Reports
We’ve given too much to North who takes without please & thank you —Annkio Briggs
Human and environmental activist, Mrs Annkio Briggs has lamented the current state of the Nigerian nation where her region, the Niger Delta is giving too much to the country but getting nothing but devastation and ruin in return.
She regretted that the Niger Delta region has “given too much to a country and region that is prepared not to give anything and quite unbelievably believes it is their right to take without saying please and thank you”.
She therein restated her commitment to free her region from the Northern oligarchs that have kept fending off the call for a restructured Nigeria that will allow for fairness, equity and justice.
Read below full text of her speech at the event:
Before l start l want to acknowledge that most argument in favour of restructuring is captured in the paper of H.E. Atiku Abubakar on the rights for the citizen to agitate peacefully for restructuring, restructuring will allow each state and region to develop at their own pace this is what we in the Niger Delta have ever asked for.
On the question of where is the future of oil is sad for the Niger Delta who have given away 87 % of our oil, only to hear today that we may not get to use oil for our own development as Nigeria will use the last drop to quickly diversify for Nigeria and most likely against us. Our % may be less than 13% eventually.
No matter how difficult it has been over the years that we are here shows some still believe that there is hope for Nigeria; the question is HOW.
On the 14 of June 2016 Sylvester Ugwuanyi of the Daily Post reported that Prof. Itse Sagay the Chairman of the Presidential advisory Committee Against Corruption faulted Nigeria saying that Nigeria is operating a unitary system of government which he says is affecting the states.
In my view the states are affected negatively that each region ought to enjoy a measure of autonomy in true federalism (and we know Nigeria claims to be a federal state.)
The Professor emphasised on this point by expressing the need for the 1999 Constitution to be amended to reflect Nigeria’s historical development, Prof Sagay disclosed that the independence and autonomy of the regions were destroyed by the military government in 1966.
Prof Sagay stated that the country’s federalism is too centralised and impeding the development of the country, and that the states in Nigeria are placing too much burden on the Federal government.
In my opinion if there is a burden on the FG it is self-inflicted. As federation in truth does not allow you to take 100% of the resources of a section of the country and share it unequally giving the owners less.
Prof. Sagay further stated that “Nigeria has deviated from an ideal federalism because of over centralised institutions.
The over-centralisation is why we are calling for the practice of federalism that Nigeria claims to be and for restructuring.
A few Nigerians who benefit from the status quo want it to remain, and pretend not to know or understand the definition of Federalism and Restructuring.
Well if they truly don’t know we the people must tell them.
The people particularly of the Niger Delta region agree with Prof Sagay when he says that ” there should be respect for the nationalities and the basis of our association should be explained”
This is what we in the NDSDM mean when we say if Nigeria wants us to continue we must agree on the terms.
The Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s conviction that Nigeria is not a nation but a mere geographical expression, remains true today as when he said it decades ago, as Nigeria till date can’t show her nationhood or desire to build a nation.
The few Nigerians strangulating Nigeria are not God and therefore cannot speak nationhood into existence, we all have to discuss it into existence and work together in the framework of justice and equality to keep Nigeria alive.
Under regional government of the past, before the military periodic interference in the process of democracy, the regions as we all know, but for some people who pretend not to know and want to rewrite our history, Sagay said the regions – North, East, West and later Mid-West – kept 50%, central government 20% and 30% went to the centre pool to be shared by the states.
He stated that ideally Lagos State should control Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, of course the same goes for Calarbar, Warri, Burutu, Port Harcourt and Onne ports.
He claimed that Nigeria is the only Federal Republic without a State police.
These are some of the basis of the call for restructuring.
It is the refusal and resistance to the long term clamour of the people for Nigeria to live up to its name federal republic of Nigeria that have lead to the call for restructuring, and even the call for referendum.
At the 23rd Anniversary of the annulment of the June 12 1993 Presidential elections the Gov. Of Lagos state Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode represented by SSG Lagos State Tunji Bello said and l quote:
“We must ensure that we install a viable federalism in Nigeria, that is the only way to build and enjoy our democracy as well as honour the memory of Late MKO Abiola.”
