Forum To International Community: Oil Thieves Are Out To Blackmail Tompolo, Kyari, Otuaro

** Says International Oil thieves, Local Collaborators Cannot Undermine National Security, Truncate Nation’s Economy.

The Forum of Concerned Niger Delta Ex-Agitators has exposed oil thieves futile attempt to tarnish Chief Government Ekpemupolo , aka Tompolo, Engr.Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro before the International Community, describing the development as the last kick of a dying horse

The Forum said that the syndicate of frustrated international crude oil thieves in the Niger Delta just refused to give up their futile war of attrition.

According to the Forum, they are fighting back after their local ring leaders – Messrs Kingsley Kuku, Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf and his foot soldier, Jude Gbaboyor as well as Bibopri Ajube, alias Shoot-at-Sight and their latest ally, Robinson Ariyo, a Warri-based obscure Itsekiri legal practitioner, were dislodged and chased out of the region and their illegal business crushed by Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and other security outfits.

In a Press Statement on Monday, signed by Chief (General) Otegha Ayebi (The Last Don), General Benjamin Ekeremor(The Opu Abadi) and General Adowei Binaebi), they stated that although their efforts are feeble, akin to a mere storm in a teacup, the truth remains that Tompolo has changed the narrative of oil exploration, with daily records showing rapid increase in production.

They said that the local syndicate, being managed by Kingsley Kuku, Chief Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf, his boy, Jude Gbaboyor, Chief Bibopri Ajube, alias Shoot-at-Sight, and Robinson Ariyo, was desperate to tarnish the names and good work of Chief Government Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo, Engr. Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for bringing order and sanity to oil prospecting in the Niger Delta.

According to the Press Statement,Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, was also targeted in the renewed smear campaign, for his commitment to law and order in the Amnesty Office, and for denying disgruntled elements, who had in the past unlawfully accessed the Amnesty Programme funds.

They revealed that the international criminal oil barons in collaboration with their local supporters in the persons of Kingsley Kuku, Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, Gbaboyor and Ariyo have taken their fight to the gates of the United Nations in New York, attempting to denounce their supposed detractors through propaganda and misinformation.

They wrote that a recent one-man show protest in New York featured an obscure individual hanging banners with photographs of purported dead youths kidnapped, imprisoned and murdered by Tompolo, whom he also accused of stockpiling arms and ammunition, in Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State.

The Forum added that the lone protester urged the international community to prevail on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to arrest Tompolo and investigate the alleged kidnap, torture, and murder of the youths.

“What arrant nonsense is this? Is it possible for such atrocity to be committed in 21st century Nigeria, while the Federal Government looks the other way? It is absolute humbug.
The allegation is not even worth refuting.
Gbaramatu kingdom hosts heavy federal presence, especially the Federal Maritime University, where citizens from all parts of the nation either work or study. How can such gory things happen there without some social media fellows flashing it nationally”, they wrote.

The Forum added; “It is likely that the single protester is unemployed and desperate to earn a few dollars to survive another day. And it is repugnant of him to accept the role for a few dollars. If he was gainfully employed in America, he would not have agreed to participate in such charade.It is not palatable to see a Nigerian so stranded, become a nuisance, and vagrant in a foreign land.It is a show of shame by the lone protester to so disparage Nigeria abroad at the behest of criminals. He should be identified and repatriated for prosecution”.

According to them, the one man show of shame at the foreground of the United Nations was a weak attempt by Kingsley Kuku, Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, Gbaboyor and Ariyo, and their international backers to blackmail Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and Engineer Mele Kyari for disrupting their illegal activities.

“From inquiries, the sponsors of the protest had either vied for pipeline surveillance contracts against Tantita or for the headship of the Amnesty Programme against Dr. Otuaro.They are notorious oil bunkerers, mainly from the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities. The hungry Itsekiri lawyer is said to be leading the charge against Tompolo, Mele Kyari and Otuaro, back home. He recently issued statements filled with lies and falsehood.The protest itself was inconsequential because it had no weight nor elicited any reaction, as it was all based on misinformation. Only one misguided individual is seen in the video, and he seemed uninformed on the narrative of the subject matter”, they wrote.

According to the Forum, the sponsors of the one man show in New York desperately desired the pipeline surveillance contracts as a decoy to continue their notorious business of sabotaging the nation’s economy.

