Okpe Union Inaugurates New BOT

The Okpe Union has inaugurated a new board of trustees (BoT).

 

The event was held on Sunday at the Okpe Union headquarters in Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital.

 

Top Okpe leaders, including the President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe, attended the inauguration.

 

“We are gathered here today, at the National Headquarters and Registered Office of the Okpe Union, No. 65, Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State, to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union, as ordered by the Federal High Court, Lagos. On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you all to this historic event, which opens a new page in the glorious History of the Okpe Union; the oldest registered Ethnic Union in Nigeria. The Trustees we are appointing today will fill the missing page in the governance structure of the Okpe Union” President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe said during the inauguration.

 

Those inaugurated include Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Atarhe-Abuh as Chairperson and Barrister Felix Orere as secretary.

 

Mr. Bernard Adibor, Ms. Dora Omuvwie, Mr. Patrick Akpotor, Mrs. Florence Oseragbaje, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Hon. Patrick Ovwile, Chief Remi Rita Onomakpome, Rev. Frank Ojogwa Ekejija and Dr. Evans Igho Akpo were also inaugurated as members of the Okpe Union Board of Trustees.

 

Natufe commended Okpe nationals, including those not formally members of the Okpe Union, in Nigeria and the Diaspora, for their strategic advice and selfless financial contributions which have sustained the union in its advocacy for good governance and the rule of law in Okpe Nation.

 

“Together, we are a united force for the growth and development of the Okpe Nation. And together with other indigenous ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, we will define the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism where each ethnic nationality exercises its sovereignty in a truly Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

 

He said ‘’On April 30, 2024, the Federal High of Nigeria sitting in Abuja (Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/395) vacated its earlier order which was surreptitiously obtained by the illegal group of the Okpe Union and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge their names from the CAC’s records.

 

“The order granted us, the legitimate Okpe Union, the authority to appoint new Trustees for the Okpe Union. The ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja is consistent with the earlier judgement of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), which had declared the leadership appointed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Kingdom, on October 3, 2020, as illegal on January 19, 2023.”

 

While the judgement of the Federal High Court Lagos had already nullified and voided the illegal group’s Board of Trustees, the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja pointedly paved the path for the legitimate leadership of the Okpe Union to appoint new Trustees for Okpe Union.

 

On October 27, 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union filed a motion before the Honourable Justice Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, praying the Honourable Court to grant Okpe Union leave to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of the Okpe Union.

 

At the Federal High Court of Nigeria in the Lagos Judicial Division on Wednesday, the 14th day of January, 2026 before his lordship Hon. Justice Y. Bogoro, via Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/1153/2025, leave was granted to the Okpe Union “to convene a meeting and appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union in line with the Provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020” and for “the Corporate Affairs Commission to register the Trustees to be appointed by the Applicant upon satisfaction with the Provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act”.

 

In her acceptance speech, Dr Atarhe-Abuh described the inauguration of the Board of Trustees as a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union.

 

“I stand before you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and responsibility, following the successful inauguration of our Board of Trustees at this meeting today Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, held here at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos. This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed in me and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees. Your trust is both inspiring and humbling, and we do not take it for granted.”

 

She expressed her appreciation to all members of the Okpe Union worldwide.

 

“Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to the ideals of our Union have made this day possible. Your dedication to preserving our heritage, fostering unity and advancing the welfare of the Okpe people remains the bedrock of our collective success.”

 

The BOT Chairperson promised to discharge her duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness

 

“On behalf of my colleagues on the Board of Trustees, I hereby formally accept this appointment. We do so with a full understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to us and with a firm resolve to discharge our duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness. We are committed to upholding the constitution of the Okpe Union and safeguarding its values for present and future generations.”

 

She also pledged to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders.

 

“We recognize that the progress of our Union depends on collaboration and mutual respect among all its organs. In this regard, we pledge to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders. Together, we shall strive to strengthen the structures of our Union, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that our programmes and initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of the Okpe people.”

