Opinion

Why is the Ijaw Nation forgetting its musical icon, late Chief Echo Toikumoh?

By Jacob Brakere Abai Seventeen years have passed since the Nigerian highlife music scene lost one of its most influential figures, Field Marshal Echo Toikumoh. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of contemporary Ijaw discourse, his name remains conspicuously absent. This silence begs the question: Why is the Ijaw Nation forgetting its musical icon? Echo

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Editorial

Time for Ondo State Government to Immortalize Nigerian Highlife Music Icon, Chief Echo Toikumoh

By GbaramatuVoice Editorial Board At the heart of Ondo State lies the bustling town of Arogbo, an Ijaw kingdom nestled within the lush landscapes of the Niger Delta. It is here, amidst the swaying palms and winding creeks, that one of Nigeria’s most beloved highlife music icons, Field Marshal Chief Echo Toikumoh, first breathed life

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News

All roads lead to Arogbo as Ijaws prepare to honor late Nigerian highlife music icon, Echo Toikumoh

On February 18, 2007, the Ijaw nation lost one of its most beloved highlife musicians, Chief Echo Toikumoh. Now, 17 years later, on Sunday, February 18, 2024, the Ijaws will gather in Arogbo town, Ondo State, to celebrate his enduring legacy with an event dubbed “Echobration.” Chief Echo Toikumoh’s influence extended far beyond the shores

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Editorial

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Must Act Now to Protect Lives in Ogwashi-Uku

By GbaramatuVoice Editorial Board Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, has emerged as a hotspot for criminal activities, with mass robberies and gunfire plaguing the community. The situation has reached a critical point where the lives of residents, especially the students of Delta State Polytechnic, are in grave danger. Despite these alarming developments, the silence from the state

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Editorial

Championing Change – Endurance Nwachukwu’s Tireless Advocacy for Girls’ Rights in the Niger Delta

By GbaramatuVoice Editorial Board Ambassador (Mrs.) Nwachukwu Bekenawei Endurance stands as a beacon of hope for girls across the Niger Delta, tirelessly advocating for their rights and empowerment. Armed with a formidable academic arsenal—a Master’s degree in Administration and Planning coupled with a Bachelor’s degree in Educational Management/Political Science—she embodies both scholarly acumen and fervent

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National News

Petroleum Minister Lokpobiri Hosts Amnesty Boss, Vows Better Collaboration to Combat Crude Oil Theft in Niger Delta

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri recently hosted Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (Retd), the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), where both leaders held discussions on ongoing efforts to combat oil facility vandalization and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. During the meeting, Senator Lokpobiri commended

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News Oil & Gas

NUPRC Registers 103 Host Communities for Petroleum Industry Act’s Development Trust

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has registered 103 communities to benefit from the three per cent Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) established by the Petroleum Industry Act. Gbanga Komolafe, the Chief Executive of NUPRC, highlighted that the HCDT has commenced operations, which have already begun to restore investor confidence in the industry. He

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News

EXCLUSIVE: Tompolo Spotted at Oweiseimor Binipere Festival in Gbaramatu Kingdom on Monday

High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, the high priest of Egbesu and grand master of the Ijaw spiritual movement, was spotted on Monday, February 12th, at the Oweiseimor Binipere Festival in Sarabobouwei community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.

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Lifestyle

10 Strategies to Strengthen Your Relationship Before Valentine’s Day

By Vanessa Prebor Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while it’s often associated with romance and love, it can also be a stressful time for relationships. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for years, here are ten strategies to help you avoid a breakup before Valentine’s Day: By following

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News

[PHOTOS] A DAY OF DISTINCTION: Ex-Delta Commissioner Barry Gbe Receives High Honor From Tuomo Kingdom

In a historic ceremony held on Saturday, February 10, at Esuku Primary School Field, Tuomo Town in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Dr. Barry Pere Gbe, was honored with the title “Ebekonbolomu-owei,” which translates to “Someone that brings development and progress to a kingdom,” by the Ebenanaowei of Tuomo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty,

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National News

PHOTOS: Reps Meet Tompolo in Oporoza, Inspect Vessels Arrested by Tantita Security

The House of Representatives has affirmed its support for Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), the military, and other security agencies in combating crude oil theft and sabotage. During an on-the-spot inspection of vessels apprehended by Tantita in collaboration with other security outfits by members of associated Committees on oil and gas at Oporoza, headquarters

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National News

House Chairman Ereyitomi Leads Crusade Against Oil Thieves, Backs Tantita Security Services

Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Training Funds), has called for an extension of the contract and scope of operations for Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. (TSSNL) in the wake of recent successes in combating oil theft. In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Ereyitomi

