News From Nigeria
The Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon Felix Aganbi, has urged foreign investors to come forward and avail themselves of the opportunities in Koko Town.
‘’A number of industries have been set to make maximum use of the available agricultural and mineral based raw materials. Koko Town has become synonymous with industrial development’’
He also urged chief executives and managers of private organizations in the country to show the people of Delta State how committed they are to the development and promotion of sports in Nigeria.
‘’Individuals and groups alike, must support Canaan Land Golf & Country Club in seeking the honour and glories sporting brings to the country, particularly Delta State’’
In a statement in Koko, headquarters of Warri North Local Government, Aganbi said positive steps have been taken towards providing the necessary standard sporting facilities in Koko Town
Aganbi, who is also the Chairman of Canaan Land Golf & Country Club, expressed the happiness of the management and members of Canaan Land Golf & Country Club at celebrating the second anniversary on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
‘’The one-day event marks our club’s two-year anniversary and expands our horizons beyond golf to include badminton, table tennis and darts’’
The statement emphasized networking and socializing, skill development, health and wellness, career advancement and exposure.
‘’As part of the activities, we will host a special anniversary ceremony to reflect our growth, complete with refreshments and networking. Additionally, we will be incorporating a give-back medical outreach program focused on eye care and full health checkups at our Christiana Aganbi Sickbay
The business mogul urged the federal government to contribute towards the development of sports by complementing Canaan Land Golf & Country Club efforts.
‘’Our goal for this event and beyond includes strengthening community ties, promoting wellness and showcasing the potential and opportunity in Koko town through the Canaan Land Smart City, a sustainable development featuring eco-friendly residences, a tech hub, wellness facilities and tourism attractions
The statement also emphasized love, unity and development
‘’The high profile event will be a pleasant and memorable one to athletes, enthusiasts, investors and community leaders’’ the statement added.
President Bola Tinubu has been applauded for putting Nigeria on the path of sustainable development.
He was also commended for fashioning appropriate diplomatic, economic and military instruments of power for protecting national interests and tackling domestic challenges.
‘’President Bola Tinubu is addressing the nation’s key issues’’
The commendation came from the Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon Felix Aganbi.
Aganbi in a New Year message applauded President Tinubu for creating an investment-friendly climate.
He praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for his vision, efficiency, transparency, doggedness and commitment to the tested tenets of good governance.
The business mogul urged local and foreign investors to look into the possibility of establishing industries in Koko, headquarters of Warri North Local Government.
‘’The attraction of private sector investment into Koko, headquarters of Warri North Local Government, is a matter of high priority in Akogate Group and Canaanland Golf & Country Club’’
He urged Nigerians and foreigners to deepen their bond with the Koko growth story.
‘’Land is not a problem in Koko’’
Aganbi who is also the chairman of Canaanland Golf & Country Club urged members of the club to play their roles in the tasks ahead.
‘‘Our assignment is to ensure the unity and progress of Canaanland Golf & Country Club. We will continue working for the interest of all the members. We will continue promoting cooperation, understanding and mutual help among members. We will seek collaborative arrangements with government and private sector operators’’
He commended the members for their commitment and excellent contributions in 2025.
‘’I believe that the spirit of unity which exists in Canaanland Golf and Country Club will enable us to achieve our set goals in 2026. It is therefore with pleasure that I express the executive committee’s appreciation of the suggestions and contributions of members of this club. We are grateful to all’’.
He expressed gratitude to everyone that contributed to the growth of Akogate Group in 2025.
‘’Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with joy, laughter and success’’ he added.
January 1, 2026.
Introduction
Fellow Okpe Citizens I greet you all. Ekpako mẹ, mi di ghwẹn. I bring you fraternal greetings from the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpẹ Union.
It gives me profound joy and a sense of civic responsibility to issue this *NEW YEAR MESSAGE TO OKPE NATION* on behalf of the NEC and the world wide membership of the Okpẹ Union.
First and foremost, we give thanks to God for his blessings and guidance as we successfully navigated our paths in our respective endeavours throughout the year 2025. Second, we pray for God’s continued blessings and guidance in the New Year, 2026 and beyond.
While we pray for ourselves, our families and neighbours, we also pray to God to grant us the will to forge a strong unity of purpose as a People to work collaboratively in our pursuit of the growth and development of Okpẹ Nation, a task which is fundamental to the ideological construct of the Okpẹ Union. As the mouthpiece of the Okpẹ Nation, Okpẹ Union shall remain steadfast on its historical mission of facilitating the independence of Okpẹ Nation, which is to struggle for the recognition of Okpẹ as a distinct ethnic nationality, and not an appendage of any other ethnic nationality.
