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Grassroots Governance Model: Ajede Meets Ukwuani People, Fields Questions, Reels Out Scorecard

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There was a beam of accountability moments as  the Executive Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, Hon. Barr. C.S. Possible Ajede, convened a Town Hall meeting to update the Ukwuani People on his administration’s progress in governance.

The event held on 13th April 2026 and was one of its kind within Ndokwa constituency, heralding promises of transparency, accountability and more work to be done. It also serves as a governance model for the sister local government areas in Ndokwa constituency to follow.

At the meeting, the Chairman outlined the council’s receipts and detailed the projects funded by those resources. He carefully traced the administration’s journey from its inception to the present, explaining how allocations and locally generated revenue (IGR) have been spent.

He also addressed the security situation in each community, describing actions taken to confront the herdsmen related disturbances that have been damaging farmlands, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring farmers can safely cultivate their land.

The two-term Chairman reviewed other sectors as well, including education, where he highlighted efforts to support learners through provision of basic materials and financial assistance. On agriculture, he explained that the administration has planned interventions to boost production across the LGA, noting that 2% of allocations are earmarked for agricultural development in recognition of Ukwuani as an agrarian LGA.

Regarding healthcare, Ajede emphasized continued support through the mobile healthcare program, which provides free treatment to Ukwuani residents. He also commented on the Ukwuani Mass Transit (Ejelunor), stating how the transport system has helped reduce travel costs within and beyond the LGA.

The Chairman concluded his remarks by affirming that his administration will continue to work for the welfare of Ukwuani people in line with the MORE Agenda of His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his DO MORE Agenda.

In a Q/A interactive session, stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community members who attended the Town Hall Meeting, praised the Chairman’s leadership in their various feedbacks/responses, and expressed appreciation for convening the Town Hall Meeting and transparently accounting for the use of the people’s collective patrimony.

“Your investment in Asaba is a boost to the economic fortunes and transformation of the City,” Asagba of Asaba tells Obi Cubana

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The Asagba of Asaba has praised leading Nigerian entrepreneur Obinna Iyiegbu for significantly raising the scale of private sector investment in the Delta State capital, describing his growing footprint as a major catalyst for economic transformation and urban development. The monarch made this remark during a courtesy visit by Obi Cubana and his delegation to the Asagba Palace, where both parties engaged on the future of Asaba as a thriving investment destination.

According to the Asagba, investments of the magnitude being championed by Obi Cubana—spanning real estate, hospitality, and lifestyle infrastructure—are not only redefining the physical outlook of the city but also strengthening investor confidence and stimulating broad-based economic activity. He noted that such visionary projects have far-reaching impact across sectors, driving job creation, boosting commerce, and attracting new streams of capital into the region.

He further emphasized that Asaba is increasingly positioning itself as a competitive urban centre within Nigeria, with a rapidly expanding hospitality industry and a growing pipeline of high-value developments. While acknowledging the strides made by cities like Abuja, the monarch maintained that Asaba is fast emerging as a formidable alternative, with Lagos as its only true rival in terms of scale and commercial energy.

Highlighting ongoing and future-facing initiatives, the Asagba referenced major development plans such as the proposed waterfront project, “Legacy of the Sun,” spanning over 351 hectares, alongside the city’s strategic proximity to Onitsha and its integration into the wider eastern economic corridor. He noted that these factors collectively place Asaba at the centre of a dynamic regional growth ecosystem.

The monarch also underscored the importance of innovation and technology in shaping the city’s future, pointing to ongoing engagements with federal authorities and the presence of key institutions such as the Digital Bridge Institute, Admiralty University in Ibusa, and other emerging tech hubs supported by both government and private sector stakeholders. According to him, these developments form the foundation for a long-term vision of establishing a vibrant technology and innovation hub in the region.

Reaffirming the commitment of the traditional institution, the Asagba assured that the Asaba community remains open and supportive to entrepreneurs and investors willing to partner in the city’s growth. “We are not waiting for government alone. There is much we can do as a community, and we are ready to support genuine investors who are prepared to contribute to our collective progress,” he stated.

In his response, Obi Cubana expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated his commitment to driving sustainable investment that creates lasting value. He noted that his projects, including Cubana Millennium City and the upcoming Cubana Wonderland, are designed to go beyond commercial returns by creating integrated environments where people can live, work, and experience modern lifestyle offerings.

