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Asaba People Endorse Oborevwori for Continuity till 2031

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

The people of Asaba in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, have declared their support for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to continue in office till 2031, pledging to stand firmly behind him in the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement was pronounced on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba, by His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, the Asagba of Asaba, who led a high-powered delegation from the kingdom.
Prof. Azinge commended Governor Oborevwori for his outstanding achievements in infrastructure, human capital development and urban renewal, describing his leadership style as people-oriented and unassailable.
“The love of my people for you is boundless, unshakable and irreversible. In the past two years of your administration, Asaba has witnessed rapid urbanization, improved security, and exponential investment across sectors, making it one of the fastest-growing state capitals in Africa,” the monarch said.
The Asagba also expressed gratitude to the governor for personally presenting him with the staff of office in November 2024, an honour he said was not only for him as an individual but for the entire Asaba community.
He reinstated the unwavering support of the people, while also making appeals for the inclusion of Asaba indigenes in key government appointments, the resumption of work at the International Conference Centre, the development of a master plan for the capital city, and interventions in power supply, water, roads, schools and healthcare facilities in satellite communities.
Responding, Governor Oborevwori thanked the Asagba and the people of Asaba for their steadfast support, describing traditional rulers as vital stakeholders in governance.
“It is always a pleasure to receive our revered traditional rulers whose wisdom and counsel continue to guide us. Since your ascension, Your Majesty, you have brought peace, unity and cultural pride to the Asaba Kingdom,” the governor said.
He assured the monarch that his administration would continue to prioritize the development of the state capital, citing ongoing road projects, storm drainage works re-awarded to CCECC, the resurfacing of Nnebisi Road with streetlights, and the construction of more internal roads under the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency.
Governor Oborevwori also disclosed that the federal government had awarded the reconstruction of the Summit Junction–Head Bridge on the Benin-Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company, with his administration supporting compensation payments for affected persons in the Second Niger Bridge road project.
Reiterating his commitment to inclusivity and sustainable development, Governor Oborevwori urged the Asaba people to extend their goodwill to President Bola Tinubu, stressing the importance of political alignment at the federal level to attract more development to Delta State.
“Asaba is the face of our state, and we must continue to make it beautiful and secure. Working together with our traditional rulers and communities, we will deliver more projects and ensure peace and progress in our state,” he assured.

2nd Edition of Isoko Nation Unity Table Tennis Tournament Commences November 7

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Matthew Unyove

The second edition of Isoko Nation Unity Table Tennis Tournament that is aimed at bringing together young table tennis professionals all over the 23 Clan of Isoko Nationality together, starts November 7th , 2025.

This was made known last Friday at the Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists press centre in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State during a press briefing organized by Comrade Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel in honour of His Excellency RT. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State.

Comrade Palmer pointed out that the initiative is to identify and develop young table tennis talents who would take the stage nationally and internationally.

Additionally , according to the organiser, the tournament is geared towards curbing restivness amongst our young youths, particularly in Isoko Nation with the view of championing unity and inclusivity.

Comrade Palmer also stated that the Mission has acquired over 30 brand-new table tennis boards which will be distributed to the various communities and individuals who wish to have them in their private residences.

He however, pointed out that a total of N10,000,000 in monetary prize  will be grabbed by participants with first position going home with N3,000,000, second position N2,000,000 and third position N1,000,000 with other consolation prizes.

Speaking further, Comrade Palmer called on all well meaning Isoko sons and daughters to support the Government of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to who meant well for the state.

He therefore, expressed appreciation to High Chief Hon Eta Enahoro, Elder Jerusalem Obokeno, Rt Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko, Hon Friday Warri, Hon Elder Godwin Ogorugba, Chief Kome Okpobor and others who are too numerous to mention that contributed to the success of the first edition of the tournament.

TENNIS COMPETITION: Table Tennis is a sport that enhances your physical fitness – Comr. Palmer Nathaniel 

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Marvis Eteriegho-Osiobe

An Emevor born table tennis lover, and SSA to the Delta State Governor,  Comr  Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel has said table tennis is a sport that enhances your physical fitness and help to check various ailments that are associated with you not doing exercise.

He made this assertion during the press conference heralding the second edition of the Isoko Nation Unity Table Tennis Tournament themed “Uniting Isoko Youths Through Sports for Peace and Development -The Tennissing Dimension” held at the Isoko Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists Press Centre, Oleh, yesterday.

