The immediate past Spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, has extolled renowned Niger Delta personality and businessman, Sir Victor Tonlagha, on the occasion of his 50th golden jubilee birthday, describing him as a force to reckon with whose contributions to human development, community advancement and the growth of the Niger Delta remain worthy of celebration.

Princewill, in a goodwill message to commemorate the milestone, described Tonlagha as a man of exceptional generosity, humility and compassion, whose impact on the lives of many people across the Niger Delta extends beyond his public profile and business accomplishments.

He noted that attaining the age of 50 is not merely a celebration of longevity but an opportunity to reflect on a life of purpose, service, sacrifice and meaningful contributions to society, adding that Tonlagha has distinguished himself as a personality who understands the importance of lifting others and creating opportunities for people to thrive.

According to Princewill, Tonlagha’s benevolence has touched numerous lives, with his willingness to assist people, support worthy causes and extend a helping hand to those in need reflecting the character of a man who values humanity above personal recognition.

He said the celebrant’s generosity is particularly commendable because he has remained accessible and connected to ordinary people despite his status, business achievements and growing influence.

Princewill observed that one of Tonlagha’s most admirable qualities is his humility and refusal to allow success to distance him from the people around him. He described the celebrant as a man who does not discriminate against people on the basis of their background, social standing or personal circumstances, but treats people with respect, warmth and a genuine sense of brotherhood.

The former IYC spokesman noted that such qualities are increasingly important in a society where influence and material success can sometimes create barriers between individuals and their communities.

He described Tonlagha as an elder brother who has demonstrated, through his disposition and acts of kindness, that true greatness is measured not only by what a person possesses but also by the lives he touches, the burdens he helps to ease and the opportunities he creates for others.

Binebai also acknowledged that he had personally benefited from Tonlagha’s benevolence, expressing gratitude for the celebrant’s kindness and support. He said his personal experience had reinforced his appreciation of Tonlagha as a dependable and compassionate individual who understands the value of standing by others.

According to him, Tonlagha’s generosity is not simply about giving material assistance but also about making people feel valued, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations and demonstrating that genuine brotherhood remains an essential part of the Niger Delta’s communal heritage.

Speaking on Tonlagha’s place in the Niger Delta struggle for liberation and development, Princewill described him as a quiet contributor whose support for the aspirations of the people deserves recognition.

He noted that the Niger Delta struggle has been sustained over the years not only by those who speak publicly, lead protests or occupy prominent positions, but also by individuals who provide support behind the scenes, encourage those on the frontlines and contribute in ways that strengthen the collective pursuit of justice, equity, environmental protection and regional development.

Yerin said Tonlagha represents the importance of such silent contributions, stressing that the struggle for a better Niger Delta requires individuals who understand that meaningful change depends on collective responsibility, solidarity and the willingness to support the people.

He added that the region needs more successful individuals who remain conscious of their roots and committed to the welfare, dignity and aspirations of their people, irrespective of their personal accomplishments.

The former IYC spokesman further commended Tonlagha for maintaining a disposition that reflects humility and respect for others, describing these qualities as essential attributes of an elder statesman and a responsible community figure.

He expressed the hope that the celebrant’s golden jubilee would usher in an even more remarkable chapter of life, greater accomplishments and renewed opportunities to contribute to the development of the Niger Delta and humanity at large.

Binebai prayed for God’s continued protection over Tonlagha, wishing him long life, sound health, peace of mind, prosperity and abundant blessings. He also prayed for the expansion of the celebrant’s business empire, greater commercial opportunities, sustained success and the wisdom to continue building enterprises that create value and positively impact lives.

He further prayed that Tonlagha would enjoy many more fruitful decades, surrounded by love, loyal friends, family members and beneficiaries whose lives have been positively influenced by his generosity.

“As you celebrate your 50th golden jubilee, my prayer is that God will preserve your life, strengthen you with sound health, enlarge your coast and bless the works of your hands. May your business empire continue to expand, may greater opportunities locate you, and may you enjoy the rewards of your labour in peace, prosperity and fulfilment.

 

“You have touched lives in ways that may never be fully captured in public accounts, and I am personally grateful to have benefited from your benevolence. Your humility, accessibility and non-discriminatory disposition distinguish you as an elder brother who understands that the greatest legacy is the positive impact we make on the lives of others,” Princewill said.

