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Social Action Demands Transparency, Accountability From NDDC, As It Resists Attack
The Non-governmental Organisation, NGO, Social Action has once again call on the Niger Delta Develpment Commission, NDDC’s to be transparent and accountable now, saying that the NDDC decried Social Actions;s jingle is an Intimidation Tactics employed to ‘smother the voices of the Niger Delta People’.
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This is contained in a press release signed by Botti Isaac, Programs Coordinator, Social Action and received by Informavores!.
The statement further said that stopping the Social Action’s jingle for addressing the rampant corruption within their institution is an unacceptable attack on our civic freedoms.
The statement said, “Social Action soundly rejects the attempt by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to silence public discourse, as evidenced by the NDDC’s recent demand to cease broadcasting Social Action’s radio jingle on Independent Radio 89.7 FM, Abuja.”
“In a letter dated July 5, 2023, the NDDC decried Social Action’s jingle for addressing the rampant corruption within their institution. Let us be clear: “This is an unacceptable attack on our civic freedoms and a blatant attempt to smother the voices of the Niger Delta people, who have long borne the brunt of impoverishment and gross underdevelopment, despite the region’s rich resource endowment and the establishment of a Commission designed to foster its progress”, said Isaac Osuoka, Director of Social Action.
“Social Action’s radio program, “The Voice on NDDC,” is committed to promoting robust discussions about accountability within the NDDC. Our aim is to intensify civic actions that drive transparency and ensure the Commission provides inclusive services. Our mission is not to smear the Commission but to expose the stark reality of its operations.
“We have tirelessly extended invitations to both the NDDC and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to participate in public discussions aimed at boosting accountability within the NDDC. These overtures have been consistently ignored. The NDDC’s sudden interest in its public image, despite its persistent apathy towards public engagement, is a cause for concern. When dialogue is shunned, the public has every right to form opinions based on the facts at hand.
“We are hopeful that the new management has the capability to correct the myriad of issues plaguing the Commission, as revealed by previous investigations carried out by the executive and legislative arms of the Nigerian government. However, hope is not a strategy. We call on the new management to demonstrate their commitment to reform by enhancing the Commission’s public image through transparent and accountable actions rather than attempting to manipulate public opinion.
“While we acknowledge the NDDC’s concern, we adamantly refuse to be silenced or have our civic space diminished. We insist the NDDC management take our requests for dialogue seriously and actively engage with media and civil society organizations to better fulfill their mandate.
In a letter addressed to the Managing Director, 89.70FM Indepenedent Radio Abuja and sighted by Informavores, the NDDC had request immediate ceasation of a defamatory jingle or face court trial. the letter read:
“At or about 7:25am at the 23rd day of June 2023 and on subsequent days, you transmitted on your 89.70 FM Independent Radio Abuja a jingle blatantly imputing corruption and unwholesome practices to the NDDC”
“The jingle complained of took beyond reasonable context, proceedings at the House of Representatives during a public hearing in August 2020 involving the Commission by repeatedly saying the following words: corruption in NDDC off your mic”
“The natural and ordinary meaning of the said words is defamatory of NDDC as they connote that the Commission is enmeshed in corruption and corrupt practices; that the Commission misapplies resources allocated to it and should not be in existence by reason of that. The harm to the reputation of the commission by the said words is further aggravated by the fact that the light against corruption is on the front burner at this time and your station has wide coverage. You have been broadcasting the jingle at peak listening periods every day over the years as we have come to understand and with consequent incalculable damage to the reputation of Niger Delta Development Commission. You have als brought the staff to adium and approbrium by reason of your broadcast”
“The purpose of this letter therefore is to DEMAND as follows:
- That you CEASE AND DESIST immediately from further broadcasting the offensive words.
- That you send a written confirmation to the Commission that you have pulled down the offensive jingle within 7 days if this letter”
“TAKE NOTICE that in the event of your failure, neglect and/or refusal to accede to the demands here above the Commission will in addition to lodging a formal complaint to the regulatory authorities, file a suit against you seeking for damages and perpetual injunction”
“Please accept the assurance of our highest regards”
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New Year: Gov Ododo Calls for Unity, Commitment to Security of Lives, Properties
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state has called for Unity of the people in complementing government’s efforts to tackle rising insecurity in the state.
The Governor also solicited people’s support through hard work, and sustained patriotism as his administration intensifies efforts to deliver people-oriented governance.
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Ododo who made the call in his New Year message to the people of the state, thanked Almighty God for protection and guidance throughout the past year, noting that the period tested the resilience of the people but also strengthened their collective resolve.
The Governor said that despite challenges, the state recorded modest but significant gains across key sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment, attributing the progress to discipline, unity of purpose, and the cooperation of citizens.
According to him, the New Year presents renewed hope and a stronger resolve by his administration to do more through prudent resource management, inclusive governance, and policies aimed at improving the quality of life of the people, expanding opportunities for youths, empowering women, and strengthening the state’s economy.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed that security remains a top priority of his government, assuring residents of deeper collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to sustain peace across the state, stressing that meaningful development can only thrive in a secure environment.
