The people of Igbide Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State, have commended the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Surveys, Chief Emamusi Obiodeh, for delivering key grassroots development projects in the community.

The projects delivered include the renovation of a modern market and the construction of a school pavilion at Owodokpokpo Grammar School.

The newly renovated market is expected to boost local commerce and empower small-scale traders, while the school pavilion will provide a conducive space for academic and social activities. Both projects, located in Owodokpokpo-Igbide, were personally funded by Chief Obiodeh as part of his corporate social responsibility.

Speaking during an inspection of the completed projects, Chief Obiodeh emphasized his commitment to improving the welfare of his people and contributing meaningfully to local development.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the opportunity to serve, noting that the governor’s development-driven leadership continues to inspire appointees to deliver impactful projects across the state.

The Commissioner urged residents of Igbide Kingdom to sustain peace and unity, stressing that stability is essential for attracting further development.

He also called on the community to continue supporting Governor Oborevwori’s administration, whose policies and programmes have positively impacted Igbide, the Isoko nation, and Delta State at large.

Community leaders and residents expressed gratitude to Chief Obiodeh for remembering his roots and addressing critical needs within the community.

They noted that the market will enhance economic activities, particularly for women and small-scale traders, while the school pavilion will enrich learning and extracurricular engagements.

Chief Obiodeh assured the people of Igbide that more development projects will be attracted to the area, reaffirming his dedication to leveraging his office for the benefit of his constituents.

Comrade Orogun disclosed that the drastic reduction in illegal bunkering and improved monitoring have disrupted entrenched criminal networks across the Niger Delta.

According to him, “It is expected that such elements would resist reforms that threaten their illicit sources of income.

Orogun urged Nigerians to support initiatives that promote transparency, security, and economic growth, rather than listening to what he described as “noise from displaced beneficiaries of illegality.”

“As ethnic leaders from key oil-producing communities, we understand the current arrangement and how beneficial it has been, not just to our local economies but to the Niger Delta at large,” he said.

The INYA President recalled that stakeholders under the aegis of the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Leaders Forum had, about two years ago in Port Harcourt, critically reviewed pipeline surveillance operations and observed a clear departure from the ineffective structures that existed before Tantita’s engagement.

According to him, prior to the current arrangement, pipeline security was largely informal and ineffective, with little or no personnel on ground and funds often handed to individuals without accountability.

“You could hardly find anyone physically guarding pipelines. What existed was a system where money was given to individuals to ‘manage’ surveillance, but the work was not done and the resources never reached the communities,” he said.

He explained that the introduction of a community-based model by Tantita changed the narrative, as locals were directly recruited, verified by community leaders, and empowered to protect infrastructure within their domains.

“Today, people from the communities are responsible for safeguarding pipelines. They are visible, accountable and directly involved. That is why you are seeing increased participation and improved outcomes,” he added.

Orogun noted that the impact of the new system is evident in Nigeria’s crude oil output, which he said has risen from below 700,000 barrels per day before 2022 to about 1.7 to 1.8 million barrels per day currently.

He attributed the increase to the drastic reduction in illegal bunkering and improved monitoring across pipeline corridors.

Reacting to criticisms of the system, the youth leader questioned the identity and motives of those calling for decentralisation, alleging that many of them were beneficiaries of the old, flawed system or individuals previously linked to oil theft.

“I saw a publication signed by a faceless group calling on President Bola Tinubu, and one of the signatories had been prosecuted by the EFCC for oil bunkering. These are the people making the noise,” he alleged.

He further argued that the current surveillance framework had driven criminal elements out of business, making it inevitable for them to resist reforms.

“When you chase people out of illegal activities they have depended on for years, you don’t expect them to keep quiet. They will fight back using propaganda,” he said.

While acknowledging that crude oil theft may still occur in areas outside Tantita’s operational mandate, particularly on the high seas, Orogun stressed that such responsibilities fall under the Nigerian Navy and relevant government agencies, not the surveillance contractor.

“Tantita is not responsible for crude oil exports or offshore activities. If theft occurs in those areas, the appropriate authorities should be held accountable,” he clarified.