He urged Tonlagha to remain steadfast in his commitment to humanity, noting that his golden jubilee offers another opportunity to deepen his contributions to the Niger Delta and inspire younger generations to embrace generosity, humility, service and collective progress.

Princewill concluded by describing Sir Victor Tonlagha’s 50th birthday as a celebration of life, experience, achievement and the enduring value of human kindness, expressing confidence that the years ahead would bring the celebrant greater accomplishments and more opportunities to make a lasting difference.

He wished him a happy 50th golden jubilee birthday, praying that the new chapter would be marked by divine favour, sound health, long life, prosperity and an ever-expanding capacity to uplift humanity.

By Ndu Samuel

The Traditional Prime Minister of Iduwini Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Evans Egbesekumor Etimigba, JP, FICMC, FABEN, MBA, has congratulated Sir Victor Tonlagha on his 50th golden jubilee birthday, describing the milestone as an occasion to celebrate a life of impact, service, generosity and commitment to humanity.

Chief Etimigba, who holds the traditional title of Osuopele Karewei of Iduwini Kingdom in Delta State said the widespread birthday celebrations across social media platforms and various communities in the Niger Delta were a testament to Sir Tonlagha’s contributions to society and the positive influence he has had on the lives of many people.

According to him, attaining the golden age of 50 is not merely a personal milestone but an opportunity to reflect on a life dedicated to meaningful relationships, human capacity development, community advancement and the empowerment of others.

He noted that the outpouring of goodwill from different parts of the Niger Delta demonstrates the value people place on Sir Tonlagha’s personality, generosity and contributions to societal development.

The Iduwini Kingdom Traditional Prime Minister particularly expressed pride in Sir Tonlagha’s maternal connection to Ofougbene Community in Iduwini Kingdom, Delta State, describing him as an illustrious son whose achievements and contributions have continued to bring honour to his ancestral roots.

Chief Etimigba observed that Sir Tonlagha’s impact extends beyond personal relationships, noting that his contributions to human development and community welfare have touched and transformed lives within Iduwini Kingdom and across the wider Niger Delta region.

He said the golden jubilee celebration offers an opportunity to appreciate not only the years Sir Tonlagha has lived but also the positive footprints he has continued to leave in the lives of individuals and communities.

The traditional prime minister added that the recognition and goodwill accompanying the celebration reflect the importance of individuals who use their influence, resources and opportunities to uplift others and contribute to the advancement of society.

He further prayed that God would grant the celebrant many more years of fruitful living, sound health, wisdom, peace of mind, divine protection and prosperity.

Chief Etimigba also wished Sir Tonlagha greater accomplishments in the years ahead, expressing hope that his golden age would usher in renewed strength, fresh opportunities and greater capacity to contribute to the development of Iduwini Kingdom, Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta at large.

He encouraged the celebrant to remain committed to the values of generosity, unity, service and peaceful coexistence, adding that the goodwill surrounding his 50th birthday should inspire him to continue making meaningful contributions to humanity.

The Iduwini Kingdom Traditional Prime Minister concluded by wishing Sir Victor Tonlagha a memorable golden jubilee celebration, praying that his new chapter would be marked by greater achievements, happiness, fulfilment and enduring prosperity.

SIGNED:

CHIEF EVANS EGBESEKUMOR ETIMIGBA

JP, FICMC, FABEN, MBA

The Osuopele Karewei of Iduwini Kingdom, Delta State

The leadership of Soron Ibe-Ijaw Kingdoms of Edo State has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to urgently investigate and prosecute individuals it accused of attacking Ijaw indigenes and their lawyers at the premises of the Edo State High Court in Benin City on October 6, 2026.

The group made the demand during a press conference following an alleged violent incident involving Gelegelegbene indigenes who were at High Court 4 (Civil) to represent their community in a suit instituted by Ughoton Community.

According to Soron Ibe-Ijaw, the alleged attack occurred shortly after the court sitting at about 10:30 a.m., when a group of more than 50 persons, whom it identified as members of the Otedo youth group, allegedly followed the Gelegelegbene representatives and their lawyers from the courtroom to the court canteen.

The organisation alleged that the group was led by individuals it identified as Osaze Amas Edobor and Uwadiae Iyoha.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw alleged that the youths recorded videos of the litigants and their lawyers while moving around the court premises and subsequently brandished what it described as battle axes and short guns in what the group said was an attempt to intimidate and threaten those present.

