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IFC DG Odhokpa to Give Scholarship, Other Empowerment Opportunities to Isokos.

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Isaiah Ojo

The Director General of the Isoko Front Coalition (IFC), otherwise called the Odhopka’s Foundation, Comr. Israel Odhopka Izomor, has promised skills development, scholarship, educational support schemes and other empowerment initiatives to indegenes of Isoko nation.

The younger brother to the Isoko-born philanthropist and Managing Director of MG Vowgas Group, Godwin Izomor, made this pledge yesterday Sunday, August 17, 2025, during the association’s first ever meeting in his family compound in Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

In his remarks, through the Coordinator of the group, Comr. Centus Oghenerabome Obo, IFC is aimed at uplifting individuals and communities by providing resources, skills and opportunities for growth and self reliance.

He stressed that the empowerment will cut across communities in Isoko North and South on a fair, unbias and free ground for the youths and the aged.

In his words, “Well, the empowerment is not meant for members of IFC alone but it’s open to anyone who hails from Isoko, especially those whom we deem fit to be helped.

“As for the scholarship scheme, for example, we will be looking at students who are eager to further their education but have no financial strength to do so. This is going to be done without favoritism. It should be noted that the empowerment is open to anyone from around isoko”

Comr. Obo noted that the DG, Odhokpa, who was a one-time President of the National Association of Isoko students (Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, now Southern Delta University, Ozoro, 2021/2022 Session), has kick started this initiative already on a smaller scale

“I wish to let you know that this programme has started running for five months now. Our DG has personally been supporting 20 persons who are randomly and fairly selected every month with the sum of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) given to these persons as a support”

He clarified that the sponsorship of this empowerment program is without the backing of the government but a willful act by the foundation as a show of love to the people of Isoko extraction

“The monthly support scheme that had already been ongoing and the forthcoming scholarship, educational support; skills development scheme, is solely sponsored by the Odhopka’s Foundation and not a dime is from the purse of the government. All thanks to our DG, Comr. Israel Odhopka”

He therefore called on everyone who is of Isoko origin to join the association ahead of the official inauguration by December.

“This is a general call to anyone who is from Isoko to cease this opportunity to be a member of this movement as many more opportunities are set to unfold” he said.

The event was well attended with 193 persons from 12 communities.

Highlights of the event include distribution and submission of membership forms, key discussions, refreshment and group photographs

Engr. Ashakah Celebrates Elder Omeni Sobotie at 57

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya 

The Chief Security Officer, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Chairman Maro-kana group, Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro has extended his heartfelt felicitations to our dynamic leader and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta State, Elder Omeni Sobotie on his auspious 57th birthday anniversary celebration today 16th August, 2025.

Engr. Ashakah in his birthday message described Elder Omeni Sobotie as a “visionary leader and father to all whose have contributed immensely to the stability and development of our great state and Nigeria at large”.

He applauded Elder Omeni’s unwavering commitment and sacrifices to the party, APC over the years and his support for the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and His Excellency Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State.

He said ” as the state party chairman, your contributions to the government has made our party more united and Formidable ” he stated.

“On behalf of my lovely family and political support groups, I sincerely wish you happy birthday and pray to God Almighty continues to grant you divine wisdom, and good health to steer our great party to greater heights as you age on”.

INPLM Hails Founder/President, Comr. Ilaya Beckly on Birth Anniversary

By
Isoko Nation News
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The Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) has felicitated with the Managing Director and Chief Executive of Ilaya Global Resources and Founder, and President, Comr. Ilaya Efemena Beckly  on his birth anniversary

In a statement signed and issued by the group Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ogbovoh Nathan Edafe, noted that INPLM’s felicitations with Comr. Ilaya Efemena is not just a date on the calendar, stating “it is the birth anniversary of a man of purpose, a pillar of hope, a Voice of the Youths and a Beacon of Light to the Isoko Nation and beyond.

“Your life, Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly, is a clear testament to selfless leadership, dedication to community progress, and the unrelenting pursuit of unity and development across Isoko land.

“As the founder and president of Isoko-Nation progressive Like-Minds (INPLM), you have not only created a platform that promotes positive thinking and collective action, but you have also inspired a generation of young leaders to believe in themselves, to rise above mediocrity, and to channel their strengths toward building a better Isoko Nation.

“Through your tireless efforts and visionary initiatives, INPLM has grown from an idea into a powerful voice and a respected movement within and outside our dear region.

