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Street Journalist, 4. Waterworks Road, Alode Eleme, Port Harcourt (2026)

26/04/2026

Family Celebrates Albert Badey’s 90th Posthumous Birthday..unveils ABCD legacy centre

By Emmanuel Obe

The family of the late Mr. Albert Badey on Saturday in Port Harcourt marked his 90th posthumous birthday, using the occasion to call for peace as the foundation for progress in Ogoniland.

Badey, a former Secretary to the Government of the old Rivers State, was killed by a mob on May 21, 1995, alongside three other Ogoni leaders—collectively known as the “Ogoni Four”—at Giokoo, Gokana Local Government Area, during a meeting to address Ogoni issues.

The killings occurred at the height of the Ogoni crisis, which later led to the trial and conviction of writer and environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others. Last year, the Federal Government conferred national honours on Badey and the three others killed with him, and granted pardons to the nine convicted persons.

Despite the painful history, the Badey family said it has chosen the path of reconciliation.

“This is the time to move forward. We have no more grudges in our hearts. There is no need for continuous acrimony,” said Mr. Suage Badey, son of the deceased.

He urged Ogoni people to embrace dialogue in resolving differences but cautioned against actions that could endanger lives. “If my father were alive, he would have called for forgiveness, even for those who took his life,” he added.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Albert Badey Centre for Development (ABCD), established to promote the ideals and values the late statesman stood for.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and associates, including former Rivers State Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby; Dr. Emmanuel Denenu; Mr. Harcourt Adukeh; and Senator Bennet Burabi.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma. Other dignitaries included Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, Ambassador-designate to Ireland, Chief Onueze Okocha, and veteran journalist Donu Kogbara, all of whom spoke highly of Badey’s legacy.

Earlier, at a church service, the Methodist Archbishop of Port Harcourt, Most Rev. Effiong Esedeke, likened Badey to Burkina Faso’s former leader, Thomas Sankara, describing both men as visionaries who were ultimately betrayed.

Badey is credited with influencing key developmental strides in Ogoniland, including the siting of Rivers State Polytechnic (now Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic), the establishment of highland oil palm plantations, and the creation of four local government areas.

A distinguished scholar, he graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1962 after recording the best Higher School Certificate result in West Africa in 1958 at Methodist College, Uzuakoli. He served in the civil service of the defunct Eastern Nigeria and old Rivers State, rising to the position of Permanent Secretary in 1973.

He hailed from Bodo City in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.

11/04/2026

Live from Oporoza, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State
By Emmanuel Obe

Thousands of women line up for an empowerment package from High Chief Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo as part of the Amaseikumor Festival.

The Amaseikumor Festival isan annual traditional festival carried out in the Gbaramatu Kingdom to cleanse the land.

The festival, which is presided over by the Pere of Gbaramatu, HRM Akete Gbaraun II Akatepe Agadagba, started on Monday, April 6 and climaxes today, Saturday April 18, 2026.

There were special processions and celebration of the Gbaraun Egbesu, Ibolomobo-ere and Amaseikumor deities during the week.

On the final day, visitors are expected to grace the celebrations from all over the world.

Meanwhile, the community has remained in the celebration mood since on Monday when the festival started. On Friday, Isoko National FC Beat Ogolagha FC to win the 2026 Amaseikumor Festival football tournament.

The women showered praised on High Chief Government Ekpemupolo and other eminent sons of Gbaramatu Kingdom for remembering them in the empowerment programme. The programme is not limited to only women from Gbaramatu Kingdom. All women that were able to be present at the Oporoza.

10/04/2026

2026 Gbaramatu Festival Peaks With Amaseikumor Display
By Emmanuel Obe

The famous annual festival of Gbaraun Egbesu, Ibolomobo-ere and Amaseikumo is climaxing on Saturday, April 11 at the Oporoza, headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.

Dignitaries are expected from all over the world including the Presidency, Ministers, state governors and traditional rulers from all over the country.

