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Rep. Ukodhiko Mourns Late Elder-Statesman, Gen. Paul Omu

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has expressed sadness over the demise of former military Governor of defunct Southeastern State, Maj-Gen. Paul Omu. who passed on at the age of 84.

In a statement on Thursday, the House of Representatives member eulogized the one-time Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies for his patriotic zeal and visionary acumen, describing him as “a soldier’s soldiers“

According to the Federal legislator, “our leader, Gen. Omu, stouthearted, was a paragon of Isoko intelligence, foresight and industry. Incredibly persevering and brave, he was commissioned on July 25, 1963, and through hardwork rose to the pinnacle of the nation’s military profession.

“Displaying a highly commendable military ability and astuteness, the late Gen. Paul Omu diligently served Isoko, Delta State and our country with all his strength, intelligence and zeal and was a foremost elder-statesman who counsels were valued and useful

“As a committed federalist and nationalist, he was Commandant, Command and Staff College, Jaji (1985-1988), and Member of the Armed Force Ruling Council (AFRC).

“As a visionary, he was associated with footprints among which were the Margaret Ekpo International Airport and the University of Calabar that were built and established during when he was a Military Governor of the Southeastern State”

“It was the late Gen. Omu who headed the AFRC’s sub-commmittee that gave the recommendations that saw to the establishment of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) in 1993.

“The brilliant General was appointed as a member of the 2020 Delta State Vision Committee, and he was also a member of the 2014 National Conference at Abuja”

“Being a patriot, the love to ensure the unity and advancement of the Isoko ethnic nationality saw him becoming the President-General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU)”

Hon. Ukodhiko said: On behalf of the leaders and people of Isoko Federal Constituency, we mourn the demise of our highly esteemed father, leader and one of Nigeria’s finest military officers, Chief (Maj-Gen.) Paul Ufuoma Omu, (OFR), the Othuke of Isokoland.

“Our sincere condolences to and prayers of comfort for our mother, Sen. Stella Omu and the entire Omu family of Igbide Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government, praying for peaceful repose of the late military officer.” Hon. Ukodhiko prayed.

Delta PDP’s move to APC driven by state’s political interest – Rep. Ukodhiko

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has described the recent mass defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State as a bold and strategic step aimed at safeguarding the state’s political future.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Lunch Time Politics, Ukodhiko said the decision to join the APC was made after careful consideration and in the best interest of the state.

According to the lawmaker, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s move demonstrates leadership and a commitment to the collective interests of Deltans, rather than personal gain.

“Looking at the broader picture, the Governor is doing very well, as many have acknowledged. However, to secure the political future of the state, he had to take a decisive move that would carry everyone along,” Ukodhiko stated.

He noted that many political analysts have evaluated the national political climate and its implications for the PDP, observing that the party currently lacks a viable structure at the federal level.

“If I ask you today who the National Secretary of the PDP is, you probably wouldn’t know. That says a lot about the party’s current state,” he added. “Why would anyone want to remain in a party that has no clear future?”

Responding to questions about former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s alleged issues with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ukodhiko dismissed any connection between the defection and the former governor.

“The decision by the entire Delta State PDP to move to the APC is solely about securing the future of every Deltan, myself included,” he emphasized.

“As a representative of the Isoko Federal Constituency, we were uncertain about our political direction until this move was made.”

He explained that the governor responded to widespread concerns among stakeholders who repeatedly questioned the political future of the state.

“We needed to be in a place that offered stability and a better outlook for the state’s development. That’s why we chose the APC. It’s about the future, not about any individual,” Ukodhiko said.

He also pointed out that the state has been in opposition for the past ten years, a situation that he believes is no longer sustainable.

“We can’t continue to remain in the opposition, especially when the President has shown genuine love to Delta State. Let’s not forget that the First Lady is also from Delta. It would be unwise to stay disconnected from the center.”

Ukodhiko stressed the importance of being part of the ruling party to gain better access to federal support and influence national policies that affect the state.

“We can’t continue to rely solely on FAAC allocations. For effective policy implementation and development, we need the support of the federal government,” he said.

He further highlighted projects that the state government intends to undertake in collaboration with the federal government, including improvements in port infrastructure, electricity, and other critical sectors.

“Now that we are aligned with the federal government, we are in a better position to attract these developments and ensure meaningful progress for Delta State,” Ukodhiko stated.

Ogorugba Launches Digital Youth Skill Empowerment Programme in Isoko North

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, officially launched the Digital Youth Skill Empowerment Programme today, April 29, 2025, to an enthusiastic gathering of participants.

Held at the NULGE Hall within the Isoko North Council Secretariat, the Programme attracted youths from all 13 wards of the local government.

With the theme “Building Skills, Unlocking Opportunities,” the initiative aims to provide practical training in key digital areas such as UI/UX Design, Project Management and Web Development.