*The Year 2025*
2025 has been a landmark year for the Okpẹ Nation. One defined by unity, resilience, and purposeful remembrance. Most notably, we proudly commemorated the 95th Anniversary of the establishment of the Okpẹ Union on May 16, a historic milestone that honoured our roots, reaffirmed our identity, and strengthened our collective resolve as a people.Held at the registered national headquarters of the Okpẹ Union in Obalende, Lagos, the Anniversary was attended by members from all branches in Nigeria and from the Diaspora. I thank God for making it possible for me to physically attend this august celebration and to preside over it. The positive vibes at the event were electric, and guided by our ancestors.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to every member whose dedication, sacrifice, and collaboration made the 95th Anniversary, as well as all the other efforts and activities of the Union, a success. Your efforts, seen and unseen, contributed immensely to this feat and to the continued growth and relevance of the Okpẹ Union. Members across Nigeria and in the Diaspora worked tirelessly in rendering their altruistic services to the Okpẹ Union and Okpẹ Nation. In the face of endogenous and exogenous challenges and distractions, our members remained resolute. Mention must also be made of the invaluable financial and moral support we enjoyed from several Okpẹ nationals, non-members of the Union, in support of our activities since 2021.
Okpẹ Union was actively involved in numerous activities throughout 2025. These engagements spread across invitational meetings, celebrations and call to action. Okpẹ Union continues to play critical roles in both the Movement for National Reformation (MNR) and The Rebirth Group (TRG); both national organizations that are actively engaged in the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism. As a stakeholder in TRG, Okpẹ Union participated in its maiden symposium in Ibadan, in May 2024. Subsequently, in 2025, we participated in TRG Symposia on political restructuring of Nigeria, in Enugu, Gombe, and Port Harcourt, in July, October and December, respectively.
The Union took part in several social and community engagements, including funerals, weddings, and other important events. These representations were carried out by members of the NEC, Okpẹ Union branches and in some cases, both organs. We participated in the burial ceremonies of our brother and mentor, Rev. Dr. Charles E. Osume, an illustrious son of Okpẹ Nation and an unwavering advocate of Okpẹ Identity in March 2025. Overall, Okpẹ Union performed admirably in 2025, demonstrating commitment, progress, and strong visibility across various engagements. Our branches have solidified their positions while some have engaged in initiatives geared towards the growth and promotion of Okpẹ Identity. In this regard, we commend the South West Region for the following initiatives:
Plans are in place for other Branches to emulate the South West Region. We are also working on plans to open new branches of the Union in 2026.
Another major activity of the year 2025 is the progress recorded in ongoing court cases, which have continued to yield positive outcomes for the Union. This reflects the Union’s determination and commitment to protecting its interests through legal intervention.We shall continue our legal actions against the contemnors as a just and legal avenue to the restoration of democracy and good governance in Okpẹ Nation.
During the preceding year, the Union was compelled by several factors to address pressing issues affecting the Okpẹ people in the media. Some of these media engagements clarified deliberate distortion of facts regarding Okpẹ Identity. The Union was very active in the media space, either in the social media or mainstream media. These media visibility has positioned the Okpẹ Union as a strategic group among ethnic nationalities in Nigeria capable of championing and protecting the collective interests of the people at home and in the Diaspora.
*OKPE UNION AND OKPE KINGDOM*
While we reiterate our profound reverence for the Okpẹ Throne, we remain resolute in our defence of democratic tenets and good governance in Okpẹ Nation. We also reiterate our firm view that Okpẹ Kingdom is not an absolute monarchy where a monarch’s pronouncements are considered “final” even when they violate basic democratic norms. We recognize that to toe the path of *TRUTH* is a difficult choice that only a small minority with sound social consciousness can embark on. *TRUTH* can be suppressed, but can never be imprisoned.
*INTERNAL DYNAMICS*
The interference/usurpation of the role of Okpẹ Union as a registered body with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a socio-cultural cum a pressure group has limited our effectiveness, given that much financial resources have been diverted towards our court cases with the renegade group. This role amongst others is being threatened by the traditional leaders maybe for political reasons, as they now want to dictate who emerge the leaders of the Union. The recent anti-Okpẹ Identity role of HRM Orhue l, the Orodje of Okpẹ Kingdom and some of his chiefs, is a challenge which we are destined by History to overcome for the interest of the Okpẹ Nation. The Okpẹ Identity project is a task that is crucial to the entire Okpẹ people.
*OKPE UNION AND EXTERNAL IRRITANTS*
Some elements of the Itsekiri and Urhobo nationalities continue to constitute irritants to the Okpẹ Nation. The Urhobo via their nefarious WADO activities claim Okpẹ territories. We vehemently reject this as Okpẹ is not Urhobo and neither are we an appendage of any ethnic nationality.
*THE MENACE BY SOME ITSEKIRIS*
The menace by some Itsekiris is more troubling to the Okpẹ Nation. Recalling that we opened our doors to welcome Itsekiri fleeing from their civil war and offered them shelter, it now seems that our hospitality has become a curse; just as the Hausas in the north and indigenous nationalities in central Nigeria are experiencing with the Fulanis. The Itsekiri civil war, known as the “Nana war” of 1894 forced scores of Itsekiris to flee their lands and *”ran for refuge to Sapele where they were granted refuge by the Okpẹ people”*, the owners of Sapele. This was the judgement of the West African Court of Appeal (WACA), Holden at Lagos, Nigeria, on April 30th 1943, before their Honours: Sir Donald Kingdon, Chief Justice of Nigeria – President; Sir Philip Bertis Petrides, Chief Justice, Gold Coast (now Ghana), and George Graham Paul, Chief Justice, Sierra Leone.