“Our vision is to build a future anchored on opportunity, innovation, and long-term value. We believe strongly in the potential of Asaba, and we are committed to contributing meaningfully to its growth story,” he said.

The engagement at the Asagba Palace reflects a growing alignment between traditional leadership and private sector investors, a partnership widely seen as critical to accelerating Asaba’s emergence as one of Nigeria’s most promising economic frontiers.

NUC Resource Verification Visit to Proposed Adin Open University: A Defining Step Toward Expanding Access to Quality Higher Education in Nigeria

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The recent resource verification visit by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to the proposed Adin Open University, Ubulu-Unor, Delta State, represents far more than a routine regulatory exercise; it is a defining moment in Nigeria’s ongoing quest to balance expanded access with uncompromising quality in higher education.

At a time when the nation continues to grapple with a widening gap between the number of university admission seekers and the limited institutional capacity, this visit highlights a critical national imperative: to broaden educational opportunities without eroding academic standards.

Nigeria’s higher education system remains under immense strain. Each year, hundreds of thousands of qualified candidates are unable to secure admission, not due to lack of merit, but because of systemic constraints.

Within this context, the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) model is no longer a mere alternative; it is an urgent necessity. It offers flexible, inclusive, and scalable pathways to education, particularly for working professionals, women, and underserved populations.

The vision driving Adin Open University, championed by its founder, Hon. (Pastor) Paul Azukaego Adingwupu, speaks directly to this national challenge.

It is a vision anchored on accessibility, quality, affordability, and the democratisation of knowledge – principles that align closely with Nigeria’s broader development aspirations.

However, vision alone is insufficient. The true measure of any institution lies not in its aspirations, but in its ability to institutionalise excellence.

While physical infrastructure is important, it must be complemented by strong governance frameworks, credible academic structures, technological readiness, and an unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability.

This is where the role of the National Universities Commission remains indispensable. As the custodian of quality assurance in Nigeria’s university system, the Commission’s resource verification process serves as a vital safeguard; ensuring that new institutions meet established academic, administrative, and technological benchmarks before being licensed to operate.

Encouragingly, statements from the Acting Vice-Chancellor Designate, Sheidu Sule, reflect a firm commitment to global best practices, particularly in strengthening the university’s ODL architecture, governance systems, and academic delivery mechanisms.

Equally noteworthy is the endorsement from key stakeholders, including the Delta State Commissioner for Technical Education, Hon. Smart Ijeoma Ufoh, who has underscored the institution’s potential to drive socio-economic development, create opportunities, and positively impact the host community.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Delta State Chapter, Godfrey Chukwudifu Osakwe, commended the founder’s longstanding contributions to educational development, particularly his role in supporting the NUC database project.

Yet, commendation must be tempered with caution.
Nigeria’s higher education landscape is already replete with institutions grappling with challenges of quality, funding, and governance.

The establishment of Adin Open University must not follow this trajectory. Instead, it should aspire to set a new benchmark, demonstrating that expansion and excellence are not mutually exclusive, but mutually reinforcing.

This moment, therefore, transcends the creation of another university. It is about redefining what a modern Nigerian university should represent in an increasingly competitive global knowledge economy.

As the licensing process progresses, all stakeholders, promoters, regulators, and the academic community; must remain steadfast in their commitment to quality, sustainability, and institutional integrity.

Nigeria does not simply need more universities; it needs institutions that will endure, inspire, and contribute meaningfully to national transformation.

Tompolo @55: DOPF Celebrates A Nationalist, Regional Reformer

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High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has extended warm felicitations to the renowned Niger Delta leader and philanthropist, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, on the occasion of his 55th birthday anniversary, celebrated on April 12.

In a press release signed by its Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha-FCIIMS, MNIPR, the Forum described Tompolo as a “Niger Delta liberator and a renewed force for good,” whose contributions to the peace, stability, and socio-economic advancement of the region remain significant and commendable. The group noted that his evolution into a leading figure in private security and community development reflects a deep commitment to the progress of the Niger Delta.

“At 55, we celebrate not just the life of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, but a legacy of resilience, courage, and transformation. From his days as a champion of the Niger Delta struggle to his present role as a stabilising force, Tompolo has remained steadfast in his commitment to the peace, unity, and development of the region. His journey reflects a rare blend of strength and compassion that continues to inspire millions.”

