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Isoko Chapel NUJ Charges NDDC on  Power Supply, Others

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel has called on the Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC), “to expedite action on the 33kv line from Ughelli to Ozoro to urgently salvage the continuous power outage in the area”.

This call is contained in communique issued at the end of its last Congress held at the Chapel Press Centre in Oleh recently.

According to the Communique, activating the 33kv electricity project will bring a turnaround in the socio-economic life of the Isoko people.

Congress in session also noted that “despite the fact that the Delta State budget 2026 has been passed and signed into law, and noted the continual marginalization of Isoko Nation in the state budgetary provisions in the past, it also expressed strong hope that such trend should be reversed and Isoko Nation be taken into cognizance for a fair share of projects allocation to reflect its status as a major oil and gas producing entity”.

The Communique signed by Comrade Solomon Akora and Comrade Matthew Unyove, Chairman and Secretary respectively also note “with dismay the spate of shoddy jobs execution as well as abandonment of roads and other projects in Isoko land and demand Government’s stringent oversight and sanction erring contractors while charging them to execute developmental projects that will stand the test of time in Isoko land”.

Furthermore, Congress also commends the two Isoko Local Government Council administrations and the security agencies for the relative peace around Isoko communities and calls for intensified efforts to sustain it.

In addition, Congress urges the respective government and administrations at all levels; including the Presidents-General of communities to renew the campaign against bush burning as the harmattan season approaches to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The Chapel equally congratulates the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Isoko North and South Local Government chapters on their recent successful elections of new Executive committees and hopes for a sustainable cordial working relationship between the two formidable trade and professional unions.

COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE MONTHLY CONGRESS OF ISOKO CHAPEL OF THE NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ) HELD ON 14TH DECEMBER, 2025 AT THE PRESS CENTRE, OLEH.

Congress in section presided over by the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Michael Ilaya and attended by large turnout of members discussed extensively current developments in the local government and the state and resolved as follows.

1.That despite the fact that the Delta State budget 2026 has been passed and signed into law, and noted the continual marginalization of Isoko Nation in the state budgetary provisions in the past, Congress expressed strong hope that such reprehensible trend should be reversed and Isoko Nation been taken into cognizance for a fair share of projects allocation to reflect its status as a major oil and gas producing entity.

2. Congress observed with great concern the comatose electricity supply in Isoko land. Calls on the NDDC to expedite action on the 33kv line from Ughelli to Ozoro to urgently salvage the continuous power outage in the area.

3.Congress also notes with dismay the spate of shoddy jobs execution as well as abandonment of roads and other projects in Isoko land and demand Government’s stringent oversight and punish erring contractors while charging contractors to execute developmental projects that will stand the test of time in Isoko land.

4.Congress also unanimously commend the two Isoko Local Local Government Council administration and the security agencies for the relative peace around Isoko communities and calls for intensified efforts to sustain it.

5.Congress urges the respective governments and administration at all levels including the Presidents-General of communities to renew the campaign against bush burning as the harmattan season approaches to ensure the safety of lives and property.

6. Congress also congratulates the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Isoko North and South Local Government Areas on their recent successful election of new Executive committees and hopes for a sustainable cordial working relationship between the two formidable trade and professional unions.

 

Communique Drafting Committee

Comrade Solomon Akora – Chairman

Comrade Matthew Unyove – Secretary

Comrade Kelvin Ohoror – Member

INPLM Pays Strategic Visit to Grand Patron, Engr. Ashakah to strengthen unity, respect

By Michael Ilaya 

The Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) in a demonstration of unity, respect, and collective vision for the progress of the Isoko Nation, led by it’s President and Founder, Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly, has on Sunday paid a strategic courtesy visit to their Grand Patron, Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro at his country home in Ozoro.

The visit, according to the President, was more than a formal engagement; it was a reaffirmation of shared values, common purpose, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of Isoko people.

“Members of INPLM were received with open arms by Engr. Uzuazormaro, whose legacy of service, integrity, and people-centred leadership continues to inspire a new generation of progressive minds”.

Speaking further during the visit, Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly described Engr. Ashakah  as a bridge between experience and youthful energy, noting that his counsel, support, and mentorship have remained vital to the growth and direction of INPLM.

He emphasized that the organization remains focused on constructive engagement, grassroots development, and strategic advocacy aimed at repositioning Isoko Nation for sustainable growth.