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News

Bobougbene Community Appoints Asiayei as Chairman of Development Committee

Ancient Bobougbene Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State has appointed Mr. Asiayei Enaibo, a Warri-based journalist and Managing Editor of Gbaramatu Voice, as the chairman of the newly created Bobougbene Development Committee. The announcement was made during the community’s general meeting held at the community playground on February 1, 2024. The meeting,

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News

Bibopere Zion Church Celebrates Apostle Ekpemupolo’s Birthday

Bibopere Zion Church Ministry in Okerenkoko town has celebrated the birthday of their esteemed son, Apostle (Hon.) George Ekpemupolo. Led by the Minister in Charge, Snr. Boan. (Amb.) P.E. German, and joined by all members of the ministry, heartfelt celebrations were extended to Ekpemupolo on this special occasion. In a show of gratitude and admiration,

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News

Benikrukru Community Celebrates Matthew Tonlagha’s Birthday with Heartfelt Felicitations

Oil-rich Benikrukru Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom came together to extend warm birthday wishes to their illustrious son and leader, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, Executive Director, Fenog Nigeria Limited. The Executive Council members, Elders, Women, and Youth of the community joined hands to celebrate the significant milestone in his life. Mr. Tonlagha, known for his influential presence

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Opinion

The Decline of Traditional Values: The Erosion of “Koide” in Ijaw Communities

By Jacob Brakere Abai The age-old tradition of “Koide or Koido,” symbolizing reverence and respect for elders in Ijaw culture, is facing a troubling decline in contemporary society. Once a cornerstone of Ijaw identity, this customary greeting is gradually disappearing from daily interactions, signaling a shift away from traditional values. The practice of “Koide” holds

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News

Tantita’s Tactical Takedown: How MT Harbor Spirit Fell in Bayelsa’s Illegal Bunkering Crackdown

Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in collaboration with Nigerian law enforcement agencies, recently intercepted the Mordovia vessel, MT Harbor Spirit, bearing IMO No. 8226272, in Bayelsa State. The vessel, along with 12 Nigerian crew members, was apprehended for engaging in illegal crude oil bunkering activities within the state. According to Captain Warriedi Enisuoh, the Executive

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Church

Honoring late Rev. Mrs. Adetola Emman-Imeleye: Her Parting Words at GbaramatuVoice Corporate Thanksgiving [Full Text]

The last sermon by Late Rev. Mrs. Adetola Emman-Imeleye during the GbaramatuVoice Corporate Thanksgiving Service on January 4, before her passing on January 7. I am truly grateful to stand before you today, humbled by the opportunity to minister alongside such esteemed men of God. I do not take this privilege for granted, and I

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Sponsored

Forever in Our Hearts: GbaramatuVoice Mourns the Passing of Rev. Mrs. Adetola Emman-Imeleye

Forever in Our Hearts: GbaramatuVoice Mourns the Passing of Rev. Mrs. Adetola Emman-Imeleye Dear Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Imeleye, We extend our deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of your beloved wife, Rev. Mrs. Adetola Emman-Imeleye. Her sudden departure has left us all in shock and disbelief. Just on January 4th, she

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News

BREAKING: Tantita Security intercepts another massive vessel for oil theft

Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, has intercepted another vessel for crude oil theft in Bayelsa State. The vessel MT Harbour Spirit, with IMO No. 8226272, is anchored at the Tantita facility in Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. The operation was conducted in collaboration with security personnel. Further

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Special Report

Guardian of the Nation’s Riches: Kestin Pondi and Tantita’s Enduring Legacy

In the realm of leadership, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Ebimobowei Pondi stands as a prominent thread, weaving together the realms of corporate distinction and community upliftment. As we honor the birthday of this exceptional individual, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, we delve into the profound impact he has made across sectors. Pondi:

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Special Report

Battle for Redemption: Alapala and Asupa Brace for Decisive Rerun Clash in Burutu

Burutu Constituency 1 in Delta State is currently the epicenter of heightened political anticipation as the countdown to a pivotal rerun election intensifies. The annulment of Alapala Anthony Ebitonmo’s victory has thrust the constituency into the spotlight, setting the stage for a dramatic electoral showdown that has captured the attention of political observers and residents

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News

King Pereama, Barrister Smooth, Alfred Izon-ebi, and others to deliver unforgettable performances at Ijaw Fiesta 2024

In a thrilling revelation, GbaramatuVoice International, the organizers of the Ijaw Cultural Fiesta 2024 have unveiled an impressive lineup of performers set to mesmerize audiences with their exceptional talents. Headlining this cultural extravaganza are the renowned King Pereama Freetown, the soulful Chief Barrister Soja Smooth, and the prolific Dr. Alfred Izon-ebi, promising an unforgettable experience.