In his words, “Table Tennis is one game that is highly underrated. You hardly see Table Tennis being promoted anywhere like football. I’m a Table Tennis enthusiast and so if I have to do something, it has to be related to the sport that I have personal interest in.”

Comr. Palmer who is the initiator of the tournament said his vision of the tournament is bringing the 23 clans of Isoko Nation under one roof, competing for medals in the spirit of sportsmanship, unity and ancestral fraternity.

“Another central goal of this initiative is the identification and development of young Table Tennis professionals who will take the stage both nationally and internationally” he added.

However, he pointed out that the event is proudly organized in honour of the Delta State Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and that the event will be held on Friday November 7th, 2025 with a total of N10m in monetary prize set aside for grab.

Personalities present during the event were Comr.  Michael Ilaya, NUJ Chairman, Isoko Chapel,  Mr. Kelvin Ohoror, Isoko Mirror Editor, Mr. Matthew Unyove, students on industrial attachment and other journalists.

TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT: Table Tennis Enthusiast, Comr. Palmer Sets to Kickstart 2nd Edition of Isoko Nation Table Tennis Tournament November 7

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

An Isoko Table Tennis Enthusiast, Comr. Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel has said all is set to kickstart the 2nd Edition of Isoko Nation Table Tennis Tournament scheduled to start from on the 7th of November, 2025.

This was made known to Journalists last Friday during a press briefing at Isoko Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat, Oleh, Delta State by the initiator/organizer, Comrade Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel, emphasizing that, the tournament was being organized in honor of his political leader, the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Elder Sherrif Oborevwori and to showcase the good works of the Governor’s administration in Isoko nation.

According to the organizer, the initiative is designed to strengthen bonds among Isoko Nation, promote wellness and cohesive living through sports.

“This idea was conceived last year with the vision of bringing together the 23 clans of Isoko nation to compete under one roof, for medals in the spirit of sportsmanship, unity and ancestral fraternity”

He stressed that, “Another central idea of this initiative is the identification and development of young table tennis professionals who will take the stage both nationally and intentionally. The vision is already manifesting, as some of our players who participated in the recently concluded Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) games returned with medals, making Isoko proud “.

He added that, as a result of this year’s tournament, he has acquired over 30 brand new table tennis boards which will be distributed to communities, noting that individuals who desire to have one in their private residence may also apply, provided they demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the game and commitment to it safe keeping.

Palmer further noted that the criteria for participation in the tournament is strictly for those who are indigenes of Isoko either paternally or maternally, emphasing that it is strictly an Isoko affair, including participants  from  Isoko extraction in  the Isoko clans resident both in Ndokwa and Bayelsa states.

The organizer emphasising his enthusiasm for Table Tennis and bemoaning the dwindling interest on the game stated : “I am a lover of table tennis, if you look around you will realize that attention has been focused only on football, everybody is looking towards football related activities. I belong to a club, it is my desire to promote the game, raise the bar and ensure people have interest in the game”.
On what was his drive to organizing the tournament, he stated that “So, I decided that as a table tennis lover, if I am to do something, I have to organize a sport I am in love with. Table tennis is one game that is highly underrated, it is not being promoted like the way football is being done.
“We have table tennis academy in Bayelsa and I have been in touch with the chairman of the Table Tennis Federation in South-South. What I intend to do is that, once we discover that you have the talent for table tennis, we will send you to the academy.
“We know we have people who have the talent but no access to facilities to practice, some of them cannot even afford Spin Bats because they are very expensive”
Speaking further on the benefits of the game, he said that table tennis is a sport that enhance physical fitness, checkmates various ailments associated with not doing exercise.
The initiator and organiser of the tournament, describing the maiden edition of the tournament as nothing comparable in the benefits to participants as to what to expect over the next few days when the tournament commences, revealed that selected players who participated in last year’s edition will from today (5-9-2025) receive professional Spin Bats to aid their practice, stating that the year’s tournament, various monetary prize tags totalling N10M (Ten Million Naira) will be won in the categories of First position prize tag of N3M (Three Million Naira), Second position – N2M (Two Million Naira) and Third position N1M (One Million Naira) respectively.