He called on all Kogites to continue to reject division and embrace cooperation, describing the state’s diversity as a strength that must be harnessed to build a Kogi that works for everyone, both in urban and rural communities.
Reiterating his pledge to serve with integrity, transparency, and compassion, the Governor expressed optimism that the New Year would usher in shared prosperity and greater accomplishments for the state.
Governor Ododo also urged continued support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the President’s reforms have strengthened the economy and expanded resources available to sub-national governments for development.
He wished the people of Kogi State a peaceful, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year, while praying for continued progress for the state and the nation.
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One Community, One Honour: Item Okpi Kingdom Celebrates Prof. Arunma Oteh’s Global Legacy
By Abdulrahman Aliagan,
The ancient town of Item in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State was agog on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, as the Item Development Association (IDA) Incorporated trustees hosted the 2025 Item Day Celebration, a historic edition specially designed to honour a single, outstanding personality — Chief, Prof.
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The celebration, held at the playground of Akanu Item Primary School, Akanu Item, was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, clergy, captains of industry and sons and daughters of Item from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Themed “Building a Greater Item Through Collective Action: The Work Continues,” the 2025 Item Day marked a significant departure from previous editions that featured multiple awardees. This year’s event was deliberately structured around a single award and traditional honour, in recognition of Prof. Oteh’s exceptional contributions to the growth and development of Abia State, Nigeria, Africa and the global community.
A major highlight of the event was a Grand Civic Reception in honour of the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, whose presence further underscored the importance of the occasion.
At the ceremony, the Item Development Association formally presented the Item Grand Merit Award to Chief Arunma Oteh, OON, describing her as a worthy daughter of the soil whose global achievements have brought immense honour to Item Okpi Ancient Kingdom, Abia State and Nigeria at large.
The award plaque cited her “distinguished leadership and transformative contributions to global development and in appreciation of the great honour this has brought to our community.”
Prof. Oteh was also specially celebrated for her consistent role as a global ambassador of the Amaba-Ukwu Item community, projecting its image positively across international platforms. This singular contribution, the organisers noted, was a key reason she was singled out for the prestigious award.
The event was chaired by Chief Ojay Obasi Eke (Udoka), with Chief Chukwuemeka Ogwo, MBA (Ugwuchukwuemere I of Item) serving as Co-Chairman.
Other dignitaries present were Hon. Dr. Ibekwe Nnamdi Chimdi, Member representing Bende North Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly; Hon. Okwu Ukoha, Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly; and Hon. Uwabunike Bassey, Executive Chairman (Mayor) of Bende LGA.
Traditional blessings were led by the Royal Father of the Day, HRH Eze Jerry Akpala Igwe (JP), Chairman of the Item Traditional Rulers Council, alongside HRM Eze Silas Okafor Igwe (JP), the Okpi of Item, and other royal fathers.
Religious leaders, including His Grace, Dr. Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, Archbishop of Umuahia, also offered prayers for the community and the awardee.
The newly conferred Nwanne Ukwu Di Na Mba of Amaba-Ukwu Item, Abia State, Alhaji Chief Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, congratulated Prof. Arunma Oteh on the well-deserved honour.
He described her as a pride of Item and a shining example of what dedication, integrity and excellence can achieve, noting that her global impact has placed Amaba-Ukwu Item firmly on the world map.
He prayed for greater strength and wisdom for her to continue serving humanity and inspiring future generations.
In her acceptance speech, an emotional Prof. Arunma Oteh expressed profound gratitude to the Item Development Association, the people of Amaba-Ukwu Item, the traditional institution, the Abia State Government and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the programme.
She pledged to continue projecting the image of her community globally, describing the honour as a renewed call to service.
Prof. Oteh urged sons and daughters of Amaba-Ukwu Item, Abia State and Nigeria at large to embrace courage, resilience and hard work, stressing that “the sky is only the beginning of success for those who dare to dream and work relentlessly.”
She thanked Governor Alex Otti for his support for community development initiatives and commended the leadership of IDA for sustaining the vision of unity, selfless service and progress captured in the association’s motto: “Faith in God and Selfless Service to Our People.”
A Historic Item Day led by Dr. Cyril Onyekachi O. Kalu, President of IDA, and Ambassador Dr. Anthony Chukwudum Okorie, Chairman, Board of Trustees, the 2025 Item Day Celebration has been widely described as historic — not only for honouring one of Item’s most illustrious daughters, but also for reaffirming the community’s commitment to collective development and global relevance.
For many attendees, the celebration was more than an award ceremony; it was a statement of identity, pride and a renewed resolve to build a greater Item for generations yet unborn.
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Ilorin Emirate Professors’ Association reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling the sacred responsibility of guiding society
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Ilorin Emirate Professors’ Association has reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling the sacred responsibility of guiding society with wisdom, fairness, and truth.
