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Senator Joel-Onowakpo Mourns with Delta APC Chairman Arenyeka Over Mother’s Passing

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, has expressed deep condolences to the Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Solomon Arenyeka, over the passing of his mother, Mrs. Felicia Oritselumewor Arenyeka.

In a condolence message personally signed by the Senator, he described the death of the family matriarch as a profound loss, not only to the Arenyeka family but also to all who were touched by her remarkable life.

Mrs. Felicia Oritselumewor Arenyeka, who passed away on April 24 at the age of 91, was remembered as a virtuous woman whose life was marked by dignity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo noted that her long and fulfilled life was a testament to God’s grace and a legacy worthy of emulation.

He urged Chief Arenyeka and the entire family to take solace in the impactful life she lived and the values she instilled in her children and all who came in contact with her.

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Delta South Senatorial District, I extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the passing of your beloved mother. Though her departure leaves a void, we are comforted by the enduring legacy of a life well spent,” the statement read.

The lawmaker prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and for God to grant the bereaved family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, FCA
Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content

Enighotu Family to Mark One Year Remembrance of Mother, Mrs. Asakido Enighotu

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The family of Ignatius Saturday Enighotu is set to mark one year remembrance of their beloved mother, Mrs.Asakido Enighotu (Nee Akpobasaha), a devoted Catholic who was the most senior woman of Evba Quarter, Enhwe community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, who died at the age of 95 years.

In a statement signed on behalf of the family by Mr. Ignatius Saturday Enighotu states that, “Mama one year remembrance activities is slated for 29th April, 2026 by 12 pm at her residence, Enhwe Comprehensive High School, Road, Enhwe”.

The statement also read that, entertainment of guests/light refreshments follow up immediately at the same venue.

According to the statement, the “Thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Enhwe where prayers will be offered for the children/relations.

The family also utilised the opportunity to appreciate the  dignitaries who stood for them, for their generosity and unflinching support during and after the burial ceremony of their Late Mother in April last year 2025  including Chief Michael Ovie Ogodo, Dr. Matthew Eloho Origbe, Hon. Friday Ovoke Warri, Chairman Isoko South Local Government Council, Surv. Elias Onome Ovesuor, Rev. Dr. Festus Odoko, Chief Daniel Jamagho, Chief Leonard Oriomor, Engr. Samson Usiayo (LNG), Engr. Chief Emmanuel Odu, Dr. Emmanuel Okworigho, President General Enhwe Clan Development Association (ECDA), Chief Ben Okozi, Pastor Freeborn Amuokpoyeri, Dr. Mrs. Eunice Agbara, Lolo Mrs. Eze, Dr. Ralf Uzezi Onowotu, Mr. Kome Egbedi, Mr. Johnbull Usiayo (Canada), and Chief Jonathan Asama.

Others are; Sir Sheriff Idebe, Rev. Father Daniel, Prince Daniel Osha, Pastor Stephen Osha, Chief Mrs. Lucky Ogbogu, Chief Moses Ekoefeme, ECDU-Warri branch, ECDU-Oleh branch, ECDU-Ughelli branch, ECDU-Asaba branch amongst others.

Outgoing SDU VC, Oboreh Lauds Gov. Oborevwori for Development Support

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Marvis-Eterigho Osiobe

The outgoing pioneer Vice Chancellor of the Southern Delta University, (SDU), Ozoro, Professor Jacob Snapps Oboreh has expressed profound gratitude to the university visitor, Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support in advancing the institution during his five-year tenure.

Professor Oboreh shared this sentiment during a media chat yesterday 23, April 2026 in Ozoro, having presided over the final Senate meeting of his administration, ahead of his official hand-over and pullout ceremony scheduled for Monday 4, April, 2026, saying his achievement is majorly anchored on the concept of always working towards non negativity constraints.

Addressing the press immediately after the valedictory senate meeting, the V.C highlighted the seamless growth of the university from it’s establishment in 2021 by the Delta State government, not only to carter for the yearnings of the young ones seeking university education, but also has ensured uninterrupted academic calendars over the past five years against the expectations of critics who never believed in the survival of the three new universities in the state.

He stated that the university which originally started with six faculties and forty five programmes, has grown to 11 faculties with 89 programmes; that in 2023, a campus was established at Orerokpe which started with Faculty of Administration but now accommodates Faculties of Law, Arts and Social Sciences and have been fully accredited by the National University Commission (NUC).