THE MAN WHO FORGOT HIS PEOPLE 

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Comrade Ilaya Beckly – INPLM President 

Once upon a time, in a land rich with culture and history, there lived a man chosen by his people to carry their voices into the halls of power.

He was not the wealthiest, nor the most educated, but the people trusted him because they believed he understood their pains, their bad roads, their poor schools, their forgotten youths, and their silent tears.

With joy and hope, they sent him forth, drumming songs of victory as he went to represent them.
In their hearts, they prayed that he would fight for them, speak for them, and bring light into their land.

But when he reached the corridors of power, something strange happened. The man who once ate roasted yam with his people now dined on golden plates.

The man who once sat under the mango tree to listen to the elders now sat in air-conditioned halls, sipping expensive wine.

The cries of his people grew faint in his ears, drowned by the sounds of luxury and the whispers of selfish ambition.

He began to believe that the power he held was his birthright, not a trust. He thought his people were too weak, too poor, and too powerless to challenge him. “I have built a structure,” he told himself. “I have money,
I have followers, I have power. Whether they like it or not, they will give me a second chance.”

But what he forgot is that people never forget who stands by them in their hour of need. Money can buy crowds, but it cannot buy loyalty. Structures built on selfishness crumble like sandcastles before the tide.

When the time of decision came, the people remembered. They remembered how he turned his back on them. They remembered how he forgot the promises he made and quietly, one by one, they chose another path.

On the day of reckoning, the man stood tall, expecting cheers and praise. But instead of songs of victory, he met silence. Instead of drums of celebration, he heard the whispers of rejection. His so-called ‘structure’ collapsed. His money could not save him.

Only then did he realize the bitter truth, a leader without his people is like a tree without roots.
No matter how tall it grows, it will surely fall.

And so, the man who once dreamed of a second chance discovered that he was only dreaming. For in the end, it is not money or power that secures leadership, but love, trust, and service to the people.

End of the story…….

OPINION: INPLM Objects to Second Tenure for Isoko Nation Ineffective Legislators

By
Isoko Nation News
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Failure is not just a personal weakness, it is a collective tragedy when it comes from those entrusted with leadership. When leaders fail, communities suffer. Roads remain untarred, schools collapse, hospitals lack drugs, youths wander in hopelessness, and development becomes a mirage.

Sadly, this is the harsh reality confronting Isoko Nation under the watch of our current representatives in the Delta State House of Assembly.

The three individuals sent to Asaba to represent the voice of our people have failed woefully in their constitutional mandate. Representation is not a privilege; it is a sacred duty.
Lawmaking, oversight, and constituency development are not optional responsibilities, they are obligations. Yet, what do we see?
Silence, absence, and gross underperformance.

Lack of Visible Legislative Impact

Over the past years, the Isoko Nation cannot point to any meaningful bill, motion, or legislative action initiated by our representatives that has brought lasting change. Representation is not about collecting salaries and allowances, it is about influencing policies and attracting development. Where is their imprint? Where is their legacy?

Abandonment of Constituency Needs

Communities in Isoko still cry for basic amenities, roads, boreholes, electricity, youth empowerment, health centers, and functional schools. These are not luxuries but essentials. If our lawmakers were truly effective, they would have leveraged their offices to ensure government attention to these critical needs. Instead, our people are left to wallow in neglect while they enjoy the benefits of office.

Failure to Speak Truth to Power

A representative who cannot speak boldly on behalf of his people in the chambers of government is unworthy of re-election. At a time when other ethnic nationalities are pushing aggressively for their share of development, Isoko’s voice is drowned in silence. Our representatives prefer political survival to genuine advocacy. That silence is betrayal.

The Danger of Rewarding Failure

If we, as a people, reward failure with a second tenure, then we normalize incompetence. We send a dangerous signal that Isoko Nation tolerates mediocrity. We cannot afford that. Our future, our children’s future, and the image of Isoko before the larger Delta State depend on making the right choice.

Isoko Nation is too enlightened, too resourceful, and too strategic to be reduced to political redundancy. We deserve leaders with vision, courage, and the will to deliver. The time has come to reject recycled failure. The time has come to demand accountability. The time has come to chart a new course.

As a progressive body committed to the unity and advancement of Isoko, Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) makes it categorically clear:

The three members representing Isoko Nation in the Delta State House of Assembly do not deserve a second tenure. They have failed us, and failure must not be rewarded.

