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Wakirike National Congress, #30 Freetown Street, Port Harcourt (2026)

A Pan Socio-Cultural Organization of all Wakirike People established to promote sustainable peace, unity, progress, and our rich cultural heritage and diversity under God

08/09/2026

Wakirike National Congress (WNC) Mourns The Okrika Tragedy: Demands Thorough Investigation

The Wakirike National Congress (WNC), the apex socio-cultural organization of Wakirike people worldwide, received with profound shock and sorrow the tragic events that occurred at Okari Jetty in Okrika in the early hours of thursday, September 3, 2026...

07/09/2026

PRESS STATEMENT

Wakirike National Congress (WNC) Mourns The Okrika Tragedy: Demands Thorough Investigation

The Wakirike National Congress (WNC), the apex socio-cultural organization of Wakirike people worldwide, received with profound shock and sorrow the tragic events that occurred at Okari Jetty in Okrika in the early hours of thursday, September 3, 2026.

Given the several conflicting reports currently in circulation, we are unable to confirm the exact circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident. We await official communication from the relevant authorities. As of the time of this release, the death toll is estimated at over 47, with many others in critical condition

On behalf of the entire Wakirike Nation, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities. This immeasurable loss is a devastating blow to our people. We stand in solemn solidarity with our grieving mothers, fathers, and children. May the souls of the departed find eternal rest.

To this end, we call on the relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action, as follows:

1. The Rivers State Government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Nigeria Police Force must initiate a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this tragedy, including the exact circumstances, cause of deaths, and make their findings public. The people of Okrika deserve nothing less than the truth.

2. Urgent and comprehensive medi- care must be provided to all survivors, many of whom remain in critical condition.

3. Adequate compensation and long-term support including educational trusts and livelihood restoration must be extended to the families of the deceased as a matter of justice, not charity.

4. NNPCL and all relevant agencies must immediately secure all pipelines and facilities in the area to prevent any recurrence of such a catastrophe.

5. Finally, the federal and state governments must confront the root causes of this cycle of tragedy by addressing unemployment, poverty, and the systemic lack of opportunities in Wakirike lands through genuine investment, inclusive development, and lasting economic empowerment.

We appeal for calm and restraint as we pursue justice through lawful and peaceful means. We will not relent until the truth is uncovered and all those responsible are held fully accountable.

The Okrika tragedy is a national disgrace. For six decades, the Niger Delta has powered Nigeria's economy, yet our people remain trapped in poverty and despair. Our sons do not have to risk death merely to feed themselves. It is time for Nigeria to do what is right and proper.

Once again, our sincere condolences to the affected families. We will not be silent. We will not forget.

David Solomon
Chairman,
Incorporated Trustees

Prince John Opuogoloya
Secretary,
Incorporated Trustees

For and On-behalf of
Wakirike National Congress (WNC)
September 3, 2026.

11/04/2026

Wakirike Nation bids farewell to His Majesty, King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V. Treaty
King, Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Opobo Kingdom

On behalf of the Wakirike Nation, the Wakirike National Congress expresses profound sorrow and deep
gratitude as we bid a final earthly farewell to His Majesty, King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki (V)Treaty
King, enduring pillar of Niger Delta Royalty, and a cherished ally to our people.

Your Majesty walked the ancient paths of our Ijaw forebears with wisdom, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to peace and unity between Opobo Kingdom and Wakirike Nation. Your reign was distinguished not merely by the authority of the crown, but by the strength of your character as a bridgebuilder and unifier.

As you are called to join your ancestors, we give thanks for a life devoted to fostering harmony, healing divisions, and upholding the honour and dignity of the Opobo throne. You reminded us that the rivers between our peoples are not barriers, but lifelines, binding us together in shared heritage and common
destiny.

You stood as a steadfast voice for the voiceless, a defender of the rights of oil-bearing communities, and a leader who bore the responsibilities of kingship with grace and compassion.

The Wakirike National Congress stood with you as kin, learning from your example and cherishing your legacy of justice, cultural
pride, and brotherhood.

Now, as the drums of Opobo fall silent and the tides of the Bonny River echo your memory, we commend your noble soul to the eternal assembly of our ancestors. May the spirits receive you with the honour
befitting your life and reign.

Rest in peace, King Jeki (V), Natural Ruler, Treaty King, and true friend of the Wakirike Nation.Your Majesty, may your journey to your fathers be peaceful and eternal.

Signed:
Mr. David Solomon,
Chairman, Incorporated Trustees of Wakirike National Congress (WNC),

Mr. Ipiribo-Ofori John Opuogulaya,
Secretary, Incorporated Trustees of Wakirike
National Congress (WNC),

For and on behalf of the Wakirike Nation.

19/02/2026

Tribute to Hon. Justice Obietonbara O. Daniel-Kalio, PJCA, DSSRS, OFR.

The Wakirike National Congress (WNC), the apex socio-cultural organization of the Wakirike people, on behalf of the entire Wakirike Nation, extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Lordship, Hon. Justice Obietonbara O. Daniel-Kalio, PJCA, DSSRS, OFR, on the occasion of His Lordship’s graceful retirement from the Court of Appeal of Nigeria.

With profound gratitude and deep admiration, we celebrate the successful and meritorious completion of Your Lordship’s distinguished service on the appellate bench. Your remarkable journey from the historic shores of Wakirike to the exalted seat of justice at the Court of Appeal stands as a towering testament to divine grace, steadfast diligence, and an unassailable strength of character.

