News From Nigeria
Abuja High Court vacates order surreptitiously obtained by illegal Okpe Union
The Okpe Union has inaugurated a new board of trustees (BoT).
The event was held on Sunday at the Okpe Union headquarters in Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital.
Top Okpe leaders, including the President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe, attended the inauguration.
‘’We are gathered here today, at the National Headquarters and Registered Office of the Okpe Union, No. 65, Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State, to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union, as ordered by the Federal High Court, Lagos. On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you all to this historic event, which opens a new page in the glorious History of the Okpe Union; the oldest registered Ethnic Union in Nigeria. The Trustees we are appointing today will fill the missing page in the governance structure of the Okpe Union’’ President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe said during the inauguration.
Those inaugurated include Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Atarhe-Abuh as Chairperson and Barrister Felix Orere as secretary.
Mr. Bernard Adibor, Ms. Dora Omuvwie, Mr. Patrick Akpotor, Mrs. Florence Oseragbaje, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Hon. Patrick Ovwile, Chief Remi Rita Onomakpome, Rev. Frank Ojogwa Ekejija and Dr. Evans Igho Akpo were also inaugurated as members of the Okpe Union Board of Trustees.
Natufe commended Okpe nationals, including those not formally members of the Okpe Union, in Nigeria and the Diaspora, for their strategic advice and selfless financial contributions which have sustained the union in its advocacy for good governance and the rule of law in Okpe Nation.
‘’Together, we are a united force for the growth and development of the Okpe Nation. And together with other indigenous ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, we will define the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism where each ethnic nationality exercises its sovereignty in a truly Federal Republic of Nigeria’’.
He said ‘’On April 30, 2024, the Federal High of Nigeria sitting in Abuja (Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/395) vacated its earlier order which was surreptitiously obtained by the illegal group of the Okpe Union and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge their names from the CAC’s records.
‘’The order granted us, the legitimate Okpe Union, the authority to appoint new Trustees for the Okpe Union. The ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja is consistent with the earlier judgement of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), which had declared the leadership appointed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Kingdom, on October 3, 2020, as illegal on January 19, 2023’’.
While the judgement of the Federal High Court Lagos had already nullified and voided the illegal group’s Board of Trustees, the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja pointedly paved the path for the legitimate leadership of the Okpe Union to appoint new Trustees for Okpe Union.
On October 27, 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union filed a motion before the Honourable Justice Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, praying the Honourable Court to grant Okpe Union leave to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of the Okpe Union.
At the Federal High Court of Nigeria in the Lagos Judicial Division on Wednesday, the 14th day of January, 2026 before his lordship Hon. Justice Y. Bogoro, via Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/1153/2025, leave was granted to the Okpe Union “to convene a meeting and appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union in line with the Provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020” and for “the Corporate Affairs Commission to register the Trustees to be appointed by the Applicant upon satisfaction with the Provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act”.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Atarhe-Abuh described the inauguration of the Board of Trustees as a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union.
‘’I stand before you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and responsibility, following the successful inauguration of our Board of Trustees at this meeting today Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, held here at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos. This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed in me and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees. Your trust is both inspiring and humbling, and we do not take it for granted’’.
She expressed her appreciation to all members of the Okpe Union worldwide.
‘’Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to the ideals of our Union have made this day possible. Your dedication to preserving our heritage, fostering unity and advancing the welfare of the Okpe people remains the bedrock of our collective success’’.
The BOT Chairperson promised to discharge her duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness
‘’On behalf of my colleagues on the Board of Trustees, I hereby formally accept this appointment. We do so with a full understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to us and with a firm resolve to discharge our duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness. We are committed to upholding the constitution of the Okpe Union and safeguarding its values for present and future generations.
She also pledged to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders.
‘’We recognize that the progress of our Union depends on collaboration and mutual respect among all its organs. In this regard, we pledge to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders. Together, we shall strive to strengthen the structures of our Union, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that our programmes and initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of the Okpe people’’.
Her words: ‘’At a time when unity and purposeful leadership are most needed, we must rise above individual differences and focus on our shared vision. The Okpe Union must continue to serve as a beacon of hope, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement for our people. We are determined to contribute meaningfully towards this noble cause. Let me also acknowledge the efforts of those who have served before us. Their dedication and sacrifices have laid a solid foundation upon which we now build. We are inspired by their legacy and committed to sustaining and surpassing the standards they have set’’.