We in the Niger Delta agree with the former military Governor Lagos state, that practice of true federalism is the solution to the challenges facing the country. Whatever that is happening in the country will not stop until we go back to the build a Federal Nigeria
Federalism, Restructuring, Referendum, Self-Determination or even Secession are what they are; they mean what they mean. A few Nigerians deceive themselves in an attempt to deceive all Nigerians that they mean different things to different people, no they don’t.
CONCLUSION
The answer to Nigeria’s problems is Restructuring, Federalism, Referendum, Self Determination which l emphasis is not TO BREAKAWAY FROM NIGERIA, though only to the extent that restructuring means, Liberty, Equity and Justice through unadulterated and pure Federalism-
A Politically, Economically and Socio-culturally restructured Nigeria should give us what is lacking today in governance – accountability, ownership of all aspects of their country states and regions.
Not the current unitary-federalism Nigeria have operated for 50 years.
POLITICAL RESTRUCTURING
It is no longer acceptable that 2 regions North and South Protectorates amalgamated in 1914 on equality and justice, decades after and using the military the North ends up with 19 states, 419 LGAs, 53 senatorial seats and 191 House of Reps seats.
The South ends up with 17 States, 357 LGAs, 51 Senatorial Seats, 169 House of Reps seats.
This political injustice, and inequality guarantees our extinction and perpetual oppression and we will no longer accept it.
ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING
1900 till date the south have been providing for the north economically the proofs of this statement are contained in the records of the Annual report of the colonies.
These records predate the amalgamation of 1914 that gave birth to pre independence Nigeria till independence.
These records shows that between 1900 to 1913 the north was in deficit, while the south was in surplus.
That the north was receiving Grant-In-Aid from the Imperial Treasury & Southern Nigeria to Northern Nigeria.
Political advantage have been used against the south by the north as stated above to share the resources the resources of the Niger Delta.
By states allocation the 19 states of the north receive 57% of what they bring 0%.
The 419 LGAS of the north receives 55%.
The 17 southern states receives 43% of what they bring.
The 355 LGAS of the south receives 45%.
BREAKDOWN OF THE CONTRIBUTIONS FROM OIL AND GAS FROM THE SOUTH OF NIGERIA TO FEDERATION ACCOUNT
South East – 2.7%
South West – 3.95%
South South – 91.54%
From national Bureau of statistics
Almost 13 years ago Niger Deltans partnered with (BFIG) bid and won the sale of the Akwa Ibom-based Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ASCON).
Once it became clear that Niger Deltans were involved in the business the sale was frustrated and after several years in court, and despite 3 Supreme Court judgements and orders, the Nigeria state have refused to hand over the company.
The company has capacity to create over 3500 direct and indirect jobs.
Consequently we continue to lose faith completely Nigeria as even Supreme Court judgement/ orders can’t give us equity and justice.
The economic oppression and deprivation is clearly demonstrated to the extent that nearly 90% of the privately owned oil blocks of the Niger Delta are owned by people from the north.
SOCIO-CULTURAL RESTRUCTURING
The fiercely on going invasion of our farmlands, kidnapping of farmers, traditional rulers, raping of women old and young, taking over and destruction of schools and churches by Fulani herdsmen, have negatively impacted our sociocultural rights and live as provided for Under the various UN instruments and the African charter on human and peoples’ rights.
The political, economic and sociocultural oppression, deprivation, and neocolonialism must stop through total and holistic restructuring
*****Our people are fast coming to the conclusion that despite nonviolent and violent attempts at getting justice and equity in the past, several dialogues, and the various accompanying reports, despite several visits in the past and the recent visits and the promises of licenses, cleanup of environmental spills, meetings with politicians, elders, traditional rulers, youths, etc.
We are no closer to the truth and Liberty, Equity and Justice we so desperately desire and must have.
