THE INTEGRITY OF A HOMOGENOUS IJAW STATE: A CALL FOR VIGILANCE IN BAYELSA STATE

By Ebiowei Tare-ebi, Esq

Bayelsa State was conceived and carved out as the homogenous heartland of the Ijaw nation—a cultural sanctuary where the language, heritage, and identity of the Ijaw people could flourish without dilution or political overshadowing. For many Ijaws, the creation of Bayelsa in 1996 answered a historic longing: a homeland where minority anxieties would give way to unity, cultural safety, and self-determination. This was albeit a product of agitations for which some of our forebears even paid the supreme price.

It is in this context that contemporary political developments have raised deep concern across Ijaw communities, particularly regarding issues of identity, representation, and the preservation of the state’s founding essence.

Recent political decisions—especially the choice of leaders whose names or perceived lineage appear to fall outside the traditional Ijaw identity matrix—have sparked intense debates that cannot simply be dismissed as emotional reactions. They border on the heart of who we are as Ijaw people, how we define ourselves, and how political actors should safeguard the cultural integrity entrusted to them.

Identity and the Stakes of Misrepresentation

Among the most critical and fundamental issues of discourse is the argument that presenting individuals with non-Ijaw names, identities, or ancestral ties as indigenes of strictly Ijaw clans opens a door that history warns us not to overlook. Communities such as Ofoni and the wider Tarakiri Clan are undoubtedly part of the Ijaw nation. 

However, when claims of belonging are stretched—or appear to be stretched—beyond established genealogies and historical realities, suspicion and resistance are bond to naturally arise.

The anxiety is not necessarily about the individual personalities involved.

Rather, it is about the precedent.

Once a political pathway is established through which non-Ijaw identities can be legitimised as indigenes of Ijaw land, the gates are opened. The demographic, cultural, and political safeguards that defined Bayelsa’s creation can begin to erode gradually, quietly, and irreversibly. A clear example can be seen in the Ministry of Education where the lingua franca is the Urhobo language and the subtle establishment of settlements at the Elemebiri axis of Sagbama Local Government Area of the state.

Lessons From Elsewhere: A Warning From History

Those who raise alarm as part of the discourse often point to Warri and Ilorin in Delta and Kwara States respectively, where identity disputes, migrations, and political manoeuvring over decades reshaped the area’s original ethnic equations. They also reference international examples—such as Lebanon, where demographic shifts and political concessions permanently altered the balance of power, with deep, long-term consequences.

In both cases, early signs were dismissed, only for communities to later discover that once demographic and identity boundaries are blurred, they are exceedingly difficult to restore.

The Bayelsa Question: Is the Ijaw Homeland at Risk?

The central fear is simple:

If non-Ijaw identities can be politically “naturalised” as Ijaw for convenience, then Bayelsa may gradually lose the unique homogeneity that makes it the cultural headquarters of the Ijaw nation.

Political ambition—no matter the claim of sincerity—must never override the collective identity of an entire nationality. Leadership in Ijaw land which is under attack at different fronts by our neighbours from Akwa Ibom to Ondo not to mention Rivers and Delta States, requires restraint, wisdom, and fidelity to the founding principles of the state. Decisions made today, especially regarding identity and representation, will echo far beyond present political cycles especially now that such characters have been emboldened beyond ways and means of challenging Ijaws and acting with impunity in many ways.

A Call for Responsible Leadership

What Bayelsans are demanding is not xenophobia, but clarity and integrity:

• Clear genealogical transparency from those seeking political office in Ijaw homeland.

• Respect for traditional authority and historical lineage structures.

• A firm commitment from political leaders to uphold Bayelsa’s status as the cultural and political anchor of the Ijaw nation.

• Mechanisms to ensure that political expediency does not override ethnic and cultural realities.

Conclusion: The Homeland Must Be Protected.

The Ijaw nation has endured centuries of marginalisation, displacement, and cultural pressure. Bayelsa is more than just a state; it is the symbolic and practical refuge of the Ijaw identity.

Any action—political or otherwise—that threatens this foundation must be examined with seriousness and confronted with courage.

The conversation unfolding today is not only about any individual.

It is about the future of the Ijaw people.

