"The Woman Who 'Died' but Never Left: The Mystery of Gloria Okon." In 1985, a young woman named Gloria Okon was arrested at Aminu Kano International Airport.  She was caught with a suitcase full of substances, and back then, the law was terrifyingly simple: Under the military decree, drug trafficking carried the death penalty by firing squad. The nation waited for her trial.  But just a few days later, the news broke like a thunderbolt: Gloria Okon is dead.  The authorities claimed she died in her cell after falling ill.  But this is where the mystery and the scandal truly begins. Was she really dead, or was she "spirited away?" Many Nigerians didn't believe the official story. Rumors began to fly that Gloria was just a "mule" working for a very powerful "Big Man" (or a Big Woman).  The theory was that she didn't die at all; instead, a body was swapped in her place, and the real Gloria was flown...

NIGER DELTA YOUTH LEADER, COMRADE MINGO, CELEBRATES PANDEF NATIONAL LEADER, AMB. GODKNOWS IGALI, ON HIS BIRTHDAY By Egbema Voicr A respected Niger Delta youth leader, Comrade Mingo Sayami Ogumaka, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the National Leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Godknows Igali, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary celebrated on April 5. In a goodwill message made available to the press, Comrade Mingo described Ambassador Igali as an outstanding statesman, seasoned diplomat, scholar, and a pillar of leadership whose lifelong commitment to the Niger Delta struggle has remained unwavering. He noted that Amb. Igali’s contributions to peacebuilding, regional advocacy, and national development have distinguished him as one of the most respected voices from the Niger Delta. Comrade Mingo the publisher of EgbemaVoice News highlighted that Amb. Igali, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Sweden and a highly accomplished public servant...

By Egbemavoice  The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro, has extended felicitations to Nigeria’s former ambassador to the Scandinavian countries and national chairman of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Dr Godknows Boladei Igali, on the occasion of his 66th birthday. Dr Otuaro described Ambassador Igali as an elder statesman, seasoned career diplomat, scholar and author, who distinguished himself in public service. He celebrated the PANDEF leader for his meritorious service to the country, and contributions to the development of Bayelsa State, Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta. According to him, Ambassador Igali is a man of honour, well-respected Pan-Niger Delta leader and significant pillar of the region, whose voice resonates within and outside the shores of the nation. Dr Otuaro congratulated the retired federal permanent secretary and former secretary to the Government of Bayelsa State on attaining the milestone, and prayed t...

“BUHARI JAILED HIM FOR 100 YEARS”: THE STORY OF Ambrose Folorunsho Alli By EgbemaVoice Before the politics, before the controversy, Ambrose Folorunsho Alli was a brilliant medical doctor and respected professor—one of Nigeria’s finest minds. In 1979, he made history as the first civilian governor of old Bendel State (now Edo State and Delta State). And he came prepared. Alli didn’t waste time. He launched free education, expanded schools, improved infrastructure, and founded what is today known as Ambrose Alli University—a legacy that still shapes thousands of lives. To many, he was more than a governor—he was a visionary who believed the future of Bendel lay in education. But everything changed after the 1983 Nigerian military coup. In 1984, under the military regime of Muhammadu Buhari, Alli was arrested and tried by a military tribunal. He was accused of financial mismanagement involving public funds. The verdict was shocking: He was sentenced to 100 years imprisonment. ...

By EgbemaVoice, Nigeria truly played a frontline role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. To your question: No, not enough South Africans today fully know or appreciate Nigeria’s role—but it’s a bit more nuanced than that. During the era of apartheid, the support Nigeria gave to the African National Congress (ANC) was widely known among activists, leaders, and those directly involved in the struggle. Figures like Nelson Mandela and others openly acknowledged Nigeria’s contributions—financial, diplomatic, and moral. However, over time, several things have happened: 1. Generational gap Many younger South Africans today were born after apartheid ended in 1994. Their education on the struggle often focuses more on internal heroes and events within South Africa, rather than international contributors like Nigeria. 2. Shifting national narratives Every country tends to center its own story. In South Africa, the narrative of liberation rightly highlights...

By EgbemaVoice, The Delta State Government has evacuated no fewer than 34 students of the University of Jos, following the recent security crisis in Plateau State, assuring them of safety and continued support. Speaking during a reception of the evacuated students, the State Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode, commended the swift intervention approved by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and coordinated by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Comrade Ezekiel Okoh.  He noted that the evacuation became necessary, following the closure of university by the school authority. Onoriode expressed gratitude that students of the state origin, returned home safely, describing the development as a testament to proactive governance and effective coordination.  He encouraged the students to use the Easter period to rest and remain hopeful, assuring them that normalcy would soon return to the troubled region. “It is an unusual time for Nig...