This year's edition commenced on Monday, April 6 with the celebration of Ibolomobo-ere, the Mother Deity. This was followed with the celebration of Gbaraun Egbesu Deity on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. All the celebrations were done in the Temple.

On Friday, the Black Masquerade is expected to emerge to cleanse the environment to pave the way for the climax on Saturday when Amaseikumor will be showcased.

So far, the community has been agog with activities with the active participation of members of Gbaramatu kingdom and their kit and kin from other Ijaw kingdoms in the Niger Delta.

The festival has also incorporated a football tournament, chess competition, draft tussle, and live performances by prominent Ijaw bands.

At the centre of the affairs are High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the King of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Pere Akatepe Agadagba, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, who is sponsoring a medical outreach, and other prominent sons of Gbaramatu Kingdom.

According to the Chairman of Organizing Committee, Chief Engr. Kestin Pondi, said the annual Amaseikumo festival is to foster unity, cleaning of the land, healing of the sick, sharing of love, praying for peace, protection and restoration of purpose of getting rid of and preventing evil upon the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom/ljaw nation in particular, and Nigeria at large.

He noted that the Amaseikumo festival is one of the ancient traditional celebrations handed down by their ancestors to be observed annually by the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom by the founding fathers.

While enlightening the public about the great festival, Pondi stated that Amaseikumo means good living, peace, unity, prosperity and protection to the people of the various communities that made up Gbaramatu Kingdom.

However, the Chairman 2026 Amaseikumo festival organizing committee use this medium to invite the general public, especially lovers of ljaw tradition, Gbaramatu Kingdom to attend this very significant event, adding that alot of activities would take place for the interest of humanity and the society.

The statement further adds that adequate security apparatus has been put in place to curb disorderliness, noting that whoever that comes to grace the one week long event will receive breakthrough, healing, fruitfulness of the womb, divine favour and shall never lack again in his or her life.

01/04/2026

New NLNG MD/CEO, Falade Vows To Sustain Global Competitiveness

By Emmanuel Obe

The newly appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, Mr. Adeleye Falade, has outlined his vision to sustain the company’s position as a reliable global supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas while strengthening the role of gas in Nigeria’s long-term economic development.

Falade, an accomplished energy executive with extensive experience across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Russia and Africa, said his leadership would focus on operational discipline, strong governance, investment rigour, safety and human capital development.

“As MD/CEO of NLNG, I am focused on sustaining NLNG’s position as a reliable global LNG supplier while strengthening the role of gas in Nigeria’s long-term economic development,” Falade stated.

He emphasised that the long-term success of the energy sector depends on operational efficiency and a strong commitment to people development, noting that NLNG remains a strategic enabler of energy security and industrial growth in Nigeria.

“At NLNG, our priority is to maintain reliability, deliver expansion responsibly, and ensure the company continues to create sustainable value for Nigeria. I am committed to strengthening operational resilience, developing talent and ensuring that NLNG remains a strategic enabler of energy security and industrial growth,” he added.

Before his appointment, Falade served as Managing Director of Brunei LNG. He also worked with Shell Namibia as Country Director and was General Manager, Production, at NLNG. In addition, he served as Regional AMS Implementation Manager at Shell in The Hague.

Falade began his professional career at Michelin in 1995 as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member before joining Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in 1996, where he worked until 2008. He subsequently held various strategic roles at Shell Dubai and Shell Iraq before joining Shell’s LNG Operations in 2014.

In 2015, he moved to NLNG in Bonny, later rejoining Shell in 2018, where he continued to build a strong record of leadership in technically complex and commercially sensitive environments.

Falade had his secondary education at Government College, Ibadan, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the University of Ibadan.

Industry stakeholders have expressed optimism that his wealth of international experience will strengthen NLNG’s operational resilience, boost investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market.

29/03/2026

King Suanu Makes First Public Statement After Surviving Assassination Attempt

The King of Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State has made his first personal reaction to the attempt to assassinate him on January 25, 2026.

In a statement on his Facebook handle on Sunday, King Suanu expressed his gratitude to all those who sympathisers with him and offered prayers for his quick recovery.

