Gist, Ground Floor(Inside) Development House, #50 Ikwerre Road,by Access Bank, Mile 1, Diobu, Port Harcourt,Rivers State, Nigeria, Port Harcourt (2026)

12/09/2025

OMOKU MOTORCYCLISTS STAGE DEMONSTRATES AGAINST INSECURITY AT COUNCIL GATE

Commercial motorcycle riders have barricaded the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Council gate in protest against the alarming rate of killings and frequent theft of motorcycles in the area, calling on the council to take immediate measures to safeguard their lives and property.

According to Gist Report, three commercial motorcyclists were allegedly killed by unknown assailants in Omoku last night, who also stole their motorcycles. This emerging trend, which some attribute to Hausa/Fulani scavengers, is a grave allegation requiring special investigation to verify.

With the recent inauguration of the new LGA Boss, actions are anticipated to address the insecurity, as local vigilantes are committed to securing their territory.

09/08/2025

ENFORCERS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE PRESENTS A NOVELTY FOOTBALL MATCH IN HONOUR OF PBAT

02/08/2025

HOPE FOR ALSCON

Aluminun was widely recognised as on one of the most cartelized industries in the world. After the cold war, there was a mad rush by the world powers to control strategic minerals in the world. The world powers tried to build their economies through the control of the life - long infrastructures and minerals, especially crude and aluminium.

Russians identified 12 strategic minerals of the world. They assembled team of entrepreneurs; notable among them was UC Russel, with a mandate to study world aluminium production and consumption. Having lost the opportunity to acquire and lease lands in countries with huge deposits of bauxite. The Russians entrepreneurs and technocrats came out with a strategy to acquire all aluminium plants around the globe and voted out fund for it's actualization. The Russians set up an agenda to buy and confiscate aluminium production plants and infrastructures as their global asset.

At a time when the price of aluminium was up to $2000 per tone, they were still releasing below 10% of their production to the global aluminium market. At that $2000 per tone aluminium plant in Russia was producing 100% of their full capacity. These imply more jobs in Russia and less jobs and under-development in Africa. They refused to use the full capacity of aluminium production globally. They tried to shut down aluminium plants in Africa by corrupting the government officials and dominating the supply and keeping production quantity at the level they want while using Africa to determine the price of the production in global market.

The ripple effects of this trend on nation economies vary; for the developed countries like Russia it meant job, progress and political advantages over rival nations. For developing countries like Nigeria, it meant exploitation, pollution and destruction of our way of life and economies. The extraction of bauxite a mineral found mostly in the developing countries has been profitable to the growth of Multinationals corporation leaving behind a trouble culture and negative environmental legacy. Russian as a global actor in aluminium production, supply and demand has influenced the interaction of aluminium global market forces, enthrenching Russians aluminium oligarchy and dominating the key aluminium players in the world.

That was the ordeal of Aluminium Smelting Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) of Ikot Abasi, a lifelong aluminium plant duely bidded and won by BFI Group under the chairmanship of Alabo Dr Reuben. Mietamuno Jaja. BFI Group was one of the two core investors interested, in acquiring the 77.5 percent Federal Government equity in the $3.2 billion plant. Having gone through rigorous litigation, the Supreme court still ruled in their favour as the valid winner of the bid. The federal government of Nigeria and its Bureau for Public Enterprise (BPB) has openly sabotage the economics of our nation through a grand conspiracy with foreign collaborators against the interest of Niger Delta people.

Ikot Abasi the host community of ALSCON is now a ghost of itself. The ones vibrant economic hub is devoid of business including Banks. Aluminium Smelting Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) have the potential of providing 1500 Nigerians with direct employment and saving the nation over $16 billion from importation for local production aluminium products annually. In the view of this political strangulation and economic stagnation, there is hope that in the not too distant future, our dream of having ALSCON producing at its full capacity, employing our teaming youth and developing our communities will be realized.

https://gistreports.com/post-details.php?id=2025080204291194629

01/04/2025

Opobo Youths Resolute Against Fubara's Suspension, Call for Peaceful Resolution

The President of the Opobo Youths Forum (OYF), Mr. Moses William-Pepple expressed dissatisfaction with the suspension of Rivers State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof Ngozi Ordu as well as members of the state House of Assembly following the declaration of state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu.

Reacting to the sad development in his office at Opobo Town on Sunday, William-Pepple said his sentiments resonate not only with the youth of Opobo Kingdom but also reflect a broader concern among the youth across the state.

“We’re not happy with the way the suspension came. It was unwarranted to just suspend a democratically elected governor,” William-Pepple stated during an interview.

He emphasized the importance of democratic processes, referencing Section 305 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the conditions necessary for declaring a state of emergency.

