Controversy Rocks Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation as Junior Staff Assumes Leadership
A surprising twist has unfolded at the Ernest Ikoli Media Complex in Ekeki, Yenagoa, the headquarters of the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation.
Ruth Gwegwe, a staff member from the Ministry of Information, has been appointed as overseer, taking on a leadership role in an unexpected move.
This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly since Gwegwe is junior to Peace Sinclair, the editor of the corporation’s flagship newspaper, New Waves, who was widely anticipated to assume the position.
Preye Wariowei, the Acting General Manager, retired on March 27, 2025, after reaching the age of 60. In a surprising turn of events, Wariowei handed over leadership to Gwegwe, who is at grade level 17, step 1, despite Sinclair’s seniority at grade level 17, step 4.
This unprecedented decision has sparked concerns, as it marks a departure from tradition in both the Bayelsa State Broadcasting Corporation and Niger Delta Television, where overseers typically do not assume such leadership roles.
The appointment has left many questioning the criteria used to select Gwegwe, given Sinclair’s greater experience and seniority. It has also prompted broader scrutiny of the corporation’s leadership structure and the Ministry of Information’s influence in the decision-making process.
As the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation grapples with this unexpected development, stakeholders are demanding transparency and accountability in the leadership selection process.
The corporation’s commitment to professionalism and meritocracy hangs in the balance, with the public closely watching how the situation unfolds.
Two years ago, the former Commissioner for Information intervened in a similar situation, urging Peace Sinclair—who, according to civil service rules, was next in line for leadership—to step aside for the outgoing General Manager. Sinclair complied in good faith, trusting that her opportunity would come on March 27, 2025.
However, with political maneuvering seemingly at play once again, Sinclair is now seeking justice for what she perceives as a repeated denial of her rightful position.
