News From Nigeria
ISOKO WOMEN INSIST ON AUSTIN ORETTE
Isoko women on Sunday discussed the process of realizing a better Delta South, with an exciting statement in support of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial hopeful, Dr. Austin Orette.
‘’We have a huge task ahead. The 2027 election in Delta South Senatorial District is another occasion to prove to ourselves that we can do it. We need to start planning for NDC electoral success’’.
They also rebuked those canvassing for power shift in strong language.
Rising from a meeting on Sunday, the women highlighted Orette’s devotion to moral purity, capacity for honesty and the critical need to work together in view of moving the senatorial district to the next level.
‘’Dr. Austin Orette is an exceptional leader and a protector of the pillars of justice, democracy and integrity. He will create and sustain the conditions for individual development”
The Chairperson of Isoko Women United Group (IWUG), Mrs. Elizabeth Oghenemaro disclosed to reporters shortly after the meeting in Oleh that they had gone far in their discussion with prominent politicians in Delta State on the need for Orette to replace a disappointing lawmaker in 2027.
‘’Dr. Austin Orette has political credibility and strong network across the world. He will promote trade, develop infrastructure and ensure security”
The women underscored Orette’s competence, commitment to the welfare of the people, principles of order and justice and the courage in pursuing issues of interest to the people of Delta South Senatorial District.
‘’The renowned physician is hardworking, honest, suave and accommodating. He is in the best position to serve the senatorial district’’
The women applauded Orette for promoting the interest of the oil rich district.
‘’What is happening in the district mirrors a situation of desperation of some individuals and groups to take advantage of falsehood to misguide the good people of the district as well as score cheap political goals’’
They urged Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko and Urhobo leaders not to devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspiration of a man who has been a perpetual bench warmer in the National Assembly.
‘’Four years of wasted opportunities are enough. The ego of the disappointing lawmaker will be deflated. He should await the people’s dirge in 2027’’ the women said.
The women emphasized legislative output, empowerment, grassroots development and efforts in attracting development projects and infrastructure to the district.
‘’Dr. Austin Orette will be active in the senate. He will contribute to lawmaking, debates and committee activities. He will also expand the prosperity of the good people of Delta South Senatorial District’’
INVESTORS, FAMOUS SPORTS PERSONALITIES, OTHERS GATHER IN DELTA STATE AS CANAANLAND COUNTRY CLUB BEGINS SECOND ANNIVERSARY
The CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club on Saturday announced a series of activities to mark its second anniversary celebration.
‘’A significant 18-hole golf tournament featuring professional and amateur players as well as international talent will begin on Friday, May 8 and end on Saturday, May 9, 2026 in Koko Town, Warri North Local Government Area’’.
The Chairman of CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club, Honourable Felix Aganbi, in a statement in Benin highlighted investment opportunities in Delta State, the growth of golf in Nigeria, youth development, warm and inclusive culture and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
‘’The second anniversary of CanaanLand Golf & Country Club will bring together business leaders, corporate stakeholders, public office holders, community leaders, sportsmen and women from within and outside the country’’.
Tagged ‘’Inclusive and remarkable celebration’’ Aganbi emphasized how the club transformed golf from an exclusive sport in the Niger Delta into a more widely embraced recreation activity.
He highlighted two years of steady, significant growth, expansion of the club’s facilities, investment in junior and academy programmes, promotion of amateur and recreational golf and real estate development in Koko. .
The business mogul also announced side sports such as table tennis, badminton and darts, a give-back programme focusing on eye care and full health checkups at the Christiana Aganbi Sickbay, anniversary meeting, networking opportunities for local and foreign investors, boat cruise, refreshment and award presentation as major activities of the second anniversary of CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club.
The statement stressed on improved infrastructure and rising participation of women and youth.
‘’An 18-Hole Golf Course, clubhouse and recreational areas, Khashoggi Restaurant (Lakeside Dining Experience), Gazebos for relaxation and social gatherings, smart hall for events and indoor activities, Chris Castle Apartments for Accommodation, Christiana Aganbi Sickbay, badminton court and table tennis are key facilities of the CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club’’ the statement added.
CELEBRITIES, SPORTING HEROES, POLITICAL BIGWIGS, OTHERS GATHER IN KOKO
The crème de la crème of the Nigerian society will gather in Delta State on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
“Sporting heroes, prominent political leaders and business executives will step onto the Canaan land golf course on Saturday, May 9, 2026”
Chairman of Canaan land Golf Course and Country Club, Hon Felix Aganbi, in a statement on Monday said the club would host some of the world’s best and most celebrated golfers.
“The second anniversary of the Canaan land Golf and Country Club is a celebration of sport, style and distinction. It will provide a unique and unforgettable experience for participants”
He highlighted the club’s achievements.
“The Canaanland Golf Course and Country Club has set the benchmark for excellence in the world of golf. It has hosted some of the most prestigious golf tournaments in Nigeria’
He also emphasized the inclusivity of the second anniversary golf tournament, sportsmanship and commitment of the club to excellence.