******Over the past 20 years we have requested and demanded for several changes we have been denied all; we have to get or we will take.
SOLUTIONS
I propose that we give ourselves a timeline of no more than 12 months to arrive at:
a. the 6 geopolitical zones to have equal representations at the National Assembly.
b. the 6 geopolitical zones own, control and manage their resources, paying tax to FG.
c. the ports in the Niger Delta should be managed by the state, and the federal government manage the immigration and customs.
The higher tariffs imposed on ports in the Niger Delta is to impoverished and discourage importers from using the ports in the south, the major importers and exporters of products and goods into Nigeria are the South Easterners, and the nearest ports to them are in the South South yet they are made to use the Apapa and Tin can ports by the artificial creation, of bottle necks in the South South ports and higher tariffs on imported and exported goods and products.
d. the herdsmen are private business men, and are not entitled to demand for land from where there is hardly any landmass.
The trekking of cattle and men known for extreme and unprovoked violence is dangerous to Southerners and should be rejected.
e. implementation of the 2014 National Conference report.
If we are one nation as is claimed, then this truth must be told, heard, verified, accepted and we can begin to find the true way forward for the building of the Nigeria nation, where if we are all equal, then respect must be given one to the other.
The position above is the true position of the NDSDM, and has even for over 3 years.
But the Niger Delta Self Determination Movement as of the 28th of June after an emergency meeting stated that it is too late for Restructuring, and have joined the call for a Referendum as it seems that the Federal Government seems bent on not listening to the long term frustration, anguish and pain of the peace-loving and patience people of the South.
We truly believe we have over the past 100 years given too much to a country and region that is prepared not to give anything and quite unbelievably believes it is their right to take without saying please and thank you.
Despite the purposeful misrepresentation of my promotion of liberty, equity & justice for all not only for my region and people allow me to once again state my unapologetic desire for liberty, justice and equity, will benefit all not only my state, region or south of Nigeria but all states, regions and north of Nigeria.
We all have resources to own, control and pay taxes to FG!
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(DDM) – A dramatic scene unfolded in Aku community, Imo State, as a family burial turned chaotic over allegations of financial settlement demands by the deceased’s first son.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the first son, identified as Uzoma Nwawere, reportedly blocked the burial of his late mother, insisting that his married sisters and their husbands must “settle” him before interment could proceed.
The incident occurred at the family compound where a large crowd gathered for the ceremony, only for the event to descend into confusion.
Eyewitnesses said Uzoma argued that his late mother and sisters had allegedly disrespected him while she was alive, depriving him of the recognition traditionally accorded to a first son.
A retired police officer at the scene narrated in Igbo that the deceased’s husband, Godwin Nwawere, had passed away earlier, leaving behind Uzoma as the first son and several daughters now married into different families.
The officer alleged that Uzoma had lived in the family compound for years, claiming he was left to fend for himself “on credit” while his sisters enjoyed better treatment.
He accused the daughters of conspiring with their late mother to undermine Uzoma’s status as heir to the family property, a situation that allegedly fueled tensions even before her death.
Reports indicated that Uzoma insisted the burial could not hold in the family compound, which he now claims as inheritance, unless his in-laws complied with his demands for settlement.
A viral video from the scene showed mourners and family members exchanging heated words near a freshly dug grave as light rain drizzled over the area.
In the footage, relatives and sympathizers were seen pleading with Uzoma to allow the burial to proceed, but he reportedly stood his ground.
The argument quickly attracted onlookers, causing embarrassment for the family and disrupting what was expected to be a solemn ceremony.
Cultural analysts say disputes over inheritance and burial rites are common in parts of Igbo land, particularly when tensions exist between sons and married daughters.
They note that first sons traditionally hold significant authority in family affairs, including burial decisions, but such authority can spark conflicts when perceived to be misused.
Social media reactions to the incident have been mixed, with some condemning Uzoma’s action as insensitive, while others argue that cultural norms were ignored by the deceased’s daughters.
