DHQ Probing Bayelsa Governor Diri’s Link With Wanted Gang Leader That Murdered 16 Officers, Soldiers

Syndicated Report

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) is currently probing the link between Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri and wanted leader of the killer gang, which murdered 16 officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, in Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta state, on Thursday, March 14, 2024, Endurance Okodeh, alias Amangben.

The military authorities are also working on an intelligence report that Amangben was being harboured by Douye Diri at Government House, Yenagoa.

Impeccable security sources said the military has established a link between the Bayelsa Governor and the suspected killer of the soldiers.

Amangben, whose father hails from Igbomotoru community, in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa state, is a notorious oil bunkerer.

He was said to be widely recognised as a political ally of Governor Douye Diri.

The military authorities have zeroed down on Amangben as the leader of the gang, which murdered 16 officers and soldiers of the 181 Batallion of the Nigerian Army on peace-keeping mission in Okuama, on Thursday.

Amangben’s mother hailed from Okuama, an Urhobo community in Delta State.
Speculations that he has fled to his paternal community in Bayelsa state, apparently informed Sunday’s raid of Igbomotoru community by troops in search of the wanted kingpin.

It was gathered through intelligence gathering by military chiefs probing the fate of the falling soldiers that Amangben headed the team of political thugs, who supported and delivered Governor Douye Diri in the last gubernatorial election in Bayelsa state.

To this end, the military authorities are working on the lead that Douye Diri could provide the ambience of Government House, Yenagoa, as safe havens for Amangben and members of his gang, to evade arrest and justice.

Impeccable sources within security circles revealed that the military arrived at the conclusion following Sunday’s futile outcome of the raid on Igbomotoru community, a place initially suspected to be harbouring Amangben and his fleeing boys.

One reliable source said, “Since the MIlitary has come to the conclusion that Endurance Okodeh, alias Amangben, led his group to kill the soldiers, the best place to look for him is the Government House.”

“Amangben’s benefactor, Governor
Douye Diri, might have provided the Government House for him to hibernate in order to evade arrest by the troops searching for him.”

“Governor Douye Diri may consider the current travails of Amangben as affording him the best opportunity to help the boy who has been there for him in his political journey. Amangben has backed Douye Diri in all his political carreer.”

“Amangben in particular played pivotal roles in the re-election of Governor Douye Diri in the last gubernatorial election by heading the private security squad, which reigned terrors on the opposition elements, killing and maiming them in desperation to ensure Douye Diri wins at all costs.”

“There is a like likehood that Amangben and members of his gang are being sustained in the Government House, Yenagoa,” the source stated.

Similarly, the military authorities are said to be on the manhunt for the Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Mr. Lucky Okodeh and Chairman of the state’s Waterways Commitee, Mr. Weris Tike, due to their relationship with Amangben.

The council boss is a sibling to Amangben while Tike is an ally of the suspected killer.

The military are working on the permutations that the council boss and Tike were in the best position to help with information that could lead to the arrest of the prime suspect in the murder of the soldiers.

Consequently, the Bayelsa council chairman and Tike have gone underground as the military intensified efforts to bring Amangben to book.

“The military authorities have decided that since the Southern Ijaw Council chairman and Chairman of Bayelsa State Waterways commitee have been running deals and are close allies of Amangben, then they must know his whereabouts and provide valid information that can lead to the arrest of Amangben. This latest development has compelled Lucky Okodeh and Weris Tike, to also take-off,” added the source, which pleaded anonymity.

Killing of Soldiers: Mulade Condemns Act, Calls For Calm, Says Delta Need Peace To Develop

A Delta State-born peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has condemned in its entirety the heinous and barbaric killing of soldiers who were reportedly on a peace mission to restore law and order in Okuama, a Delta community, over dispute with its neighbour, Okoloba.

The renowned peace and environmental rights activist condoled with the Nigerian Army over these needless killing and appealed to the feuding Okuama and Okoloba communities to sheath their sword, while calling on the Military high command and Delta state government to institute an enquiry and bring to book perpetrators of this dastardly act.

Speaking further, he urged the warring groups to embrace peace for the sake of development and growth of Okuama/Okoloba, who, as the same descendants as original root. He further advised and appealed to them not to fall into the hands of war mongers/instigators, whose primary occupation and means of survival relied on communal/ethnic crisis, thereby positioning themselves as negotiators/leaders.

The Ijaw leader, once again, appeals strongly to Okuama and Okoloba communities who are brothers and sisters, with long history of inter-marriages, to sheath their sword and allow peace to reign.

