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OLEH: Ubara Family Queries Ozoro Magistrate Court Judgement, Petitions Delta CJ

By Mike Ilaya

The family of late Paris Ubara in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area, have petitioned the Honorable Chief Judge (CJ) of Delta State, accusing the Presiding Officer of the Chief Magistrate Grade 1 Ozoro, H. A. Enakpoya, Esq.” of injustice and grant of an order not sought for and without jurisdiction.”
In the petition signed on behalf of the family by Pst. Mario Ubara, Kelvin Ubara, Mrs. Victory Oroh, Mrs. Vino Marian Lawrence and Mrs. Roseline Ubara, dated August 26 addressed to the Honorable Chief Judge (CJ) of Delta State , in response to the enrolled Order in Suit No. MCZ/M/17/2025 involving one Mrs. Blessing Paris & Ors Vs Kelvin Ubara & Ors, the family described the order by the Magistrate “as over reaching and use of exceptional powers meant for urgent and compelling circumstances.”
“We are head and members of Ubara Family of Oleh who lost our son Paris Ubara wherein we prepared for his burial according to our tradition . It is sad that the judicial power vested in the Magistrate Court under the Presiding Officer, the Chief Magistrate Grade 1, H. A. Enakpoya Esq, is now using it to make order(s) not sought for and neither does he have jurisdiction in respect of matters of traditional burial, inheritance, custody of children. He even made an order exparte for Autopsy without hearing from us on notice neither was there any allegation of murder of the deceased or investigation by the Police authority “.
The petitioners averred in their statement that the 1st Applicant, Mrs. Blessing Paris, never returned to the husband’s house after the demise of her late husband until after one month before bringing the exparte motion without putting the family on notice, which shows that there is no urgency.
The family further queried: “the question is, where was she living for the period of one month before bringing the application?. Not withstanding, the Magistrate gave an order with regards to residential premises which is fully vested in the Customary Courts of Delta State”
Stating further, the family, outside condemning the Applicant’s choice of instituting the case in Courts in Isoko North instead of Courts in Isoko South Local Government Area where all parties are resident, also cited the issue of safety in prosecuting the case if allowed to proceed at Ozoro court, saying “we are also appealing to you sir, the Isoko North wherein the applicants instituted the case is not safe for us as we cannot be attending court in Ozoro Community because of the boundary dispute between the two communities. We are frontiers of AKwisi bush and Odah bush wherein 12 people have died from Oleh”
Recall that the 1st – 4th Applicants in the persons of Mrs. Blessing Paris, Miss Fulfillment Paris, Master Fountain Paris and Miss Faithfulness Paris had approached the Ozoro Magisterial District Court vide a Suit with No. MCZ/M/17/2025 seeking for an order to compelling and/or mandating the Applicants and the Respondents to conduct Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)text fort with to determine the paternity of (1) Fulfilment Paris ‘F’ (2) Fountain Paris ‘M’ and (3) Fruitfulness Paris (F’) disputed by the Respondents under the supervision of the Registrar of the Court in a DNA Centre or laboratory to be financed by by the Respondents to conduct the text and to file the said DNA text result in this Honourable Court before the internment and burial ceremony of Late Blessed Paris Ubara – the Husband and father of the 1st and 2nd – 4th Applicants respectively; And for such further other orders this Honourable Court may deem necessary to make in the circumstances of this application.
In response to the motion on notice of the applicants, the respondents represented by Kelvin Ubara, Pst. Mario Gabriel Ubara, Mrs. Victory Oroh, Mrs. Vino Marian Lawrence and Mrs. Roseline Ubara filed a 30 paragraph counter affidavit in opposition to the motion on notice signed by Kelvin Ubara and filed on 25th August, 2025.
However, all efforts to reach the the 1st Applicant, Mrs. Blessing Paris, wife of the late Paris Ubara for comments proved abortive as non of her late husband’s family members seem to have her contacts and whereabout.
Further efforts to reach out to her, revealed that she was in the custody of the Delta State Investigation Department (CID) over an alleged case of human trafficking instituted against her by one Frank Agbaragu.
As at the time of going to press, it was not confirmed if the office of the Chief Judge of Delta state has reacted to the petition of the Ubaras.
Meanwhile, a ministry of justice source that wish not to be quoted how hinted that ” the Courts are on vacation now and coupled with the ongoing NBA national Conference in Enugu, nothing meaningful can come out for now”.