History will not forgive a people who recognize failure yet endorse it.

Isoko Nation must rise to the challenge of electing credible, competent, and courageous leaders who will not only occupy seats but also use them for the advancement of our collective destiny.

The choice is ours, remain stagnant under failed leadership or move forward under true representation.

INPLM chooses progress.

INPLM chooses accountability.

INPLM chooses a new dawn for Isoko Nation.

Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly
Founder/President
Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM)

Engr. Orobosa Ashakah Felicitates Chief Kestin Pondi on Niger Delta Man of the People Award

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya 

The Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Tantita Security Services Limited and Chairman Maro-kana Group of Companies, Engr. Orobosa Ashakah, has felicitated his Boss and Mentor , High Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Limited, on his meritorious 2025 Niger Delta Man of the People Award.

Engr Ashakah in his felicitation message described High Chief Pondi’s recognition and award as a reward for his philanthropist gestures, visionary leadership and selfless services to humanity which characterise his life style over the years.

He said “my Boss life style of generosity has transformed many lives across the Niger Delta region; and his purposeful leadership as the Managing Director of  Tantita Security Services Limited has restored lasting peace and economic growth to our great Nation Nigeria and beyond.

He eulogised High Chief Pondi as humility personified and applauded his commitment in ensuring full delivery of the Tantita Security Services limited mandate which has resulted in geometric increase in oil and gas production in Federal Republic of Nigeria, praying God Almighty continue to protect him and grant him more wisdom to do more for Niger Delta people and Africa at large.

He said “On behalf of my lovely family and esteemed members of the Maro-kana Group of Companies, I sincerely rejoice with you on this special prestigious award as we look forward to more celebrations.

“Thank you for always carrying me on your shoulders to see far in life”.

Irri Development Union Elects New Executive Amidst Jubilation

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Irri Development Union (IDU) in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, has elected new executive to run the affairs of the community for the next two years.

In a keenly contested election, the electoral committee Chairman, Mr. Ovetiri Felix declared Deacon Richard Othuke Edho who polls 76 votes as the President elect of the community while his closest rival Mr. Pius Okogba polls 46 votes and Mr. Eugene Ekee polls 9 votes of the accredited 131 votes.

Other elected officers are: Mr. Opia Keno Vice- President, Mr. Utoware Charles Akpotu – Secretary, Mrs. Onorukore Innocent – Chair-Lady, Mr. Odike Oghenero Apena – Town Planning, Mr. Ewhobo Solomon Onokurefe – Financial Secretary, Mr. Oghale Christian- Treasurer, Mr. Eveve Frank Oghenejutome – Public Relations Officer, and Mr. Biddulp Akpoghene – Provost amongst others.

Speaking to newsmen immediately after he was declared winner, the newly elected president of Irri Development Union, Deacon Richard Othuke Edho, told journalists that his election today is the divine work of God Almighty, not by his power, assuring that he will bring everybody onboard to work for the overall interest and development of the community.

He added that his administration will foster peace, unity, progress and security to accelerate development of the community.

He also enjoined those that lost during the contest at all levels of the election to join hands with him to build the community to the next level of development. He thanked the community for their support assuring them that he will never betray the trust and confidence they have on him.

Earlier, declaring the conference open, the Odio-logbo of Irri Kingdom, HRM Simon Wajutome Odhomo,  admonished delegates, contestants and the electoral committee to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner to ensure the success of the election.

He stated that they should all endeavour to abide by the constitution of the community in all activities, noting that no one has the right to impose any candidate or contestant on the people no matter how highly placed including himself.

He urged all-would-be winners of the election to be committed to work for the interest of the community, warning that any elected persons who fails to perform his or her duties or found to have compromised would be removed before the end of the tenure in accordance with the constitution of the community.

Meanwhile, the outgoing President of the Irri Development Union, Mr. John Ozareva Eweh, in his address said that he came into office September 2023 with high hopes of new beginning, that in spite all odds, his administration was able to keep the flag flying with some modest achievements that laid the foundation for a more stable and strong community.

The highlight of the election was jubilation in their entire Irri community for a successful conduct of the election that ushered in the new executive to run the affairs of the community.

OZORO: INPLM Demands Award of Phase 2 & 3 of Ozoro Modern Market

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

A sociopolitical pressure group, Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM), has demanded for the award and commencement of Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Ozoro Modern Market project.