The Vice Chancellor commended Gov. Oborevwori for doing enormous and wonderful job in the Orerokpe campus including the speedy accreditation, infrastructural developments and approval to engage qualified manpower.

Speaking further on his achievements, Prof Oboreh noted that he has been able to instil discipline both on staff and students, ensured that effective teaching and research are carried out, with adequate quality assurance system instituted, and had embarked on serious infrastructural developments, emphasizing that “teaching and research is our focus”

He stated the infrastructural developments to include the construction of five in number of five bedrooms duplexes for the principal officers; construction of a storey building comprising 12 laboratories/workshops and studios for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences; construction of two storey building for the Faculty of Computing complex with 126 offices and two lecture halls and conveniences in each office; construction of 80 rooms with conveniences in each room of hall of residence with buttery, common room, 8 kitchen and reading hall for the female students and construction of 80 rooms with conveniences in each room of hall of residence with buttery , common room, 8 kitchen and reading hall for the male students.

Others, according to the outgoing VC, included construction of 8 nos of laboratory, furnished for the Faculty of Science; construction of a central store; construction of one kilometer perimeter fence of the university, completing the perimeter fencing of the university; purchase of various equipment for Faculty of Environmental Sciences; construction of a multi-purpose Engineering Workshop through a sustainable and focus-driven relationship with a donor agency; purchase of 900 computers to replace obsolete computers in the CBE centre; purchase of a D6 bulldozer to open up the university unused land as well as establishment of University Printing Press.

The outgoing VC also added to his list of developmental strides to include the completion of 1200 seating capacity auditorium abandoned in the defunct Polytechnic since 2009; completion of the abandoned Engineering building of 3 lecture halls and 6 staff offices from NDDC contractor; acquisition of Eco bank building within the campus through court processes for the university use; Purchase of official vehicles for Principal Officers of the university and constant maintenance of the vast land of the university.

He stated that “the university is at its rightful pact, I expect the new VC to do more than what I have done, having implicit trust in his capacity”, noting that part of his challenge during his tenure was funding which he conquered by always prioritizing resource deployment to cover scarce resources.

The outgoing VC, on what the incoming VC should priorotise, stated that the university is a continuous process and that there is always room for improvement, with emphasis that “Assuming I had more years, my focus would have been on staff quarters and hostels for students for the university to attain the status of a community of it’s own in order to address the challenges posed by shylock landlords in town and to also secure the young ones”

He pointedly stated that the numerous successes recorded under his tenure were as a result of the unalloyed support from Gov. Oborevwori who was always listening and responding to the requests of university’s management and enjoined the new Vice Chancellor to maintain the culture.

Present at the media chat were the university’s principal officers including the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Presley Obukoadata, University Liberian, Prof. Ogochukwu Emiri, the Bursar , Dr. Sylvester Okoh, University’s Director of Public Relations, Dr. Florence Chukuebuni and the Deputy Registrar, Mrs. Margaret Amata.

Others were Dr. Jeroh Ejaita, member of the Public Relations team and the Auditor of the university, Dr. Godday Pakepimeme amongst others.

2027: APC Ozoro Ward 3 Adopts Orobosa Ashakah for Isoko North State Assembly

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Ozoro Ward 3, has unanimously adopted Engr. Orobosa Ashakah as its preferred candidate for the Isoko North State Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached following a motion moved by the Leader of the Isoko North Legislative Arm, Hon. Pascal Emeluaha, in what party members described as a strong demonstration of confidence and support for the aspirant.

The motion was seconded by the immediate past Secretary to Isoko North Local Government Council, Pastor Sunny Utuodor, and was subsequently ratified through a voice vote conducted by the APC Ward 3 Chairman, Mr. Godwin Egworefa.

Speaking after the adoption, Mr. Egworefa noted that Engr. Ashakah’s track record is outstanding and has earned him the trust of the ward.

He expressed confidence that Ashakah would provide effective representation if elected.

He commended the aspirant’s selfless service, particularly his women empowerment initiatives and commitment to education through the sponsorship of free WAEC and JAMB registrations for students in Isoko North.

Also speaking, Hon. Joseph Otheremu, former member of the Public Complaints Commission and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, praised Ashakah’s scholarship programme for tertiary and postgraduate students, describing it as a clear demonstration of his dedication to human capital development.

He called on APC leaders, stakeholders, and members across Isoko North to unite in support of Ashakah’s candidacy to ensure victory for the party in the forthcoming elections.