“Your success as the Managing Director and CEO of Ilaya Global Resources Ltd is a shining example of what hard work, integrity, and leadership excellence can accomplish. You have proven that true greatness lies not only in personal achievements but in the ability to lift others as you climb.

“Presido, your birthday gives us yet another opportunity to salute your remarkable achievements, to honour your resilient spirit, and to thank you for standing firm as a leader with a heart for his people. You have worn the badge of responsibility with grace, and you have led us with wisdom, humility, and courage”.

The group further offered prayers of long life in strength and prosperity, more wins, more wisdom and more Grace to the celebrant saying may this new chapter of your life bring even greater heights, deeper peace, and endless favour”.

“May your dreams continue to unfold with divine speed, and may you remain a guiding light to the Isoko youth, to Delta State, to Nigeria, and to the world at large.

“On behalf of all Executives, Stakeholders, members of INPLM, both at home and in diaspora, we say: Happy Birthday, Our Founder and President”

EMOGRAMS Old Students’ Triennial Conference to Hold Sept. 6

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Ekebe Emmanuel

All is now set for this year’s National Conference of the Emore Grammar School Oleh Old Students Association (OSA) billed to hold on Saturday 6th September, 2025 at the Golden jubilee Hall within the school compound beginning from 9 am.
According to a release signed by Dr. Prosper Ahworegba and Comrade Ekebe, both National Secretary and National Publicity Secretary of OSA respectively, the triennial Conference will kickoff with a State -of- the -Association address by the OSA National President, Prof. Eric Oghonu to be followed by various reports and review of past projects as well as the discussion of the President’s Address.
The Conference tagged “Coming Home to Where it all Began” will also feature the plans for legacy projects which shall be followed by the dissolution of the National Executive Committee and the election of a new one.
Further more, the statement disclosed that the Conference will be rounded off with a Gala Night scheduled to run from 7 to 10 pm at the same venue.
The OSA Conference is a crucial gathering of Old Students from all sets and branches for fellowship, strategic planning, elections and the advancement of EMOGRAMS which was founded 53 years ago.
Already, some notable OSA members have undertaken the sponsorship of selected items towards the successful hosting of the National Conference.

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY: Shun gambling, drug and substance abuse – INPLM President 

By
Isoko Nation News
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The Founder and President of Isoko -Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly has,

as the world marks International Youth Day, charged all Delta youths, especially the Isoko youths to shun Gambling, drug and substance abuse.

He stated that substance misuse is not just a personal struggle, rather it is a major barrier to progress, robbing young people of their potential, productivity, and future.

“We must take conscious steps to prevent substance abuse and embrace the opportunities before us.

“As a people, we must channel our energy into skill acquisition, education, innovation, and partnerships that will uplift our communities”.

The INPLM President in admonition further noted that “the future of Isoko Nation and Delta State depends on our ability to rise above destructive habits and build together in unity, peace, and progress.

“To every Isoko youth: You are the heartbeat of our tomorrow. Say no to drugs and Gambling. Say yes to your dreams. Let us keep rising together

Rep Ukodhiko Hails Isoko Youths on 2025 International Youth Day

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has lauded the creativity, energy, and passion of youths in his constituency, describing them as key drivers of sustainable development.

In a goodwill message to mark International Youth Day 2025, Ukodhiko said the theme of this year’s celebration, which focuses on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is a reminder of the critical role young people play in shaping communities and driving innovation.

He praised Isoko youths for their contributions to localizing the SDGs through entrepreneurship, community engagement, and innovation, noting that their efforts were creating lasting positive impact across the constituency.

“As your representative at the National Assembly, I am proud to acknowledge the crucial role our youths play in achieving the SDGs in our local communities,” Ukodhiko stated.

“Your creativity, energy, and passion are essential in promoting progress, fostering unity, and building a brighter future.”

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that amplify youth voices, create opportunities for growth, and encourage leadership development.

He urged the youths to remain focused, resilient, and united in their pursuit of excellence and community transformation.

“May this celebration inspire us to continue making a difference in our communities,” Ukodhiko said, while wishing all youths in the constituency a happy International Youth Day.

FLOOD THREATS: Isoko South Government Takes Prompt Action

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Isoko South Local Government Council officially launched a high-level committee in Oleh on Monday, tasked with developing a local emergency committee to enhance preparedness and response planning, aiming to effectively mitigate flooding across the local government area.

During the inauguration, Hon. Warri Ovoke Friday, Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, stated that reports from the State National Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the multi-faceted nature of disasters prompted the establishment of the committee.

