The Association of Gbaramatu Female Graduates in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has applauded what they refer to as "the courageous and historic decision" of the people of Ikantu community in reaffirming their ancestral roots as well as in renewing their total allegiance to the Pere of the ancient Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II (JP), Aketekpe, Agadagba.

The Association, led by its President, Mrs. Gloria Otutufegha, in its released statement also urged other descendants of Oweizibri, the founder of the kingdom, to follow suit and to accept the hand of love and fellowship extended by the good people of Gbaramatu Kingdom.

While reacting to alleged threats against the Ikantu people, Mrs. Otutufegha emphasized on the role of mothers toward promoting peace as she called “on all mothers not to relent in preaching the gospel of peace" to their children as violence does no one any good.

Still on the issue of bickering by the Itsekiri ethnic nationality against the Ijaws, the Association noted that the Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, owned by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, employed the Itsekiris as beneficiaries, in a demonstration of what they referred to as "inclusivity gesture" which they said "is a commendable step towards ethnic harmony and collaboration within the Niger Delta region" by Tompolo.

However, they also alleged that the same cannot be said of another surveillance contracting firm on the Trans-Forcados Pipeline network, the Pipelines Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), which is said to be owned by a traditional ruler, but which has not been impactful on the lives of the people.

The Association stated that, "Despite the scale and strategic significance of this contract, its socio-economic benefits remain largely unfelt by the broader Niger Delta populace, particularly in areas of employment, community development, and economic empowerment.

"In light of this, the Association calls for a more equitable and transparent framework that ensures fair representation and tangible benefits for all ethnic nationalities and communities in the Niger Delta in the execution of oil-related contracts and development initiatives."

The Association also condemned the growing trend of name-calling and disparaging comments made against respected leaders just as it urged all stakeholders to embrace respectful dialogue that will foster unity among the diverse ethnic groups within the area.

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