News
INC President Calls for Environmental Justice, Greater Support for Indigenous Media
By Rukevwe Odeh
The National President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Chief Barrister Macdonald Igbadiwei, has renewed calls for urgent action to tackle environmental challenges in the Niger Delta while advocating stronger support for indigenous media organizations and sustainable economic development for the Ijaw people.
Igbadiwei made the appeal during the fifth anniversary celebration of Congress Newspaper held at TM Palace Hotel in Effurun, Delta State, where he attended as the Special Guest of Honour.
Speaking at the event, the INC leader expressed concern over the continued environmental degradation affecting oil-producing communities despite decades of crude oil exploration. He described the persistent gas flaring and pollution in the region as unacceptable, stressing that residents continue to face serious health and environmental risks.
He specifically highlighted the situation in Diebiri Clan, Delta State, where many people still live close to oil facilities exposed to constant gas flaring. According to him, both the government and international oil companies should either improve living conditions in the affected communities or relocate residents to safer locations.
Igbadiwei also drew attention to environmental threats confronting Bille Community in Rivers State, warning that the coastal settlement remains vulnerable to ecological damage caused by oil-related activities.
Describing the Niger Delta as an environmentally sensitive region, he urged authorities and industry operators to adopt responsible practices that protect both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of host communities.
Beyond environmental issues, the INC president lamented what he described as inadequate representation of Ijaw affairs in the mainstream media. He encouraged investors and business leaders from the region to support indigenous media platforms, particularly those established by Ijaw professionals, to ensure that the people’s perspectives and developmental concerns receive wider coverage.
On economic growth, Igbadiwei challenged Ijaw entrepreneurs to look beyond small-scale trading and invest in large industries such as steel, cement, electronics and building materials. He noted that such investments would create jobs, stimulate economic growth and strengthen the region’s financial future.
He concluded by urging the Ijaw people to remain united in their pursuit of environmental justice, economic prosperity and sustainable development, expressing confidence that collective commitment and strategic investments would help overcome the region’s longstanding socio-economic challenges.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to notable Niger Delta personalities, including Igbadiwei, in recognition of their contributions to the development of the region.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
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