This is contained in a communique issued at the end of the 7th Annual General Meeting of the Ilorin Emirate Professors Association (IEPA), in the Kwara State capital city of Ilorin.
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The Guest Lecturer, former Minister of External Affairs and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, delivered a compelling lecture that set the tone for robust discussions on how academia can effectively contribute to good governance at local, national, and global levels.
The AGM had observed that “much of the high-quality research generated within Nigerian universities remains confined to academic journals and library shelves, failing to influence public policy and the socio-political landscape.”
It further revealed that “a significant gap exists between academic institutions and government agencies, limiting the integration of scholarly expertise into governance frameworks and policy formulation.”
“Current university curricula focus primarily on technical proficiency, with insufficient emphasis on democratic governance, civic responsibility, and ethical leadership.”
“Despite Nigeria’s abundant intellectual capital within universities, there is a lack of structured mechanisms to channel academic findings into actionable governance solutions.”
“The academia has often remained disconnected from the practical struggles of citizens and the complexities of statecraft, diminishing its relevance and transformative potential.”
concluding its observation by saying that, “Academics must serve as the “intellectual conscience” of the nation by holding leaders accountable through rigorous data analysis and unbiased research.”
The AGM produced the following recommendations based on the presentations, discussions, and deliberations as follows:
*To Academia* :
Professors and researchers should move beyond theoretical discourse to provide evidence-based solutions to Nigeria’s pressing governance challenges.
Academic institutions must prioritise the mentorship of future leaders, instilling in them ethical standards, patriotic duty, and commitment to good governance.
Universities should reform their curricula to integrate principles of democratic governance, civic responsibility, and ethical leadership, making classrooms “laboratories for democracy.”
Scholars should actively work to translate research findings into actionable policies and governance frameworks that promote accountability, transparency, and inclusive development.
Academics should assume their responsibility as the intellectual conscience of the nation, holding leaders accountable through data-driven analysis and constructive criticism.
To Government and Policymakers:
Government agencies at all levels should establish formal partnerships with universities to tap into academic expertise for policy formulation and implementation.
Increased funding should be provided for research that addresses national development challenges and governance issues.
Government should create institutional frameworks that enable academics to serve as policy advisors and technical consultants in relevant sectors.
To University Administrators:
University management should actively seek partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organisations to enhance the relevance of academic work.
Universities should create reward systems that encourage faculty members to undertake research with practical applications to societal challenges.
The Association resolved to “Constitute a committee on “Good Governance and Citizens’ Civic Rights: under the chairmanship of Professor Hassan Saliu. This committee will organise symposiums, forums, town halls, and other platforms for public dialogue on citizenship education, good governance, and national unity.”
“The Association reaffirms its commitment to promoting love, peace, and unity among scholars from the Ilorin Emirate, eschewing divisive tendencies and the pull-him-down syndrome.”
“The Association will establish regular forums for knowledge exchange between academia, government, and the private sector to bridge the knowledge-policy gap.”
“Members of the Association will commit to producing periodic policy briefs on critical national issues for dissemination to relevant government agencies and stakeholders.”
“While advocating for genuine university autonomy, the Association recognises that such autonomy comes with the responsibility to remain relevant to societal needs and challenges.”
“The Association will partner with civil society organisations and government agencies to promote civic education and democratic values across communities in the Ilorin Emirate and beyond”
in conclusion, The Ilorin Emirate Professors’ Association reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling the sacred responsibility of guiding society with wisdom, fairness, and truth.
The Association pledges to work assiduously toward bridging the knowledge gap in governance and positioning academia as a functional engine for national transformation and sustainable development.
The Ilorin Emirate Professors’ Association held its 7th Annual General Meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State, with the theme “The Roles and Responsibilities of the Academia in Good Governance.” The meeting brought together distinguished scholars, academic leaders, and stakeholders committed to advancing the role of higher education in national development and governance.
The event that was attended by eminent personalities saw the representative of the Emir of Ilorin, Balogun Alanamu Dr. Usman Abubakar Jos; the first professor from Ilorin Emirate, Professor Saka Nuru; and other eminent professors of Ilorin Emirate origin from local and foreign universities in attendance.
As part of the AGM activities, a scholarship award was presented to 20 deserving undergraduate students from various universities across the country, from the five local government councils within the Ilorin Emirate, comprising Ilorin West, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Asa, and Moro. Each awardee received a bank cheque of N100,000. This scholarship award has been sustained since its inception in 2022. The presentation was done by the representative of the Emir of Ilorin, Balogun Alanamu, Dr. Usman Abubakar Jos.
The Association expresses profound gratitude to Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, Guest Lecturer, for his insightful and thought-provoking presentation;
Professor AbdulGaniyu Ambali, Chairman of the Governing Council, Kwara State University, Malete, for chairing the occasion and his wise counsel;
His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, for his continued support and patronage of scholarly endeavors;
Professor Saka Nuru, the first professor from Ilorin Emirate and our BOT Chairman, for his support;
And all members, guests, and participants who contributed to the success of the 7th Annual General Meeting.
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