Prominent Itsekiri leaders have strongly condemned what they describe as a “campaign of misinformation and character assassination” by the Sapele Okpe Community regarding the ownership of lands hosting Seplat Energy’s operations in Delta State.

At the heart of the controversy are the communities of Abigborodo, Obotie, and Ugbekoko, which assert that they are the rightful host communities of Seplat Energy, accusing Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu of making false claims to the land.

In a strongly worded statement issued by Hon. Misan Ukubeyinje, ESQ, and Mr. Victor Atseponu, the leaders accused Seplat of colluding with the Sapele Okpe Community to undermine legitimate Itsekiri claims. They alleged that Seplat deliberately avoided an investigation visit to cover up its alliance with Sapele Okpe.

“Seplat Energy, in collaboration with the Sapele Okpe Community, attempted to manipulate the situation by spreading false intelligence reports about potential violence, hoping to derail the investigation. When that failed, they avoided the joint visit entirely,” the statement read.

Governor Oborevwori Urged to Ignore “Baseless” Sapele Okpe Claims

The Itsekiri leaders have urged Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to disregard what they call the “false cries” of the Sapele Okpe Community, reaffirming his role as a father to all Deltans.

They also condemned the calls for the removal of Chief Edwin Uzor, the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, calling it a ploy to intimidate the investigation panel.

“We are prepared for any further inspections, as our land, waters, and proximity to Seplat operations remain unchanged. The facts will remain the same, rain or shine,” they added.

Seplat Accused of Undermining Host Communities

The leadership of Ugbekoko Community also condemned Seplat’s alleged bias, insisting that the company’s flow stations, jetty, wellheads, and pipelines are located on Ugbekoko land.

“Seplat has sided with Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu to deny our rightful benefits. Their attempt to rewrite history will be resisted within the confines of the law,” said Henry Mabamue, Chairman of Ugbekoko Community Management Committee.

The Obotie Community also rejected the claims of the Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu communities, citing a 1925 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed Obotie’s ownership of the land.

“Sapele Okpe’s claims are nothing but historical distortions and cheap blackmail. They seek to disrupt a peaceful resolution process for their own gain,” their statement read.

Communities Vow to Resist “Illegal Incursion”

The Itsekiri leaders declared their intention to resist any attempt to usurp their land rights by Seplat or the Sapele Okpe Community, vowing to protect their communities legally.

They also accused Chief Onoriode Temiagin and Azan Friday of peddling lies, inciting tensions, and making baseless accusations against respected figures, including the Alema of Warri, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan.

“Seplat must stop its divide-and-rule tactics. The government must ensure justice prevails,” the statement concluded.

The dispute over host community rights continues to escalate, as all parties await the outcome of the state-led investigation into Seplat’s land operations in Delta State.

The Executive Chairman of Delta State Waste Management Board (DSWMB), Hon. Matthew Mofe Edema has read the riot act to PSP operators, during a crucial meeting he held with them today, directing the operators to go back to their zones and do the right things or risk being stripped of their mandate to operate in such areas.

The Executive Chairman said the renewed directive became necessary to keep the PSPs up and doing and ensuring that bad eggs are gotten rid of.

Member North, Hon. Cosmas Igbenije on his part, said there will be more realistic enforcement as the Board partners with the Local Government Councils.

The PSPs Chairman in Asaba, Pastor Samuel Osuere promised to make his members abide by the resolutions of the meeting.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Media, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has described the Governor of the Year Award conferred on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by ThisDay/Arise TV as a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering commitment to transforming Delta State. According to Ikeogwu, the award is a testament to the monumental strides the governor has made in governance, with the world taking notice of his impactful leadership.

In a congratulatory message made available to newsmen, Ikeogwu, a two-time Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity for Governor Oborevwori to lead at this critical point in the state’s history. He noted that the governor has silenced critics through the execution of numerous transformative programs and projects aimed at improving the lives of Deltans.

“Your Excellency, I join your countless supporters to celebrate this laudable award bestowed upon you as Governor of the Year. That this recognition comes from a reputable organization like ThisDay/Arise TV makes it even more remarkable. Your dedication to transforming our state is evident, and the world has taken notice,” Ikeogwu remarked.

Highlighting the governor’s achievements within his twenty months in office, Ikeogwu emphasized the widespread developmental projects that have touched every part of the state. “Your Excellency, your actions have left no one in doubt about your commitment to fulfilling your campaign promises. The world is witnessing your remarkable efforts to change the landscape of our dear state,” he added.

He also called on Deltans to continue supporting the governor, assuring them that Governor Oborevwori remains steadfast in his mission to deliver on his promises. Ikeogwu commended media practitioners in Delta State and beyond for their relentless efforts in amplifying the governor’s achievements, urging them to maintain their commitment to showcasing the administration’s progress.

“This award is not just a recognition of Governor Oborevwori’s accomplishments; it is a call to action for us all to support his vision for Delta State. Congratulations, Your Excellency. The world is watching, and Deltans are proud,” Ikeogwu concluded.