DOPF particularly applauded his leadership role through Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, emphasising that the company’s operations have been instrumental in curbing oil theft, safeguarding critical national assets, and restoring a measure of peace and stability across the region. According to the Forum, these efforts have not only enhanced crude oil production but also contributed to national economic recovery.

“Through your leadership in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, you have demonstrated that sustainable peace is achievable when local knowledge, community trust, and strategic coordination are effectively harnessed. Your efforts have significantly reduced pipeline vandalism and oil theft, thereby strengthening national revenue and restoring confidence in the Niger Delta.”

The Forum further acknowledged Tompolo’s growing philanthropic footprint, describing him as a man who has continued to give back generously to his people and support initiatives that uplift communities. It stressed that his renewed focus on humanitarian service has endeared him to many and reinforced his legacy as a leader dedicated to the well-being of the Niger Delta.

“We also commend your expanding philanthropic engagements, which have touched countless lives across the region. Your renewed commitment to humanitarian service underscores a deeper sense of responsibility to your people and reflects the true essence of leadership anchored on service and sacrifice.”

DOPF also prayed for God’s continued protection, sound health, and wisdom for the celebrant, expressing hope that he will continue to play a vital role in fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development in the region.

Ahead of 2027: Council of Clergy Dumps Rev Waive, Rallies Behind Ominimini for Reps Seat

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A powerful coalition of Christian clerics across Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency has thrown its weight behind Chief Dr. Ominimini Obiuwevbi ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring him the most competent and compassionate choice to represent the constituency at the House of Representatives.

The endorsement, announced on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, followed a high-level gathering of General Overseers, Archbishops, Bishops, Reverends and Pastors drawn from multiple denominations, who converged at Ominimini’s Ughelli residence in a show of unity and political direction. The clerical bloc, led by Bishop Billion Djanere and Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete, also signaled a clear shift in allegiance, effectively abandoning Rev Francis Waive’s camp in favour of what they described as “tested leadership and purposeful representation.”

Speaking at the event, Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete of Ark of Faith Fulfillment Assembly, Ughelli, gave a strong endorsement of Ominimini’s candidacy, emphasising his personal qualities and track record, stressing that they have lost faith in Hon. Waive’s representation.

“Chief Ominimini is a compassionate man with a listening ear, excellent educational qualifications and legislative experience required to represent the good people of Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly,” he stated.
“He has consistently advocated for the development of the Urhobo Nation and the creation of Urhobo State — aspirations that can only be effectively pursued from the National Assembly.”

Akpodiete further stressed that Ominimini’s longstanding commitment to the Urhobo cause sets him apart in a race that will demand both political will and legislative depth.

In his remarks, Bishop Billion Djanere underscored the strategic importance of electing a candidate with proven governance experience, pointing to Ominimini’s tenure as Speaker of the Ughelli North Legislative Arm and his role as a Commissioner with the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).

“The gains and benefits of having Dr. Ominimini at the National Assembly are enormous,” Djanere declared. “His track record speaks volumes. We are not just endorsing a candidate; we are endorsing competence, experience and a future of effective representation.”

He charged the clergy present to take the message beyond the meeting, urging them to mobilize grassroots support across churches and communities.

“Go back to your congregations and preach the message of Chief Ominimini for House of Representatives 2027. This is a collective mission,” he added.

The event reached its climax with a unanimous voice vote endorsing Ominimini as the preferred candidate of the Christian community within the federal constituency. The clerics pledged to galvanize broader interdenominational support and extend their mobilization to other Christian bodies across the region.

“We are united in this decision,” the group affirmed. “We will mobilize across all Christian denominations to ensure that Chief Ominimini emerges victorious in 2027.”