They said it was rather unfortunate to note that the sponsors of Tompolo must go down campaign are clearly bereft of fresh ideas, adding that one would have expected some levels of creativity and ingenuity in their evil plot.

“They are parading overflogged old stories of Tompolo stockpiling arms and harbouring detention camps in Gbaramatu communities. This is their rhetoric old blackmail. They are dull and unintelligent, otherwise, they would have come up with fresh ideas. The reports of Tompolo stockpiling arms and operating illegal detention camps have been in the public domains for over 2 decades”, they said.

Here Is The Full Statement By The Forum Of Concerned Niger Delta Ex-Agitators:

FORUM OF CONCERNED NIGER DELTA EX-AGITATORS
OKOSUGBENE COMMUNITY, DELTA STATE

THE LAST KICK OF A DYING HORSE: OIL THIEVES FUTILE ATTEMPT TO TARNISH TOMPOLO, MELE KYARI AND DENNIS OTUARO BEFORE THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY

The syndicate of frustrated international crude oil thieves in the Niger Delta refuses to give up their futile war of attrition.

They are fighting back after their local ring leaders – Messrs Kingsley Kuku, Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf and his foot soldier, Jude Gbaboyor as well as Bibopri Ajube, alias Shoot-at-Sight and their latest ally, Robinson Ariyo, a Warri-based obscure Itsekiri legal practitioner, were dislodged and chased out of the region and their illegal business crushed by Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and other security outfits.

Although their efforts are feeble, akin to a mere storm in a teacup, the truth remains that Tompolo has changed the narrative of oil exploration, with daily records showing rapid increase in production.

The local syndicate, being managed by Kingsley Kuku, Chief Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf, his boy, Jude Gbaboyor, Chief Bibopri Ajube, alias Shoot-at-Sight, and Robinson Ariyo, is desperate to tarnish the names and good work of Chief Government Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo, Engr. Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigeria National PetroleumCompany Limited (NNPCL) and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for bringing order and sanity to oil prospecting in the Niger Delta.

Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, is also targeted in the renewed smear campaign, for his commitment to law and order in the Amnesty Office, and for denying disgruntled elements, who had in the past unlawfully accessed the Amnesty Programme funds.

The international criminal oil barons in collaboration with their local supporters in the persons of Kingsley Kuku, Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, Gbaboyor and Ariyo have taken their fight to the gates of the United Nations in New York, attempting to denounce their supposed detractors through propaganda and misinformation.

A recent one-man show protest in New York featured an obscure individual hanging banners with photographs of purported dead youths kidnapped, imprisoned and murdered by Tompolo, whom he also accused of stockpiling arms and ammunition, in Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State.

The lone protester urged the international community to prevail on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to arrest Tompolo and investigate the alleged kidnap, torture, and murder of the youths.

What arrant nonsense is this? Is it possible for such atrocity to be committed in 21st century Nigeria, while the Federal Government looks the other way?

It is absolute humbug.

The allegation is not even worth refuting.
Gbaramatu kingdom hosts heavy federal presence, especially the Federal Maritime University, where citizens from all parts of the nation either work or study.

How can such gory things happen there without some social media fellows flashing it nationally?

It is likely that the single protester is unemployed and desperate to earn a few dollars to survive another day. And it is repugnant of him to accept the role for a few dollars.

If he was gainfully employed in America, he would not have agreed to participate in such charade.

It is not palatable to see a Nigerian so stranded, become a nuisance, and vagrant in a foreign land.

It is a show of shame by the lone protester to so disparage Nigeria abroad at the behest of criminals.

He should be identified and repatriated for prosecution.

The one man show of shame at the foreground of the United Nations is a weak attempt by Kingsley Kuku, Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, Gbaboyor and Ariyo, and their international backers to blackmail Chief Government Ekpemupolo, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and Engineer Mele Kyari for disrupting their illegal activities.

From inquiries, the sponsors of the protest had either vied for pipeline surveillance contracts against Tantita or for the headship of the Amnesty Programme against Dr. Otuaro.

They are notorious oil bunkerers, mainly from the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities.

The hungry Itsekiri lawyer is said to be leading the charge against Tompolo, Mele Kyari and Otuaro, back home. He recently issued statements filled with lies and falsehood.

