Innocent Ojefia Blog

In the past two weeks, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, embarked on an extensive tour across the eight local government areas of Delta Central Senatorial District. This strategic outreach provided a platform to reconnect with party leaders, members, and the broader community after the elections, fostering unity and celebrating the party’s achievements. Delta Central has long been a stronghold of the APC, and Omo-Agege emphasized the party’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its base. Throughout the tour, he highlighted the need to consolidate on past successes and build a more robust and united APC in Delta Central and beyond. The meetings featured interactive sessions where party members and leaders shared insights and engaged in meaningful discussions about the future of the party. The engagements also offered an opportunity to express gratitude to ...

The internal dynamics of the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) present a perplexing scenario that raises important questions about leadership and the purpose of political contestations. For a neutral observer, the ongoing infighting—marked by power struggles and seemingly endless squabbles—begs the question: what exactly is at stake? Is it resources, authority, influence, or power? Despite the intensity of these internal conflicts, the battle lines and key players remain ambiguous, and the constant refrain of “control of structure” seems devoid of clarity. One must ask, to what end is this "structure" being contested amid such disorder? To contextualize this struggle, one might draw an allegory to the 1884 Berlin Conference—a historic gathering where the European powers came together to partition Africa. While the Berlin Conference was undoubtedly exploitative and left devastating consequences for Africa, it was nevertheless a structured and goal-orie...

The President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Davidson Alaribe, in an interview with Punch correspondent Johnson Idowu, shared his thoughts on the state of Nigeria’s judicial system and other pressing issues affecting the country. Alaribe stated: “Our judicial system, particularly regarding punishment for fraud and corruption, is very loose. All one needs to do is steal billions of naira and use a fraction of the stolen funds to hire a legal defense team. If we reform the system and establish a special court to handle fraud cases, corruption will significantly reduce, if not disappear entirely. “In China, individuals caught in acts of corruption face the death penalty, and we are advocating for similarly strict measures. Even if we do not adopt the death penalty, sentencing corrupt individuals to life imprisonment through a specialized anti-corruption court is essential. This should be separate from the regular courts, where cases are often struck out on te...

Nigerians have, for far too long, remained tethered to stale ideas that perpetuate the chains of oppression. These ideas have not only stifled growth but have created a system where mediocrity thrives, leaving the people in a constant cycle of suffering. This tragic acceptance of a broken system must end if we are to reclaim our dignity and build a society that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. Take Kemi, for instance. She is currently in Nigeria, not out of disdain for her people or her homeland, but driven by a deep-seated frustration with the system that has reduced her country to a haven for political thieves and thugs. She despises a system that enables corruption, rewards incompetence, and oppresses the very people it is meant to serve. Her frustration, however, extends beyond the political elite. It includes the countless citizens who idolize these oppressors or choose silence in the face of gross injustice and the blatant disregard for their right to a decent standard...

The underdevelopment of Nigeria, a nation blessed with abundant natural and human resources, can be largely attributed to the actions and inactions of its political class. Since independence in 1960, the country has experienced numerous challenges stemming from poor governance, corruption, and self-serving leadership, which have hindered its progress. This piece explores the various ways politicians have contributed to Nigeria's underdevelopment, focusing on corruption, poor policy implementation, ethnic and religious manipulation, neglect of critical sectors, and the prioritization of personal gains over national interests. 1. Corruption as the Core of Underdevelopment Corruption is perhaps the most significant factor in Nigeria's underdevelopment. Politicians in Nigeria have institutionalized corruption, diverting public funds meant for development into personal coffers. This culture of impunity has led to the mismanagement of billions of dollars from oil revenues, internatio...

TEXT OF THE GOODWILL MESSAGE DELIVERED TO THE URHOBO PROGRESS UNION (UPU) BY PROF. BENJAMIN OGELE OKABA, PRESIDENT OF THE IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC) WORLDWIDE, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 93RD URHOBO NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION AT THE URHOBO HOUSE, UVWIAMUGE AGBARHO, DELTA STATE, ON DECEMBER 6, 2024 1. I respectfully acknowledge the presence of esteemed dignitaries at this momentous occasion and commend the leadership of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) for inviting the Ijaw Nation to celebrate this milestone. On behalf of the 40 million Ijaw people under the Ijaw National Congress (INC), I congratulate the Urhobo Nation and the UPU for 93 years of impactful leadership and advocacy. 2. The Ijaw Nation sees its participation here as both a privilege and an obligation, reflecting shared histories, challenges, and aspirations for greatness. Our deep socio-economic and biological ties underscore the bond between the Urhobo and Ijaw, evident in our mutual presence in each other’s communities and s...

