care for the citizens in the state.

"You can not punish innocent people in the name of fighting the spread of coronavirus pandemic disease when you have not provided punishment for those who brought the covid19 to the country. Garri which is the most common commodity in the state, a basket is now sole #1500 from #700. Rice at #2500 and Beans at #1000 from #550 and more.  You can't restrict commercial activities without an appropriate measures to tackle the aftermath effects. Such amounts to a plot to punish the citizenry unnecessarily" the group lamented.

The activist said restricting movement of people whose livelihood depends on daily hustling would be inimical as it would amounts to hunger, crime and more suffering in the state.

The group equally frowned at politicians in the state for not making any preparation for his or her constituents despite the life threatening coronavirus pandemic continued to ravaged economic lives of the people.

The right activist also blamed market women for increasing price of food stuffs unnecessarily, hearing the order of movement restriction and that they should wore human face and reverse to normal price of commodities.

The group called on Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa to make preparations to ease the effects of closed down of commercial activities to avoid increase in hardship and other social vices in the state.

Be Honest In The Fight Against COVID-19 Pandemic In The Country, A Renowned Global Human Rights Activist, Amb. Mulade Charges Nigerian Fed. Govt And 36 State Governors

Be Honest In The Fight Against COVID-19 Pandemic In The Country, A Renowned Global Human Rights Activist, Amb. Mulade Charges Nigerian Fed. Govt And 36 State Governors


.....Says It Should Not Be Used As Conduit Pipe To Loot The Nation's Treasury

Francis Tayor

Abuja_____ A human rights activist, Comrade Mulade Sheriff has charged Federal Government, the 36 State Governors and the FCT Minister not to politicize the fight against the deadly global pandemic, COVID-19, so as to save Nigerians from death.

Comrade Mulade, the National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, (CEPEJ), gave the charge in Abuja while speaking with journalists and expressed sadness over the way and manner the deadly disease was being handled in Nigeria without adequate health equipment, personnel and public enlightenment on the need for Nigerians to adhere strictly to WHO guidelines.

Although he commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the Ministries of Health and Information, State Governors, as well as NCDC for taking bold steps to lock down the States, restricting human movement through daily media announcements, the CEPEJ boss however urged the authorities not to politicize the curbing of the killer virus from spreading in Nigeria.

Comrade Mulade urged the Federal Government and the Governors to be honest, sincere, proactive and provide palliative measures without any political undertone, as the pandemic is purely a health issue and not party politics. He advised all to shun all political and religious differences and support President Muhammadu Buhari to adopt collective efforts to save Nigerians.

He called on Mr President and all relevant authorities to monitor those saddled with the responsibility to midwife the process of curbing the spread of the virus, and urged the Governors, Ministries, Departments and Agencies not to see the outbreak of COVID-19 as a conduit pipe to drain the Nation's Treasury.

He noted that as the Governors and political office holders make adequate provisions for their family members and political aides in case of any eventuality in Government houses, plans should also be made to provide and supply electricity, food, water, sanitizers and other essential items to the poor electorate who voted them into power.

The human rights activist expressed worry that if the pandemic persists, many Nigerians might die of CORONA hunger and starvation at home, alleging that the Governors appear more concerned about themselves than the citizenry, issuing political statements to deceive the public, allocating and sharing State funds with reckless abandon.

COVID-19: Ogbe-Ijoh Community Cries Out To Gov. Okowa To Open Ogbe-Ijoh General Hospital For Isolation Centre, Friday Igbegbe Begs

COVID-19: Ogbe-Ijoh Community Cries Out To Gov. Okowa To Open Ogbe-Ijoh General Hospital For Isolation Centre, Friday Igbegbe Begs

Francis Tayor

Warri______ The people of Ogbe-ljoh Warri Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State has cried out to the executive governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa to as a matter of urgency  reopen the over long closed down Ogbe-ljoh Community general hospital for lsolation center in order to meet the health challenges of the people, especially the rise of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The appeal became necessary now that there is urgent need to health services by the people as result of the outbreak of the COVID-19 disease.

Speaking on behalf of the people, a community leader and a very respected Chief, Alaowei Friday Igbegbe, said Ogbe-Ijoh General hospital was closed down due to the outbreak of Ogbe-Ijoh and Aladja community crisis. But now that the crisis is over, there is urgent need for the reopening of the hospital in order to meet the health challenges of the people.

" lf the Local Government Council health center Nurses and Doctors can resume work, there is no excuse for the general hospital Doctors and Nurses to come to work. They cannot stay at home receiving monthly salary without working. We need their health services now that the deadly Coronavirus is all over the world.

Ogbe-Ijoh community need the hospital to quarantine suspected cases of the COVID-19 in order to protect her citizens from contacting the disease from affected persons. Therefore, l am calling on His Excellency, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa and the Executive Chairman of Warri South-West LGA, Hon. Duke Tuoyo to immediately called on the Doctors, Nurses and staff of the general hospital to resume work, Chief. Igbegbe stated."

Igbegbe Congratulates Chief. Izoukumor As He Emerges Chairman PDP Warri South-West LGA, Describes Him As A Dedicated Politician

Igbegbe Congratulates Chief. Izoukumor As He Emerges Chairman PDP Warri South-West LGA, Describes Him As A Dedicated Politician

Francis Tayor

Warri____ A foremost Niger Delta freedom fighter cum politician and a Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Alaowei Friday Igbegbe has congratulated Chief. Favour lzoukumor on his emergence as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South-West LGA, Delta State, describing him as a dedicated politician who is always committed to whatever he does for the development of his people at the local government in particular, and the state at large.