The protest itself was inconsequential because it had no weight nor elicited any reaction, as it was all based on misinformation.

Only one misguided individual is seen in the video, and he seemed uninformed on the narrative of the subject matter.

The sponsors of the one man show in New York desperately desired the pipeline surveillance contracts as a decoy to continue their notorious business of sabotaging the nation’s economy.

It’s unfortunate to note that the sponsors of Tompolo must go down campaign are clearly bereft of fresh ideas. One would have expected some levels of creativity and ingenuity in their evil plot. They are parading overflogged old stories of Tompolo stockpiling arms and harbouring detention camps in Gbaramatu communities. This is their rhetoric old blackmail. They are dull and unintelligent, otherwise, they would have come up with fresh ideas. The reports of Tompolo stockpiling arms and operating illegal detention camps have been in the public domains for over 2 decades.

Only recently, the Itsekiri lawyer raised the same frivolous alarm in his open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which was roundly dumped by responsible Nigerian media for containing reckless and unsubstantiated innuendos.

To the reasonable and right thinking Nigerians, Tompolo is a patriot, genuinely committed to the general wellbeing of the nation. The same Tompolo has been honoured and celebrated by various media houses and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the umbrella body of practising journalists in the country.

The leadership of NUJ, led by Dr. Chris Isiguzo, visited Gbaramatu Kingdom a number of times. In fact, Gbaramatu Kingdom can be regarded as a second home to many local and international media practitioners. No one has reported the existence of a detention camp and illegal armoury being operated by Tompolo. Not even the vibrant social media that can not be caged.

Just last month, the national leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) led by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, visited Tompolo, in Oporoza. Osigwe heaped praises and accolades on the Niger Delta leader for his contributions to national security and the nation’s journey towards economic prosperity.

Contrary to the wrong narratives being peddled by mischief makers, Tantita’s job is a unifying factor in the Niger Delta, with citizens of the various ethnic nationalities serving as sub-contractors while thousands others work directly with Tantita. Tantita neither discriminate nor harbour hatred against any ethnic nationality.

Only the criminals and the guilty are afraid of Tompolo.

They are simply intimidated by his rising profiles. They are afraid of their own shadows.

Tompolo is a friend to law abiding citizen.

He plays host to the high and low of the society. His doors are wide open. He has nothing to hide. He is open to public scrutiny.

Let it be known that even if the international oil thieves, local collaborators and hirelings turned the New York Headquarters in New York to their permanent abode or embark on unending daily protests at White House and Downing Street, the war against crude oil bunkering would be sustained.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mele Kyari, Tompolo and Dennis Otuaro would not succumb to blackmail to either retreat or surrender. No one will be allowed to undermine the national security and truncate the nation’s economy.

Only the wicked and evil criminals that would cast aspersions on Mele Kyari, Tompolo and Dennis Otuaro, who are infused by patriotic zeal to help President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore the country on the path of sustainable development.

Despite this, it is essential to bring the issue to public scrutiny, and set the record straight, to expose the futile attempt to discredit Tompolo, Otuaro, and Kyari.

For the benefit of the general public, Dr. Otuaro’s management of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, has been instrumental in the reduction of oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. He has ensured that only documented former agitators benefit from the programme.

Hence, oil thieves have had difficulties recruiting ex-agitators as helpers.

The oversea oil thieves and their local collaborators – Messrs Kingsley Kuku, Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf, his errand boy, Jude Gbaboyor, Bibopri Ajube, also known as Shoot-at-Sight and Robinson Ariyo, are fighting because their illicit trade has been disrupted.

Despite their efforts, Tompolo, Otuaro, and Kyari remain committed to the responsibility of fighting off criminals in the nation’s waterways, who sabotage the major source of foreign exchange earning for the country.

The war against crude oil theft will continue, and those involved will be brought to justice.

The current administration, under the leadership of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, have expressed confidence in the good works of Tompolo, Otuaro, Dennis Otuaro and Kyari, and will not be swayed by the blackmail.

The achievements of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and other security agencies in the war against crude oil theft are impressive.
Crude production has risen over 2 million barrels per day and the environment is undergoing remediation.

To demonstrate that the recent success recorded in the war against crude oil theft was not a fluke, the management of NAPIMS, a strategic business unit of NNPCL, recently celebrated the feat by honouring its personnel for their contributions.