“Up until the time the President announced the state of emergency, Rivers State was still peaceful,” he noted.

William-Pepple articulated a collective worry for the governor’s safety, referring to him as a brother and a son to the people of the state.

“This is a governor that is liked by everybody,” he remarked, stressing the need for Rivers people to ensure his protection during these tumultuous times.

The OYF leader urged the youth to remain vigilant and not to be swayed by political maneuverings.

“The youths should not allow politicians to use them. They should stand their ground and demand what is right,” he advised, calling for unity and peaceful advocacy for democratic values.

As William-Pepple called for a reevaluation of the President's actions, he reminded the leaders that fostering peace should be the priority.

“At this point in time, he should come in as a father and foster peace,” he urged, advocating for the reinstatement of the suspended governor, deputy governor, and House of Assembly members as a path forward.

31/03/2025

BAL5 - BAL is here again
Check out our full schedule for the Kalahari Conference 2025.

29/03/2025

Urgent Appeal to ECOWAS for Independent Investigation into Rivers State Crisis

To the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS),

We, the Greater Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation (GODO), a non-governmental organisation championing good governance, development, and advancement in Nigeria, and protecting the rights of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora, urge you to establish an independent investigation into the recent attacks on oil facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria, which led to the declaration of a State of Emergency in the state.

The people of Rivers State, particularly the Ogoni community, have suffered greatly due to the destruction of oil facilities, which has disrupted economic activities and put the lives of innocent citizens at risk. It is imperative that we get to the bottom of these attacks and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

As a critical member of ECOWAS, Nigeria is bound by the decisions of the organization. We appeal to the ECOWAS Commission, particularly the Department of Human Rights, Democracy, and Good Governance, to take decisive action in this matter. This department is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights, preventing and resolving conflicts, and ensuring compliance with international treaties.

We urge ECOWAS to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attacks, identify those responsible, and recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future. We also call on ECOWAS to ensure that the human rights of all individuals affected by the crisis are respected and protected.

Furthermore, we appeal to ECOWAS to take a strong stance against any actions that may be deemed as a political coup d'état or an attempt to undermine democratic governance in Nigeria. The ECOWAS Treaty and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance must be upheld and respected.

Greater Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation (GODO) also urges the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to compel President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately reinstate the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State. The governor's suspension from office and replacement with a sole administrator is deemed a political coup by GODO. The organization asserts that the grounds for the governor's removal are fundamentally flawed and do not align with Nigerian laws or international best practices. GODO believes this action is a politically motivated maneuver aimed at suppressing opposition voices in Nigeria. As a regional organization, ECOWAS plays a vital role in promoting democracy, good governance, and human rights in West Africa. GODO calls on ECOWAS to take decisive action and ensure that the democratic will of the people of Rivers State is respected.

We count on ECOWAS to demonstrate its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and good governance in West Africa. We urge you to take immediate action on this matter and establish an independent investigation into the attacks on oil facilities in Rivers State.

Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter.

Sincerely,

Chief Ambrose Kii
Leader, Greater Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation (GODO)

29/03/2025

Fubara's Kinsman Denounce the Suspension of Democratically Elected Officials

The Vice Chairman of Opobo Council of Chiefs, Alabo Edwin Cockeye Brown has joined the chorus of voices calling for an immediate end to the suspension of democratically elected officials in Rivers State.

The Opobo chiefs Council's vice chair who was speaking on the sidelines at an emergency stakeholders' congress of the INC held at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa on Wednesday, emphasized the gravity of the suspension of a state governor, deputy and legislators, characterizing it as an unprecedented assault on the democratic process.

He argued that suspending an elected governor and the state legislature not only undermine the mandate given by the electorate but also poses a significant threat to the political stability of the state. Brown further declared the suspension as "an aberration and travesty of the constitution."

His words, "Even though the Nigerian Constitution grants the President powers to declare a state of emergency under Section 305, it does not authorize the suspension of democratically elected officials, such as governors or members of the legislature. The proper procedure for removing a governor is outlined in Section 188 of the Constitution, which requires legislative processes rather than executive fiat".

Brown went on, "The unconstitutional suspension of democratically elected government officials is a Slowly but surely dismantling of democratic structures. This will not help our fledgling democracy, but will destroy all the gains so far made in this democratic dispensation".

"This is not just about Governor Fubara; it is about every citizen of Rivers State who participated in a democratic election," he stated. He added, "Injustice in Rivers State is injustice all over Nigeria because we are all governed by one constitution."

He expressed concern that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in the electoral system and democratic institutions across Nigeria.

He further articulated the historical context of the Ijaw struggle for
representation, highlighting the community's long-standing grievances
regarding political marginalization.