Chief. Igbegbe made the statement today 26th March, 2020 at Ogbe-ljoh Warri Kingdom, exonerated Izoukumor as a brother, friend, a political bigwig, a technocrat and one time Commissioner for DESOPADEC who have contributed immensely for the growth of PDP in Warri South-West LGA and Delta State.

According to lgbegbe, said; " Chief. Izoukumor is a dedicated politician who is always committed to carry out whatever assignment is given. He had contributed so much for the development of his people at the local government as well as Delta State at large.

His emergence as PDP Chairman in Warri South-West LGA is well deserved and we believe he will deliver. Alaowei lgbegbe added that Chief lzoukumor at same time worked very hard to ensure that PDP remains the best political party in Delta State".

He however, pray God to give lzoukumor the wisdom to pilot the affairs of our great party to an enviable height.

COVID-19: Centre For Peace And Environment Justice, CEPEJ Donates Disinfectants To Nigerian Police, Osubi, Ugolo Communities In Abuja And Delta State To Curb Spread Of The Virus

COVID-19: Centre For Peace And Environment Justice, CEPEJ Donates Disinfectants To Nigerian Police, Osubi, Ugolo Communities In Abuja And Delta State To Curb Spread Of The Virus

Francis Tayor


Abuja_____ A frontline Nigeria-based non-governmental organisation, NGO, the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ has embarked on a massive sensitization campaign to support Government's efforts in preventing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in parts of Nigeria, Abuja FCT and Delta State in particular.

The National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade Mulade Sheriff who led the sensitization exercise in Abuja, said the NGO carried out the activities to complement Government's efforts at all levels to educate and enlighten Nigerians on the need for stringent measures to curb the spread of the deadly virus.

He said on Wednesday 25th March, 2020, the Warri Office of CEPEJ visited communities, health centers and market places to educate the people on the importance of personal hygiene, social distancing and proper medical care, especially if they have symptoms such as fever, cough and difficulty in breathing.

The NGO's medical team advised communities to always obey directives from the Government, Ministries of Health and Information, as well as the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), to prevent the spread of the killer virus, through regular washing of hands   for at least twenty seconds with soap and running water, cough and sneeze into tissue papers or on their sleeves.

They were also advised to always clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and used objects, and avoid handshakes, hugging, touching of eyes, nose or mouth for now.

On social distancing and symptoms of sickness, the NGO told the people to avoid crowded places or large gatherings, keep a distance of two meters with anyone sneezing or coughing, limit contact with sick people, stay at home or seek medical assistance when sick, and avoid self medication.

CEPEJ also distributed hand washing buckets, soap, hand sanitizers, disinfectants, hand gloves, nose masks and instruction guides on good hygiene, while sensitizing them on the best practices that would protect them, their families and their communities from contracting and spreading the pandemic in Delta State and Nigeria in general.

The places visited by the Warri Office of CEPEJ were Osubi community market and its Health Centre, as well as Ugulo community, all in Okpe LGA of Delta State. The people expressed their gratitude to the NGO for showing concern for the health of the two Okpe communities

While receiving the items, the Patron/Director of Osubi Health Centre, Mrs Ajuzieugo Eseoghene commended CEPEJ for the gesture, and promised to put the items into judicious use. In the same vein, residents of Osubi community applauded CEPEJ for the initiative, while traders at the Osubi market hailed the NGO for the kind gesture.

For his part, a renowned traditional Chief of Okpe Kingdom and a leader in Ugolo community, Chief Sydoff Ememor, stated with joy that the items donated by CEPEJ would go a long way in keeping the people safe from the killer virus. He promised that the items would be strategically placed in the community for maximum benefits to the people, stressing that CEPEJ has demonstrated its genuine interest in the  development of the community through its health interventionist programmes.

Other speakers including the Community Youth Leader, Mr ThankGod Adodeh, its Woman Leader, Madam Lady Emene and Leader of Thought, Mr. Kimo Adodeh, all promised to make judicious use of the items to keep the people safe. They also thanked CEPEJ for the philanthropic gesture and pledged to support the NGO's activities at all times.

Meanwhile, ASP A.A. Azemba who received the same items on behalf of Nigeria Police at Life Camp Division, Abuja, FCT, expressed gratitude to CEPEJ for the gesture and promised that the Police Force would use them for the prevention of COVID-19 in the area.

The CEPEJ team later trained the people on how to make use of the items and effectively wash their hands to prevent them from contracting the virus.

COVID-19 Outbreak: CEPEJ Boss Mulade Commends President Buhari And Federal Government’s Quick Response On Pandemic

COVID-19 Outbreak: CEPEJ Boss Mulade Commends President Buhari And Federal Government’s Quick Response On Pandemic

Francis Tayor

The National Coordinator, Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the Federal Government of Nigeria for its pro-activeness towards curbing the spread of COVID-19 by shutting down all International Flights.

He also thanked the President for some other steps taken through the activities of the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), the reduction in pump price of premium spirit, (Petrol), done to ensure that the fight against COVID-19 is maintained and sustained.

He stated that the Federal Ministry of Health and all relevant bodies for the control and treatments of Coronavirus have been doing great jobs especially in the area of sensitizing the public and giving out adequate warnings and instructions.

He commended the Nigeria media and the Information Ministry for doing much in information dissemination. Mulade Sheriff noted that Nigerians should continue to seek for information from the Federal Government and all relevant bodies as information is key and a veritable tool in the fight against coronavirus.

