Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of legendary Urhobo musician and cultural icon, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, popularly known as “The Ogburine” (Song-Warrior).

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the late musician as one of the greatest ambassadors of Urhobo culture whose contributions to music, philosophy, and indigenous knowledge will remain unforgettable.

Governor Oborevwori said Prof. Adjan’s death was a huge loss not only to the Urhobo nation but also to Delta State and Nigeria at large, noting that the revered musician dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Urhobo heritage through his timeless songs.

The governor noted that Prof. Adjan’s influence extended beyond entertainment, earning him academic recognition.

“Prof. Johnson Adjan was more than a musician; he was a custodian of our culture, history, philosophy, and values. Through his music, he educated generations, preserved our heritage, and strengthened the identity of the Urhobo people,” Governor Oborevwori said.

Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the Adjan family, the Urhobo nation, and the entire entertainment community, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Prof. Johnson Adjan’s signature call, “Isi wadooo… iyaaa…,” will continue to resonate in the hearts of his admirers as a symbol of a life devoted to culture, wisdom, and music.

The Delta State Government has announced plans to convene a security summit aimed at strengthening collaboration among stakeholders in addressing security challenges across the state.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Delta State Security Summit 2026 will hold on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The summit, themed “Security: A Collective Responsibility,” will be hosted by Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori. The event is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on strategies for enhancing peace, safety and security.

The SSG stated that participants expected at the summit include; security chiefs, representatives of the Armed Forces, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defense, NSCDC, chairmen of local government councils, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Presidents-General of communities, ethnic youth leaders, community youth leaders, civil society organizations, transport unions and market women associations.

Dr. Emu noted that the summit underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering a safer and more secure Delta State through inclusive engagement and collective action.

He emphasized that security remains a shared responsibility requiring the active participation of government institutions, security agencies, community leaders and citizens.

The state government urged all invited stakeholders to attend the summit and contribute meaningfully to discussions aimed at strengthening security architecture and promoting sustainable peace across the state.

The gathering is also expected to reinforce ongoing efforts by security agencies and community-based groups to tackle emerging threats and ensure the safety of residents.

The summit comes amid renewed calls for greater cooperation among security stakeholders, with participants expected to chart a common course towards a united front against terrorism, criminality and other threats to public safety in Delta State.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prudence, accountability and transparency in the management of public resources as the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMFAC) commenced its nationwide Data Verification Exercise in the state.

Governor Oborevwori stated this on Monday while receiving a delegation from RMFAC led by the Team Leader, Mohammed Kabir Usman, and the Federal Commissioner representing Delta State in the Commission, Mr. Aruviere Martins Egharhevwa, at Government House, Asaba.

The governor said his administration had continued to invest heavily in critical sectors such as healthcare, education and other social infrastructure across the state, stressing that the projects were visible and open for verification.

He said; “We remain conscious of the need for prudence, accountability and transparency in the management of public resources. As a government, we have massively invested in hospitals, schools and other social infrastructure which have improved the indices of the state in the country.

“We are not just saying it; you will see it. As you go around the state, you will see what we have done. I can boldly state that in Delta State, we have been working round the clock across the 25 local government areas. We are doing projects in roads, schools, hospitals and other sectors. They are there for you to verify.”

Oborevwori assured the commission of the state’s full cooperation, noting that all relevant ministries, departments and agencies, as well as the 25 local government councils, had been adequately briefed ahead of the exercise.

The Governor said; “I wish to assure the Commission that Delta State is fully prepared to provide all necessary information and support required for the successful conduct of the exercise.

“Before your visit, we had a meeting with the 25 local government council chairmen where these issues were discussed. I instructed them to come with all their reports and be ready for verification. So, we are fully prepared for this exercise”.

Oborevwori urged the RMFAC team to physically inspect projects and facilities rather than relying solely on documents presented to them.

“What we want is not for anybody to come and give us what we do not deserve. What we want is that whatever we have, make sure it is there and that the records are accurate. That is the essence of this verification exercise,” he said.

He further stressed: “Don’t stay in Asaba and rely only on reports. Go out and verify the hospitals, schools and other facilities. Let them show you the records and the projects on the ground. It is very important that you see things for yourselves so that you can defend your findings anywhere.”

The governor added that Delta State, as a major contributor to the nation’s revenue, expected a fair and objective assessment based on verifiable records and existing infrastructure.

“We are a major contributor to the centre. When you are doing your verification, all we ask is fairness. We know you will do the right thing because, as I have said, we believe strongly in accountability,” he added.

Earlier, the RMFAC Team Leader, Mohammed Kabir Usman, said the delegation was in Delta State to formally launch the nationwide data verification exercise aimed at updating and validating data used in revenue allocation among states and local governments.

He explained that the exercise was in line with the commission’s constitutional mandate to continuously review the revenue allocation formula to reflect changing socio-economic realities across the country.

