back to top
Home Blog Page 8

Police Arrest Buhari, Others for Robbery, Kidnapping in Delta

By Sunday Apah

The police in Delta State have arrested Mr. Buhari Bala along with other suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, and cultists at various locations in the state.

In a press release on Friday, 21st February 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, stated that some of the suspected kidnappers who have been terrorizing the Abraka, Obiaruku, and Umutu areas were arrested on 30th January 2025 by operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson.

He explained in the statement that the team stormed the hideout on 2nd February 2025 and apprehended the fleeing gang leader, named Emeka (surname unknown), at approximately 16:35 hrs. This location was situated at Evwokenren Layout, off Ughelli Road, Agbarho, in Ughelli North LGA, Delta State.

“During the raid, a fabricated semi-automatic Beretta pistol with four rounds of live ammunition, four locally-made cut-to-size guns, thirteen rounds of live cartridges, and a pair of military uniforms concealed in a black polythene bag were recovered.”

Also, “on 19th February 2025 at about 16:00 hrs, operatives of Safer 025 from the Safer Highway Patrol, while on stop-and-search duty along the Benin/Agbor road, arrested three suspects in possession of three locally-made long guns and charms.”

“The suspects, namely Buhari Bala (28 years old), Habibu Sale (25 years old), Abdulwahab Musa (20 years old), and Taisu Bala (20 years old), all male, claimed they were coming from Zaria, Kaduna State, and were heading to a bush before Benin called Igbogri community for a hunting expedition.”

Furthermore, “on 17th January 2025, acting on a tip-off, the DPO of Agbarho Division, CSP Pius Eredei, mobilized and led operatives to the apartment of one Eriga Enyuche (40 years old). Upon searching his one-room apartment, one G-3 rifle and one pump-action gun were recovered, hidden in the ceiling of the room.”

Delta State Government Demotes Two Engineers for Certifying Incomplete Projects

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Government has demoted two engineers for falsely certifying road projects that were not yet completed.

The engineers involved, Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere and Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia, have seen their ranks reduced from Deputy Director to Assistant Director and from Assistant Director to Chief Engineer, respectively.

This decision comes as a result of a letter outlining the findings of a disciplinary committee, signed by William O. Ogolokpe on behalf of the Head of Service.

According to separate letters, it was stated: “Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere has been found guilty of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to follow proper procedures, resulting in your demotion from Deputy Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 16 to Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15, effective January 1, 2024.”

Similarly, “Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia has also been deemed guilty of corruption, dishonesty, and a failure to adhere to established protocols, leading to a reduction from Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15 to Chief Civil Engineer, SGL 14, effective January 1, 2024.”

The letters further indicated that future promotions for both engineers would be delayed, with new effective dates set for January 1, 2028, and January 1, 2027, respectively.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori previously emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward ensuring quality project delivery and accountability for public funds.

In a recent event in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori urged the disciplinary committee to consider mercy in their decisions, opting for rank reduction instead of outright dismissal. He cautioned that future infractions would be dealt with severely according to the law.

Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency Forum Constitutes Inauguration Planning Committee

oplus_0

…As Executives, Members Promise to End APC Reign in the Federal Constituency

By Sunday Apah

In an effort to secure a decisive victory for the Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming 2027 elections, the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum has established various committees to organize its inauguration.

During a meeting held in Asaba, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, the Chairman of the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum, emphasized that the meeting was convened to strategize for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s bid for a second term in 2027.

oplus_0

He highlighted that the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency is the largest in Delta Central senatorial district and have the highest number of kingdoms in Urhobo.

Despite the substantial voter base, Oguma acknowledged that the party had not performed well in the 2023 elections.

oplus_0

However, he expressed optimism that the outcome would be different in 2027 due to the increased unity and focus among party members.

He urged those in attendance to remain united and inclusive, stressing that the forum is intended for all party members within the federal constituency.

Oguma reassured the three Local Government Area PDP Chairmen present that the forum’s intention was not to supplant their roles, but rather to assist them in achieving victory for the PDP in 2027.

oplus_0

Olorogun Eddie Ono-Sorhue, Deputy Chairman of the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency Forum; Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Senior Political Adviser to the Governor; Chief Terry Noah, former Commissioner for Lands and Survey; and Chief Fred Majemite, also a former Commissioner for Lands and Survey, collectively affirmed that the group was formed to bolster the party’s ambitions in 2027.

They acknowledged that, until now, they had not successfully united under one forum with the goal of securing all contestable positions.

“With the backing of the PDP Chairmen in the federal constituency and regular meetings of the forum, we are confident that we will achieve remarkable success,” the leaders stated.

The inauguration organizing committee is led by the three Local Government Area Chairmen: Hon. Jaro Egbo (Ughelli North), Hon. Lucky Avweromre (Ughelli South), and Hon. Vincent Oyibode (Udu).