As a nationality that prides itself as a respecter of the rule of law and court judgements, one would expect the Itsekiri Nation to honour the 1943 WACA judgement and desist from all their bogus claims on Okpẹ territories. They illegally renamed the sections they were allowed to reside as refugees with Itsekiri names. For example, they changed *Etamua* to “Ogunaja”, *Amua Ogodo* to “Aja Ogodo”, and a part of Amuokpe to “Aja-Sagay”, etc. Speaking on behalf of the Itsekiri Nation, one Prince Nosa had the audacity to declare that:
*”Sapele is a local govt NOT a community. Within Sapele local govts, there are dozens of Okpe and Itsekiri communities. Itsekiri communities in Sapele local govt include Obotie, Ugbekoko, Aworun, Enaso, Adaka, Ajojiguo, Ugbosien, UtonIyatsere, Ogunaja and many others”*.
This is a blatant demonstration of reckless expansionism by some Itsekiris. The settler equates himself to the indigenes. The Okpẹ Union demands that Itsekiri leadership call to order these Itsekiri elements who denigrate the sovereignty of the Okpẹ Nation over its territories. The case of the Itsekiri threat in Sapele should be of serious concern to all Okpẹ people.
The bogus claims by some Itsekiris to indigenous communities in Okpeland especially in the areas that were constituted into the Sapele Okpẹ Sobo Forest Reserve during the Colonial Era when the Okpẹ Nation was created under the Urhobo Division, led to the setting up of a Delta State Judicial Commission of Enquiry into the Okpẹ Sobo Forest Reserve in 2020 by the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Administration. From the published Record of Proceedings of the Commission of Enquiry, the claims by the Itsekiris of Abigborodo, Obotie and others to indigenous communities in Okpẹ land were rubbished. In the turn of the New Year, the Okpẹ Union shall comprehensively bring out the contents of those revealing proceedings to the public so that once and for all, the false claims of these impostors who know the Itsekiri Communities especially in Warri North Local Government Area they hail from would be in the public domain. For the records, the Itsekiris and the Okpẹs do not have any land boundaries. The territorial boundary between Okpẹ land and Itsekiriland is the stretch of the Hole in the Wall Creek, the tributary that extends into between Sapele and Abigborodo (boundary between Sapele LGA and Warri North LGA)over which the Emmanuel Uduaghan Administration constructed a bridge, to Obotie-Ugbukurusu, to Ikeresan, to Elume River, to Erogho water side, and finally to the water boundary between Ughoton and Omadino (the boundary between Okpe LGA and Warri South LGA) over which the James Ibori Administration constructed the Ughoton-Omadino Bridge.
We call on the Okpẹ Traditional Council and political leaders, especially the chairmen of the Sapele Local Government Council (LGC) and the Okpẹ Local Government Council (LGC) and our representatives in the Delta State House of Assembly to stand up to their responsibilities as the defenders of Okpẹ sovereignty. We simultaneously call on Okpẹ political leaders, specifically Okakuro Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Okakuro Senator Ede Dafinone, Hon. Ben Etanabene, Ekakuro James Augoye and Perkins Umukoro to begin to articulate and promote Okpẹ interests in their respective portfolios. To start with, the appellation” Sapele Okpẹ Community” should be changed. It has no conceptual difference with the other ethnic communities in Sapele, for instance, the Sapele Ndigbo Community, the Sapele Yoruba Community, the Sapele Itsekiri Community, etc. It is passive. A more positive name, for example, *Sapele Indigenes Association* should be considered as it connotes a definitive and positive meaning.
*PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE*
The policy of peaceful coexistence continues to define the cornerstone of Okpẹ Union’s relationship with other ethnic nationalities. However, let it be known that, by any legitimate means possible, we will strongly defend the territories of the Okpẹ Nation against intrusions by any ethnic nationality on our sovereignty. While non-Okpẹ nationals are welcome in Okpẹ villages and towns; they must not forget that they are guests and not owners of Okpẹ land. Unlike other nationalities, some elements in the Itsekiri Nation do not seem to understand this fundamental principle of residency outside their ancestral lands. Interestingly, these Itsekiri elements will not dare to claim ownership of Ajoki, Ekehuan and Ologbo in Benin Kingdom.
*2026 AND BEYOND*
We look forward to 2026 and beyond with optimism for the future of Okpẹ Nation. We shall refine our strategic approach to better position us and our Okpẹ stakeholders in the pursuit of the recognition of Okpẹ as a distinct ethnic nationality in Delta State. This objective remains an existential challenge of the Okpẹ Nation whichOkpẹ Union was established to attain. We shall intensify our collaboration with internal and external forces for a better appreciation of the benefits of Okpẹ Identity to all parties, including the Urhobo. The two local government councils in Okpẹ Nation, Sapele LGC and Okpẹ LGC, shall be encouraged to play a pivotal role in the Redemption of the Okpẹ Nation.