Elated Bala Wunti, then NAPIMS
‘s General Manager said
29% growth in production was recorded within 4 months, adding that the feat was “unprecedented anywhere in the world, and NUIMS contributed a staggering 80% to the reported 1.888 MBOPD.”

“This is not just merely a milestone but a declaration of what is possible when vision, determination and network converge,”Wunti added.

The international community, especially the UN, must ignore the featured charade, propaganda and misinformation being spread by the despicable oil thieves and their backers.

It is time for Kingsley Kuku; Chief Ebokabowei Victor-Ben, alias Boyloaf; his servant, Jude Gbaboyor; Chief Bibopri Ajube, alias Shoot-at-Sight and the failed lawyer, Robinson Ariyo, to seek legitimate means of earning a living, as the days of illegal oil bunkering are over.

The law will catch up with them, and they will be held accountable for their actions.

Tantita and other security agencies will continue to sustain the heat against oil thieves, ensuring that national security and the
economy are protected.

SIGNED:

(1) CHIEF (GEN.) OTEGHA AYEBI (THE LAST DON)

(2) GEN. BENJAMIN EKEREMOR (THE OPU ABADI)

(3) GEN. ADOWEI BINAEBI

As The Curtain Falls On The Legislative Year 2024

By: Ahmed Tijani Ibn Mustapha

AS 2024 comes to a close, the Nigerian 10th Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has emerged as a dynamic and purposeful institution. Tasked with navigating complex national challenges, the Senate has achieved a balance of cordiality with the executive and the rigorous performance of its oversight functions, demonstrating that harmony between the branches of government does not equate to subservience.

Contrary to critics who have labelled the 10th Senate a “rubber stamp,” this legislative body has proven itself capable of independent action and assertive policymaking. The Senate’s legislative achievements in 2024 highlight its dedication to governance that prioritizes the Nigerian people. Through strategic reforms, inclusive policymaking, and effective oversight, the 10th National Assembly has redefined the possibilities of constructive collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.

Key Achievements of the 10th Senate

Expanding Access to Education
The Student Loan Act, which provides interest-free loans to tertiary institution students, remains one of the Senate’s hallmark achievements. This legislation ensures that no Nigerian student is left behind due to financial constraints, reflecting the Senate’s commitment to empowering the nation’s youth and fostering upward mobility.

Economic Stabilization and Recovery
The National Economic Stabilization and Recovery Act has laid the foundation for economic resilience. By curbing inflation, attracting foreign investment, and streamlining government spending, the Senate has positioned Nigeria for growth while prioritizing job creation and improved living standards.

National Security Overhaul
The National Security Architecture Act restructured Nigeria’s security framework, enhancing coordination and responsiveness to national threats. By pairing this legislation with robust funding and oversight, the Senate has addressed one of Nigeria’s most pressing issues.

Strengthening Social Welfare and Healthcare
The Universal Healthcare Coverage Act and increased funding for education underline the Senate’s commitment to human capital development. These initiatives have expanded access to affordable healthcare and improved education infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities.

Petroleum Industry Reforms
Through the Petroleum Industry Reform Act, the Senate tackled inefficiencies in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This legislation improved transparency, increased revenue generation, and incorporated environmental sustainability, ensuring a sustainable future for one of Nigeria’s most critical industries.

Creation of Regional Development Commissions
Recognizing the need for targeted solutions to Nigeria’s diverse challenges, the Senate championed the creation of regional development commissions. These commissions address region-specific issues such as infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, and environmental degradation. By tailoring development efforts to the unique needs of each region, the Senate has taken a significant step toward balanced national progress.

Constructive Collaboration, Not Subservience
The 10th Senate has found the delicate balance between working cordially with the executive and performing its constitutional oversight duties. Senate President Akpabio’s leadership has ensured that collaboration does not come at the expense of legislative independence. The Senate has engaged the executive constructively, supporting policies in the national interest while holding the government accountable through rigorous oversight mechanisms.

This approach contrasts sharply with the counterproductive conflicts seen in previous administrations, where discord between the executive and the legislature often stalled critical reforms. The 10th Senate recognizes that such confrontations only harm the Nigerian people, who deserve governance that works in harmony to deliver results. By fostering dialogue and compromise, the Senate has shown that effective governance thrives on mutual respect and shared objectives.