He said, "To all who have offered prayers and support for my recovery, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. I especially thank the entire Ogoni community—our youth, women, Gwara women, and all others who stood by me. Your kindness and solidarity have been invaluable.

"As we move forward, let us unite to celebrate our people. Khana and Nyo-Khana are integral parts of Ogoniland, encompassing numerous villages and communities.

"Together, we are strong and resilient. May God bless each and every one of you. I am alive."

King Suanu was attacked somewhere between Sogho and Kaani. It was the second time that he had been attacked.

24/03/2026

Nwobodo Appointed Media Adviser to Enugu Governor

Veteran journalist and media manager, Mr. Onyekwere Nwobodo, has been appointed Special Adviser on Media to the Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

Nwobodo, a seasoned media professional with decades of experience in journalism and public communication, was formerly a correspondent and editor with The Punch newspapers. He later served as Managing Director of the Enugu State Newspaper Corporation, publishers of the Daily Star newspapers.

Reacting to the appointment, Nwobodo described it as both an honour and a challenge, saying he accepted the responsibility with humility and a strong sense of duty.

“Time to serve, yet again: Folks, you may or may not have heard that His Excellency, the Governor of our dear state, Enugu, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has graciously appointed me his Special Adviser, Media. I can confirm that to you, dear family,” he said.

He added that the appointment was a significant opportunity to contribute to the administration of a leader he has long admired.

“It was a gesture I considered such a big honour, and a challenge at the same time, and one I did not hesitate to accept with humility. I have never hidden my love and admiration for His Excellency Governor Mbah, both prior to and since the inception of his administration,” Nwobodo said.

Highlighting his connection to the governor, Nwobodo noted that both hail from Nkanu, describing Mbah as “a special breed” who “walks the talk.”

He called on friends, colleagues and stakeholders to support him in the new role, pledging total commitment to effectively communicate the programmes and policies of the Enugu State Government.

“To me, this is a call to duty, and I pledge to give it my all. Governor Mbah and indeed Ndi Enugu deserve nothing short of total commitment in whatever capacity or portfolio we function,” he said.

Nwobodo’s appointment is expected to strengthen the media and communications architecture of the Enugu State Government, leveraging his extensive experience in journalism, public affairs and media management.
.. By Emmanuel Obe

23/03/2026

FG Extends Completion Date For Eleme Section Of East-West Road

The Federal Government has shifted the completion date for the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State from May 2026 to December 2026, citing the need to incorporate additional features and ensure durable construction.

Minister of Works, Mr. David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection tour of ongoing road projects, including key segments of the East-West Road. He explained that the revised timeline would allow for the installation of solar-powered street lights, tree planting, retaining walls, and other improvements aimed at enhancing the quality and longevity of the project.

The Eleme axis of the road project, which commenced in September 2023, has now witnessed its completion deadline extended for the third time. The initial target was May 2025, later revised to December 2025, and subsequently May 2026, before the latest shift to December 2026.

Umahi noted that the pace of work may appear slow due to the technical demands of the construction, which involves deep excavation, reinforcement of the foundation with sandstone, and the laying of concrete pavement designed to withstand heavy traffic.

Speaking on the Onne section of the project, the minister stated that the contractor remains fully mobilised to site and that the Federal Government has met its financial obligations to the company. He added that while the first phase of the project is expected to be completed by August 2026, other components, including flyovers and bridges, are projected for completion before the end of the year.

Also commenting, the Federal Controller of Works in Rivers State, Mrs. Tarilade Enwerema, expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded so far. According to her, the Eket-bound carriageway has been completed, while work is ongoing on the Port Harcourt-bound lane. She further disclosed that the Onne Flyover remains on schedule for completion by May 2026.

The East-West Road is a major transport corridor linking several states in the Niger Delta and is considered critical to economic activities, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
..By Emmanuel Obe

17/03/2026

Benin Palace Summons Influencer, Sanctions Chief, Queen Over Unauthorized Access

The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has summoned a social media influencer, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as “Peller,” over an alleged unauthorized entry into the Benin Palace, describing the incident as a serious breach of protocol and desecration of a sacred institution.

