Opinion

The Rise of Benjamin Kalu And Needless Attacks From South East

Published

1 month ago

March 18, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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*By Yemi Itodo*

The name of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Ph.D, LL.D, CFR, is fast becoming a national anthem in Nigeria. The name which sprang up in the wake of 4th Republic in Bende, an ancient town in Abia State, where the young man emerged Chairman of the Council; later became a household name in Abia State, where he served diligently as an Adviser to the State.

As a successful business man who had seen it all, both in Nigeria and abroad, where his network still persists, Kalu had severally, too, attempted to represent the people of Bende at the House of Representatives, but was asked to wait for a particular time. In each of these attempts, the ebullient young man was waxing stronger and deeper into the subconsciousness of the people.

And when the time was ripe in 2019, Hon. Benjamin Kalu eventually marched triumphantly into the People’s House in the 9th Assembly. Like a golden fish which could not be hidden, Kalu was mandated to speak for the entire 360 Members of the House of Representatives and the institution of Parliament, thus, getting the role of an Image Maker and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, even as a greenhorn. That was when Kalu imprinted his name in the national anal of Nigerian politics, shooting himself to limelight and national relevance. He carved a niche for himself in the national and international space and won the hearts of most Nigerians, especially, the people at the centre of gravity of power in Nigeria.

Thus, when an opportunity presented itself for a trusted Pan Nigerian Igbo man to stand as a rallying point of the Nd’Igbo for national cohesion, the name of Benjamin Kalu was not only reverberating, it was also, unknown to many, microwaving at the backend of the critical stakeholders and national leaders. And He emerged Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, beating the imaginations of many naysayers.

That was the genesis of the many troubles that would come after!

First, the people of the South East did not support his ambition. The Ohaneze Nd’Igbo made it emphatically clear, and in fairness to them too, that what the people of the South East needed was a President of the Senate or nothing. They did not want a Speaker or Deputy Speaker position. Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu got his major support and endorsement from the South West, followed by the South South and the North. The South East only lent their support very late, when it was discovered that the rest zones were obviously going to return Kalu as Deputy Speaker, even without their inputs. And Benjamin Kalu eventually emerged the Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, in a unanimous decision of the entirety of the Members of the House.

Hardly had he settled down in his new office, than the Cabals from the East, who believed no one could become anything in Igbo land, except they anoint such a person, started dressing banana peels for the new Deputy Speaker. First, they came in the form of a political opponent of Kalu in the last National Assembly election in Bende Federal Constituency, with all manners of blackmail, including forging the signatures of his opponents on sensitive documents. The Court and Law Enforcement Agents did justice to it.

Since then, the traducers of Kalu have never been in short supply of mischief, blackmail and social media attacks. They have successfully found veritable tools in the hands of risibly looking urchins, masquerading as Civil Society Groups in Abia State and Abuja, with their risible inanity, while some were inordinately recruited to be inaugurating diatribes against the Deputy Speaker on social media and constantly polluting the cyberspace in Abia.

This latest wave may not be unconnected to the imagination that Kalu was coming to contest Abia governorship against Dr. Alex Otti in 2027. But in all, their tergiversation does not escape the censure of discerning observers, especially those who are outside Abia, who notice that their operational tendencies are less pretentious. Those political watchers are not new to the pull him down antics of some Cabals in the South East.

In retrospect, Nigerians are still fresh in memory, of how 5 Presidents of the Senate emerged from the 5 states in the South East, under one President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo from the South West. The baton started with Senator Evan Enwerem from Imo State in 1999, followed by Senator Chuba Okadigbo from Anambra State who concluded the year 1999 and raced it to year 2000, before handing the baton to Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, who narrowly completed the 4th Assembly. In the 5th Assembly, Senator Adolphus Wabara from Abia State started well, until the usual banana peels, which could not be totally detached from his people, fell him in 2005, and Senator Ken Nnamani from Enugu State succeeded him, to round up the tenure of Obasanjo. The relay race would have probably continued, if Nd’Igbo had more than 5 states. The pull him down system would have ensured the next state also got a fair share, then butted out like others.