She called upon every member of the Okpe Union to remain actively engaged and supportive.
‘’The strength of our Union lies in our unity, and together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. I assure you that we shall serve with utmost sincerity and in the best interest of the Okpe people at all times’’ she added.
A WELCOME ADDRESS TO DELEGATES AT THE COURT ORDERED MEETING TO APPOINT NEW TRUSTEES FOR THE INCORPORATED TRUSTEES OF THE OKPE UNION BY PROF. O. IGHO NATUFE,
PRESIDENT GENERAL, OKPE UNION
SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2026
Introduction
On April 30, 2024, the Federal High of Nigeria sitting in Abuja (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/395) vacated its earlier order which was surreptitiously obtained by the illegal group of the Okpe Union and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge their names from the CAC’s records. The order granted us, the legitimate Okpe Union, the authority to appoint new Trustees for the Okpe Union. The ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja is consistent with the earlier judgement of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), which had declared the leadership appointed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Kingdom, on October 3, 2020, as illegal on January 19, 2023. While the judgement of the Federal High Court Lagos had already nullified and voided the illegal group’s Board of Trustees, the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja pointedly paved the path for us, the legitimate leadership of the Okpe Union to appoint new Trustees for Okpe Union.
On October 27, 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union filed a motion before the Honourable Justice Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, praying the Honourable Court to grant Okpe Union leave to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of the Okpe Union.
At the Federal High Court of Nigeria in the Lagos Judicial Division on Wednesday, the 14th day of January, 2026 before his lordship Hon. Justice Y. Bogoro, via Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/1153/2025, leave was granted to the Okpe Union “to convene a meeting and appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union in line with the Provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020” and for “the Corporate Affairs Commission to register the Trustees to be appointed by the Applicant upon satisfaction with the Provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act”.
Redemption Path
We are gathered here today, at the National Headquarters and Registered Office of the Okpe Union, No. 65, Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State, to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union, as ordered by the Federal High Court, Lagos. On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you all to this historic event, which opens a new page in the glorious History of the Okpe Union; the oldest registered Ethnic Union in Nigeria. The Trustees we are appointing today will fill the missing page in the governance structure of the Okpe Union.
We thank Okpe nationals, including those not formally members of the Okpe Union, in Nigeria and the Diaspora, for their strategic advice and selfless financial contributions which have sustained us in our advocacy for good governance and the rule of law in Okpe Nation. Together, we are a united force for the growth and development of the Okpe Nation. And together with other indigenous ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, we will define the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism where each ethnic nationality exercises its sovereignty in a truly Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you for being here.
Long live the Okpe Nation.
Long live the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.
Long live the Okpe Union.
OKPE UNION INAUGURATES NEW BOT
The Okpe Union has inaugurated a new board of trustees (BoT).
The event was held on Sunday at the Okpe Union headquarters in Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital.
Top Okpe leaders, including the President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe, attended the inauguration.
‘’We are gathered here today, at the National Headquarters and Registered Office of the Okpe Union, No. 65, Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State, to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union, as ordered by the Federal High Court, Lagos. On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you all to this historic event, which opens a new page in the glorious History of the Okpe Union; the oldest registered Ethnic Union in Nigeria. The Trustees we are appointing today will fill the missing page in the governance structure of the Okpe Union’’ President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe said during the inauguration.
Those inaugurated include Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Atarhe-Abuh as Chairperson and Barrister Felix Orere as secretary.
Mr. Bernard Adibor, Ms. Dora Omuvwie, Mr. Patrick Akpotor, Mrs. Florence Oseragbaje, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Hon. Patrick Ovwile, Chief Remi Rita Onomakpome, Rev. Frank Ojogwa Ekejija and Dr. Evans Igho Akpo were also inaugurated as members of the Okpe Union Board of Trustees.
Natufe commended Okpe nationals, including those not formally members of the Okpe Union, in Nigeria and the Diaspora, for their strategic advice and selfless financial contributions which have sustained the union in its advocacy for good governance and the rule of law in Okpe Nation.
‘’Together, we are a united force for the growth and development of the Okpe Nation. And together with other indigenous ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, we will define the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism where each ethnic nationality exercises its sovereignty in a truly Federal Republic of Nigeria’’.
He said ‘’On April 30, 2024, the Federal High of Nigeria sitting in Abuja (Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/395) vacated its earlier order which was surreptitiously obtained by the illegal group of the Okpe Union and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge their names from the CAC’s records.
