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Defending Itsekiri Heritage: A Call for Justice in Warri’s Electoral Delineation

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Defending Itsekiri Heritage: A Call for Justice in Warri’s Electoral Delineation

Introduction

The Itsekiri people, indigenous to the Warri region of Delta State, Nigeria, have a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. Their ancestral lands, encompassing Warri North, Warri South and Warri South-West Local Government Areas (LGAs), have been the epicenter of their socio-political and economic activities. However, recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concerning ward delineation in these areas have raised significant concerns about the marginalization of the Itsekiri people and the potential erosion of their historical rights.

Historical Context of Itsekiri Land Ownership

The Kingdom of Warri, established in 1480, stands as a testament to the longstanding presence and sovereignty of the Itsekiri people in the region. Historical records and maps, including the 1922 colonial map of Nigeria, clearly depict the Itsekiri territory as distinct and well-defined, nestled between the Ijaw and Urhobo ethnic groups. This demarcation underscores the recognition of Itsekiri lands during colonial times, affirming their territorial claims.

Furthermore, historical accounts, such as those by European travelers in the 19th century, highlight the geographical boundaries of the Itsekiri. For instance, a traveler in 1864 noted, “At Warri, we were within one day’s row of the Sobo people,” indicating that the Urhobo (referred to as Sobo) were not originally situated within Warri but were neighbors to the Itsekiri.

INEC’s Controversial Ward Delineation

In April 2025, INEC released a new ward delineation report for the Warri Federal Constituency, which includes Warri North, Warri South and Warri South-West LGAs. The report proposed a reduction of wards in Itsekiri-dominated areas while increasing those in Ijaw and Urhobo regions. Specifically, the Itsekiri wards in Warri North were reduced from six to four, whereas the Ijaw wards increased from four to ten.

This reconfiguration has been met with strong opposition from the Itsekiri community, who view it as a deliberate attempt to marginalize them politically. The Itsekiri National Development Initiative (INDI) has petitioned INEC, labeling the delineation as biased and lacking transparency. They argue that such actions not only undermine their political representation but also threaten their cultural and historical identity.

Implications of the Delineation

The reduction of Itsekiri wards has far-reaching implications:

Political Marginalization: Fewer wards translate to reduced political representation, limiting the Itsekiri’s influence in local governance and decision-making processes.

Cultural Erosion: Diminished political presence can lead to the neglect of Itsekiri cultural heritage, traditions and language in policy formulations and implementations.

Economic Disadvantage: Political underrepresentation may result in fewer developmental projects and resource allocations to Itsekiri communities, exacerbating economic disparities.

Calls for Justice and Equity

The Itsekiri community’s outcry is not merely about political representation but about preserving their identity and rights. They demand that INEC revisits the delineation exercise, ensuring that it reflects the true demographic and historical realities of the region. As one community leader aptly stated, “We cannot allow our ancestral lands and rights to be eroded under the guise of administrative adjustments.”

Final Word: A Stand for Justice and Indigenous Rights

The struggle of the Itsekiri people is not a cry for favoritism but a demand for justice rooted in historical fact, equity, and democratic fairness. No nation thrives when its founding ethnic nationalities are silenced or politically diminished. The deliberate attempt to redraw boundaries at the expense of the Itsekiri, custodians of the original Warri territory is a betrayal not only of their people but of Nigeria’s constitutional promise of fairness to all.

INEC must retrace its steps and correct this injustice before it festers into deeper ethnic tensions. As Thomas Jefferson warned, “When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty.” The Itsekiri are not begging for mercy; they are asserting their constitutional and ancestral rights.

Let the three Warris – Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South-West be preserved as Itsekiri territory, as history, maps and facts clearly affirm. Let not political manipulation replace justice. Let Nigeria not trample on the dignity of a people who built one of West Africa’s oldest and most organized kingdoms.