The gathering drew an extensive list of prominent religious leaders, including Bishop Billion Djanere, Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete, Prelate Prof. D. Joshua, Bishop Prof. E. O. Ugheni, Bishop Dr. J. E. Obahor, Bishop Mathew Orubu, Bishop Dr. E. I. John, Bishop Dr. Oriokpa, Rev. Mrs. Victoria Oshevire, Bishop Macpherson Oweh, Apostle Epwe Roland, Bishop Dickson Obiuwoh, Pastor Simeon Oduesie, Rev. Harry Odede, Pastor Saniyo Obiuwevbi, Rev. Gabriel Nyenyen, Rev. Chris Michael, Rev. Canon Lucky Obregha, Apostle Peter Ikuku, Bishop Mrs. Ifaka, Prophet Paul, Saint Dr. Goddowell Ivworin, Rev. Dr. Joseph Akpobome, Rev. Canon Okoro Johnbull Obrorhie, Rev. Dr. Joel, among others.

The endorsement marks a significant political development in the Ughelli/Udu federal constituency, as religious leaders—often key opinion molders—move early to shape the 2027 electoral landscape.

Pyrates Confraternity, Health Experts Mobilize Against Cervical Cancer “Ignorance” in Delta State

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NAS

In a powerful advocacy drive to mark World Health Day 2026, the Vito Corsica Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has called for a radical shift in how Nigerians perceive and treat cervical cancer. Highlighting the 2026 theme, “Together for Science,” the association brought medical professionals to the forefront to emphasize that the high mortality rates currently recorded in the country are largely due to late detection and the persistence of harmful medical myths.

Emeka Maduka, representing the Seadogs, explained that through their “NAS Medical Mission,” the organization is dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific advancement and community awareness, ensuring that life-saving information reaches the most vulnerable women in Delta State.

The clinical reality presented during the briefing, led by Dr. Dumbiri Melvin of the Federal Medical Centre Asaba, is that sub-Saharan Africa remains a global hotspot for cervical cancer deaths, with hundreds of thousands of women lost annually. Dr. Melvin explained that cervical cancer is almost exclusively caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus so common that nearly every sexually active person will contract it at some point.

While the doctor focused on traditional risk factors like multiple partners and early sexual debut, he also underscored the critical role of a woman’s overall health. He pointed out that long-term inflammation from other untreated infections and even environmental factors like high levels of air pollution or poor hygiene can play a secondary role in how the body handles the virus. Furthermore, a point of significant clinical interest is the link between cervical health and prolonged use of oral contraceptives; while vital for autonomy, experts suggest that women on long-term hormonal birth control should be even more diligent with their annual screenings.

The advocacy drive aimed a heavy blow at the stigma surrounding the disease. Experts noted that many women avoid screening because they mistakenly associate a positive HPV test with promiscuity. In reality, the virus can remain dormant for years, and even a woman with a single lifelong partner can be at risk.

To combat this, the “NAS Medical Mission” is pushing for a community-wide acceptance of the HPV vaccine for children as young as nine. By vaccinating boys as well as girls, the chain of transmission is broken, providing a “herd immunity” that protects future generations.

The doctors also addressed a common oversight in women’s health: the impact of active and passive smoking. Chemicals in cigarettes are known to concentrate in the cervical mucus, directly damaging the DNA of the cervix and making it significantly harder for the immune system to clear high-risk HPV strains.

Looking toward the future, the association threw its weight behind the World Health Organization’s 2030 elimination targets. This strategy relies on the “90-70-90” framework: vaccinating 90% of girls, screening 70% of women, and ensuring 90% of those diagnosed receive immediate, high-quality treatment.

Dr. Melvin reminded the public that in its earliest stages, the disease is often completely asymptomatic, meaning a woman cannot rely on “feeling sick” as a cue to see a doctor. Instead, the focus must remain on routine Pap smears and HPV DNA testing, both of which are available at the Federal Medical Centre and Asaba Specialist Hospital.

The Pyrates Confraternity concluded the session by urging the government and private sector to subsidize these tests, arguing that the cost of prevention is a fraction of the cost of treating advanced-stage cancer. They reaffirmed their commitment to using their platform to ensure that science, rather than rumor, dictates the health choices of every family in Asaba.

OGBEOGONOGO MOTOR PARK CRISIS: MANAGEMENT DEBUNKS “WONG BOX” VIDEO, ALLEGES THUG ATTACK, N3.2M THEFT …Says viral claims misrepresent March 10 Asaba incident

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Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park

By Our Correspondent

The management of the Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park in Asaba has strongly refuted claims circulating in a viral video posted by self acclaimed activist Victor Ojei, popularly known as Wong Box, describing them as false, misleading, and a distortion of the events that unfolded at the facility on March 10, 2026.

