By Ndu Samuel

The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide has congratulated the newly inaugurated leadership of the Ijaw National Congress led by Chief (Barr.) Macdonald Igbadiwei following their inauguration held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Chief Tunde Smooth Playground in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

In a statement signed by the spokesman of the IYC Worldwide, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, the group described the emergence of the new INC leadership as another significant chapter in the collective struggle and advancement of the Ijaw nation.

The IYC expressed optimism that under the leadership of Chief Macdonald Igbadiwei, the INC would witness renewed strength, unity, progress and purposeful direction in the pursuit of the aspirations of the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta region.

The group also commended the distribution of six brand new luxurious buses to various zones and chapters of the INC by the new president on his first day in office, describing the gesture as a sign of visionary leadership and commitment to effective coordination of the organisation.

According to the statement, the development would enhance mobilization, participation and inclusiveness of members across all zones during meetings, consultations and other engagements concerning the Ijaw nation.

The IYC further urged the new leadership of the INC to prioritize reconciliation, unity and inclusiveness by reaching out to aggrieved leaders, aspirants and stakeholders across Ijaw land.

The council noted that at a time when the Ijaw nation faces political, economic and environmental challenges, there is a need for all sons and daughters of Ijaw land to unite and work together for the collective interest of the people.

The statement also appealed to individuals dissatisfied with the outcome of the process to embrace peace and support the new Executive Council in order to sustain unity and progress within the Ijaw nation.

The IYC Worldwide reaffirmed its readiness to continue working closely with the new INC leadership, noting that both organizations remain committed to defending and advancing the interests of the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta struggle.

The group expressed confidence that the newly constituted executive under Chief Macdonald Igbadiwei alongside other members of the executive council would bring greater stability, development and progress to the Ijaw nation.

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has extended congratulations to Dr. Pereotubo Peter Akpe on his inauguration as Bayelsa State Deputy Governor.

In a statement on Wednesday 25th of February 2026, IYC Spokesman Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill praised Dr. Akpe’s dedication, hard work, and commitment to public service.

The IYC particularly hailed Governor Douye Diri on the choice of Dr. Akpe as Deputy Governor.

The statement reads in full below:

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide Press Statement

25/02/2026

IYC Congratulates Dr Akpe on Inauguration as Bayelsa State Deputy Governor

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide extends its warmest congratulations to His Excellency Dr. Pereotubo Peter Akpe on his successful inauguration as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.

Dr. Akpe’s appointment is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and commitment to public service. His track record as a two-term House of Assembly member, former Deputy Chief of Staff, and Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri makes him an ideal fit for the role.

The IYC recognizes Dr. Akpe’s grassroots approach and his deep understanding of Bayelsa State’s complexities. His experience and expertise will undoubtedly be invaluable in driving development and progress in the state.

As a seasoned politician, Dr. Akpe has demonstrated his ability to work collaboratively with others. We have no doubt that he will bring his wealth of experience to bear in supporting Governor Douye Diri’s vision for Bayelsa State.

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide is confident that Dr. Akpe will be a capable and effective Deputy Governor. His inauguration marks a new chapter in Bayelsa State’s development, and we look forward to working with him.

Dr. Akpe’s familiarity with Ijaw issues and the state’s peculiarities will be a significant asset in addressing the challenges facing Bayelsa State. His leadership will undoubtedly inspire confidence and optimism among the people.

The IYC commends Governor Douye Diri for his wise choice of Dr. Akpe as his Deputy Governor. This appointment demonstrates his commitment to building a strong and effective leadership team.

We urge Dr. Akpe to remain focused on the needs of the people and to continue serving with integrity and dedication. The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide pledges its support and cooperation in his new role.

As Deputy Governor, Dr. Akpe has a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on Bayelsa State. We are confident that he will rise to the challenge and deliver on the expectations of the people.

The Ijaw people are proud of Dr. Akpe’s achievement, and we celebrate his success. His inauguration is a milestone in his illustrious career, and we wish him well in his new role.