Written and Compiled by George Omagbemi Sylvester

For further insights into the Itsekiri community’s stance and protests regarding the INEC’s ward delineation, you may find the following video informative: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbjD_-1YnG0

 

Defending Itsekiri Heritage: A Call for Justice in Warri's Electoral Delineation

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Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*

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Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*

*Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*

Teachers in Oyo State have been urged to be steadfast in prayers for the State Wing Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Oyo State.

The Chairman, NUT, Oyo State wing, Comrade Raji Oladimeji made the call on Thursday during a Solemn Assembly held at the Union’s headquarters in Ibadan.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) holds an annual Solemn Assembly in Ibadan to commit the union’s activities, teachers’ welfare, and Oyo State into God’s hands through prayers led by Christian and Muslim clerics.

Comrade Oladimeji said the programme was designed to draw the leadership of the Union and the entire members closer to God, stressing that nothing was impossible with God.

Comrade Oladimeji said: “We pray to God to lead us, and to teach us what we need to know and what we need to do. We are here today to surrender our petitions to the Lord God. We believe He will hear us and our demands will come to pass”.

The NUT Chairman revealed that a lot was being done to improve the welfare of Oyo teachers, expressing confidence that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in improving on the welfare of teachers in the state.

He applauded relevant government agencies, such as Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Oyo State Post-Primary Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, and the Ministry of Education for prioritising the welfare of teachers.

Oladimeji equally appreciated the National President, NUT, Com. Audu Titus Amba for his relentless advocacy for improved teacher welfare, and his efforts in ensuring better working conditions across the country.

He therefore charged the teachers to be role models to their pupils and students.

Oladimeji also emphasized the need for teachers to seek the face of God in their lives to be able to discharge their duties aright.

In their separate sermons, Pastor (Mrs) Margaret ‘Dayo Akinrinde, from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Oyo Province 2, Ibadan and Comrade Alh. Haroon Lawal, a retired Permanent Secretary likened teachers to a Shephard who dedicated much of His time to caring for His flock, further describing the teachers as the “shepherds of our generation”.

Consequently, the Union also donated welfare materials to teachers in the 33 local government areas of the State.

The items which include customized clothing materials and other items were distributed to NUT leaders for onward distribution to the teachers.

While distributing the items, the Chairman, Com. Raji Oladimeji informed members that the materials were given to appreciate the efforts that teachers have been putting into the education of students.

The event, which was attended by relevant authorities, and teachers from across the state, featured Quran and Bible readings, prayer session for the leadership of the NUT at all levels, for teachers across the country, for Union staff and for the entire workforce of Nigeria, amongst other prayer points.

Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*

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PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AND GENERAL CHRISTOPHER MUSA: A NEW ERA OF SECURITY AND PROGRESS

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PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AND GENERAL CHRISTOPHER MUSA: A NEW ERA OF SECURITY AND PROGRESS

By Prince Sunday Joshua Bako 

 

President Bola Tinubu has made significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges since taking office, with notable important appointments and initiatives aimed at stabilizing the nation. One of his key important appointments is General Christopher Musa as the Minister of Defence, who has brought a wealth of experience and strategic thinking to the role.

 

General Musa, a seasoned military leader, hit the ground running, launching a series of bold operations to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency and other security threats. His approach has been characterized by speed, agility, and a deep understanding of the complexities of modern warfare.

 

In his first few months in office, General Musa has achieved significant milestones, including the liberation of over 1,500 hostages and the reclamation of strategic territories in Borra, as well as the introduction of mobile strike teams equipped with night-vision capabilities and armored vehicles.

 

The General established a dedicated Cyber Warfare Command to fortify Nigeria’s defenses against emerging threats, and introduced comprehensive health insurance for soldiers, covering combat-related injuries. Additionally, he has increased allowances for frontline troops by 20% in 2024, a move aimed at boosting morale and improving the welfare of security personnel.

 

President Tinubu has made historic and significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges, implementing policies aimed at boosting growth and stability. His administration has launched initiatives to address banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, and has invested in infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and economic development.

 

The headlines speak for themselves what it was during the last tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure and the giant strides we have made now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister.