DELTA @ 34: CRCEI Congratulates Deltans, Calls for Collective Action to Develop the State, Tasks Government on Food Security, Social Justice, Rule Of Law

By Emeka Nwokocha

The leadership of a frontline human rights defender, Citizens Rights Concern Enhancement Initiative (CRCEI), also known as Human Rights Protection Congress, has congratulated the people of Delta State on the occasion of the State’s 34th anniversary celebration.

In a statement signed by the National Coordinator of CRCEI, Amb. (Dcn) Monday Enudi, the leadership of CRCEI stated that since the creation of Delta State on 27th August, 1991, she has witnessed a mix of development and challenges which are typical of every growing state across the globe.

The leadership of CRCEI commended the past and present governments of the state for attaining the current level of development in all facets of life, especially hemming the unity among the ethnic groups and taken the development of the state to its present height, despite inherent challenges.

Continuing, they commended Deltans for showing resilience and commitment to collectively work to advance the socioeconomic, infrastructural, and political development of the state for the past three decades.

Recalling the enviable status of Delta as a rich state, mostly in crude oil and gas resources, the leadership of CRCEI passionately called on governor Sheriff Oborevwori to sustain his infrastructural development strides and strategically extend same to other vital sectors of the state’s economy to improve the wellbeing of the citizens and residents of the state.

They particularly charged Governor Oborevwori to maximize the opportunities in the agriculture sector to better the lives of the people.

They called for an increase in budgetary allocations to agriculture and foster collaborative effort to improve productivity in the sector and scale up food production to tackle rising costs of food; revamp the agro industrial sector of the state to create jobs for the teeming unemployed youths in the state, and massively address worsening poverty and declining standard of living.

The leadership of CRCEI therefore called on Governor Oborevwori to tackle troubling insecurity situation in the state, especially recurring herders attacks on farmers and destruction of farms, including acts of kidnapping and banditry.

They also called on governor Sheriff Oborevwori to strengthen the mechanisms for building sustainable peace in the state to ensure peaceful coexistence among the ethnic groups in the state.

They charged the governor to harness the opportunities inherent in the state’s multi-ethnic makeup to grow the state and make it the envy of other states of the federation.

The leadership of CRCEI called on the government of Delta State to promote social justice and rule of law to the letter, saying, “They are the fulcrum upon which democracy is practiced.”

DELTA AT 34:  Ukodhiko Felicitates Oborevwori, Calls for Support for MORE Agenda

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, has congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State on the occasion of the state’s 34th anniversary.

In a congratulatory message, Hon. Ukodhiko reflected on the state’s journey since its creation, noting the collective sacrifices and vision that have shaped Delta into what it is today. He paid tribute to the state’s founding fathers, past and present leaders, and citizens whose contributions have driven its growth and development.

“I would like to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of our state’s creator, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, as well as past and present leaders and citizens who have contributed to the state’s development over the years. Our dedication and perseverance have paid off, and we are reaping the benefits today through the MORE Agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,” Ukodhiko stated.

The lawmaker expressed pride in being part of the journey and reaffirmed his commitment to working for the progress and prosperity of Delta State. He commended Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, describing the MORE Agenda as a transformative vision that has already begun to impact lives across the state.

Ukodhiko called on all Deltans to rally behind the governor’s agenda, stressing that collective support is vital to consolidate gains and overcome challenges. He urged citizens to recommit themselves to building a stronger, more prosperous Delta where peace, unity, and shared progress thrive.

“As we celebrate 34 years of statehood, let us strengthen our resolve to build an even brighter future. Together, greatness can be achieved,” he said.

Hon. Ukodhiko wished the state a happy anniversary and prayed for continued peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in the years ahead.

DELTA AT 34: Odhokpa Hails Sheriff, Celebrate Deltans, Demands More From Isoko Leaders

By Isaiah Ojo

As Delta State marks it’s 34th year since creation, the foremost leader of the Isoko Front Coalition (IFC), Comr. Israel Odhokpa Izomor has hailed the incumbent governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori

In an interview with the Isoko Nation Newspaper today, Comr. Israel described Oborevwori’s 2 years in office as exceptional, commending the Governor for the rapid development the state has witnessed in a shortwhile under his watch, ranging from infrastructural development, healthcare advancement to educational upgrade.