For decades, Your Lordship adorned the robes of justice with rare dignity, unimpeachable integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Your judgments have transcended the mere interpretation of statutes; they have enriched Nigerian jurisprudence, safeguarded the rights of the vulnerable, and upheld the sacred principles of fairness, equity, and justice. In a profession often confronted by immense pressures, you stood resolute; an enduring beacon of honour whose hands remained clean and whose conscience is unblemished.

As a Justice of the Court of Appeal, Your Lordship bore the solemn burden of finality with wisdom, restraint, and a deep consciousness of the far-reaching consequences of judicial pronouncements. In serving the Federal Republic of Nigeria, you equally served the broader cause of humanity, bringing lasting honour and distinction to the Wakirike Nation.

To us, you are far more than a retired Justice. You are a revered elder statesman, an exemplary role model, and a living testament to what our people can achieve through discipline, faith, and fortitude. Your life and career stand as a clarion call to our youths to aspire beyond perceived limitations and to believe that the highest pinnacles of national service are attainable.

As Your Lordship lays down the gavel and enters a well-deserved retirement, we pray that Almighty God grants you many more years in sound health, abiding peace, and continued fulfilment. May the legacy of your service endure through generations, and may your wisdom and counsel continue to illuminate our path in this new chapter.

The Wakirike National Congress and the entire Wakirike Nation remain immensely proud of you, now and always.

David Solomon
Chairman, Incorporated Trustees of Wakirike National Congress (WNC)

12/02/2026

INVIOLABILITY OF OUR TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS

The Wakirike National Congress (WNC), the apex socio-cultural organization of the Wakirike people, has observed with profound dismay and grave concern a disturbing trend whereby political actors and partisan groups increasingly attempt to drag the revered names and exalted offices of our Traditional Rulers into the murky waters of partisan politics.

This practice is not only inappropriate; it is an affront, a profound disrespect, and a blatant violation of our sacred customs and traditions.

To this end, the Wakirike National Congress (WNC) issues this firm and unequivocal declaration that our Traditional Rulers are the sacred custodians of our heritage, culture, and identity. They are the unifying symbols of our people and the living embodiments of our collective dignity, history, and continuity. Their royal stools are altars of tradition, not political platforms. Their esteemed voices must never be manipulated, appropriated, or misrepresented for transient political gains.

We sternly warn all individuals, groups, and political organizations not to mistake the warm hospitality, wise neutrality, and dignified restraint of our Royal Fathers for weakness or consent. Our innate receptiveness as a people and the accessibility of our fathers must not be misconstrued as an invitation for political exploitation.

To imply the endorsement, opposition, or legitimization of any partisan agenda by the name or office of any Wakirike Traditional Ruler is a direct insult to the entire Wakirike nation.

We hereby warn all political entities to conduct their campaigns with the highest degree of respect and integrity, scrupulously avoiding any action or insinuation that entangles our Traditional Institutions. Our palaces are sanctuaries of culture and wisdom, not arenas for political contest.

Let it be clear that Wakirike people stand united in solemn resolve to protect the dignity and reverence of our Royal Fathers. We shall employ all legitimate, culturally, and lawful means to resist, condemn, and hold accountable any person or entity that attempt to belittle or drag our revered Kings into the fray of partisan politics.

Our tradition is sacred. Our Kings are revered and well respected. This line must not and will not be crossed.

31/01/2026

REACTION BY WAKIRIKE NATIONAL CONGRESS TO A PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT MADE BY CHAIRMEN OF OKRIKA AND OGU/BOLO LGAs AMONGST OTHERS IN VARIOUS RADIO STATIONS AND SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS INVITING THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON BEHALF OF WAKIRIKE ETHNIC NATIONALITY TO OGU FOR AN ALLEGED CIVIC RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY

The attention of WAKIRIKE NATIONAL CONGRESS the apex social, political and cultural organization of the Wakirike people has been drawn to a paid public announcement made by some persons on various radio stations and social media platforms wherein the general public is invited on behalf of the Amayanapu, Alapus and good people of Wakirike Ethnic Nationality to an alleged Grand civic reception for the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja – His Excellency, Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike at Ogu and hereby reacts as follows:

That the said announcement does not have the authority and consent of the Amayanapu (Kings) of Wakirike Ethnic Nationality as alleged, as there was no time to the best of our knowledge, the kings, Chiefs and People of Wakirike Ethnic Nationality resolved to organise such a reception in the name of Wakirike Nation or any other name as it reflects the collective interest of the Wakirike people home and abroad as wrongly put out by the said announcement.

The Wakirike National Congress has painstakingly consulted the traditional institution as ably represented by our kings and have found out as a fact that their consent was not given in that regard, therefore, the alleged grand civic reception or any other event cannot be organised under the auspices of Wakirike Ethnic Nationality.

While there is respect for rule of law and freedom of association and expression, the Wakirike nation holds in reverence her culture and customs and as such that the organisers of the said civic reception should have boldly organised such an event with the right expression and impression.

Based on the foregoing, on behalf of the Kings and the good people of Wakirike ethnic nationality in the four (4) Local Government Areas of Okrika, Ogu/Bolo, Port Harcourt, Etche and those in diaspora, we inform accordingly that the Wakirike Ethnic Nationality did not authorize and/or consent to such reception on its behalf and the general public is hereby advised accordingly.

Signed:
Mr. David Solomon
Chairman, Incorporated Trustees of Wakirike National Congress (WNC)

John Opuogulaya
Secretary, Incorporated Trustees of Wakirike National Congress (WNC)

For and on behalf of WNC and the Wakirike Ethnic Nationality

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