By EgbemaVoice, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm Easter greetings to Christians across Delta State and Nigeria, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Governor Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, emphasized that Easter represents a season of hope, sacrifice, and renewal, reminding believers of the triumph of light over darkness and life over death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He called on Christians to draw inspiration from the virtues of love, humility, perseverance, and selflessness exemplified by Jesus Christ, noting that such values are essential for building a more united, peaceful, and prosperous society.  GovernorOborevwori, said: "This sacred season reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, His triumphant resurrection, and the eternal hope it brings to humanity. "As we commemorate the resurrection ...

THE GOVERNOR WHO FACED THE FIRE AND DIDN'T BURN  The Incredible Story of Dr. Clement Isong. When the military took over in the final days of 1983, the rules changed overnight.  Across Nigeria, governors were being rounded up, their offices ransacked, and their legacies put on trial. No one was "above the law." No one was safe.  In the middle of this storm stood Dr. Clement Nyong Isong.  He wasn't just the Governor of Cross River State; he was an economist, a former Central Bank Governor, and a man who lived by the ledger. A Leader of Substance, Not Noise  Isong didn't play "politics as usual." He ran Cross River with the cold, hard logic of a banker.  While the country's economy was wavering, he focused on: Turning agriculture into a real economic engine for the state. Establishing the groundwork for local manufacturing. Managing state resources with a level of transparency that was rare for the time. His face eventually being placed on t...

MR. & MRS. PRECIOUS NANAMINI EBIWEI EXPRESS DEEP APPRECIATION TO DIGNITARIES, FAMILY, AND WELL-WISHERS FOR SUPPORT AT THEIR MARRIAGE CEREMONY, By EgbemaVoice, Mr. and Mrs. Precious Nanamini Ebiwei have extended their heartfelt appreciation to dignitaries, family members, friends, and well-wishers who honored their traditional marriage ceremony with their presence, support, and goodwill. In a message made available to EgbemaVoice News, Comrade Precious Ebiwei, a youth leader, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of his family to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules and made sacrifices to ensure the success of the ceremony. “I most respectfully, on behalf of my family, appreciate everyone who found time to attend and contribute to the success of our traditional marriage ceremony. You made us feel truly important. Your presence and financial support are deeply appreciated,” he stated. He particularly thanked the Ebiwei and Abilo families for their immense e...

THE PHONE CALL THAT SAVED A NATION: GOODLUCK JONATHAN AND THE POWER OF CONCESSION  On March 31, 2015, Nigeria was a ticking time bomb.  The air was thick with tension, streets were quiet, and families were stocking up on food, fearing the worst.  History had taught us that in Africa, sitting Presidents don't just "lose" and walk away.  But while the final results were still trickling in, something miraculous happened.  One phone call changed the course of history. President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan sat in the Villa, watching the numbers.  He was the Commander-in-Chief, with the entire military and state apparatus at his beck and call.  Many "advisors" urged him to dig in, to reject the results, or to declare a state of emergency.  Instead, he picked up the phone.  He dialed his opponent, General Muhammadu Buhari. "Congratulations, Your Excellency. I have called to concede defeat." With those few words, the tension that ...

By Egbema Voice News A prominent Niger Delta youth leader, Comrade Mingo Sayami Ogumaka, has raised alarm over what he described as a troubling shift among key Ijaw leadership structures, accusing them of abandoning the foundational demands of the Niger Delta struggle in pursuit of personal and political interests. In a strongly worded statement issued on Easter Saturday, Comrade Sayami criticized influential stakeholders—including the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), and notable ex-agitators—alleging that they have deviated from the core mission of advocating for justice, equity, and development in the oil-rich region. According to him, the original objectives of the Niger Delta struggle—rooted in resource control, environmental justice, infrastructural development, and improved living conditions—are increasingly being sidelined, leaving the ordinary people disconnected from leadership priorities. “It is dishea...

WAHALA DEY! "IBB was involved in the Dimka Coup that killed Murtala!" Vatsa’s Wife Drops Bombshell  Omo, history is really a scary place!  If you think you’ve heard it all about the 1976 coup that claimed the life of the legendary General Murtala Muhammed, then you need to sit down for this one. A vintage cover of P.M. News (August 2006) has resurfaced, and it’s shaking the table of Nigeria’s military history.  Hajia Sufiya Vatsa, the widow of the late General Mamman Vatsa, isn't holding anything back.  She has come out with a heavy allegation that could change how we see the "Evil Genius" himself, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB). According to Hajia Sufiya, IBB was allegedly one of the masterminds behind the February 13, 1976 coup led by Buka Suka Dimka. Wait, let that sink in.  For years, the official story was that IBB was the "hero" who walked into Radio Nigeria unarmed to talk Dimka out of the coup.  But Sufiya Vatsa is singing a diffe...