They were supported by prominent politicians, divided into sub-committees for effective planning and execution.

Those who attended the meeting included Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, Secretary of the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency Forum; Olorogun Festus Ahon, Chief Press Secretary; Hon. Solomon Ahwinahwi; Hon. Samuel Mariere; Kelly Oghenekevwe; Comrade Lucky Ofomukoro; Mr. Ojays Ojigho; Rt. David Siloko; Hon. Peter Uviejitobor; Hon. Onoriode Agofure; Hon. George Oyefia; Chief Henry Sakpra; Chief Moses Odibo; Chief Andrew Orugbo; Hon. Jite Brown; Engr. Chief Christabel Obiuwevbi; Hon. Paul Etaga; Mr. Simon Umudi; Mr. Sunday Kotor; Chief Matthew Kwode; Rt. Hon. Sunday Apah; Prince Bourne Ohwovoriole; Chief Francis Aguonigho; Chief John Ewenede; Chief Emmanuel Ejenake; Chief Ovis Uto; Prince Evuetapha; Olorogun Grace Aghoghovbia; and Very Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo.

Others included Rt. Hon. Karo Goru; Mr. Sylvester Ovbije; Hon. Matthew Oguma; Sir Sunday Mrakpor; Mr. Sylvester Uzoh; Abraham Erhuen, Esq.; Chief A. Kpuwhara; Engr. Agberia Ogheneochuko; Chief Michael Oshetigho; Raymond Edijala; Chief Obruche Oghenejiru; Hon. Eki Afuevure; Chief Richard Kofi; Chief Godwin Adode; Chief Johnbull Asun; Chief Sam Ughujowhovwo; Chief Mrs. Vivian Ogheneovo; Hon. Peter Ogbavweni; Hon. David Henry; Chief Ochuko Imirhe; Engr. Nelson Odien; Comrade William Emuophe; Chief Otto Ogbiruveta; Comrade Vincent Omoko; Chief Tony Ikomoni; Chadu Ojevwe Charles; Robinson Ighorodje; Chief G. Ushere; Jimmy Idiobwa; Michael Akpobasa; and Dr. Peter O.

Late Pa Clark Was a Model of Integrity, Consistency, Fidelity – Oborevwori

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has sent his condolences to the Ijaw nation on the passing of elder statesman Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as the “End of a Great Era.”

Oborevwori described Pa Clark, who was reported to have died on Monday night at the age of 97, as a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervor.

In a condolence message to the family and the Ijaw nation, Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Pa Clark’s life and times as truly well spent in the service of the nation.

He eulogized the late elder statesman for his unwavering and unprecedented dedication to the growth and unity of the nation, especially in the South-South region.

Oborevwori said, “Today, I mourn the passing of an elder statesman, Nigerian patriot, and role model, Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, OON, an icon whose influence traversed Nigeria’s political scene for six decades.

“Teacher, educator, public servant, and politician, Chief Clark was a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervor.

“To the people of the Niger Delta region, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity, and justice for the region.

“His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State on the passing of Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Ijaw nation over this monumental loss. We can all take solace in the saying that Chief Clark came, he saw, and he conquered.

“Pa Clark, an astute lawyer, administrator, patriot, and freedom fighter, was a prominent player in Nigerian politics and a tenacious supporter of the rights of Niger Deltans.”

His passing, which comes just a few days after the death of Afenifere leader Pa Ayo Adebanjo, truly marks the end of a great era.

Southern Youth Leader Promise Lawuru Pays Tribute to Late Pa. Edwin Clark

By Sunday Apah

High Chief Promise Lawuru, the leader of the Southern Youth Movement (SYM), has expressed deep condolences over the passing of Pa. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as the loss of a significant institution.

In a statement personally signed by him and shared with journalists, Chief Lawuru noted that Pa. Clark’s departure is an irreplaceable loss not only for the Ijaw nation but for Nigeria as a whole.

He characterized Pa. Clark as a formidable and courageous figure, always at the forefront of the struggle for the rights and emancipation of the Niger Delta people and the nation at large.

“Pa. Clark’s death is an immeasurable loss to our great nation, particularly to the Ijaw people,” he stated.

“Pa. Clark was more than just a person; he embodied an institution dedicated to nation-building. While death is an inevitable part of life, we can find comfort in our faith and pray for God’s infinite mercy as he transitions to the eternal beyond. Farewell to the Iroko tree.”

BREAKING: PANDEF Leader Edwin Clark Passes Away at 97

By Sunday Apah

Edwin Clark, the esteemed leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has passed away at the age of 97. His demise was confirmed in a statement released by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday.

The announcement read: “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, regrets to inform the public about the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025.”

The family expressed gratitude for the prayers and support they have received during this difficult time and mentioned that further details would be shared later.