“It is well-known that the rainy season is imminent and Isoko South remains susceptible to flooding due to its geographical proximity to the River Niger, with tributaries connecting to these rivers.

“To prevent unforeseen disruptions, it is essential that requisite measures be implemented to mitigate substantial losses.

“For us as a proactive government, the creation of a Local Emergency Management Agency (LEMA) becomes necessary, as it is operated at the federal and state levels,” he added.

The agency will provide rapid response to natural disasters in Isoko South, collaborating with the state SEMA to address any of such incidents.

As an agency, it is responsible for issuing timely alerts to communities susceptible to flooding via media channels, identifying flash flood-prone areas and neighborhoods adjacent to overflowing rivers.

The appointees comprise Hon. Zino Osuofa, Chairman; Dr. Ighomore Hope; Mr. Nwokolo Emmanuel; Mrs. Alex Omuh Eloho; Victor Amere; and Mrs. Evroro Emuobo, alongside Francis Othameta, Akpodhoma Michael, and Anthony Egodi as Secretary, in addition to Ighokido Saturday, DSP Ewende, Rev. Ferguson Idike, and Patrick Obegba.

15 New ‘Edio/Elders’ Inducted as Enhwe Community Celebrates ‘Ogwere’ Festival

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Fifteen male adults have been inducted into the Edio/Elders Council in ‘Ogwere’ festival held in Enhwe community, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Ogwere festival is an aged long cultural heritage and tradition of the community where adults migrate to become ‘Elders and Edios’ after a community service of 10 years by the inductees.

Enhwe Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, migrated from Ute in Benin,(now Edo State) in the 12th Century.

Its founder, Oviota Oriro, son of the fourth to the last Ogiso that reign in Benin Kingdom, in the first Benin dynasty.

The Ogwere festival where adults of same age grade is celebrated every 5 years at the community town hall to witness the historical rich cultural heritage displayed by the people.

The historical event has 15 members who have serve the community meritoriously for 10 years with unblemished records during their years of service.

Speaking during the event, Prince Isaac Ohoror, a celebrant said, “Today we are celebrating the age group induction ceremony into the edio/elders council.

“The Ogwere festival is an age long event and before one can attain that level, you must have passed through a lot of labour for the community and once one is able to get to the level we are, such person would not longer participate in community service.

“With what we are celebrating today, we will no longer participate with the youths in manual labour and otherwise but if you did not, no matter your age, you can be the oldest man in the community, you will be regarded as a youth because of your non partaking in the Ogwere festival.

“The event is very significant because it serves as one of the festivals of the community and it is not fetish as some may think it to be.

Elder Michael Akpakpa, said, “what we are doing today is to be inducted into Ogwere as elders and before you become an elder, you must work for the community for ten years.

“Before one is selected to be inducted into Edio/Elders Council you must not be woman snatcher, a thief or be linked with anything incriminating and if in the process one is found wanting, he will be disqualified. So the Ogwere festival is meant for men if impeccable characters.”

He also pointed out that, “The ancient Ogwere festival is what our forefathers has been celebrating from time immemorial and it has nothing fetish in it”

OPINION: Why 2027 Elections Should Be About Development, Not Division in Isoko Nation

By
Isoko Nation News
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As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the political atmosphere across Nigeria is beginning to warm up, and Isoko Nation is no exception. Soon, campaign banners will flood our streets, political rallies will fill our arenas, and promises will echo from every corner. But if we, as a people, are to truly move forward, 2027 must be different.

We cannot afford another election season driven by tribal sentiments, political grudges, and divisive rhetoric. Instead, we must embrace a new standard, one where the focus is on development, not division.

The True Cost of Political Division

For too long, politics in Isoko Nation has been treated as a contest between personalities and factions rather than a platform for solving our real problems.
This culture has cost us dearly:

• Abandoned projects because one leader refused to complete what another started.

• Missed investment opportunities due to instability and infighting.

• Poor representation because we choose loyalty to individuals over competence and vision.

Division benefits only a handful of political actors, but it robs the majority of citizens of progress.

Development Should Be the Campaign Agenda

When we say elections should be about development, we mean that every political debate, manifesto, and campaign promise should answer one fundamental question:

•How will this improve the lives of Isoko people?

This means:

1. Roads and Infrastructure –  Leaders must present clear plans for connecting our communities to markets, hospitals, and schools.
2. Education and Skills We need policies that prepare our youth for the modern economy.
3. Healthcare Access Campaigns should explain how candidates will bring quality health services closer to the people.
4. Economic Opportunities From agriculture to entrepreneurship, politicians must show how they will help our people create wealth.