We shall continue to encourage the use of Okpẹ Language in worship and the translation of Church sermons using the Okpẹ language, to enhance the Okpẹ identity and development strategy of Okpẹ Nation. We shall continue to intensify our strategic collaboration with other Okpẹ organizations, as well as with other ethnic nationalities in Delta State and Nigeria, in the realization of this noble historical imperative.
Despite the schism between the palace and Okpẹ Union, the Union appeals to the entire Okpẹ people for cooperation and unity to enhance economic development of Okpẹ Nation.
Stay tuned for further information, including NEC’s programme for the celebration of Okpẹ Union’s Founders’ (96 Years) Day on May 16, 2026.
On behalf of the Okpẹ Union I wish you and your families a Prosperous New Year, 2026.
*Prof. O. Igho Natufe,*
President General, Okpẹ Union (World Wide)
‘’The recent anti-Okpẹ Identity role of HRM Orhue l, the Orodje of Okpẹ Kingdom and some of his chiefs, is a challenge which we are destined by history to overcome for the interest of the Okpẹ Nation’’ says President General of Okpe Union Worldwide, Prof Igho Natufe.
Prof Natufe made this remark in Lagos on Thursday.
He said the union would not relent in its effort to ensure that the Okpẹ Identity project was achieved.
‘’The interference/usurpation of the role of Okpẹ Union as a registered body with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a socio-cultural cum a pressure group has limited our effectiveness, given that much financial resources have been diverted towards our court cases with the renegade group. This role amongst others is being threatened by the traditional leaders maybe for political reasons, as they now want to dictate who emerge the leaders of the Union’’.
In a New Year address to the public, Natufe observed that court cases had posed a cog in the wheel of progress of the union.
‘’Another major activity of the year 2025 is the progress recorded in ongoing court cases, which have continued to yield positive outcomes for the Union. This reflects the Union’s determination and commitment to protecting its interests through legal intervention. We shall continue our legal actions against the contemnors as a just and legal avenue to the restoration of democracy and good governance in Okpẹ Nation’’.
He told Nigerians to have a change of attitude in dealing with matters affecting the Okpe people.
‘’During the preceding year, the Union was compelled by several factors to address pressing issues affecting the Okpẹ people in the media. Some of these media engagements clarified deliberate distortion of facts regarding Okpẹ Identity. The Union was very active in the media space, either in the social media or mainstream media. These media visibility has positioned the Okpẹ Union as a strategic group among ethnic nationalities in Nigeria capable of championing and protecting the collective interests of the people at home and in the Diaspora’’.
The president general also spoke on the large turn-out during the 95th anniversary of the Okpe Union in Lagos.
‘’2025 has been a landmark year for the Okpẹ Nation. One defined by unity, resilience, and purposeful remembrance. Most notably, we proudly commemorated the 95th Anniversary of the establishment of the Okpẹ Union on May 16, a historic milestone that honoured our roots, reaffirmed our identity, and strengthened our collective resolve as a people. Held at the registered national headquarters of the Okpẹ Union in Obalende, Lagos, the Anniversary was attended by members from all branches in Nigeria and from the Diaspora. I thank God for making it possible for me to physically attend this august celebration and to preside over it. The positive vibes at the event were electric and guided by our ancestors’’.
He applauded members across Nigeria and in the Diaspora for rendering altruistic services to the Okpẹ Union and Okpẹ Nation.
‘’In the face of endogenous and exogenous challenges and distractions, our members remained resolute. Mention must also be made of the invaluable financial and moral support we enjoyed from several Okpẹ nationals, non-members of the Union, in support of our activities since 2021’’.
Natufe expressed delight at the numerous activities of the Okpe Union throughout 2025.
‘’Okpẹ Union continues to play critical roles in both the Movement for National Reformation (MNR) and The Rebirth Group (TRG); both national organizations that are actively engaged in the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism. As a stakeholder in TRG, Okpẹ Union participated in its maiden symposium in Ibadan, in May 2024. Subsequently, in 2025, we participated in TRG Symposia on political restructuring of Nigeria, in Enugu, Gombe, and Port Harcourt, in July, October and December, respectively’’.
He said Okpẹ Union performed admirably in 2025.
‘’The Union took part in several social and community engagements, including funerals, weddings, and other important events. These representations were carried out by members of the NEC, Okpẹ Union branches and in some cases, both organs. We participated in the burial ceremonies of our brother and mentor, Rev. Dr. Charles E. Osume, an illustrious son of Okpẹ Nation and an unwavering advocate of Okpẹ Identity in March 2025. Overall, , demonstrating commitment, progress, and strong visibility across various engagements. Our branches have solidified their positions while some have engaged in initiatives geared towards the growth and promotion of Okpẹ Identity’’.
Particularly, he gave Okpe Union, South-West Region a pat on the back for encouraging the young ones to participate in Okpe cultural dances and awarding bursary to Okpẹ Students in higher educational institutions.