In his remarks, Hon. Ogorugba urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity, emphasizing that global tech icons like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk started their journeys with a vision and commitment to learning.

“This program was initiated by the Local Government to empower our youths with vital digital skills because ICT is the future,” he said.

“We are in the age of Artificial Intelligence, and our people must not be left behind. By building the capacity of our young ones, we are ensuring they can compete globally.”

He encouraged attendees to stay committed throughout the training, noting that the acquired skills could soon serve as a means of livelihood.

Participants expressed gratitude to the Council Chairman for the initiative and pledged to remain dedicated.

Upon completion, trainees will receive starter packages to support their ventures in the digital space.

The Chairman was joined at the event by Chief Barr. Evelyn Aluta (Vice Chairman), Sir Vote Umukoro (Secretary to the Council), Mrs. Irene Onwodi (Head of Personnel Management), and HRM Queen Fejiro Elo Ogbogbo (Treasurer),

Others are Engr. Thomas Akpoedafe (Supervisor for Agriculture and Community Development), Amb. Egwu Oghenero Alakpodia (Supervisor for Works), Comr. Alebe Joshua (Supervisor for Environment), Mr. Oguye Isaiah (Supervisor for Works), and Heads of various departments amoniother dignitaries.

Oborevwori’s defection to APC, unfurls more progressive governance in Delta – Rep Ukodhiko

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has stated that Gov. Sherrif Oborevwori’s defection to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) would bring more progressive governance in the State.

The National Assembly member made the declaration on Monday at the official defection of the Governor, his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, and immediate past Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, from the People’s Democratic Party to the APC.

The House of Representatives member said, “today’s official defection by the Governor at the Cenotaph, Asaba marks a new era of sustainable growth and development of Delta State.

“It put in bold relief the collective decision of the State Leadership last week’s Wednesday to collapse all its structures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress.

“Already, members of the National Assembly, past and present political office-holders, stakeholders and their followers have also defected, meaning the collapsing of our political structures to the APC.

“I must say, the seamless transitioning from the PDP to the APC will strengthen our democracy and ensure a brighter and more equitable future for all Deltans.

“Our leader and Governor, Rt. Hon. Oborevwori is a visionary leader, whose laudable achievements in the last two years exemplified that he is a progressive through and through, and with the alignment, there is renewed hope of our people for more massive development and empowerment of our people.

“Deltans should expect more progressive governance under the APC-led administration of Governor Oborevwori that is totally committed to the welfare and security of the people of the State.“ Hon. Ukodhiko assured.

Otibio Ward PDP Collapses into APC

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otibio Ward 13 Chapter in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, on Sunday, collapsed its structure into the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC).

The defection of the Ward to the APC was at a stakeholders meeting held at the Erawha-Owhe countryhome of Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, the Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

Present at the meeting were the Chairman, Isoko North Council, Eld. Godwin Ogorugba, party chieftains, Engr. Peter Odunwa, Engr. Festus Akponovo, Ward councilor, Hon. Ajiroghene Oreh, PDP Ward Chairman, Chief Peter Onaibre, Senior Special Assistants to the State Governor, Hon. Felix Ogona.

Others were Senior Assistants to the Governor, Engr. Kingsley Egwerome, and Ms Pat Ikrumale, former ward councilor, Hon. Goodluck Obiaro including past and present Ward party executives and faithfuls who decamped to the APC.

Addressing the party leaders and faithfuls, Hon. Ukodhiko stated, “We called this meeting to formally inform you all of the direction we are taking politically, which is the collapsing of the PDP structures in the State into the APC.

“After critical deliberations by the leadership of the PDP in Delta State led by our leader and Governor , Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, it was unanimously agreed we all move down to the APC for the betterment of the State.

Hon. Ukodhiko further stated, “the decision of the State leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party under Governor Sherrif Oborevwori was to save Delta State, its political future and the massive development of the State”.

The House of Representatives member called for continued support for the Governor who he said, has done a lot in Isoko, assuring of the State Government’s interventions in Otibio Ward.

Hon. Ukodhiko urged the party leaders and faithfuls to be united, go out to educate the people in units on the defection of the State to the APC, and harmoniously worked for the victory of the party in the Ward by turning out large votes.

In his remark, Chairman, Isoko North Local Government Area Council, Eld. Ogorugba, enjoined the people to be strong and promote the APC to the people in the ward and at the seven units to be fully aware.

The Area Council boss stressing on the need of educating the grassroot people, sued for peace among the people.

Also speaking, party chieftain, Engr. Odunwa lauded the defection move by the leadership of the PDP in Delta State, assuring, “the APC will be much better than the PDP we are coming from.”