Responding, Engr. Ashakah commended INPLM for its consistency, discipline, and clarity of purpose.

He encouraged members to remain united, resilient, and principled, stressing that meaningful development is achieved through patience, strategic thinking, and collective sacrifice.

He further urged the youths to shun divisive politics and embrace collaboration, integrity, and service to humanity.

The President also added that the “interaction created a platform for robust discussions on leadership, youth participation, community development, and the future of Isoko Nation.

“It also strengthened the bond between INPLM and its Grand Patron, reinforcing the belief that progress is best achieved when experience and youthful innovation work hand in hand”.

The courtesy visit concluded on a note of renewed hope and determination, with INPLM members reaffirming their commitment to championing the cause of unity, good governance, and people-oriented development across Isoko land.

Comrade Ilaya Beckly emphasized that “Indeed, the visit stands as a powerful reminder that when progressive minds align with visionary leadership, the future remains promising and achievable.

Hon. Ogorugba Inaugurates Isoko North Health Board to Boost Primary Healthcare Delivery

By Favour Atehe

The chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon.(Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has last Thursday, inaugurated the Board Members of the Isoko North Local Government Health Authority (INLGHA) with a mandate to strengthen and reposition primary healthcare delivery across the LGA.

The Inauguration which took place at the Council Secretariat in Ozoro, Isoko North headquarters, aims to ensure that residents benefit from an efficient, accessible, proactive and people – centres primary health system.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Ogorugba said the board was constituted to support the Executive Secretary of the Primary Healthcare Centre in providing strong leadership in planning, coordination and supervision of all primary health facilities in the area.

He noted that members were deliberately selected based on their competence, integrity and passion for public service.

The Council Chairman urged the new board to deliver on their mandate, stressing that effective healthcare remains a top priority of his administration.

“You must put in your best to ensure improved service delivery in our primary healthcare centers”, he added.

The newly inaugurated board members include Mrs. Anthonia Okumor – Chairman, Dcn. Ogorugba Veronica and Hon. Anthony Odhibi as members respectively while Dr. Doris Oboh to serve as Secretary.

In her acceptance remarks, the Board Chairman, Mrs. Okumor, thanked the Council Chairman for prioritizing healthcare in Isoko North and for the opportunity given to them to serve.

She pledged the board’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities saying “We will not betray the confidence reposed in us. We promise to deliver on this assignment”, she assured.

The event was witnessed by top Council officials including the Secretary to the Local Government, (Barr) Vote Umukoro; Supervisor for Environment, Comr. Alebe Joshua Onos; Head of personal Management, Mrs. Irene Onwodi; Treasurer, Queen Fejiro Ogbogbo and other officials

Hon. Ogorugba Inaugurates Isoko North Health Board to Boost Primary Healthcare Delivery

By  Favour Atehe

The Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon.(Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has last Thursday, inaugurated the Board Members of the Isoko North Local Government Health Authority (INLGHA) with a mandate to strengthen and reposition primary healthcare delivery across the LGA.

The Inauguration which took place at the Council Secretariat in Ozoro, Isoko North headquarters, aims to ensure that residents benefit from an efficient, accessible, proactive and people – centres primary health system.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Ogorugba said the board was constituted to support the Executive Secretary of the Primary Healthcare Centre in providing strong leadership in planning, coordination and supervision of all primary health facilities in the area.

He noted that members were deliberately selected based on their competence, integrity and passion for public service.

The Council Chairman urged the new board to deliver on their mandate, stressing that effective healthcare centres remains a top priority of his administration.

“You must put in your best to ensure improved service delivery in our primary healthcare centers”, he added.

The newly inaugurated board members include Mrs. Anthonia Okumor – Chairman, Dcn. Ogorugba Veronica and Hon. Anthony Odhibi as members respectively while Dr. Doris Oboh to serve as Secretary.

In her acceptance remarks, the Board Chairman, Mrs. Okumor, thanked the Council Chairman for prioritizing healthcare in Isoko North and for the opportunity given to them to serve.

She Pledged the board’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities saying “We will not betray the confidence reposed in us. We promise to deliver on this assignment”, she assured.