“The second anniversary will test the skills of beginners, casual golfers, competitive amateurs and professionals”
The anniversary, according to Aganbi, will draw golfers from within and outside the country.
“The second anniversary will celebrate the CanaanLand spirit of friendship, service and fellowship through sports”
It will also allow political and corporate leaders to establish meaningful relations.
‘The second anniversary of the most iconic golf course will feature event networking, award ceremony and special lunch.
ORETTE IS IN SENATORIAL RACE TO WIN – DELTA SOUTH YOUTHS
Youths of Delta South on Sunday identified a festering crisis going on in the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a major factor that can swing the odds in favour of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2027.
“The Nigeria Democratic party (NDC) is a party to look up to. It is a party to go with. It will take us to the Promised Land come 2027”
They also listed charisma, administrative experience, political sagacity, diplomatic disposition, international exposure and motivational leadership as factors that endeared Dr. Austin Orette to the good people of Delta South Senatorial District.
“Dr. Austin Orette is not in the Delta South Senatorial race to lose but to win and by the grace of God, he will win”
Gathering under the umbrella of Dependable Movement (DM) of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Emevor, the youths resolved to work with the elders and the women in the district to ensure that Orette emerges as the Delta South Senator in 2027.
In a statement delivered to journalists by the Coordinator of the NDC Dependable Movement, Oghenekaro Adigheji, the youths praised the Delta South frontline aspirant for inspiring confidence in the people.
They argued that Delta South Senatorial District at this stage of its development cannot afford to allow its best manpower stay in perpetuity abroad when his leadership acumen is being sorely missed in the district.
The youths backed Orette’s calls for the restructuring of the country, establishment of true federalism and devotion of power.
Particularly, the youths applauded the world class professional for addressing the concrete socio-economic challenges confronting the senatorial district.
“Now, more than ever before, Delta South needs quality and focused leadership. Delta South Senatorial District is in dire need of someone who understands that leadership is service’’
The youths urged Delta South leaders to support Orette in his senatorial bid.
They emphasized Orette’s pleasant personality, charm and positive leadership traits.
“Dr. Austin Orette has an excellent chance of winning the Delta South senatorial election in 2027”
THE RAPE OF DEMOCRACY BY DR AUSTIN ORETTE
Of all kinds of governments, the most difficult kind of government is constitutional democracy. This is because it requires full participation of the citizens.
When practiced according to the norms, it is antithetical to a military dictatorship. Military dictatorship is a top down, and one size fits all approaches, and the whims of the leader rule the day. A democracy requires deliberation and a bottom-up approach, and the wishes of the people are carried through.
This is the reason why participation in a democracy requires deliberation and mandates the periodic assent of the voters. This is a sine qua non. It is a duty and a right in a democracy to have the opportunity to remake the country anew. Elected leaders must submit themselves for revaluation by the voters. This is mandatory and sacrosanct in a healthy democracy. To deprive citizens of this solemn responsibility is criminal.
A land where the people are afraid of their leaders is a hallmark of dictatorship, where power is maintained through fear, intimidation, violence and the suppression of basic liberties. A land where the leaders are afraid of the people is a democracy.
The popular sentiments often attributed to Tomas Jefferson show that a healthy democracy relies on mutual trust and accountability rather than sheer fear from either.
Ours is not a healthy democracy and is the reason some parties impose candidates on the people through automatic tickets. This should never be tolerated.
In a democracy, those elected must go back to the voters to renew their mandates. It is a dictatorship when top party officials impose candidates on the citizens. It is our right to have the opportunity to look into the records of those we elected and decide whether they were worthy of our initial trust.
This singular duty of the voter if not respected should be the end of that party. We are not in a military regime where governors and other officials are appointed. Our constitution clearly states that every four years we shall re-elect leaders.
Imposition of candidates without voting is unconstitutional. We can understand a candidate going unopposed. You can never be unopposed when the challengers are ham-stringed by criminal imposition of high fees of entry for challengers and primary elections are abrogated.
Why should those who aspire to serve be made to pay astronomical fees that cannot be explained by any income metrics in Nigeria? This is an exclusionary gimmick. This is what has turned our politics to a marketplace that has attracted only desperados instead of refined citizens with ideas. This is a violation of our constitutional order.
Any party that engages in this practice deserves to be voted out of power. No elected official should place himself above the voters and the constitution. Nigeria is no longer a military dictatorship where the government is the estate of military generals.
Any politician who cannot go back to the voters and renew his mandate should go and practice politics in North Korea. The President of North Korea was just re-elected by 99.9 percent. All his opponents campaigned from jail. The one percent that did not vote for him is being prosecuted for various crimes.
We are a constitutional democracy. No one has the right to impose candidates on the citizens. This practice is vile and unjust, and it is nothing but the rape of democracy. No one has a right to automatic mandate in a democracy.
AUSTIN ORETTE IS A DELTA SOUTH SENATORIAL ASPIRANT. HE WRITES FROM OWHELOGBO IN ISOKO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA
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
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.