INEC TASKS YOUTHS ON ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN CVR, WARNS AGAINST APATHY  The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified stakeholder engagement with Nigerian youths, urging them to take full advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise as a critical step toward strengthening democratic participation and national development. The event, convened by NYSC corps member and INEC advocate, Magaji Ndagi, focused on enhancing youth participation in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process under the theme “Enhancing Youth Engagement in Continuous Voter Registration.” The forum had in attendance representatives of the Commission, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as well as students and corps members. Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Commission, the National Commissioner, Mallam Mohammad Kudu Haruna, who also chaired the occasion, underscored the constitutional and legal foundations...

NIGERIA POLICE FORCE | OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE | FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA CONFIDENTIAL    FOR COMMISSIONERS OF POLICE ONLY   NIGERIA POLICE FORCE OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja   CIRCULAR REF: IGP/CIRCULAR/VCRU/001/2026 DATE: April 2026   CLASSIFICATION: CONFIDENTIAL   DISTRIBUTION: All 36 State Commissioners of Police and FCT Commissioner of Police   SUBJECT: ESTABLISHMENT OF THE VIOLENT CRIME RESPONSE UNIT (VCRU) IN ALL STATES OF THE FEDERATION AND THE FCT     1. PREAMBLE   I write to you as the Inspector General of Police with a clear sense of mission, urgency, and personal commitment to the transformation of the Nigeria Police Force into an institution that Nigerians can trust, respect, and rely upon for their safety.   As a former Commander of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, I write with the authority of someone who has seen this mandate fr...

BREAKING: SEIMBIRI KINGSHIP TUSSLE — EDEGBENE RULING HOUSE DECLARES (ASP) ERIC WAREBURUA AS FINAL KING-DESIGNATE The Edegbene Ruling House of Seimbiri Kingdom has officially announced (ASP) Eric Wareburua as the finalized candidate for the position of King-Designate, following a decisive meeting held on April 14, 2026. The resolution, reached after extensive deliberations among key stakeholders and elders of the ruling house, marks a significant step toward resolving the ongoing kingship process in the kingdom. According to sources within the ruling house, the selection of (ASP) Wareburua reflects a consensus decision aimed at upholding tradition, ensuring unity, and preserving the cultural heritage of Seimbiri Kingdom. The Edegbene Ruling House reaffirmed its commitment to due process and called on all indigenes and concerned parties to support the decision in the interest of peace, stability, and progress of the kingdom. Further developments are expected as the formal processes towar...

IROKO DAY 2026: HONOURING A LEGEND OF THE IJAW NATION A Tribute to His Royal Majesty, Pere Isaac A. Thikan, JP The Agadagba of Egbema Kingdom (Bini Pere III) April 14, 2026 Today, April 14, 2026, marks a moment of deep reflection, honour, and reverence as the people of Egbema Kingdom and the entire Ijaw nation commemorate Iroko Day—a solemn remembrance of a towering traditional institution and an enduring symbol of resistance, identity, and unity. This year’s observance is dedicated to the immortal legacy of His Royal Majesty, Pere Isaac A. Thikan, JP, the revered Agadagba of Egbema Kingdom, fondly remembered as Bini Pere III a monarch whose reign defined courage, cultural pride, and advocacy for the survival of the Ijaw people. Historical Significance of Iroko Day Iroko Day is not merely a remembrance; it is a cultural and historical institution rooted in honouring great ancestors whose lives shaped the destiny of their people. Like the mighty Iroko tree strong, resilient,...

By EgbemaVoice, The Electoral Committee of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has officially declared the results of its just-concluded presidential election held at Ijaw House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. According to the final figures released, High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei secured a decisive victory with a total of 317 votes, emerging ahead of other contenders in the race. Full Results: Prof. Franklin Osaisai – 162 votes Engr. Ebipamowei Wodu – 53 votes Chief T.K. Ogoriba – 11 votes Chief Nengi James – 4 votes Rear Admiral Woyenidikpete Geoffrey Yenga – 1 vote With this outcome, High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei has been duly elected as the new President of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body. The election process, which attracted delegates from various zones across the Niger Delta, was conducted under the supervision of the electoral committee, with key stakeholders closely monitoring proceedings to ensure transparency, fairness, and credibility. His emergence is wide...