He said, “ So far the President, His Excellency Mohammadu Buhari has proven to be very concerned, this can be seen from the actions and steps taken by the Federal Government to avoid the further spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), by shutting down international flights and restricting others from coming into the country as one of the best steps to reduce the spread.

He suggested that, the land borders should also be closed down and adequately policed to avoid the the influx of people who have gotten the virus from some neighbouring countries through the land borders.

Speaking further, on CEPEJ adherence to the Federal Government and Ministry of Health directives on reducing the spread of the virus within the Nation, he enthused that “CEPEJ is strictly complying by shutting down all its offices in Delta, Lagos, Kano, Niger States and FCT, Abuja.

Comrade Mulade Sheriff is of the view that all well meaning Nigerians should join in this onerous task of warding off the very dreaded Coronavirus that has the capacity to wipe the human race if not well tackled. Presently, the pandemic threatens the economic stability of nations across the world.

He said that CEPEJ is embarking on sensitisation campaign to Compliment Government’s efforts, while also assisting in the provision of hand-wash buckets with disinfectants, hand sanitizers to curtail and reduce the spread, a measure to support government institutions particularly Nigeria Divisional Police Station at Life Camp and Road Safety offices in FCT, Abuja and Health centres at Osubi and Ugolo communities both in Delta State.

The National Coordinator has also formally announced the closing down of all its operations in all the Centre’s offices starting from Wednesday, the 25th of March 2020. No visitors are to be entertained pending when the spread of COVID-19 is properly managed. The CEPEJ offices include, the Head Office in Warri, Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Minna and Escravos riverine office, meanwhile, all staff are to work from home.
He also commended the staff for their quick response to duties and living by instructions and directives of Federal Government and Ministry of Health while encouraging them not to forget maintaining proper hygiene off the office environment.

Chief Pereama Freetown To Be Officially Crowned Izon Numu-Pere ll On Wednesday 25th At Yenagoa, Invites The General Public

Chief Pereama Freetown To Be Officially Crowned Izon Numu-Pere ll On Wednesday 25th At Yenagoa, Invites The General Public

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa_____ All is now set for the most talk about and anticipated  event in ljaw nation as Chief. Pereama Freetown popularly known as the Great Grandmaster to be crowned as the lzon Numu-Pere ll.

The historic day is taken place on Wednesday 25th March, 2020 at Latik Hotels, along INEC road Kpasian Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. According to King. Pius Fezana, " said over forty eight (48) band leaders of lzon owigiri musicians would be live there to perform at the crowning ceremony. Ijaw music kingship is not about politics but credibility and Chief. Pereama Freetown is credible as well as the chosen one, King. Fezana asserted. "

In his words, Chief. Pereama said; " I am inviting all my friends, well wishers and ljaw nation to witness this August event. The long awaited prophecy of Late. King Robert Ebizimo in the 80s about my crowning as lzon Numu-Pere ll has finally come. This is not my power neither my making but by the special grace of God. The venue remains the same, Latik Hotels Kpasian Yenagoa. Come one, come all, Chief. Pereama stated. "

However, the count down continues for the much anticipated coronation ceremony of Izon numupere II, as stakeholders from Ondo state to Akwa-lbom (Arogbo to Obolo), Abuja, Lagos and all the major cities in Nigeria is bracing up for the August event.

It is clearly seen that Latik Hotel Yenagoa shall be filled to the brim as Ijaw elders, traditional rulers and youths from across the globe show interest in the event.

The enthusiasm was also seen by callers from a call in radio program where Chief Pereama Freetown Jp, King Pius Fezena Alabini and others were all in the studio to respond to questions from the callers, 95% of whom highly welcome the development and would grace the occasion. They listed several qualities of Chief Pereama Freetown Jp which they believe makes him deserving for such position.

The fans clubs are not left out as they are all ready to flood Yenagoa to celebrate with the Great Grand Master as he is fondly called.

Amb. Mulade Salutes Delta Assembly Members On Vote Of Confidence Passed On Oborevwori, House Leadership, Charges Them On Speedy Passage Of CADA Bill Into Law

Amb. Mulade Salutes Delta Assembly Members On Vote Of Confidence Passed On Oborevwori, House Leadership, Charges Them On Speedy Passage Of CADA Bill Into Law

Francis Tayor

The National Coordinator and CEO of Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, has hailed the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on the Vote of Confidence passed on him and leadership of the House by lawmakers for his leadership role in the 7th Assembly on Tuesday 17th March, 2020.

Commending the Speaker for his outstanding leadership role in the State House of Assembly, Comrade Sheriff said “Hon. Oborevwori posseses good leadership qualities that has enabled him managed the entire lawmakers irrespective of their Parties. He does not discriminate or look down on anyone, he gives equal right and opportunity to everyone".
He added that "his simplicity, humility and understanding are unmatched due to his dealings and warm relationship with other lawmakers and it takes only an understanding and humble speaker with extraordinary qualities to attract such massive number of lawmakers to pass vote of confidence on the leadership of the House. This is a clear indication that his leadership is welcomed by all Lawmakers and Deltans in general.”

He also said that Rt Hon. Oborevwori is a man of the people whose basic interest is to improve and develop the lives of the youths, women and children of the grassroots, and encourages all Deltans to emulate his good sense of humour and leadership qualities.

