NewStats: 3,263,476 , 8,180,253 topics. Date: Friday, 06 June 2025 at 06:39 AM 3b4bx

A Heartfelt Appeal to President Tinubu: Grant a Presidential Pardon to Chief James Onanefe Ibori

By Abiodun Bolinger

The Concerned Nigerians for a Better Nigeria (CNBN), through its National Coordinator, Dr. Godwin Obire, is making a solemn and ionate plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to Chief James Onanefe Ibori an illustrious son of the Urhobo nation and a towering figure in Nigeria’s political history. At a recent press briefing in Asaba, Dr. Obire described Ibori as not just a man, but a mission one who has uplifted countless lives and championed the cause of unity, peace, and development in our great nation.

Dr. Obire underscored Ibori’s unique contributions during his tenure as Governor of Delta State, highlighting how he confronted the volatile issues of pipeline vandalism and ethnic violence with remarkable foresight. Ibori’s leadership ushered in an era of relative calm in the Niger Delta through dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusion. His hands-on approach to resolving tensions among warring factions showed not only courage but an unwavering commitment to one Nigeria. In those turbulent years, Ibori’s diplomacy kept the nation from the brink.

The CNBN emphasizes that Ibori has walked through the fire of legal ability and emerged with humility. He served his sentence with dignity and has since maintained a quiet, reflective posture. His silence speaks not of defeat, but of wisdom, maturity, and a deep understanding of responsibility. Ibori has chosen the path of peace, refraining from the political spotlight to focus instead on rebuilding trust and offering quiet mentorship to the next generation.

During his years as governor, Chief Ibori was the architect of transformation in Delta State. His istration spearheaded projects in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and rural development. He built bridges both literal and metaphorical that continue to connect communities. The legacy of his developmental strides still echoes in the hearts of those who his tenure as a time of visible progress and economic upliftment.

Dr. Obire further praised Ibori’s commitment to grassroots empowerment, especially in oil-producing areas. Through the establishment of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Ibori redirected resources to neglected communities. This act not only provided jobs and infrastructure but also served as a deterrent to unrest and pipeline sabotage by restoring hope to the people. His policies transformed resentment into productivity.

On security, Ibori understood that peace was the key to prosperity. He collaborated closely with law enforcement and the military to protect vital oil infrastructure and curb militancy. Specialized units were created to patrol sensitive areas, drastically reducing violence. By standing as a bulwark between chaos and order, Ibori preserved not only Delta State’s future but Nigeria’s economic stability.

In of economic empowerment, his vision extended far beyond oil. Ibori championed agriculture, small enterprises, and youth development programs. He gave young people purpose, skills, and the opportunity to dream beyond the creeks. By offering alternatives to crime, he saved lives, families, and futures. His istration believed in people and invested in their potential.

Chief Ibori was also a key figure in political negotiations with militant groups in the Niger Delta, advocating tirelessly for peaceful resolutions. His engagement with groups like MEND paved the way for national dialogue and disarmament efforts. Ibori risked his life navigating the creeks and strongholds of militancy to bring peace his mission always rooted in a love for Nigeria that outweighed personal risk.

Inclusiveness was a cornerstone of his governance. Ibori ensured that every ethnic group in Delta had a voice in government. By building a culture of representation, he diffused long-standing tensions and gave every community a sense of belonging. His istration modeled what a united Nigeria could look like diverse yet harmonious.

Ibori also stood at the forefront of the advocacy for the 13% oil derivation formula, securing vital revenue for oil-producing states. His efforts helped correct years of neglect, allowing states like Delta to address environmental damage and invest in development. This achievement alone stands as a testament to his foresight and tenacity in championing equity for his people.

Today, there is a growing public call for healing an appeal for reconciliation and forgiveness. Granting Chief James Ibori a presidential pardon would not just restore one man’s dignity, it would reflect a national willingness to heal old wounds. Mr. President, this act of mercy would be a beacon of your istration’s values: unity, inclusion, and transformation through forgiveness.

Your Excellency, the pardon of Ibori would not be a political gesture it would be a moral one. A declaration that Nigeria believes in second chances. A statement that our nation knows how to honour the good in men even when they have faltered. Ibori’s redemption journey is one that inspires hope that no matter how far one falls, with reflection and remorse, one can rise again to serve.

From the bustling markets of Warri to the serene towns of the North, from the youth of Lagos to the elders of Yenagoa, the name Ibori still resonates. He is ed as a leader who touched lives, mentored generations, and brought food to many tables. Dr. Obire himself named his daughter Onanefe Miracle after Ibori as a tribute to the character and leadership he believes the man represents.

Let this be the season where your istration shows that greatness lies not only in economic progress but also in acts of reconciliation. Mr. President, you have the unique opportunity to write a new chapter in Nigeria’s story by extending a hand of mercy to a man who once gave his all for peace and unity.

We, the Concerned Nigerians for a Better Nigeria, our voices with millions in appealing to your conscience and leadership. Let Chief James Onanefe Ibori be granted a presidential pardon not just for who he was, but for who he still is to so many: a symbol of strength, service, and the possibility of redemption.

That's why we would remain a Third World country for a long time. Unfortunately, one of the first world countries is going our way!

Chai! See what they have turned this country to...

They are now begging a thief who stole his way to presidency to pardon another thief so that the pardoned thief may also make his attempt to steal his way to presidency tomorrow... Chai!....

Brendaniel:
Chai! See aht they have turned this country to...

They are now begging a thief who stole his way to presidency to pardon another thief so that the pardoned thief may also make his attempt to steal his way to presidency tomorrow... Chai!....

There was a country.