The public presentation and official launch of “Barrels of Blood,” the latest literary work by renowned Niger Delta author Binaebi Oyeghe, was successfully held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Main Auditorium of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Azikoro Road, Ekeki, Yenagoa, with a strong call on writers, scholars and policymakers to continue using literature as a tool for preserving the history, culture and environmental challenges of the Niger Delta.
The colourful event, which attracted government officials, traditional rulers, academics, literary enthusiasts, journalists, students and members of the public, revolved on the theme, “Retelling the Niger Delta Story.”
In her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Bayelsa State, Hon. (Mrs.) Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, commended the author for producing a literary masterpiece that amplifies the voice of the Niger Delta people.
Hon. Obiyai, represented by the Director of Orientation in the Ministry, Dr. Sophia Obi, described literature as an indispensable instrument for cultural preservation, social transformation and nation-building, urging writers to remain committed to documenting the region’s rich heritage and contemporary realities.
A former Chairman of the Bayelsa State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors, flanked by other seasoned writers such as Sir David Suowari, Dr Arthur Oroupo, Dr Timibofa Ayebanua, amongst others, congratulated the author on the successful publication of the book.
They noted in their goodwill messages, that creative writing remains a powerful medium for educating society, inspiring future generations and preserving historical narratives. While urging young writers to emulate the author’s commitment to scholarship and creativity.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Collins Cocodia, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, described “Barrels of Blood” as a timely contribution to African literature.
Represented by the Director of Human Resources and Administration in the Office of the S.A. Political Matters, Mr. Rodney Ere, he stressed the importance of intellectual engagement in shaping society and commended the author for using fiction to provoke meaningful conversations on the environment, identity and development within the Niger Delta.
Adding royal dignity to the ceremony, the Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Highness (Pst.) Olabai Levi Olozulu, Ph.D., JP, alongside a chief from Ukubie Community in SILGA, and the Foropa Clan Central Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Ebibobomene Wilcox-Bubai, they acknowledged the author literary prowess for projecting the cultural values and identity of the Niger Delta people through literature.
They sued for youths to embrace reading and writing as pathways to personal development and societal progress.
The highlight of the ceremony was the comprehensive review of the book by renowned writer and literary critic Nengi Josef Owei-Ilagha (Pope Pen).
In his detailed scholarly presentation, the reviewer described “Barrels of Blood” as a compelling eco-fiction narrative that vividly captures the historical, environmental and socio-economic realities of the Niger Delta.
The seasoned literary reviewer, observed that the novel blends creativity with social consciousness, making it a valuable addition to contemporary African literature.
The Chief Host, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, appreciated participants for their overwhelming support and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to promoting literary, intellectual and cultural activities that enrich society.
A Niger Delta Activist, who graced the occasion, Senior Comrade Edmund Ebiware Indiamowei, popularly known as “Don Capello” recalled with nostalgic emotions, his fourteen years incarceration as a result of his commitment to the Niger Delta cause that eventually gave rise to sustained peace in the once troubled region, as he challenged youths to emulate the writer and be resolute in defining their calling in life.
Speaking at the event, the author, Binaebi Oyeghe, expressed profound appreciation to the dignitaries, guests, friends and lovers of literature who graced the occasion.
Mr Oyeghe, explained that the inspiration behind “Barrels of Blood” was borne out of a desire to preserve the stories, struggles and resilience of the Niger Delta people for future generations. He emphasized that literature must continue to serve as a mirror of society and a catalyst for positive change.
The unveiling of the book, presentation of copies to dignitaries, goodwill messages and interactive sessions with guests formed part of the memorable highlights of the ceremony.
The successful launch of Barrels of Blood has been widely described as a milestone in the promotion of literary excellence and cultural consciousness in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta.
Participants, such Mr Tari Goli, expressed optimism that the novel would stimulate scholarly discourse and encourage a renewed appreciation of the region’s history, environment and cultural identity.
Signed
Media and Publicity Committee
Public Presentation and Launch of Barrels of Blood
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – Tuesday, July 28, 2026