On the importance of synergy between the State Governor and House of Assembly, Comrade Mulade stated that for Governors to achieve their campaign goals and visions, there must be good synergy or working relationship between the Governor and lawmakers especially the speaker.

" I must commend the cordial relationship between the Legislature and the Executive in Delta State and this is why the best has been achieved for the State in terms of infrastructural, human and capital development. The Speaker of the Delta State House has achieved a lot since he came on board. The Assembly Complex has been transformed and welfare of the staff given priority and I was not surprised when a vote of confidence was passed on the Speaker and leadership of the House by lawmakers in the state", he said.

Comrade Mulade implored the Speaker not to relent in his good works and leadership of the House.

While thanking the lawmakers for finding it worthy to have observed the excellent role of the speaker and passing a vote of confidence on him and leadership of the House, he charged the Speaker and the entire State legislators to consider the passage of the Coastal Areas Development Agency, (CADA) bill that is before the House of Assembly as a matter of urgent public importance, saying that the establishment of CADA will bring succour, real development and compliment government developmental plans to those dwelling in the coastal region of the State that are neglected.

Comrade Mulade also said that Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, a leading NGO in Delta State is ready to collaborate with the Speaker and State House of Assembly on all areas of State development, enacting and implementation of laws that will improve the well-being of the people.

Environment Degradation: Show More Concern About The Niger Delta Environment And Not The Crude Oil, Amb. Mulade Tells Federal Govt, IOCs

Environment Degradation:
Show More Concern About The Niger Delta Environment And Not The Crude Oil, Amb. Mulade Tells Federal Govt, IOCs

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ A Niger Delta Environmentalist, Comrade Sheriff Mulade has expressed worry about the environment in the oil-rich Niger Delta Region and said urgent steps must be taken to address it now.

In a chat with newsmen at the weekend in Warri, Delta State, the human rights activist who described the environment as the future and heritage of the people, alleged that activities of Multinational oil companies operating in the region have destroyed the ecosystem.

He said that; "The environment is our future, is our pride and heritage. Am deeply concerned about the way and manner our environment has been destroyed by the Multinational oil companies. Our traditional fishing and farming have been destroyed and unfortunately, government at all levels are paying lips service to the environment inspite of the calls by the people of the region for something drastic to be done about the polluted environment".

"The Federal Government has shown to the people of the oil-rich Niger Delta that they are not concerned about the region, but only interested in the oil wealth coming from the region. It is the responsibility of the government to protect the environment. The Multinational oil companies are dictating to the government about the region", he said.

The Environmentalist appealed to the Federal Government to be more concerned about the environment rather than the crude oil so as to save the environment in the region, the statement.

Bayelsa State Governor, Sen. Douye Diri Visits President Buhari At Abuja, Promises To Work With Him On Security And Peace In Nigeria

Bayelsa State Governor, Sen. Douye Diri Visits President Buhari At Abuja, Promises To Work With Him On Security And Peace In Nigeria

Francis Tayor

Abuja_____ The President Federal Republic of Nigeria, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), and the Governor of Bayelsa State, Sen. Diri Douye, have just held a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The brief meeting ended about 1.39pm today Tuesday Wednesday 17th March, 2020.

Douye, who said Buhari received him as “one of his sons”, explained that he went to Aso Rock to greet the President and formally present himself to him as the father of the nation.

He told State House Correspondents after the meeting that the visit was the first time he did so formally since his inauguration on February 14th as the governor of Bayelsa state.

The governor spoke further, “Since my inauguration, this is the first time I have come to see Mr President and to promise to work with the Federal Government for the security and peace of the nation.

“He received me as one of his sons. He went ahead to advise me and to say that he is happy that I came and that he is happy with the way I started.

“He said he read about all the statements I have made on security. Bayelsa is critical to peace in the country. If there is security there, then the whole country is at peace.”

Recalled that Douye became the governor of the state following the February 13th judgment of the Supreme Court, which sacked the All Progressives Congress Governor-elect, Mr David Lyon, just 24 hours to his inauguration at the popular Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.

Niger Delta Youth Leader, Kagbala Charges President Buhari To Consult Among Civil Society leaders in Delta To Appoint Next Amnesty Programme Coordinator

Niger Delta Youth Leader, Kagbala Charges President Buhari To Consult Among Civil Society leaders in Delta To Appoint Next Amnesty Programme Coordinator

Francis Tayor

Recently, there have been so much imbroglio and immodest lobbying by desperate power seekers and brokers, showing uncontrolled covetousness for the position of the Presidential Amnesty Programme coordinator.

Some ill intentioned government appointees, ministers, senators and even traditional rulers are projecting and recommending their favourite candidate thereby posing a monumental threat to the sustainability of the amnesty programme.

The Presidency should get it right before selfish interest plunges the already precarious and delicate nature of the Niger Delta region into another circumspectrum of crises. Building a sustainable peace presupposes a need for continuous education, orientation and awareness for repentant militants.

As regards appointing a new Amnesty Programme Coordinator, President Muhammadu Buhari must get it right by consulting among civil society groups who advocated for a peaceful Niger Delta during the rise of arms agitation  and militancy in the Delta creeks.

The Niger Delta region of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was embroiled in a protracted crisis that was hinged on infrastructural deprivation of the people  by the Federal Government.

The civil society groups x-rayed the dynamics and effects of their engagement in such struggles after giving consideration to substantive ethnic, regional and communal demands. The civil society groups advocated for peace in the region and originated the idea that has become the Amnesty programme.

Under the peace-building programme, the Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) implemented projects that promotes information sharing, collaboration, and synergy among peace-building actors in the region.