Bayelsa must remain Bayelsa—Ijaw, undiluted, unambiguous, and uncompromised. Let us not give out what we cannot get from others. Let us not allow a seed to geminate for our children to have to fight in the near future. E gberi faa ooo

Ebiowei is a Member, Bayelsa Action Watch

The Philip Agbese Story So Far: Quiet Service, Thunderous Impact

By: Benedict Aguele

The recent scenes emerging from Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo, the federal constituency of the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Rep. Philip Agbese; the sheer size of the throng and the palpable joy attending his homecoming offer more than just a typical political narrative. They affirm the powerful resonance of a representative whose mission is anchored in tangible impact, a quality I have observed in him long before his ascension to the National Assembly.

In an era saturated with political noise and calculated antagonism, the most compelling evidence of leadership is the undiluted support of the governed. The reception the Enone Servant received is profound evidence of his connection with his people. This isn’t manufactured loyalty; it is the organic appreciation of a constituency witnessing a devolution of democracy’s dividends—projects and empowerment initiatives spread across the constituency at a pace and scale previously absent.

Hon. Agbese embodies a rare conviction, the capacity to remain fixed on the objective despite deliberate distractions. I have always known him to possess a deeply compassionate spirit and a fundamental drive for philanthropy. This inherent character trait now translates seamlessly into effective legislative representation, demonstrating that his focus is not the ephemeral political skirmish but the enduring welfare of his constituents.

As I often emphasise, the core of politics is inherently local. National visibility is secondary to local efficacy.  Rep. Agbese’s current prominence is a direct consequence of his uninterrupted commitment to the grassroots. His fidelity to his mandate has rendered political machinations ineffective. The people of his constituency have spoken, not through rhetoric, but through their collective presence and sustained jubilation, confirming that their representative is fundamentally a man undeterred by peripheral conflicts, whose heart remains squarely set on delivering progress.

Agbese’s style of leadership is rare. He is not the type to hug the spotlight at every given opportunity; in fact, he’s probably the most modest and humble politician I have come across. From education, healthcare, sports, community development, security, welfare, human capital development to agriculture, the Congressman is making impact without the usual buzz or pageantry. You would never see him at the flag-off or commissioning of projects. He rarely flaunts pictures of his empowerment programmes and barely speaks of his philanthropic gestures. That’s how he has always been. Many of us who have known this extraordinary and selfless gentleman for over a decade can attest to this. But there is more.

What the people are celebrating today is drawn largely from just his first budget cycle as a freshman lawmaker—yet the pipeline is loaded with transformative projects already captured in the 2025 and 2026 appropriation acts. Major road networks, modern hospitals, solar-powered boreholes, skills acquisition centres, youth and women empowerment schemes, and massive agricultural support programmes are fully funded and at various stages of procurement and execution across the three local government areas.

Hon. Agbese has gone far beyond the standard constituency allocation, aggressively attracting federal ministries, development agencies, and international partners to multiply resources and ensure no ward or village is left behind. What we see now is merely the foundation; the real structural transformation of Enone is only just beginning.

Outside our shores, he continues to represent Nigeria with dignity and pride. In the Pan-African Parliament, he has become a constant, respected voice and has forged a strong alliance with the PAP President to advance both national interests and the aspirations of his people. Remarkably, he is the first first-term lawmaker to head a standing committee at the apex continental body — the Committee on Health and Artificial Intelligence—where he is already shaping policy on digital health and ethical AI deployment across the continent.

Of course, there will be persecution. Even our Lord Jesus Christ was betrayed by one of His own disciples, so in the coming days we expect more blackmail, more smears, more orchestrated campaigns of calumny. But this is a man whose integrity has stood the test of time; no amount of mudslinging will distract him from the sacred mandate the people have reaffirmed with their feet, their voices, and their overflowing love.

And that, ultimately, is the Philip Agbese story so far: quiet service, massive results, and a future that promises even greater dividends for the good people of Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo.

Benedict Aguele Is A Member, Governing Council, Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State.

From Inefficiency to Excellence: The Oloyede JAMB's Remittance Story

Akonasu Gbedozin 

In a nation where corruption and mismanagement often dominate headlines, it's refreshing to encounter a story of transparency, accountability, and exemplary leadership. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), under the visionary leadership of Professor Is-haq Oloyede, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, remitting over N4,8 billion to the Nigerian government in 2024 alone.

According to JAMB's records, the board generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 in 2024, out of which N4,824,605,510.69 was remitted to the government. This significant remittance is a clear indication of JAMB's financial sustainability and its ability to manage its resources effectively.

Notably, JAMB achieved all these remarkable feats despite reducing the cost of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms from N5,000 to N3,500 in 2018, a price that has remained unchanged since then, easing the financial burden on students and their families. 