Addressing journalists in Asaba, the park manager under Ekwe-Ogidi Integrated Resources Limited, Chief Emeka Okoye, gave a detailed account of the incident, insisting that contrary to the narrative promoted online, it was not a case of a motorist being assaulted by park officials, but rather an orchestrated disruption allegedly led by one Stephen Onyeka.

According to him; “Information made available to me was that the man (Onyeka) had entered the park in his vehicle, paid the approved N500 parking fee, and conducted his business unhindered. However trouble started when he attempted to exit the park through the entrance gate, in violation of established traffic regulations governing the facility.

“He was politely directed to use the designated exit gate like every other motorist, but he refused because he had parked close to the entrance and did not want to join the queue,” the manager explained.

The refusal, he said, caused a major obstruction at the busy entrance, preventing incoming vehicles from accessing the park and creating tension among drivers and traders. Despite repeated appeals from staff, other motorists, and even elderly bystanders, Onyeka allegedly remained defiant.

The situation prompted the intervention of the park manager, Chief Emeka Okoye, who was alerted and rushed to the scene. He reportedly made further efforts to calmly resolve the impasse, reiterating the long-standing operational rules of the park, but Onyeka allegedly refused to comply.

Sensing possible enforcement action, Onyeka reportedly abandoned his vehicle at the entrance gate and left the premises before police personnel from the A Division arrived.

However, the situation took a more violent turn shortly after.

The management alleged that Onyeka later returned with over 30 armed individuals suspected to be cultists, who posed as vigilante operatives. The group allegedly descended on park staff, assaulting them and creating chaos across the facility.

“In the course of the chaos, they took advantage of the confusion to cart away over N3.2 million in cash realised from park operations that day,” the manager stated, adding that the attack brought commercial activities to a halt.

Chief Emeka Okoye, while condemning the development, also took a swipe at Wong Box for what he described as irresponsible activism.

“It is unfortunate that someone would go on social media to spread unverified claims. Activism should be rooted in truth and proper investigation, not sensationalism,” Okoye said.

He further alleged that after the incident, Onyeka connived with a police officer identified as Emeka at the A Division to obtain a medical report under questionable circumstances, falsely claiming he was assaulted by park staff.

This claim, the management said, led to the arrest and detention of innocent staff members, while their own complaint against Onyeka and his alleged accomplices was ignored.

The company also decried the financial impact of the incident, noting that operations were shut down for the rest of the day, resulting in significant revenue loss, including funds due for remittance to the Delta State Government.

Despite what the management described as “overwhelming video evidence,” they expressed frustration that efforts to secure a fair investigation at the police division have yielded no result.

“We believe we cannot get justice at the A Division, which is why we have come to the court of public opinion,” the manager stated.

The management called on relevant authorities to launch an independent investigation into the incident, prosecute those responsible for the alleged attack and theft, and address what they described as complicity within the police system.

They also urged members of the public to disregard what they termed as “false narratives” circulating online and to await the outcome of a proper and impartial inquiry.

As at the time of this report, the case is still being investigated by the Police.

End

Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park

Obi-Iloh Ebedei Community Makes History, As Hon. Emu-Led Committee Conducts Historic Election for Office Holders In Secret Ballot System

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By Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma

In what appealed to the public and neighbouring communities as historic and highly commendable, the Hon Emu Ambrose-Led Electoral Committee of Obi-Iloh Community in Ebedei, Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State, conducted elections for all four principal offices of the community which includes Umuosele Development Union (UDU) Chairman, Youth Chairman, Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC) Chairman, as well as Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC) Secretary.

The election which took place on Monday 6th April 2026 at Obi-Iloh community townhall recorded a massive turnout of Obi-Iloh indigenes both from away and at home, and was well observed from members of neighboring communities.

This time, a secret ballot system in what looks like INEC model was adopted by the electoral body which seems capital intensive but result-oriented. Candidates names and passport photographs were conspicuously printed on the ballot papers for easy identification of choice candidates, while voters take their turn to cast their votes for all four offices confidentially and simultaneously, under the watch of the electoral committee members, candidates’ agents, internal and external observers, security agents as well as gentlemen of the Press.