 

Her words: ‘’At a time when unity and purposeful leadership are most needed, we must rise above individual differences and focus on our shared vision. The Okpe Union must continue to serve as a beacon of hope, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement for our people. We are determined to contribute meaningfully towards this noble cause. Let me also acknowledge the efforts of those who have served before us. Their dedication and sacrifices have laid a solid foundation upon which we now build. We are inspired by their legacy and committed to sustaining and surpassing the standards they have set’’.

 

She called upon every member of the Okpe Union to remain actively engaged and supportive.

 

“The strength of our Union lies in our unity, and together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. I assure you that we shall serve with utmost sincerity and in the best interest of the Okpe people at all times” she added.

 

Under Tinubu, Nigeria is now the Preferred Destination for Global Capital, says Francis Shoga, DG City Boys Movement

.....Reacts to Historic £8.1bn UK-Nigeria Trade Milestone‎

 

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The Director General of the City Boys Movement, Mr. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja today after participating in the historic UK-Nigeria trade mission.

 

Speaking with reporters and digital creators upon his arrival, Mr. Shoga said the atmosphere in London during President Bola Tinubu’s State Visit was "the definitive turning point for Nigeria’s industrial future." 

On the £24 Million Ovaltine Factory in Lagos, Shoga stated, "It is not just a rumor; it is a landmark reality. I can confirm that Twinings Ovaltine has committed £24 million to build its first-ever African manufacturing plant right here in Lagos. This isn't just about a malt drink. It’s about a global British giant saying, 'We trust the Nigerian environment enough to move our production here.' This will create hundreds of direct jobs and turn Lagos into a supply hub for the entire West African sub-region."

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‎Speaking further, the DG of City Boys Movement explained the $496 Million Integrated Dairy Deal: "One of the most transformative agreements signed was the $496 million Integrated Dairy Deal. For too long, Nigeria has spent billions of dollars annually importing dairy. This deal is the game changer. We are bringing in UK expertise to build climate-controlled mega-dairy farms and high-tech processing plants. This isn't just about cows; it’s about a complete value chain—from bovine genetics that will increase milk yield by over 400% to cold-chain logistics that ensure fresh Nigerian milk reaches every dinner table without spoiling. We are moving from being a nation of consumers to producers, creating thousands of rural jobs in the process."

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‎On the £746 Million Port Modernization Deal, he said, "This is the one that should excite every industrialist and oil and gas professional. A £746 million deal was signed to refurbish and modernize the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. We are talking about state-of-the-art quays and digital border systems. This will end the bottlenecks that have frustrated our exporters for decades. The City Boys Movement is proud to see the President’s vision for infrastructure manifesting in such a massive, externally funded way."

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‎Mr. Shoga further highlighted the key point of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit, which is the

record £8.1 Billion Trade Volume. He said, "For the first time in our history, bilateral trade with the UK has hit £8.1 billion annually. This is the result of deliberate, ‘Renewed Hope’ diplomacy. We saw agreements spanning fintech, agriculture, and energy. When you see Zenith Bank opening branches in Manchester and firms like Moniepoint expanding in the UK, you realize that the bridge between Lagos and London is no longer one-way. It is a partnership of equals."

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‎"I am returning with a clear message for Nigerians: the world is betting on us again. The President has opened the doors; now it is up to our local industries to step through them. The City Boys Movement remains committed to advocating for policies that bring direct foreign investment to our doorstep.

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‎This is why we support the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda."

Ozoro Victims: Orette Calls for Fair, unimpeded Access to Justice ‎

 .....Demands  Stronger Protection for Women, Children
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An All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial aspirant in Delta South, Dr. Austin Orette, has described the assault on women in Oruamudhu community, Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area as the ascendancy of evil in the society and a violation of human rights.

“It tells us that much still need to be done to truly educate the people on the need to abolish barbaric culture.’’
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‎In a statement titled ‘’No to sexual abuse in Delta South Senatorial District’’, Orettee criticized individuals and groups disrupting social cohesion in Isoko North Local Government Area.
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‎He demanded stronger protections for women and children in Delta State.
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“The Delta State Government owes it to the victims to take immediate action’’ he said.
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‎Particularly, Orette condemned harmful practices and the debasing of women in public.
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‎”The community must not turn a blind eye to these atrocities.’’
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‎The senatorial hopeful also called for fair and unimpeded access to justice by the victims.
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‎”The onus is on the government to strengthen the rule of law and to ensure that there is proper investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators.”