The former university professor of political science urged other Branches to emulate the South-West Region.
‘’We are also working on plans to open new branches of the Union in 2026’’.
The Okpe Union has advised Itsekiri leaders to honour the 1943 WACA judgement and desist from all their bogus claims on Okpẹ territories.
‘’As a nationality that prides itself as a respecter of the rule of law and court judgements, one would expect the Itsekiri Nation to honour the 1943 WACA judgement and desist from all their bogus claims on Okpẹ territories’’
The union also accused the Itsekiri leaders of renaming the sections they were allowed to reside as refugees with Itsekiri names.
‘’For example, they changed Etamua to Ogunaja”, Amua Ogodo to Aja Ogodo”, and a part of Amuokpe to Aja-Sagay”.
In a New Year Message to Okpe Nation, the union decried the blatant demonstration of reckless expansionism by some Itsekiris.
‘’The settler equates himself to the indigenes. The Okpẹ Union demands that Itsekiri leadership call to order these Itsekiri elements who denigrate the sovereignty of the Okpẹ Nation over its territories. The case of the Itsekiri threat in Sapele should be of serious concern to all Okpẹ people’’.
The message presented by President General of Okpe Union Worldwide, Prof Igho Natufe said the claims by the Itsekiris of Abigborodo, Obotie and others to indigenous communities in Okpẹ land were rubbished by the Delta State Judicial Commission of Enquiry into the Okpẹ Sobo Forest Reserve in 2020.
‘’The bogus claims by some Itsekiris to indigenous communities in Okpeland especially in the areas that were constituted into the Sapele Okpẹ Sobo Forest Reserve during the Colonial Era when the Okpẹ Nation was created under the Urhobo Division, led to the setting up of a Delta State Judicial Commission of Enquiry into the Okpẹ Sobo Forest Reserve in 2020 by the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Administration. From the published Record of Proceedings of the Commission of Enquiry, the claims by the Itsekiris of Abigborodo, Obotie and others to indigenous communities in Okpẹ land were rubbished’’
According to the Union, the Itsekiris and the Okpẹs do not have any land boundaries.
‘’The territorial boundary between Okpẹ land and Itsekiriland is the stretch of the Hole in the Wall Creek, the tributary that extends into between Sapele and Abigborodo (boundary between Sapele LGA and Warri North LGA)over which the Emmanuel Uduaghan Administration constructed a bridge, to Obotie-Ugbukurusu, to Ikeresan, to Elume River, to Erogho water side, and finally to the water boundary between Ughoton and Omadino (the boundary between Okpe LGA and Warri South LGA) over which the James Ibori Administration constructed the Ughoton-Omadino Bridge’’.
The Union called on the Okpẹ Traditional Council and political leaders, especially the chairmen of the Sapele Local Government Council (LGC) and the Okpẹ Local Government Council (LGC) and representatives in the Delta State House of Assembly to stand up to their responsibilities as the defenders of Okpẹ sovereignty.
‘’The menace by some Itsekiris is more troubling to the Okpẹ Nation. Recalling that we opened our doors to welcome Itsekiri fleeing from their civil war and offered them shelter, it now seems that our hospitality has become a curse; just as the Hausas in the north and indigenous nationalities in central Nigeria are experiencing with the Fulanis. The Itsekiri civil war, known as the “Nana war” of 1894 forced scores of Itsekiris to flee their lands and ”ran for refuge to Sapele where they were granted refuge by the Okpẹ people”, the owners of Sapele. This was the judgement of the West African Court of Appeal (WACA), Holden at Lagos, Nigeria, on April 30th 1943, before their Honours: Sir Donald Kingdon, Chief Justice of Nigeria – President; Sir Philip Bertis Petrides, Chief Justice, Gold Coast (now Ghana), and George Graham Paul, Chief Justice, Sierra Leone’’.
It urged Okpẹ political leaders, specifically Okakuro Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Okakuro Senator Ede Dafinone, Hon. Ben Etanabene, Ekakuro James Augoye and Perkins Umukoro to begin to articulate and promote Okpẹ interests in their respective portfolios.
‘’The policy of peaceful coexistence continues to define the cornerstone of Okpẹ Union’s relationship with other ethnic nationalities. However, let it be known that, by any legitimate means possible, we will strongly defend the territories of the Okpẹ Nation against intrusions by any ethnic nationality on our sovereignty. While non-Okpẹ nationals are welcome in Okpẹ villages and towns; they must not forget that they are guests and not owners of Okpẹ land. Unlike other nationalities, some elements in the Itsekiri Nation do not seem to understand this fundamental principle of residency outside their ancestral lands. Interestingly, these Itsekiri elements will not dare to claim ownership of Ajoki, Ekehuan and Ologbo in the Benin Kingdom’’.
The union said the appellation” Sapele Okpẹ Community” should be changed.
‘’It has no conceptual difference with the other ethnic communities in Sapele, for instance, the Sapele Ndigbo Community, the Sapele Yoruba Community, the Sapele Itsekiri Community, etc. It is passive. A more positive name, for example, Sapele Indigenes Association should be considered as it connotes a definitive and positive meaning’’.