He also dismissed claims that Tantita had failed to effectively engage local communities, insisting that thousands of youths across Isoko, Ndokwa and Urhobo areas had been employed through a structured process endorsed by traditional rulers and community leaders.

According to him, the decentralisation being advocated by critics is a guise for self-interest, identifying three categories of agitators: displaced oil bunkers, individuals seeking financial gains, and those hoping to take over the contract.

“These are not people acting in the interest of the Niger Delta or Nigeria. They are driven by personal gain and should not be taken seriously,” he said.

Orogun added that the ongoing Senate probe into pipeline surveillance contracts should not be misinterpreted as an indictment of the current system, noting that oversight and investigation are normal in a democratic setting.

He maintained that from the grassroots perspective, the existing arrangement is working and delivering tangible results.

“For us on ground, the truth is clear,  the system is working. Illegal bunkering has reduced, communities are involved, and production has improved. Those complaining are those who have been cut off from illegal benefits,” he stated.

History teaches a simple but powerful lesson: nations and communities rise not merely through the presence of leaders, but through the quality of leadership they cultivate and the strategic vision they pursue. Dynamic leadership has always been rooted in discovery, foresight, and the courage to confront the most pressing realities of human existence.

This principle has quietly but profoundly shaped the trajectory of representation in Delta Central Senatorial District since the return of democratic governance in 1999. The Urhobo Nation, blessed with intellect, enterprise, and resilience, has produced leaders who understood that occupying office is not the ultimate goal—building influence that benefits the people is.

One of the earliest embodiments of this principle was the very distinguished late Senator Felix Ibru. During his tenure in the early years of the Fourth Republic, he provided a model of leadership defined by dignity, vision, and unwavering commitment to the Urhobo people. Senator Ibru was not merely a political actor; he was a statesman whose life represented the convergence of private success and public service.

Following this defining era came another phase of consequential leadership under Senator Ovie Omo-Agege. Rising to the status of a ranking senator in the National Assembly, he demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of the mechanics of national politics.

Today, the responsibility of representing Delta Central in the Senate rests with Senator Ede Dafinone, a first-term legislator who has already begun to demonstrate the early indicators of strategic leadership. In a relatively short period, his interventions—particularly within the health sector—have begun to address pressing community needs. Free healthcare initiatives, medical outreach programs, and community health support efforts have provided relief to citizens who would otherwise struggle to access basic services.

Beyond healthcare, Senator Dafinone has extended scholarships to indigent students, created employment pathways for numerous Urhobo youths across the country, and worked in constructive collaboration with the Executive Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to facilitate the development of physical infrastructure within Delta Central.

These actions reflect an emerging pattern of purposeful representation. Yet beyond the visible projects lies something equally important: the deliberate cultivation of influence within the Senate itself.

Influence within legislative institutions does not emerge instantly. It is the product of credibility, patience, strategic networking, and consistent engagement with the leadership structure of the chamber. In the Nigerian Senate, political leverage is built through relationships, committee responsibilities, and the trust of colleagues.

In this regard, Senator Dafinone appears to be pursuing a methodical path. Within three years of entering the Senate as a first-time legislator, he has already earned the confidence of the chamber’s leadership to the extent of being appointed Vice Chairman of two Senate committees. Such appointments are not distributed casually; they signal recognition, trust, and the emergence of a voice that colleagues are prepared to work with.

For the Urhobo Nation, this development should not be viewed lightly. It represents the early stages of influence accumulation within the national legislative system.

However, history also shows that there have been periods when Delta Central sent representatives to the Senate who served only a single term without establishing substantial national influence. While their service is acknowledged, the reality of national politics is unforgiving: influence requires time to build. Without that time, the ability to effectively negotiate for the interests of one’s people becomes severely limited.

This is why the current moment demands careful strategic thinking from the Urhobo Nation.

Senator Ede Dafinone has spent three years laying the foundations of influence within the Senate. Interrupting that trajectory prematurely risks weakening the political presence of Delta Central at the national level. Political capital, once disrupted, is difficult to rebuild.