‘’The order granted us, the legitimate Okpe Union, the authority to appoint new Trustees for the Okpe Union. The ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja is consistent with the earlier judgement of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), which had declared the leadership appointed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Kingdom, on October 3, 2020, as illegal on January 19, 2023’’.
While the judgement of the Federal High Court Lagos had already nullified and voided the illegal group’s Board of Trustees, the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja pointedly paved the path for the legitimate leadership of the Okpe Union to appoint new Trustees for Okpe Union.
On October 27, 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union filed a motion before the Honourable Justice Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, praying the Honourable Court to grant Okpe Union leave to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of the Okpe Union.
At the Federal High Court of Nigeria in the Lagos Judicial Division on Wednesday, the 14th day of January, 2026 before his lordship Hon. Justice Y. Bogoro, via Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/1153/2025, leave was granted to the Okpe Union “to convene a meeting and appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union in line with the Provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020” and for “the Corporate Affairs Commission to register the Trustees to be appointed by the Applicant upon satisfaction with the Provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act”.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Atarhe-Abuh described the inauguration of the Board of Trustees as a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union.
‘’I stand before you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and responsibility, following the successful inauguration of our Board of Trustees at this meeting today Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, held here at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos. This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed in me and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees. Your trust is both inspiring and humbling, and we do not take it for granted’’.
She expressed her appreciation to all members of the Okpe Union worldwide.
‘’Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to the ideals of our Union have made this day possible. Your dedication to preserving our heritage, fostering unity and advancing the welfare of the Okpe people remains the bedrock of our collective success’’.
The BOT Chairperson promised to discharge her duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness
‘’On behalf of my colleagues on the Board of Trustees, I hereby formally accept this appointment. We do so with a full understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to us and with a firm resolve to discharge our duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness. We are committed to upholding the constitution of the Okpe Union and safeguarding its values for present and future generations.
She also pledged to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders.
‘’We recognize that the progress of our Union depends on collaboration and mutual respect among all its organs. In this regard, we pledge to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders. Together, we shall strive to strengthen the structures of our Union, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that our programmes and initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of the Okpe people’’.
Her words: ‘’At a time when unity and purposeful leadership are most needed, we must rise above individual differences and focus on our shared vision. The Okpe Union must continue to serve as a beacon of hope, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement for our people. We are determined to contribute meaningfully towards this noble cause. Let me also acknowledge the efforts of those who have served before us. Their dedication and sacrifices have laid a solid foundation upon which we now build. We are inspired by their legacy and committed to sustaining and surpassing the standards they have set’’.
She called upon every member of the Okpe Union to remain actively engaged and supportive.
‘’The strength of our Union lies in our unity, and together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. I assure you that we shall serve with utmost sincerity and in the best interest of the Okpe people at all times’’ she added.
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH DELIVERED BY THE CHAIRPERSON, BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OKPE UNION, MRS ATARHE ABUH AT THE OCCASION OF THE INAUGURATION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES HELD ON SUNDAY, 22ND MARCH, 2026, AT OKPE HOUSE, 65 MOSHALASHI STREET, OBALENDE, IKOYI, LAGOS STATE
Distinguished elders, esteemed members of the National Executive Council, respected leaders of our great Union, and cherished members of the Okpe Union across the globe,
I stand before you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and responsibility, following the successful inauguration of our Board of Trustees at this meeting today Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, held here at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos.
This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed in me and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees. Your trust is both inspiring and humbling, and we do not take it for granted.
I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to all members of the Okpe Union worldwide. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to the ideals of our Union have made this day possible. Whether at home or in the diaspora, your dedication to preserving our heritage, fostering unity, and advancing the welfare of the Okpe people remains the bedrock of our collective success.
On behalf of my colleagues on the Board of Trustees, I hereby formally accept this appointment. We do so with a full understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to us and with a firm resolve to discharge our duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness. We are committed to upholding the constitution of the Okpe Union and safeguarding its values for present and future generations.
We recognise that the progress of our Union depends on collaboration and mutual respect among all its organs. In this regard, we pledge to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders. Together, we shall strive to strengthen the structures of our Union, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that our programmes and initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of the Okpe people.
At a time when unity and purposeful leadership are most needed, we must rise above individual differences and focus on our shared vision. The Okpe Union must continue to serve as a beacon of hope, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement for our people. We are determined to contribute meaningfully towards this noble cause.
