A strong warning has been issued to Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and other companies operating in the Niger Delta: Do not engage with Takenane Abaka under any circumstances.

Lucky Tubotu, a youth leader and indigene of Bilabiri 1 Community, has cautioned that Abaka’s tenure as Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman has long expired. In a statement released in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Tubotu made it clear that any company conducting business with Abaka or his associates would be legitimizing an illegal regime.

“Abaka is an Imposter—He Must Be Arrested”

Tubotu did not mince words, labeling Abaka an imposter who should be removed and prosecuted. He insisted that peace would remain elusive in Bilabiri 1 Community until Abaka and his illegal executive are ousted.

He recalled the tragic killing of Frank B. Seide on April 1, 2021, a murder allegedly tied to the extension of the CDC chairmanship. Tubotu accused Abaka’s faction of using intimidation and violence to retain power, even after their tenure officially ended on December 15, 2024.

“Terror Reigns in Bilabiri 1 Community”

According to Tubotu, Abaka and his associates have terrorized the community, unleashing violence on those who oppose them. Reports indicate that individuals resisting his illegal rule have been beaten, injured, and had their phones confiscated. Fear now grips Bilabiri 1, with many residents too terrified to speak out.

“Their tenure expired on December 15, 2024, yet they continue to illegally parade themselves as the CDC executive. Worse still, their allies possess illegal firearms, threatening innocent citizens—particularly Ebimene Abaka, aka ‘Small Fire.’”

Companies Dealing with Abaka Do So at Their Own Risk

Tubotu has sent a clear message: any company or individual conducting business with Abaka and his team does so at their own peril. Any agreements made with his expired administration will be deemed null and void.

“Enough is Enough—Security Agencies Must Act”

Calling for immediate intervention, Tubotu urged security agencies to arrest Takenane Abaka, Ebimene Abaka (Small Fire), Ebike Adams, Aaron Douglas, Highness Soja Dede, Esopi Wilson, and Darius Wilson. He emphasized that their illegal possession of firearms and continuous oppression of the community pose a serious threat to peace and security.

The time for action is now. The people of Bilabiri 1 Community refuse to be held hostage any longer.

By Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR

Asaba, Delta State – January 30, 2025

In a historic move, His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge (SAN, OON), the 14th Asagba of Asaba, has officially renamed the popular Bonsac satellite town to Ajaji Layout, with immediate effect. The announcement was made during his maiden familiarization visit to the former Bonsac and Oduke axis of his kingdom, marking a new chapter in the communities’ history.

The monarch stated that the renaming would be formally communicated to the Oshimili South Local Government for necessary administrative actions. To facilitate smooth implementation, he appointed Ogbueshi Dada Okolo as the Palace Liaison Officer for Ajaji Layout and Ogbueshi Adim Onochie as his counterpart in Oduke. He further directed that signposts reflecting the new name be erected at major entry points within a week, while assuring residents that all existing documents bearing “Bonsac” would remain valid.

A Call for Unity and Development

During his address, Asagba Azinge urged residents of Ajaji Layout and Oduke to uphold the traditions and cultural values of the land, remain law-abiding, and support the government of the day. Acknowledging the pressing infrastructural challenges in the communities—including deplorable road networks, lack of public schools, absence of healthcare facilities, and security concerns—the monarch assured residents that he would engage with relevant authorities to attract much-needed development.

The communities, in turn, warmly received their revered monarch, rolling out the red carpet in celebration of his visit—the first of its kind. The event was graced by palace officials, high-ranking chiefs, and dignitaries, who paid glowing tributes to the Asagba’s distinguished legal and academic legacy and his commitment to the progress of Asaba Kingdom.

A Renewed Plea for Government Intervention

In an interview with journalists during the visit, Comrade Ifeanyi Francis Ifeanyi, Secretary of the Ceremony Planning Committee, reiterated the communities’ urgent appeal for government intervention. With an estimated population of over 100,000 residents, the area still struggles with poor infrastructure, lack of a police post, absence of judicial institutions, and no functional marketplace.

The people, therefore, sought the Asagba’s royal influence to draw the attention of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, to these issues. They urged swift action before the next rainy season to improve their living conditions and secure their future.

With unwavering loyalty, the residents pledged their support to the Asagba’s reign, expressing confidence in his ability to steer the kingdom towards unity, progress, and sustainable development.

As the historic visit concluded, the people of Ajaji Layout and Oduke reaffirmed their belief in the power of traditional leadership to drive meaningful change, hoping that their voices—amplified by the Asagba—would resonate with decision-makers at all levels of government.

Long live the Asagba of Asaba!
Long live Ajaji Layout and Oduke!
Long live Delta State!
God bless Nigeria!

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.