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Community Security Corps: DOPF urges Oborevwori To Prioritize Bill, Give Assent

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The Delta State Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has urged the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, to assent to the Bill of Delta State Community Security Corps Agency, 2025, against the backdrop of persistent attacks on farmers by armed herdsmen, cases of kidnapping for ransom, and other violent crimes that now threaten livelihoods, food security, and public confidence in governance.

This was contained in a letter of appeal by the Forum, addressed to His Excellency, dated 06/01/2026, made available to the Press.

The Forum urged the Governor to, as a matter of urgency, sign the Community Security Corps bill into law, sponsored by Hon. (Dr.) Isaac Anwuzia, Chairman of the House Committee on Peace and Security, passed on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, which repeals the 2020 version and which has passed the third reading.
The Forum noted that the intendment of the bill is unequivocal, to institute local security architecture like the Amotekun in the South-West, complementing conventional security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, and respond swiftly to local security threats that has overwhelmed federal forces.

While commending His Excellency for assenting to the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, 2025, and launching Delta State Security Trust Fund, the Forum expressed particular concern that the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Law, which provides the operational backbone for effective grassroots security enforcement, has remained unsigned several months after passage.

“This delay raises troubling questions, especially when viewed against the fate of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law, which, despite being enacted in the last dispensation, has largely remained dormant, even as Deltans continue to suffer violent attacks on their farms by marauding herdsmen. Laws without enforcement structures become symbolic documents, not instruments of protection.”: the letter reads in part.

“The current security climate makes the need for this law even more urgent, with reports of terrorist elements being displaced from the North-East following recent international military operations, there is growing fear that criminal networks may seek refuge in relatively softer regions, including parts of the Niger Delta.”: the letter reads further.

The Forum further avers that signing the Community Security Corps bill into law must go hand in hand with the immediate establishment of clear structures for its implementation, including recruitment guidelines, training standards, funding mechanisms, oversight frameworks, and coordination protocols with existing security agencies, expressing optimism that this deliberate move will send a powerful message that the present administration is proactive, people-centered, and determined to protect lives, investments, farmlands, and communities, rather than reacting after irreparable damage has been done.

As a call to action, the Online Media Forum appealed to the Governor to present the signing and implementation of the Delta State Community Corps Agency Law, 2025, as a newyear gift to Deltans; reassuring the people that their safety matters and that laws enacted in their name will not be allowed to gather dust on government shelves.

Andaye in EFCC Net as Councillors Petition Over Alleged ₦800 Million Unapproved Loan

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arrest, investigate, and prosecute the Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, alongside five others, over the alleged procurement of an unapproved ₦800 million loan from a commercial bank.
Fifteen councillors of the Bomadi Local Government Legislative Arm, in a petition dated 8 January 2026 and submitted to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC on 14 January 2026, have called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the alleged financial misconduct. The petition is titled “Alleged Forgery and Fraudulent Loan Obtaining by Hon. Dagidi Andaye and Five Suspended Councillors of Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.”

The allegations of financial impropriety and recklessness levelled against Hon. Andaye and five others by the 15 councillors—out of the 20 members of the Bomadi Legislative House—have also led to the issuance of an impeachment notice against the council chairman. The notice has reportedly been submitted to the Delta State House of Assembly, the Governor’s Office, and relevant security agencies.

The embattled chairman is currently facing impeachment proceedings initiated by the majority of councillors, who accuse him of “financial impropriety, financial recklessness, abuse of executive office, and issuing political threats by invoking the Governor’s name to intimidate councillors.”

The five other individuals accused in the petition include Hon. Doubra Wurukeseiye, impeached Leader of the Bomadi Legislative House; Hon. John Tome, impeached Deputy Leader; Asu Eteku, Head of Personnel Management (HPM), Bomadi Local Government Area; Adibor Senior, Treasurer; and Hon. Porbeni Cletus, impeached Majority Leader.