The situation, according to the organisation, allegedly escalated when the group followed the litigants and their lawyers towards the exit gate of the court premises.

It alleged that some of the Gelegelegbene representatives were physically attacked and that some were forced towards waiting vehicles in circumstances the group described as an alleged attempt to abduct them.

The organisation said the intervention of security personnel attached to the High Court prevented the situation from escalating further, before the arrival of the Divisional Police Officer of Aideyan Police Division, who it said subsequently brought the situation under control.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw further alleged that several victims sustained injuries during the incident, while some had their clothes torn.

Court Security, CCTV Evidence

The group said its lawyers subsequently returned to the courtroom to report the incident, following which the presiding judge invited the Chief Security Officer of the court to confirm what had happened.

According to Soron Ibe-Ijaw, the Chief Security Officer acknowledged that the incident was captured by the court’s closed-circuit television cameras.

The organisation therefore urged the police and other relevant security agencies to obtain and examine the CCTV recordings as part of their investigation.

It said the footage could assist investigators in establishing what transpired at the court premises and identifying individuals allegedly involved in the incident.

Alleged Social Media Mobilisation

The Ijaw body also linked the alleged incident to what it described as an earlier mobilisation message circulated on social media.

According to the organisation, an individual identified as Stafford V.I.O. Iyonmahan allegedly posted a message calling on Bini youths to mobilise to the court premises on October 6.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw alleged that the mobilisation was intended to create confrontation with Ijaw indigenes from Gelegelegbene.

The organisation called for the alleged social media communication to be investigated to establish its origin, purpose and connection, if any, with the events that occurred at the court.

Previous Alleged Incident at NUJ Centre

Soron Ibe-Ijaw also cited what it described as an earlier incident involving some of its leaders at the Nigeria Union of Journalists press centre in the Government Reserved Area of Benin City.

According to the group, on September 27, 2026, some of its leaders were allegedly followed to the NUJ press centre by persons led by Iyamu Osaro, whom the organisation identified as Chairman of the Edo State Consumer Protection Committee and purported President of Aguobasimwin Movement Worldwide.

The organisation alleged that the incident occurred while its leaders were exchanging pleasantries with another Ijaw man in the presence of Ogbeide Uhunmwose and other journalists.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw described the incident as part of what it considers a worrying pattern of harassment directed at Ijaw indigenes in Edo State.

The organisation also alleged that Uwadiae Iyoha, popularly known as “Higher Man”, made a threat against Ijaw indigenes on his personal Facebook page.

It said it had evidence of the alleged social media post and would make it available to security agencies when required.

‘Court Must Remain Safe for All’

The leadership of Soron Ibe-Ijaw expressed particular concern over the alleged incident taking place within the premises of the High Court, which it described as a place where citizens should be able to seek justice without fear or intimidation.

The group said the alleged attack was particularly troubling because the individuals involved were at the court in connection with an ongoing legal dispute.

It stressed that disagreements over land, community interests, traditional matters or other disputes should be resolved through lawful judicial and traditional mechanisms rather than violence.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw said it remained committed to protecting the interests and safety of Ijaw communities in Edo State but urged its people to remain calm and allow the appropriate authorities to investigate the allegations.

Call for Investigation and Prosecution

The organisation consequently appealed to the Edo State Governor, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 5, the Edo State Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies to urgently investigate the October 6 incident.

It specifically called for the investigation of the individuals and youth leadership it accused of involvement in the alleged attack, as well as any other persons found to have participated in the incident.

The group urged the authorities to examine the court’s CCTV footage, social media posts and other available evidence that could assist the investigation.

It also called for measures to prevent a recurrence of violence and protect litigants, lawyers, court officials and members of the public attending the court.

According to the organisation, failure to address allegations of violence and threats could deepen tensions between communities and ethnic groups in the state.

It therefore urged the Edo State Government and security agencies to act promptly to prevent the situation from escalating into a wider communal confrontation.

‘We Will Defend Ourselves’

While expressing its desire for peaceful resolution, the Soron Ibe-Ijaw leadership warned that the Ijaw people would not accept what it described as continued harassment, assault and threats against its members.

The organisation said the Ijaw people had the capacity to defend themselves if attacked, but stressed that its preference was for the government and security agencies to intervene before tensions degenerated further.

