Notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, has adopted a comprehensive 11-point communiqué at its Special Convention on Peace, Unity and Development, held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Erema Civil Centre, Erema Town, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State.
The convention brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, representatives of the four LGAs in the Orashi Region, youth and women groups, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity and peaceful coexistence in the Orashi Region.
It called on all sons and daughters, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion, to embrace dialogue and tolerance.
The ONC urged traditional rulers, political and community leaders to use their influence to prevent conflict and maintain harmony.
The Convention expressed concern over the rising killings and violent crimes in Omoku and surrounding communities.
It condemned the loss of innocent lives and called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated operations.
The ONC also urged residents to provide credible information and rejected reprisal attacks and jungle justice.
The Congress commended the Rivers State Police Command under CP Olugbenga Adepoju for efforts in maintaining law and order.
It appreciated other security agencies and urged them to adopt intelligence-led policing and stronger inter-agency cooperation.
The ONC pledged continued support for lawful measures aimed at restoring peace in the region.
Noting the increase in statutory allocations to LGAs, the Congress called on Local Government Chairmen in Orashi to ensure prudent management of resources.
Priority areas listed include: rural roads, primary healthcare, education, potable water, agriculture, youth empowerment, employment, and community infrastructure.
The ONC demanded transparency and accountability, stressing that citizens must see tangible results.
After reviewing Rivers State’s political history, the Convention resolved that equity and fairness should guide the 2027 governorship contest.
It noted that Rivers East has produced governor for about 16 years, while the incumbent, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, is from Rivers South East.
The ONC therefore, supports the aspiration of Rivers West Senatorial District to produce the next Governor.
Following due process, the Special Convention endorsed High Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, Governorship Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, as the candidate supported by the Orashi National Congress for the 2027 Rivers State Governorship Election.
The Congress called on members and supporters to uphold the decision and pursue all political activities within the law.
It urged all political actors to ensure a peaceful, violence-free 2027 election.
The ONC called on political leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people and focus on development, security, education, healthcare and job creation.
It warned against mobilizing youths for violence and thuggery, and urged issue-based politics driven by competence and character.
The Congress recognized youths as critical to the future of Orashi and called on government and private sector to invest in education, skills, agriculture, technology and sports.
It urged young people to reject cultism, drug abuse, kidnapping and internet fraud, and to engage in community development.
The ONC called on traditional rulers, political leaders, CDAs, youth and women groups across the four LGAs to work together for the advancement of the region.
It encouraged dialogue and cautioned against statements that could cause division.
The Convention reaffirmed that the development of Orashi is a collective responsibility.
It called for greater collaboration among LGAs, traditional institutions, businesses and development partners to harness the region’s human and natural resources.
The Congress appreciated traditional rulers, delegates, guests, youth and women groups, and particularly the people of Erema Town and ONELGA for their hospitality.
The ONC reiterated its commitment to peace, unity, security, good governance and equitable representation in Rivers State.
“Peace is the foundation of development. Unity is the strength of our people. Equity is the pathway to lasting political stability,” the communiqué stated.