The event was witnessed by top Council officials including the Secretary to the Local Government, (Barr) Vote Umukoro; Supervisor for Environment, Comr. Alebe Joshua Onos; Head of personal Management, Mrs. Irene Onwodi; Treasurer, Queen Fejiro Ogbogbo and other officials

EDUCATION: NUT Isoko South Local Government Branch Elects New Executive

By Michael Ilaya

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Isoko South Local Government Area Branch on Friday held it’s 8th Quadrennial Delegates Conference and elected new officials to pilot the affairs of the Union for a period of four years with the emergence of Comrade Okolo Evi , a mathematics and Computer Science teacher at the Origho Primary School, Emosonye, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State as Chairman.

Comrade Okolo Evi

The newly elected Comr. Okolo won with 204 votes to defeat her opponent, Comr. Ejezire Goodluck , who polled 136 votes in an open ballot contest.

The election, held at the NUT Secretariat Hall, Oleh, was praised as one of the best and most peaceful and first in the history of the NUT in Delta state for a woman to emerge as winner.

Other elected officials are Agbagbatu C. Onutomaha, Deputy Chairman, Egbe Anthony , Branch Secretary, Idhalama Orevaoghene, Treasurer, and Orife Isaac Efemena as Branch Financial Secretary while the position of Publicity Secretary went to Osokpor Collins.

Also Comrades Udemude Helen was elected as Branch Social Secretary and Igrigi Kingsley Assistant Secretary.

The posts of First, Second, and Third Vice Chairmen were won by Comrades Enua Mike, Uzobo Augustine and Ejeh Stella Ogheneweware respectively, while Comrades Egwero John Meriomame and Edo Israel were elected as the First and Second Examiners of Accounts, respectively.

In her post-election speech, the newly elected Chairman of the NUT Isoko South Local Branch, Comrade Okolo Evi expressed gratitude to all the delegates and teachers in the local government for the trust placed in her.

She promised not to let them down and assured that she will build on the legacy of her predecessors, with emphasis on the welfare of teachers that will be topmost in her agenda, saying she would tackle the issues of the non release of teachers pay slips and ensure the removal of the stagnant level 14 ceiling placed on promotion.

She also promised to involve everyone in the decision-making process in the branch.

Earlier in his address, the new State Chairman of NUT, Delta State Wing, Comrade Poubeni Dickson, admonished delegates at the conference to be thorough and wise in their choice of candidates to fill the 13 elective positions; urging the the leadership of the Union at the local government level to keep faith with an earlier directive of the National Headquarters in equitable zoning arrangement of offices in the NUT.

He emphasized that the directive stipulates “ensuring that the 14 contestable positions are equitably shared between primary and secondary schools to give the two sectors of the Union a high sense of belonging in the service of teachers”

The state chairman, who was represented by the State NUT 2nd Vice Chairman, Comrade Ovhrakpa Ese advised the delegates to exhibit a high sense of maturity and decorum in the course of the election, with a charge to eschew sentiments, ethnic chauvinism , class distinction and caucus considerations and to be objective and unbiased in the choice of leaders to champion their cause till the end of the tenure of the executive.

In his opening address, the outgoing chairman, Chief Dan Odhomo, charged the leaders that will emerge from the elections to always leverage and maintain the established cordial relationship with other educational stakeholders which provided them the requisite peaceful industrial relationships.

He charged them to work in synergy with the State Executive to proffer solutions to the challenges confronting the Union including issues of level 14 Ceiling and provision of pay slip to primary school teachers that need to be laid to rest.

Present at the conference were all the delegates, State NUT 2nd Vice Chairman, Comrade Ovhrakpa Ese, State Officer, Comrade Etakebo Power, representative of the Isoko South Local Government Council Chairman , LEA Secretary, Hon. Ese Blessing and a host of other stakeholders.

The newly elected NUT Isoko South Local Government Branch Executive were formally inaugurated by the State NUT 2nd Vice Chairman, Comrade Ovhrakpa Ese.

Primate, Church of Nigeria Ang. Communion, Most Revd. Ndukuba Inaugurates Ozoro Diocese, Enthrones Rt. Revd. Idume as Pioneer Bishop

By Marvis Osiobe-Eterigho

The Primate, Church of Nigeria Ang. Communion, Most Revd. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, last Tuesday inaugurated Ozoro Diocese and Enthroned the Pioneer Bishop, Rt. Revd. Ewomazino Benjamin Idume as its pioneer Bishop.