From a strategic standpoint, continuity at this stage offers clear advantages. Allowing Senator Dafinone to secure a second term would position him as a ranking senator—an institutional status that significantly enhances legislative leverage. With seniority comes greater access, deeper influence within committee structures, and stronger negotiating power within the broader architecture of the National Assembly.

Such influence translates directly into developmental outcomes for constituents.

At the same time, the Urhobo Nation must remain forward-looking in its leadership strategy. Political development is not about elevating a single individual indefinitely; it is about cultivating a pipeline of capable leaders who can represent the people across different periods.Agege has made his mark, let Dafinone cement his influence then another can take over after- with this Urhobo political generals will only increase efficiently

By adopting this long-term approach, the Urhobo Nation gradually constructs a formidable network of political actors at the national level—men and women capable of speaking with authority, shaping policy conversations, and advocating effectively for the interests of our people.

Such a strategy transforms representation from a temporary occupation of office into a sustained system of influence.

If, however, we repeatedly return already-established figures to the same positions simply for immediate advantage, we risk undermining the broader objective of leadership multiplication. It may appear like a short-term victory, but strategically it becomes a long-term limitation.

After all, a single tree can never make a forest.

The Urhobo Nation must therefore think beyond the immediate election cycle. Our future strength lies in expanding our political footprint, nurturing emerging leaders, and investing deliberately in the development of our human resources.

Emmanuel Omohavwa, A Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Delta

Popular Nigerian comedian,Skit maker and content creator, Ernest Tedjeye Oruese, widely known as HK Chairman and also called Diamonddc, has called on youths across the country to stay away from cultism, hard drugs and other criminal activities, emphasizing that young people have a brighter future if they choose the right path.

The 30-year-old entertainer made the appeal recently while interacting with youths in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. He urged them to avoid social vices such as fighting, smoking hard drugs, cultism, stealing, kidnapping, armed robbery and internet fraud, advising them to instead focus on activities that will positively shape their future.

According to him, many youths fall into crime because of the desire for quick money, but he stressed that discipline, creativity and dedication to legitimate work can lead to lasting success and recognition.

HK Chairman, who is in a relationship with Pamela Ofuedje, popularly known as Pamela DC, is widely known for his humorous skits and unique comic style. His expressive facial reactions and natural comic timing often make audiences burst into laughter even before he delivers his punchlines.

The comedian described himself as a “born comedian,” explaining that while growing up he often entertained friends and family with jokes, making people around him laugh and forget their worries during play and social gatherings.

He officially discovered and began pursuing his comedy talent in 2022 when he started creating comedy content in Warri, Delta State, a city widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s major breeding grounds for successful comedians.

In 2024, he relocated to Lagos in search of bigger opportunities in the entertainment industry, where he began focusing more on online comedy and digital content creation.

His skits, which often portray humorous but realistic situations, have gradually gained attention on social media platforms, helping him build a growing fan base.

According to HK Chairman, his comedy content is not meant to promote fraud or illegal activities but rather to expose the hidden lifestyles and consequences surrounding such practices, while encouraging young people to make better choices.

Born on August 15, 1996, in Warri, Delta State, Ernest Tedjeye Oruese hails from Opkpare- Olomu in Ughelli South Local Government Area, while his mother is from Okpara Waterside, a community in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.

He expressed hope that his message and comedy career will continue to inspire youths to pursue positive and productive paths in life.

The Senator representing the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has been conferred with the distinguished traditional title of “Garkuwa Gamji” by Alhaji Farouq Umar in recognition of his longstanding support and commitment to the Gamji Emirate.

The conferment ceremony, held under the auspices of the Gamji Emirate, celebrated Senator Dafinone’s contributions to strengthening unity and fostering collaboration across regional lines in Nigeria.

In his remarks, Senator Dafinone expressed deep gratitude for the honour, describing it as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of unity and shared purpose in nation-building. He noted that the recognition holds special meaning given his longstanding relationship with the Emirate.

“I was deeply honoured this afternoon to be conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Garkuwa Gamji,” he said, adding that his connection with the Emirate spans many years of active engagement and participation in its activities.

The lawmaker further reflected on his family’s historical ties to the institution, recalling how he often represented his late father at Gamji events. He highlighted his father’s strong and respected relationship with the Emirate, which helped foster bonds between different regions of the country.