”Delivering justice to victims sends a clear message of zero tolerance with such crimes and helps to stop their recurrence.”
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‎He comforted the victims of the Ozoro rape festival.

”These crimes must be punished and those responsible must be held accountable."

Credit: Henry Ovie

Orette Engages Delta South Leaders, Stakeholders

...... Announces Political Town Hall

All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Hopeful, Dr Austin Orette, will on Friday speak on the future of Delta South Senatorial District.

Orette, who is running for next year’s Senate Election, will be in Isoko South, Isoko North, Burutu, Bomadi, Patani, Warri South, Warri North and Warri South-West as part of a series of town halls across the senatorial district.

“Dr. Austin Orette will hold talks with leaders and stakeholders on March 27, 28, and 29 in Owhelogbo , Ozoro, Oleh and Patani”  a statement released by the Director of Communications, MediaGate Nigeria, Henry Ebireri said.

Orette declared his intention to contest for the Delta South Senatorial Seat in the 2027 National Assembly Elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) early 2026.

He outlined a vision focused on using his professional skills to empower constituents and reform governance.

He also vowed to fight for a new constitution that decentralizes power from Abuja and empowers local citizens.

His platform includes setting up digital libraries, retraining artisans (welders, carpenters, and mechanics) with modern tools, and encouraging vocational education.

Titled "The way forward", the Statement said Dr Austin Orette would shed light on healthcare, education, and legal reforms in Nigeria.

“Dr Austin Orette intends to introduce modern equipment and extension services to make the senatorial zone self-sufficient in food production.” 

According to Ebireri, a wide demographic of Delta South residents, including students, market women and government officials are expected to gather in Patani on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Orette, who recently promised a more active, service-oriented leadership, is expected to have a strong crowd response from stakeholders in Warri, Koko, Ogbe-Ijoh, Burutu and Bomadi.

“The town hall is significant as a chance to hear Dr. Austin Orette talk in person.”

The statement urged Delta South stakeholders to attend the town hall meeting. 

“The good people of Delta South will get to know Dr Orette and what he actually stands for. We believe by going out to hear Dr Austin Orette speak, people will get a better understanding that he is dedicated to what he’s talking about. Dr. Austin Orette genuinely wants to better Delta South and he believes that his policies are the way forward.” 

’The statement said the floor would be opened up to questions and comments from the constituents. 

“It is also an opportunity for the stakeholders to voice their own opinions and be better represented. Constituents will have the opportunity to hear from Dr. Austin Orette and participate in a question-and-answer session”  the statement added.

Credit: Henry Ebireri Ovie

 

 

2027: Okpe Union Gives Condition To Support Tinubu, Oborevwori, Others

  ....Warns Against Blind Support For Political Parties, Candidates

 

....Says Politicians behind Underdevelopment of Okpe Kingdom

 

Okpe Union on Tuesday emphasized that growth and development would continue to elude Okpe Kingdom unless the people stop blind support for political parties and candidates.

 

“We call on all Okpe nationals to vote for only candidates that subscribe to the 14 points Okpe Nation Agenda. Blind support for political parties and candidates since 1999 has failed Okpe Nation in all indices of growth and development.”

 

The Union also advised Okpe nationals to register and obtain their permanent voter’s card (PVC).

 

“It is time to reclaim Okpe Nation for the growth and development of Okpe land.”

 

In a statement on political participation by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union Worldwide, the Union vowed to support only candidates committed to the actualization of the 14 Points Okpe Nation Agenda.

 

“Okpe Union, like other responsible ethnic organizations, will only endorse candidates for elective offices who subscribe to the 14 Points Okpe Nation Agenda.”