 

1. Boko Haram Insurgency: 55 people killed in two raids near Maiduguri (2015)

2. Takum Taraba State Attack: 21 people killed (2015)

3. Agatu Massacre: Thousands displaced in Benue State (February 29, 2016)

4. Akure Cult Attack: 103 people killed (2017)

5. Ogbagi Akoko Bank Robbery: 20 people killed (2017)

6. Boko Haram Attack on Military Base: 66 personnel killed in Geidam (2018)

7. Kpanche Attack: 40 people killed in Kogi State (2018)

8. Izi Communal Clash: 85 people killed in Ebonyi State (April 2019)

9. Anguwan Aku Attack: 78 people killed in Kaduna State (April 2019)

10. Kankara Attack: 96 people killed in Katsina State (April 2019)

11. Safana, Dutsinma and Danmusa Attack: 67 people killed in Katsina State (2020)

12. Baga Convoy Attack: 30 people killed (2020)

13. Effium Attack: 14 people killed in Ebonyi State (2021)

14. Kurebe Ward Attack: 77 people killed in Niger State (February 2021)

15. Ebenebe Burial Attack: 20 people killed in Anambra State (February 26, 2022)

16. Owo Church Attack: 40 worshipers killed in Ondo State (June 5, 2022)

17. Aba Military Patrol Attack: unspecified number of Soldiers killed in Abia State (2022)

18. Niger State Terrorist Attack: Over 380 people killed (2022)

19. Ogun State Cult Violence: 8 people killed (2022)

20. Katsina Bandit Attack: 87 bandits killed (2022)

21. Northeast Nigeria Islamist Militant Attack: 340 people killed (2022)

22. Boko Haram-Related Violence: Over 5,000 fatalities (2016)

23. Herder-Farmer Clashes: 794 died in violence in middle belt region

24. Kidnapping: Growing industry flourished with high-profile cases

25. Niger Delta Militancy: Attacks on oil installations

26. Pro-Biafra Movement: Tensions and violence in southeast region

27. Islamist Insurgency: Thousands killed and displaced throughout northern Nigeria

28. Banditry: Increased attacks in northern Nigeria

29. Armed Robbery: historic threat to citizens

30. Cult Violence: Frequent attacks and killings during 8 years.

31. Terrorist Threats: US warns citizens in Nigeria to flee (2022)

32. Security Personnel Attacks: 238 police officers killed (2022)

33. Impeachment Attempts: Lawmakers try to remove Buhari (July 2022)

34. Boko Haram Amnesty Program: Controversy over government’s handling

35. Deradicalization Programs: Initiatives to reintegrate former militants who later rejoin insurgency

36. Operation Safe Corridor: Program to rehabilitate Boko Haram members end in controversy

37. National Counter Terrorism Strategy: Updated in 2016 failed

38. Military Campaigns: Operations against Boko Haram and other groups collapsed

39. International Cooperation: Support from US, UK, and other countries

40. Humanitarian Crisis: Displacement and economic impact

41. Economic Consequences: $100 billion disappeared or lost due to insecurity

42. Agricultural Impact: Farming disrupted in northeast and North West region

43. IDP Crisis: Over 4 million displaced

44. Security Budget: Increased spending with mixed results

45. Corruption Allegations: Questions over security fund management

46. Leadership Criticism: Analysts question Buhari’s approach

47. Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Ongoing conflicts

48. Porous Borders: Security challenges due to border control issues

49. Armed Groups: Rise of non-state actors

50. Civilian Casualties: High numbers reported throughout Buhari’s tenure

 

– Prince Sunday Joshua Bako Danborno is an All Progressive Congress Stalwart and Real Estate Merchant

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King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.

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King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.

King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.

 

His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson, President Of International Council of Archbishops And Bishops for Charismatic And Pentecostal Churches. A citizen of United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA), King Of Knossos in Greece.

While he was installed as King of Knossos promised sustained development and a lasting legacy for the island kingdom, assuring citizens that his reign will bring “a lot of things” for the benefit of the people.
Pledges Development and Lasting legacy.