By EgbemaVoice The Ijaw National Congress (INC) is currently facing serious internal concerns, as growing public reactions highlight dissatisfaction with recent developments, particularly the conduct of its leadership and electoral process. The Ijaw Women Rights Group, led by Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agary, has strongly criticized the decision of the INC’s discredited executive to proceed with elections despite calls for due process and dialogue. The group described the situation as more than a setback, warning of a dangerous drift fueled by both internal failures and suspected external interference aimed at weakening the unity of the Ijaw nation. They emphasized that unity must be built on justice, accountability, and transparency, urging all stakeholders to uphold constitutional processes and protect the integrity of the INC. The group called for immediate dialogue, responsible leadership, and full accountability, stressing that the dignity and future of the Ijaw people must ...

HISTORIC VICTORY: IJAW YOUTH LEADER, COMRADE MINGO, HAILS HIGH CHIEF BARR. MACDONALD IGBADIWEI’S EMERGENCE AS NEW FACE OF IJAW NATION By EgbemaVoice, The Ijaw Youth Leader, Comrade Mingo Meshach Saya Ogumaka, has heartily congratulated High Chief Barr. Macdonald Igbadiwei on his resounding victory in the 2026 Ijaw National Congress (INC) election, held at the revered Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Describing the outcome as both historic and well-deserved, Comrade Mingo noted that the emergence of High Chief Igbadiwei marks a defining moment for the Ijaw nation, signaling a new era of purposeful, courageous, and visionary leadership. According to him, High Chief Igbadiwei is a fearless, vocal, and principled leader who has consistently demonstrated an educationalist, unifier, dedicated and commitment to the preservation of Ijaw cultural heritage and the promotion of the Izon language. He further described him as a distinguished historian and a dedicated patriot whose ...

SITUATION REPORT MURDER OF TRADITIONAL RULER OF OCHAA AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY IN OHAJI/EGBEMA LGA, IMO STATE Date: April 10, 2026 Time: Approximately 1600hrs Location: Opposite Assa Central School, Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Imo State A tragic and shocking incident occurred on the above date and time, involving the brutal killing of the traditional ruler of Ochaa Autonomous Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State. The victim, HRH Eze Ekwueme Paulinus Ekwueme, was reportedly ambushed alongside his entourage by unknown gunmen while returning to Owerri after attending a community meeting. During the attack, the assailants opened fire on the convoy, resulting in the immediate death of the traditional ruler, three police officers attached to him, his driver, and two other occupants of the SUV vehicle. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers subsequently set the vehicle ablaze, burning the victims beyond recognition along with the SUV. The gruesome nature of the ...

By EgbemaVoice Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said the late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi was a man whose life left a lasting impact on people and communities. Speaking during the outing and thanksgiving service held in honour of the late federal legislator at the Beth-El Anglican Church, Koroma Deanery in Tai local government area of Rivers State on Sunday, Governor Diri urged Nigerians to nurture and value relationship, noting that good memories and legacies were the consolation of the living. He expressed regret over his inability to attend his funeral activities due to official commitments, including the recent hosting of the President. He said: “Senator Mpigi was a friend and a brother. Though I could not be present earlier due to conflicting state engagements, I made it a duty to be here today to honour his memory and speak to his family.”  Reflecting on the inevitability of death, the Bayelsa helmsman stated that while it was the co...

The Bolowei of Egbema Kingdom, Hon. Emmanuel Omoko, popularly known as Alhaji, has extended his profound congratulations and warmest felicitations to Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, the highly revered The Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation, on the auspicious occasion of his birth anniversary celebrated on April 12. In a statement issued to commemorate the day, by his media aide, said Hon. Omoko described Tompolo as an extraordinary leader, a symbol of resilience, and a foremost champion of peace, stability, and development in the Niger Delta region. He noted that Tompolo’s life and legacy remain deeply rooted in sacrifice, courage, and commitment to the collective good of his people. “High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo stands tall as a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength whose contributions to the peace and security of the Niger Delta cannot be overstated. His strategic leadership and steadfast dedication have continued to promote unity, protect critical national ass...