This development is at variance with the previous traditional “Option A” form of open ballot system of election where votes queue behind their choice candidates openly, which has been heavily criticized, being that open preference is a recipe for resentment and acrimony after election.

Shortly before the election, the Electoral Committee chairman, Hon. Emu Ambrose addressed the candidates and the electorates to conduct themselves modestly while maintaining a high level of responsibility and decorum before, during and after the election.

Speaking further, Hon. Emu, who was a former Councillor of Ebedei Ward 3 and present Supervisory Councillor for Finance, Ukwuani LGA Council, noted that after election, the spirit of no-winner-no-looser should prevail, as he urged would-be winners to be magnanimous in victory, as they carry everybody along and chart a new path forward for the development of Obi-Iloh (Umuosele) community.

The former Councillor exuded his wealth of political experience in steering the electioneering process for a peaceful, transparent, free and fair election, as voters waited patiently throughout the day to cast their votes, see their votes counted and results announced.

During the counting of the votes, the Committee Chairman, Hon. Emu confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free, fair and transparent. “The conduct of the election is okay, there’s no crisis anywhere, everybody voted and we did not disenfranchise anybody as regards the election”: the Chairman confirmed.

“The counting is ongoing and at the end of the counting, a winner must emerge, and we’ve advised the winners to carry everybody along”: Hon. Emu submitted.

Responding to the nagging issue of voters’ aparthy common in Nigerian clime, the Ebedei former Councillor and present Ukwuani Supervisory Councillor for Finance, confirmed that everybody came out en masse to vote for their choice candidates and that the ballot papers were enough for everybody.

One of the Winners of the election, the UDU Chairman-elect, Sir Roland Enebeli (aka Okpoloko) also confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free and fair, and he thank God for the successful outcome of the election.

Mr. Eugene Chinedu Diji, the incumbent OGMC Chairman of Obi-Iloh Umueziogoli community who also had a reelection bid for the same position but lost, confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free and fair, and the mode of the election is unprecedented.

Winners of the election announced are; Sir Roland Enebeli as Chairman Umuosele Development Union (UDU), Mr. Emu Franklin Onyishi as Youth Chairman, Mr. Edike Onyeka Agali as Chairman Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC), and Mr. Atuegu Onyeke as Secretary Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC).

Obire’s Camp Fires Back at Opuoru Over Allegations, Insists Lawmaker Is Bona Fide Warri South Indigene

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By Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR

The political atmosphere in Warri South Constituency II has intensified as the media team of the lawmaker representing the constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire, has strongly refuted allegations made against him by former lawmaker, Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru.

In a detailed rejoinder issued on Tuesday, Obire’s camp dismissed claims reportedly made by Opuoru at a public gathering and published by Fresh Angle Newspaper on March 31, 2026, describing them as “false, misleading, and defamatory.”

The statement specifically denied allegations that Obire engaged in blackmail, challenging Opuoru to provide “verifiable evidence—audio, visual, or written” to support his claims.

“At no time has Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire blackmailed or defamed Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru before, during, or after the 2023 elections,” the statement read.

The media team further described Obire as a man of “proven integrity and high moral standing,” arguing that the allegations were inconsistent with his character and public record.

Central to the dispute is Opuoru’s claim that Obire is not an indigene of Warri South—a claim the Obire camp described as “laughable and borne out of ignorance.”
Providing a detailed background, the statement maintained that Obire is a bona fide indigene of Otovwodo (Agbassa) in Agbarha Community, Warri South Local Government Area, with maternal ties to the Omamoh family.

According to the statement, Obire was born and raised in the community, attended schools in Warri, and later graduated from Delta State University, Abraka.

The rebuttal highlighted Obire’s longstanding involvement in community leadership, noting that he served as Youth Chairman of Otovwodo (Agbassa) Community for four years and later as National Youth President of the Agbarha National Youth Council for two terms.

His leadership trajectory, the statement added, saw him rise to the traditional position of Oghwuvwie (Prime Minister) of the community, and subsequently to Deputy Unuovwodo (Deputy King’s Representative), a role he currently occupies.

“These positions, held over several years, clearly demonstrate his roots and acceptance within the community,” the statement noted.

Obire’s camp also pointed to his victory in the 2023 Delta State House of Assembly election, where he defeated Opuoru, as further evidence of his legitimacy and acceptance among constituents.