 

The statement signed by Okpe Union President General, Prof Igho Natufe and National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Victor Oruno called on Okpe nationals to assess all prospective candidates for the presidency, vice presidency, governorship, the National, Assembly and the State Assembly of all political parties before casting their votes in 2027.

 

“As we enter the season of another election cycle in Nigeria, we expect politicians to be flocking town and village halls distributing cups of rice, beans, wrappers, etc to buy the votes of Nigerians, including Okpe nationals. This is an opportunity for critically minded Okpe nationals to assess all prospective candidates – for the presidency, vice presidency, governorship, the National Assembly, and the State Assembly – of all political parties before casting their votes in 2027. Therefore, we call on Okpe nationals to begin the process of assessing the performances of current incumbents and prospective candidates of all political parties not through the prism of political affiliations, but on the basis of individual candidate's suitability.”

 

The union identified the development and sustenance of Okpe identity as a distinct ethnic nationality, concern over the threat of extinction posed by Okpe language, the need to teach Okpe Language in all primary and secondary schools in Okpe land, the restoration of Okpe language news broadcasts on the state owned television and radio stations, postgraduate scholarship funds, the ploughing of ten percent of funds accruing from oil firms donations to Sapele and Okpe Local Government Councils into an Okpe Scholarship Fund and the establishment of a Board of Trustees to manage the scholarship fund as key elements Okpe must address in order to facilitate the rebirth of the Okpe Nation.

 

“The Okpe Nation Agenda derives from the communiqué of the Okpe World Conference held in Sapele on November 17 – 19, 2006 organized by the Okpe Voice. It gave rise to the renaissance of Okpe identity as an ethnic nationality.  In fact, it also derives from the coronation brochure of HRM Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, which recognized Okpe as a distinct ethnic nationality. The Okpe Nation Agenda, as expressed in the communiqué of the 1st Okpe World Conference, was approved by HRM Orhue l and his Palace Chiefs on November 20, 2006, at a meeting with the delegates of OKPE VOICE, which included the leaders of the Okpe Union Nigeria, Okpe Union of North America, and the Okpe Union UK Branch.”

 

The union also listed the conversion of the Sapele Technical College to a polytechnic, involvement of Okpe in state and national politics, periodic meetings between elected Okpe leaders and the Okpe people, the establishment of an Okpe Leaders Forum or Leaders of Thought, empowerment of Okpe women, establishment of an Okpe Monitoring Board and the twinning of Okpe towns with major roads and cities in Europe and North America as a way of attracting foreign direct investment to Okpe land.

 

Credit: Prof Igho Natufe,  Okpe Union President General

 

 

Maritime workers Union Shipping Branch Elects Unit EXCOs at Onne

 

By Bon Peters

 

The Maritime Workers Union Shipping Branch, Onne, Rivers State has elected new executives that will pilot the activities of the shipping branch units for the next four years.

 

The election which took place last week Wednesday, March 11, 2026, underscored the determination of the various units to champion the cause of the affiliate members of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria for their betterment.

 

The election which was conducted by the District Chairman shipping branch of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria Comrade Nwawueze Raymond under the watchful eyes of delegates, sister associations, independent monitors among others was devoid of rancour and acrimony.

 

Addressing the various units comprising West African Container Terminal (WACT), Brawal Shipping, Maesk Line and CMA CGM, Comrade Nwawueze said the essence of the unit election was in fulfillment of the wishes and aspirations of the National President, MWUN shipping Branch, Comrade Abass Olufemi and constitutional obligation of the union to elect the executives that will act as ambassadors and ensure discipline, commitment, diligence and professionalism  among members while maintaining a cordial relationship with both the management, the branch executive. 

 

He described the elections as divinely orchestrated while assuring a level playing ground for all the contestants.

 

 "This election will be free, fair and credible and will be by open - ballot" Comrade Nwawueze assured.

 

"Nobody will be short-changed and whoever emerges today, will be the wishes and aspirations of  all the unit members" he insisted.

 

 He urged both the contestants and voters to conduct themselves well insisting that the election was not a do or die affair as losers today might be winners  tomorrow.