But not long after then, another man was elected as President of the Senate from the North Central. Senator David Mark did not only complete his tenure as the President of the 6th Senate, he also recorded another successful tenure in the 7th Assembly, making Nigerians believe that it was actually possible for one President to successfully preside over the Senate for a full parliamentary session. This was also made possible as the people of North Central preoccupied their minds with what they could bring to the table for regional and national development, rather than pulling their own down.

But for the fact that Benjamin Kalu enjoys the palatial confidence and has the ears of the President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the fate of the 4th and 5th Senate would have befell him. Also, the calmness, demure, and maturity he has shown in the face of these numerous attacks shows he is a strong leader the South East should be proud of. He has severally displayed courage and bravery in managing most of the difficult times in the parliament. The dexterity with which he carries his legislative duties, as a Presiding Officer is worthy of emulation.

Kalu’s efficiency announced him to Nigerians and the powers that be have found him a worthy patriotic and detribalised Nigerian who has jumped all banana peels from detractors, unprovoked, unperturbed. This, they don’t like, they predicted his failure like others, but he is focused with eyes on the ball. His solid relationship with the President is also very offensive to many. That’s why the gang-ups, akin to what biblical Joseph faced, have been sent to Benjamin Kalu. Daily they dig holes and push him in, but he will always, through his credibility, accountability, hardwork, transparency and abundant grace, find his way out. The next day, they will find another hole, pay the diggers, give them shovels and diggers to make it deeper because for them, if he keeps shining he will outshine them in the future. This is just the simple layman analysis of the many troubles of Benjamin Kalu. They want to deem his light so he won’t be an option when the need arises.

It is also known to many Nigerians that some members of the APC, both in Abia and some parts of South East, are collaborating with the opposing forces in Abia State Government, to strangulate Kalu’s intimidating rising. They feel his towering political and social credentials are detrimental to their tortoise-like and worn-out style of politiking. Unfortunately for them, it appears he was born for this, while they throw stones, he stays quiet, calm and calculative, delivering on his mandate with great emotional intelligence, which is the ingredient that is uncommon amongst the contemporary leaders in Nigeria.

Many had forgotten that Kalu did not become the Deputy Speaker by cheer luck, he emerged through the dint of fervent commitment to the wave of progress in the APC and with unrepentant loyalty to the Asiwaju movement. At a time when it was a haram to mention APC in Igbo land, not to talk of singing Asiwaju, Kalu stood out without pretence, and like John the Baptist, a lonely voice in the political wilderness, he toured the nooks and crannies of the State, canvassing for Asiwaju and his party. He was one of the foremost supporters of Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the South East, when it was tough to mention Asiwaju’s name in Ala Igbo, in the peak of unknown gunmen activities.

Expectedly too, Kalu got his fair share of this support which was against the warnings of the unknown gunmen in the East. They made good their threats by destroying his campaign office and that of the President in his Bende Federal Constituency, with over a hundred bullets. But these did not deter Benjamin kalu from supporting Asiwaju. It is also appropriate to refresh our memory that, at such a time, most leaders in the South East lined up behind the then Senate President, to succeed Buhari; but Kalu decided to be different. Most of these Cabals in the party fighting Kalu today voted against Tinubu at the national convention of APC in 2022, and only nicodemously rejoined the projects when the food was ready.

Also in the 9th Assembly, long before any political movement for the 2023 presidency, Hon. Benjamin Kalu accepted the onerous task of Secretary of Tinubu Ambassadors, in both chambers of the National Assembly, a platform that led many Members and Senators to persuade Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to run for President. His support for the President and his Renewed Hope Agenda is organic, and has been proven by the powers that be. No wonder it was only Kalu that conceived and established a structure known as ‘Renewed Hope Partners’ across the 5 States of South East, over a year ago, long before the Presidency corroborated him and established Renewed Hope Ambassadors across the country.