The Era of the Kingmakers: Understanding the "New Godfathers" of 2003 The May 26, 2003, edition of Newswatch magazine captured a defining moment in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.  Titled "The New Godfathers," the cover story exposed the deep-seated influence of political kingmakers who controlled the fates of several state governors across the federation. Following the 2003 general elections, a new breed of political sponsors emerged.  These individuals did not just provide financial and grassroots support; they demanded absolute loyalty and a "return on investment" from the governors they helped put into power. The cover featured the faces of men who were the undisputed "Garrison Commanders" of their regions: • Chris Uba (Anambra State): Perhaps the most controversial figure of that era.  His fallout with Governor Chris Ngige led to the infamous July 2003 "Civilian Coup," where a sitting governor was abducted by security forces after refus...

The Sunday He Never Made It to Church: The Passing of Oba Adelabu I, October 30, 1988.  Imagine waking up on a bright Sunday morning, getting dressed in your finest white lace, your traditional beads heavy around your neck, ready to go and give thanks to God, only for that to be your final act on earth. This was the reality for the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba George Adeyemi Samuel Adelabu I, on Sunday, October 23, 1988. A Morning of "Hale and Hearty" Goodbyes According to this rare report from The Republic, the Oba woke up in high spirits.  As the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas at the time, he was a man of immense influence, but on this morning, he was simply a devoted Christian preparing for service. 8:00 AM: He hosted a close friend for a "usual chit-chat." No signs of illness.  No complaints.  Just a king enjoying a Sunday morning. After his friend left, the Oba spoke to his Olori (Eyesorun).  He told her time was running out and promised he...

THE GOVERNOR JAILED FOR BORROWING ₦50,000: THE TRAGEDY OF APER AKU  Imagine building an empire, only to be locked up for a fraction of what you created.  This is the heartbreaking story of Aper Aku, the man who transformed Benue State, only to be broken by a military tribunal. In the early 1980s, if you talked about "development" in Nigeria, you were talking about Aper Aku.  He wasn't just a politician; he was a visionary. From the Benue Brewery to Ikpayongo Market, and the iconic Aper Aku Stadium, he was building a modern state from scratch.  The people loved him because they could see their tax money working in real-time. Everything changed on New Year’s Eve, 1983. Major General Muhammadu Buhari’s military coup swept through Nigeria’s statehouses.  The "fragile democracy" crumbled, and civilian governors were rounded up like common criminals.  In Makurdi, the soldiers came for the bald-headed, plain-speaking man who had given Benue its pride. ...

Oborevwori Congratulates Ohworode Of Olomu On Emergence As Chairman Body Of Benchers By EgbemaVoice Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, His Majesty Albert Akpomudje, SAN, FCIArb, Eyavwie-Alaka I, on his emergence as the 54th Chairman of the Nigerian Body of Benchers. Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, expressed pride over the monarch’s elevation, describing it as a moment of honour for Delta State and its people.  He noted that Deltans are delighted by the recognition accorded the revered traditional ruler and legal luminary, and wished him a successful and impactful tenure. Governor Oborevwori, said: "On behalf of my family, the government and the good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, His Majesty Albert Akpomudje, SAN, FCIArb, Eyavwie-Alaka I, on his emergence as the 54th Chairman of the Nigerian Body of Benchers...

The "Palace Coup" of 1993 and the Broken Promise On November 17, 1993, Nigeria’s political landscape changed forever.  This wasn't a coup of flying bullets and midnight sirens, but a quiet, high-stakes "Palace Coup" that took place within the walls of Aso Rock. Following the chaos of the June 12 annulment, the Interim National Government (ING) led by Chief Ernest Shonekan was struggling for breath.  On that Wednesday evening, General Sani Abacha, accompanied by Lt. Gen. Oladipo Diya and Maj. Gen. Aliyu Gusau, paid Shonekan a visit.  By the time the meeting ended, Shonekan had "resigned," and the military was back in full control. This 1994 Newswatch cover featuring David Mark blew the lid off what happened behind the scenes.  According to Mark, the coup was initially presented to many officers as a short-term "rescue mission." The "Original Plan," he claimed, was for the military to stay for only 6 to 12 months, fix the ...

Mulade Storms Portugal For Soccer Investment. By EgbemaVoice, Foremost Niger Delta philanthropist and Chairman of the Delta state mini football association, Dr. Mulade Sheriff, and the President of the Mini Football Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Datti Umar Yusuf have stormed Portugal to witness the biggest grassroots football tournament in the world. Ambassador Mulade, who double as Vice President, Nigeria Mini Football Association said it is paramount to explore this trip to gain more knowledge to help launch and enhance his Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy.  He said he is impressed with the ongoing IBERCUP, 2026. Which is being attended by over 400 football teams from more than 30 countries in the world, for under 10-18 years old. "It's beautiful and amazing to see kids between the ages of 10-18 from different parts of the world displaying their soccer skills in a very good atmosphere where they can easily be picked by scouts," he said....