Usman noted that population dynamics, infrastructure development and emerging developmental challenges made it necessary to periodically verify the data underpinning revenue allocation indices.

“The review of the revenue allocation formula has reached an advanced stage, and it has become necessary to validate the integrity and accuracy of the data that will ultimately inform the distribution of revenue across the federation,” he said.

According to him, the commission had previously trained state and local government officials on data gathering and management and had also digitised its data collection process to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

He said the verification team would work closely with ministries, departments, agencies and local government authorities to ensure credible data collection that accurately reflects realities on the ground.

Usman stressed that the outcome of the exercise would have significant implications for both the federation and individual states, noting that accurate and comprehensive data could positively impact future allocations.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for what he described as remarkable achievements in infrastructure and urban renewal across Delta State.

“I have seen the urban renewal programme, the flyover projects and the massive specialist hospital under construction. We congratulate you for these achievements. They are evidence of the giant strides your administration is making in governance,” he said.

Usman assured the governor that the verification exercise would be conducted with professionalism, transparency and fairness in accordance with national and international best practices.

The President General of Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), Comrade Chief Amechi Asugwuni has congratulated the election of Barr. Kenneth Oseji as the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kwale Branch.

In a congratulatory message penned by the PG himself and made available to press, Asugwuni hailed the emergency of a worthy Ndokwa son, describing it has honourable and inspiring.

The message reads;-

“On behalf of the National Executive Council of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), I wish to heartily congratulate Barr. Kenneth Oseji on his well-deserved election as the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kwale Branch.”

“Your emergence as Chairman is a testament to your professional competence, integrity, unifying leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the advancement of the legal profession. We are confident that under your leadership, the NBA Kwale Branch will witness remarkable growth, stability, enhanced professional excellence, and greater service to society.”

Asugwuni noted that Barr Oseji is a proud son of Ndokwa nation whose victory brings honour and inspiration to our people. The PG prayed God to grant him wisdom and strength to successfully discharge the responsibilities of his office and leave a lasting legacy of progress and service.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Sunday attributed the remarkable achievements recorded in the state over the past three years to the harmonious relationship between the Executive and Legislative arms of government.

Speaking at the 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service of the 8th Delta State House of Assembly held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Unity Model Parish, Asaba, the governor said the prevailing peace, progress and development across the state were products of the strong partnership and mutual understanding between both arms of government.

Oborevwori commended the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and members of the Assembly for their dedication to the prosperity and stability of the state, noting that the lawmakers had demonstrated focus, maturity, discipline and commitment to governance.

He said the Legislature’s support and constructive engagement had strengthened governance and enhanced the delivery of democratic dividends to Deltans.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to uphold the principles of constitutional democracy by respecting the roles and responsibilities of the Legislature while providing leadership anchored on the fear of God.

He also praised the Assembly for sustaining the tradition of thanksgiving at the commencement of every legislative year, describing the practice as a demonstration of gratitude to God for His guidance and blessings.

Emphasizing the importance of divine direction in leadership, Oborevwori urged political leaders and citizens to continue praying for those in authority.

Quoting Proverbs 3:5-6, he said trust in God had remained the secret behind the successes recorded by his administration and encouraged lawmakers to continue acknowledging God in all their endeavours.

The governor further charged members of the Assembly to intensify efforts at communicating government policies, programmes and achievements to the grassroots.

He described legislators as the vital link between government and the people, noting that through constituency engagements, town hall meetings and stakeholder consultations, lawmakers could help deepen public understanding of government initiatives while drawing attention to the needs of their constituents.

According to him, development projects are spread across all parts of the state under his administration’s broad-based budgeting framework, which allows legislators to contribute to identifying and addressing critical needs within their constituencies.

He urged the lawmakers to continue supporting efforts aimed at ensuring inclusive development across Delta State.

Oborevwori also expressed appreciation to former Governors James Ibori, Ifeanyi Okowa, and other political leaders for their support and presence at the thanksgiving service.

He described their continued backing as a source of encouragement and prayed for God’s blessings and strength upon them.

Earlier, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the thanksgiving service was organised to appreciate God for His faithfulness and guidance since the inauguration of the Eighth Assembly on June 13, 2023.

Guwor noted that the successes recorded by the Assembly over the past three years were made possible through God’s grace, wisdom and unity among members.

He said the Legislature had remained committed to its constitutional mandate through purposeful lawmaking, effective oversight and stakeholder engagement, resulting in the passage of several bills and resolutions aimed at promoting good governance, economic growth and the welfare of citizens.

The Speaker also commended the cordial relationship among the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, describing it as a major factor behind the stability and progress of Delta State.

He particularly praised Governor Oborevwori for his commitment to development and support for the Legislature, noting that the partnership between both arms had contributed significantly to the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.

Delivering a sermon titled “Wisdom for Excellent Service,” the Pastor in Charge of RCCG Region 34, Asaba, Pastor John Oyomah, emphasized that leadership positions are divinely ordained and attained according to God’s timing.

