In Pictures: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and other dignitaries attended the National Political Consultative Group (North) meeting held on Sunday in Abuja.

The gathering, which took place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, marked the official launch of a political coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

NigerDelta Insider

For many young Nigerians who may not know, Tompolo is not just a name you hear in passing. He is one of the most powerful figures to ever emerge from the Niger Delta, and his story is far from ordinary.

Back in 2005, Tompolo joined the Niger Delta People's Volunteer Force (NDPVF), a militant group that took up arms against the Nigerian Army deep within the creeks of the Niger Delta. After gaining experience and influence, he went on to create his own formidable militia — the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND). Tompolo didn’t just lead this group; he equipped it with weapons and ammunition, commanding thousands of fighters who launched a fierce campaign against oil companies and government forces. They successfully shut down pipelines, crippled oil production, and held control over vast swathes of the Delta’s waterways.

For years, MEND clashed with the Nigerian military, and despite repeated offensives, the army struggled to overcome them. By 2009, the government under President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua decided negotiation was wiser than war. They offered Tompolo and his fighters amnesty, bringing an uneasy peace to the region and allowing oil companies to resume operations.

The story didn’t end there. In 2016, President Muhammadu Buhari tried to revive the crackdown. He ordered Tompolo’s arrest, hoping to finally put an end to his dominance. Once again, Tompolo’s loyal fighters — popularly known as the Egbesu Boys — stood their ground. The conflict dragged on until Buhari’s government was left with little choice but to return to the negotiating table. Eventually, the federal government reinstated a multi-billion naira security contract with Tompolo — a contract that still exists today.

Beyond militancy, Tompolo holds deep cultural influence. He is the high priest and chief worshipper of the river goddess Egbesu, a spiritual figure that many in the region believe protected him throughout his battles.

Despite his reputation and wealth — he is quietly a billionaire — Tompolo remains rooted in the creeks, far from the public eye. He does not parade on social media, nor does he seek online fame. His power lies in action, not talk. When Tompolo makes a move, it’s real, not for show.

This story is public record. It is not hidden, and it speaks volumes about a man whose legacy still shapes the Niger Delta today.

BREAKING: Governor Fubara Returns After Suspension! Spotted at Salvation Ministries in Port Harcourt today for Sunday Service – his first public appearance since the suspension. Is this the start of a new chapter for Rivers State? #RiversState #GovernorFubara #SundayService #PortHarcourt"

In Pictures: Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday paid a visit to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II

"This visit reaffirms my deep respect for the traditional institution and the invaluable role it plays in the governance and stability of our dear state."

NigerDelta Insider

Prophet Jeremiah Heals Woman, Raises N6.1 Million After Husband Rejects Her

A miraculous healing turned into an emotional drama after a woman, once afflicted with sickness, was rejected by her husband despite her recovery.

The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was reportedly healed by Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin during a service at Mercy City in Effurun, Delta State

However, upon returning home, her husband shockingly rejected her, expressing regret that she survived. He went as far as calling her sister to take her away, insisting he would not live under the same roof with her. He also drove her and their children out of the house.

Determined to help, Prophet Jeremiah intervened again during the Cash Inflow Programme at Mercy City on February 28, 2025.

Moved by her plight, he not only prayed for her but also raised N6.1 million to support her. The prophet assured the woman that her husband would eventually come back to beg for forgiveness.

True to his words, during the Sunday service on March 2, 2025, when the money was officially presented to the woman, her husband unexpectedly showed up at the church to plead for reconciliation.

His sudden change of heart sparked outrage among church members, who nearly harassed him for his previous actions. In his defense, the man claimed he did not know what had come over him and promised never to mistreat his wife again.

However, the woman revealed that her husband had shown no concern for her or their children, nor did he even know where they had been staying since he sent them away.

Despite the tension, Prophet Jeremiah urged the woman to forgive her husband and give him another chance.He then presented the N6.1 million to her, securing her financial independence regardless of her decision.

The dramatic turn of events has left many in awe of Prophet Jeremiah’s prophetic declaration and the power of faith

The Chairperson of Bonny LGA in Rivers State, Dame Hon Anengi Barasua Claude-Wilcox, on Wednesday handed over keys of the new Mini Buses to 20 beneficiaries.

The buses were recently procured by the local government for the purpose of easing the challenges associated with mass transportation in the LGA.

NigerDelta Insider

In Pictures: Former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva on tuesday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, at his residence in Abuja

Chief Clark who is the founder of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) died on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97.

NigerDelta Insider

Governor Fubara Funds Metering Project to Boost Power Supply in Five LGAs

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has launched a major initiative to improve electricity access by funding the metering of five local government areas (LGAs) in the State

These LGAs are Eleme, Khana, Tai, Gokana, and Andoni.

This project aims to enhance power supply efficiency and transparent billing.

NigerDelta Insider

Bird's-eye view of Finima community in Bonny Island, Rivers State.

George Osodi

Publicist, Dave of Africa, Weighs in on Lagos State Assembly Crisis, Advises Rivers State on Political Engagement

Port Harcourt-based publicist and media entrepreneur, Owudogu Tuetara Dave popularly known as Dave of Africa, has shared his thoughts on the ongoing political issues in the Lagos State House of Assembly. According to him, while the media has covered the developments extensively, public interest remains low, with Lagos residents showing little engagement in discussions or online debates.

Dave of Africa pointed out that there have been very few press releases from youth groups or political organizations regarding the matter.

He compared this to Rivers State, where political issues often spark widespread reactions, with multiple stakeholders, including activists and politicians, making public statements and amplifying the discourse.

"This is why Lagos continues to appear as if nothing bad is happening, when in reality, many damaging things are taking place," he stated. "The lack of public outcry allows issues to be swept under the rug, creating an illusion of stability while serious problems persist."

He further advised that Rivers State could learn from this approach. While it is important to hold leaders accountable, he noted that constantly over-amplifying political issues could work against the state's image and development.

"Striking a balance is key. Rivers people must ensure that issues are addressed effectively without creating unnecessary panic or giving the state a negative reputation," he added.

Dave of Africa’s perspective highlights a crucial difference in political engagement between the two states and raises questions about how public perception influences governance and accountability.

NigerDelta Insider

16-Year-Old Boy, Ayibanua Timipre, Commits Suicide in Yenagoa

A 16-year-old boy, Ayibanua Timipre, has reportedly taken his own life by hanging himself from a ceiling fan in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Timipre, from Igbomotoru Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, was found hanging in his father's house in Kpansia, with the rope still attached to the fan after his body was taken down.

While the reason for his suicide remains unknown, some residents speculate it may have been linked to punishment from his parents after he allegedly stole ₦27,000 from the house.

Others describe him as a quiet and well-liked boy who was learning mobile phone repair in the community.

NigerDelta Insider

Port Harcourt's most luxurious hotel, Portland Resort, hosted some of the biggest names in content creation for Valentine’s Day.

Among those in attendance were Apam TV, Prophet Rolex, MC Mbakara, and Mark Angel.

Singer Mr 2Much added excitement to the night with performances of his hit tracks.

#NigerDelta Insider