The Okpe Union has expressed concern over the nefarious activities of some elements of the Itsekiri and Urhobo nationalities.
‘’Some elements of the Itsekiri and Urhobo nationalities continue to constitute irritants to the Okpẹ Nation. The Urhobo via their nefarious WADO activities claim Okpẹ territories. We vehemently reject this as Okpẹ is not Urhobo and neither are we an appendage of any ethnic nationality’’.
The union also stressed its historical mission of facilitating the independence of Okpẹ Nation.
‘’We shall continue to encourage the use of Okpẹ Language in worship and the translation of Church sermons. We shall use the Okpẹ language to enhance the Okpẹ identity and development strategy of Okpẹ Nation. We shall continue to intensify our strategic collaboration with other Okpẹ organizations, as well as with other ethnic nationalities in Delta State and Nigeria, in the realization of this noble historical imperative’’.
The union in a New Year message to the public stressed the need for prominent Nigerians to be thorough and be armed with correct facts in the area of Okpe history, language and culture.
‘’While we reiterate our profound reverence for the Okpẹ Throne, we remain resolute in our defence of democratic tenets and good governance in Okpẹ Nation. We also reiterate our firm view that Okpẹ Kingdom is not an absolute monarchy where a monarch’s pronouncements are considered “final” even when they violate basic democratic norms. We recognize that to toe the path of truth is a difficult choice that only a small minority with sound social consciousness can embark on. Truth can be suppressed but can never be imprisoned’’.
The message delivered by the President General of Okpe Union Worldwide, Prof Igho Natufe emphasized the strategic approach to position Okpẹ stakeholders in the pursuit of the recognition of Okpẹ as a distinct ethnic nationality in Delta State.
‘’This objective remains an existential challenge of the Okpẹ Nation which Okpẹ Union was established to attain. We shall intensify our collaboration with internal and external forces for a better appreciation of the benefits of Okpẹ Identity to all parties, including the Urhobo. The two local government councils in Okpẹ Nation, Sapele LGC and Okpẹ LGC, shall be encouraged to play a pivotal role in the Redemption of the Okpẹ Nation’’.
The union called for cooperation and unity to enhance economic development of Okpẹ Nation.
PRESS RELEASE
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has celebrated with Lagos residents and every Nigerian on the commemoration of Christmas, which is the birth of Jesus Christ.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a Christmas message issued by his Special Adviser, Mr Gboyega Akosile, urged people to be their brother’s keepers by showing love and compassion to one another throughout this season.
He said, “As we celebrate Christmas, I am extending my best wishes to every Lagosian and Nigerians, especially Christians across the country and other parts of the world.
“We must not forget the true essence of the season, which is to reflect on the birth of Jesus and its significance to mankind. We should seize the opportunity of the celebration to strengthen our love for one another by being kind and generous to the people around us.
“As we mark this year’s Christmas, I want to urge Christian faithful in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with believers of other faith. We should emulate virtues of humility, tolerance, perseverance and compassion as exemplified by Jesus Christ, whose birth we are celebrating this season.
“This season is a time to reflect and appreciate how far we have come together as a people. Despite the challenges of the year, our resilience and sense of community have remained strong, and that gives us hope for the future.
“I pray that this Christmas brings peace to your homes and joy to your hearts. Thank you for your continued support and belief in a greater Lagos.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
25 DECEMBER 2025
The Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon Felix Aganbi, has urged foreign investors to come forward and avail themselves of the opportunities in Koko Town.
‘’A number of industries have been set to make maximum use of the available agricultural and mineral based raw materials. Koko Town has become synonymous with industrial development’’
He also urged chief executives and managers of private organizations in the country to show the people of Delta State how committed they are to the development and promotion of sports in Nigeria.
‘’Individuals and groups alike, must support Canaan Land Golf & Country Club in seeking the honour and glories sporting brings to the country, particularly Delta State’’
In a statement in Koko, Aganbi said positive steps have been taken towards providing the necessary standard sporting facilities in Koko Town
Aganbi, who is also the Chairman of Canaan Land Golf & Country Club, expressed the happiness of the management and members of Canaan Land Golf & Country Club at celebrating the second anniversary on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
‘’The one-day event marks our club’s two-year anniversary and expands our horizons beyond golf to include badminton, table tennis and darts’’
The statement emphasized networking and socializing, skill development, health and wellness, career advancement and exposure.
‘’As part of the activities, we will host a special anniversary ceremony to reflect our growth, complete with refreshments and networking. Additionally, we will be incorporating a give-back medical outreach program focused on eye care and full health checkups at our Christian Aganbi Sickbay
The business mogul urged the federal government to contribute towards the development of sports by complementing Canaan Land Golf & Country Club efforts.