“It is inconceivable for someone not from the community to rise through such ranks and secure electoral victory,” the statement argued.

Turning the tables, the statement accused Opuoru of engaging in “campaigns of calumny” and attempting to mislead the public following his electoral defeat.

It questioned the relevance of Opuoru’s remarks at the reported gathering, suggesting they reflected political frustration rather than substantive engagement.

While acknowledging that electoral defeat can be difficult, the Obire camp urged Opuoru to exercise restraint and avoid “politics of bitterness.”

The statement also cautioned Opuoru against making remarks perceived as disrespectful to traditional rulers, warning that such actions could have serious cultural and social implications.

It called on the former lawmaker to retract his statements and issue an apology.

Reaffirming Obire’s commitment to governance, the media team described him as a “silent achiever” focused on legislative duties and delivering on campaign promises.

It added that his performance record would be made public at the appropriate time.

Looking ahead, the statement expressed confidence in Obire’s chances in the forthcoming party primaries under the All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that “victory is certain.”

The latest exchange underscores rising political tensions in Warri South Constituency II as stakeholders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests, with both camps trading accusations in what appears to be an intensifying rivalry.

Oborevwori’s Wife Leads Autism Awareness Drive, Calls for Inclusion and Support for Special Needs Children

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Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori and the founder, You Matter Charity Foundation, has urged stakeholders, parents, and caregivers on the need to celebrate and support children living with autism and other special needs to enable them attain their full potentials.

She stated this on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at the celebration of this year’s World Autism Awareness Day with the theme “Autism with Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” emphasizing on acceptance, inclusion, and the empowerment of every child in society.

The celebration commenced with a 4km awareness walk from Temple Clinic Junction to the Government House, Asaba, led by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori who was joined by top Nigeria celebrities including Harrysong, Patience Ozokwor and other entertainers, actors and actresses, whose participation amplified visibility and public engagement for Autism.

Speaking at the event, Deaconess Oborevwori described the theme as timely and deeply significant, noting that it underscores the dignity and inherent worth of every individual living with autism. She emphasized that every child on the autism spectrum possesses unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that enrich society, calling for greater acceptance, inclusion, and equal rights beyond limitations.

The wife of the Governor further observed that many individuals with autism continue to face challenges ranging from societal misunderstanding and stigma to limited access to quality care, education, and support systems. According to her, the day serves as a reminder that awareness alone is not sufficient, stressing the need for deliberate action towards inclusion, support, and meaningful engagement.

Reiterating her advocacy, she stated that autism is neither a spiritual condition nor a limitation, but a different way of experiencing the world that can be managed with early intervention, specialized care, understanding, and unconditional love. She affirmed that the You Matter Charity Foundation remains committed to addressing these challenges by providing hope, creating enabling environments, and supporting vulnerable individuals and their families.

Deaconess Oborevwori added that although awareness about autism remains relatively low in many communities, the foundation has intensified efforts across the state through school visits, medical outreaches, and the distribution of learning aids. She appreciated parents, caregivers, partners, and supporters for their dedication, assuring that their labour of love will not go unrewarded, while encouraging collective action to build a more inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive and express themselves freely.

Speakers at the event delivered goodwill messages highlighting the unique potential and value of each child living with autism. Emphasizing that differences are strengths rather than limitations, they encouraged society to provide opportunities for children to grow at their own pace with patience, support, and love.

The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Dr Kingsley Ashibogwu commended the First Lady for her support for the children with living with autism. He assured that the new Federal Government curriculum would be domesticated in the state and will include provisions designed to meet the unique needs of children with special needs.

Abinoma Debbie Omomizee, representing teachers and caregivers, advocated for the inclusion of both verbal and non-verbal children in diverse activities, stressing the importance of consistent encouragement to help them realize their talents. Mrs. Ekama Egomioan, a parent, highlighted acceptance as the first step toward progress, noting that the home remains the foundation for nurturing confidence and growth.

Patience Ozokwor, speaking on behalf of the actors and actresses present, called for sustained support for children living with autism, urging parents and caregivers to remain patient and intentional while allowing the children to develop at their own pace.

The event also featured performance and presentations by children and Young adult living with autism, induction of ambassadors for Autism awareness by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori who also presented learning aids such as smart Android tablets, choice toys and others gift items to the children.

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