The IYC calls on all Bayelsa State citizens to join us in congratulating Dr. Akpe on his inauguration. Together, we can build a brighter future for Bayelsa State and the Ijaw nation.

Once again, we congratulate His Excellency Dr. Pereotubo Peter Akpe on his successful inauguration as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State. We look forward to working with him in the days ahead.

Signed

Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide

Born in Ofoni, Tarakiri Kingdom, Bayelsa State, Ewhrudjakpo served with distinction as Deputy Governor and as a Senator of the Federal Republic, championing legislation that benefited the Niger Delta and advocating for marginalized communities. His tenure was marked by tangible development—roads, schools, health centres, and youth‑empowerment programmes—often carried out in close collaboration with Governor Douye Diri  ¹. Colleagues, including former Governor Seriake Dickson, recalled his “open‑door policy” and “commitment to service,” noting that his loss is “a painful, irreplaceable loss” to the region  ².

The IYC praised Ewhrudjakpo’s humility, mentorship of young Ijaw leaders, and his tireless work to preserve Ijaw culture, language and environmental stewardship. “He was a bridge between tradition and progress,” the council said, urging all Ijaw youths to honor his memory by upholding the values of dedication, solidarity and service. The statement also highlighted the outpouring of grief from political figures and civil groups, with PANDEF declaring three days of mourning and ordering flags to fly at half‑mast  ³ ⁴.

The Deputy Governor collapsed in his office on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and was pronounced dead at the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa after a cardiac emergency  ⁵. His passing has prompted a three‑day state mourning period, with flags at half‑mast across Bayelsa  ¹.

The IYC concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s soul and for strength for his family and the Ijaw nation during this difficult time.

Yenagoa – In a passionate appeal issued on Thursday, December 11, 2025, KEKU Christopher, a self‑styled Youth Ambassador and “core son” of Kou Kingdom, urged Governor Douye Diri and senior officials to reconsider the recent ban on black‑sand (silicon) digging along the kingdom’s shoreline.

The ban, announced by the state government on Monday, December 8, 2025, prohibits unauthorized mining of “black sand” in coastal areas such as Foropa, Agge and Die‑ama, warning that any existing memoranda of understanding with miners are null and void  ¹ ². The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, cited environmental and health risks, and warned community leaders that violations would attract arrest  ³.

Speaking on behalf of the coastal residents of Kou Kingdom, Christopher reminded officials that the law should be enforced only when basic services—clean water, functional hospitals, equipped schools, reliable communications and proper walkways—are already in place for host communities. He highlighted past grievances: coastal erosion that swept away homes, the government’s silence during oil spills that crippled fishing, and the perception that the state’s own dredgers in Ofoni operate tax‑free while Kou’s sand is singled out.

“The ban is legal and enforceable, but only if the government first delivers the amenities we have been promised,” Christopher said. He demanded a share of benefits for the communities of Agge, Agge‑Palmbush, Orobiri, Ogbeintu, Amazor and Azamabiri, including social infrastructure, government appointments, civil‑service jobs, support for fishermen, a communications network, and assistance in legal battles against host companies that “enslave” locals.

He also called for a state‑backed skills‑training centre, financial loans for women entrepreneurs, and job placements for graduates, arguing that the lack of such programmes fuels illegal mining. “We are not asking for a free hand; we are asking for fair partnership and development that turns this natural resource into a blessing for the state,” he added.

The youth leader’s statement comes amid a broader crackdown on illegal mining across Bayelsa’s eight LGAs, with the environment commissioner, Hon. Ebi Ben‑Ololo, reiterating the need to follow existing mining regulations  ¹. Community leaders from Foropa, Die‑ama and Odioma have already pledged support for the government’s enforcement drive  ¹.

The appeal has sparked a fresh debate on equity in resource management, with observers watching whether the state will balance environmental protection with the developmental needs of its coastal communities.

