back to top
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Home Blog Page 3

2027- ISOKO FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY: Ozoro Progressive Union Endorsed Obomovo

By
Isoko Nation News
-

In a bid to secure the ticket of the Isoko South and North Federal Constituency of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Builder Blessing Obomovo has been endorsed by Ozoro Progressive Union (OPU) as their sole candidate of the APC forthcoming primary election.

The endorsement event was held at Opute Hall, Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Addressing the mammoth crowd at the Opute Hall, Ozoro, Builder Blessing Obomovo informed his maternal home that he is vying for the seat of the House of Representative to represent Isoko South and North Federal Constituency at the Green Chambers.

According to him, it is time for Isoko South and North Federal Constituency to have effective representation with a man who can bring back home the dividends of democracy.

He appreciated the people Ozoro community for the show of love and promised to make Ozoro development a priority, if given the opportunity to represent the Federal Constituency.

He said haven’t been born and raised in Ozoro, there was no way he will neglect his root, his mother is from the Royal House of Ozoro Kingdom and Father from Owhe, noting that it is win, win for both Owhe and Ozoro.

Speaking during the event, the President General of Ozoro Progressive Union, Chief Beckley Asiafa acknowledged that Builder Blessing Obomovo for always supporting Ozoro kingdom in the past and not because of Election and asked the Council of Chiefs, Iletus, Edios, Ewheya and the youths to all support him.

Meanwhile in a unanimous voice, the five blocs of the kingdom, Uruto, Erovie his maternal home and Etevie, Urude, and Oruamudhu, unanimously endorsed their son as their sole candidate for the House of Representative.

This position was further strengthened by the presence and alignment of key stakeholders and community structures across the kingdom, including representatives of the Palace led by Chief Solomon Akeni; the Odiologbo of Erovie, Odio Tobi; the Ozoro Progressive Union led by Chief Beckley Asiafa (the President General of OPU); the Oletu-logbo of Ozoro Kingdom, Oletu Egbamuno; the Ewheya leadership under Mrs. Comfort Ikrege; and the youth leadership led by Mr. Marvis Ogbu.

A motion for the endorsement of Builder Blessing Obomovo was moved by Chief Solomon Akeni who represented the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom and was supported by erstwhile President-General of Ozoro Progressive Union Chief Raphael Afemari.

Dignitaries present at the event from Ozoro kingdom are Chief Ukoli, Chief Ejemite, erstwhile President General of the Community, Sir Areh, Chief Arah,
Chief Ovrawha, Hon.Otheremu, Sir Martin Ugbegwo, Comr. Osioni, all OPU executive, Chief Omogware, Hon. Chief Frank Ozue, Chief Tobi (Odio of Erovie), all the community women leaders and the youth president comrade Marvin Ogbu.

ROTATIONAL POWER CLASH: Tensions Rise in Isoko South as Political Loyalty Comes Under Fire

By
Isoko Nation News
-

 By Lucky Uto

A fresh wave of political tension is brewing in Isoko South Constituency 1 as accusations of hypocrisy and opportunism dominate conversations ahead of the next House of Assembly race.

At the center of the unfolding drama is Hon. Odogu Emakpor, popularly known by his slogan “I Have A Dream,” whose early advocacy for rotational governance is now being spotlighted by supporters amid growing controversy over zoning arrangements.

Long before the 2022 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries, Emakpor (I Have A Dream ), had consistently championed the ideals of rotational governorship and equitable distribution of the House of Assembly seat within Isoko South Constituency 1.

Political observers recall that his position was not only clear but strongly articulated across various platforms, earning him recognition as one of the early voices pushing for fairness and balance in representation.

However, recent developments have sparked outrage among his supporters and some stakeholders in the constituency.

Critics allege that individuals who previously opposed both the current administration and the rotational framework are now leading the charge, insisting that it is Emede’s turn to produce the next House of Assembly representative.

According to sources within the constituency, these same actors were accused of actively working against the success of the present governor during previous electoral contests in Emede.

Their sudden alignment with the zoning principle, many argue, raises questions about sincerity and political consistency.

“This is not just about rotation; it is about integrity and commitment,” a political stakeholder remarked. “You cannot fight a system yesterday and claim ownership of it today simply because it suits your ambition.”

The situation has triggered heated debates across political circles, with some describing the development as a struggle between long-standing advocates of equity and what they term “late converts” seeking to benefit from an arrangement they once resisted.

As the political atmosphere in Emede, Isoko South Constituency 1 continues to intensify, analysts warn that how parties and stakeholders manage the issue of zoning and fairness could significantly shape voter sentiment and influence the outcome of the next House of Assembly election.