PUBLIC ANALYST YEIGAGHA BACKS IPF: "EX-AGITATORS MUST THINK BEYOND SURVEILLANCE CONTRACTS, STRATEGIZE FOR OIL BLOCK ACQUISITION, OTHERS"  "From Pipeline Protection to Petroleum Ownership: Redefining the Niger Delta Agenda" By Engr. Yeigagha Henry, JP The conversation in the Niger Delta has, once again, circled around a familiar axis: pipeline surveillance contracts, who controls them, and who feels excluded. But beneath the noise lies a more fundamental question that demands urgent attention: is the region prepared to move from the margins of the oil economy to its commanding heights? It is in this context that Yeigagha’s support for the IPF’s position becomes not just relevant, but necessary. The call on ex-agitators to shift focus from surveillance contracts to the acquisition of oil blocks, and to desist from targeting individuals such as Government Ekpemupolo, Mathew Tonlagha, and Dennis Otuaro, is a bold appeal for strategic thinking over emotiona...

Let's fight for oil blocs, relocation of IOCs headquarters to Niger Delta, not pipeline contracts -IPF By EgbemaVoice, The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) has expressed concern over disagreements among ex-agitators and stakeholders over pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta region. In a press conference held on April 2, 2026, the group urged leaders to focus on pressing issues affecting the region, rather than squabbling over contracts. IPF President Comrade Ozobo Austin stated that the focus on Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited contract is a distraction from core demands like environmental justice, resource control, and self-determination. He noted that pipeline surveillance is not exclusive to Tantita, and other firms are engaged in the process as well. The group emphasised that Tompolo is not the problem, and the gains from Tantita's participation in pipeline surveillance are visible, including job creation and improved security. They appeal...

By EgbemaVoice, The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce with the ongoing development of the College of Health Technology, Ovrode, in Isoko North Local Government Area. The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, made this known during an inspection of ongoing works at the new institution.  He was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu; the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon; the Chief Job Creation Officer, Mr Ifeanyi Egwunyenga; and the Project Manager, Dr Ngozi Orofuke. Speaking during the inspection, Onojaeme emphasized the urgent need to train both medical and non-medical personnel to address critical manpower shortages in the state’s health sector.  According to him, the college would play a vital role in producing middle-level healthcare professionals required to manage emerging and existing medical facilities ac...

By EgbemaVoice, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm felicitations to the Olu of Warri Kingdom, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, on the occasion of his 42nd birth anniversary on April 2, 2026. The governor commended the revered monarch for his unwavering commitment to promoting harmony and stimulating economic growth in the kingdom since his ascension to the throne. In a statement issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori noted that the reign of the Olu of Warri has brought remarkable transformation to the Kingdom. He described the monarch’s conduct as admirable, emphasizing that his sense of dignity and dedication to duty has continued to elevate the status of the traditional institution. Governor Oborevwori, said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the good people of Delta State, I heartily celebrate Your Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, as you mark your 42nd birth a...

*OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, BAYELSA STATE.* Visitation Panel Proposes Higher Education Ministry In Bayelsa, The Visitation Panel for Bayelsa State Tertiary Institutions set up by Governor Douye Diri in May last year has submitted its reports with a proposal for creation of a Ministry of Higher Education in the state. Chairman of the panel, Dr. Oyovwin Osusu, made the proposal on Wednesday in Government House, Yenagoa, when the panel presented its findings and recommendations to Governor Douye Diri. Dr. Osusu noted that with increase in the number of tertiary institutions, it had become necessary for the state government to separate the supervision of higher institutions from the present Ministry of Education. Osusu, who also chaired the visitation panel to the University of Africa, Toru-Orua (UAT), averred that if considered, the ministry would streamline the operational policies and structural administration of the state’s tertiary institutions. He said: “I chaired the panel to the U...

By EgbemaVoice, The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has called for calm and unity among Ijaw ex-agitators and key stakeholders following rising disagreements over pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta. In a press conference held on April 2, 2026, the Forum expressed concern over what it described as growing distractions and internal conflicts, warning that such divisions threaten the collective struggle for justice, resource control, and development in the region. IPF emphasized that the controversy surrounding pipeline surveillance contracts, particularly involving Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, is misplaced and should not overshadow critical issues affecting the Niger Delta. The Forum noted that Tantita’s involvement has yielded positive results, including improved security, increased oil production, and job creation. The group further stressed that pipeline surveillance is not exclusive to any single company, as other firms are also enga...