Let me also acknowledge the efforts of those who have served before us. Their dedication and sacrifices have laid a solid foundation upon which we now build. We are inspired by their legacy and committed to sustaining and surpassing the standards they have set.
As we move forward, I call upon every member of the Okpe Union to remain actively engaged and supportive. The strength of our Union lies in our unity, and together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
In conclusion, I once again thank you for this great honour. I assure you that we shall serve with utmost sincerity and in the best interest of the Okpe people at all times.
May our Union continue to flourish, and may we remain united in purpose and progress.
Thank you, and God bless the Okpe Union.
Long live the Orodje of Okpe
Long live Okpe Kingdom
Long live Nigeria
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sends profound condolences to former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, on the loss of his beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, who passed away today in Cairo, after an illness.
President Tinubu described the late matriarch of the El-Rufai family as a mother who lived a remarkable life and raised children and grandchildren who have contributed greatly to our nation.
“Nasir, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, which happened today in Cairo. As someone who had also lost an old mother, I share in your grief. I understand the depth of your loss.
“Losing a mother is a pain unlike any other. I know that no words can fully ease your sorrow, but I pray that the memories of her love, wisdom, and guidance bring you comfort in the days ahead. I also hope you find strength in the remarkable life she lived and the values she instilled in the entire family.
“ As firm believers in Allah, we are convinced that she has played her part in this world as laid out for her by the Almighty and has gone back to her maker.
“I join family, friends, and well-wishers in mourning with you. May Allah grant your dear mother Aljannah Firdaus,” President Tinubu adds.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
March 27, 2026
As part of its ongoing commitment to community development and social welfare, leading glass and aluminium solutions provider ABUMET, has carried out a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) outreach to the FCT School for the Blind in Abuja.
ABUMET has consistently distinguished itself as a company driven by people-focused impact, particularly within the education sector, where strategic interventions can transform lives. This recent outreach further reinforces the company’s values and strengthens its connection with communities that benefit from its initiatives.
As part of the visit, the company donated essential learning materials, including braille paper, a typewriter, and a talking calculator—items that will significantly enhance the students’ educational experience. For visually impaired learners, these tools are not merely supportive aids but vital instruments that promote independence, confidence, and academic advancement. The gesture, therefore, represents not just an act of giving but a meaningful investment in the intellectual growth and empowerment of the students.
Beyond the donations, the outreach focused on building genuine connections. ABUMET representatives engaged with both students and staff, gaining deeper insight into their daily experiences, challenges, and aspirations. The interaction fostered a warm and respectful atmosphere, with students expressing visible excitement and appreciation. For many, the visit served as a source of encouragement and renewed motivation.
Speaking during the visit, the General Manager of ABUMET, Diemo Schillack, highlighted the motivation behind the initiative:
“We make it a point to visit schools within our country, and this year, we chose your school.”
His remarks underscored the company’s deliberate effort to support institutions serving persons with special needs, guided by a strong sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully where support is most needed.
Providing historical context, the General Duties Assistant of the institution, Jonathan Momoh, explained that the school was established in 2001 within the premises of the Federal College of Education, FCT, before relocating to its permanent site in Jabi, Abuja, in 2007. He noted that the relocation marked a significant turning point, improving infrastructure, learning conditions, and the overall academic structure of the school.
In her response, the Head of School, Hajia Hamzat, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, stating that the donated materials would greatly support the students’ academic development and overall well-being. She described the intervention as both timely and impactful, particularly in a learning environment where access to specialised materials is essential.
Other members of staff also expressed gratitude, noting that such interventions help bridge critical resource gaps and equip students with the tools needed to compete academically with their peers nationwide. They emphasised the importance of sustained private-sector partnerships in promoting inclusive education and ensuring that no group is left behind.
The ABUMET delegation to the outreach included the General Manager, Diemo Schillack; Brand Marketing Coordinator, Esther Duruibe; Human Resource Manager, Tolulope Gbadamosi; Head of Procurement, Okechukwu Juliet Chizoba; Contract Manager, Ufuoma Alile, among others.
US-based family medicine physician, Dr. Austin Orette, on Friday reiterated his vision and plans for the Delta South Senatorial District.
“I will provide job opportunities for our citizens and ensure that the Delta South Senatorial District is well represented in issues appearing before the Senate’
In a message to the wonderful people of Delta South Senatorial District, Orette promised to utilize his contacts in the global community to supplement the efforts of the state government in attracting investments and employment opportunities.