Another civil society group, Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) initiated programmes that resulted to peace-building programmes and also provided support to the  economic development of the Niger Delta. They identified the root causes of conflicts in the region and tailored their advocacy towards the direction of continuous orientation.

Sadly, those who condemned violence and militancy in the creek were persecuted; some were kidnapped and killed by those who benefited from the violence that once bedeviled the region. Posterity will not let the hard works of these noble minded leaders to be in vain.

After decade of the creation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, comes numerous petitions and allegations of corruption which have been a systemic problem with the programme. The Federal Government's resolve to address the root causes of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta that led to the arm agitations which necessitated the amnesty programme seem not to have attained its objectives.

Leaders and originators of non-violence education that gave rise to the Amnesty were neglected from inception of the  presidential Amnesty Programme introduced by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2009.

The Federal Government made a terrible error of monetising the armnesty programme and reaped the sad consequences of ignoring the civil society leaders. Sadly, the programme became increasingly difficult for the Nigerian Government to fund. For instance, in May 2015, the allowance payments for the enrolled ex-militants had to be suspended. This made matters worse and reignited tensions as a large number of ex-militants are unemployed and highly dependent on the monthly allowances.

This progression in error must not continue. President Buhari should consult among the civil society groups and peace advocates from Delta state where the purpose of the amnesty programme emanated from and possibly appoint a coordinator for the amnesty programme from a civil society group.

Though the civil society groups are few, they have the sagacity to initiate programmes that will tackle wide socioeconomic grievances bordering on  developmental deficit in local oil communities, environmental pollution and the exclusion of local communities from the governance of oil production in the Niger Delta region.

Security: Ezekiel Salutes Gov. Okowa On The Successful Establishment Of 63 Brigade Asaba, Commends The Head Of Command, Brig Gen.l.M. Jallo For A Job Well done

Security: Ezekiel Salutes Gov. Okowa On The Successful Establishment Of 63 Brigade Asaba, Commends The Head Of Command, Brig Gen.l.M. Jallo For A Job Well done

Francis Tayor

Asaba_____ The Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Delta State on Security Matters, Comrade Ezekiel Daniel has felicitated with Brigadier General I.M. JALLO on the occasion of the successful setting up of 63 Brigade Command in Asaba, Delta State Capital.

According to Ezekiel, said;  "l strongly believe that with the establishment of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army will help in curbing some security challenges facing our dear state. I must equally use this opportunity to say a big thank you to my boss and our amiable Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for given both financial and moral support for this command to see the light of the day. My reason for visitation today is to seek for a synergy between your command and my office for the stronger Delta Agenda of His Excellency to be more impactful in the lives of Deltans .

Comr. Daniel Ezekiel  equally urged 63 Command Asaba Delta state to be more drastic and proactive in tackling killer herdsmen who goes about slaughtering innocent people in their homes and farm land in the state".

In his reaction, the  Brigadier General I.M. JALLO thank comrade Ezekiel Daniel for deeming it fit to visit the command and promised to work with him for the well being of the state. He equally made it known that criminal elements hiding under herdsmen to commit all manners of atrocities shall meet their waterloo soon. He therefore, wished the pragmatic SSA a safe journey back to his base, the statement adds.

Amb. Mulade Congratulates Otuaro As He Bags Niger Delta Peace Ambassador Award, Describes Him A Man Of Great Strides And Pace Setter

Amb. Mulade Congratulates Otuaro As He Bags Niger Delta Peace Ambassador Award, Describes Him A Man Of Great Strides And Pace Setter

Francis Tayor

Warri____ A foremost leader and Peace Ambassador in the Niger-Delta, the National Coordinator of Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Comrade Sheriff Mulade has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Barr. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro on his Award by the Daily Independent Newspaper as Peace Ambassador of the Niger-Delta.

Comrade Sheriff, in his encomium mood stated that the Deputy Governor is a man of honour, great strides and of peace especially when we reflect on his contributions to peace building among the Ijaws, Urhobos and  Itsekiri's in Delta State, he noted that his thirst for peace is also visible in the existing peace in Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, Rivers State, Niger-Delta and Nigeria in general.
It is remarkable to emphasize that he is the tripod of the present peace being enjoyed by the three (3) Warri LGAs.

Comrade Mulade commended the personal effort of His Excellency the Deputy Governor of Delta State Barr. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, in ensuring that peace returned to the troubled regions during the Warri crisis, according to him, "the Deputy Governor has done so much in peace building across the States of Niger-Delta and Nigeria in general, noting that during the Warri crisis some years back, he played a vital role in ensuring that the crisis ended and peace returned and has ensured till date that peace is maintained and sustained.”

Mulade called him “a true Man Of Honour, peace maker, problem solver, pace setter and intriguing is his giant strides in finding solution to problems and in the process keeping and promoting peace.”
“ I could say, this award is not just deserved, it is also delayed because he has been working for peace for a very long time"

Comrade Sheriff Mulade while attributing praises and recounting the peace building involvements by the Deputy Governor across the Niger-Delta also said, " Kingsley Otuaro is a leader that all should emulate and strive to become, because his personality and ability to solve and Manage problems is unmatched, we all know that  peace is not easy to attain, it is  expensive and difficult to acquire and sustained, so the Peace Ambassador Award to His Excellency Barr. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro by Daily Independent Newspaper is well deserved", Amb. Mulade stated.

