Who Is Mrs Rita Lori Ogbebor?
If you don’t know her name by now, then where have you been? Mrs. Rita Lori Ogbebor is not just another name in the headlines — she is a legend in her own right. A strong woman. A queen. An unrelenting voice for justice in the Niger Delta. Known as the first female broadcaster in Nigeria, this Itsekiri icon has not only made history, she’s become a symbol of resistance, culture, and courage.
Her Age – A Journey Through Time
Though Rita Lori Ogbebor has always kept some things personal, sources close to her reveal she was born in the early 1940s, which places her in her 80s today. But make no mistake — age is just a number for this warrior-woman. She’s sharper, more articulate, and more passionate than most people half her age.
Just recently, she stunned viewers during a televised interview where she boldly spoke about corruption and marginalization, calling out names without fear or favour. That’s classic Rita for you!
Tribe – Itsekiri Royalty in Flesh and Blood
Mrs. Rita hails from Warri, Delta State, and is proudly of the Itsekiri tribe — a people known for their deep cultural heritage, royal lineage, and resilience. But she’s not just any Itsekiri woman — she’s a princess! Her father, Chief Lori, was a respected Itsekiri traditional chief, and from childhood, Rita knew she had royalty running through her veins.
She has consistently used her platform to advocate for Itsekiri rights, development in the Niger Delta, and equity among Nigeria’s minority tribes. If you’ve ever seen her speak at an ethnic or cultural event, you’ll know that her pride in her tribe is unmatched.
Religion – Guided by Faith and Conviction
One thing is clear about Rita Lori Ogbebor — her faith is the compass that guides her actions. A devout Christian, she never hides her belief in God. In many of her public statements and interviews, she openly references her spirituality and how divine guidance has kept her strong through decades of activism and public life.
Whether it’s fighting for environmental justice or speaking against political oppression, she always credits her courage to God’s protection and wisdom.
Husband – Married to Her Mission
Now this is where it gets interesting! Many have asked: “Who is Rita Lori Ogbebor’s husband?” The truth? She has never been publicly married. Yes, you read that right.
In fact, she has often been referred to as “married to the struggle.” Her life has been entirely devoted to fighting for the rights of the voiceless — especially women and marginalized communities in the Niger Delta. In her own words, “My people needed me more than any man ever could.”
This decision, though unconventional in a society that often measures a woman’s worth by her marital status, has earned her even more respect. She chose service over societal expectations — and never looked back.
Career – A Trailblazer Before It Was Cool
Before activism, before royalty, before politics — Rita Lori Ogbebor was a pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting. She became the first female newscaster in the country, breaking the male-dominated media space back in the 1960s. Can we just pause and let that sink in?
She worked with the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), now known as NTA, and quickly became a household name. But even back then, she wasn’t just reading the news. She was rewriting it. Using her platform to bring attention to issues others ignored.
Later in life, she would become a businesswoman, real estate mogul, and of course, a fierce political voice.
Activism – The Niger Delta’s Lioness
If you’re from the Niger Delta or have ever followed its political struggles, then you must have heard her name. Rita Lori Ogbebor has been a relentless advocate for the region’s development, calling out oil companies, corrupt politicians, and even traditional rulers when they fail to act in the people’s best interest.
She played a major role in fighting for resource control, education for young girls, and protection of the environment — long before it became trendy to do so. And till this day, she remains a respected elder stateswoman in Delta State and beyond.
Controversies – Unapologetically Bold
Let’s be honest — you can’t be this outspoken without ruffling a few feathers. Over the years, Rita Lori Ogbebor has found herself in the middle of several political and cultural storms. But does she care? Not in the slightest.
She’s known for speaking her truth, even if it means standing alone. Whether it’s criticizing political leaders, demanding accountability from traditional institutions, or challenging her own ethnic leaders, she never shies away from controversy.
And maybe that’s what makes her different. She’s never been scared of being misunderstood. She’s only ever been scared of being silent.
Legacy – More Than Just A Name
Rita Lori Ogbebor may be in her twilight years, but her light continues to shine bright. She remains a living example that a woman can be fearless, firm, and feminine all at once.
From blazing the trail as a broadcaster, to fighting for equity in the Niger Delta, to living life on her own terms — she’s shown the world what it means to be unstoppable.
Many young Nigerian women today stand tall because women like Rita stood first. And that’s a legacy no one can erase.
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Conclusion.
In a country where many women still struggle to find their voice, Mrs. Rita Lori Ogbebor is the roaring lioness that reminds us all that strength knows no gender. She’s a living icon, and Nigeria is better because she dared to be different.
If you’re looking for inspiration, courage, and the true definition of womanhood — just study her life. Rita Lori Ogbebor didn’t just live through history. She made it.