The Director-General of the Ashakah Campaign Council, Engr. Thomas Akpoedafe, stated that Ashakah’s experience, accessibility, and people-oriented programmes would guarantee purposeful and result-driven representation in the Delta State House of Assembly.

He added that his candidacy aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

In his remarks, Engr. Ashakah pledged to deliver effective representation and expressed deep appreciation to the former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and immediate past member representing Isoko North/South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor Okuweh, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the development of Isoko Nation.

He made this known while addressing party faithfuls at the country home of the former lawmaker in Ozoro, noting that Ogor’s years of service have set a high standard for legislative excellence.

He assured that he would draw from the former lawmaker’s experience and counsel to serve the constituency effectively.

Ashakah also thanked the APC leadership and members of Ozoro Ward 3 for their unanimous adoption, assuring them of his commitment to attracting development to Isoko North through strategic legislation and impactful programmes.

He emphasized that his representation would go beyond lawmaking to include aggressive pursuit of infrastructural development, youth and women empowerment, and strategic lobbying for projects.

He further pledged an open-door policy, regular constituency engagement, and accountable leadership.

Ashakah also appealed to party faithful to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the 2027 general elections.

Dignitaries present at the event included Engr. Henry Odhegolor, Comr. Ovie Umuakpor, Hon. Gabriel Efe Alebe, Mr. Bernard Idisi, Chief Amb. Caroline Osikpedo, Chief Sunday Ejemite, Comr. Charles Ogba, Odio Sunday Emoredo, Chief Tesla Etenero, Hon. Emmanuel Adolaji, Barr. Sylvester Imonena, Hon. Oghogho Erhire, Pst. Mrs. Sylvester Ifode, Hon. Mark Ekakitie, Hon. Festus Onwa, Hon. Felix Adaimoni, Hon. Lucky Okeremu, Hon. Sunday Akpomeda, Comr. Moses Ogege, and several other party stakeholders.

IDU Youth Wing Reaffirms Backing for Senator Joel-Onowakpo’s Second Term, Seeks Unity Among Stakeholders

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter

The Isoko Development Union Youth Wing (IDUYW) Worldwide has reaffirmed its full support for the re-election of Joel Onowakpo, aligning with the position already adopted by the parent body.

In a statement issued by its Office of Media and Orientation, the youth wing, under the leadership of Comrade Joel Ifoghale Emeni, said the endorsement reflects a united front and strong confidence in the direction set by the Isoko Development Union (IDU).

The statement signed by Augustine Oghenetejiri, Special Assistant on Media and Orientation to the IDU Youth Wing Worldwide, the group noted that continuity in representation would best serve the long-term interests of the Isoko nation.

It stressed that the decision was carefully considered and anchored on the belief that sustained leadership would help consolidate ongoing legislative efforts and development initiatives.

As part of moves to strengthen internal unity, the IDU Youth disclosed that its 2nd Vice President, Sunday Unuafe, has formally withdrawn earlier remarks that contradicted the endorsement.

He also issued a public apology, a development the group said has resolved internal concerns and restored cohesion within its ranks.

The IDUYW further called on other political stakeholders, including Barrister Jay Ogor and Honorable Malik Ikpokpo, to embrace a collaborative approach in the overall interest of the Isoko people.

It urged them and their supporters to support Senator Onowakpo’s second-term bid, noting that a single tenure is often insufficient for lawmakers to fully implement their legislative agenda.

According to the statement, dialogue and mutual cooperation among political actors would deliver greater benefits for the region than division and rivalry, emphasizing that collective effort remains vital for meaningful development and effective representation.

Reaffirming its commitment to unity, the IDU Youth Wing appealed to all Isoko indigenes to embrace a shared vision and work together toward common goals for the progress of the area.

Jay Ogor Consults Isoko Nation on Senatorial Ambition

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya/Kelvin Ohoror

A philanthropist, business mogul and senatorial hopeful, Barr. Jay Stephen Ogor, today consulted the Isoko Nation ahead of the 2027 general elections; engaging Isoko stakeholders with a promise to ensure dividends of democracy in the senatorial district.

The consultation which was hosted by the umbrella body of the Isoko ethnic nationality, Isoko Development Union, (IDU) took place at the Union’s Secretariat, Oleh, where the aspirant addressed the people drawn from across Isoko clans as part of the declaration of his senatorial ambition.

Speaking at the event, which attracted over 1,000 attendees from across Isoko communities, Ogor emphasized that he has identified inadequate development, and representation, which he desires to fulfill.

