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Maris Lecture 2026: Former CDS Gen. Irabor To Make Public Outing, Confirmed As Keynote Speaker

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Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Eluonye Onyenuchea Irabor, CFR, has been confirmed as the Keynote Speaker at this year’s edition of the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture series.

​The Secretary of the Maris Trust Council (MTC), organizers of the lecture series, disclosed this on Tuesday in Warri.

​According to him, It is a thing of joy to announce to the public, especially loyal participants of the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture series, that former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, CFR, has accepted to be the Keynote Speaker at this year’s lecture.

​”Gen. Irabor confirmed that he will personally be at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 12:00 Noon prompt to speak on a topic which will be unveiled to the public in a few days’ time.

​”We thank the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, PhD, for supporting the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture series.

“It is a thing of joy that Governor Oborevwori has made Delta more conducive for hosting international discourse, tourism, and other business activities.

“The Governor has, again, approved the prestigious Unity Hall at Government House, Asaba, for this year’s lecture.

​”We are also grateful to the public, who suggested 64 topics and nominated 33 persons to be the Keynote Speaker.

“From your suggestions, Gen. Irabor emerged as the speaker, and his topic will be selected from those you proposed.

​”Your interest in proffering solutions to the challenges of society can only be rewarded by God.

“From us at MTC, we say thank you, and we look forward to your active participation on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

​”Kindly understand that we can only select one Keynote Speaker and one topic for discussion, though we greatly appreciate all your suggestions and follow-up activities.

“Continue to pray and work for a better society because, collectively, we can leave the world better than we found it,” Egugbo, said.

​Profile of Gen. Irabor
(Abridged from the Nigerian Military Gallery)

​General L.E.O. Irabor was born on October 5, 1965, in Aliokpu, Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

He gained admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1983 as a member of the 34 Regular Course and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1986 into the Signals Corps of the Nigerian Army.

​Irabor holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and two Master’s degrees from the University of Ghana and Bangladesh.

​General Irabor played a significant role in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgency and other security threats.

As the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Irabor was known as the “Boko Haram nemesis” due to his courage and determination in tackling the insurgents.

Under his guidance, the Nigerian Army reclaimed various occupied territories. He also planned and executed operations that led to the clearance of the Sambisa Forest, a notorious insurgent hideout.

​On January 26, 2021, Irabor was appointed as the 17th Chief of Defence Staff, the highest-ranking military position in Nigeria.

He has received numerous awards for his exceptional service, including a national honour in 2022.

General Leo Irabor retired on June 19, 2023.

State Creation: Tinubu Narrows Down To One State Only..; Anioma Favourite

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The President and Grand Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has posited that only one new state would be created after due legislative diligence.
There are strong indications that Anioma State, which promoters say will assuage the feeling of marginalization among South-Easterners, is likely to take the slot.

Vanguard gathered in Abuja on Monday that consultations have reached an advanced stage among various interests, especially among those opposed to the proposed state being listed among states in the South East.

This is coming amid renewed calls by Senator Ned Nwoko for sustained and unified support from Ndigbo for the creation of Anioma State as the sixth state of the South-East.

Recall that there has been strident opposition from some groups within Delta State against the creation of Anioma State as part of the South-East.

The groups have instead argued that the proposed state should be carved out within the South-South geopolitical zone, a move that would increase the number of states in that region to seven.

The South-East currently has only five states, making it the zone with the least number of states in the federation.

Sources close to the Presidency revealed that only Anioma State is being seriously considered for creation and that it would emerge as the sixth state in the South-East.

According to the source, the decision is aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over imbalance and perceived marginalization.

“Anioma State would be created to compensate the South-East region and Ndigbo in general,” one of the sources said. “Mr President is fully aware of the arguments for and against the creation of the state, but he considers Anioma the most viable among the various requests for state creation.

“He is also keen on achieving geopolitical balance, equity, fair representation, and justice, particularly to assuage the feelings of marginalisation expressed by Ndigbo, whose region currently has the fewest states.”

The source dismissed ongoing agitation by some stakeholders in the South-East for the creation of a proposed ‘Anim-Oma State’, which would combine parts of Anioma in Delta State, the old Orlu Zone in Imo State, and Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, with Orlu proposed as the capital.

Under the current plan, Anioma State would be created as the sixth state in the South-East, with Asaba as its capital, barring any last-minute change.

Although it is not yet clear when a proposed meeting between President Tinubu and stakeholders over the issue will take place, presidential sources said it would follow consultations with the leadership of the National Assembly, who are reported to be favourably disposed to the idea.

Reacting to the development, Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly and has been at the forefront of the campaign for the creation of Anioma State, expressed confidence that the agitation would soon yield results.

He said, “This is a historic clamour that has never enjoyed this level of national attention and support.