As of press time, it was unclear whether the burial was eventually completed or postponed, as efforts to reach the family for clarification were unsuccessful.
(DDM) – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of thirty-six suspected internet fraudsters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the anti-graft agency.
The sting operation reportedly took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at various locations within Port Harcourt.
According to EFCC officials, the arrests followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to widespread internet-related fraud.
Authorities disclosed that the crackdown was part of ongoing efforts to curb cybercrime in Nigeria’s southern region.
Recovered items from the suspects included exotic vehicles, a Q-link motorcycle, and several high-end mobile phones.
Laptop computers reportedly containing incriminating documents were also seized during the coordinated raid.
EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the scale of the fraudulent activities uncovered.
The suspects are expected to face charges in court as soon as preliminary investigations are concluded.
The anti-graft commission maintained that no one would be spared in its fight against cybercrime and financial malfeasance.
Background of EFCC’s operations
The EFCC has intensified its clampdown on internet fraud across Nigeria in recent years.
In 2024, the agency recorded multiple arrests in Lagos, Abuja, and Benin City as part of its cybercrime crackdown.
Cybercrime, popularly called “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has continued to tarnish the nation’s international image.
According to law enforcement data, billions of naira are lost annually to internet scams originating from Nigeria.
Experts link the rise of internet fraud to unemployment, economic hardship, and greed among youths.
EFCC has repeatedly urged young Nigerians to explore legitimate sources of income rather than resort to fraudulent schemes.
Port Harcourt under spotlight
Port Harcourt, a major commercial hub in the Niger Delta, has seen a surge in cybercrime activities in recent years.
Authorities believe the city’s thriving nightlife and influx of oil wealth make it a hotspot for fraud syndicates.
Previous raids in 2023 and 2024 led to the arrest of over 150 suspects, with many facing prosecution.
The EFCC warned that more sting operations would follow as part of its ongoing anti-fraud campaign.
Conclusion
The latest arrests signal a renewed drive by the EFCC to dismantle cybercrime networks across Nigeria.
The agency has promised to release further updates as investigations progress and suspects face legal proceedings.
News
Anambra Govt Arrests, Beats Up 18 Journalists Monitoring Senatorial Bye-Election
By Chuks Collins, Awka
The Anambra State Government has reportedly arrested eighteen journalists, who were touring electoral Wards and communities of the 7 Councils that made up the Anambra South senatorial zone where the bye-elections were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Our correspondent reported that the journalists were arrested and detained at gunpoint by the operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service, generally known as Udo-Gachi.
The journalists had gone to Nnewi, in Nnewi North, as well as Ukpor, Osumenyi, Ezinifite, Amichi and other communities in Nnewi South LGA of the State to monitor proceedings in the bye-elections.
The journalists, it was learnt, were rushing after the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, for his remarks on the day’s process after covering the day’s proceedings.
At a spot, described as Eke Orsumenyi, they were jolted when their vehicle was forcefully stopped.
They were, thereafter, detained for more than three hours, allegedly on the orders of the State ‘s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Gilbert Ibezim, according to the security operatives.
“Journalists are the problem of Nigeria, they write whatever they like and deceive the people.
“We will deal with you people today,” an overzealous Udogachi operative threatened the journalists.
Some of the journalists and their cameramen were arrested and detained by the vigilante goons.
The journalists include correspondents of The Guardian, Daily Independent, Authority Newspaper, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Arise TV, TVC, National Vision and National Daily newspapers.
The leader of the over one hundred vigilante operatives who kept surging in with about 20 vehicles said that the arrest was on the instruction of the Anambra State Deputy Governor.
As the altercations continued, the Deputy Governor, in company of Nnewi South LGA Mayor, arrived the scene and ordered a thorough search of the media practitioners.
Information of the development later got to the APC gubernatorial candidate in the November 8 Anambra State governorship election.
Prince Ukachukwu quickly arrived the scene and ensured that the detained journalists were released, insisting that they we’re merely doing their normal civic duties.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the collation of the bye-election in the seven local government areas that constitute the Anambra South senatorial zone.