According to him, “My inspiration is the desire to sanctify and redefine democracy in the senatorial district which must be achieved throw accessibility, adequate representation and character”

He also stated that he will create opportunities for women to access loans for trading in order for them to stand on their own and to also empower the farmers with all the necessary farming tools and seedlings for better yields.

In addition , Ogor urged the Isoko people to choose wisely on moving forward or retrogress by their choice of representatives; adding that “to seek power, it must be defined”.

He also stated that he will address the challenges confronting the Petroleum Industrial Act (PIA) implementation within 30 to 60 days, if given the mandate.

In his comments at the event, the President General of Isoko Development Union (IDU) Prof Chris Akpoti thanked the aspirant for finding it worthwhile to brief the Isoko nation, and that at the appropriate time, the Union and the traditional rulers with relevant stakeholders will meet to fathom out the best way forward.

The IDU President General, also appreciated the various groups, including traditional rulers, women associations, PGs of various Isoko clans, professional bodies and youth, amongst others across the Isoko nation that attended the event

OPINION: Everyone deserves a chance, but not everyone deserves a second chance in politics – Comr.  Ilaya Efemena Beckly, INPLM President 

By
Isoko Nation News
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In a democratic society, every individual deserves the opportunity to aspire for political office.

It is the beauty of democracy: leadership is not reserved for a privileged few but is open to all citizens willing to serve.

Fresh ideas, new faces, and diverse experiences enrich governance and offer hope for progress.

However, while everyone deserves a first chance, not everyone deserves a second chance, especially after failing to perform their duties responsibly when given the first chance.

Here is why this distinction is important, and why you will likely agree with me:

Leadership is a Privilege, Not a Birthright

Holding a political office is a trust, not an entitlement. It is a sacred duty to serve the people, protect their rights, and advance their well-being.

When leaders fail in their responsibilities, through incompetence, negligence, or corruption, they break that trust.

Leadership positions should not be recycled for those who have already shown they are unable or unwilling to uphold public trust.

Why you will agree:
Imagine hiring a driver who constantly crashes your car, would you hire him again simply because he “wants another chance”?

Leadership demands higher standards because the consequences of failure affect millions.

Accountability is the Cornerstone of Democracy

Democracy thrives on accountability. If leaders know they can fail without consequences, it encourages mediocrity and impunity.

Rewarding failure with second chances sends the wrong message, that performance doesn’t matter.

Instead, we must set a culture where good service is honored, and failure is a signal for change.

Why you will agree:
If politicians realize that failing their people will end their political careers, they will work harder, be more responsible, and respect their offices more deeply.

Citizens Deserve Better

The people deserve leaders who are competent, honest, and dedicated. When we recycle failed politicians, we rob society of fresh energy, new perspectives, and real hope for progress. New aspirants, when given a fair chance, could offer better policies, deeper compassion, and greater effectiveness.

Why you will agree:
We don’t let the same team that keeps losing championships play forever; we bring in new players. In politics, we must do the same, for the future of our children, society and the survival of our democracy.

Second Chances Should Be Earned, Not Assumed

Of course, everyone makes mistakes. But a second chance must be earned through clear signs of remorse, growth, and reformation not simply demanded. A failed leader who takes responsibility, learns, and shows a track record of improvement outside of public office might deserve reconsideration later. But immediate re-election after failure without evidence of change is dangerous and irresponsible.

Why you will agree:
Trust is rebuilt with actions, not just promises. Before granting a second chance, we must see clear proof that lessons have been learned.

One chance for everyone, but second chances only for the deserving.

By insisting on high standards for those who govern us, we protect our democracy, encourage better leadership, and build a society where service, not selfishness, is the goal. Everyone should be welcomed to try, but not everyone should be allowed to fail us twice.

Our future is too important to gamble on proven failures.

 

OPINION: Rising Together in Socio-Political Advancement for Isoko Greatness

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Comr. Ilaya Beckly, INPLM President 

Every great nation was first built on the strength of a dream; a dream carried by someone who believed in change, progress, and the power of the people.

Today, Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro stands out as one of those who believe deeply in that kind of dream; a dream where leadership is not about power or position, but about service, unity, and shared growth.

Politics should never be about “me”,  it should always be about “us”.

The beauty of democracy lies in the ability of ordinary people to make extraordinary change when they stand together with a purpose.

His vision is simple –  to restore hope, rebuild trust, and renew the strength of our communities, starting from the grassroots.