EGBEMAVOICE CELEBRATES NIGER DELTA LIVING LEGEND ON HIS BIRTHDAY By EgbemaVoice, EgbemaVoice proudly celebrates a distinguished son of the Niger Delta, a symbol of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development of his people, Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, fondly known as Tompolo, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary. High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, the revered Ebidouwei of the Ijaw Nation, stands tall as one of the most influential figures in the history of the Niger Delta struggle. His life has been marked by courage, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of justice, equity, and sustainable development for the people of the region. From his role in the agitation for resource control and environmental justice to his transformation into a key stakeholder in peacebuilding and security, Tompolo has continued to redefine leadership in the Niger Delta. His contributions have not only brought stability to the region but ha...

By EgbemaVoice, The Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) has joined the global community in celebrating the birthday of High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, a leader defunct Movement For the Emancipation of Niger Delta, (MEND) and a respected leader in Nigeria. In a statement, the IPF National President, Amb. Comrade Ozobo Austin, and the Secretary-General, Comrade Tare Magbei extended warm felicitations to Tompolo, wishing him a happy birthday and a prosperous new journey ahead. The statement read: "On behalf of the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), we extend our warmest congratulations to High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, on the occasion of his birthday. We celebrate his life, leadership, and contributions to the Ijaw nation and Nigeria. "Tompolo's vision, courage, and resilience have inspired many, and his commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region is commendable. We pray that God grants him good health, wisdom, a...

Oborevwori Felicitates Government Ekpemupolo At 55 By EgbemaVoice, Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated prominent Niger Delta figure, Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo), on the occasion of his 55th birth anniversary on April 12. In a goodwill message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor praised Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo as a respected leader whose contributions have significantly advanced peace, security, and development across the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole. Oborevwori highlighted Tompolo’s impact as Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, noting that his efforts have strengthened the fight against crude oil theft, boosted oil production, and contributed positively to the nation’s revenue profile. He also acknowledged Ekpemupolo’s generous support to the Delta State Security Trust Fund, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to safeguarding lives and...

Egbema Youth Council Opens Political Space Ahead of 2027 Elections, Receives First Declaration in Sapele Meeting By Egbemavoice  The Egbema Youth Council held a well-attended emergency general meeting in Sapele Town to deliberate on strategic participation in the forthcoming 2027 general elections, drawing together youth leaders, stakeholders, and members from across the Egbema Kingdom. The meeting, presided over by the Council President worldwide, Comrade Barrister Sode Amatelemowei, focused on positioning Egbema youths for active political engagement and representation across various elective offices. In his address, the President speaks on unity, inclusiveness, and political awareness, stressing that the Council remains neutral and open to all political parties. He further stressing that, “As of now, the Council has not endorsed any candidate. We are open and ready to work with all political parties that present Egbema sons and daughters for elective positions,” he s...

PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE EDEGBENE FEDERATED COMMUNITY CONDEMNS ALLEGED MILITARY INTIMIDATION, WARNS JOSEPH EDESRIMI BOSON TO DESIST FROM DESTABILIZING ACTIVITIES By Egbemavoice  The Edegbene Federated Community in Seimbiri Kingdom, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, strongly condemns the alleged use of military personnel to intimidate and threaten the peace and security of the community. This condemnation follows a reported incident in which Mr. Joseph Edesrimi Boson allegedly arrived in Edegbene Community accompanied by three military vehicles conveying armed personnel. The presence of armed operatives within the community created panic and apprehension among residents, disrupting the otherwise peaceful atmosphere. The leadership of Edegbene Community views this action as a serious act of provocation, intimidation, and a direct threat to the peace, unity, and stability of the community. Such conduct is unacceptable and inconsistent with the value...