Thus, one would not be exaggerating to say: His Excellency, RT. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Ph.D, LL.D, CFR, the Utabiri Bende, the Enyi Abia, is the renewed hope of Nd’Igbo!

Recently, Kalu performed magic with his preaching for unity and peace in Abia state and what many thought was impossible was demystified by his leadership skills which brought the party the formidability it needed ahead of the next elections. With the support of the President and the national leadership of the party, APC, the Deputy Speaker organised a hitch-free congress in Abia to the amazement of all. If that is not leadership, I wonder what is!

Since the successful Congress, the attacks on Benjamin Kalu increased tremendously, in an attempt to dwindle his towering political height.

Worthy of note is the major role the Deputy Speaker played in the last FCT Council elections. Just like he promised APC and Nigerians that his south easterners in the FCT would change their voting pattern to support his party, it happened that way, and the APC won overwhelmingly.

As we speak, Hon. Benjamin Kalu is the secretary of the National Convention Election Committee of the APC. Recently, when interviewed, Members of the House of Representatives were full of praises of the way he handles the affairs of the Parliament. The Lawmakers lauded his unmatched legislative acumen and leadership sagacity. They were convinced that Kalu would deliver the elections of the National Working Committee without stress.

His records in the House are amazing and unparalleled – the South East Development Commission he facilitated was a jinx broken after many decades; also, in one single day, the President approved 3 federal institutions for the people of South East – Federal College of Education, Bende, Abia State; Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, Bende; and Federal University Okigwe, Imo State; courtesy of kalu. Just a few days ago, the Deputy Speaker recorded another milestone, when the President signed the Kampala Convention Domestication Bill into law, after waiting from 2009 till date. A big jinx that was broken; many more under his name.

This is the fear of those fighting him. Daily ‘pay and use’ CSOs are rented to malign him in the media. If this is not cyber crime, I wonder what else is. If this is not criminal defamation of character, I wonder what is it. In spite of these, Benjamin Kalu appears resolute and committed to the aspirations of Nd’Igbo, the Renewed Hope Mandate and the Nigerian Project.

But the big question remains – when will the law be activated against these perpetrators and their sponsors, to avoid a situation where the public peace would be affected? How long will the system permit cyber terrorists and hired street urchins, in the name of CSOs to terrorize Public Office Holders? How many more rising stars in the South East will these Cabals hew down? The answers to these rhetorics are very scarce.

Ndigbo should learn from their mistakes of fighting their Senate Presidents and gaining nothing. Fighting the Deputy Speaker now will also fetch them nothing but further alienation. They should rather, rally around a talent spotted by Mr. President, and encourage him to bring more dividends of democracy to Alaigbo. That’s one of the best political strategies for the integration of the South East into the mainstream. There is so much strength, growth, progress and development that come with unity. Let there be peace and unity in the South East.

*(Itodo writes from Otukpa, Benue State, via itodoyemi@gmail.com).*

Opinion

DIAMOND DISTINCTIONS FOR THE PEOPLE’S MAN; DR. CHIDO ONUMAH

Published

5 days ago

April 16, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

Wednesday April 8, a few minutes to six in the evening, while putting final preparations to a three-day trip, the phone beeped. First thought; it could be an advisory from friends or family members on the need for vigilance as a result of the shenanigans perpetrated by notorious bandits on major highways across the country. How wrong! The WhatsApp message was an invite from the irrepressible, inimitable Dapo Olorunyomi – fondly called Dapsy, and Uncle Dapsy by friends, colleagues, and mentees. The carefully worded, simple looking but aesthetically beautiful card was to attend a Symposium in honour of Dr. Chido Onumah; a serial award winner, versatile journalist, rights activist, published author on his 60th birthday. Though the writer does not have any personal relationship with the celebrant, but to have Olorunyomi as the Chief Host speaks volumes about the credibility, integrity, and stewardship of Onumah.