It is worthy of note that Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the executive governor of Delta State, needs peace to attract investors to grow the economy of Delta State, and create employment opportunities for our teeming youths.

Delta Govt Calls For Calm over Okada Riders’ Protest in Capital

Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah, Monday, called for calm over protests by Okada and tricycle riders in the state capital.

Ukah in a statement made available to newsmen in Asaba, after inspecting the scene of destruction in company of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu and Head of Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko condemned the action of the protesters for the wanton destruction and vandalisation of property at the Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association, COMTOA Secretariat.

He said the Capital Territory Development Agency was in touch with the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, the leadership of Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association, COMTOA, and representatives of the Arewa community with a view to resolving issues that led to the Monday’s rampage.

While appealing to residents of the capital territory for patience and cooperation, Ukah noted that Delta was known for communal living and warned that the State Government would deal decisively with anyone found to be disobeying laws of the land.

He therefore called for calm while Government deals with the issues that led to the rampage.

Oborevwori greets Peter Mbah at 52

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Sunday, congratulated his Enugu State counterpart, Dr Peter Mbah, on his 52nd birth anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, commended the governor for excellence in implementing his audacious transformation agenda in Enugu State.

He described the governor as an astute businessman and impactful administrator, and extolled him for his patriotic and unrelenting service to the state and the nation.

He stated that Mbah’s unique approach to governance had lifted the fortunes of Enugu State indigenes through his achievements in health, education and infrastructural renewal.

Governor Oborevwori said that it was heart-warming to note that the oil magnate turned-politician had, by dint of hard work, discipline and creativity, won the hearts and respect of Enugu State people and other Nigerians.

“Since your emergence as Governor of Enugu State, you have continued to ensure good governance, predicated on ‘Building a peaceful, secure highly developed and prosperous state for all’.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I heartily rejoice with you, an outstanding professional, a promise keeper and my brother governor, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, as you attain 52 years.

“On this auspicious occasion, I celebrate with your family, associates and friends and thank Almighty God for your life which has been marked by amazing grace and remarkable accomplishments,” Oborevwori added.

Guwor congratulates Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon on his conferment as Bolouwei of Oporomor Kingdom

Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of States Houses of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has felicitated with Rt Hon (Chief) Funkekeme Solomon on his conferment as the Bolouwei of Operemor Kingdom.

Rt Hon Solomon, a former Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly and presently the Senior Policy Adviser to the Government of Delta State, was Saturday March 16, 2024 conferred with the Chieftaincy title of Bolouwei by His Royal Majesty, Dr John Ekioemi Oweiagbe, Gbesa 1, the Pere of Operemor kingdom at Ojobo town, in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State.

The Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor was among the cream-de-la-cream of the society that witnessed the epoch making event put together to climax the first anniversary of the Royal Father on the throne.

The Speaker in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, congratulated Rt Hon Funkekeme Solomon for yet another milestone in his service to humanity.

Guwor stated that Chief Funkekeme Solomon has proven to be a great leader in all ramifications, including politics, governance and community development, stressing that his choice as the new Bolouwei was a reward for consistent hard work and commitment.

The Speaker however reminded the Bolouwei that his present position in Operemor Kingdom, comes with certain new challenges and urged him to stay focused in his drive for a better society.

Saying that the Pere of Operemor Kingdom and his subjects desire nothing but development, Rt Hon Guwor enjoined Chief Funkekeme Solomon to avail the people his wealth of experience, contacts and connections to attract prosperity to the locality.

The Speaker admonished the people of Operemor Kingdom to be at peace with one another, including their neighbours, as development can only thrive in atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

He, on behalf of his constituents of Warri South West and the Delta State House of Assembly, rejoiced with the new Bolouwei and prayed for God to grant him the wherewithal to succeed in his service to Operemor Kingdom, the state and the society at large.

Oborevwori felicitates former Okpe Council Boss, Asini at 86

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has felicitated elder statesman and former Chairman Transition Committee, Okpe Local Government Council, Chief Joseph Asini as he clocks 86 years on Friday.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, Oborevwori lauded the renowned Okpe leader for his contributions to the development and growth of Delta State.

He recalled that Asini has continued to play significant roles in the development of the state as a pioneer Deputy State Chairman and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party in Okpe Local Government Area.

The governor specifically lauded Chief Asini for his steadfastness in providing leadership for the Okpe people and committing to the success of his administration, adding that he would continue to treasure his counseling at all times.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I congratulate our father and leader of inestimable value, Okakuro Joseph Asini, the Oghweibor of Okpe Kingdom on the occasion of his 86th birth anniversary.