The Role of Civil Pressure Groups

Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM) exists to keep leaders accountable to these goals.

INPLM under my watch is committed to:

• Educating voters to choose candidates based on plans, not propaganda.

• Engaging political aspirants to make development the centerpiece of their campaigns.

• Monitoring promises made during campaigns to ensure they translate into action after elections.

We are non-partisan, but we are not neutral when it comes to progress. We will stand firmly with any leader regardless of political party who puts Isoko Nation first.

Unity is the Foundation of Progress

We must reject the dangerous idea that our political opponents are our enemies. In reality, we are all sons and daughters of Isoko Nation with a shared destiny.

If we allow elections to divide us, we weaken our ability to negotiate for development at the state and federal levels. But if we stand united around our needs, no government can ignore us.

Our Call to Action for 2027

To every voter:
Ask the hard questions. Demand specifics from candidates. Don’t settle for empty slogans.

To every politician:
Earn our trust through vision, not manipulation. Build bridges, not walls.
To every community leader, Promote peace during campaigns. Remember that elections will end, but we will still live together as one people.

The 2027 elections offer us a chance to reset the political culture of Isoko Nation. Let us choose leaders who measure success not by the number of political opponents they defeat, but by the number of lives they improve.

If we make development our campaign agenda and unity our guiding principle, then 2027 will not just be another election year, it will be the beginning of a new era for Isoko Nation.

INPLM — Rising Together

Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly
Founder/President
Isoko-nation progressive Like-Minds (INPLM).
Email: isokonationprogressivelikemind@gmail.com

INPLM Decries Hon. Bernard Odio’s Isoko North DTHA Representative Ineptitude

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Michael Ilaya

The Founder and President of Isoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM), Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly, has decried the poor representation and consistent failure of Hon. Bernard Odio, the Majority Whip representing Isoko North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly for lack of visible constituency projects.

In a statement released by the socio-political organization leadership in their group WhatsApp platform, INPLM President decried what he described as the consistent failure of Hon. Odio Bernard to perform his constitutional and representative duties to the good people of Isoko North.

According to the statement, the group lamented that despite being in office, Hon. Odio has not commissioned or initiated a single tangible constituency project since his assumption of office.

The President of INPLM stressed further that elected leaders must remain accountable to the people who gave them the mandate to represent their interests, adding that “Leadership is not a title to be worn for prestige; it is a call to serve. Our people in Isoko North deserve representation that translates into meaningful development and visible impact on their daily lives.”

The statement further stated that “INPLM which is widely recognized for championing unity, progress, and good governance in Isoko land, emphasized that Hon. Odio Bernard has not lived up to expectations. The group noted that constituency projects are not privileges but rights of the people, and every lawmaker must prioritize them as part of their legislative responsibilities.

“It is particularly disheartening, that while other constituencies in Delta State can boast of various developmental projects initiated by their representatives, the people of Isoko North have nothing concrete to show under the representation of Hon. Odio Bernard.

“Roads remain untarred, schools are in dilapidated states, and there are no records of youth empowerment, health interventions, or community-based development programs initiated by the Honourable member.

“This silence and inaction in the face of our people’s suffering is unacceptable,”
Comrade Beckly said. “Our people are not asking for luxury; they are asking for the basics, good roads, clean water, support for schools, and empowerment programs for the youths. If Hon. Bernard cannot point to a single project he has done for his constituency, then we have every reason to question his commitment to his oath of office.”

The INPLM group therefore strongly urges Hon. Odio Bernard to retrace his steps and take urgent and deliberate action to fulfill his mandate, stressing that “there is still time to turn things around, but that will require genuine effort, humility, and a willingness to engage with constituents.
“Leadership comes with responsibility,”

Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly added. “We call on Hon. Bernard to go back to the drawing board, listen to his people, and begin to implement projects that reflect their pressing needs.

“The time for excuses is over. Our people are watching, and history will judge all of us by the legacies we leave behind”.

The INPLM’s statement also emphasized  that “the message is clear: the people of Isoko North will no longer tolerate complacency or neglect. This call is both a warning and a wake-up call, not just to Hon. Odio Bernard, but to all public office holders who may have forgotten the purpose of their election, the statement added.

“As 2027 draws closer, the people are becoming more politically aware, and groups like INPLM are committed to ensuring that every leader is held accountable. The days of silent suffering and blind loyalty are over. The people now demand results, transparency, and leadership that delivers”.

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