"For over 24 years, we have fought to regain our rightful place in governance," Brown remarked. "To have that struggle undermined by a unilateral decision from the federal government is not just
frustrating—it is an affront to our identity and aspirations as Ijaw people."

Brown called for a united front among Ijaw leaders and communities,
urging them to resist any attempts to divide or silence their voices.

He underscored the importance of dialogue and reconciliation as vital
pathways to resolving the ongoing crisis, rather than resorting to forceful measures that could exacerbate tensions. "We must engage with
the federal government, but we will do so on our terms," he insisted.

In closing, Brown reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of
justice and equity, emphasizing that the Ijaw people would not back down in their quest for recognition and respect.

"We are prepared to stand firm and advocate for our rights. Our
history is rich with leaders who have fought for us, and we will not
allow their sacrifices to be in vain," he concluded, rallying support
for a peaceful resolution that honors the democratic process and the will of the Rivers people.

The high-profile one-day stakeholders’ meeting brought together
influential Ijaw leaders, including Bayelsa State Governor, Douye
Diri, his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; former Rivers State
Governor and Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff; former Rivers Governor, Chief Rufus Ada-George; and former Bayelsa Deputy
Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah.

Also in attendance were the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of
Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta
Forum (PANDEF), Dr. Boladei Igali; prominent traditional rulers from
various parts of Ijawland; the President of the Ijaw Youth Council
(IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri and many other notable Ijaw leaders from across the Niger Delta.

29/03/2025

EX-RIVERS HEAD OF SERVICE FORCED INTO SUBMISSION—WIFE CRIES OUT

Mre. Florence Nweke, wife of the former Rivers State Head of Service, Mr. George Nweke, has raised the alarm over what she describes as the intimidation and abduction of her husband, allegedly to coerce him into making a statement against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

In a video making rounds on social media, a visibly shaken Mrs. Nweke alleged that her husband was pressured into granting a press conference under duress in favor of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and his political camp. She accused Wike’s allies of using threats and force to suppress dissenting voices in Rivers State.

“This is where we have found ourselves as a state—where if it’s not Wike, then the system must be grounded. Anyone who refuses to be used against Governor Fubara is either intimidated, subjugated, or forced into submission,” she lamented.

According to Mrs. Nweke, individuals within Wike’s camp, including Mr. Henry Ogiri, allegedly played a role in the intimidation of her husband. She called for their immediate arrest and a thorough investigation into the matter.

As of press time, there has been no official response from Wike’s camp regarding the accusations.

28/03/2025

The remains of late King GNK Gininwa arrives the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers Secretariat, Port Harcourt.

26/03/2025

POLICE ARREST NDC PRESIDENT OVER PLANNED PROTEST AGAINST TINUBU’S EMERGENCY RULE IN RIVERS

Tensions are rising in Rivers State as police detain the Niger Delta Congress (NDC) President over a planned protest against President Tinubu’s emergency rule.

The arrest, carried out in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, has sparked outrage among activists, who see it as a crackdown on free speech.

The police had initially invited NDC Spokesperson Mudiaga Ogboru but, instead of waiting for him, went ahead to arrest the group’s president.

Ogboru, who received police invitations from both Lagos and Rivers, described the move as intimidation, vowing that Niger Delta voices will not be silenced.

Civil rights groups have condemned the arrest, warning against efforts to stifle dissent in the oil-rich region.

25/03/2025

House of Representatives Advances Bill for Simultaneous General Elections

In a significant move towards electoral reform, the Nigerian House of Representatives has advanced a bill proposing the simultaneous conduct of all general elections, including those for the offices of the President, State Governors, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Area Councils. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere (representing Ideato), Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive, and 34 other lawmakers, successfully passed its second reading during Tuesday's plenary session.

Presented by House Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, the proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to mandate that all general elections occur on the same date, as determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in consultation with the National Assembly. The bill outlines specific alterations to Sections 76, 116, and 132 of the Constitution to accommodate this change.

During the session presided over by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the bill received overwhelming support, passing via a voice vote. Proponents argue that conducting all elections simultaneously will streamline the electoral process, reduce costs, and enhance voter participation.

As the bill progresses, it will undergo further scrutiny and debate in subsequent readings and committee stages before potential enactment. If passed, this amendment could significantly reshape Nigeria's electoral landscape by consolidating the voting process across all levels of government.

24/03/2025

33.5km Elele-Ikiri-Omoku Road, a project initiated by His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, is set to redefine connectivity in the state.

Stretching from Elele in Ikwerre LGA, through Omudioga and Egbeda in Emohua LGA, down to Ikiri and Omoku in ONELGA, this strategic road, awarded to Craneburg Construction Company, is designed for durability and efficiency.

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