It appealed to community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders in Edo State to discourage inflammatory rhetoric and avoid actions capable of triggering ethnic confrontation.

The group maintained that the dispute involving Gelegelegbene should be allowed to proceed through the appropriate legal channels.

It said all parties should respect the rule of law and allow the courts to determine matters before them without intimidation or interference.

Soron Ibe-Ijaw concluded by urging the Edo State Government to rise to the situation, investigate the allegations and take appropriate lawful action against anyone found culpable.

The organisation said such intervention would help restore confidence in the security and judicial systems and prevent the alleged incidents from developing into a broader crisis.

Signed:
Elder Edmund Tiemo
President, Soron Ibe-Ijaw, Edo State
Chairman, Egbema Leaders of Thought

High Chief Robinson Ogunkoruwei
Vice President

Toru-Ibe Agagha, Esq.
General Secretary

Dr. Freedom Atigbi, PhD
Youth Leader

Former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of abandoning the ideals upon which it was founded.

Sylva announced his resignation in a letter dated Monday, August 31, 2026, addressed to the APC Chairman of Ward 4 in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In the letter, which was electronically delivered, Sylva said his decision followed extensive consultations with his family, associates, colleagues and sympathisers.

“Having consulted widely with my family, associates, colleagues and sympathisers, I wish to formally tender my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), with immediate effect,” he stated.

The former governor, who described himself as a founding member of the APC, recalled his contributions to building the party and expressed disappointment with what he described as its current direction.

Sylva alleged that the approach of the APC leadership to politics had eroded basic standards of decency and morality, a development he said contributed to his decision to leave the party.

His resignation comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections and is expected to trigger fresh political realignments in Bayelsa State and the wider Niger Delta.

Sylva Blasts EFCC Amid Controversy

Sylva’s resignation also comes amid a long-running controversy involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The former governor was declared wanted by the EFCC in November 2025 over allegations of conspiracy and dishonest conversion involving $14,859,257 in funds belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

The funds were reportedly linked to a refinery project involving Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.

The allegations against Sylva remain subject to due process and judicial determination, and the former governor is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a competent court.

The EFCC matter has nevertheless continued to attract political attention, particularly given Sylva’s prominence in Bayelsa politics and his previous role in the federal government.

Sylva’s exit from the APC now adds another major development to the unfolding political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, with attention expected to shift to his next political move and whether his departure will influence emerging alliances in Bayelsa and the Niger Delta.

The Visionary Pathfinders Initiative, under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Comr. Quinton Tekedor, has officially unveiled its Living Beyond Oil 2.0 programme in Warri, Delta State, as part of efforts to inspire and empower young people in the Niger Delta to explore opportunities beyond crude oil.

The programme was unveiled on Sunday, August 30, 2026, ahead of its grand finale scheduled to take place in Delta State in December.

Speaking on the initiative, the CEO of Visionary Pathfinders, Comr. Quinton Tekedor, said Living Beyond Oil 2.0 would be an exciting and impactful programme, with several innovative and mind-blowing packages designed to engage and empower Niger Delta youths.

According to him, the programme will focus on preparing the minds of young people through Living Beyond Oil talks, while exposing them to ideas, skills, opportunities and possibilities that can help them build sustainable futures outside the traditional oil-dependent economy.

Tekedor encouraged young people across the Niger Delta to key into the programme and take advantage of the opportunities it offers, stressing the importance of preparing the next generation for a future driven by innovation, enterprise and sustainable development.
He also disclosed that following the official unveiling, the Visionary Pathfinders team would embark on an extensive awareness campaign across the Niger Delta.

As part of the campaign, members of the initiative are expected to visit community leaders, traditional rulers, youth leaders, various communities, groups and other stakeholders to create awareness about the programme and encourage wider participation.

The awareness drive, according to the organisers, is aimed at ensuring that the message of Living Beyond Oil reaches young people at the grassroots and encourages them to become active participants in the initiative.

The Visionary Pathfinders Initiative is therefore calling on Niger Delta youths, community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to embrace the programme and support its vision of building a generation capable of creating opportunities beyond oil.

The Living Beyond Oil 2.0 initiative is anchored on the message: “Innovate. Empower. Prosper. Building a Future Beyond Limits.”

The programme will culminate in a grand finale in Delta State in December 2026, with organisers promising more activities, engagements and empowerment-focused packages as the initiative progresses.