“Delta at 34 is truly experiencing a refreshing wave of transformation under Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. His MORE AGENDA is not just a slogan but a reality that is redefining governance and development across the state. From infrastructural renewal, youth empowerment, improved healthcare and education, to his inclusive style of leadership, the governor has shown that Delta’s best days are here.”

Odhokpa lauds Sheriff’s commitment, remarking that his charismatic leadership style is worthy of emulation by every public servant.

“Sheriff’s humility, accessibility, and commitment to the people stand him out as a true servant-leader. We can all feel the fresh air of progress across the state and environs. Indeed, Delta is on the path of MORE meaningful development, opportunities for all , realistic reforms, and enhanced peace and security.”

Furthermore, Odhokpa also  charged every political office holder in Isoko to improve their performance, utilizing the opportunity given to them to serve and prioritize the core purpose why they where elected, citing areas where more is required of them.

“With utmost respect, I wish to address our esteemed leaders representing Isoko nation at various levels of government. It is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the glaring reality that political representation in Isoko land has fallen short of the expectations and needs of our people. The level of infrastructural neglect, particularly in access to electricity is deeply worrisome.

“In Isoko North, communities such as Ofagbe, Ovrode, Okpe-Isoko, and Aradhe have endured for many years without electricity. Likewise, in Isoko South, the communities of Aviara, Araya, and Igbide continue to suffer in darkness, deprived of  basic amenities that should be guaranteed in the 21st century.

“This persistent lack of development is not just disappointing, it is unacceptable. It is a reflection of governance that prioritizes rhetoric over results. The time has come for our leaders to rise above personal ambition and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people they were elected to serve.

“Development is not measured by promises made during campaign seasons but by the tangible impact of projects that improve lives. Isoko people are hardworking, resilient, and deserving of better.
“We call on our political office holders to re-evaluate their priorities and deliver visible, lasting changes. History will not forget those who stood with the people when it mattered most. The time to act is now.”

While celebrating with Deltans, he urge them to support the governor’s MORE AGENDA policy irrespective of party affiliation, stating that it would be a boost for more growth and development in the state.

“My message to Deltans as we celebrate is simple, let’s be proud of how far we have come and stay hopeful for what lies ahead. We are seeing roads, schools, hospitals and empowerment programmes springing up across the state. The unity, peace and progress we experience today is proof that Delta is moving higher.

“My prayer is that as we celebrate 34 years, Deltans will continue to support this great transformation so we can achieve even MORE together. Delta is rising, and the future is brighter.”

Ukodhiko Flags Off Empowerment Programme for 100 Isoko Agripreneurs

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has launched an agripreneur empowerment programme targeted at boosting agricultural productivity and supporting local enterprises in his constituency.

The initiative, which kicked off at the NULGE Hall, Isoko North LGA Secretariat, Ozoro, is designed to empower 100 constituents engaged in fishery and piggery. Ukodhiko, who serves as Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Science and Technology, was represented at the flag-off ceremony by Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Elder Godwin Ogorugba.

He explained that the programme aims to equip agripreneurs with resources, skills, and financial support to expand their businesses and improve livelihoods.

According to him, about 50 fish farmers will each receive 1,500 juvenile fish, six bags of fish feed, and ₦150,000 cash support, while 40 pig farmers will benefit from a ₦500,000 grant each to scale their farms and boost productivity.

  • He stressed that the programme goes beyond material distribution, describing it as a foundation for long-term empowerment that will create a new generation of Isoko agripreneurs capable of driving innovation, generating employment, and contributing to the constituency’s economic growth.

    “This is not just another initiative,” Ukodhiko said. “It reflects my belief in the immense potential of our people and my conviction that agriculture remains a bedrock for sustainable growth, food security, and prosperity. We are not just teaching our people how to earn today but equipping them to build wealth for tomorrow.”

    The lawmaker also acknowledged the support of partners – the Federal Co-operative College, Orji River, and Kinging Logistics and Automobiles Ltd, whose collaboration, he said, enriched the programme and enhanced opportunities for beneficiaries.

    Participants will also undergo capacity building in fish farming, piggery management, and agribusiness operations to ensure profitability and sustainability. The three-day programme will run until later this week.