According to the senator, his late father, who also served in the Senate, was committed to strengthening ties between Northern Nigeria and the South-South region, while actively supporting the initiatives of the Gamji institution.

Speaking comparatively, Senator Dafinone reaffirmed his dedication to upholding these values, emphasizing that unity, cooperation, and mutual respect remain central to his public service and personal philosophy.

In a related development, our correspondent also gathered that the federal lawmaker has also been appointed as a member of the Advisory Board of the Arewa Gamji Emirate Royal Council, further entrusting him with responsibilities to support the institution’s vision and promote national integration.

...Inaugurates 31 kilometres Ohoror-Bomadi Road Amidst Praises

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday declared that his administration is deliberately rewriting the development story of riverine communities through massive infrastructure investments and people-focused projects, policies, and programmes.

The Governor made the assertion during the commissioning of the reconstructed 31-kilometre Ohoror–Bomadi Road, a strategic corridor linking Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Burutu, Bomadi and Burutu Local Government Areas.

Oborevwori described the project as a major milestone in his administration’s resolve to ensure equitable development across all parts of the state, particularly the historically underserved riverine areas.

“We are resolved to rewrite the story of our riverine communities. Our administration is committed to ensuring that sustainable development gets to every part of the state, regardless of terrain or location,” he insisted.

He noted that the road project would significantly boost socio-economic activities in the affected communities by improving connectivity, facilitating trade, and enhancing access to essential services.

According to him, the project will positively impact at least five local government areas, opening up economic opportunities and reducing travel time across the region.

The Governor emphasized that infrastructure development remains a critical driver of economic growth, noting that improved road networks would connect farmers to markets, attract investments and strengthen rural-urban integration.

Providing details of the project, Oborevwori explained that the scope of work included extensive engineering interventions tailored to the swampy terrain, such as sand filling, soil stabilization, concrete reinforcement, embankment protection and asphalt surfacing. He added that the road spans widths of between 6.5 and 10.3 metres, with hard shoulders in some sections.

He also highlighted other ongoing and completed projects across the state, including roads, bridges and educational infrastructure, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering the MORE Agenda anchored on fairness, justice and equity.

Oborevwori disclosed that the State Executive Council recently approved projects worth over N400 billion across critical sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, power, judiciary and security.

On power supply, the Governor said his administration is taking proactive steps to address electricity challenges through policy reforms and infrastructure upgrades, including the extension of transmission lines and installation of transformers in previously underserved communities.

He revealed that some communities that had been without electricity for over a decade have now been reconnected to the national grid, improving living conditions and economic prospects.

The Governor also announced plans to strengthen security across the state, including the construction of police divisions in all 25 local government areas for State Police and a Special Protection Base to enhance safety.

Earlier, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the 31-kilometre road project traverses multiple communities and features modern engineering solutions designed to ensure durability in difficult terrain.

In his welcome address, Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, expressed appreciation to the Governor for what he described as a historic intervention, noting that the area had not witnessed such a project in over 16 years.

He said the road would drastically reduce accidents, improve livelihoods and ease the movement of people and goods across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the people, community leaders and stakeholders including, Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Senator James Manager, Hon. Oboro Preyor, HRM Pere Luke Kalalanama and 1st Vice Chairman of Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, and Mrs Flora Brisibo, commended the Governor for his inclusive governance style and commitment to development, assuring him and President Bola Tinubu of their continued support and massive votes in the 2027 elections.

They noted that the completion of the road has brought relief to residents, many of whom had suffered economic hardship due to poor access and high transportation costs.

The event drew a large crowd of residents, political leaders and traditional rulers, reflecting widespread appreciation for the project and its expected impact on the area.

A kidnapped victim who was abducted at Agbarha junction in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State,while heading to Abraka has been released after the payment of a ransom via transfer to a Point of Sale, PoS operator in Rivers State.

The victim simply identified as, ‘Robor 18, surname withheld, was lured by a female suspect through Tik Tok, it was learned.

Narrating his ordeal to newsmen, Robor said, ‘As a make-up artist, he was contacted through his TikTok handle by an unknown female client who claimed to be in Abraka last Thursday.