The clash of the timings of both events – Onumah’s and the trip, was not a good discovery by the writer. Thoughts of missing out on an occasion that will see the convergence of heroes and heroines of civil society and journalism; who as true activists and professionals sacrificed selflessly for democracy and good governance in the ’80s and ’90s, was painful. Given the importance of the trip, one had to communicate to Olorunyomi reason for not attending the unique event. Though not physically present, the coverage of proceedings by national newspapers, electronic media, and numerous online media platforms was useful. Perhaps, the choice of a national discourse to celebrate an ideologue who, for over three decades has weaved every of his life odysseys on fairness, probity, justice, ethics, and morality is fitting and proper.

William Shakespeare, in one of his timeless books, ‘Hamlet’ wrote; “this above all, to thine own self be true.” Here, humanity is advised to be honest, truthful, and pursue self-dignity. Indeed, honesty with oneself provides light and equanimity. From the testimonials of people, this encapsulates Onumah; who pursues wholeheartedly whatever he believes in, and stays focused even if he is the last man standing. Conscious that honesty is a wealth that doesn’t wither with time, as it attracts respect, trust, and belief from people, he clothes himself with these virtues which brings greatness. In many ways, his attributes, activities, and contributions to life and humanity confirm Shakespeare’s words in ‘Twelfth Night’ that, “be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” No doubt, with the right attitude, hard work, and fidelity, Onumah has achieved greatness in diverse ways.

From reports, the symposium, themed, “Formation or Nation Building: Nigeria’s Quest for a Modern Federal Republic” which took place at the historical Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, was graced by many notable personalities from the media, academics, public service, and politics from far and near. Comments by many people attested to his unwavering commitment to the attainment of good governance, and unrestrained passion for national development. His loyalty to friendship and relationships were variously highlighted. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, who was the Special Guest of Honour said, “Chido is special and means a lot to me. He was part of my life at the most critical moments, and (he) went through the most difficult period with me.” His Excellency, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State, who chaired the event, acknowledged Onumah’s sacrificial, and consistent contributions to the fights against military rulership, and the country’s struggles for democracy.

Generally described as a people’s man who is largely accessible, reliable, and dependable, Onumah is deeply loved for his courage, commitment, and consistency in pursuing noble causes that will improve the general well-being of the people. Imbued with an uncommon indomitable spirit, he is a perfect exemplar of true social activism built on principles, high moral standards, and selflessness – million miles different from what we have these days. Without a doubt, he remains one of the best, and has carved an enviable niche for himself as the compass for assessing activists in Nigeria. Not driven by pecuniary benefits, showmanship, and human accolades, his penchant for cross-fertilization of ideas, and public discourse; at all times geared towards ensuring national cohesion, growth, and development remains unequivocal. This may have further informed the choice of a symposium to mark his landmark birthday.

Onumah’s professional resume, human interests-driven calling, and development engagements are replete with qualitative services within the country, in Africa, Europe, and the United States of America. As a journalist, though he started out with The Guardian newspapers, Onumah, at various times was at Sentinel Magazine – late Dr. Stanley Macebuh was the Managing Director; The News Magazine; AM News; Thisday Newspapers; Weekly Insight, Ghana, as the Associate Editor; Africanews Service, Kenya; and African Observer, New York, USA. For decades, Onumah has emerged as a prominent figure, and major voice in media and information literacy.

As the Co-ordinator of the African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) – he has been able to promote media literacy to foster democracy, accountability, good governance, and combat misinformation in Africa through research,advocacy, and training programmes. To expand the frontiers of excellence, he co-founded the Media & Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue (MILID) Foundation, with special emphasis on media literacy in governance and education. Through AFRICMIL, and the Yar’Adua Foundation, Onumah launched the Corruption Anonymous (CORA); a whistleblowing platform to facilitate anonymous reporting and bolster accountability in governance.

