PRESS RELEASE BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE My dear Rivers People, I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history. Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty. We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State. Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else. This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition. Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court's judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy. These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State. Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult. Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people. Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch. At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive. We have always been resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process. God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS

Biblical Igbo Traditions Before Christianity: A Look at Our Heritage Long before Christianity found its way into Igboland, our ancestors practiced traditions deeply rooted in spirituality, morality, and communal living. Interestingly, many of these customs bear striking similarities to biblical teachings, showing that the Igbo people have long upheld values of purity, respect, and accountability. Here are some fascinating examples of how Igbo traditions align with biblical principles: 1. Nso Nwanyi (The Sanctity of Womanhood) In traditional Igbo society, women separate themselves during their menstrual period, refraining from cooking for their husbands or entering certain spaces. This practice still exists in some communities today, particularly in traditional settings. For example, before entering the palace of the Obi of Onitsha, a woman is asked if she is on her period. If she is, she must wait outside. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Leviticus 15:19-20 – “When a woman has her monthly period, she remains unclean; anyone who touches her or anything she has sat on becomes unclean.” 2. Ala Obi (The Sacred Ancestral Land) In Igbo culture, ancestral land (Ala Obi) is sacred and must not be sold. It represents family heritage and is passed down through generations. Selling it is seen as a betrayal of one’s lineage, often leading to ostracization by the community. 🔹 Biblical Reference: 1 Kings 21:3 – “I inherited this vineyard from my ancestors, and the Lord forbid that I should sell it,” said Naboth. 3. Ikuchi Nwanyi (Levirate Marriage) Traditionally, when a man passed away, his widow could marry his brother. This practice, aimed at protecting the widow and keeping family ties strong, was common in Igboland and still exists in some rural areas. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 25:5 – “A widow of a dead man is not to be married outside the family; it is the duty of the dead man’s brother to marry her.” 4. Igba Odibo (The Apprenticeship System) The Igbo apprenticeship system (Igba Odibo) is one of the most effective wealth-building structures in Africa. A young boy works under a master for several years, learning a trade or business. In the final year, the master sets him up with resources to become independent. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Exodus 21:2 – “If you buy a Hebrew slave, he shall serve you for six years. In the seventh year, he is to be set free without having to pay anything.” 5. Iri Ji (New Yam Festival) Yam, the king of crops in Igboland, is celebrated annually in the Iri Ji festival. Traditionally, the first yam is offered in thanksgiving before the people eat from the new harvest. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 16:9-10 – “Count seven weeks from the time you begin to harvest the crops, and celebrate the harvest festival to honor the Lord your God, by bringing Him a freewill offering in proportion to the blessing He has given you.” 6. Ibe Ugwu (Circumcision on the Eighth Day) In many Igbo communities, male infants are circumcised on the eighth day after birth—a practice that has remained consistent for generations. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Leviticus 12:3 – “On the eighth day, the child shall be circumcised.” 7. Omugwo (Postnatal Care for New Mothers) After childbirth, an Igbo woman receives care from her mother or an older female relative during a period known as Omugwo. During this time, the new mother is not expected to do any strenuous work but is nurtured while she recovers and bonds with her baby. 🔹 Biblical Reference: Leviticus 12:1-4 – “For seven days after a woman gives birth, she is ritually unclean as she is during her monthly period. It will be 33 days until she is ritually clean from the loss of blood.” What This Means for Us Today These traditions remind us that the Igbo people had a structured, God-fearing society long before foreign religions arrived. While modern influences have altered some of these practices, the values behind them—respect, purity, accountability, and thanksgiving—remain relevant. As we embrace the present, let’s not forget the wisdom of our past. Our ancestors lived by principles that upheld the dignity of family, community, and spirituality. These values, deeply embedded in our culture, continue to shape who we are. 🔹 What are your thoughts on these traditions? Do you see their relevance in today’s world? Share your insights in the comments!

Happy Birthday to Our Esteemed CEO - Jacob Brakere Abai Today, we celebrate an exceptional leader, Jacob Brakere Abai—a publisher of repute, a media strategist, a voice for the Niger Delta, and the driving force behind GbaramatuVoice International. As the CEO/MD, you have redefined indigenous journalism, amplifying the stories that matter and giving a platform to the unheard. You are the Pen of the Creeks, the Voice of the Voiceless, the Media General, the Master Strategist, the Bridge-Builder, the Chronicle of Our Time, the Unshakable Pillar of Truth, and the Pathfinder of Modern Media. Your vision, resilience, and dedication continue to redefine storytelling, amplifying the narratives that matter. You have built a platform that not only informs but also inspires and empowers. From all of us at GbaramatuVoice, we honor you today and always. May your wisdom, strength, and passion continue to guide us to greater heights. Happy Birthday, Our Boss, Our Leader, Our Inspiration! #HappyBirthdayJacobAbai #ThePenOfTheCreeks #VoiceOfTheVoiceless #MediaGeneral #GbaramatuVoice