This impressive feat is not an isolated incident. Since Professor Oloyede's appointment as Registrar in 2016, the body has undergone a transformative journey, remitting over N60 billion to the national treasury over the years. This remarkable track record attests to the board's financial discipline and its dedication to serving the nation.

Before Oloyede's arrival, JAMB was plagued by allegations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency that undermined its effectiveness and public trust. In addition, the examination and registration processes were often marred by delays, errors, and logistical issues. This caused frustration among candidates and their parents. 

There was also a general opacity in JAMB’s operations, particularly in the admission process, leading to suspicions of favouritism and corruption. Despite its crucial role in the education sector, it was not a significant revenue generator for the government. Its financial contributions to the national treasury were minimal. In all, years of perceived mismanagement had eroded public confidence in JAMB’s ability to conduct fair and credible examinations for Nigerians.

The board's remittances to the national treasury were abysmal, reflecting the inefficient management of its resources. In 2011, for instance, JAMB remitted a paltry N11,522,808 to the government. The following year, 2012, was even worse, with no remittance made to the national treasury. This lack of transparency and accountability was a hallmark of JAMB's operations during this period. In 2013, the board remitted N25,303,274, a slight improvement from the previous year, but still a far cry from what was expected.

In 2014, JAMB remitted N13,926,462 to the government, a decline from the previous year's remittance. The board's financial performance continued to deteriorate, with no remittances made in 2015 and 2016. In a staggering display of inefficiency, JAMB remitted a mere N60 million to the national treasury over its entire 38-year existence before 2016. This sorry state of affairs was a reflection of the organisation's inefficiencies. It was clear that a radical transformation was needed to restore JAMB's credibility and financial discipline.

However, under Professor Oloyede's stewardship, the body has evolved from a financially dependent and inefficient organisation to a self-sufficient government agency, generating over N5 billion annually. This financial independence has been achieved through a combination of innovative reforms, strict financial controls, and a commitment to transparency.

These returns were bolstered by the Board’s expanded internal capacities for its operations achieved through direct execution of its processes and procedures, which instantly resulted in, for instance, a savings of N1.2bn being paid annually to a service provider and a downward review of the N1.2bn being annually paid to another to about N400m with the same old service provider. This is in addition to the recovery of over N1.2bn in both cash and estates in choice areas of Abuja in 2016.

The financial contributions of JAMB under Professor Oloyede's leadership have had far-reaching implications for the Nigerian economy. The billions of naira remitted to the national treasury have been channelled into critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, driving economic growth and development. Furthermore, JAMB's financial sustainability has created a model for other government agencies to follow, demonstrating that with effective management and financial discipline, public institutions can generate significant revenue for the government.

Moreover, Professor Oloyede's transformative leadership at JAMB has also had a profound impact on the organisation's operational efficiency. The introduction of technological innovations has significantly reduced examination malpractice and improved the overall candidate experience. This, in turn, has boosted public confidence in JAMB's ability to conduct fair and credible examinations, further solidifying its position as a leader in Nigeria's educational landscape.

One of the hallmarks of Professor Oloyede's leadership is his emphasis on digitalisation. The Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) has revolutionised the admissions process, making it more transparent and efficient. His commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in his policy of openness, where "whatever would be done, must be on the table." 

Professor Is-haq Oloyede's exceptional leadership qualities and penchant for excellence are not new. During his tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin from 2007 to 2012, his administration was marked by a relentless pursuit of academic excellence, infrastructural development, and financial sustainability.

Under his visionary leadership, the university underwent a transformative journey, rising to become one of the top institutions in Nigeria and Africa. Professor Oloyede's commitment to excellence led to significant improvements in academic standards, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

As Professor Oloyede's remarkable legacy continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, his transformation of JAMB serves as a powerful reminder that effective leadership, transparency, and accountability can drive excellence in even the most challenging contexts. His impact on Nigeria's educational landscape will be felt for generations to come, and his commitment to reform and excellence sets a high standard for other public institutions to follow.

In conclusion, Professor Oloyede's leadership has not only transformed JAMB but has also redefined the role of public institutions in Nigeria. His commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence has created a model for other institutions to follow, demonstrating that with effective leadership, public institutions can drive economic growth.

 Comrade Kabir Matazu , a Public Affairs Analyst wrote from Abuja

Redirecting the Rage and Target of Nigeria's Proposed Protest, By Idowu Faleye

By Idowu Ephraim Faleye

In recent weeks, there has been a growing call for protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. These protests, characterized by the slogan "Tinubu Must Go," have been gaining traction across various parts of Nigeria. However, a closer examination reveals that the anger and frustration of the populace may be misdirected. Instead of targeting the president, who has shown genuine intentions to improve the nation, the focus should be on holding the National Assembly and certain cabinet members accountable for their roles in the country's ongoing challenges. 