Governor Oborevwori Receives Good Governance Award from Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been honored with an award by the Ethiope Baptist Conference, recognizing his significant contributions to human capital development and the promotion of good governance within the state.

The award was presented to Governor Oborevwori during the 11th Annual Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference held in Orerokpe, located in the Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.

In his remarks, Rev. Dr. Friday Ejobee, President of the Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference, lauded the Governor for his exemplary leadership and deep commitment to the development of Delta State.

He highlighted the church’s appreciation for Oborevwori’s dedication, assuring him of the congregation’s prayers for a successful administration.

Ejobee noted that many had underestimated the Governor’s capabilities, but his outstanding achievements have proven naysayers wrong.

“In our discussions at the Executive Committee meeting, we unanimously agreed that Governor Oborevwori deserves recognition for his significant impact on the church both within the state and beyond,” he stated.

He further commended the Governor for sponsoring 250 pilgrims to the Holy Land, reinforcing the bond between governance and faith.

Ejobee expressed confidence in Oborevwori’s aspirations for a second term, emphasizing the church’s support as the time approaches.

In his response, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference for the accolade and acknowledged the crucial role the church has played in his tenure.

Represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, the Governor affirmed his commitment to the church’s mission and the transformative development of Delta State.

He attributed his administration’s success in infrastructure and other sectors to the church’s fervent prayers and solicited continued support to drive further progress for the people of Delta.

“The church’s prayers have been instrumental to the achievements of my administration over the past 19 months,” he stated.

Governor Oborevwori also highlighted his administration’s goals, including restoring Warri’s former glory, enhancing educational access, attracting investors, and creating job opportunities.

“Establishing a campus of Southern Delta University at Ozoro in Orerokpe is part of my administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda aimed at making education more accessible,” he detailed.

During the event, the guest speaker, Rev. Gideon Oyibo, delivered a sermon on the importance of evangelism, emphasizing that all Christians share the responsibility of spreading the gospel.

He encouraged attendees to take an active role in evangelism, underscoring its significance in God’s mission to save souls.

Also awards were presented to other distinguished personalities, including Dr. Caroline Unobunjo, in recognition of their contributions to the church and community service.

Royal Iwere Foundation Collaborates with Junior Achievement to Equip Students with Entrepreneurial Skills

By Sunday Apah 

The Royal Iwere Foundation has collaborated with Junior Achievement Africa and Junior Achievement Nigeria to offer entrepreneurial skills training to students from various secondary schools in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The training program took place on Monday at the palace of His Royal Majesty, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and attracted numerous dignitaries, including the principals of the selected secondary schools.

In her address at the event, titled “Set4LYf,” Her Royal Majesty Olori Ogiame Atuwatse III emphasized the importance of this partnership in empowering young people, particularly girls, with the skills necessary for workforce readiness and economic development.

She explained that being “set for life” means being equipped with the tools for success. “Through this program, we aim to empower girls to transform their communities and contribute positively to the economy, regardless of their backgrounds,” she stated.

Olori Atuwatse III further asserted, “Our fundamental goal in collaborating with Junior Achievement Africa through Set4LYf is to prepare the women of tomorrow today. Every girl, no matter her origin, deserves the chance to chart her own path.”

She urged the students to take the program seriously, viewing it as an investment in their futures, as many already aspire to become successful individuals.

The royal figure reassured the young women that they could achieve their goals, regardless of their familial circumstances, as long as they make informed choices. “After this program, you could become the CEOs of organizations that make a difference, uplifting and transforming the lives of those in your community,” she remarked.

She expressed her appreciation to Mrs. Simi Nwogugu, CEO/President of Junior Achievement Africa, and Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, for launching the program in Warri, alongside previous initiatives in Abuja and Kogi State. She also recognized the contributions of the secondary school principals for enabling their students’ participation.

In their speeches, both Mrs. Nwogugu and Mr. Achebe encouraged students to take the program seriously, emphasizing its potential to turn them into successful entrepreneurs. They highlighted the importance of technological skills in today’s world, noting that those who drive innovation in various fields are just like them.

Other speakers included Honourable Orode Uduaghan, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Girl Child Development, and Lady Diana Ereyitomi Eyo-Enoette, Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The training program involved selected students from seven secondary schools: Dore Numa College, Dore-Dom-Domingos College, Hussey College, Uwangue College, Delta Model College, Nana Model College, and Yonwuren College, all in Warri. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session and group photos.

The five-month entrepreneurial training program will resume tomorrow, with all stakeholders eager to enhance the students’ knowledge and skills.

Anglican Archbishop Urges Support for Governor Oborevwori, Emphasizes Humility Among Public Officials

By Sunday Apah

The Archbishop of Bendel Province and Bishop of the Ughelli Diocese (Anglican Communion), His Grace Most Rev. Cyril Odutemu, has called on Deltans, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the quest to advance the state’s development.

