By Sunday Apah

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a group called the Ughelli South Political Colonels has been formed to ensure total victory for all PDP candidates in the Ughelli South Local Government Area.

This initiative aims to unite supporters and galvanize resources as the upcoming elections approach.

The group convened for its inaugural meeting at Unity Hall in Ughelli South Local Government Council secretariat on Sunday.

During the meeting, members were encouraged to show respect to leaders within the local government area and were reminded of the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving their collective goals.

Speaking at the meeting, political gladiators—including Mr. Simon Umudi, also known as Temple; Chief Matthew Kwode; and Chief Francis Aguonigho—emphasized that the formation of the group was not intended to undermine the party.

Instead, they stressed that their primary objective is to support the PDP in achieving a sweeping victory in the 2027 elections.

The trio further noted that the Ughelli South Political Colonels were established to facilitate effective navigation through the political landscape by addressing grievances within all wards.

According to them, “Our mission includes reconciling aggrieved party members and attracting new supporters to strengthen the party’s ranks.”

They added, “With a united front, we aim to secure a commanding victory for the PDP in the upcoming elections.”

Other top leaders who attended the meeting included Olorogun Prince Okiemute Oviri, Chief Ovis Uto, Chief John Ewenede, Chief Samuel Oghotomo, Chief Paul Etaga, Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, Chief Sunday Apah, Chief Fidelis Tuvata, Mrs. Mercy Ekama, Kingsley Akeni, Chief Ochuko Omorere, Rt. Hon. Matthew Oguma, Joel Opete Esq., Mr. Andy Edono.

Other notable attendees were Prince Solomon Ugen, Engr. Ogheneochuko Agberia, Mr. Saturday Nukueye, Hon. Maxwell Urhogu, Mr. Ricardo Oguma, Chief Sylvester Uzoh, Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho, Chief Abraham Erhuen, Chief Samuel Buluku, Mr. Moses Atemenye, Ms. Noreen Ughojor, Sir Sunday Mrakpor, Chief Ejiro Hope, Chief Solomon Ala, Hon. Happy Gbeke, Hon. Friday Ijomone, Evang. Freeborn Yafogho, Mr. Ichipi Oghenekevwe, Mr. Kennedy Egole, Engr. Kingsley Igben, and many others.

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday, welcomed more than 2,000 defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other opposition parties in the state.

The defectors, who were mainly members of the Delta Political Actualisation Network (DPAN), were led by Mr. Fejiro Ishaka from Ughelli Urban, alongside Alex Idu and his supporters from Orogun.

They were received during the inauguration of the Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency Forum, which took place at Oharisi Primary School in Ughelli.

Chief Solomon Arenyeka, the State Chairman of the PDP, expressed enthusiasm about the new members, stating that the party aims to reclaim the Federal Constituency in the upcoming 2027 elections.

Arenyeka encouraged the defectors to work diligently towards the party’s success and praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the extensive construction projects throughout the state.

Comrade Fejiro Ishaka, the leader of the defectors, emphasized that their decision to join the ruling party was a result of divine inspiration. He noted their admiration for the significant infrastructure and human capital advancements spearheaded by Governor Oborevwori.

Ishaka cited a lack of leadership and direction as reasons for their departure from the APC. “In 2019, we fought valiantly with our candidate, Chief Great Ogboru, without success.

We faced a similar situation in 2023 with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, losing to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. This time, we won’t be misled; we have found clarity, and we are determined to ensure victory for all PDP candidates in the Federal Constituency in 2027.”

He also remarked on the disarray within the APC, stating, “The APC lacks direction and focus needed to win elections in Delta State. They are caught up in internal conflicts, while I see a united PDP ready to reclaim its winning path.”

Alex Idu, who had joined the APC near the end of the 2023 General Elections, expressed regret over his departure from the PDP. He urged party members to remain loyal and cohesive to secure a victory for Governor Oborevwori in 2027.

“My experience with the APC has shown me that I made a grave mistake in leaving the PDP. Having returned to my roots in Orogun, I assure you that we will pose no threat to victory come 2027.”

Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, encouraged the new members to commit fully to the party’s success in future elections, assuring them of equal opportunities alongside long-standing members.

Onyeme emphasized that the defectors now have the same rights as existing PDP members and called on everyone to collaborate in securing the Ughelli Federal Constituency for the PDP in 2027.

In support of this sentiment, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, urged the defectors to advocate for the PDP.

In a final vote of thanks, former Secretary to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Festus Agas, congratulated the Forum on their successful inauguration and reaffirmed his confidence that the party would triumph in 2027.

By Sunday Apah

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), will inaugurate the Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency Forum on Saturday, March 22nd 2025, as part of moves to strengthen its foothold in the Constituency.

The event which is scheduled to commence at 10am, will hold at Oharisi Primary School field, Ughelli.

In a statement signed by Olorogun Jaro Egbo, KSC (Chairman, Organising Committee) and Olorogun Festus Ahon, KSC (Chairman, Publicity Committee), the inauguration will be graced by the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, and State Chairman of the party, Chief Solomon Arenyeka and other key political stakeholders in the state.