Raphael Okaruefe Movement Felicitate Senator Joel-Onowakpo on His Birthday

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Raphael Okaruefe Movement (ROM) under the leadership of the erstwhile Vice-Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Raphael Egaga Okaruefe has congratulated Senator Joel-Onowakpo representing Delta South Senatorial District on his birthday extolling his life of service and dedication to humanity.

In a statement by the group Publicity Secretary Comrade Kelvin Ohoror, the group described Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content as “a selfless leader, a paragon of hard work who have unflinching support and selfless service to the people of Delta South Senatorial District.”

“On behalf of Raphael Okaruefe Movement we congratulate the senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas on his birthday.

The group also state that, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas has distinguished himself since his election to the Senate, and has continued to display the qualities of diligence, resilience and purposefulness in the service to the people of Delta South Senatorial District.”

“He has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Delta South Senatorial District and has continued to stand out as a strong voice for our people.”

He has demonstrated the right temperament, tenacity and drive in representing the people of Delta South Senatorial District and we are very proud of him.

The group prayed that “God will protect Senator Joel-Onowakpo the strength and vitality to continue serving; the same passion and commitment that have defined his illustrious career as he continues his work in the Red Chamber positively representing our Senatorial District”.

FRED OGHENESIVBE: From APC’S Noisiest Critic to It’s Most Desperate Praise-Singer: What a Shame – Truthsayer 

By
Isoko Nation News
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For years, Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, the so, called Bureau Chief and Director General of the Delta State Bureau for Communications and Orientation, was one of the loudest and most reckless attackers of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He never missed an opportunity to insult, discredit, and mock the APC at every turn. His public statements, press releases, and TV appearances were littered with venom against the same party he is now shamelessly celebrating. Today, because Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has defected, Oghenesivbe has thrown every ounce of integrity to the wind, becoming the very thing he spent years ridiculing. What an absolute disgrace.

This is the height of political hypocrisy and shamelessness. A man who built his public profile on spewing bile against the APC is now leading praise-singing campaigns, desperately trying to rewrite history and insult the intelligence of Deltans. It is sickening that someone who claimed to be a principled communicator would so quickly abandon his so, called values for a seat at the new dinner table. It goes to show that for some politicians, it has never been about ideology, progress, or the people, only about what benefits them personally.

Oghenesivbe’s sudden conversion exposes him as an opportunist of the worst kind. If he was sincere in his years of opposition to the APC, what has changed about the party today? Has the APC suddenly transformed into an angelic institution overnight, or is it simply that the governor’s defection opened new doors for stomach infrastructure? The answer is obvious. His hypocrisy is so barefaced, it would be laughable if it weren’t such an insult to the people of Delta State.

Even more embarrassing is his shameless attempt to dress up this political betrayal as “democracy in action.” Democracy is about principles, consistency, and service to the people, not about politicians jumping ship for personal gain and then turning around to deceive the same citizens they once rallied to oppose. Fred Oghenesivbe has not only betrayed his own words but has also shown contempt for Deltans who believed his propaganda against the APC in years past.

Let it be known that no amount of propaganda from Oghenesivbe and his fellow political turncoats can cleanse the shame of their hypocrisy. The people of Delta State have not forgotten the insults he hurled at APC leaders, nor the vile campaigns he waged against the party. History will remember him as a man who traded his dignity for a plate of political porridge, a fair weather operative whose loyalty lies only where his personal interests are secured.

In the end, politicians like Oghenesivbe are the reason many Nigerians have lost faith in public office holders. They preach one thing today and do the exact opposite tomorrow. No amount of hollow rhetoric on TV or hastily written press statements can erase his record of inconsistency and self serving politics. Delta deserves better than this kind of shameless opportunism.

GALE OF DEFECTIONS: Isoko North PDP Joins APC, Cites National Crisis

By
Isoko Nation News
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In a dramatic turn of events that signal a major political realignment in Delta State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Isoko North Local Government Area has officially collapsed its structure into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing unresolved crises at the national level of the PDP.

The decision was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting held Friday at the Erawha-Owhe country home of Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, the member representing the Isoko Federal Constituency.

The motion for defection was moved by former Isoko North Council Chairman, Hon. Chief Apar Itesah, and seconded by Hon. Jude Ogbimi, a former member of the State House of Assembly and was subsequently put to a voice vote and overwhelmingly approved.

Addressing party leaders and supporters at the meeting, Hon. Bernard Odior, the member representing Isoko North State Constituency, described the defection as a necessary step, prompted by the PDP’s lingering national leadership crisis.

“We currently have three individuals claiming the position of National Secretary in the PDP.

“That level of disorganization has made it impossible for the party to function effectively. Those fueling the crisis do not have any real stake in the party’s success and we cannot afford to repeat the Zamfara scenario here in Delta.” Odior stated.

The lawmaker further urged all former PDP members in the area to proceed to their wards and register officially with the APC, emphasizing the need to consolidate their presence within the ruling party.