Rt. Revd. Idume (Centre) with other newly elected bishops 

Rt Revd. Idume who was elected on September 18th, 2025 and consecrated November 19th, 2025 at the Cathedral, Church of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti and the Cathedral, Church of Advent, Life Camp, Abuja respectively, is a native of Aviara, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State.

Most Revd. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba

According to sources, he is a seasoned, dynamic and charismatic church leader; a visionary man with deep passion for church planting, growth and the unity of God’s church.

Rt. Revd. Ewomazino Benjamin Idume

Delivering a sermon during the service, the new Ozoro Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Revd. Ewomazino Benjamin Idume , anchoring his message on John 9:4, stated the need for Christians to do the work of God while alive, with emphasis that “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: night cometh when no man can work”.

“As we begin this journey as a Diocese, we must ponder and meditate on the very words of Jesus, who have no other manifesto or agenda than the ministry of God.

“Nothing can be more important to us at this time as we begin our journey than to remind ourselves that God has called us together to fulfill a mission, which is taking the gospel of Jesus Christ to the whole world.”

The Bishop, citing Biblical examples, including the story of the children of Israel who God gave commandments, stated that “God assured the people of Israel His presence at all times as long as they obey His commandments. Whenever the children of Israel disobeys God, they face consequences. Whenever they follow God’s commandments, they prosper in all their ways.”

He commended the three Primates whom he have been under in his 21 years as a clergy man including The Most Revds Peter Jasper Akinola, Nicholas D.O. Omoh and Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, adding that it has been the grace of God all through the years.

Also speaking during the service, The Archbishop of Ecclesiastical Province of Ibadan, Most Revd Joseph O. Akinfenwa admonished the congregation, saying “Today is a very happy day, it is a dream come true after a lot of hard work and challenges.

“New Dioceses are created because we want the work of evangelism to reach deeper and deeper into the nations. The goal is to win the entire nations to Christ.”

Continuing, he stated that the journey of the new Bishop is an eventful one, adding that “From student unionism to student fellowship leadership to politics in school and now to church leadership.”

Speaking further, he charged the new Bishop not to love the world according to 1st John 2:15-16, that “To do this work well, is to embrace a life of sacrifice from now. It is to embrace the life that carries the cross daily.

“Pioneering a diocese is a lot of work. In a new diocese, you pick something from the ground and lift it up.”

Highlight of the service was the choral presentation by St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, Aviara choir.

Personalities present were Hon. Johnson Erijo, Hon Godwin Ogorugba, Hon Friday Ovoke Warri, Rt. Revd. John Usiwoma Aruakpor, Anglican bishops and clergymen, parishioners and other guests.

Oborevwori’s Wife Inaugurates Cottage Hospital In Ughelli

First Lady of Delta State, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed Tobore Oborevwori Cottage Hospital in Ughelli North Local Government Area, describing the project as a “beacon of hope, healing, and humanity” for the people.

The ceremony, held on December 2, 2025, marked a major milestone in the local government’s healthcare expansion efforts, led by Chairman Olorogun Jaro Egbo, who described the hospital as part of a broader vision to deliver accessible, affordable, and reliable healthcare to residents of Ughelli North.
In an emotionally charged speech, the First Lady expressed deep gratitude to the local government council for naming the facility after her, stating that the honour underscored the value placed on her modest contributions to the welfare of Deltans.
“It gladdens my heart to know that my modest contributions are being recognized and valued. It feels good to be home, home sweet home,” she said.
She commended the council chairman and his team for “breaking barriers and creating access to affordable, quality healthcare for our people,” adding that the project aligns perfectly with the commitment of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to human-centered development.
The First Lady praised her husband for his reforms in the state’s health sector, citing the recent reduction of dialysis fees from ₦75,000 to ₦40,000, the provision of new dialysis and CT machines across government hospitals, and the ongoing rehabilitation of 150 Primary Healthcare Centres across the 25 Local Government Areas.
“God will help the governor to achieve more. He is working, and it is showing,” she declared.
Highlighting her philanthropic activities, Deaconess Oborevwori noted that her ‘You mata Charity Foundation’ recently conducted a free medical outreach for children with special needs in Ughelli, providing medications, wheelchairs, and assistive devices.
She recalled a remarkable moment during the outreach where a woman who delivered triplets received over ₦8.1 million raised through spontaneous donations, describing the gesture as “a testimony of God’s grace.”
She assured that similar outreaches will be extended to Delta North and Delta South.
In his address, Chairman of the Local Government Council, Hon Jaro Egbo said the new facility was conceived as part of his administration’s strategic plan to strengthen the local health system.