    Dignitaries at the event included Barr. Vote Umukoro, Secretary of Isoko North Local Government Council; Chief Matthew Amudede, Vice Chairman of Isoko North APC, Prince Uloho Ofiobor; Prince Denis Kola Obrogo; Chief Oke Abughe; Pastor Sunday Elueni; Amb. Sunday Omaduvie; Engr. Joseph Uyeri; Hon. Jerry Obi; Mrs. Joy Egbo; Hon. Joan Omuyeh; and Amb. Oreva Efenudu.

Oborevwori Commiserates with APC National Chairman Over Mother’s Demise

By Michael Ilaya 

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, commiserated with the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, over the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.
Oborevwori, who led a delegation to Yilwatda’s residence in Abuja, described her development as a “mixed feeling,” noting that while Nigerians recently celebrated the APC Chairman’s election, the joy was soon overshadowed by the loss of his beloved mother.
The Governor, who was accompanied by members of the National Assembly from Delta State including Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Hon. Francis Waive, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, and Hon. Ngozi Okolie as well as his Senior Political Adviser, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, noted that the late matriarch lived a fulfilled life, raising a family that has produced a professor, a minister, and now the National Chairman of the ruling party.
He stressed that her legacy of discipline, faith, and service would remain a source of pride to the family and the wider community.
“We cannot question God. The Bible says there is a time to be born and a time to die. Mama has lived a very good life, and she has raised her family very well. Our prayers and thoughts are with our National Chairman and his family,” Oborevwori said.

Ozoro Ultra Modern Market Set for Commissioning

By Emmanuel Ekebe/ Michael Ilaya

The Ozoro ultra modern market which has been under construction is now read for commissioning by the state governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori once a date is fixed.

This was disclosed to newsmen on fact finding tour of the project site on Tuesday this week by the project manager, Mr. Enoch Ugheghe.

He told the reporters that the project is 95% completed and that what is ongoing is cleanup, repainting of the stalls and walls, installation of the security lights as well as finishing touches to landscaping.
Accompanied by the Project Engineer, Engr. Monday Okpomo, the Manager explained that within the next couple of days, the finishing touches will be rounded off awaiting commissioning by his Excellency.
He also hinted that the market has 31 lockup shops , 192 open stalls and four offices for the market master and others. Other facilities in the market built on a 100 x 150 meters space include four fire points, three gates with gate houses fitted with conveniences and 16 toilets at both wings of the facility.

There are also a large interlocked parking lot as well as green areas and walkways within the market complex.

The project manager also disclosed that the contracting firm, Awhotu Nigeria Ventures had done the decking of all the lockup shops, installed Solar security lights and planted ornamental trees to enhance the aesthetics of the entire complex though these items were not included in the projects Bill of Quantity.

As at the time of filing this report, all attempts to reach the President General of Ozoro Kingdom, Odio Asiafa Beckley and the Ozoro women leader was not successful.

However, a close source to the Ozoro leadership told our reporters that the Community is not only eagerly awaiting the commissioning of the market but also very hopeful that the Governor will simultaneously approve the award of the second and third phases of the market to make full the joy of the people.

NUIS SDU Chapter  Confers Award of Honour on IFC

By Isaiah Ojo

The National Union of Isoko Students (NUIS), Southern Delta University, Ozoro Chapter, last Monday conferred an award of honour on the Isoko Front Coalition (IFC)

The NUIS leadership under it’s President, Comrade Okposo God’stime Odafe, presented the award to IFC during a brief meeting between the leadership of both association in Ozoro, for their unwavering commitment towards sustainability and development of the union

The NUIS president described IFC as a body of goal-driven, supportive and like-minded individuals who are concerned about the growth of other indigeneous associations.

According to Okposo, the IFC Director General, Comrade Israel Odhokpa Izomor and the entire IFC, have been a pillar of support financially and otherwise, citing instances of the recent monetary backing during the union’s cultural party.

“Since the formation of our association in SDU, Comr. Izomor and IFC in general, have always been there for us in times of need. They have not ceased to stretch out helping hands in all areas whenever we cry out.