Ijaw Matters: Don't Attack My Fellow Musicians On Social Media Because Of My Kingship Crowning Occasion, Grandmaster Pereama Freetown Charges Fans Worldwide

Ijaw Matters: Don't Attack My Fellow Musicians On Social Media Because Of My Kingship Crowning Occasion, Grandmaster Pereama Freetown Charges Fans Worldwide

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa_____ A head of the forthcoming crowning ceremony of Chief. Pereama Freetown as the ' Numou Pere 11' of ljaw Highlife Owigiri music, Grandmaster has cautioned his friends, loved ones and fans all over the world to remain calm and stop exchanging words with those against his kingship interest on the pages of social media.

Chief. Pereama gave the charge this morning at about 10: 18am through phone call with our reporter Francis Tayor, said there is nothing good in life that comes easy without opposition. Chief. Pereama stressed that if one is pursuing something valuable in life without any challenge, that means the thing is not important.

According to him, said; " We are all one and the same ljaw people. Everybody cannot be your friend neither support your opinion. If everyone love and support you, that means you are a fool. Let my music kingship matter should not prompt any of you my fans to insult other ljaw musicians that are opposed to my interest. Even in a circular Nigeria politics, the political leaders of different parties will be exchanging blow, attacking one another before and during election.

Thereafter elections and swear-in, you will see those leaders that where once fighting one another on the pages of Newspapers and national Tv will be dinning and winning together, thereby exposing the innocent followers to unnecessary risk before their opponents in the society."

" l love you so much as my fans and I don't want you to be a victim of circumstances, hence l am appealing to all of you to ignore whoever that insults me or opposes my kingship ambition on the social media. If you really love me as my fans, pls ignore them and let's make the day a very colourful one, Chief. Pereama stated."

However, it will interest the general public to note that, Grandmaster, Chief. Pereama Freetown would be crowned as king of ljaw owigiri highlife music as " Numou Pere 11" of ljaw nation, in order to occupy the vacuum space created after the demise of late Dr King. Robert Ebizimo. The date for the crowning is on the 25th March, 2020 at Latik Hotels, off Inec road, Kpansia Yenagoa Bayelsa State.

IYC : Ngbilebiri Clan Youths For Good Leadership Throws Weight Behind Comr. Telema For National President IYC

IYC : Ngbilebiri Clan Youths For Good Leadership Throws Weight Behind Comr. Telema For National President IYC 

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ As the ljaw Youth Council elections draws closer, a group under the aegis of Ngbilebiri Clan Youths For Good Leadership (NCYFGL) in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has endorsed the immediate pass Vice President of Ijaw Youth Council, Comrade Telema Koroma Pollyn for National President, stressing that Telema has done well for ljaw nation under different capacity. As former Clan Chairman as well as Vice President, he has what it takes to lead Council effectively.

Speaking to our reporter, Francis Tayor yesterday 10th March, in Kiagbodo, the headquarters of Ngbilebiri Kingdom, the leader of the group, Comrade Ebikebina Jasper, said Telema leadership antecedents prompted their support for him. He remains the best candidate and stands tall among the various aspirants vying for the President of Council.

" We have consulted widely and the chorus of the song says Telema is the right man for the job. Therefore, we called on all ljaw youths and the potential delegates from Eastern, Central and Western zone to make the right choice by voting Comrade Telema Koroma Pollyn as the next President in order to catapult council to the level, the group stated."

Delta PDP Congratulates Party Members Over Successful Peaceful Conduct Of Ward Congresses Across The State, Charges APC To Emulate PDP

Delta PDP Congratulates Party Members Over Successful Peaceful Conduct Of Ward Congresses Across The State, Charges APC To Emulate PDP

Francis Tayor

Asaba_____The Delta State PDP has congratulated its members over the peaceful, hitch-free and collectively accepted ward congresses in the State last weekend and expressed satisfaction over the large turnout of party faithful across the State on Saturday, March 7, 2020, for the very successful exercise.

This commendation was contained in a statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Delta PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, who also charged PDP members to exhibit a higher level of party unity and purpose in the forthcoming Local Government Congresses and even urged the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC in the State to emulate the PDP and embrace peaceful conduct in its electoral processes.

Dr. Osuoza said: “The Delta State PDP is very delighted with the peaceful, organized and well coordinated conduct of our ward congresses and the large turnout which heralded the exercise. This is a clear indication of our unrivaled popularity and acceptance by Deltans and it has once again consolidated our avowed philosophy that power belongs to the people, which we have continued to preach and uphold in the State.

"We heartily congratulate and commend our congress committees, stakeholders and members for their large turnout across the State and applaud them for living up to expectations, while charging our members and party faithful to be more peaceful, committed and organized with the same unity and sense of purpose in the forthcoming Local Government Congresses, urge the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, to emulate our well organized Congresses and embrace peace, whenever they decided to stop fighting amongst themselves and conduct their own congresses.

PDP! Power to the People.

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary
PDP, Delta State.

Chief. Igbegbe Congratulates Otuaro As He Bags Niger Peace Ambassador Award, Describes Him As An Icon Of Peace In Nigeria

Chief. Igbegbe Congratulates Otuaro As He Bags Niger Peace Ambassador Award, Describes Him As An Icon Of Peace In Nigeria

Francis Tayor

Warri____ A foremost Niger Delta freedom fighter and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Alaowei Friday Igbegbe has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Barr Dcn. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro on his Award as the Peace Ambassador of Niger Delta bestowed on him by the Independent Newspaper, describing Otuaro as an lcon of peace in Nigeria who led Delta state government delegation to the Creeks in 2016 to calm down the ruthless Niger Delta avengers that almost crumbled Nigeria's economy.