“It is a golden opportunity for the Igbo people to reunite with their kith and kin across the Niger.

“The Ohanaeze constitution recognises Anioma as the sixth Igbo state and Ikwerre as the seventh. It is therefore not a coincidence that over 90 senators have declared their total support for the creation of Anioma State.”

Concerned Citizens Laud Aniocha South Chairman Over Ewulu Earth Road Intervention

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By Afokobah Celestine

Concerned citizens from within and outside Ewulu community have commended the Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Jude Chukwunwike, for his timely intervention in the grading of the Ewulu Earth Road, describing it as a critical relief for residents.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group, led by the Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Infrastructure, Chief Nat Igbadi, expressed deep appreciation to the council chairman for his swift response in rehabilitating the road and restoring motorable access to the community at a crucial time.

Chief Igbadi noted that the intervention had significantly eased movement and improved access for residents and visitors alike.

“With this intervention, the people of Ewulu can now conveniently access their community through the Ogwashi-Uku axis. This has brought much-needed relief to commuters and boosted socio-economic activities,” he said.

The group also lauded the Delta State Government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for the successful completion of Phase I of the Isheagu–Ewulu Road project.

He described it as a testament to the governor’s commitment to infrastructural development across the state.

While commending the progress recorded so far, the concerned citizens appealed to Governor Oborevwori to consider awarding the contract for Phase II of the project, which spans about five kilometres from the Ogwashi-Uku axis.

According to them, completing the remaining phase would enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and further integrate Ewulu with neighbouring communities.

Chief Igbadi also acknowledged the support and contributions of illustrious sons of Ewulu, particularly Prince Chukwuka Ezechie, for his role in supporting the completion of the project.

He further appreciated members of the Peace Committee for their financial, moral, and supervisory contributions, which, he said, ensured the successful execution of the initiative.

Those commended included Mr. Patrick Odimegwu, Mr. Celestine Ibegbunem, and Hon. Gerrald Odimegwu.

Others are Hon. Alex Chukwunwike, Comrade Celestine Afokobah, Mr. Maduka Okubulu, and Mr. Ikwemefuna Nwokolo.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting developmental initiatives that promote unity, accessibility, and sustainable growth in Ewulu and Aniocha South Local Government Area at large.

Sit-At-Home: Heavy Protest Erupts In Onitsha Main Market Over Closure

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In the bustling city of Onitsha, Anambra State, a wave of unrest swept through the streets on Tuesday 27th January 2026, as traders from the Onitsha Main Market took to protesting against the government’s decision to shut down the market.

This decision, enforced by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, was a response to the traders’ continued compliance with the “sit-at-home” orders, which have been a point of contention in the region.

The shutdown was announced after traders defied the state’s directive to open for business on Mondays, a day that has been unofficially observed as a sit-at-home day in solidarity with the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

The Governor was categorical in wierding the big hammer, insisting that the market would remain closed for one week, and this measure would extend to any other market in Anambra that failed to operate on Mondays.

As the closure took effect, security agencies, including hundreds of personnel supported by Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Hilux vans, were deployed to enforce the order. They barricaded the market, ensuring that the Governor’s directive was strictly adhered to. This heavy security presence, however, did not deter the traders, who gathered in large numbers to express their dissatisfaction.

The protest was marked by chants and songs in support of Nnamdi Kanu, highlighting the deep-rooted political and social tensions in the region. The traders’ demonstration was not just a reaction to the economic implications of the shutdown but also a manifestation of their solidarity with the IPOB leader.

Governor Soludo’s decision to close the market was part of a broader strategy to curb what he described as “economic sabotage” disguised as the sit-at-home order. He emphasized that the state could not afford to lose economic activity every Monday and warned that similar actions would be taken against other markets that failed to comply with the state’s directives.

Despite the tension, the Anambra State Government acknowledged the disturbance and commended the police for their swift action in restoring order. The situation remains delicate, with the potential for further unrest if a resolution is not reached soon.

This protest in Onitsha Main Market underscores the complex interplay between economic activities and political allegiances in southeastern Nigeria, reflecting broader challenges faced by the region in balancing governance, economic stability, and political expression.

Critics Slam Soludo Over Onitsha Main Market Shutdown, Say Action Unlawful And A Breach Of Rights

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Critics have slammed the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo following the order he made on Monday 26th January 2026 to shutdown Onitsha Main Market and its adjoining markets for one week to enforce compliance against the perceived defiance of the illegal sit-at-home order on Mondays in some South Eastern part of Nigeria.

One of the Critics, a political activist Justice Ozobi, threatens to sue the Governor for 1 billion naira damages, noting that It is not by force to open shops, but by choice which embodies the exercise of one’s fundamental right.

Ozobi  described the Governor’s action as an infringement on personal and business rights which are ancillaries to fundamental human rights.