EgbemaVoice Celebrates Niger Delta True Icon on Birthday, By Egbemavoice, The management and crew of EgbemaVoice have joined well-wishers across the Niger Delta and beyond in celebrating a distinguished son of the region, Alabo (Dr.) Nengi James, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary, marked on April 11. Alabo (Dr.) Nengi James, OON, MNIM, MCArb, ANIPR, AICMC, ASPSP, Amb.P, who holds the revered traditional title of Se-Ebi-Dou-Owei of the Niger Delta and Kesiyemieowei of Bayelsa State, is widely recognized for his outstanding contributions to leadership, peace-building, and community development across the region. In a statement, EgbemaVoice described him as a symbol of integrity, wisdom, and selfless service, noting that his commitment to the growth and unity of the Niger Delta continues to inspire both present and future generations. “On this special day, we celebrate not just your life, but your enduring impact on society. Your leadership and dedication...

By Egbemavoice  The Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE-INC) has temporarily suspended the rescheduled elections into the National Executive Council of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), originally scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026. The decision was reached after an extensive meeting on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Yenagoa Secretariat of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, where leaders deliberated on ongoing petitions, court cases, and other disputes plaguing the electoral process. In a press statement signed by HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman, Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, N-CITRE-INC, which serves as the appointing authority for the National Electoral Committee (N-ELECO-INC), directed the electoral body to halt all activities until further notice. “That the elections into the National Executive Council, Ijaw National Congress (NEC-INC) which were rescheduled for Monday...

By EgbemaVoice The ongoing kingship crisis in Seimbiri Kingdom has taken a dangerous turn, as residents of Edegbene Community allege a violent invasion involving armed military personnel. According to reports, the incident was allegedly led by Mr. Joseph Boson Edesemi, with heavily armed operatives storming the community, ransacking, and instilling fear among residents. Many villagers, including women and children, were reportedly forced to flee into nearby bushes to escape the chaos. Disturbing video footage circulating online is said to capture the moment of the invasion, further heightening concerns over the security situation in the area. In a desperate cry for help, the people of Edegbene Community have called on the Inspector general of police IGP Disu Olatunju  and the Commissioner of Police, CP John Yemi  to urgently investigate the alleged illegal harassment, intimidation, and abuse of innocent civilians. The community insists that such actions, if left un...

TINUBU: RESTRUCTURING NIGERIA; THE NIGER DELTA QUESTION REVISITED  "Between historical injustice, elite politics, and the search for a functional federation" By Engr. Yeigagha Henry, JP By all serious reckonings, the agitation for restructuring in the Niger Delta is no longer a peripheral complaint; it is a central test of Nigeria’s cohesion and moral legitimacy. It is a debate shaped not only by theory and policy, but by the voices, often courageous, sometimes tragic, of those who have defined the Niger Delta struggle across generations. THE INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE STRUGGLE  Any meaningful discourse on restructuring must begin with the ideological pioneers of the Niger Delta cause. Foremost among them is Isaac Adaka Boro, whose 1966 declaration of a short-lived Niger Delta Republic was not merely an act of rebellion, but a philosophical statement that resource-bearing communities cannot remain perpetual spectators in their own destiny. Decades later, that ...

By EgbemaVoice The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has lauded prominent Nigerian marine entrepreneur and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Vettal Mega Services Limited, Captain Letthemsay Braboke Inaibagha, for his outstanding contributions to humanity in the Ijaw nation. The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the forum on Wednesday at his residence in Ogulagha town, head quarters of Kingdom, in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State. The delegation, led by IPF's President Amb. Comrade Ozobo Austin alongside other executive members, said Inaibagha was singled out for special recognition due to his consistent impact to the wellbeing of mankind across the Niger Delta. Speaking during the visit, Ozobo described Inaibagha as an exemplary figure whose influence extends beyond philanthropy to mentorship and institutional support. “We appreciate your mentorship and exemplary contributions to humanity and community development in the region. It is import...

Delta Showcases Maritime Potential at Blue Economy Summit, Seeks Investors  By EgbemaVoice The Delta State Government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has intensified efforts to attract investors to its maritime and blue economy sector, highlighting vast untapped opportunities at the Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026 held on Thursday at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.  The summit, themed “Shifting Gears: Heading to a New Frontier in Maritime Economy,” brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and investors to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s marine resources sector.  Speaking on the sidelines, Director-General of the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), Dr. Anthony Elekeokwuri, said the state’s extensive coastline and rich marine endowments position it as a prime destination for maritime investments.  According to him, Delta State boasts about 163 kilometres of coastline, ...