Chief. Igbegbe made the statement yesterday at Ogbe-ljoh Warri Kingdom, exonerated the leadership charisma of Delta state Deputy Governor Otuaro, stated that His Excellency has made ljaw nation proud for always pursuing peace in Niger Delta and Nigeria at all time.

According to him, said; "Your Excellency, you deserve this award and honour from the Independent Newspapers as Peace Ambassador of the Niger Delta.

This award is a testament that your peace building initiative over the years speaks volume for you. It is very timely for a man that has given all he has for the peace and progress of a region that was once in a volatile situation with armed struggle.

Your tour to the creeks in 2016 and engaging all stakeholders that led to the peace and security we enjoy today unfold your place as an Icon of peace in Nigeria. This is the beginning of more recognitions to come your way, Alaowei lgbegbe asserted."

Security: Alaowei Friday Igbegbe Salutes South South Governors For Proposed South-South Region Security lnitiative, Says Nigeria Is No Longer Safe For Living

Security: Alaowei Friday Igbegbe Salutes South South Governors For Proposed South-South Region Security lnitiative, Says Nigeria Is No Longer Safe For Living

Francis Tayor

Warri____ A foremost Niger Delta freedom fighter and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Alaowei Friday Igbegbe has lauded the South South Governors for taking the bold step to initiate the South South Region Security Outfit, stressing that the idea is a welcome development that is long over due.

Chief. Igbegbe in a Press Statement dated 9th March, 2020 noted that Nigeria is no longer safe due to rampant proliferation of small firearms into the country. He stressed that with the setting up of South South Region Security outfit, most of our restive youths out there would be fully engaged to secure our communities, thereby providing enabling environment for our multinational oil companies to operate peacefully.

According to Igbegbe, said; " l must commend our southern Nigeria Governors for the prompt meeting held at Asaba last week in order to provide adequate security for her citizens.

This is a right step in the right direction. Nigeria is too big to the extent that the federal government security agencies cannot meet up with the security challenges. With the introduction of state community policing, the youths of host communities will help to secure their environment from foreign invasion.

I therefore, charged our South South Governors to fasten up the process and launch the security outfit, so as to complement federal government efforts in the fight against crime in our society, Alaowei Igbegbe stated. "

Just-ln: Massive Protest Rocks Yenagoa As Delta State Timber Dealers Accuses Bayelsa State Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mike Ogbere Of Extortion With Illegal lmposition Of Tax

Just-ln: Massive Protest Rocks Yenagoa As Delta State Timber Dealers Accuses Bayelsa State Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mike Ogbere Of Extortion With Illegal lmposition Of Tax

....... Calls On lmmediate Intervention Of Gov. Okowa, Douye Diri Of Delta And Bayelsa State For Peace To Reign

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa_____ A group of able business men under the aegis of Timber Dealers Association of Nigeria, Burutu Local Government Area Chapter, Delta State, has appealed for quick intervention of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State and his Bayelsa State Counterpart, Sen. Douye Diri over what they described as massive extortion of its members along Ekeremor river by a group of persons allegedly to be fronting for the Deputy Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Micheal Ogbere.

The group in a peaceful protest stated that the appeal became necessary to avert civil unrest as there was already palpable tension in the area following the harassment and violence suffered by their members in the hands of persons said to be collecting revenue for Forest Produce for Bayelsa State government, even when they operates in the shores of Delta State.

The protesters carrying placards with different inscriptions written, “Allow us to do our legitimate business without stress and intimidation”, “We can no longer accept this illicit oppression from Ekeremor, Bayelsa state”, “Deputy Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly tell your boys to stop the illegal tax”, “Diri, Okowa, save our soul”, “Enough is Enough”, “We are peace loving Deltans, Allow us to do our business”, noted that they only pass through the Ekeremor rivers which shares natural boundary between Burutu in Delta and Ekeremor in Bayelsa State to their destinations.

The spokesperson, Mr Peres Pereotukefiye, stated “Bayelsa State Government was said to had awarded a contract to Simonado Ventures, a company owned by the Deputy Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Mr Micheal Ogbere to collect revenue on Forest Produce from Ekeremor loading point. The contract is to collect revenue from a loading point which is in the land and not to harass moving vessels in the river to offloading points. Ekeremor river shares natural boundary between Burutu in Delta and Ekeremor in Bayelsa. We are Deltans and do our business on Delta shores and not Ekeremor or Bayelsa, but ply the river to our destinations. We see no reason for the Bayelsa Deputy Speaker to be using Bayelsa government as a tool to perpetuate and foster illegal collection of tax from us through his fierce looking, arm wielding stooges”.

Continuing “the antecedents of these boys in the river is causing a lot of hardship that we can no longer condone.The boys extorts from our members over four hundred thousand naira on daily basis. For every load of between a thousand and five thousand woods, they collect thirteen to sixty five thousands naira. We are condemning the activities of these boys for breach of contract and encroachment. We therefore called on the government of Bayelsa and Delta State to intervene and nip the broad day robbery in the bud to avert civil unrest. Every relevant stakeholder should come to our rescue. The Deputy Speaker should call his stooges to order to avoid breakdown of law and order. We are peace loving Deltans who pleasures in going about our business and not to be pushed to civil unrest”.

Mr. Peres explained that the peaceful protest was to draw attention of the Bayelsa and Delta States government and other stakeholders to the threat to peace in the localities, stressing that any attempt to force them out of business they had been into over the years would be resisted.