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide issued a press release on earlier today condemning the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) sealing of the Maitama residence of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva. The operation, carried out without a warrant, subpoena or prior notice, was described by the council as a “flagrant disregard for constitutional rights and a blatant violation of due process.”

In the statement, signed by Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill, spokesperson for IYC Worldwide, the group said no formal charge, indictment or credible evidence has been presented to justify the action against Sylva. “No crime has been established – the Ijaw nation awaits answers,” the release read, adding that Sylva, who served under the late President Muhammadu Buhari, is being subjected to a “witch‑hunt” lacking legal foundation.

The council highlighted what it called selective targeting of an Ijaw leader, noting that while Sylva’s properties have been sealed, other former ministers from the Buhari administration allegedly involved in larger financial irregularities have not faced similar measures. The IYC warned that such selective enforcement could suggest ethnic bias in the current anti‑corruption drive.

While reaffirming support for lawful enforcement, the IYC stressed that agencies must operate within the law, respecting the right to a fair hearing, presumption of innocence and the sanctity of the home. The sealing, which involved spray‑painting the walls with “EFCC – Keep Off” and denying occupants access, was said to undermine the principles the EFCC claims to uphold.

The action has left Sylva’s family and staff “effectively encircled” and unable to leave the country freely. Four of his aides—Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Paul, Musa Mohammed and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba—remain in detention without charge, a situation the council described as an affront to natural justice.

The IYC called on the EFCC and relevant authorities to:

1. Produce the legal instrument authorising the sealing and disclose any supporting evidence, upholding Sylva’s right to a fair hearing.
2. Halt further intrusive measures against Sylva, his family and staff until a transparent investigation is completed.
3. Release the detained aides immediately or formally charge them in accordance with due process.
4. Ensure law‑enforcement agencies are not used as tools for political or ethnic vendettas.

The council warned that selective justice erodes public trust and weakens democratic institutions. It urged the National Assembly, the Presidency and all Nigerians to reject any form of persecution based on ethnicity or political affiliation.

The IYC said it will continue to monitor the situation and may mobilise its members and partners to defend justice and equity. It expressed hope that truth and fairness will prevail and that Sylva will be treated in a manner befitting his service to the nation. The release also referenced the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, recalling a similar case that remains “fresh in our memories.”

…Governor Oborevwori, Matthew Tonlagha, many dignitaries prepare to grace occasion 

By Ndu Samuel 

The good people of ancient and oil rich Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government area of Delta State have rolled out programmes for the celebration of their highly revered paramount ruler, His Royal Majesty ELDER CAPT. KING JOSEPH I. TIMIYAN (JP) PhD.

Torubobu-I, Agbonu!, the Ebenanaowei of  Ogulagha Kingdom on his 20th coronation anniversary. 

This was contained in a circular made available to newsmen in Warri recently, a copy of which was obtained by The Liberator Newspapers Worldwide. 

However, traditional pundits have observed that the highly anticipated 20th Coronation Anniversary of the Pere of oil rich Ogulagha Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State will be historic and one of its kind, adding that communities in the kingdom are already burbling ahead of the celebration. 

Ogulagha Kingdom, known for its rich culture, blessed with natural resources, oil which is the mainstay of the Nigerian economy is in abundance in almost all communities constituting Ogulagha Kingdom. 

The oil rich Ogulagha Kingdom is not only blessed with natural resources but the environment itself is topnotch for tourists attraction as the people are highly hospitable and accommodating, perhaps the diving school fronted by Rt. Hon. Julius Pondi, member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, House of representatives will surely make sense when it must have been approved. 

It was learnt that his Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori will be gracing the occasion as special guest of honour, Ijaw born business mogul, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, Chairman/CEO Maton Engineering Ltd will grace the occasion as father of the day. 

Nevertheless, the Speaker Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon EMOMOTIMI DENNIS GUWOR will be gracing the ceremony as Chairman of the Day.