Given his passion for good governance, Onumah, through the Whistleblowing Advocacy Coalition of West Africa (WACOWA); and the Advocacy for Whistleblowers Protection Laws has covered parts of the continent. Appreciable mileage has been achieved towards regional cooperation on whistleblower protection; adopting the policy as a veritable instrument for exposing crimes; and deepening governance across Africa. Similarly, Onumah’s broad-based advocacy and activism are well documented through his involvement with numerous bodies such as the West African Human Rights Committee (WAHRC); Pan-African Alliance for Media and Information Literacy (PAMIL); Global Alliance for Partnerships on Media and Information Literacy (GAPMIL); Whistleblowing International Network (WIN); United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization (UNESCO); and the Panos Institute, USA.

Indeed, Onumah’s decades-long involvement, contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and the emplacement of probity in the public service deserves mention. He functioned as the Head, Civil Society Unit; and Coordinator, Fix Nigeria Initiative at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), under the Chairmanship of Ribadu. He, among other things contributed to drafting templates that translated international anti-corruption laws into accessible tools for citizens; collaboration with various groups on integrity and accountability; training of journalists in investigative reporting; and workshops for judges, law enforcement agencies, and the media.

His varied contributions to the media, human rights, democracy, and good governance has earned him several local and global recognitions including the Kudirat Initiative for Democracy Awards; William C. Heine Fellowship for International Media Studies; Jerry Rogers Writing Award; and the Clement Mwale Prize for Courage. Despite his busy schedules, Onumah has authored some books including Time To Reclaim Nigeria; Nigeria Is Negotiable; and We Are All Biafrans. Many of his friends, colleagues, and associates applaud his de-tribalized credentials; described as a true nationalist. Born on the 10th of April, 1966, Onumah attended the Army Children School, Apapa; and Awori Ajeromi Grammar School, Lagos. He graduated from the University of Calabar with a B.A Philosophy. He earned his Masters and Doctorate degrees in Journalism, and Communications & Journalism at the University of Ontario, Canada, and the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain, respectively.

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.

Opinion

Why PDP Should Pick Dr Olotu Akpodiete as Candidate for Ughelli North, South and Udu Federal Constituency

Published

6 days ago

April 16, 2026

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By Comrade. Amb Emmanuel Kpoharor_

To secure victory in Ughelli North, South and Udu Federal Constituency, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) needs a tested, grassroots-oriented candidate who has demonstrated real capacity for mobilization, loyalty, and community impact.

As the PDP prepares for the forthcoming House of Representatives election, stakeholders across the three local government areas are calling on the party to field Hon. Dr. Olotu Akpodiete JP as its candidate.

Dr. Akpodiete is widely credited with reviving the PDP in the constituency at a time when mass defections had left the party’s structure severely weakened. He reactivated dormant ward executives, bankrolled logistics for meetings, financed mobilization drives, and spearheaded reconciliation efforts that brought back aggrieved members while attracting new ones across Ughelli North, South and Udu. According to party chieftains, his swift intervention restored stability and re-established the PDP as the dominant political force in the area.

His influence goes beyond party administration. Dr. Akpodiete initiated and personally sponsored the U3 Youth, Women, and Executive Empowerment programme. The initiative has provided startup grants, vocational training, and business support to hundreds of beneficiaries in the constituency. It has been commended for reducing unemployment and boosting household incomes across the three LGAs.

To strengthen political engagement, he also floated two strategic pressure groups: the U3 Media Ambassadors and the U3 Legislators Forum. The Media Ambassadors have expanded the PDP’s message and improved voter education at the grassroots. The Legislators Forum brings together past and present PDP-aligned legislators in U3 to mentor emerging politicians, harmonize party positions, and drive community consultations. Together, the two groups have created a permanent, community-rooted campaign structure for the party.

Dr. Akpodiete’s humanitarian record through the Olotu and Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete Foundation also sets him apart. Since its establishment, the Foundation has focused on sustainable development, education, healthcare, security support, charity, social welfare, and empowerment.