According to the petitioners, Hon. Andaye and the five accused persons allegedly forged the signatures of councillors to secure the ₦800 million loan without the mandatory approval of the legislative arm of the local government.
The petition addressed to the EFCC reads in part:

“We, the undersigned 15 councillors of the Bomadi Local Government Area Legislative House, Delta State, hereby bring to your attention a grave case of forgery and financial impropriety. Hon. Dagidi Andaye, Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Area, and five suspended councillors, including Hon. Doubra Wurukeseiye, Hon. John Tome, Asu Eteku (HPM), Adibor Senior (Treasurer), and Hon. Porbeni Cletus, allegedly forged our signatures to obtain an ₦800 million loan without legislative approval.”

The petition further described the act as “a serious breach of public trust, a grave financial crime, and a violation of the principles of transparency and good governance.”
It added:

“Forgery is a serious offence under Nigerian law, punishable by up to 14 years’ imprisonment. We therefore urge the EFCC to treat this matter with utmost urgency, thoroughly investigate the allegations, recover the fraudulently obtained loan, and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.”

The petition was signed by the following councillors: Hon. Peres Alari, Hon. Barbar Harris, Hon. Muturu Justice Ebimene, Hon. Ebi Nanakumo, Hon. Bariki Godsday Desmond, Hon. Edougha Felix, Hon. Isaiah Selekekeme Emmanuel, Hon. Komuko Pius, Hon. David Ambari, Hon. Egbebo Rofina Tamaraudebaemi, Hon. Musa Rita, Hon. ThankGod Tiriki, Hon. Forcados Segun Olobio, Hon. Coleman Donobebe Dennis, and Hon. Massah Austine.

An official of the EFCC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the Commission has received the petition and would commence investigations into the allegations.

Meanwhile, a reliable source within the Delta State House of Assembly disclosed that although the House has acknowledged receipt of the petition, there are alleged plans to suppress the matter due to political interests. The source noted that such an action would be contrary to Section 31 of the Delta State Local Government Law, 2013, as amended in 2018.

Oborevwori Gifts SUVs To Traditional Rulers, Describes It As Tools Of Service

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In a significant move to bolster grassroots governance and peace-building efforts, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, recently presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state.

This gesture, which took place at the Government House in Asaba, underscores the governor’s commitment to strengthening the role of traditional institutions in governance and community leadership.

Governor Oborevwori described the SUVs as “tools of service” for the traditional rulers, who are seen as guardians of peace and stability within their communities. By providing these vehicles, the governor aims to enhance the mobility and effectiveness of these leaders in executing their duties, which include maintaining peace and fostering development at the grassroots level.

The presentation of the SUVs aligns with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which emphasizes inclusive leadership and the empowerment of local governance structures. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that traditional rulers are well-equipped to contribute to the state’s development and to act as vital links between the government and the people.

The event was squarely attended by members of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, who expressed their appreciation for the governor’s support. This move is seen as a reinforcement of the traditional institution’s role as a pillar of the state’s cherished customs and a crucial component of governance.

Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been marked by efforts to advance the state’s development since he assumed office in May 2023. His initiatives have focused on building on past achievements and leaving a lasting impact on the state’s governance, infrastructure and human capital development.

While the gesture has been largely praised, it has also sparked some criticism. Some.quarters criticized the expenditure on the SUVs, questioning the allocation of resources at the expense of other pressing needs such as insecurity bedeviling the state.

Despite this, the governor’s action is widely viewed as a positive step towards enhancing the capacity of traditional rulers to fulfill their roles effectively at the grassroots.

Governor Oborevwori’s presentation of SUVs to Delta State’s traditional rulers is a testament to his administration’s commitment to empowering local leaders and fostering a more inclusive and effective governance framework. This initiative not only highlights the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and stability but also reinforces their role in the state’s ongoing development efforts.