Drawing his message from Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Psalm 102:13, he stated that success in leadership is not determined solely by strength, education or personal ability but by divine favour and destiny.

The cleric congratulated Governor Oborevwori and other political office holders for what he described as God’s grace upon their administration. He commended the governor for ongoing infrastructural development across the state, particularly road projects, adding that the achievements being recorded were evidence of God’s favour and wisdom at work.

The highlight of the service was the cutting of the 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving cake.

Among dignitaries in attendance were the wife of the Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; wife of the Deputy Governor, Lady Catherine Onyeme; Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Hon. Peter Akpe; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; APC State Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; Senators Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and Ede Dafinone; members of the National Assembly, top government officials, traditional rulers and other prominent stakeholders.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the family of the late Mama Ruth Aruakpor to remain grateful to God for her fulfilled life and enduring legacy, describing her passing as a celebration of a life well spent in service to God, family and humanity.

Governor Oborevwori gave the charge on Saturday at the funeral service of Mama Aruakpor, mother of the Anglican Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Rt. Rev’d John Aruakpor, held at Saint Michael’s Anglican Church, Emevor in Isoko North Local Government Area of the State.

The late matriarch, who passed away on April 15, 2026, at the age of 92, was remembered as a devoted Christian, faithful church worker and caring mother whose life positively impacted her family, church and community.

Speaking during the service, Governor Oborevwori acknowledged the pain associated with the loss of a mother, noting that a mother’s love, guidance and prayers remain invaluable regardless of one’s age.

“We are gathered here today with heavy hearts, but also with gratitude to God for the life that our mother lived. Losing a mother is never easy, no matter how old we are, but we can thank God for the beautiful life she lived and the many people she touched in her lifetime,” the governor said.

He noted that longevity alone does not define a successful life, stressing that the true measure of success lies in the positive legacy a person leaves behind.

According to him, Mama Aruakpor lived an exemplary life whose influence could be seen in the accomplishments of her children nd the countless lives she touched during her lifetime.

“One of the clearest signs of a life well lived is the legacy a person leaves behind. Mama’s legacy can be seen in her children and in the many lives she touched throughout her lifetime,” he stated.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical passage in 2 Timothy 4:7, Governor Oborevwori said the late matriarch’s life reflected the Apostle Paul’s declaration: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

He described her earthly journey as successful and fulfilled, adding that her steadfast faith, dedication to her family and commitment to serving God would continue to inspire future generations.

The governor urged family members and mourners to draw comfort from God’s word and celebrate the deceased’s accomplishments rather than be overwhelmed by grief.

“Today is not only a day of mourning; it is also a day of thanksgiving. We must appreciate God for granting her a long, fruitful and impactful life,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of his prayers. He prayed for God’s comfort upon the children, grandchildren and the entire family, while encouraging them to uphold the values, faith and virtues for which their late mother was known.

He congratulated the family for the worthy life lived by their matriarch and prayed that God would grant her eternal rest and strengthen those she left behind.

In his sermon titled “Christ Is Coming Quickly,” the Archbishop of the Bendel Ecclesiastical Province of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, called on Christians to remain steadfast in faith and live righteous lives in anticipation of the second coming of Jesus Christ.

Preaching from Revelation 22:12-13, Archbishop Odutemu reminded the congregation that Christ’s return is certain and could occur at anytime.

He quoted Jesus’ words: “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work,” emphasizing that believers would be rewarded according to their deeds.

He encouraged believers to use their time on earth to serve God faithfully, demonstrate love toward others and maintain integrity in all their dealings.

According to him, worldly possessions and earthly achievements are temporary, but a relationship with God endures forever. He therefore urged Christians to focus on eternal values and remain prepared for the coming of the Lord, who will return with rewards for those who remain faithful to the end.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara, who passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026. He was 65.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the late Otumara as an accomplished medical practitioner, distinguished administrator, astute politician and committed public servant whose contributions to the development of Delta State would remain indelible.

The Governor said the death of Dr. Otumara was a painful loss not only to his family and the Itsekiri nation but also to Delta State and the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he played several strategic roles.

According to the Governor, Otumara’s remarkable career in public service, healthcare administration and politics reflected his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people and the progress of the state.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the passing of Dr. Joseph Sisanmi Otumara, a distinguished statesman, seasoned administrator and former Commissioner for Health whose service to Delta State was exemplary.

“Dr. Otumara dedicated his life to the service of humanity, first as a medical doctor and later as a public servant who occupied several important positions with diligence, integrity and exceptional competence.

“His contributions to healthcare delivery, local government administration and political development in Delta State remain invaluable. His death is a great loss to the state and the nation,” the Governor said.

Governor Oborevwori extended heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, the people of Warri South, the Itsekiri nation, friends and political associates. He prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of Dr. Otumara’s soul, noting that his legacy of service, leadership and commitment to humanity would continue to inspire future generations.