The President and Secretary General, Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly and Julius Ogeh Othuke raised the concern in a statement yesterday in their social media handle, urging the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, having acknowledged and commended the progress of Phase 1 of the Ozoro Modern Market, to award and commence work on Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the project.

According to the group, “As sons and daughters of Isoko, we acknowledge and commend the progress of Phase 1 of the Ozoro Modern Market, which is now at the verge of completion for commissioning.

“But as a people, we must look beyond Phase 1 and focus on the bigger picture, the completion of the entire project”

The statement by the group further stated that “This development is a testament to the government’s recognition of Ozoro’s place as a fast-growing urban hub, a commercial nucleus, and a kingdom of great repute in Delta State.

The group canvassed further in their statement why the award of Phase 2 and Phase 3 should not be delayed, stating that “Ozoro’s position as an economic hub and the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area, is not just a traditional kingdom but a commercial heartbeat of Isoko. Daily, traders, farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs troop into Ozoro from neighboring communities. A half-completed market will not serve this growing economic pressure; only a fully developed market with expanded capacity can”.

Furthermore, the group cited the reason of avoiding wastage and redundancy, that “If Phase 2 and Phase 3 are delayed, the momentum, mobilization, and resources already committed to Phase 1 may suffer setbacks. Awarding all phases together ensures continuity, proper planning, and uniform standards, instead of piecemeal structures that may create disparities or even fall short of a true ‘modern market’ status”.

Other reseans include creating of employment and economic opportunities, that “Awarding Phase 2 and Phase 3 immediately will open more doors for job creation from construction workers to local suppliers, artisans, and vendors. Beyond construction, the completed market will empower thousands of Isoko youths and women, stimulating small and medium-scale businesses.

“With the presence of the Southern Delta University (SDU), the Ozoro kingdom has experienced rapid urbanization and population growth. Students, staff, and investors require a well-structured market to support the economy of the area. Anything short of a comprehensive market project would be a gross under-service to the people.

“A project of this magnitude should not stop halfway. The government has an opportunity to write its name in gold by ensuring Ozoro does not end up with a glorified “mini-market,” but instead boasts of a standard commercial center befitting its status as one of the most developed kingdoms in Isoko and Delta State at large”

The INPLM, therefore calls on the Delta State Government, the Ministry of Urban Renewal, and all relevant stakeholders to approve, award, and commence Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Ozoro Modern Market.

“We appeal that this should be done before or alongside the commissioning of Phase 1, so that the momentum is not lost and the vision of a complete modern market is not abandoned halfway.

“Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) believes that development should be holistic, timely, and people-centered. Ozoro deserves nothing less than a fully functional, modern, and standard market that serves today and prepares for tomorrow”.

“The journey has begun with Phase 1, but the true destination lies in Phase 2 and Phase 3. INPLM will not rest until the dream of a complete Ozoro Modern Market becomes a reality”, the statement added.

Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff Felicitate DESOPADEC EDFA Induction as Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

A political pressure group, Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff has felicitated with the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission Executive Director for Finance and Administration (EDFA), Chief Kome Okpobor as he was inducted Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultant (FIMC).

In statement signed by the group Director General, Chief Frank Ozue and the Spokesperson Hon. Emakpor Odogu, an Executive Assistant to Delta State Governor on Community Development state that, “We are delighted to announce and congratulate Chief Kome Okpobor, Convener of Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff and Executive Director of Finance and Administration at DESOPADEC, on his outstanding achievement, as he was honored as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants”.

The group said that “This prestigious recognition is a testament to Chief Okpobor’s exceptional expertise, leadership, and dedication to the field of management consulting. His achievement meets the highest international standards, solidifying his position as a respected professional in his field”.

According to them, the FIMC as one of the highest professional honours in the field of management consulting, is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, ethical practice, and measurable impact across industries.

They added that, “With this recognition, Chief Okpobor joins an elite network of management professionals whose expertise and contributions meet the highest international standards, that is acknowledged worldwide as a mark of excellence and competence in consulting practice.

“We extend our warmest congratulations to Chief Okpobor on this remarkable milestone. His accomplishment not only brings pride to Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff and DESOPADEC but also serves as an inspiration to others”.

The statement further reads. “We celebrate Chief Okpobor’s commitment to excellence and look forward to his continued contributions to the growth and development of our community

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