Rising Ijaw-born Nigerian music star, Hero Beremi, has secured a major career milestone after signing a multimillion-naira endorsement deal with Rock-Link Real Estate Nigeria Limited, a leading real estate company in Anambra State.

The deal will see Hero Beremi become the brand ambassador and face of Rock-Link Real Estate in Delta State and the South-South region, further expanding his profile within Nigeria’s entertainment and business space.

The partnership covers several areas of support, including studio recording, artiste promotion, collaborations, featuring opportunities with other musicians and other music-related initiatives designed to support the growth of his career.

Speaking on the endorsement, the Chief Executive Officer of Rock-Link Real Estate Nigeria Limited, Chief Engineer Kingsley Obika, popularly known as Akudo 1 of Ogbunka, expressed excitement over the partnership.

Obika, who described himself as a big fan of Hero Beremi’s music, praised the artiste for his resilience, consistency and continuous improvement since the beginning of his music journey.

According to him, the decision to endorse Hero Beremi was also aimed at encouraging the young artiste while creating opportunities for him to connect with artistes and creative talents in the South-East.

“Hero Beremi is one of our ambassadors today, and I’m very happy to endorse him. I have been following him for a long time, and he has kept improving in what he knows how to do best.

“This is also a way to encourage him and promote him in the South-East. I want him to work with our Igbo artists here. He is now the face of Rock-Link Real Estate in Delta State and the South-South at large.”

The partnership is expected to provide Hero Beremi with greater opportunities for collaborations with artistes across the South-East, enhanced music promotion, increased visibility and access to creative resources.

For the Ijaw-born artiste, the endorsement represents another important achievement in his growing music career and a strong vote of confidence in his talent, hard work and determination to succeed in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

The development has also attracted congratulatory messages from fans, friends and supporters who have hailed the partnership as a significant step forward for the rising artiste.

Congratulations to Hero Beremi on this remarkable achievement.

Follow and tag Rock-Link Real Estate Company Nigeria Limited and Chief Engineer Kingsley Obika, popularly known as Akudo 1 of Ogbunka, and join us in celebrating Hero Beremi.

The National Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for Warri Federal Constituency, Comrade Mulade Blessing Sheriff, PhD, has unveiled an agenda centred on ethnic unity, economic revival, youth empowerment and improved federal representation ahead of the 2027 House of Representatives election.

Mulade, a United Nations Peace Ambassador and environmental rights activist, spoke during his official campaign flag-off and consultation meeting with supporters and stakeholders at Tobiz Villa Event Centre, Warri, Delta State.

He said the 2027 election should be viewed as an opportunity for the people of Warri Federal Constituency to elect a representative with the capacity, competence and commitment to attract meaningful development to the area.

The NDP candidate argued that despite the constituency’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy, many communities continue to face developmental challenges, unemployment and inadequate federal attention.

He pledged to make constructive advocacy and stakeholder engagement central to his representation if elected, promising to ensure that issues affecting the people are effectively presented before the National Assembly.

“If elected in 2027 into the House of Representatives, Warri City and its environs would be given the deserved special attention through constructive advocacy and engagement with all relevant stakeholders. As the voice for the voiceless, I assure you that the voice of Warri people will be heard constructively,” he said.

Mulade also identified the revival of the Warri and Koko seaports and the Warri Industrial Park as key areas that could stimulate economic activity and create jobs across the constituency.

He said he would work with local, state and federal authorities, as well as relevant private-sector stakeholders, to pursue the revitalisation of the projects.

According to him, greater attention would also be given to agriculture, fisheries and skills acquisition as pathways to empower youths and women and reduce unemployment.

The Gbaramatu Kingdom traditional title holder maintained that his ambition was not about occupying a political position but about addressing what he described as the representation and development gaps confronting the constituency.

“I am not a political mole or placeholder, but I am here to close the gap through constructive advocacy, engagement and an inclusive approach,” Mulade stated.

He further called on the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities to reject ethnic rivalry and build stronger relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

“We cannot continue to fight ourselves, we cannot continue to deprive ourselves, we cannot continue to destroy ourselves,” he said, urging residents to rise above individual and ethnic considerations for the collective development of the constituency.

Mulade described his NDP candidacy as a “light of hope” for Warri Federal Constituency, expressing confidence that an inclusive approach to governance could strengthen peace, improve representation and unlock greater economic opportunities for the people.