Reacting to reports that Governor Chukwuma Soludo has considered closing the Main Market to enforce Monday trading, Ozobi advised traders to remain calm and seek legal redress if necessary.

He suggested that affected traders could sue the government for damages, insisting that operating a business should not be done under compulsion, but by freewill.

“Going to shops shouldn’t be by force. I have the right to open my shop any day I want,” Ozobi said. “If I decide to close my shop for one year, that is my choice. I’m not owing Anambra State a kobo.” he insist.

He further maintained that the decision of when to open or close a shop is the prerogative of the business owner and should not be dictated by government directives, urging authorities to respect individual freedoms,. fundamental rights and the rule of law.

Government should rather redirect its powers legally by cracking down on unlawful enforcers of the Monday sit-at-home order so as to protect public offices and those who choose to open their shops on Monday, and allow others who choose not to open on Monday to exercise their rights and freedom to take the Monday leave,.he added.

Recall that monday sit-at-home, which has been observed in some parts of the South-East for about four  years now has been consistently condemned by the Soludo administration, describing it as illegal and harmful to the region’s economy.

Legal Fireworks Break Out In Ukwuani LGA Council. Read The Bone Of Contention.

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The High Court of Delta State sitting in Obiaruku has granted leave to a councillor of Ukwuani Local Government Area to commence mandamus proceedings against the Chairman and Treasurer of the Council over alleged failure to disclose the council’s financial records, as required by law.

The order was made on January 19, 2026, by Justice S. L. Okeleke, following an ex parte application filed by Evans Ufeli, the lead counsel at The Chambers of Evans Ufeli on behalf of Hon. Chukwuemeke Victor, Councillor representing Ward 19, Ezhionum Kingdom, Ukwuani LGA.

In granting the application, the court held that the applicant had established sufficient interest to approach the court, being a serving councillor of the local government, and consequently ordered that the application be granted as prayed.

With the leave secured, the councillor has now filed a Motion on Notice, seeking substantive reliefs against Barrister Chiamaka Solomon Possible Ajede, Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council; Solomon Johnson Udih, Treasurer of the Council; and the Ukwuani Local Government Legislative House.

In the motion, brought pursuant to Order 44 Rules 1–3 of the Delta State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2018, and provisions of the Delta State Local Government Establishment Law, 2017, the applicant alleges persistent refusal by the council’s executive to publish and declare the council’s monthly revenue, income and expenditure from July 2024 to date.

The councillor is asking the court to declare that the failure of the Treasurer to publish the council’s financial records amounts to a breach of statutory duty. He is also seeking an order of mandamus compelling the council chairman to direct the treasurer to immediately publish the said financial records in compliance with the law.

In addition, the applicant is praying the court to compel the chairman to furnish the legislative arm with the council’s monthly wage bill and performance index for the 2025 budget, with copies served on each councillor.

The suit also challenges the budgetary process of the council, alleging that the 2025 draft budget was hurriedly passed within two days without proper legislative scrutiny or debate. According to the applicant, the budget allegedly combined expenditure items belonging to Ukwuani and Ika North East Local Government Areas, a development he described as illegal and opaque.

Consequently, the councillor is seeking injunctive reliefs restraining the chairman from presenting the 2026 draft budget to the legislative arm pending full compliance with statutory financial disclosure obligations. He is also asking the court to restrain the legislative house from receiving or approving the 2026 budget until the alleged breaches are remedied.

In a statement in support of the application, the councillor maintained that all internal mechanisms to compel compliance had failed, insisting that judicial intervention had become necessary in the interest of transparency, accountability and good governance at the grassroots.

Verification Committee Releases List of Delta State Political Appointees for Screening

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Delta State

By Oghenero Orovwuje

Following an earlier announcement by the Secretary to the State Government on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the Verification Committee approved by Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has released the list of political appointees scheduled for screening.

In a statement signed by the Secretary of the Committee, Mr. Felix Irevwi, the appointees to be screened in the first phase include:

Executive Assistants (EAs)
Senior Special Assistants (SSAs)
Special Assistants (SAs), including aides to Honourable Commissioners, Special Advisers, Chairmen and Members of Commissions, Boards, Parastatals and Agencies, as well as aides to other senior political appointees

Political appointees in the Delta State House of Assembly (excluding domestic staff)

The Committee stated that the screening timetable earlier announced by the Secretary to the State Government remains unchanged.

Affected appointees are to appear for screening at the Press Centre (behind the Chapel), New Government House, Asaba, between 11:00am and 3:00pm on their scheduled dates, with the following documents:
Original letter of appointment
Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC)
Valid Delta State Government (DTSG) identity card

The statement further noted that appointees of the Delta State House of Assembly will be screened on dates to be communicated to them through the Clerk of the House. Appointees on Diaspora Matters/Affairs are exempted from the exercise.