“It is my pleasure to join your family, friends and well-wishers in thanking Almighty God for His continued guidance, protection and provision for you in the past 86 years.

“It is my prayer that divine light would continue to shine on you as you soldier on in your quest to provide amazing service to God and humanity,” Oborevwori stated.

DTHA Speaker, Guwor congratulates Dr. Otuaro on his appointment as PAP Administrator by President Tinubu

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has congratulated Chief Dennis Otuaro PhD, on his appointment as the new Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.

Rt Hon Guwor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, described the appointment as well deserved and a very positive development in the Niger Delta region.

The Speaker stated that Chief Dennis Otuaro, a Principal Consultant and Chief Executive Officer of Owelle Global Resources and other firms, had been in the forefront of true emancipation of the people of the Niger Delta, saying that he is in a familiar terrain.

Stressing that the appointment is a square peg in a square hole, Guwor noted that the pedigree of Chief Dennis Otuaro in the struggle, particularly in the area of meaningful engagement of the youths must have been the major reason he found favour from the President.

The Speaker thanked President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for not just appointing his constituent as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, but for the choice of a Niger Deltan who is very grounded and so much interested in the progress and development of the region.

“I was so excited to read a statement yesterday by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, announcing the appointment of my constituent, brother and friend, Chief Dennis Otuaro as the new Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP.

“The President anticipates that Chief Otuaro will bring his requisite experience and know-how to the office and revamp the Amnesty Programme and advance the realization of its founding purpose and vision.

“Having been very close to Dennis Otuaro, I am so confident that he will not disappoint the President. I know he will deliver. I wish him the best as he faces the task before him”, Rt Hon Guwor stated.

The Speaker on behalf of his family, the people of Warri South West Constituency and the Delta State Legislature, congratulated Chief Dennis Otuaro and assured him of every support to succeed as the Amnesty Boss.

Rt Hon Guwor also called for the support of every critical stakeholder as the new Administrator requires all the needed cooperation of the people to succeed in the onerous assignment.

Guwor stresses need for peaceful coexistence among ethnic nationalities in Delta for sustainable development

* As he Played host to Ijaw National Congress, IPF

The Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor has stressed the need for peaceful coexistence among all ethnic nationalities in the state in order to experience sustainable development across all parts of the State.

The speaker gave the admonition in his office at the State Assembly’s Complex in Asaba, when he played host to the Executives of the Western Zone of Ijaw National Congress, INC and the Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF.

He assured that the State government is working assiduously towards ensuring lasting solution to the lingering Aladja- Ogbe-ijoh communal crisis, adding that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is on top of the matter.

The Speaker restated the commitment of the Assembly towards overall development of the State, saying that no ethnic group would be marginalized in relation to efficient and effective legislation.

Flanked by Honourables Oboro Preyor, Bomadi, Emmanuel Sinebe, Patani and Pereotu Oloye, Burutu 2, Guwor particularly noted that all the Ijaw speaking Legislators in the State Assembly are united towards a common goal.

He stated that they will continue to play their part in partnership with the Executive in attracting more developmental projects to the areas, adding that efforts are in top gear to ensure the completion of the Ayakoromo bridge as it will in no small way be of utmost benefit to the people.

The Speaker enjoined ethnic groups in the State to intensify their support, prayers and encouragement for the state government, stressing that the MORE agenda of Oborevwori’s administration is all encompassing.

Chairman, Western Zone of Ijaw National Congress, INC, Chief Robinson Ogunkoru, congratulated Rt Hon Guwor on his emergence as Speaker of the 8th Assembly, even as he highlighted issues that required attention across communities in Ijaw nation.

Chief Ogunkoru solicited the support of the Speaker and others in solving some of the challenges, and advocated for more dividends of democracy for Ijaw people as well as to help seek a lasting solution to the age long Aladja-Ogbe-Ijoh crisis.

In another development, the Speaker while playing host to members of Ijaw Publishers Forum, tasked journalists on the need for balanced and objective reportage.

He encouraged the forum to maintain the ethics of the journalism profession and promote the values of the Ijaw people.

Guwor advised that they should not be politically motivated or biased in their reportage, adding “due diligence is required in the discharge of your duties as Journalists”, even as he promised that his doors are open for partnership.

Leader of the delegation, Comrade Austine Ozobo, explained the aims and objectives of the forum and solicited support from the the Speaker and other Lawmakers representing Ijaw ethnic nationality in the Hallowed chamber.

The visit was climaxed with presentation of gifts.