We live in a time when many have lost faith in politicians, and rightly so.

But we must remember, leadership is not about wearing a title, it’s about carrying the people’s burden with sincerity and courage.

It’s about listening more than speaking, giving more than taking, and doing more than promising.

Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro believes in the politics of inclusion, where the youth are not spectators but stakeholders, where women are not sidelined but celebrated, and where elders are not ignored but honored for their wisdom.

Together, we can redefine leadership and make it something beautiful again, something built on transparency, accountability, and compassion.

The journey will not be easy, but every great transformation begins with a few who dare to believe.

Engr. Ashakah may not have all the answers, but he has the heart, the will, and the unwavering belief that together, we can make things better.

Let us rise above tribe, religion, or political difference and build a common front for progress.

Let us create a society where justice is not selective, opportunities are not limited, and leadership is not inherited but earned through integrity and service.

Engr. Ashakah’s dream is not his alone, it’s ours.

It belongs to every young person yearning for a better tomorrow, every mother hoping for a safer community, a better local government Area and a progressive constituency, where every father wishing for fairness, and every child dreaming of a future filled with possibilities will be achieved.

Together, we can turn this dream into a movement.

Together, we can make leadership meaningful again.

Together, we can prove that hope is stronger than fear, and that change begins the moment we all believe.

‎Igelige Consults Isoko APC LGA Executive, Promises  Effective Representation ‎

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror
‎
‎A frontline aspirant of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Isoko South Constituency 1, Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Jubilant Igelige, has consulted Isoko South Local Government Area executive of the All Progressive Congress (APC) at the party secretariat, Oleh, Delta State.
‎
‎Speaking during the consultation, Chief Jubilant Igelige, said, “I have come to you not just as an aspirant, but as a loyal party member who recognizes that the strength of our party lies in its grassroot structure. I am offering myself as the most qualified aspirant in terms of education, having street credibility to contest for the Delta State House of Assembly, Isoko Constituency 1. It is not just for the position, but to ensure that our party members are better recognized and empowered.”
‎
‎According to him, “My commitment is to bridge gaps, foster peace, bring good tidings, and ensure we approach the 2027 elections with confidence as a united indivisible family.”
‎
‎Chief Igelige also promised to prioritize the welfare of the LGA, Ward executives and members of the party in the Constituency, noting that active party like the All Progressive Congress requires a motivated base and active representation.”

He further said that, it is important that the newly elected EXCO members should enjoy the office they are occupying and this feat can be achieved only if the right candidate is chosen to douse or surmount other aspirants.

He emphasized that, if there is war and a beautiful bride is thrown into the war front, that ends the war. He is the beautiful bride, he added.
‎
‎He noted that there are secret meetings going on in Oleh and constituency 1 by other political parties, who are desirous to contest and occupy the House of Assembly position.

For the party to win 2027 election, he appealed to the leaders to consider Oleh for the Assembly ticket, adding that “That’s only when the fight can be easy for the party because if another party brings a sellable candidate from Oleh, considering the massive votes in Oleh, it won’t look nice because average Oleh man is waiting for the primary outcome”.
‎
‎He added that, “I am not asking for your support based on personal ambition alone, but based on a shared vision for victory. I seek your advice, prayers, your guidance, and ultimately your unflinching support. Together, we can ensure that our party remains the dominant political force.”
‎
‎He also remarked and outlined his position that as a former Oleh Community Secretary General, Secretary to the palace, Private Secretary to the former House of Assembly member with a lot of legislative experience, choosing him would be the best option for the party to have a smooth sail in 2027, and credible representation in equitable distribution of empowerments.
‎
‎Igelige, who was accompanied by men and people of substance promised to make proud the constituency, inclusive of party leaders.

He said, having been endorsed by Oleh Community President General, Mr. Believe Unuafe, members of the Exco and His Royal Majesty, Anthony William Onovughe, JP, FCAI, Omogha 1, The Odio Ologbo of Oleh Kingdom, as a frontline aspirant to represent Oleh Kingdom, he appealed for support to actualise his promises to attract meaningful development to the constituency.
‎
‎He congratulated the APC LGA executive for victory during the just concluded congress done by the party, noting that their successful election was based on recognition of their loyalty and commitment to the basic tenets of politicking.

He thanked the party executive for their time and and unwavering loyalty to the party, stating that together, the part will achieve a landslide victory in the forthcoming 2027 general election.
‎
‎On his part, the chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Isoko South Local Government Area, Comrade Victor Ekelega, commended Chief (Dr) Jubilant Igelige, for finding time to consult the LGA executive.