To understand why the protest should be redirected, it is crucial to recognize the efforts and battles President Tinubu has been engaged in since he took office. Tinubu's administration has been marked by a series of bold moves aimed at addressing deeply rooted issues in Nigeria. From tackling the cabals manipulating the foreign exchange market to advocating for Local Government Autonomy, Tinubu has shown a clear commitment to transparency and decentralization of power. 

*The Battles Fought For the Progress and Development of the Country by President Tinubu:* 

*Foreign Exchange Market Manipulation:* Tinubu's administration has confronted powerful cabals that have long manipulated Nigeria's foreign exchange market. This battle is fought with good intentions and is crucial for stabilizing the economy and ensuring fair access to foreign currency for all Nigerians. 

*Subsidy Reform:* 

One of Tinubu's most controversial moves was the removal of petroleum subsidies. While this policy has led to short-term economic pain, it was fought with good intentions and a necessary step to free up resources for more productive uses. The challenge now is to implement measures that will mitigate the adverse effects on the populace. 

*Local Government Autonomy:* 

Tinubu has taken on state governors by advocating for the autonomy of local governments. This decentralization effort is aimed at ensuring that resources reach the grassroots level and are used for the development of local communities. 

*Transparency in Oil and Gas:*

The fight against corruption in the oil and gas sector is another significant battle fought with good intentions. Tinubu's administration has taken steps to dismantle the entrenched interests that have long benefitted from opaque practices in this critical sector. 

*Banking Sector Reforms:* 

By challenging the CEOs of major banks, Tinubu is working to reshape Nigeria's banking sector to better serve the needs of the people and the economy. 

*Security Challenges:* Tinubu's administration is grappling with various security challenges, including food insecurity, banditry, destruction of farmlands by herdsmen, and the ongoing threat of Boko Haram. His commitment to security and peace remains steadfast. 

*The Real Culprits:* 

The country continues to face significant challenges, including widespread hunger, partly as a result of the subsidy removal policy. Despite the President's promises of government of national competence, It has become increasingly clear that some members of President Tinubu's cabinet lack the competence to effectively address these issues. This incompetence has hindered the administration's ability to implement policies that would cushion the effects of subsidy removal and other necessary reforms. Furthermore, the National Assembly has also played a role in perpetuating these challenges. Their refusal to support a bill that would prevent the use of the defense budget for purposes other than its intended use raises serious questions about their commitment to national security and prudent fiscal management. 

*Intent Matters:* 

The Importance of Good Intentions in any political administration can not be overemphasized. The intention behind policies and actions is crucial. A wrong step taken with good intentions can be corrected, while a seemingly good step taken with bad intentions can lead to disastrous outcomes. President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated good intentions in his efforts to reform Nigeria. While some of his policies may have had unintended negative consequences, it has been demonstrated that his overall goal is to develop the nation and improve the lives of Nigerians. 

*The Need for a Strategic Protest* 

Given this context, it is evident that the call for "Tinubu Must Go" is misguided. Removing President Tinubu would not only disrupt the ongoing reform efforts but also plunge the country into political uncertainty. The political arrangement in Nigeria requires the presidency to be rotated between the Northern and Southern zones. This means that any immediate replacement for Tinubu would face significant challenges in terms of legitimacy and acceptance across the nation. Instead, the protest should be strategically targeted. The real demand should be for a reshuffling of the president's cabinet to bring in more competent individuals who can effectively implement the necessary reforms. Additionally, the National Assembly should be held accountable for their actions and urged to reduce their exorbitant allowances and salaries to align with the economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. 

*A Call for Localized Action* 

To maximize the impact of the protest, it should be conducted in a decentralized manner. Protesters should take their grievances to their respective states of origin, focusing on local issues and holding their state representatives accountable. This approach would ensure that the protest remains peaceful and constructive, rather than descending into chaos and violence. 

While the frustration and anger of Nigerians are understandable, it is crucial to direct these emotions towards the right targets. President Tinubu has shown a genuine commitment to reforming Nigeria, and his intentions should not be doubted. The focus should be on ensuring that his administration is supported by competent individuals and that the National Assembly is held accountable for its actions. By doing so, Nigerians can channel their energies towards constructive change that will lead to a better future for all.

( dowu Ephraim Faleye writes from Ado-Ekiti )