 

Comrade, Nwawueze, also applauded the managements of West African Container Terminal (WACT) Brawal Shipping, Maesk Line and CMA CGM shipping for creating an enabling environment for the workers to participate in the election even as he pledged to continue the robust synergy and collaboration existing between the workers and the management, noting that the trust reposed in his District by the National executive led by Comrade Abass Olufemi would not be taken for granted.

 

However, after the exercise which was conducted through open- ballot voting and some positions like the WACT Vice Chairman, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary which were keenly contested and winners emerged, others were returned unopposed in all the units.

 

The following officers according to report emerged as winners:

 

 West African Container Terminal (WACT):

 

Comrade  Laaka Solomon  (Chairman), comrade Seleka Sotonye  (Vice Chairman), comrade God Knows. M. Itelima (Secretary), comrade Kingsley Osaroeke (Assistant Secretary) and comrade Gilbert Dumdibabari Chris (Treasurer). 

 

BRAWAL Shipping:

 

Comrade Mathew Emmanuel (Chairman), comrade Henry Emordi Atashia (Vice Chairman), comrade Daju Emmanuel (Secretary), comrade Osadebe Azubuke (Assistant Secretary) and comrade Aliu Adolphus (Treasurer). 

 

CMA CGM Shipping:

 

Comrade Akomas Dikachi (Chairman), comrade Okagha Ebere (Secretary) and

 Comrade Opus Lilian. (Treasurer). 

 

Maersk Line:

 

Comrade John Nedum  Osakwe ( Chairman), comrade.Sampson Gbeneteh Jimmy (Vice Chairman),  comrade. Ogobue Happiness Ogochukwu (Secretary) and comrade. Blessing E. Lawrence  Ita (Treasurer).

 

Speaking to Journalists on the sidelines of the election, comrade Laaka Solomon the newly elected chairman of West African Container Terminal (WACT) Unit said he was grateful to God for making the day a reality. 

 

He scored the Election  high even as he commended the District Chairman Comrade Nwawueze and his executive for conducting what he described as a  free, fair and transparent election.

He said his motivation to contest is to ensure that workers welfare is the utmost priority of the management of WACT which he said is a Multinational Company.

 

“I will leverage on my  District executive to ensure that those of us working with WACT gets what is rightly due for us."

 

"I will also continue and sustain the cordial working relationship between my management and the Union members here at WACT."

 

"This election today is for the welfare of all hence, I therefore call everybody to come together, let's move the WACT Unit of the maritime workers Union forward."

 

He added that to him "It was a new dawn"

 

Other units’ chairmen have also expressed their gratitude to the District Chairman and his executive thanking them for making a bold statement by conducting the election. They pledged their loyalty to them, the management and to the workers they are representing.

 

Commenting on the election, the Branch Manager Onne, Port Harcourt CMA CGM Nigeria shipping Ltd, Yvonne Odiete said she was happy with the outcome of the election.

 

She described her workers as a team and family even as she hinted at the support the union is rendering to make sure that they prioritize the work.

 

"We work together here as a family. I appreciate the support of the union in making sure that we prioritize the work" Odiete said 

 

Speaking further, she added, “One of them while making a speech said without work there will be no Union, I like people with such mind sets and what happened today is a good job. Yes, the election went successfully without bad report."

 

She promised the management's readiness to support, insisting that the union and the management would continue to work together for a common goal.

 

"I am also proud to say that without them, there will not be management." We will continue to work together to achieve our desired goals" she vowed.

 

The high point of the election was the swearing-in ceremony of the elected officers by the District Chairman MWUN District Shipping branch, Onne Port Harcourt Comrade Nwawueze Raymond.

 

Present at the election include, Vice Chairman MWUN District Shipping branch Comrade Gordons Braid, District Secretary, Comrade Asito, Precious, Treasurer Comrade Paul Otogboro. NEC Member, Comrade Godfrey Nkpornwi. Others include the immediate past District Chairman MWUN, Comrade Tonye Paul Worika and Chairman NAGAFF Onne, Dr. Ike Okechukwu among others.