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Food Gallery

What to Expect at the Ijaw Cultural Fiesta 2024 Food Fair

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ijaw cuisine at the upcoming Cultural Fiesta Food Fair on Tuesday, January 30, at Ishaka Hotel Open Field, Along Refinery Road, Effurun, Delta State. Here’s a sneak peek into the tantalizing delights awaiting you: A pottage of chopped unripe plantain with fish, seafood,

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National News

NUJ to honor Tompolo for anti-crude oil theft efforts in Abuja

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is set to present a national merit award to High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in recognition of his significant contributions to maintaining peace in the Niger Delta and successfully combating crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. NUJ’s National President, Chief Chris Isiguzo, announced this during a

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Education

Bayelsa Government to Include Chinese Language in School Curriculum for Holistic Education

The Bayelsa State Government has said it is working on plans to make the teaching and learning of the Ijaw, French and Chinese languages as well as science and mathematics a priority in public schools in the state. It stated that the essence of emphasising the teaching of the three languages, and the core science

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News

Clark Backs IYC’s Move to Halt Operations in Niger Delta Over Sale of Shell’s Onshore Assets

Chief Edwin Clark, convener of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), on Thursday in Abuja expressed his support for the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) as they consider shutting down Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria Limited’s operations in the Niger Delta due to the proposed sale of onshore assets. Shell had said it agreed to sell its

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WORLD NEWS

WHO Issues Urgent Call for Global Pandemic Treaty as ‘Disease X,’ 20 Times Deadlier than COVID-19, Looms

To make sure that the world is prepared for the next pandemic, Disease X, which could be 20 times deadlier than COVID-19, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for a world pandemic treaty. Director General of WHO, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, last week, called on countries to

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News

Supreme Court Dismisses APC’s Tonye Cole’s Appeal, Affirms Fubara as Rivers Governor

The Supreme Court, on Thursday, dismissed an appeal by the All Progressives Congress candidate in the Rivers State governorship election, Tonye Cole. Cole asked the apex court to sack Siminalayi Fubara as governor of the state. He alleged that the election was marred by irregularities and that Fubara did not validly resign his previous position

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National

INEC Assures Neutrality for Delta House of Assembly Re-run Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed its commitment to impartiality in the forthcoming Delta House of Assembly Feb. 3 re-run election. Rev. Monday Udoh-Tom, the state INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), conveyed this assurance during a meeting with state chairmen of political parties in Asaba on Wednesday. ”INEC is not a political party;

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News Oil & Gas

Chevron Nigeria Secures $1.4 Billion Investment for Drilling Projects Around Escravos

Chevron Nigeria Ltd (CNL) has successfully secured $1.4 billion in financing for its NNPCL/CNL JV infill drilling program, spanning 2022 to 2026. This initiative encompasses drilling 37 wells in the shallow offshore and onshore Escravos region, coupled with the construction of associated facilities. During a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in

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National News

IYC Warns Consortiums as Shell’s Onshore Assets Sale Sparks Tension in Niger Delta

Warri, Delta State, January 23, 2024 — The Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), representing Ijaw youths globally, has raised alarm over potential hostilities in the Niger Delta if the sale of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) onshore assets deviates from the Local Content Act. During a world press statement on Tuesday in Warri, Delta State, Binebai

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Special Report

Taiye Duke Tuoyo’s Leadership in Warri South West: A Legacy of Neglect and Missed Opportunities

By GbaramatuVoice Editorial Board The leadership tenure of Hon. Taiye Duke Tuoyo as the Chairman of Warri South West Local Government Area in Delta State has been marked by a profound lack of impact, raising serious concerns about his selection process by the then governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. Initially elected in 2018 and subsequently re-elected

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Breaking News

BREAKING: Supreme Court Dismisses Ovie Omo-Agege’s Appeal, Affirms Oborevwori as Delta Governor

The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed Ovie Omo-Agege’s appeal challenging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s election in Delta State. The apex court holds that the appellant is unable to prove his case of over-voting and noncompliance with the electoral laws. The justices are giving summary judgment for want of time, as there are other states’ appeals to

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National News

How NNPCL successfully achieved the destruction of 10,166 illegal refineries, connections in three years

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced on Wednesday that a total of 10,166 illegal refineries and crude oil connections have been destroyed in Nigeria since 2021. Mele Kyari, NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, shared this information during a lecture at the 2024 Faculty Lecture titled, “Energy Security, Sustainability and Profitability in Nigeria: Advances,

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