Gridlock Relief At Last As Oborevwori Carries Out Groundbreaking of Ughelli Flyover

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In a significant move to alleviate the persistent traffic congestion in Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has officially commenced the construction of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli. This rather ambitious project marks a pivotal step in the governor’s broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at transforming the state’s urban landscape and boosting economic activities.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on a bustling Monday, was attended by key stakeholders and local dignitaries, all eager to witness the beginning of what promises to be a transformative project for the region. The flyover, spanning 1.007 kilometers, is designed to provide a permanent solution to the chronic traffic gridlock that has long plagued the Otovwodo Junction, one of the busiest intersections in the state.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized the strategic importance of the flyover, noting that it is part of a comprehensive ₦230 billion infrastructure package. This initiative is not only expected to ease traffic congestion but also to enhance the overall economic vitality of Ughelli and its environs. By facilitating smoother transportation, the flyover will likely attract more businesses and investments to the area, thereby creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

The project is being executed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a renowned construction company known for its expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. The company has already mobilized resources to the site, ensuring that the construction progresses efficiently and on schedule.

Local residents and business owners have expressed optimism about the flyover’s potential to transform their daily commutes and improve the quality of life in Ughelli. The anticipation is palpable, as many believe that the flyover will significantly reduce travel times and enhance connectivity within the region.

Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been lauded for its proactive approach to infrastructure development, with the Otovwodo Flyover being a testament to its commitment to addressing the state’s pressing urban challenges. As the construction progresses, the community eagerly awaits the completion of the flyover, which promises to be a beacon of progress and a catalyst for further development in Delta State.

The groundbreaking of the Otovwodo Flyover in a nutshell is a landmark event that underscores the Delta State government’s dedication to improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. With the project’s successful completion, Ughelli is poised to experience a new era of growth and prosperity.

Tenure Overstay Sparks Tension in Bilabiri Community …Residents Raise Alarm Over Leadership Crisis, Security Risks

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By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

A leadership dispute is reportedly brewing in the oil-rich Bilabiri Community of Bayelsa State following allegations that the Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Mr. Tekenane Abaka, has refused to vacate office despite the expiration of his tenure in December 2024.

Concerned indigenes say tension is rising steadily in the community, warning that the situation could degenerate into unrest if urgent intervention is not undertaken by the appropriate authorities.

Bilabiri

One of the concerned indigenes, Mr. Lucky Tubotu, who raised the alarm, called on the Bayelsa State Government to act swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

“The Bayelsa State Government must intervene immediately to forestall chaos. Mr. Abaka’s continued occupation of the CDC chairmanship after the expiration of his tenure is unconstitutional and poses a serious threat to peace in Bilabiri,” Tubotu stated.

Bilabiri

According to him, Abaka’s tenure has allegedly been characterised by intimidation, rising tension, and constitutional violations, accusing him of usurping community leadership for personal interests at the expense of development.

Tubotu further alleged that Abaka has openly claimed to have strong political connections which, he believes, would enable him to remain in office indefinitely in defiance of the CDC constitution.

“The tenure of CDC executives is clearly provided for in the community constitution. It is therefore disturbing that Mr. Abaka has remained in office more than one year after his mandate expired, without any tangible achievements to justify such overstay,” he added.

Bilabiri, Ekeremor in Bayelsa State

He urged the Bayelsa State Government, which he described as peace-loving, not to allow what he termed “the imposition of one individual on the collective will of the Bilabiri people.”
Tubotu also expressed concerns over the safety of residents and the security of oil and gas facilities in the area, warning that prolonged tension could have far-reaching consequences.

In a related development, he called on Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd and other oil and gas servicing firms to suspend engagements with Abaka and members of what he described as a “self-imposed CDC,” noting that their mandate expired in December 2024.

“Any individual or company dealing with them does so at its own risk,” he cautioned.
The concerned indigene further alleged that in 2025, some CDC executives of Bilabiri 1 Community were involved in the disappearance and alleged sale of 500kVA and 350kVA generators belonging to Bilabiri 1 and 2 Communities, without the consent of Bilabiri 2.