“The lady told me that she liked my work and she wanted me to come over to Abraka to make up her and her sister that would be getting married by Saturday.

“After our discussion and agreement, she sent me six thousand naira (N6,000) for transportation to Abraka and I embarked on the journey the next day been a Friday against the Saturday event.

“Before getting to Agbarha, she called me and asked me to wait for his brothers that are coming to Ughelli, after spending about 30 minutes, two mature men approached me and ask of my name which I told them.

“They said they came to carry me to Abraka and the only thing I could remember was that they tapped me and I entered their vehicle which I couldn’t recollect.

“I regained consciousness when my mother called me to inquire if I had gotten to my destination and one of them brought out a knife to threaten me that If I Iove my life I should answer my mother in confidence which I did.

“On getting to their destination, I was blind fold and taken to an unknown building where I met other persons , two boys and one girl that were tied down. As we were beaten.

“They took my phone from me and asked me to unlock it which I did, and they asked me if I was into ‘Yahoo’ and I said no and after searching my phone, they separated me from others and naked me.

“They called my mother and my other relatives and sent her a matchete after their discussion through a WhatsApp message.I didn’t know what they discussed on Saturday night.

“Just this morning, Sunday, they took me into their vehicle and warned me not to shout if I come outside the compound which I obeyed and they dropped me at Rumuokoro junction and I was given twelve thousand naira,N12,000 to come back to Ughelli.

“They took my phone and the told me that they will send it back through waybill from Port Harcourt to me anytime they ready to do so.”

The joyous mother, Juliet said, on that faithful Friday at about 4:pm I got a call through my son’s phone and the voice from the other side told me that my son is in their custody and if i want to see him alive I should send them seven million naira.(N7,000,000)

“I told them that I don’t have any money on me, after a while that called again that I should send four million,(N4,000,000) I told them I don’t have such amount and they reduced it to five hundred thousand naira.

“After much, they reduced the ransom to N300,000 and they sent a PoS account number for the money to be paid into, sympathizers helped to raise the amount that was eventually sent.

“After sending the money, they asked me to send another twenty five thousand naira,(N25,000) for transport which I did and while I was in the my prayer closet, I got the call that my son has been released.

The remains of late Chief (Mrs.) Violet Egirani, mother of the wife of the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mrs. Amaba Ogbuku has been laid to rest in Anyama Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The late Chief (Mrs.) Egirani was the wife of late Michael Egirani, Obanema of Anyama Community in Ogbia LGA.

The deceased who died at the ripe age 91 years lived an exemplary and selfless life leaving a legacy of kindness, courage and influence.

she would be remembered for humility and selfless leadership.

In her tribute, Amaba Ogbuku attributed her mother’s longevity to love for people, hospitality, and kindness.

Amaba Ogbuku described her mother as a beacon of love, simplicity, humility, and patience, whose doors were always open to everyone.

“She was most loved for her hospitality, embracing people, and showing love. I never saw her frown or quarrel with anyone,” she said.

Amaba Ogbuku, who credited her mother for shaping her life, said her legacy would live on through the countless lives she touched.

“I am a product of her, and the fact that I’m standing here today is a testament to her impact on humanity,” she said.

Describing her mother, Amaba Ogbuku said, “Mummy, your memories will continue to inspire us. Your simplicity, humility, and hospitality will forever be remembered. You moulded me to be upright, and I’ll always cherish your words and advice.”

She expressed gratitude to those who attended her mother’s burial saying, “Thank you for making this a success. The Lord Almighty will reward you for your kindness.”

The family of Mr John Ajakapomewhe of Emevor Town in Isoko.North Local. Government Area; and the family of late Umukoro Isaac of Afiesere Town, in Ughelli North Local Government Area, both of Delta State, have invited relatives, friends, associates and well-wishers to the traditional marriage between their beloved Children, Taye and Ejaeta, respectively.

A joint statement by both families states that the traditional wedding will be held on Saturday March 28, 2026, at No 6, Awaro Street, opposite James Welch School, Emevor, Isoko North, Delta State.
The statement called on everyone to join in making the event a special and grand one for the couple and their families.