Delta State, Nigeria – The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has received a significant boost as Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the Honourable Member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, officially joined the party. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Deputy President of the 9th Senate and Leader of Delta State APC, made the disclosure in a statement, describing Ibori-Suenu’s move as a game-changer for the party’s influence and development agenda in the state. “I am thrilled to welcome Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu to the APC,” Omo-Agege said. “Her decision to join us marks a monumental boost to the party’s growing strength in Delta State. Beyond being a valuable addition, she is a trusted ally and long-time friend, whose leadership skills, dedication, and commitment to the welfare of our people are exceptional.” Omo-Agege highlighted the shared vision between the APC and Ibori-Suenu, emphasizing her wealth of experience as a crucial asset in driving the party’s goals for growth and s...

In a revelation that underscores the depth of corruption in Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently disclosed that 753 duplexes have been seized from a single former public official. Yes, 753 properties, all acquired through the theft of public funds meant to serve millions. This shocking figure is a glaring testament to the unchecked greed and impunity that have eroded the very foundations of governance and development in Nigeria. And this is merely the tip of the iceberg. For every thief caught or exposed, there are thousands more who remain in the shadows. These looters have siphoned billions of naira and foreign currencies to build empires of stolen wealth, both within Nigeria and abroad. From Abuja to Dubai, Lagos to London, and Port Harcourt to Paris, the map of Nigerian corruption is global. Their ill-gotten gains fund luxurious lifestyles, private jets, opulent mansions, and offshore accounts, while the people they were supposed to serve are left w...

On Sunday, President Joe Biden issued a sweeping and unprecedented “Full and Unconditional Pardon” to his son, Hunter Biden, covering all offenses he may have committed or participated in between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024. This controversial decision, following years of Democratic criticism of Donald Trump’s alleged disregard for norms and ethics, has ignited fierce debate about morality, governance, and the credibility of American institutions. For much of Trump’s presidency, Democrats positioned themselves as the guardians of truth, the rule of law, and institutional integrity, contrasting their values against the scandals and norm-breaking behaviors attributed to the former president. Biden’s decision, however, has prompted critics—including some within his own party—to question whether he has abandoned this moral high ground. By pardoning Hunter for gun and tax offenses, and potentially broader crimes, Biden risks undermining the very principles that his party champione...

The motto “In God We Trust” and the celebration of Thanksgiving Day epitomize America's moral and ethical character, uniting its citizens under a shared sense of gratitude and national identity. These elements embody values that go beyond religion, anchoring patriotism and fostering emotional connection among Americans. The phrase “In God We Trust” conveys the idea that the nation's political and economic prosperity rests in divine providence. Its origins date back to the Civil War when it was first printed on coins, symbolizing hope and resilience during turbulent times. In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a law making it the official motto of the United States, replacing the earlier unofficial motto, “E Pluribus Unum” ("Out of Many, One"). This act reinforced the nation's collective faith and identity during the Cold War era. Thanksgiving Day, another cornerstone of American moral tradition, is rooted in gratitude for divine blessings. Its history tra...

Governance is often judged by how effectively it addresses the needs of the people it serves. However, in many instances, inconsistencies in decision-making highlight glaring contradictions that undermine public trust and hinder development. A pertinent example is the ongoing debate over the rehabilitation of the Eku/Agbor Road, a crucial infrastructure project in the state. Since the previous administration, the refusal to repair the Eku/Agbor Road has been a contentious issue. The state government’s stance has been clear: the road is a federal responsibility, and therefore, its maintenance falls outside the purview of the state. On the surface, this argument might seem reasonable, as delineating responsibilities between state and federal authorities is essential to ensuring accountability. However, when viewed against the backdrop of other state actions, this logic unravels, exposing a contradiction in governance priorities. Consider this: the same state government that declines to r...