In a press release dated March 16, 2026, the Council said the incident occurred on March 6, 2026, when Adelaja and his entourage reportedly gained access to the Palace without approval, causing what it termed “significant embarrassment” and a disturbance within the premises.

The Council stressed that the Palace of the Oba of Benin is not a public space for casual visits or content creation, but a revered traditional and spiritual seat governed by longstanding customs and protocols.

Following a preliminary investigation, the BTC announced disciplinary actions against individuals found to have facilitated the influencer’s entry. A palace chief implicated in the incident has been placed on indefinite suspension, while a staff member of the Council, identified as Mr. Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged to court for allegedly aiding the unauthorized access and causing a breach of peace.

The Council also disclosed that a queen who appeared in the controversial content is currently facing internal disciplinary proceedings, which could lead to her removal from the Palace in line with Benin customs and traditions.

According to the statement, the Council had invited Adelaja to appear before a committee of chiefs investigating the matter, but he has yet to honour the invitation.

The BTC has now publicly called on the influencer to present himself before the Council and issue an unreserved written apology for his actions, warning that failure to comply may result in legal action. It added that law enforcement agencies have been put on notice to take necessary steps if required.

Reaffirming its role as custodian of Benin customs and traditions, the Council assured the public that it would continue to safeguard the sanctity and dignity of the throne and take firm action against any violations.

08/03/2026

Dandeson Jaja, Amanyanabo of Opobo, For Burial April 11

The remains of the late Amanyanabo of Opobo, HRM Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, have been slated for burial on April 11, 2026.

An official source at the Palace confirmed that the ceremonies leading to the final burial began on Saturday, March 7th and would run through to April 11th, 2026.

King Jaja passed on late last year after a brief illness. He was the fifth king of Opobo after several kings that succeeded the first King Jaja of Opobo, who founded Opobo at the estuary of the Imo River in 1870.

Details of the other elaborate ceremonies will be unveiled as the final date draws close.

08/03/2026

Former Rivers Speaker Builds 200-Capacity Lecture Theatre for Bonny Polytechnic

Former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, has commenced the construction of a 200-capacity lecture theatre at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, in a move aimed at improving infrastructure and academic facilities in the institution.

The project began to take shape on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, when a team of surveyors and engineering experts commissioned by the former Speaker visited the institution to carry out preliminary technical assessments for the building.

According to a statement issued by the Polytechnic’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Anthony Ogbe, the team was received on behalf of the Rector, Dr. Victor Okolobah, by the Registrar of the institution, Mr. Pepple Adonye Emmanuel.

The Acting Director of Physical Planning of the Polytechnic, Architect Dare Oloko, was also present to guide the visiting professionals and show them the designated site for the proposed lecture theatre.

Leading the technical team, Mr. Emmanuel Oko-Jumbo assured the management of the institution that the project would be executed within a short period and would meet high quality standards.

The statement noted that the project represents an important collaboration between public office holders and educational institutions in addressing infrastructure gaps in tertiary education.

It described such partnerships as critical drivers of development, stressing that collaboration between political leaders, the private sector and civil society can help institutions achieve goals that may be difficult to accomplish alone.

The management of the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, led by Dr. Okolobah, expressed appreciation to Rt. Hon. Oko-Jumbo for what it described as a timely intervention to boost the school’s academic environment.

The institution also called on other well-meaning individuals and stakeholders to contribute to the growth and development of the Polytechnic.

The development comes at a time when attention has increasingly turned to the role of political office holders in improving public infrastructure, particularly in the education sector. Recently, the member representing Ahoada West/Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Victor Obuzor, also moved to intervene in the rehabilitation of a dilapidated secondary school in Odiokwu community after controversy erupted following an online post by a local resident, Winnie Miller, highlighting the poor state of the facility.
.. Emmanuel Obe

02/03/2026

Unidentified body of a man believed to have been killed on suspicion of being a thief was found at Ogbunabali roundabout in Port Harcourt this morning
Credit: kpokpor Master

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