A Legacy of Purpose-Driven Governance
The legislative gains of 2024 reflect the 10th Senate’s resolve to serve as a beacon of hope for Nigerians. From expanding access to education to transformative reforms in healthcare, economic policy, and the creation of regional development commissions, the Senate has laid the groundwork for inclusive and sustainable national development.

As the curtain falls on 2024, the 10th Senate leaves behind a legacy of impactful governance, characterized by independence, innovation, and collaboration. Its efforts have set a standard for future legislatures, proving that a united government, underpinned by mutual respect, can deliver lasting benefits to its people. The road ahead remains challenging, but the strides made this year provide a foundation for continued progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.

As 2024 comes to a close, the Nigerian 10th Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has emerged as a dynamic and purposeful institution. Tasked with navigating complex national challenges, the Senate has achieved a balance of cordiality with the executive and the rigorous performance of its oversight functions, demonstrating that harmony between the branches of government does not equate to subservience.

Contrary to critics who have labelled the 10th Senate a “rubber stamp,” this legislative body has proven itself capable of independent action and assertive policymaking. The Senate’s legislative achievements in 2024 highlight its dedication to governance that prioritizes the Nigerian people. Through strategic reforms, inclusive policymaking, and effective oversight, the 10th National Assembly has redefined the possibilities of constructive collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.

Key Achievements of the 10th Senate

Expanding Access to Education:

The Student Loan Act, which provides interest-free loans to tertiary institution students, remains one of the Senate’s hallmark achievements. This legislation ensures that no Nigerian student is left behind due to financial constraints, reflecting the Senate’s commitment to empowering the nation’s youth and fostering upward mobility.

Economic Stabilization and Recovery:

The National Economic Stabilization and Recovery Act has laid the foundation for economic resilience. By curbing inflation, attracting foreign investment, and streamlining government spending, the Senate has positioned Nigeria for growth while prioritizing job creation and improved living standards.

National Security Overhaul:

The National Security Architecture Act restructured Nigeria’s security framework, enhancing coordination and responsiveness to national threats. By pairing this legislation with robust funding and oversight, the Senate has addressed one of Nigeria’s most pressing issues.

Strengthening Social Welfare and Healthcare:

The Universal Healthcare Coverage Act and increased funding for education underline the Senate’s commitment to human capital development. These initiatives have expanded access to affordable healthcare and improved education infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities.

Petroleum Industry Reforms:

Through the Petroleum Industry Reform Act, the Senate tackled inefficiencies in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This legislation improved transparency, increased revenue generation, and incorporated environmental sustainability, ensuring a sustainable future for one of Nigeria’s most critical industries.

Creation of Regional Development Commissions:

Recognizing the need for targeted solutions to Nigeria’s diverse challenges, the Senate championed the creation of regional development commissions. These commissions address region-specific issues such as infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, and environmental degradation. By tailoring development efforts to the unique needs of each region, the Senate has taken a significant step toward balanced national progress.

Constructive Collaboration, Not Subservience:

The 10th Senate has found the delicate balance between working cordially with the executive and performing its constitutional oversight duties. Senate President Akpabio’s leadership has ensured that collaboration does not come at the expense of legislative independence. The Senate has engaged the executive constructively, supporting policies in the national interest while holding the government accountable through rigorous oversight mechanisms.

This approach contrasts sharply with the counterproductive conflicts seen in previous administrations, where discord between the executive and the legislature often stalled critical reforms. The 10th Senate recognizes that such confrontations only harm the Nigerian people, who deserve governance that works in harmony to deliver results. By fostering dialogue and compromise, the Senate has shown that effective governance thrives on mutual respect and shared objectives.

A Legacy of Purpose-Driven Governance:

The legislative gains of 2024 reflect the 10th Senate’s resolve to serve as a beacon of hope for Nigerians. From expanding access to education to transformative reforms in healthcare, economic policy, and the creation of regional development commissions, the Senate has laid the groundwork for inclusive and sustainable national development.

As the curtain falls on 2024, the 10th Senate leaves behind a legacy of impactful governance, characterized by independence, innovation, and collaboration. Its efforts have set a standard for future legislatures, proving that a united government, underpinned by mutual respect, can deliver lasting benefits to its people. The road ahead remains challenging, but the strides made this year provide a foundation for continued progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.