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was established in 2001 with the lofty goal of addressing the developmental needs of the oil-rich but impoverished Niger Delta region. Two decades later, the verdict is damning: the NDDC has failed spectacularly, and its legacy is one of mismanagement, embezzlement, and systemic corruption. Far worse than its predecessor, the Oil Mineral Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC), the NDDC has squandered hundreds of millions of dollars and trillions of naira, resources that should have been used to uplift the region's poorest communities. For 24 years, the NDDC has operated as a cesspool of corruption, enriching a few at the expense of the majority. Despite its mandate, the commission has done little to improve the lives of Niger Deltans or contribute meaningfully to the region's economy. Unlike OMPADEC, which at least played a role in reducing crude theft during its time, the NDDC has not only failed to curb the illegal sipho...

Nigeria, a country of over 200 million people, is one of the most diverse nations in the world, with over 250 ethnic groups, numerous languages, and distinct cultural identities. Despite this richness in diversity, many Nigerians from various ethnic groups and geographical zones have consistently questioned the foundation of the nation's unity. For them, the concept of "one Nigeria" appears tenuous, propped up less by shared ideals and aspirations and more by the strategic and economic interests tied to oil politics. Historical Context of Disunity From its colonial inception, Nigeria's unity has been more a construct of British imperial interests than the organic will of its people. The 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates was primarily designed for administrative convenience and economic exploitation. It prioritized colonial resource extraction over fostering any meaningful integration among the disparate regions. This foundation of forced coe...

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) is aware of two critical bills currently before the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These bills, sponsored by Senator Joel Onowakpo, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, seek to establish a School of Nursing in Patani (Patani Local Government Area) and a Polytechnic in Bomadi (Bomadi Local Government Area)—both within Ijaw- areas in0 Delta State. The Ijaw people, both in Delta State and across the globe, are thrilled at the prospects of having such higher institutions finally located in their long-neglected communities. A brief historical perspective is necessary here. For decades, the Ijaw people of Delta State have consistently advocated for the establishment of higher institutions in their areas. Unfortunately, these appeals have fallen on deaf ears, even though Delta State boasts the highest number of higher institutions in Nigeria. Nearly all other ethnic groups within the state have benefited from these institutions, with som...

The recent EFCC invitation of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has generated significant buzz, particularly among opposition circles and those attempting to ingratiate themselves with the former governor through sycophantic behaviour. The clamour is unsurprising; in Nigeria, such incidents often transcend legality to become fodder for political manoeuvring and public spectacle. For some, the objective is clear: to discredit and sideline Okowa from playing any significant role in the political landscape of 2027. For others, it may simply be rooted in envy and jealousy. What stands out, however, is the hypocritical zeal with which many have jumped onto this narrative. Suddenly, critics and commentators alike paint themselves as paragons of integrity, casting Okowa as the singular embodiment of villainy. This oversimplified portrayal misses the larger, uncomfortable truth: corruption is deeply entrenched in Nigeria. Given the same opportunities, many of those currently shouting f...

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently called for a credible leadership for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure election integrity in Nigeria. While the statement aligns with the critical need for credible elections in the country, it raises questions about the messenger’s own credibility. Obasanjo, once described by Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka as a “pathological liar, predator, and sadist,” has a controversial political legacy that includes his infamous "do-or-die" approach to elections. His tenure as president and his post-office interventions have often been marred by allegations of electoral manipulation and authoritarian tendencies. For many, Obasanjo’s call for integrity feels ironic, given his history of undermining democratic processes. The former president’s role in the 2003 and 2007 elections, widely criticized for irregularities, continues to haunt his democratic credentials. These elections were marked by voter intimidation, b...

In politics, leaders often portray themselves as builders of a perfect society, promising a utopia where every citizen's needs are met by a compassionate and virtuous government. These visions, echoing the ideals of classical philosophers like Rousseau, Hobbes, and Locke, imagine a world of fairness, security, and fulfilment. However, such promises are rarely rooted in reality. Instead, they serve as catchy campaign slogans, rallying supporters to embrace a fictional “paradise,” with party loyalists acting like devoted followers of this political faith. In earlier times, political promises were often tied to long-term goals and generational visions. Today, however, the electorate has become impatient, shaped by the fast-paced digital age. Voters demand instant results, abandoning the patience needed for sustainable growth. In response, political campaigns prioritize immediate, superficial solutions over meaningful reform. Handouts like free rice, instant noodles, or cash payments r...