In his remarks, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko noted that while Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other stakeholders of the party made significant efforts to save the PDP at the national level, those efforts were ultimately futile.

He lamented the lack of support for opposition lawmakers in the National Assembly, describing their experience as being “like orphans.”

“We took this decision in the best interest of our people and to protect the political future of Delta State,”

“We must now work with the APC to ensure we remain at the center of national politics.”

Speaking further, Ukodhiko also commended Governor Oborevwori for his leadership, stating that the people of Delta State made the right choice in electing him.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, highlighted the strategic advantage of aligning with the ruling party.

“Delta State has been in the opposition for the last ten years, and we have been missing out on developmental opportunities.

“This move is a chance to bring meaningful projects to the Isoko nation.” he said.

Chairman of the Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba, urged stakeholders to educate members on the APC’s identity and prepare for a grand rally scheduled for Monday in Asaba, where Governor Oborevwori is expected to be officially welcomed into the APC.

2025 UTME EXAM: Hon. Ashakah Offers Transportation  to Isoko Jambites

By
Isoko Nation News
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Hon. Engr. Ashakah Maro Orobosa, Managing Director of Maro-Kana Enterprises and Founder of Ashakah Orobosa Educational Foundation has generously offered transportation stipends to Isoko North Students sitting for the 2025 University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The initiative aimed at alleviating the financial burden of transportation costs to ensure students are focused on their examinations

Presenting the financial assistance to the students, Comr. Umuakpo Ovie, Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Educational Monitoring, who represented Hon. Engr. Ashaka Orobosa said, “Considering the high cost of transportation, some students may likely find it difficult to transport themselves to their examination centre, hence the financial support from the Ashakah Foundation” he stated.

He also advised the students to be focused and put in their best as they go for the examinations, having been adequately prepared through the Ashakah Orobosa Free Jamb Lesson. He assured them that overall best students would be offered scholarships through the Ashakah Orobosa Educational Foundation.

Recall that Hon. Ashakah Orobosa Educational Foundation undertook WAEC enrollment for students of Isoko North origin

Miss Joy Uzuazomaro, who spoke on behalf of the students, appreciated Hon. Ashakah for his philanthropic gesture and pray God Almighty to continue to bless him and grant him all his heart’s desires.

This gesture demonstrates the Hon. Engr Ashaka’s dedication to promoting education and empowering students in Isoko North Local Government Council and Delta State at large.

JOURNALISTS DON’T ACCESS GOVERNORS THROUGH PROXIES: A Personal Note To Gov Sheriff Oborevwori

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

It is 23 months now since Governor Sheriff Oborevwori took the mantle of leadership as the Governor of oil rich Delta State.

Surprisingly, the photogenic Governor has not deemed it necessary to hold press briefing, even when he knows that such crucial meeting with journalists has become a norm in the governance system of the state.

Without mincing words, routine or quarterly press briefing, as the case may be, is a media event that avails journalists an opportunity to ask the Governor critical questions on burning issues and get undiluted response.

It is also a forum through which journalists appraise the government’s policies and how they are being implemented vis-à-vis their impacts on the people.

No doubts, the Governor’s reluctance to hold press briefing is igniting a cloud of worries across the rank and file of journalist as uneasy calm pervades the media space.

Suffice it to say that it is not an acceptable norm for journalists to access the Governor through proxies.

Acknowledging the noble status of journalists as the fourth estate of the realm, it is unthinkable of any Governor to downplay the role of journalists in fostering a progressive democratic government.

On that note, Governor Oborevwori may not be setting a good precedence by failing to hold press briefing. He should not tread that hideous path.

I recall that Governor Oborevwori has on his team, a retinue of experienced journalists – some of them are serving as competent media aides.

Among them is an accomplished journalist and media guru, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor’s formidable Chief Press Secretary (CPS).

No doubts, these notable personalities have the capacity to advice and guide Governor Oborevwori on how to ride with journalists and get less of their “troubles.”

But since the Governor has unrepentantly stuck to his style – “Keep journalists at arm’s length,” would it be plausible to say that Governor Oborevwori does not heed the wise counsels of his media advisers? Or is it his style to-want-to “pocket” journalists in the state?

On a good note, Governor Oborevwori has continuously enjoyed good relationship with journalists in a platter of gold. Such favour is uncommon, so he should not toy with it!

On May 29, Governor Oborevwori will be two years in office and racing to complete his four years tenure.

As it has become a norm in the Delta State politics, Governor Oborevwori is sure to vie for second term.

That’s quite interesting and a welcome development for us who wish him success.

But he must not forget that routine Press Briefing is a necessary interactive forum between the Governor and journalists. He must not jettison this all-important media event.

I reiterate, Journalists don’t access a Governor through proxies.

I urge Governor Oborevwori to change his style.

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