Key activities of the Foundation since 2018 include:
– Annual Empowerment Programs: The Foundation conducts yearly outreach for vulnerable groups. On April 9, 2026, it held a widow empowerment program at Iwhreko Community Town Hall, Ughelli, where over 100 widows from Ughelli North, South and Udu received cash, gifts, and wrappers during the 31st remembrance of Late Chief Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete. Dr. Akpodiete has pledged to sustain the program annually and extend it to other segments of society.
– Education Support: The Foundation awards scholarships and provides learning materials and school support to indigent students across the constituency to improve access to quality education.
– Healthcare Interventions: It runs medical outreaches and supports community health initiatives for underserved populations in the three LGAs. The Foundation has registered over 500 Deltans for health insurance across Delta State.
– Youth and Sports Development: The Foundation hosts an annual novelty football match in honor of Late Chief Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete at Clifford Cassidy Play Ground, General Field, to discover and nurture young football talents. The 2026 second edition ended 1-1 between children and grandchildren of the late chief, with cash gifts presented to team captains. The Foundation has also trained over 700 youths in vocational and digital skills.
– Community Development and Security: The Foundation supports community projects such as water boreholes across Delta and backs security initiatives including conflict resolution capacity building and donation of security gadgets to various communities to improve safety and social cohesion.
– Recognition of Service: Through Life Achievement Awards, the Foundation celebrates individuals for outstanding service to humanity. In 2026, recipients included Olorogun Miller Uloho and Chief Morrison Obaseki Olori.

Party faithfuls maintain that Dr. Akpodiete combines loyalty, proven mobilization strength, and a verifiable humanitarian record. His work in rebuilding the PDP, empowering constituents, building enduring political structures, and sustaining philanthropy through his Foundation makes him the most electable and prepared aspirant to represent Ughelli North, South and Udu in the House of Representatives come 2027.

Opinion

DESPITE JUDICIAL FINALITY, SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE SETS THE PATHWAY FOR THE FUTURE OF JUSTICE AND PEACE FOR WESTERN BAKASSI

Published

1 week ago

April 12, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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Maritime Law and Continental shelf entitlements are entirely reliant on the Interpretation of Scientific Processes.
And where any Body of Law is dependent on Scientific Processes, then emerging scientific findings will naturally reshape the Law

In what may become one of the most consequential developments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector in recent years, new scientific, hydrographic, and geospatial evidence is reshaping long-standing assumptions about maritime boundaries, resource ownership, and national economic security in the Gulf of Guinea..

At the center of this unfolding narrative is Cross River State, which, following years of exclusion from oil derivation revenues, is now poised for a historic re-entry into Nigeria’s league of oil-producing states.

A Turning Point Beyond the Courts:

For over two decades, the status of Cross River State as a non-oil-producing state has been largely anchored on the 2002 International Court of Justice (ICJ) judgment, which ceded parts of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon.

This was further compounded by the 2008 oil wells dichotomy implementation map, which ultimately reassigned 76 oil wells to Akwa Ibom State in 2012.

While these legal outcomes remain binding, emerging scientific findings suggest that judicial finality does not necessarily equate to geological finality.

Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, drawing from a detailed problem statement and situation analysis, initiated a bold and comprehensive investigation aimed at re-examining the subsurface realities beneath the disputed maritime terrain.

Science Steps In Where Law Stopped
The Cross River Economic Intelligence Team (CREIT), under the Governor’s directive, conducted a multi-layered validation survey—incorporating subsurface geology, geodesy, hydrography, and advanced geospatial mapping—across the Nigeria–Cameroon maritime corridor.

The study extended from the Cross River Estuary through the Akwayefe River Estuary into Cameroon waters, reaching as far as the G-Point and the strategic tripartite boundary with Equatorial Guinea and São Tomé and Príncipe.