For enquiries, the following phone numbers may be contacted: 09037437233 and 08037785862.

Light At Last In Ghana Quarters As Ajede Donates Transformer

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The Landlords Association of Upper Ghana Quarters in Obiaruku paid a courtesy visit on the Executive Chairman of Ukwuani, Hon. Barr. Ajede Possible, to sincerely thank him for his timely response in addressing their request for a 500KVA transformer to light up the area, which had long been shrouded in darkness.

The group revealed that their original appeal was merely for the repair of the faulty 300KVA transformer, but to their pleasant surprise, he provided a brand-new 500KVA transformer. They left the meeting filled with deep appreciation for the Executive Chairman’s thoughtfulness.

The group prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the Council Chairman and pledged unwavering support for his administration as well as that of His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State.

In his response, Ajede thanked the Upper Ghana Quarters Landlords Association for their gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing development initiatives that will place Ukwuani in the spotlight.

He also assured the community that his administration plans to focus on human capital development in 2026 to honor the exemplary leadership of His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

National Grid Collapse For The First Time In 2026

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The national electricity grid, a critical infrastructure supporting millions of households and businesses, suffered a total collapse, plunging the nation into darkness, being the first of its kind in 2026,

The collapse occurred around 1 pm In the early hours of January 23 2026 , when power generation dropped to zero megawatts, leaving all 11 electricity distribution companies without power to supply to their customers.

This sudden blackout was not just a technical failure but a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the country’s energy infrastructure. Prior to the collapse, the grid had been generating over 4,500 megawatts, but within minutes, this plummeted to a mere 24 megawatts.

The impact was immediate and somewhat ubiquitous, leaving cities across Nigeria enveloped in darkness, disrupting daily life and business operations. The collapse affected all 23 power plants connected to the grid, which lost output simultaneously.

This event underscored the ongoing operational challenges within Nigeria’s electricity sector, which has been plagued by repeated grid failures due to technical faults, inadequate maintenance, and fluctuations in generation capacity.

For many Nigerians, the blackout was a harsh reminder of the country’s energy insecurity. Despite being rich in natural resources, the nation has struggled to provide consistent and reliable electricity to its citizens. The collapse also came barely weeks after a similar failure on December 29, 2025, indicating a pattern of systemic issues that needed urgent attention.

In the aftermath, the government and energy stakeholders faced mounting pressure to address these challenges. There were calls for increased investment in infrastructure, better maintenance practices, and the adoption of more sustainable energy solutions to prevent future occurrences. The incident also sparked discussions on the need for a more resilient and diversified energy mix to reduce reliance on the national grid.

As Nigeria navigates the complexities of its energy landscape, the first grid collapse of 2026 serves as a critical lesson in the importance of robust infrastructure and proactive management. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards a more stable and sustainable energy future for the nation.

BREAKING: Ajede Enrolls 900 Pupils In Public Schools For Common Entrance Exam In Ukwuani

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In a heartwarming display of community support and commitment to education, the Executive Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, Barr. C.S. Possible Ajede, has taken a significant step to ease the financial burden on families by paying the registration fees for the common entrance examination of 900 pupils in public schools in Ukwuani .

This initiative underscores Ajede’s dedication to harnessing education tendencies amongst children and encouraging school retention and continuity in education.

The “Do-More” Council Chairman’s decision to cover the enrollment fees for public primary school pupils is part of a broader strategy to enhance educational access and equity within Ukwuani. By removing financial barriers, Ajede aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to pursue their academic goals without the hindrance of economic constraints. This move is expected to encourage higher enrollment rates, stimulate retention and motivate academic performance .

The gesture has been met with widespread appreciation from parents, educators, and community leaders. Many see it as a testament to Barr. Ajede’s understanding of the critical role education plays in community development and individual empowerment. By investing in the education of young people, he is not only supporting their personal growth but also contributing to the long-term socio-economic development of Ukwuani.

This initiative aligns with Barr. Ajede’s broader educational and developmental goals for the region. He has been actively involved in various projects aimed at improving infrastructure and resources in Ukwuani, including the inauguration of strategic councils and committees focused on resource management and land recovery. His administration has also been recognized for listening to community needs and addressing them effectively.

The now two-time Council Chairman of Ukwuani has demonstrated  a visionary approach to leadership, where the focus is on sustainable development and community welfare, earning him the accolade “Mr. Do-More”, “Mr. Fix It”.

By prioritizing education, Ajede has laid the groundwork for a more educated and empowered future generation, thereby inspiring other leaders and stakeholders to contribute to educational causes, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the council area.

Barr. Ajede’s enrollment of pupils for common is profound; it is more than just a financial contribution; but a powerful statement of his commitment to the youth and the future of Ukwuani. His leadership continues to set a benchmark for community-focused governance, emphasizing the importance of education as a cornerstone for development.

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