Meanwhile, it would be recalled that His Royal Majesty,  ELDER CAPT. KING JOSEPH I. TIMIYAN (JP) PhD. Torubobu-I, Agbonu!, the Ebenanaowei of  Ogulagha Kingdom is also the Chairman of Delta State Ijaw Traditional Rulers Council. 

The Throne, the Traditional Council of Chiefs and the Good People of Oil Rich Ogulagha Kingdom, Burutu L.G.A., Delta State have invited the general public for the 20th coronation anniversary, stressing that it is  going to be historic, wonderful and interesting. 

It would be recalled that the coronation anniversary will begin as from November 10th and will metamorphose to the grand finale on the 12th of November 2025.

According to the circular announcing the coronation anniversary, there are different kinds of events in each of the three days featuring a tour around all key communities in Ogulagha Kingdom, novelty football match with the host of several entertaining activities.

It was further gathered that music will be supplied by Dr. Alfred Izon-ebi (JKing) and His Because of Love Band with the host of other musicians.

Stay tuned for more detailed reportage from The Liberator Newspapers Worldwide

...Hails Maton Engineering on excellent job 

By Ndu Samuel 

The Spokesman of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Amb (Dr ) Binebai Yerin Princewill has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign a permanent contract with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. The Liberator Newspaper can report.

Dr Binebai made the call on Friday 17th of October 2025 in Warri in an interview during a stakeholders appreciation ceremony jointly organised by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering. 

The IYC Spokesman had also lauded Maton Engineering for their excellent job so far, stressing that the company’s cooperate social responsibility over the years is applaudable. 

Stakeholders representing ethnic groups in the Niger Delta region on Friday 17th of October 2025 converged at the popular KFT event center at Warri, Delta state in a stakeholders appreciation ceremony jointly organised by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering.

The ceremony which attracted critical stakeholders across the region, ranging from traditional rulers, political class, youth leaders, military officers with the host of several other prominent personalities that thronged out of their numbers to attend the well organised programme. 

During the programme speaker after speaker among the stakeholders in their goodwill messages had appreciated Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering in safeguarding oil and gas facilities in the region. 

In an interview with newsmen during the event, The Spokesman of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Amb. (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill had called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign a permanent contract with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, stressing that Tantita and Maton Engineering are Godsent to Nigerians and Niger Delta people. 

Dr Binebai Princewill while calling on the Federal Government of Nigeria to expand the scope of Tantita with increased funding alleged that Tantita is gradually becoming a major boost and asset to the President Tinubu’s administration, adding that Tantita and Maton Engineering are seriously reaching out to almost all stakeholders in the region and have invested hugely toward peace building in the region. 

The Spokesman of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill had particularly described Tantita as one of the best thing that has ever happened to the Niger Delta people in recent times, adding that Niger Deltans have never had it this good, stressing that Tantita’s uncompromising fight against oil theft has led to the atronomic increase in crude oil production which an issue before the coming onboard of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. 

Speaking further, Binebai had called on critical stakeholders across the region to continue to support Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering to fully annex the good intentions they have for the people. 

Princewill maintained that beyond the protection of oil and gas facilities in the region, Tantita and Maton Engineering had embarked on very heavy oversight functions as part of their robust cooperate social responsibility for their host communities. 

Meanwhile, the trumpet of Ijaw nation, Binebai Yerin who is also the publisher of The Liberator Newspaper had appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited the financial enabling environment to strive in protecting oil and gas facilities, stating that the entire Niger Delta people are happy. 

The Liberator News Has More Details

Ndu Samuel 

Renowned African literary scholar, Prof Benedict Binebai from the Niger Delta University is set to officially get married to his heartbeat, Mss Eniola Sarah James in Yenagoa September 6th 2025.

However, the marriage reception will take place on the 6th of September 2025 at De Gracious Event Centre, Palm Road, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Nevertheless, the duo of Prof Benedict Binebai and Eniola Sarah James had invited friends,  well wishers and members of the general public to grace their anticipated epoch marriage ceremony. 