Tinubu’s Man, Akinyelure Fingered, Oni-Okpaku Arrested. Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, allegedly collected $1million, an equivalent of (N1.7billion) bribe in August 2023 from a former Executive Director of Operations at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Victor Ochei, who was desirous of emerging as the Managing Director of the agency, investigative journalist, Jackson Ude had said. This, he said is according to an audio recording of what transpired currently in his possession. He said this in a post via X on Sunday evening. He continued: “Other people who had lobbied for the DG NIMASA job also allegedly paid between $2million and $3million. Although Dayo Mobereola eventually emerged as the DG NIMASA in March 2024. It is not immediately known if he paid to secure the job. Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku, a former Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Edo State under Godwin Obaseki, in the audio, claimed that she had met Ochei...

Christianity is not the religion of Jesus. This may sound like a radical statement, but hear me out: What we call "Christianity" today bears little resemblance to what Jesus of Nazareth actually taught and practiced. As the great theologian Howard Thurman pointed out, we must distinguish between the "religion about Jesus"—what Christianity has become—and the "religion of Jesus"—the faith Jesus himself actually lived and taught. The "religion about Jesus," which emerged in the centuries after his death, focuses on believing specific doctrines about Jesus: that he was divine, born of a virgin, died for our sins, and rose from the dead. It emphasizes correct beliefs and promises eternal rewards for adherence to these teachings. But this wasn't Jesus's religion. The historical Jesus—the poor, Palestine Jewish prophet who lived 2,000 years ago—practiced and preached something radically different. The Religion of Jesus: Love in Action The relig...

Nigeria is a nation brimming with untapped potential, rich cultural heritage, and abundant natural resources. Despite these assets, the country finds itself ensnared in a complex web of corruption and a pervasive lack of patriotism. These issues have not only hampered the nation's growth but have also eroded the public’s faith in the government, creating an environment where personal gain overshadows the common good. Understanding how these factors are interwoven provides insight into why Nigeria's journey towards true progress remains stalled. The Perils of Corruption: A Systemic Issue Corruption in Nigeria runs deep, infiltrating nearly every aspect of the society. It is present not only at the highest levels of government but also within local institutions, law enforcement, education, and healthcare. Politicians, driven by personal enrichment rather than public service, often use their positions to siphon off national resources meant for development. Projects critical to the...

The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) was established to be a unifying body for the Urhobo people, standing as a voice for their collective welfare, culture, and political interests. However, recent developments suggest that this mission has been compromised, as the UPU and its youth wing appear more divided than united, splitting along political lines in ways that betray its founding purpose. Instead of reinforcing solidarity within the Urhobo nation, the UPU has become entangled in partisan allegiances, leading to unfortunate factionalism. This divisive approach has, at times, veered into what can only be described as a display of misplaced loyalty and folly, especially in situations where the UPU should be advocating for accountability and justice for the Urhobo people. One incident that highlights the UPU's troubling trajectory was its recent "sympathy visit" to former Delta State Governor Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, who was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes C...

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw nation, has been informed that some individuals, claiming allegiance to a factional leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), are planning a protest in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, against the NDDC on Thursday, November 14, 2024. We have also received credible intelligence indicating that other youth groups are preparing to violently counter this planned protest. The INC is deeply concerned, especially given the recent IYC incident in Abuloma, Rivers State, which resulted in the senseless maiming and killing of Ijaw youths. We fear that allowing this protest to proceed could lead to a tragic repeat of the Abuloma episode. The INC will not stand by while our youths harm one another under any pretext. The unity of our youth is the strength of our nation. Our stance on the Ijaw Youth Council's (IYC) leadership is clear: Jonathan Lokpobiri (Snr) was duly elected president of the IYC's 9th...

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State finds itself at a crucial crossroads. As the main opposition to the entrenched People's Democratic Party (PDP), it has the potential to offer a compelling alternative. However, internal challenges in the APC have created significant barriers to this goal. Factionalism, internal rivalry, and the influence of personal agendas have distracted the party from its core mission as an opposition force, which should be to create a united, persuasive, and effective platform to compete for the state's leadership. Without a cohesive approach, the APC risks undermining its own prospects, allowing the PDP to maintain its dominant position with little resistance.  A key figure in Delta APC's landscape is Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, who currently stands out as the party’s most viable candidate to contest the PDP's grip on power. Omo-Agege’s appeal is rooted in his established state-wide recognition, his political experience, and his capaci...