Amb. Agediga Lauds Otuaro As He Bags Independent Newspaper Niger Delta Peace Ambassador Award Of The Year

Amb. Agediga Lauds Otuaro As He Bags Independent Newspaper Niger Delta Peace Ambassador Award Of The Year

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The Executive Director Planning, Research and statistics Desopadec, Comrade Shedrack Agediga has Congratulated the Delta State Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro on his honour by the Independent Newspaper as Peace Ambassador of the Niger Delta.

Agediga in a Press Statement dated 7th March, 2020 extol the leadership qualities of the Deputy Governor Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, stated that the His Excellency has continually protected the interest of the Niger Delta at all time.

According to him, said; "Your Excellency,  you deserve this rare honour from the Independent Newspapers as Peace Ambassador of the Niger Delta.

This award is very auspicious, timely and befitting for a man that has given his all for the peace and progress of a region embroiled in restiveness with armed agitation before now.

Your traversing the creeks and engaging all stakeholders that led to the peace and security we enjoy today underscores your place as an Icon of peace indeed. This is the beginning of a greater glory ahead, Amb. Agediga asserted."

PDP Ward Congress: CEO Kiagbodo Mein Voice, Godswill Mejuya Congratulates Okosuye Akpos As Chairman Elect PDP Ngbilebiri Ward 8, Describes Him As A Leader With Impeccable Character

PDP Ward Congress: CEO Kiagbodo Mein Voice, Godswill Mejuya Congratulates Okosuye Akpos As Chairman Elect PDP Ngbilebiri Ward 8, Describes Him As A Leader With Impeccable Character

Francis Tayor

Warri_____The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kiagbodo Mein Voice, Comr. Mejuya Godswill Tamaradoubra has joined other well wishers to congratulates the PDP Ngbilebiri Ward 8 Chairman elect, Mr. Okosuye Akpos on his well deserved victory as the Chairman PDP Ngbilebiri Ward 8.

The CEO, Comr. Mejuya noted that the victory of Okosuye Akpos is reassuring, as an unprecedented boost to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP as well as for the collective benefit of the people of Ngbilebiri ward 8 at large.

He described Okosuye Akpos as an outstanding leader who devotes his time, energy and resources towards the stability, growth and dominance of PDP in Ngbilebiri ward 8.

He reiterated that Okosuye Akpos is a serious minded leader, a man with impeccable character who brings to bear excellence, uniqueness, success, progress, fulfillment and takes every assignment given to him with the utmost seriousness.

Mejuya further expressed confidence that okosuye’s emergence as the Chairman of PDP Ngbilebiri ward 8 is yet another opportunity to improve the voting strength of the ward.

" On behalf of my team, l felicitates with Okosuye and prays God to grant him the wisdom and strength to excel in his assignment, Mejuya stated."

PDP Ward Congress: Prince Kelvin Perekeme Elected Chairman Ward 7 Ayakoromo, As He Commends Ward Leaders, PDP Family For Peaceful Congress

PDP Ward Congress: Prince Kelvin Perekeme Elected Chairman Ward 7 Ayakoromo, As He Commends Ward Leaders, PDP Family For Peaceful Congress

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Ward 7 Ayakoromo in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, yesterday 7th March, 2020 has elected Prince. Kelvin Perekeme as the Chairman of the Ward according to the party guidelines and directives.

Prince Kelvin who was unanimously adopted and worn the election unopposed with six votes, thank and appreciated Ward 7 PDP leaders as well as Ayakoromo PDP family for given him the opportunity to serve the party under the capacity as Chairman. He expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conduct of the Congress, noting that he will not disappoint the leaders and the entire Ward 7 PDP family for the responsibility bestowed on him.

According to him, said; " My regime as Chairman of our great party Ward 7 will witness tremendous change and greater development. I will operate a collective responsibility whereby everybody's opinion will be respected. I want to assure my leaders that l will remain loyal and work harder for the progress of the party. My regime will carry everybody along, that is, 'you chop l chop government'. All l need is your cooperation and support, Prince Kelvin Perekeme noted."

However, the official inauguration and swear- in ceremony will take place on 21st March, 2020 at PDP Secretariat, Burutu Local Government headquarters, Burutu lsland. Thereafter, reception at Ward 7 headquarters, Ayakoromo Federated Community, Ayakoromo, the statement adds.

Meanwhile, he was elected alongside other sixteen officials. Among them are;

1. Chairman- Kelvin Perekeme
2. Vice Chairman- Alex Orounane
3. Secretary- Miens Brialade
4. Woman Leader- Doris Ogboye
5. Youth Leader- Ebizimo Tamani
6. Ass. Sec- David Yeidi
7. Organising Sec- Timi Yingomone
8. Treasurer- Maxwell Eteimene
9. Publicity Sec- Charlse Oyinbi Onduku
10. Legal Adviser- Barr. Wenebokefe Obiri
11. Auditor- Ebikeme Obosu Pere
12. Financial Sec- lsaac Ozobo
13. Ayafou Oweikeyor- Ex-officio
14. Kudubu Brisibe- Ex-officio
15. Ebiarede Kitua- Ex-officio
16. Rose Ogbolakumo- Ex-officio
17. Field Eyenanaotu- Ex-officio and the three Ad-hoc delegates as follows:
1. Oweizide Eneyezitua
2. Tukpe.N.Oroso and
3. Chief.C.C.Apiakise respectively.