‘’Our goal for this event and beyond includes strengthening community ties, promoting wellness and showcasing the potential and opportunity in Koko town through the Canaan Land Smart City, a sustainable development featuring eco-friendly residences, a tech hub, wellness facilities and tourism attractions
The statement also emphasized love, unity and development
‘’The high profile event will be a pleasant and memorable one to athletes, enthusiasts, investors and community leaders’’ the statement added.
Thousands of Okpe indigenes in the South-West geo-political zone will assemble in Lagos on Sunday, December, 28, 2025 to promote Okpe civilization, history, language and culture.
‘’The 2025 Okpe Union end of year festivity is designed to present Okpe civilization, culture and humanism to the global community’’ a statement by the South-West Deputy President General of Okpe Union, Engineer Francis Redemi said.
The statement issued in Lagos stressed on the values of the Okpe people and the unity of Okpe kingdom.
‘’The people of Okpe today, and particularly its leaders have a duty to their ancestors and to their descendants. We consider it our responsibility to provide bursary to Okpe indigenes in Nigeria’’
The event promoting a full and brotherly cooperation between Okpe indigenes in Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, Osun and Ondo according to Redemi, promises to be a display of Okpe heritage.
‘’We are concerned about the past, what is taking place today, what should take place tomorrow and what should make the future of Okpe Kingdom happier and more prosperous’’
Scheduled to begin from 3:00 PM at Okpe Union House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, the statement emphasized the high priority which must be given to the education of the youths and the role of the union in giving Okpe sons and daughters the opportunity to enjoy a full and satisfying life.
‘’Okpe children want good education. We must plan for the future. We must act on a wider plane of ideas’’
Particularly, the statement highlighted respect for the character and institutions of Okpe Kingdom, positive thought, constructive action and the effort of Okpe leaders to uplifting Okpe students in tertiary institutions.
‘’This year’s ceremony echoes the region’s commitment to maintaining ancestral identity, encouraging academic excellence, supporting the next generation of Okpe leaders in their educational pursuits and proclaiming unity among ourselves’’ the statement added.
Igbo Almajiris can’t help their alliteration. You don’t get a safe and progressive country by being lawless. This is the attitude of the folks contributing to the lawlessness in the South-East.
They cannot articulate an issue without frothing in the mouth with bile. Their angst is due to their failure to make Nigerians feel guilty for the dislocation and war the Biafrans brought to Nigeria.
We will not feel guilty. Biafrans drew the first blood. A recognition and acceptance of this fact will bring healing to the restless souls. They have a right to self-determination which should be exercised under the rule of law.
The last time these people had a fever; they invaded the Midwest Region and caused a lot of havoc. It was a season of mayhem and murder. If they did not start that war, I would be living in the semi-autonomous Midwest Region with control of our resources.
To what extent does the agitation for self-determination nullify my right to self-determination? This is what Igbo Almajiris don’t think about. They are very selfish people. Think of the repercussions of your actions. They are not the only tribe in Nigeria.
Isaac Boro declared the Niger Delta Republic but Ojukwu and Ironsi abrogated it and sentenced Boro to death. Do Biafra agitators think they have a right to Biafra? This is why no one wants to deal with the South-East people.
They are not sincere. There is nothing the South-East is contributing to Nigeria except the anarchy.
Why so much pride and puffiness. The South East contributes nothing to the federation. There will be no war this time. If Nnamdi Kanu and his co-travellers continue these criminal enterprises in the name of self-determination, we should treat it as a criminal issue.
It is becoming tiresome to live in the same country with a group of people who always throw tantrums for attention. I am an Isoko man. The fact that I am not a president does not make me less Nigerian.
How can Nigeria develop when the South-East people want war in every generation? Are the South-East agitators controlled by foreign secret intelligence services? This is not normal.
You want to compare everything to America when you lack the mental capacity to do or think like an American. You hold grudges and lack love. Bitterness is not an ingredient in nation building. Learn some humility and learn to love your fellow citizens. Killing your own people and crippling businesses is not a developmental agenda.
Some people have always asked me why I am not talking about Boko Haram. I have done that on several occasions. I have said that if Gumi preaches his brand of terrorist Islam in Saudi Arabia, he will be beheaded. He did not call me a moron. I am an equal opportunity offender. Do you destroy your house and seek shelter from other people? That is not wise. Do you set your house ablaze because your neighbor’s house is burning? That sounds stupid.
This lack of love and empathy is what led to the sclerosis of the thought process of Biafra agitators. You think you hate Nigerians, you actually hate yourself. This hate has blinded you and has led you to self-flagellation that bleeds and you blame others for your self-inflicted injuries.
Good citizens with love and empathy produce good nations. You lack these qualities and you embrace thorns and blame others for your injuries. You have developed a state of deliberate ignorance regarding the goodness of Nigerians towards Igbo people.
We are getting tired of your emotional blackmails that paint us as Igbo haters when we object to your ranting and outright disregard to the feelings of other Nigerians.
It is becoming difficult and tiring to tolerate your griping and selfish existence and destructive disposition to other Nigerians. As a democratic society, we cannot make the Igbo man a special citizen as you are demanding. You must remember the magnanimity of Nigerians towards the Igbo people. If that magnanimity does not show you the majesty of Nigerian, then you will never be sane. No one will confer you a special status.