This appeal was made on Sunday during the dedication of the Chapel of Grace & Mercy, a project initiated and funded by Hon. Jaro Egbo, the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, at Camp Moses Vineyard in Abovwe-Ughelli.

Archbishop Odutemu urged all Deltans and residents of Delta State to support the governor in implementing his M.O.R.E Agenda, praising the governor for his strong start and the positive impact of his initiatives across the three Senatorial districts of the state.

He remarked, “The days of division among the Urhobos and Deltans are behind us. Let’s not fall into the trap of divisiveness. Even if it’s not your turn today, it might be tomorrow. We must unite to help Governor Sheriff Oborevwori succeed.”

Earlier, during a church service marking a thanksgiving by Olorogun (Barr) Jaro Egbo at All Saints Anglican Cathedral in Otor-Iwreko, Ughelli, Odutemu encouraged all political and public office holders to exhibit humility and enact laws that benefit the public.

His homily, titled “Humility,” drew from 1 Peter 5:6, where he stressed the importance of following the humble path of Jesus Christ. He encouraged leaders to reflect on their humility, especially during trials and within their respective roles.

In his remarks of gratitude, Olorogun Jaro Egbo expressed his thankfulness for the blessings in his life and family. He shared that he never anticipated becoming the chairperson of Ughelli North but believed it was God’s will, facilitated by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s endorsement.

“I did not seek any favors or campaign for this position; I trusted in God, and He favored me with His blessings,” he noted.

The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Bishop Blessing Erifeta of the Anglican Diocese of Sapele, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, various traditional rulers and others.

Nobles 90 Honors Professors Ogwezzy, Ifelunini in ‘Hall of Champions,’ Inspires Students to Value Education

By Sunday Apah

The Unique Nobles 90 Association recently celebrated the induction of Professor Abanum Innocent Ifelunini, a Development Economics scholar at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Professor Michael Chukwujindu Ogwezzy, a Human Rights Law expert at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), into its prestigious Hall of Champions for Academic Excellence.

The induction ceremony took place at De Goodies Garden Hotel in Abbi, gathering a diverse audience that included dignitaries, alumni, students, and faculty from Abbi Grammar School, alongside members of the Class of 1990, who comprise the Nobles 90 Association.

In his opening remarks, Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, Chairman of the Unique Nobles 90 Association, stressed the significance of celebrating academic success, particularly in a time when some young individuals mistakenly view education as a “scam.” He remarked, “Education is not a scam but a gateway to sustainable living. Today, we honor two exceptional alumni who have made significant contributions to academia and brought pride to our school.”

He continued, “The path to becoming a professor is filled with sacrifices, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. These outstanding scholars, as former students of Abbi Grammar School, have not only excelled in their fields but have also become symbols of inspiration for future generations.

“Their accomplishments embody the values of hard work and perseverance instilled in us by our alma mater. Today, we proudly celebrate their dedication to expanding knowledge and nurturing future leaders.”

Onitsha added, “Their achievements reinforce our shared belief that education is the most potent tool for transformation. As we honor them today, we also renew our commitment as an association to fostering excellence, unity, and the pursuit of higher achievements.”

Dr. Jeff Chisunum, the keynote speaker, echoed this sentiment in his address titled “Education is Not a Scam.” He underscored that education is foundational for human advancement, offering essential knowledge, skills, and wisdom for addressing life’s challenges.

He encouraged students to ignore negative perceptions of education and to look up to role models like Professors Ogwezzy and Ifelunini. “Education empowers individuals with the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges and seize opportunities. It is a transformative journey that extends beyond the classroom, shaping our identities and futures.”

Dr. Chisunum contrasted education with fraudulent schemes, stating, “Unlike deceptive schemes designed to manipulate, education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for intellectual growth.”

Sir Godsday Owetem, representing the Abbi Grammar School Old Students Association (AGSOSA), praised the Class of 1990 for honoring the professors, calling them “pathfinders” in their fields.

He criticized society’s tendency to idolize individuals with dubious wealth while neglecting the celebration of academic excellence and expressed AGSOSA’s support for the initiatives of the Unique Nobles 90 Association.

In their remarks, Professors Ifelunini and Ogwezzy expressed their gratitude for the recognition, urging students to strive for success that surpasses their own achievements. Professor Ifelunini encouraged students to “aim for academic accolades greater than ours,” while Professor Ogwezzy reaffirmed the vital role education plays in achieving success and advancing society.

The ceremony culminated in the presentation of award plaques to the inductees by traditional prime ministers from Abbi. The event served as a powerful reminder to the younger generation about the importance of prioritizing education and aspiring for excellence, reinforcing the idea that academic achievement is one of life’s most significant honors.

Latest Stories

Trending Reports