He pledged that, if elected, his legislative agenda would focus on people-oriented representation, peacebuilding, economic development, employment creation and sustained advocacy for the constituency at the federal level.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial candidate for Delta South, Chief Adowei Binaebi Freedom, has pledged to provide effective, people-oriented and development-focused representation if elected to the National Assembly in the 2027 general elections.

Adowei, who has emerged as the NDC flag bearer for the Delta South Senatorial District, has continued to engage stakeholders, party leaders, traditional institutions, youths and other critical groups across the senatorial district ahead of the election. Recent reports indicate that his engagements have included consultations with community and political leaders as he seeks broader support for his candidacy.

Speaking on his vision for Delta South, Adowei said his ambition was driven by the desire to give the people stronger representation and ensure that the concerns of communities across the district receive adequate attention at the National Assembly.

He stressed the need for a senator who would remain accessible to the people, understand the peculiar challenges of the riverine and upland communities, and consistently push for policies and projects capable of improving the quality of life of constituents.

According to him, effective representation should go beyond legislative attendance and political appearances, but must translate into tangible interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, employment, environmental protection and economic development.

Adowei is also expected to make grassroots mobilisation and stakeholder engagement central to his campaign as the 2027 elections draw closer. His candidacy has already attracted calls from some NDC supporters and community stakeholders for residents across Delta South to rally behind him.

The Delta South Senatorial District comprises Warri South, Warri North, Warri South-West, Bomadi, Burutu, Isoko North, Isoko South, Patani and parts of the district’s diverse ethnic and riverine communities. The constituency is characterised by significant oil and gas activities, waterways, fishing communities and long-standing demands for improved infrastructure and environmental justice.

Adowei has therefore positioned his campaign around the need for inclusive representation that recognises the diversity of Delta South and ensures that no community is left behind in the development process.

Political observers say the 2027 contest is expected to be competitive, with major political parties positioning their candidates and intensifying grassroots engagements across the district.

With the NDC having presented Adowei as its Delta South senatorial candidate, attention is now shifting towards the campaign season, where the party will be expected to articulate its programmes and convince voters that its candidate can provide the representation the district deserves.

For Adowei, the task ahead is clear: to translate his political ambition into a broad-based movement capable of winning the confidence of voters across Delta South and delivering a new approach to senatorial representation in 2027.

Indigenes of Odidi Federated Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State have raised a fresh alarm over the worsening impact of an oil spill which they say has continued to threaten their livelihoods, environment and wellbeing for more than six months.

The residents made the appeal during a visit to the community on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, as they called on the Federal Government, Delta State Government, Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL) and relevant regulatory agencies to urgently intervene in the situation.

The community also appealed for the immediate commencement of a comprehensive cleanup of the affected environment, alongside the provision of adequate relief materials to residents whose livelihoods have reportedly been disrupted by the pollution.

During the visit, relief items reportedly provided by HEOSL were displayed in the community. The materials included bags of garri and rice, cartons of groundnut oil, tubers of yam and rams.

However, residents expressed disappointment over the quantity of the items, insisting that they were insufficient to meet the needs of the numerous households affected by the spill.

A woman leader, who pleaded anonymity, said the community was not merely seeking food but demanding what she described as its rights and adequate intervention to address the consequences of the pollution.

“We are not begging for food. What we are demanding for is our right which must be given to us. Unless more relief materials are coming, these ones are inadequate to go round,” she said.

The Odidi Youth President, Comrade Meneko Friday, acknowledged the relief intervention by Heritage Energy but said the materials provided could not adequately cushion the hardship experienced by residents.

“We appreciate that some relief materials have been brought, but what was provided is not enough considering the number of people affected and the period we have been living with the consequences of this spill,” he said.

According to him, the immediate priority should go beyond temporary relief to the restoration of the polluted environment.

“But more importantly, what we need urgently is a proper cleanup of our environment. We also need medical professionals to come and assess the health of our people because we have been exposed to this situation for too long,” Meneko added.

The youth leader appealed directly to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene in the crisis and ensure that residents of the creek community also benefit from government programmes.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Ukodo is your title. Please bring Ukodo to us in the creek, we are begging you. Let us also enjoy the dividends of your administration because we are suffering,” he appealed.