He also raised alarm over the recent alleged theft of an armoured turbine cable drawn from Tunu to supply electricity to Bilabiri 1 and 2 Communities, questioning the role of the CDC leadership and local chiefs who claim to oversee security.

“These critical assets reportedly disappeared under their watch. The self-imposed CDC chairman should be questioned and investigated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding these incidents,” Tubotu said.
Tubotu further alleged worsening insecurity in the community, accusing Mr. Ebimene Abaka, a brother to the CDC chairman, also known as ‘Small Fire’, of unlawfully declaring himself Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Bilabiri.
According to him, the self-acclaimed CSO has allegedly aided and abetted criminal activities, noting that major infrastructure thefts occurred under his watch.

“Bilabiri Community is effectively under siege. Residents are living in fear as a result of self-imposed leadership and unchecked criminal activities,” he said.

He warned that unless the Bayelsa State Government takes decisive steps to restore lawful leadership and investigate the alleged criminal activities, the once peaceful oil- and gas-producing community could slide into crisis.

“The warning signs are clear. Urgent intervention is required to prevent Bilabiri from descending into chaos,” Tubotu concluded.

DESTMA Has No Law Enforcement Powers, Court Rules

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It was a sigh of relief for motorists as court strikes down DESTMA power to arrest and fine motorists in Delta State.

This came following a High Court landmark judgment which declared that the Delta State Traffic Management Authority DESTMA has no “locus standi” or legal authority to arrest motorists, impose fines or impound vehicles in Delta State.

The court ruled that the enabling law establishing DESTMA does not confer powers of arrest prosecution or fine imposition on the agency or its officers adding that such powers are vested exclusively in the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies expressly empowered by law.

In its judgment the court described DESTMA’s enforcement actions including arrests fines and vehicle impoundment as “ultra vires” meaning beyond its legal authority and therefore null and void. The ruling effectively strips the agency of its core enforcement powers and renders its past practices unlawful.

The court further held that motorists who were arrested fined or had their vehicles seized by DESTMA under these unlawful practices are entitled to seek redress including refunds and damages through the courts.

The judgment follows years of widespread complaints by commercial and private motorists across Delta State who accused DESTMA operatives of harassment extortion illegal towing and abuse of power under the guise of traffic enforcement.

Following the ruling celebrations broke out across motor parks and transport corridors in Asaba Warri Sapele Ughelli and other parts of the state as drivers and transport unions described the decision as liberation from what they called daily oppression on the roads.

Some stakeholders however expressed concern that the judgment could weaken traffic control and enforcement if the state government does not urgently put alternative lawful measures in place to maintain order on Delta roads.

Legal analysts say the ruling means DESTMA can now only function in traffic control education and advisory roles unless the Delta State Government appeals the judgment or amends the agency’s enabling law to clearly define and legalise its enforcement powers.

The Oborevwori administration is now under pressure to respond either by filing an appeal restructuring DESTMA or introducing a new legal framework to prevent a vacuum in traffic management and enforcement across the state.

AFCON2026: CAF Miles Behind, As Ighalo Laments Lack of Goal-Line Technology In Africa’s Biggest Stage

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Former Super Eagles striker Odion Jude Ighalo has criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the decision to rule out Calvin Bassey’s goal in Nigeria’s AFCON quarter-final match against Algeria.

Speaking after the game, Ighalo said the ball clearly crossed the goal line and should have been counted as a goal. He blamed the incident on the absence of goal-line technology at the Africa Cup of Nations.

According to him, replay footage showed that most of the ball went over the line, but the referee’s decision was upheld by VAR, denying Nigeria an early lead.

Ighalo described the situation as disappointing, saying that major tournaments like the World Cup and European competitions use goal-line technology, while Africa’s biggest football event still lacks it and miles behind.

Despite the setback, Nigeria went on to dominate the match and later scored two second-half goals through Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams to defeat Algeria 2–0.