(DDM) – Popular Nollywood actor Segun Remi, widely known by his stage name Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 72.
The news of his death was confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post on Friday morning, though details surrounding the cause of his passing have yet to be disclosed.
Chief Kanran was a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his distinctive style, sharp humor, and commanding presence that endeared him to audiences over several decades.
He was recognized for his memorable performances in numerous stage plays and films, often portraying authoritative and affluent characters, and was considered a household name in Nigerian cinema.
Segun Remi began his career in the arts in the mid-1970s and gained popularity with notable roles in Ola Rotimi’s play “Kurunmi,” and the Lagos Television drama “Aláàfin Kanran” in 1988.
His extensive filmography includes several acclaimed Yoruba films such as “Vigilante,” “Ose-Sango,” “Eri Okan,” “Itunnu,” and “Orire,” among others.
Despite his success, Chief Kanran faced significant personal challenges, including devastating fire incidents that destroyed his home, studio, and equipment, which left him struggling and at one point homeless.
His contributions to Nollywood have been widely celebrated, with colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a veteran actor who left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry.
This news comes as the Nollywood community recently mourned other actors, adding to the list of notable film personalities who have passed away this year.
Chief Kanran’s legacy as a pioneer and beloved actor will continue to be remembered by fans and the wider film fraternity.
In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the convictions of three internet fraudsters following a sweeping operation at a hotel located within the precincts of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) complex in Abeokuta.
The operation, which initially saw 93 suspects apprehended, has shone a spotlight on the rising tide of cybercriminal activities in high-profile Nigerian locations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes in the country’s digital age.
The suspects, Isaac Akinwale, Ibrahim Azeez Olatunji, and Habeeb Oladipupo Oshundairo, pleaded guilty to an array of charges linked to false pretence, identity theft, and illicit acquisition of funds, contravening provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and the EFCC Act, 2004.
Presiding over the proceedings as a vacation judge, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu handed down measured sentences designed both as punishment and deterrence, reflecting the seriousness with which the judiciary views such offences.
EFCC operative Umar Shuaibu revealed that Isaac Akinwale operated a celebrity scam on WhatsApp under female pseudonyms, defrauding a victim of $500.
The court accepted multiple exhibits tendered by prosecution counsel Franklin Ofoma, including a 2007 Toyota Camry, a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, and a N400,000 bank draft, as proceeds and instruments of crime.
Justice Dipeolu sentenced Akinwale to three months imprisonment or an alternative fine of N1million.
Olatunji, convicted for running a romance scam, was sentenced to one month imprisonment or a N500,000 fine.
Oshundairo, who posed as an expert in service certificates and tax preparation through a fraudulent Gmail account, was ordered to perform 30 days community service.
His punishment is publicly symbolic: he must carry a banner with the cautionary message, “Cybercrime Does Not Pay. Stay Away from Cybercrime”.
In a notable twist, fourth defendant Onunoye Fawas Olamilekan entered a not guilty plea to charges of impersonating a nurse on Facebook and controlling $50 acquired via fraudulent transactions.
His counsel disputed the validity of the charges under the Cybercrimes Act, prompting the court to remand him at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further trial in October 2025.
The EFCC had flagged a total of 23 suspects for arraignment, but only four were accommodated by the court during its session, indicating broadening investigations and prosecutions may follow.
This operation marks one of the EFCC’s largest anti-fraud sweeps from a single Nigerian location in recent memory.
The prominence of the Obasanjo Presidential Library as the scene of the arrests dramatically heightened public awareness, raising questions about the security and due diligence in hospitality establishments across the country.
Nigerian authorities continue to escalate efforts against cybercriminals, aiming to assert the rule of law over digital spaces.
The EFCC, empowered by the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and other statutes, urges citizens to remain vigilant online and to report suspicious activities.
With growing internet adoption in Nigeria, law enforcement faces an evolving battle against increasingly sophisticated scams, making deterrent convictions like these a critical step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
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