Adding that his administration would focus on building the island to his taste, driving growth and progress, stressed that his reign would harness the full potential of the Knossos Kingdom, promising to introduce new infrastructure, attract investment, and strengthen the kingdom’s socio-economic standing. “We stand to gain a lot of things because the king is going to build that island to his taste, bringing development, bringing a lot of things,” he said.

The monarch expressed confidence that his leadership would open opportunities for growth while upholding the traditions of the kingdom.

A visionary leader, King Benny Terry Danson brings decades of transformative leadership to the role. As King of Knossos, Greece, he spearheaded initiatives that:
– *Revolutionized infrastructure*, driving economic growth,
– *Attracted global investment*, boosting the kingdom’s profile,
– *Strengthened socio-economic standing*, uplifting citizens.

_“We stand to gain a lot of things because the king is going to build that island to his taste,”_ he declared, emphasizing growth with tradition. His leadership in Knossos serves as a model for the UKA’s aspirations.

As President of the International Council of Archbishops and Bishops for Charismatic and Pentecostal Churches, King Danson wields global spiritual influence, aligning faith with progress. He has:
– *Fostered interfaith dialogue*, promoting unity,
– *Championed humanitarian causes*, aiding vulnerable communities,
– *Guided spiritual growth*, inspiring millions worldwide.

 

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In a landmark royal decree, the Office of the Minister of Information & Culture of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) has announced the appointment of *His Imperial Royal Eminence, King Sir Benny Terry Danson*, as the _Acting Admin King_ of the UKA Throne. The nomination was issued through an official directive from the UKA Throne and is intended to pave the way for King Sir Benny Terry Danson’s eventual ascension to the title of *Official Emperor Admin* of the Throne, subject to the completion of necessary formal and constitutional processes.

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The UKA Throne emphasized that the appointment underscores its unwavering commitment to *competence, dedication, and integrity* as the guiding principles for all administrative functions within the government structure. Officials stated that the decision is a strategic move to reinforce national leadership and accelerate the kingdom’s vision of becoming a more efficient, progressive, and unified nation.

The new Acting Admin King will oversee initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable growth, improving public service delivery, and promoting collective national development among citizens and followers of the UKA. The government expressed deep appreciation for the continuous love, loyalty, and support shown by the populace, noting that public engagement is essential for the kingdom’s shared prosperity and advancement.

Further details regarding the formalization of the appointment, including ceremonial schedules and administrative timelines, will be released to the public in due course through official communication channels.

*Report Highlights:*
– *Nominee:* King Sir Benny Terry Danson, Acting Admin King.
– *Objective:* Transition toward becoming Official Emperor Admin of the UKA Throne.
– *Focus:* Strengthening governance through competence, dedication, and integrity.
– *Impact:* Expected to drive national efficiency, progress, and unity.
– *Next Steps:* Official ceremonies and constitutional procedures to follow.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) is a sovereign entity dedicated to fostering global unity, humanitarian progress, and financial innovation. It operates under a regal framework that blends imperial tradition with futuristic economic strategies, including asset-backed digital currencies and sustainable development programs.

Emperor Nobiliis Solomon Winning is a transformative leader of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, driving innovative projects in finance, humanitarian efforts, and global development. His reign focuses on merging traditional monarchical values with modern technological advancements, exemplified by initiatives like the ATC digital currency.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis looks forward to achieving new milestones in governance and global impact under the stewardship of Emperor Solomon Winning to His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson.

His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson has advised politicians contesting in the upcoming elections to maintain peace and ensure stability in the country.

In a statement, Archbishop Danson also appealed to the President of Nigeria to consider the plagi situation of citizens and ease the burden of fuel price hikes, which have led to soaring transportation costs and inflation ¹ ² ³.

“With the current fuel price hikes, Nigerians are facing unprecedented economic hardship. It’s imperative that the government takes immediate action to cushion the impact on citizens,” Archbishop Danson said.

The Archbishop’s call comes as petrol prices hit around ₦1,300 per litre, with diesel prices exceeding ₦1,500 per litre, sparking concerns of inflationary pressures and economic instability.

 

King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.

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