Living true to his traditional title of Odoziani of Akwukwu-Igbo kingdom which simply means “An Agent of Peace and Development”, Chief Nelson Ndubuisi Agbamuche, believed in the adage that says “A rising tide lifts all boats”. Meaning that a community with supportive and generous people, everyone benefits and naturally will experience unity, peace and progress.

Over the years, Chief Agbamuche has remained unwavering in his dogged determination to break the shackles of poverty that have constrained so many in our community and other communities in Anioma nation, through its periodic economic empower programmes and infrastructural deployment for the development of Akwukwu-Igbo and environs.

No doubt, his journey has been one of purpose and perseverance, driven by a deep understanding of the struggles faced by the underserved and with a burning passion to create a better future for all. He has empowered many youths and assisted my adults in Akwukwu-Igbo through disbursements of funds for small and medium scale business enterprises, and gifting of cars and motorcycles to youths for their socio-economic advancements. He has also facilitated job employments for Akwukwu-Igbo and Anioma people either in government establishments or in his many thriving businesses that range from Oil and Gas, Farming/Agro Allied Ventures to Construction and Land Developments. In the area of education, he has been in the forefront, with the provision of basic school infrastructure and payment of WAEC enrolments for hundreds of indigent students resident in Akwukwu-Igbo.

Building on the legacy of the past heroes of Akwukwu-Igbo, the Odoziani of Akwukwu-Igbo has continued to work tirelessly in his quest to provide Akwukwu-Igbo the infrastructure needed for modern living and to make it a destination for investments, habitation and tourism.

In reciprocity of his goodness, many of his admirers, friends, associates, kinsmen and fellow brothers and sisters in Akwukwu-Igbo and environs would in a few days’ time converge on Akwukwu-Igbo to celebrate not just the 50th birthday of a remarkable son of Akwukwu-Igbo and Anioma nation but to honour a man who has dedicated his life to lifting others.

Chief Nelson Ndubuisi Agbamuche, Odoziani of Akwukwu-Igbo Kingdom is more than a community leader; he is a visionary, a relentless advocate for development , and a shining light of hope for those who yearn for peaceful communal living and support for one another.

In a brief media chat with Chief Agbamuche, he averred that “He owe everything to God Almighty, who in His infinite mercy found him worthy as a tool in His Loving Hands at this time to contribute to the welfare of his people and humanity in general. I thank God for life, for good health, vitality and favour for all that I have today, and the others to come. For me, each day is a gift, an opportunity to learn, grow, explore, and contribute to better my environment and the world at large.

And in acknowledgement of the supremacy of God in my life and family, I will be having my birthday thanksgiving this Sunday, January 26 at the Church of God’s Mission, Akwukwu-Igbo. So, I’m inviting all my friends and family to join me in thanks to God Almighty”.

At 50, Chief Nelson Agbamuche stands as a testament to the values of resilience and a deep love for people. He has inspired countless individuals to dream bigger, work harder, and believe in the power of collective action. Through his support system, leadership, challenges have become opportunities, and ideas have blossomed into transformative change.

As we celebrate this golden milestone, we do so with immense gratitude for all that Chief Nelson Ndubuisi Agbamuche, has done and continues to do. We are reminded that true leadership is not about titles or recognition but about the lives you touch and the legacy you leave behind.

Here’s to 50 years of a life well-lived and to the many more to come. May this new chapter be filled with good health, joy unlimited, and the continued fulfillment of your dreams.

Happy 50th Birthday!

In a sharp critique of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, Director of Communications for Senator Ned Nwoko, the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has described the once-dominant political party as a “lifeless carcass.”

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, January 22, 2025, in Asaba, the Delta State capital, Okolugbo did not hold back in highlighting the party’s perceived failures. She accused the PDP of losing touch with its foundational principles and the Nigerian people, reflecting growing dissatisfaction among both prominent members and the public.

In her words:
**“What you think you are carrying, and you think is a structure for PDP, is a carcass. Sooner or later, it will be evident that it’s a carcass. Is there any time you go into an uncompleted building and feel like it’s a mansion?

“It’s a duplex, but it is a carcass. It has been stripped of everything—it has nothing. Where there used to be air conditioning, there is none. Where there used to be beds, there are no beds. You may go into the carcass of a duplex and sleep on the floor, but it will feel like you are sleeping in the forest. Unfortunately, what remains is just a carcass.”

Okolugbo expressed pain over the party’s decline, noting that those who helped build the PDP are now disillusioned. She criticized some individuals who, she claimed, had previously aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC) but are now enjoying the benefits of government.

“For some of us, it is very painful because we built the PDP. When some of the people currently enjoying government benefits were busy collecting names for the APC, we were working hard to build this party. It’s not a good feeling for us,” she lamented.

Okolugbo added that Senator Nwoko’s recent decisions regarding the PDP were not made lightly. “It wasn’t an easy or careless decision for the distinguished senator. It was a carefully considered one, and he has been going through the process of re-evaluating his stance.”

Her comments reflect a growing narrative of discontent within the party and among its former loyalists.