Innocent Ojefia Blog

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...

  Dear President-Elect Donald J. Trump, On behalf of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide, the umbrella socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw people of Nigeria, we extend our warmest congratulations to you on your historic election as the 47th President of the United States of America. Your electoral achievement is a testament to your resilience, determination, leadership, and vision to "Make America Great Again" (MAGA). We acknowledge the significance of this moment for you and the trust placed in you by the American people to lead them. As the representative body of the Ijaw people worldwide, we recognize the importance of fostering positive relationships between nations, acknowledging that nation-states are made up of sub-national entities and ethnic nationalities. We therefore look forward to collaborating with your administration to promote mutual understanding and cooperation that will benefit both America and the Ijaw ethnic nationality. Under your leadership, ...

The owner of the body does not say that he is in no pain while we insist on commiserating with him for his sleeplessness and restlessness. One does not commiserate with a person who does not admit to misfortune. Nigeria, a land once rich with promise, now stands as a testament to the collapse of its institutions. The emblematic “N” that once symbolized pride, resilience, and functionality in institutions like Nigerian Airways, Nigerian Railway, NITEL (Nigerian Telecommunications Limited), Niger Dock, Nigerian Hospitals, and Nigerian Schools has become a cruel reminder of the past. These once-formidable pillars, the heartbeat of national development, now exist as shadows of their former selves, barely clinging to a semblance of operation. The sentiment that "Nothing with 'N' works anymore" is no longer just a saying but a harsh reality for millions of Nigerians. The decline of these institutions is not an isolated event but a symptom of a deeper, systemic rot. This rot...

Some people may despise Donald Trump and the MAGA movement with every fibre of their being, but they must acknowledge the legitimacy of the election results. While many people may have reluctantly voted for Kamala Harris because of her opponent, rather than because she was an appealing candidate, the reality is that Harris was a subpar contender. She was often inarticulate and monotone, and when she did attempt to speak with conviction, it came across as awkward and disconnected. Listening to her speeches only seemed to breed more disdain. The criticism from Republicans about her tendency to deliver word salad wasn’t entirely unfounded. Initially, it seemed as if she was intentionally speaking in circles to buy time during interviews, but over time, it became clear that this was, unfortunately, her best effort, which, frankly, is not good enough for someone aiming to lead the country. In contrast, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, during the 2nd Republic in Nigeria, began his concession speeche...

In today's political climate, excessive partisanship often clouds the judgment of opponents, making it difficult to objectively assess the achievements of those in office. This tendency is especially evident in Delta State, where many opponents of the incumbent governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, remain reluctant to acknowledge his progress. However, in the less than two years since he assumed office, Governor Oborevwori has shown a clear vision for transformative governance in Delta State, warranting a fair and unbiased evaluation of his leadership. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori entered office with a commitment to complete all abandoned and ongoing projects throughout the state. This approach reflects a remarkable sense of continuity and responsibility, as he vowed not to abandon any project, whether it was initiated by his administration or inherited from past governments. Such a pledge is significant, especially in a political landscape where new leaders often focus solely on their agen...

The Delta State House of Assembly has suspended Hon. Ogbuefi Chukwudi Dafe, the representative of the Ukwuani State constituency, over allegations of gross misconduct. The suspension was officially announced by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, following a motion raised on the House floor and unanimously adopted by its members. Further details to follow.......

In the Gospels, Jesus’ confrontations with religious and political authorities are a significant theme, reflecting his challenge to corruption, hypocrisy, and the misuse of power. His actions reveal a powerful critique of the structures that exploit or oppress, offering a model for justice, compassion, and integrity. Key episodes from the Gospels illustrate this, showing Jesus standing against religious and political hypocrisy while advocating for a purer, more genuine faith. For instance, in Matthew 21:12-13, Jesus drives out money changers from the temple, condemning them for transforming a house of prayer into a "den of robbers." His actions critique the commercialization of sacred spaces and underscore his zeal for upholding true worship. In Matthew 23, Jesus directly addresses the religious leaders, denouncing their hypocrisy and their emphasis on outward appearances over authentic faith and compassion. He labels the Scribes and Pharisees as "whitewashed tombs"...

The One Rivers Initiative (ORI) has committed itself to critically analyze and comment on the governance of Nigeria under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu—a leadership style that, in our view, is marked by a lack of empathy, impunity, and favoritism. We do this with the hope that history will vindicate those who stand for justice. For the first time in Nigeria's history, the nation appears to be run as a business enterprise, where citizens are treated as commodities in a survival-of-the-fittest system. Tragically, the vulnerable are bearing the brunt of President Tinubu’s pro-elite economic policies. Rather than addressing the critiques of these policies from the media, ethnic organizations, civil society groups, and the general populace, the government instead takes comfort in praise from the World Bank and the IMF. It is disheartening to see them relish accolades from these Bretton Woods institutions while disregarding the genuine concerns and pain of Nigerians—the very people they ar...

In the past 16 months, Delta State has witnessed remarkable growth and progress under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Amidst an era where borrowing has become the norm for financing public projects, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has chosen a different path—demonstrating fiscal discipline by avoiding debt to fund the state’s initiatives. This approach has not only ensured that ongoing and completed projects are financed responsibly, but it also positions Delta State as an example of sustainable governance. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has undertaken ambitious infrastructural projects across the state’s three senatorial districts, addressing critical needs and enhancing the well-being of its citizens. These projects, which span sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and utilities, have been implemented to meet the unique needs of each district, while also supporting the economic growth of Delta State as a whole. From road constructions and ed...

The swearing-in of new ministers today is taking place without the usual fanfare, as the recent reshuffling of Nigeria's federal executive council, which initially raised high hopes, ultimately fell short of expectations. Many Nigerians had anticipated that President Bola Tinubu would use this opportunity to strengthen his cabinet by appointing respected technocrats. The absence of renowned experts has been a glaring weakness in Tinubu's administration. Technocrats have historically played significant roles in driving the achievements of past governments, using their expertise to implement policies that fostered growth, transparency, and global credibility. By bringing in such skilled professionals, Tinubu could have advanced his "Renewed Hope" agenda, aimed at tackling economic challenges and fostering sustainable development. However, instead of focusing on a cabinet capable of delivering substantial results, Tinubu opted to retain numerous career politicians. Many ...