Ben Binebai is a professor of drama, dramatic theory and criticism, he is the orator of the Niger Delta University, NDU, Amassoma, Bayelsa State

By Ndu Samuel 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has described Dr Samuel Ogbuku, MD/CEO Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as a campion of Development in the Niger Delta region.

This was contained in a statement signed by Amb. ( Dr ) Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman IYC Worldwide on behalf of council while celebrating the birth anniversary of the MD, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku. 

The Liberator Newspapers Worldwide can report.

The statement reads in full below:Ijaw Youth Council (IYC ) Worldwide 

Press Release 

19/08/2025

Ogbuku: A Champion Of Development In Niger Delta – IYC 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has described Dr Samuel Ogbuku, MD/CEO Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as a campion of Development in the Niger Delta region.

As you mark your glowing birth anniversary today, the IYC is reminded of the result driven, progressive innovations, productive leadership you have brought to the NDDC, the IYC is aware of your ongoing reforms in the NDDC which is translating to legacy projects in our region and your empowerment packages to our people. 

Nevertheless, while as Ijaw people we need more development in our areas, we want to admonish you for your efforts so far in carrying relevant stakeholders along in the Niger Delta region as it is our wish that you continue to reach out to even more stakeholders. 

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) today is truly in safe hands with Dr Samuel Ogbuku, he has proven himself undoubtedly as one of the best MD since the establishment of the commission and as Ijaws and Niger Deltans, we are very proud of him.

Since  Ogbuku’s appointment as MD/CEO of NDDC together with others in the present board, the MD and his team has been very deliberate on the development of the region and empowerment of our people in the region. 

It is our prayer as a council that the Lord Almighty shall continue to grant you long life and prosperity, sound health, knowledge and unprecedented wisdom to lead the NDDC to the promised land. We have come to say thank you for the many good things you are doing for our people. 

Congratulations once again on your birth anniversary our Md. The IYC cannot keep quiet on this special day of your birth anniversary. 

Signed. 

Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill 

Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide. 

By Ndu Samuel 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has described Dr Samuel Ogbuku, MD/CEO Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as a campion of Development in the Niger Delta region.

This was contained in a statement signed by Amb. ( Dr ) Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman IYC Worldwide on behalf of council while celebrating the birth anniversary of the MD, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku. 

The Liberator Newspapers Worldwide can report.

The statement reads in full below:Ijaw Youth Council (IYC ) Worldwide 

Press Release 

19/08/2025

Ogbuku: A Champion Of Development In Niger Delta – IYC 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has described Dr Samuel Ogbuku, MD/CEO Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as a campion of Development in the Niger Delta region.

As you mark your glowing birth anniversary today, the IYC is reminded of the result driven, progressive innovations, productive leadership you have brought to the NDDC, the IYC is aware of your ongoing reforms in the NDDC which is translating to legacy projects in our region and your empowerment packages to our people. 

Nevertheless, while as Ijaw people we need more development in our areas, we want to admonish you for your efforts so far in carrying relevant stakeholders along in the Niger Delta region as it is our wish that you continue to reach out to even more stakeholders. 

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) today is truly in safe hands with Dr Samuel Ogbuku, he has proven himself undoubtedly as one of the best MD since the establishment of the commission and as Ijaws and Niger Deltans, we are very proud of him.

Since  Ogbuku’s appointment as MD/CEO of NDDC together with others in the present board, the MD and his team has been very deliberate on the development of the region and empowerment of our people in the region. 

It is our prayer as a council that the Lord Almighty shall continue to grant you long life and prosperity, sound health, knowledge and unprecedented wisdom to lead the NDDC to the promised land. We have come to say thank you for the many good things you are doing for our people. 

Congratulations once again on your birth anniversary our Md. The IYC cannot keep quiet on this special day of your birth anniversary. 

Signed. 

Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill 

Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.