Titled: “Putting the people first”, Orette promised to build a new and strong bridge of prosperity and dignity for Delta South.
“I wish to assure you of my readiness to work and make sacrifices for the senatorial zone. I will make you proud”
The senatorial hopeful listed legal reforms, health care, agriculture, security and restructuring as areas to focus on as a senator.
“The lack of the rule of law has led to our present state of insecurity. Our people need modern hospitals and well-trained staff to attend to them. The building is not a hospital. It is the manpower that is well trained that makes a good hospital. Good and affordable healthcare will reduce the high disease burden amongst our people. We must restructure Nigeria so that our people can take their destiny in their hands. Our District is a gas and oil field but we have no industry that can generate electricity for our people. We cannot be part of modern society without electricity. Providing electricity is necessary to create jobs for our unemployed youth. We must use modern methods of farming and make famine a thing of the past. I will create opportunities; ensure security and abundant living for our people”
He urged the people of the senatorial zone not to settle for past mediocrity that turned politics into a den of criminals.
“Those who are there gained positions through brigandage and they have given nothing back to the voters. The present leaders cannot solve the problems because they are not intellectually equipped to do that. They take orders from those who are not familiar with our terrain and as such have marginalized the Delta South which should be the Bread basket of Nigeria”
He also urged the people to change bench warmers in the National Assembly.
“In a democracy, we have the responsibility to vote out those who have disappointed us by not knowing the reason they were elected. Let us take this responsibility seriously. Those there now are serving themselves while the majority of us are wallowing in abject poverty. We must change our narrative. We cannot afford to continue doing the same over and over and expect a different result. We must as a matter of urgency change the leaders who don’t understand the problems and have no capacity to extricate us from our doldrums”
Particularly, he advised the people to support his senatorial ambition.
“Nigerians believe that supporting my senatorial aspiration is in the best interest of the senatorial zone. I urge you to give massive support. I also urge you to serve as a volunteer by using word of mouth to spread the message of hope so we can be victorious in this endeavor and rekindle hope for the progress and development of our dear senatorial district”
Orette stressed that he stands tall and remains the most competent and qualified aspirant among others.
“I am knowledgeable and well equipped for this task. I am imploring you to volunteer for this project. Sensitize people to the urgency of this moment. This is going to be the most important message of this era. If you want things to change, then you must join me in this endeavor. I want you to elect me to be the voice for your aspiration” he said.
Ending the message, Orette said “Having seen Delta South degenerate into a depth of economic, social and political degradation, I believe the best way to recover the soul of the senatorial district and find a remedy to the problems is to give this important task to a man that possesses the vision, political wisdom, courage and humility”
FOUNDATION CALLS ERNEST IKOLI CRUSADER OF TRUTH, SYMBOL OF THE STRUGGLE AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
A Nigerian politician, nationalist and pioneering journalist, Chief Ernest Ikoli, has been described as a crusader of truth and a symbol of the struggle against oppression and discrimination in Nigeria.
‘”Chief Ernest Ikoli was a reformer, politician and a great journalist. He campaigned for the birth of the Second Republic and departed, saying his work was done with the attainment of the country’s political independence”.
The former assistant editor of Lagos Weekly Record, first editor of the Daily Times of Nigeria and publisher of African Messenger was also praised for helping to create the Marcus Garvey Universal Negro Improvement Association, People’s Union, Nigeria Youth Movement and the Action Group.
‘”Chief Ernest Ikoli saw all Africans as one. There was no Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba or Ijaw. There was only one Nigeria, one Africa and one destiny”
The commendation was showered on the patriot, nationalist and educationist by the Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation.
The Ernest Ikoli Foundation in a birthday statement Wednesday hailed the foremost journalist for facilitating the exercise of virtues in politicians and labour leaders, creating good journalists in the country, changing lives and advancing the struggles for the independence of Nigeria from British colony rule.
“Chief Ernest Ikoli was endowed with exceptional powers and qualities. He was a good man, a courageous man and an inspiration to many”
The statement celebrating the life of a great Nigerian citizen was signed by the Executive Vice Chairman of Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation, Chief Anthony George-Ikoli (SAN).
The statement applauded the frontline political leader and great journalist for advocating steps towards the emancipation of the people, arguing strongly for an end to colonialism and imperialism, creating a number of fantastic networks and influencing the political class in a more egalitarian direction.