He pointed out that Chief Jubilant is a known name within the system, a committed young party member with diverse qualifications to occupy the seat.

In addition, he encouraged him to focus on his aspiration and consult widely with the party leaders of Isoko South Constituency 1, to ensure he gets the nod of the party leaders ahead of the APC primary election.
‎
‎He emphasized that, Chief Jubilant Igelige is highly qualified in terms of education to represent Isoko South Constituency 1 at the Delta State House of Assembly.

He is very outspoken both in community and political issues, with street credibility.
‎
‎In a another development, Chief Jubilant Igelige, also consulted the All Progressive Congress, Emede ward 05 and Irri ward 10 respectively to seek their support.

Take Decisive Action to Stop “DEVE”, CJF Charges Governor Oborevwori

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Concerned Journalists Forum (CJF), Nigeria, has charged the government of Delta State to take decisive action to stop community youths from collecting illegal levies – popularly known as “DEVE” from property developers in the state, stating that if Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is determined to stop the cruel act he would achieve it right away.

CJF, gave the charge, in Warri recently in a statement jointly signed by its National Chairman, and Secretary, Comrade Emeka Nwokocha, and Mr. Celestite Ukah, calling the attention of the government of Delta State to the worsening trends of illegal collection of levies (Deve) by community youths in the state.

CJF stressed the compelling need to eradicate the illegal and anti-development practice, noting that the repeated reference to the ban of ‘Deve’ by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his constant call on the youths to shun the illegal practice are fast becoming a rhetoric, while the obnoxious practice continues to wax strong by the day.

Continuing, CJF stated that though the Delta State Government had done the needful to enact a law banning the illegal youth-instigated practice, but noted that mere enactment of the law is not enough to rid the state of the illegal practice, saying it has eaten deep into the marrow of community youths who oftentimes see the illegal collection of development levies as an easy means of making quick money at the expense of the unprotected and defenceless poor citizens.

CJF drew the attention of Governor Oborevwori to the fact that the illegal collection of levies from property developers by community youths had since become an ingrained culture whose origin could be traced to the weak democratic system in the country that seems to have elevated thuggery and lawlessness to the peak.

It added that most of the community youths behind the Deve oftentimes boast of their connection with high profile political persons in the country.

Thus, they are oftentimes unshaken as they remain defiant, despite the repeated warnings by the Governor.

It added that most residents are reluctant and sometimes very scared to call the police when they are being extorted by community youths because of the weak law enforcement systems in the country.

CJF said, “Most times, the demand for ‘Deve’ is done in a hostile and intimidating manner that pose threat to innocent residents.”

CJF further stated that eradicating ‘Deve’ is beyond enacting a law that bans it, adding that a more decisive action will have to be taken by the government of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to finally stamp out the nefarious practice.

Continuing, CJF put forward suggestions to the government of Delta State to consider in order to bring an end to ‘Deve’.

First, the government should constitute a committee to move round the most affected communities and hold townhall meetings with the community natives and residents, then take the message of the governor and explain the laws that ban ‘Deve’ to the grassroots and demand compliance from those perpetuating the cruel act.

Second, the traditional rulers in every community should be made to compel their subjects to shun ‘Deve’ and should be seen to be taking actions to curb the menace in their communities.

Third, the security agencies should be inspired to do their jobs diligently by responding quickly to every complaint about ‘Deve’ made by innocent citizens.

Fourth, a functional telephone number should be activated and made accessible to the citizens and residents in the state through which complaints about ‘Deve’ will be made to designated authorities and actions will be taken immediately.

Fifth, the judiciary should be empowered to be up and doing in hearing cases on ‘Deve’ without delay.

Sixth, sensitisation programmes should be regularly aired on radio and television to take the message further to the grassroots.

Seventh, the citizens and residents should be inspired to promptly turn in their petitions in the event that their complaints were not given attention by the law enforcement officers and such petitions will be promptly attended to and treated accordingly.

CJF concluded that if Governor Sheriff Oborevwori would heed its advice, the issue of ‘Deve’ will totally be eradicated and the state will embrace an unprecedented development in no distant time.

CJF added, “No state, irrespective of its abundant resources will develop when lawlessness and breakdown of law and order are the order of the day, just as the youths perpetuating ‘Deve’ are presenting Delta State before the international community. “Take the bull by the horns,” CJF stated.

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