Ahmed Tijani Ibn Mustapha writes from Abuja.

A Weekend of Triumphs and Trials in Nigerian Football

By Tolulope Oguntimehin

This past weekend was a kaleidoscope of emotions for Nigerian football enthusiasts, as fortunes swung from hope to heartbreak across various competitions.

CHAN Eagles’ Grit in Ghana
The CHAN Eagles, a team forged from the talents of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), displayed remarkable resilience in their CHAN Qualifiers clash against Ghana. Securing a scoreless draw in Kumasi, the Eagles achieved what no Nigerian side had managed in CHAN qualifying history—returning unbeaten from Ghana. This result eclipses past defeats, including the 2-3 loss in 2008 and the humbling two-goal defeat in 2022. It was a glimmer of promise in a fiercely contested rivalry.

Flamingos Fall Short in WAFU U17 Thriller
In Prampram, near Accra, the Flamingos showcased remarkable fighting spirit at the WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup, battling back from two goals down to force a penalty shootout against the host nation. Though they ultimately fell 5-4 in the shootout, their performance was a testament to the unyielding determination of Nigerian youth football.

NPFL Drama: Breaking Jinxes and Defying Odds
The NPFL was where the weekend truly ignited, delivering drama, passion, and moments of magic.

Abia Warriors Triumph
Abia Warriors, desperate for a turnaround, delivered a much-needed win against an in-form Ikorodu City. Goals from Ifeoma Desouza in the 10th and stoppage time of the first half silenced the newly promoted side, sending them back to Lagos with a humbling defeat.

Sunshine Stars Redeemed
In Ijebu Ode, Sunshine Stars found solace under new coach Bala Abubakar. After a baptism of fire in his debut—a crushing 4-1 loss—Abubakar led his team to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Elkanemi Warriors, proving that the Owena Waves still have fight left in them.

Cathedral Demystified
In Enugu, the Flying Antelopes of Rangers were stunned at their fortress, the Cathedral. Shooting Stars (3SC) delivered a masterclass in determination, with Ikouwen Utim’s 28th-minute strike ensuring a 1-0 victory and catapulting the Oluyole Warriors into the top three.

Rivers and Remo: The Title Chase Intensifies
Rivers United continued their relentless pursuit of the NPFL title with a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Lafia, leaving Nasarawa United in despair as their relegation fears deepened. Meanwhile, Remo Stars proved their mettle with a convincing 2-0 win over Bayelsa United, keeping their title hopes alive.

Ahmed Musa Shines for Kano Pillars
In Kano, Ahmed Musa rolled back the years, scoring his sixth goal of the season in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes.

Kwara United and Bendel Insurance Find Redemption
In Ilorin, Kwara United silenced the buzz of Katsina United with a vital 1-0 win. Elsewhere, Bendel Insurance celebrated Isaac Annor’s 83rd-minute winner, lifting them to 15th place despite earlier sanctions.

The weekend was a testament to the unpredictable beauty of Nigerian football—a landscape where giants fall, underdogs rise, and every game tells a story.

2024 Delta Online Publishers Forum DOPF Convention held in Asaba, Communique released

I am pleased to present the communique from our 2024 Convention and Lecture Series, themed “Security Challenges: Finding Implementable Local Solutions.”

The event brought together stakeholders from diverse sectors and featured ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, MNIPR, MIPRA, FCAI, the Force Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Police Force, as the Guest Speaker. His insightful contributions, alongside a panel of seasoned discussants on security and social issues, provided valuable perspectives on addressing security challenges. The esteemed panel included Amb. (Past) Edewor Egedegbe, Founding Executive Director of Value Rebirth Initiative; Bridget Dominion Foh Affiah, Executive Director of The Ideal Women Advancement Initiative; Odita Sunday-Udemaguna, Head of Defense/Security Affairs at The Guardian Newspaper; and Prof. Emmanus Odikaeseme, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN), Delta State.

The event was chaired by Elder Emma Ogidi, FCE, FNIPR, and former Security Adviser on Neighbourhood Watch, the Delta State Governor.