It is absurd for the South-East people to think that the road to the presidency is through intimidation of Nigerians. You don’t have the population and you don’t have common sense to form workable alliances.
As it is now, it will be easier for Nnamdi Kanu to become the president of Biafra than an Igbo man to be president of Nigeria.
Your present political naivety has been compounded by the naivety of your brothers in the diaspora. These folks actually think that Donald Trump will award them Biafra and they took the wrong steps to misinform the president of the United States about the happenings in Nigeria in the hope that almighty America will invade Nigeria and empower them in Nigeria.
What those Igbo people in diaspora have done is worse than the slave catching role their ancestors played during slavery.
Do you expect Nigerians to applaud you for this unpatriotic act? Asking a foreign power to invade your homeland is treason beyond pardon. A simple perusal of international politics would have made them tread with caution in this treacherous arena.
America could not use its power to install Juan Guaido on the people of Venezuela. He has been in Washington more than ten years waiting for Uncle Sam to invade Venezuela and install him as the president of Venezuela. Guaido is still waiting. I am beginning to think he will wait forever.
America has not fired a shot on behalf of Biafra and your brothers are already celebrating victory. They tell the World they are ready and able to join the invasion of their homeland because they know the terrain. This is sad.
In their diatribes, they defend the BIafra agitation by the length of time it has been going on. Is it that you cannot be a Nigerian or when you found out that other Nigerians will not tolerate your imposition and nullifications? Is it necessary to use time to measure the veracity of your agitation? If the time justifies you, what do you say about Chechnya in Russia? These people have been trying to break away from the Soviet Union since the 18th century. Due to intransigence, Stalin deported them to Siberia in 1940’s. They renewed their agitations in the 1990s and Putin gave them the riot.
Now let’s visit Iraq, Syria and Turkey. These countries have the Kurds as ethnic minority. Since the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1915, the Kurds have been agitating for the unification of all the Kurds to form Great Kurdistan as a country. Turkey, Iraq and Syria rejected this vehemently. The closets they got to this dream were after the fall of Iraq during the gulf war. America was actively in support of this new country. The leader of the Kurdistan group, PKK, Abdulla Ocalan adopted terroristic methods for his agitation. He was declared wanted. He escaped to Nairobi. Like Kanu, he was arrested and extradited to Turkey where he was tried and sent to life imprisonment. If Kanu knew this history, he would have stayed back in London where he was safe and faraway. He would have suspected a trap. Like typical Igbo Almajiri, he has no use for that kind of knowledge. He is selfish, arrogant and myopic. He was very ignorant to the ways of the world. What he lacks in knowledge, he makes up for braggadocio.
The power you crave will not wipe away your deliberate ignorance. You need to improve your character. The South-East people need to get rid of the spirit of domination before any Nigerian will trust an Igbo with power. The history of the Igbo people is not benevolent in this regard.
No minority in the East has anything positive to say about the Igbo people. What happened to Ambazonia? History is not benevolent in this regard. So many people left Nigeria because they could not withstand the oppression of the Igbo people. This does not mean all Igbo people are bad. It means those who ascended to leadership could not run a multi ethnic region with fairness.
Of all the three major tribes, the Igbo people are the most insular. They will challenge this and say they are everywhere. Everywhere, they keep to themselves and lack acculturation. As a result of bias, they are the last to know what is going on in their communities.
The Hausa-Fulani have been trading in the Sahel for more than two centuries before the arrival of the colonialists. This is why the Hausa language is the lingua franca of the Sahel. The Yoruba people and Binis and a lot of tribes in Southern Nigeria have a robust history of trade with other people in West Africa. Their languages extend beyond the borders of Nigeria. Unlike the other tribes, the Igbo people have been very insular. There is no record of anyone speaking Igbo outside of Igbo land. This is a historical fact. They did not have an empire and a standing army may have made them susceptible to invasions from outsiders during the slave trade .The. Insularity made them not to trust outsiders. This is why they are hyper vigilant and distrust outsiders. The other major fact is the Igbo people are the only group of people in the Nigerian union that never had an empire or monarchy. This is why their rugged individualism and chest thumping offend the sensibility of those who came to Nigeria through empires.
When the colonizers came, it was easier for the Igbo people to adopt western education because the individual is more fluid to adaptation than a group that lost their nation and civilization. This is where we have to know that western education and civilization are not synonymous. It is these nuances that led to the animosity between the Igbo people and the Fulani in the first Republic. Since then, none of these groups have found it necessary to reappraise their positions because they are clinging to their primordial instincts of the past.
This is the reason why it will not be easier for an Igbo man to be elected President of Nigeria. The Igbo Almajiris have managed to alienate every non Igbo by their incessant insults. This display of vulgarity has become the signature of a lot of Igbo people.
Anger is not a solution. A lot of Biafra agitators are rude and vulgar and they lack decorum to engage in any civilized discussion.
DR AUSTIN ORETTE WRITES FROM HOUSTON, TEXAS