“Healthcare is not a privilege for a few, but a right for all,” he said.
Egbo expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for providing an enabling environment for development, noting that the Renewed Hope For MORE Agenda has been the foundation upon which several projects including the cottage hospital have been executed.
He also thanked the First Lady for commissioning the project, describing her as an embodiment of compassion whose influence continues to inspire the people of Ughelli North.
Egbo urged residents to protect the facility from vandalism, stressing that sustainability depends on community ownership and cooperation.
Chairman of the occasion and head of the Ughelli North Local Government Advisory Committee, Chief Miller Uloho, extolled Governor Oborevwori for his “exceptional leadership,” recalling the governor’s role in resolving long-standing land acquisition disputes in Osubi that threatened the airport project.
He described the governor as “a naturally gifted leader” whose capacity earned him a seat on the maiden flight that opened the Osubi airport.
Uloho also applauded Jaro Egbo’s performance, urging him to sustain the developmental momentum, and appealed to the First Lady to ensure the new cottage hospital remains functional, well-funded, and properly maintained.
Executive Secretary of the Ughelli North Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Tega Ighovo, announced that the hospital is fully equipped with modern facilities, including an ambulance and diagnostic equipment, enabling it to serve as a referral centre for primary healthcare clinics across the Local Government Area.

Delta South APC Youth Honour Hon. Ashaka With Merit Award for Progressive Support

By Clara Obialazor

The Delta South APC Youths, on Sunday presented a Delta South Merit Award to Hon. Orobosa Uzuazomaro Ashakah at his Ozoro residence, in recognition of his exceptional support, commitment, and loyalty to the progress of APC youths across the district.

The award, described as well-deserved and timely, is in celebration of Comr. Ashakah’s unwavering dedication to youth development; grassroots political participation, and his continuous contributions toward strengthening the party’s youth structures.

Presenting the award, the APC Youth leader, Comr. Ede Hyacinth Ewariezi commended Ashakah for standing firmly with the youths at critical moments, noting that his passion and sacrifices have significantly contributed to building confidence and unity among young APC members.

“His open door leadership style, active engagement with young party members, and consistent encouragement of youths driven initiatives have earned him admiration across Delta South”.

Receiving the award, Comr. Orobosa Ashakah expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Delta South APC Youths for the honour, describing it as a motivation to continue championing youth empowerment, political inclusion, and sustainable development within the party and beyond.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the growth, relevance, and active participation of youths in the socio-political landscape of Delta State.

The event was marked by cheers, solidarity, and renewed energy among party youths who described Ashakah as a dependable ally and a true pillar of support.

NUJ, Isoko Chapel Pays Condolence Visit to Late Onowemre’s Family

By Matthew Unyove

The members of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists last Thursday paid a condolence visit to the family of late Comrade Mark Onoweme at Enwhe in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Late Comrade Mark Onoweme, a seasoned journalist, who played active roles in various capacities as the pioneer Secretary and one time Vice Chairman of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists died recently from a protracted illness.

Speaking during the condolence visit, the leader of Isoko Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Emmanuel Ekebe, consoled the widow, children and family members of late Comrade Onoweme over his sudden demise.

He also encouraged them to take heart especially at this moment of grief and prayed God Almighty to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

He however, assured them of the Chapel’s assistance and cooperation during the burial ceremony to justify the dedication and commitment exhibited by late Comrade Mark Onoweme towards the Isoko Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, and by extension Delta State Council while he was alive.

Responding on behalf of the family of late Comrade Onoweme’s family, Mr Peter Akokotu expressed delight over NUJ demonstration of love towards late Comrade Onoweme before and after his death.

Mr Akokotu therefore, solicited the collaboration of Nigeria Union of Journalists toward the burial of the renowned journalist, late Comrade Onoweme , adding that as soon as the burial date is fixed, Isoko Chapel of NUJ would be notified.

Members of the Isoko Chapel of the NUJ who were present during the condolence visit include Comrades Michael Ilaya, Chairman of Isoko Chapel, Emmanuel Ekebe, State Ex-Officio member of the Delta State Council, Matthew Unyove, Secretary, Kelvin Ohoror, Financial Secretary, Ekemena Azaino and Solomon Akora.

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