We were honoured by the presence of the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, as the Special Guest of Honour. The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Imomotimi Guwor, represented by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, served as the Guest of Honour. Also represented were the Commissioner of Police, Delta State; the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS); the Nigerian Correctional Service; the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC); and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). Their participation, alongside interest groups such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Delta State Chapter, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), underscored a shared commitment to fostering innovative and practical solutions for enhanced community safety and social harmony.

This event was made possible with the support of various organizations and individuals, including the Delta State Government, Tantita Security Services Limited, Elysian Homes and Properties, the Delta State Ministry of Information, the Delta State Ministry of Health, the Delta State Orientation Bureau, the Office of the Senator representing Delta Central in the National Assembly, the Delta State Broadcasting Service, Asaba and News Central, Lagos.

This communique encapsulates the robust deliberations and resolutions from the event, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts, equity, and moral rejuvenation in tackling security and societal challenges. We remain steadfast in our mission to drive conversations and actions that promote societal transformation.

Emmanuel O. Enebeli, ANIPR

Chairman, Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF)

The communique outlined the following resolutions:

Security is a Collective Responsibility
Security should not be solely left to security agencies. Every individual has a role to play in ensuring a safer society, fostering a communal effort to tackle insecurity effectively.
Empowering Traditional Rulers
Traditional rulers should be vested with more authority to secure their communities. Their intimate knowledge of the people and the terrain makes them more effective in addressing local security challenges compared to external security personnel.
Community-Driven Security Solutions
Communities must take proactive measures to address security issues within their jurisdictions. Local solutions are deemed the most effective, as most security challenges originate from within communities where people know one another.
Discouraging the Celebration of Questionable Wealth
Society, including individuals, religious organizations, and families, must desist from celebrating or glorifying individuals whose wealth sources are questionable.
Rejecting Untraceable Financial Gifts
Parents and religious groups must refuse financial gifts from individuals with untraceable sources of wealth. Instead, such acts should be publicly rebuked to set a moral precedent.
Promoting Equity, Justice, and Fairness
Government officials must exhibit fairness and justice in their dealings with all citizens, irrespective of social or economic status. Bias toward the wealthy at the expense of the less privileged must be eradicated.
Reforming Police Strategies
The Nigeria Police Force must adopt more flexible and community-centred approaches to security issues. The forum supported the implementation of community policing as a strategy to curb crime effectively at the grassroots level.
Economic Challenges Are No Excuse for Crime

Economic hardship should not serve as justification for engaging in criminal activities. The law remains unyielding in prosecuting offenders who hide under such excuses.

Incorporating Security Education into School Curricula

The school curriculum should be revised to introduce security education as a subject in both primary and secondary schools. This will equip young people with the knowledge to understand and address security challenges.
Vigilance Among POS Operators and Okada Riders

Point of Sale (POS) operators and commercial motorcycle (Okada) riders must remain vigilant to avoid being used by criminals for illicit activities and as tools for escape.
Communal Responsibility in Security Management

Citizens and communities must stop blaming the government entirely for security failures. Instead, they should devise practical strategies to improve their collective well-being and address security issues locally.

Traditional Rulers Must Uphold Integrity
Traditional rulers must avoid involvement in criminal activities. They should act as custodians of morality and security within their domains, refusing to aid or abet criminal elements.
Restoring Moral Values

There is an urgent need for a societal rebirth to restore lost moral values. This includes rejecting behaviors that debase individuals and communities, thereby fostering integrity and accountability.
Criminalizing Result Forgery by Parents
Parents who buy or forge examination results for their children should be regarded as criminals and face prosecution. Such actions undermine societal values and erode trust in educational institutions.
Revisiting Traditional Crime-Combating Methods

Age-long and culturally rooted methods of combating crime should be explored and integrated into modern security strategies.

Ending Politically Motivated Crime Support
Public officials must refrain from encouraging or supporting criminal activities at the grassroots level for political expediency. Such actions compromise the security and stability of local communities.

The communique reflects a commitment to fostering a secure and morally upright society through individual, communal, and institutional efforts. The DOPF remains steadfast in its role as a voice for societal transformation and accountability

Signed:

The Communique Draft Committee

Augustine Oyibode
Chairman

Kenneth Orusi Secretary

Shedrack Onitsha, Mnipr
Secretary, DOPF