The National Urhobo Vanguard Apex Body has strongly criticized Sahara Reporters for publishing what it referred to as “deliberate misinformation” aimed at tarnishing the image of the Petroleum Training Institute (P.T.I) in Effurun, Delta State.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, and co-signed by the group’s Chairman, Hon. Bamwa Austine, and Chief Daniel Umukoro, the organization denounced the report which alleged that P.T.I’s classrooms were flooded and its hostels infested with snakes. They described the publication as a deliberate move to misinform the public and damage the institution’s reputation.
According to the group, which serves as an umbrella body for various Urhobo interest organizations nationwide, an independent inspection of the institute’s facilities revealed no truth in the claims made.
“As a group devoted to upholding truth and accountability, we visited the institute and can confirm that all infrastructure—including classrooms, hostels, and laboratory equipment—are in excellent condition. The drainage systems are also fully functional, ruling out the possibility of flooding,” the statement read.
The group demanded that Sahara Reporters publish a public apology in three national newspapers within seven days or face legal action.
“This type of reckless journalism not only misleads the public but also attempts to discredit institutions making significant progress. P.T.I remains a highly regarded academic institution in the Niger Delta,” the group emphasized.
They urged the public to ignore the misleading report, stating that such publications aim to distract from the notable achievements the institute
has made in recent years.