What emerged is a compelling body of evidence pointing to continuous sedimentary and hydrocarbon systems stretching from Nigeria’s inland rivers into the deep offshore continental shelf.

The Cross River Estuary system—fed by the Cross River, Calabar River, and Great Kwa River—discharges over 800 million cubic litres of water into the Atlantic Ocean, transporting sediments across a span of approximately 280 nautical miles.

These sediments have formed rich hydrocarbon-bearing structures across the extended continental shelf.

Strategic Geography, Renewed Advantage
Geographically, the estuary’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean—just 4.8 nautical miles—combined with a natural draft depth exceeding 22 meters and access to 200-meter isobath zones, places Nigeria in a strategically advantageous position to assert extended continental shelf rights under international law.

Crucially, the findings indicate that significant portions of the western Bakassi maritime corridor were never ceded, and remain within Nigeria’s legitimate economic and geological domain.

New Discoveries, New Possibilities:

The implications of the CREIT investigation are profound:
Over 186 oil wells identified for potential recovery

238 newly mapped oil well coordinates

49 transboundary reservoirs straddling Nigeria and Cameroon

Recovery of approximately 780 hectares of maritime territory

Within OML 114 (Abana Field) and adjoining offshore zones, these reservoirs represent a significant untapped energy resource.
Additionally, the broader Cross River maritime axis—covering Akpabuyo and Odukpani—is now estimated to hold:
4.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas
45 million barrels of crude oil

These figures signal the emergence of a new energy frontier capable of transforming Cross River State into a major hub within Nigeria’s oil and gas ecosystem.
National Security and Strategic Imperatives
This development is not merely economic—it is deeply strategic.

As far back as 2006, former President Olusegun Obasanjo had warned, in a national security policy brief, of the risks associated with losing control over unceded territories within western Bakassi and the Cross River Estuary.

Today, those warnings appear prescient.
CREIT now frames the issue as an urgent national security intelligence risk, emphasizing the need to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime corridors, protect offshore infrastructure, and assert sovereign economic rights.

A Window for Diplomatic Innovation
For President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the findings present a rare opportunity for strategic leadership.

Rather than reopening settled legal disputes, experts advocate a forward-looking approach anchored on:

Joint development and production sharing agreements with Cameroon

Cooperative exploitation of transboundary reservoirs

Strengthening Nigeria’s claim to its extended continental shelf

Such arrangements could unlock production levels of up to 300,000 barrels per day, while reinforcing regional stability and economic cooperation.

From Rivalry to Partnership
Perhaps most significantly, the new evidence offers a pathway to resolve the long-standing tensions between Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

Both states stand to benefit immensely from the newly identified resources. Federal guidance encouraging collaborative frameworks for derivation sharing has been widely welcomed as a pragmatic solution.
Under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calls for unity and mutual benefit are gaining traction.

The emerging consensus is clear: the future lies not in contest, but in cooperation.

No Victor, No Vanquished.

While the Supreme Court’s decisions remain legally binding, science has introduced a new dimension—one that transcends boundaries drawn on maps and speaks to the realities beneath them.
In this evolving context, justice is no longer defined solely by legal verdicts, but also by equity, evidence, and shared national interest.

As CREIT succinctly puts it:
“This is not about reversing history, but about redefining the future. Science has provided the bridge—what remains is the will to cross it together.”

Conclusion.
Nigeria stands at the threshold of a transformative moment.
The convergence of science, policy, and diplomacy offers a unique opportunity to reclaim economic value, strengthen national security, and foster regional harmony.

For Cross River State, it signals a long-awaited restoration of status and dignity. For Nigeria, it represents a bold step toward maximizing its natural endowments in a complex geopolitical landscape.
And for both Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, it marks the beginning of a new chapter—one defined not by division, but by a shared vision of justice, peace, and prosperity.

No victor. No vanquished. Only a nation moving forward.

By CREIT- March 2026.
Cross River Economic Intelligence Team