The foundation also extolled Ernest Ikoli for putting forward a programme for the development of Nigeria, opening of government to a wider social circle, ending external rule and improving the conditions of workers and institutions through protests and legislations.
‘”Chief Ernest Ikoli wanted a united, industrialized and economically self-reliant nation”
The statement highlighted Ikoli’s eclectic interests, vision of harmonious future, organizational strength, intellectual depth, stable leadership, Christian principles of love of God and man.
“Chief Ernest Ikoli was a bright, amiable and undaunted fellow”
The statement emphasized the magnificent oratory and sense of moderation of the prolific writer of politics, economics and social history.
“Chief Ernest Ikoli was firmly committed to representative democracy and open government”
The statement also underscored his extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity.
Chief Ernest Ikoli was one of the activists of Nigeria’s political history that fought alongside great nationalist leaders like Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello in the struggle for the political independence of Nigeria.
Born on March 25, 1893 in Nembe, the patriot, nationalist and political thinker died on Friday, October 21, 1960 at the age of 67 and was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery.
OZORO VICTIMS: ORETTE CALLS FOR FAIR, UNIMPEDED ACCESS TO JUSTICE
An All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial aspirant in Delta South, Dr. Austin Orette, has described the assault of women in Oruamudhu community, Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area as the ascendancy of evil in the society and a violation of human rights.
‘’It tells us that much still need to be done to truly educate the people on the need to abolish barbaric culture’’
In a statement titled ‘’No to sexual abuse in Delta South Senatorial District’’, Orettee criticized individuals and groups disrupting social cohesion in Isoko North Local Government Area.
He demanded stronger protections for women and children in Delta State.
‘’The Delta State Government owes it to the victims to take immediate action’’ he said.
Particularly, Orette condemned harmful practices and the debasing of women in public.
‘’The community must not turn a blind eye to these atrocities’’
The senatorial hopeful also called for fair and unimpeded access to justice by the victims.
‘’The onus is on the government to strengthen the rule of law and to ensure that there is proper investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators”
‘’Delivering justice to victims sends a clear message of zero tolerance with such crimes and helps to stop their recurrence”
He comforted the victims of the Ozoro rape festival.
‘’These crimes must be punished and those responsible must be held accountable’’.
All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Hopeful, Dr Austin Orette, will on Friday speak on the future of Delta South Senatorial District.
Orette, who is running for next year’s Senate Election, will be in Isoko South, Isoko North, Burutu, Bomadi, Patani, Warri South, Warri North and Warri South-West as part of a series of town halls across the senatorial district.
‘’Dr. Austin Orette will hold talks with leaders and stakeholders on March 27, 28, and 29 in Owhelogbo , Ozoro, Oleh and Patani’’ a statement released by the Director of Communications, MediaGate Nigeria, Henry Ebireri said.
Orette declared his intention to contest for the Delta South Senatorial Seat in the 2027 National Assembly Elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) early 2026.
He outlined a vision focused on using his professional skills to empower constituents and reform governance.
He also vowed to fight for a new constitution that decentralizes power from Abuja and empowers local citizens.
His platform includes setting up digital libraries, retraining artisans (welders, carpenters, and mechanics) with modern tools, and encouraging vocational education.
Titled “The way forward”, the Statement said Dr Austin Orette would shed light on healthcare, education, and legal reforms in Nigeria.
“Dr Austin Orette intends to introduce modern equipment and extension services to make the senatorial zone self-sufficient in food production’’
According to Ebireri, a wide demographic of Delta South residents, including students, market women and government officials are expected to gather in Patani on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Orette, who recently promised a more active, service-oriented leadership, is expected to have a strong crowd response from stakeholders in Warri, Koko, Ogbe-Ijoh, Burutu and Bomadi.
‘’The town hall is significant as a chance to hear Dr. Austin Orette talk in person’’
The statement urged Delta South stakeholders to attend the town hall meeting.
‘’The good people of Delta South will get to know Dr Orette and what he actually stands for. We believe by going out to hear Dr Austin Orette speak, people will get a better understanding that he is dedicated to what he’s talking about. Dr. Austin Orette genuinely wants to better Delta South and he believes that his policies are the way forward.”
’The statement said the floor would be opened up to questions and comments from the constituents.
‘’It is also an opportunity for the stakeholders to voice their own opinions and be better represented. Constituents will have the opportunity to hear from Dr. Austin Orette and participate in a question-and-answer session’’ the statement added.