#AFCON2026
#SuperEagles
#OdionIghalo
#CAF
#CalvinBassey
#FootballControversy

“The Paying Ancestor”: Nigeria Again to get fresh $9.5m Abacha loot from UK’s Jersey

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Nigeria to receive fresh $9.5 million (£7 million), believed to be stolen funds linked to former military Head of State, Sani Abacha, from the United Kingdom’s Jersey. Jersey has reportedly agreed to repatriate the fund to the Nigerian government.

The money, described as proceeds of “tainted property,” is said to be part of the vast fortune stolen by Abacha, who ruled Nigeria between 1993 and 1998.

The funds were kept in a bank account in Jersey and had been tied up in legal proceedings for several years.

Although the assets were first recovered during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, court challenges stalled their return to Nigeria. Progress was made in December 2025 when Jersey’s Attorney-General, Mark Temple, signed a memorandum of understanding, MoU, with Nigerian authorities to enable the repatriation.

The latest agreement builds on two earlier arrangements between Jersey and Nigeria that led to the return of more than $300 million (£230m) in recovered assets.

Postponement Of Evil Days: Fubara’s Impeachment Move Resurfaces, Sparks Mixed Reactions In Rivers State

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In the heart of the Government of Rivers State resurfaces a political storm as the House of Assembly embarks on a rather unrepentant and contentious journey to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.

The impeachment proceedings initiated on January 8, 2026 have sent ripples through the state’s political landscape, marking a pivotal moment in its governance.

The impeachment process was set in motion during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule. The Majority Leader, Major Jack, presented a notice of allegations against Governor Fubara, citing gross misconduct. Among the seven allegations were unauthorized demolitions and breaches of a peace accord brokered by President Bola Tinubu, which the governor and his deputy allegedly disregarded.

The decision to proceed with impeachment has sparked mixed reactions across Rivers State. Supporters of the Governor argue that the allegations are politically motivated, aimed at destabilizing the current administration. Critics, however, insist that the charges reflect a pattern of governance that undermines the state’s stability and prosperity.

As the proceedings unfold, the atmosphere in Rivers State is tense. The impeachment process, governed by Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, requires a thorough examination of the allegations. This legal framework ensures that the governor and his deputy are given a fair chance to defend themselves against the charges.

The implications of this political drama are profound, holding a double fold consequences such that should the impeachment succeed, it could lead to a significant shift in the state’s leadership, potentially altering the political dynamics in the region, and conversely, should the governor and his deputy be exonerated, it may strengthen their administration’s resolve and legitimacy.

Amidst the unfolding events, the phrase “postpone of the evil day” resonates with the abiding and unrepentant impeachment move of the Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly, the uncertainty and anticipation surrounding the outcome. For the people of Rivers State, the impeachment proceedings are not just a legal battle but a test of their democratic institutions and the resilience of their political system.

As the story continues to develop, all eyes remain on the Rivers State House of Assembly, where the fate of Governor Fubara and his deputy hangs in the balance. The proceedings are a reminder of the complexities of governance and the ever-present challenges of maintaining political stability in a diverse and dynamic state.

Federal Information Mourns The Loss Of A Masterly Journalist, Describes It As One Too Many

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The Federal Information Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council received the news of the passing of one of Delta State finest journalists, Comrade Matthew Ochei as a rude shock, describing it as a huge loss and one too many

The deceased who was a member of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel and staff of The Punch Newspapers died in the early hours of Tuesday 6th January 2026 after a brief illness.

The Chapel Chairman , Comrade Abel Johngold through the Chapel Secretary, Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma, on behalf of members of Federal Information Chapel extends his sincerest condolence to the families of the deceased in particular and Asaba Correspondents Chapel where the deceased was a member until his demise.

“Comrade Matthew Ochei was a consummate journalist who demonstrated high sense of diligence and professionalism in the discharge of his duties. He would be remembered for his diligence, dexterity, commitment and contribution to the growth of the print media in Delta State.”: the statement reads in part

The Chairman and members of Federal Information Chapel commiserates with the families of Comrade Matthew Ochei and stands with them in prayers during this dark period of mourning.
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