He further warned that continued neglect could deepen the hardship being experienced by the people, stressing that the peaceful disposition of the community should not be mistaken for an absence of suffering.

The residents said the environmental impact of the spill was particularly concerning because many members of the community depend on fishing, waterways and other natural resources for their livelihoods.

They therefore called for an independent assessment of the affected areas to establish the extent and cause of the pollution and determine the appropriate remediation measures.

The community also appealed to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and other relevant federal and state authorities to visit the affected locations, conduct proper investigations and ensure that the polluted environment is effectively cleaned and restored.

Another major concern raised by the residents was the possible health implications of prolonged exposure to the polluted environment.

They called for the immediate deployment of qualified medical personnel to conduct health assessments, particularly for children, women, elderly persons and other residents who may have been exposed to the affected environment.

The community further urged Heritage Energy to intensify engagement with residents and community leadership while increasing the volume of relief materials being distributed to affected households.While appreciating the intervention already made, the indigenes maintained that relief materials alone could not resolve the crisis.

They insisted that the ultimate solution must involve the restoration of the environment, protection of aquatic resources and measures to safeguard the livelihoods of people who depend on the creek for survival.

As the community continues to wait for a lasting solution, residents are appealing for urgent and coordinated action from Heritage Energy, the Federal Government, Delta State Government and relevant environmental and petroleum regulatory authorities.

For the people of Odidi, the message is clear: the spill is not just an environmental incident; it is a threat to their homes, livelihoods and future.

Their cry is for immediate relief, medical intervention, environmental cleanup and a lasting solution to the oil spill crisis.

Bekenawei made the declaration while speaking on his vision for Warri Federal Constituency, stressing that the constituency’s ethnic and cultural diversity should be regarded as a strength rather than a source of division.

The NDC candidate said the future of Warri Federal Constituency depended largely on the ability of its people to work together, irrespective of ethnic background, political affiliation or location.

According to him, the constituency has enormous human, natural and economic potential, but unlocking these opportunities would require a united people who are prepared to put the collective interest above sectional considerations.

“The unity of our ethnic groups is key to the development of Warri Federal Constituency. We are stronger when we stand together, and we can achieve much more when we see ourselves first as brothers and stakeholders in one constituency,” Bekenawei said.

He emphasised that the constituency belongs to all its people, noting that every ethnic group and community has a legitimate stake in its development and should be carried along in decisions affecting the area.

Bekenawei, who has consistently presented himself as a grassroots-oriented politician, said his vision of representation would be anchored on inclusiveness, consultation and equal opportunity.

He said effective representation should not be about favouring one community or ethnic group over another, but about ensuring that the needs of all communities are properly identified and pursued at the appropriate levels of government.

“I will not be a representative of one ethnic group. I will be a representative of Warri Federal Constituency. Our diversity must unite us, not divide us. Every community deserves to be heard, and every group deserves a sense of belonging,” he stated.

The NDC flag bearer also identified infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, healthcare, economic opportunities and improved access to government programmes as areas requiring greater attention across the constituency.

He noted that many riverine communities continue to face peculiar developmental challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and limited access to essential services, stressing that these challenges could only be effectively addressed through a coordinated approach that brings all stakeholders together.

Bekenawei further called for stronger cooperation between traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women, professionals, business owners and political actors, saying development should be treated as a collective responsibility.

He said his experience in grassroots leadership had taught him that meaningful development was achieved when communities worked together and leaders remained accessible to the people.

The NDC candidate also urged the people of Warri Federal Constituency to reject politics of division and embrace issue-based politics that would encourage healthy competition while preserving the peace and unity of the constituency.

“Politics should never destroy the relationships that bind us together. Elections will come and go, but our communities will remain. We must therefore compete peacefully, disagree without hatred and work together after elections for the progress of our people,” he added.

Bekenawei said he was seeking the mandate of the people not merely to occupy a seat at the National Assembly, but to provide a platform through which the diverse voices of Warri Federal Constituency could receive stronger representation.

He expressed confidence that with unity, strategic leadership and a clear development agenda, Warri Federal Constituency could achieve greater visibility and attract more developmental opportunities.

His position comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties and candidates increasingly reaching out to communities across Warri Federal Constituency.

For Bekenawei, the central message is that the constituency’s diversity should become its greatest political and developmental asset, with unity serving as the foundation for a more prosperous future.