“Most recently, during our cultural day party, we got a support of N200,000.00 from them. It is on this note and many more, we have decided to appreciate their benevolence with this award of honour”

The awardee, through it’s Co-ordinator, Comr. Oboh Centus Oghenerabome, expresses satisfaction in NUIS’ recognition of IFC’s impact, stating that this is a motivation for the body (IFC) to do more within it’s capacity.

“To be honest, we didn’t expect to receive this valuable award from NUIS. Our supports to NUIS is borne out of genuine willingness to support our people (Isoko people) however possible and not to earn public glory or for any hidden motive.

“In fact, I must say we are overwhelmed by this kind gesture from NUIS and we say a very big thank you to them for honouring us with this award”

Cry for Justice Tests Legitimacy of Nigeria Democracy, as Okuama Detainees Record One Year in Military Detention Facility in Without Trial

By Kelvin Ohoror

The legitimacy of the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu led Nigeria’s democratic government is seriously being put to test as indigenes of Okuama community, Ewu- Urhobo Kingdom, Ughelli South local government area of Delta State painfully lament continuous detention of their leaders by the Nigerian Army without trial.

The indigenes of Okuama noted with concern that six leaders of their community, namely Prof Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mr James Oghoroko, Dennis Okugbaye, Dennis Amalaka and Mrs Mabel Owhemu, who were arrested by military men between August 18 & 19, 2024, have been in military custody for a year now and their rights to fair hearing in a competent court of law have been grossly and steadily violated by the Nigerian Army which also deprives them access to their doctors, lawyers and family members.

Speaking to journalists at a press conference, at the behest of Comrade Edewor Egedegbe, Human Rights Advocate and Chairman BOT at Citizens Right Concern Enhancement Initiative (CRCEI), aka Human Rights Protection Congress, to draw global attention to the plight of the Okuama detainees and compel the President Tinubu led government to protect the detainees’ right to fair hearing, the indigenes of Okuama community noted that the action of the Nigerian Army flagrantly violates the fundamental rights of the detainees, including the dignity of human person as guaranteed in the 1999 constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

They added that the non-release of their leaders by the army makes a mockery of Nigerian democracy.

They frowned at the blatant disregard for rule of law and the Nigerian judicial system by the military authorities, revealing that sustained efforts to commit the military to due legal process in the Okuama imbroglio had been futile.

The indigenes are particularly worried that President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary are looking away while the military works to subvert the rule of law in Nigeria. They noted that the fronting of military investigation in the Okuama incident, in a democracy, conflicts sharply with the country’s criminal justice system.

It would be recalled that one of the detainees, Pa. James Oghorokor had died in military custody in the endless wait for justice, prompting the indigenes to express fear over the state of health of other detainees.

They reiterated the sanctity of the life of every Nigerian as guaranteed by the 1999 constitution and called for a thorough and proper investigation into the killing of the 17 service men along the Forcados River on March 14, 2024 that precipitated the Okuama crisis.

They appealed to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Ede Dafinone, to, as a matter of urgency, ensure the release of the detained Okuama leaders on the ground that there is no prima facie evidence in the possession of the military to validate the detainees’ complicity in the alleged crime.

Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Governor Oborevwori, President Tinubu Administration

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff has reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Governor Oborevwori’s and Tinubu led administration during their meeting at Isoko Development Union Secretariat Oleh, Delta State.

The group used the meeting to review their activities for the upcoming programmes and highlight group’s achievements and future plans.

Speaking during the meeting the Spokesperson of the group Hon. Emakpor Odogu stated that, the convener of the group the Executive Director of Administration and Finance DESOPADEC, Chief Kome Okpobor has been driving this initiative and working tirelessly to empower the people of Isoko nation through various programmes.

He added that the group was informed that more empowerment programmes of skills acquisition will commence in two weeks time for beneficiaries selected in all the 24 wards in Isoko nation.

Hon. Odogu assured that the selection process for the empowerment was carried out transparently with input from stakeholders and leaders in all the 24 wards.

Also speaking during the meeting, the Director General of the group, Chief Frank Ozue, highlighted the developmental programmes of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration and the robust relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He noted that the Delta State government’s move into APC has brought significant gains and that President Tinubu is committed to ensuring the success of Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda.

He stated that “The Okugbe Isoko for Sheriff’ group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid, aligning itself with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s assessment that the economy is making significant progress”.

The Convener, Chief Okpobor through a message assured members of the group of continued support, urging them to remain focused on their objectives.

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