The statement extended invitation to the general public, particularly PDP members, to attend the event.

The establishment of the forum is expected to strengthen political engagement within the constituency and provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss developmental issues.

The event is anticipated to draw a large turnout of party faithful, community leaders, and political figures.

By Sunday Apah

Following the planned nationwide protest by women under the aegis of the Purple Women Foundation, allegedly sponsored by a suspended senator and her husband, the Niger Delta Youth Leaders Association has called on security agencies to take decisive action against the perpetrators.

The group, in a statement signed by Comrade Ufuoma Erharhine, emphasized that their call was necessary due to certain factions organizing demonstrations fueled not by genuine grievances but by external influences and agendas aimed at destabilizing the country.

According to the statement, “While we acknowledge the right to peaceful assembly as a cornerstone of our democracy, we must remain vigilant against movements intended to incite violence, unrest, and division among our citizens.”

“We urge the President to prioritize the safety and security of all citizens by directing intelligence and law enforcement agencies to investigate Chief Emma Uduaghan, the husband of Senator Natasha, who is believed to be the financier of these protests.”

“Investigating who is behind these initiatives is crucial for preventing any potential escalation that could lead to civil disorder and unrest.”

“The stability of our nation must remain paramount. History shows us that unrest often leads to unnecessary suffering and can have long-lasting effects on our communities and institutions.”

“We believe that thorough investigations are necessary not only to protect our great nation but also to uphold the democratic values we cherish.”

“We call for transparency in the findings of these investigations and urge the government to communicate with the public regarding measures being taken to ensure our safety and security.”

“We remain resolute in defense of the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without fear or favor, as the continuous attacks on Senator Akpabio are attacks against the President and the people of the South-South.”

“We stand ready to support the government’s commitment to peace and order and the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio. We call upon all stakeholders to do their part to foster peace because if these attacks do not stop, they will lead to unrest in the Niger Delta region,” the statement concluded.

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has on Monday, congratulated HRM (Dr.) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, OON, Obi of Owa Kingdom on his 87th birthday.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori praised Obi Efeizomor as “one of Delta’s most distinguished traditional leaders, celebrated for his remarkable achievements in leadership.”

The Governor highlighted the significant impact that Obi Efeizomor has had on the development of Delta State, particularly emphasizing his contributions to the Owa kingdom.

“For the people of Owa, Obi Efeizomor is not just a leader; he is a revered figure, a role model, and a steadfast guardian of their traditions and culture,” the Governor stated.

He noted that under the Obi’s guidance, the Owa kingdom has witnessed substantial advancements in both infrastructure and human capital development.

“As the immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, your invaluable contributions have been noteworthy. You exemplify humility and embody the qualities of a true peacemaker and leader,” he continued.

On behalf of his family and the citizens of Delta State, the Governor conveyed heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor, OON, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, on the celebration of his 87th birthday.

Wishing the revered monarch a joyful anniversary, Governor Oborevwori offered prayers for his continued health and wisdom, hoping that he will keep serving the kingdom, the state, and humanity for many more years to come.

By Sunday Apah

Former Delta State House of Assembly member, Hon. Misan Ukubeyinje, has urged the Senate to promptly revisit the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Kogi Central Senatorial District, labeling the move as a grave example of legislative overreach, unconstitutional, and unjustly biased.

In a statement released to journalists in Warri, Delta State, Ukubeyinje expressed that the suspension reflects poorly on the Senate, potentially damaging the standing of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and casting doubt on the integrity of the 10th Senate.

Throughout his career, which has included roles as State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources and Commissioner for Lands, Surveys, and Urban Development, Ukubeyinje has maintained that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Rights and Privileges, along with the Senate as a whole, have violated existing regulations meant to safeguard senators facing threats and intimidation.

As a legal practitioner, he expressed disappointment that the Senate appeared to have prioritized the protection of its President in light of the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation brought forward by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan instead of adhering to standard procedures.

Ukubeyinje reiterated his call for the Senate to reassess the suspension, arguing that “Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has done nothing wrong by voicing her concerns regarding oppression, intimidation, and harassment.”

He further contended that suspending a senator for more than 14 days without proper justification is unconstitutional. According to Senate Order 67 (4) and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act 2018, a member found guilty of contempt cannot be suspended for longer than 48 hours.

He referenced the legal precedent set in the 2018 Court of Appeal case, Ali Ndume vs. Senate, which established that senators cannot be suspended for longer than 14 days. He also pointed to the case involving Senator Ovie Omo-Agege as supporting his position.

Ukubeyinje emphasized that during her pursuit of justice, Senator Natasha had raised an Order 10, which was disregarded, and she submitted a detailed written petition that deserved proper consideration.

He insisted that the Senate should protect her rights and investigate the pertinent issues before delivering a comprehensive report, with the Senate President stepping aside during the process.

Instead of fulfilling this duty, Ukubeyinje charged that the Senate dismissed her allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation on procedural grounds, citing a pending court case related to the Senate President, thereby exhibiting a double standard and improperly extending their authority by suspending her beyond legal limits.