For now, the battle lines appear drawn, and the question remains: who truly deserve the ticket in Emede to represents the spirit of rotation in Isoko South Constituency 1?

Ikpokpo Consults Isoko Nation on Senatorial Ambition

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Michael Ilaya/Kelvin Ohoror

A former two time chairman of lsoko South Local Government Council, and Delta state ALGON and aspirant for the Delta South Senatorial District, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, has consulted the Isoko Nation ahead of the 2027 general elections, engaging the Isoko stakeholders with a promise of inclusive and effective representation.

The consultation took place at the Isoko Development Union (IDU) Secretariat, Oleh, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, where he met with people drawn from across Isoko clans for a deepened consultation aimed at informing the stakeholders on his senatorial ambition.

At the event which attracted over 500 stakeholders from across Isoko, Urhobo, Itsekiri and Ijaw ethnic nationalities, Ikpokpo stressed that he has identified a gap in the system, which he desires to fill, and that his aspiration was driven by the need to bridge that gap between leaders and the people.

According to him, “My driving force is the desire to fill that identified existing gap, and I pledge to communicate, legislate, unite and empower the people”; making up the CLUE agenda.

He also promised not to delay in rendering his score card if elected.

In his remark, Dr. Marvis Onojogho, speaking on behalf of the Urhobos in Delta South Senatorial District support the aspiration of Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, being a tested and trusted fellow, as two time local government chairman and ALGON chairman.

Also speaking, Dr. Andrew Megbele and Prince Anthony who spoke on behalf the Itsekiri and Ijaw ethnic nationalities, all threw their weight behind the aspiration of Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo.

Earlier on, the President General of Isoko Development Union, Prof. Chris Akpotu, thanked the various ethnic nationalities for turning out for the event, adding that at the appropriate time, the Isoko leaders and stakeholders will converge and fathom the way forward.

The climax of the event was the blessing of the kolanut for the aspirant on behalf of Traditional Rulers present by the Odiologbo of Owhe Clan, HRM, Romanus Inana1.

CRCEI Applauds Civil Society Community on Recent Visit to IGP Disu, Charges Police Personnel on People-Centered Policing

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Emeka Nwokocha

Frontline human rights defender in Nigeria, Citizens Rights Concern Empowerment Initiative (CRCEI), has amplified its calls to the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to strictly comply with Nigeria Police Act 2020 in the discharge of their statutory duties.

CRCEI, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Amb. Monday Enudi, on Friday, reiterated the call while applauding recent visit to IGP Olatunji Disu by Civil Society Delegates led by a legal luminary, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, in Abuja, capital of Nigeria.

CRCEI, described the visit as a proactive and well thought out initiative to strengthen collaboration between the police and civil society organisations in ensuring policing in Nigeria is rooted in the protection of human rights, in line with global best practice.

CRCEI, further stated that the formidable team of the Civil Society Delegates on the visit underscores the unrelenting efforts by the civil society community to prevail on the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to strongly promote accountability measures to ensure officers respect constitutional guarantees and are held liable in cases of misconduct.

Continuing, CRCEI commended IGP Olatunji Disu for his sense of descent policing, noting that the IGP’s reaffirmed commitment to people-centered policing inspires hope for a better policing in Nigeria that matches global best practices.

CRCEI further called on IGP Disu to be steadfast in the implementation of his administration’s ongoing reforms, whose components include updating of training manuals, improving officer welfare, strict directives against interference in civil matters, transparency and accountability in the police force, and the protection of human rights across all police operations.

CRCEI concluded by re-emphasising the compelling need for police personnel to strictly comply with Nigeria Police Act 2020 while carrying out their duties, noting that legal provisions on police conduct and suspects’ rights should not be glossed over; they should be the foundational ethics of police duties both at police stations and across other beats.

The delegates included Mr. Femi Falana, SAN; Mr. Adesina Oke, Esq. of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers (NADL); Barr. Okeke Chinwike of the African Law Foundation (AFRILAW); Mr. Barbara S. Magaji of Amnesty International; Mr. Anietie Ewang of Human Rights Watch (HRW); Mr. Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa; Mr. Bathsheba Taglia of CISLAC/Transparency International Nigeria; Mrs. Kemi Okenyodo, Executive Director of Partners West Africa-Nigeria (PWAN); and Dr. Itia Otabor of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD).

In a time of selfish politics , Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazomaro puts the people first – Comr. Ilaya Beckly, INPLM President

By
Isoko Nation News
-

In today’s political climate where many leaders pursue personal gain over public good, Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro stands out as a rare example of people-centered leadership in Isoko North.

Long before any political ambition, he has consistently supported community development, youth empowerment, education, and humanitarian causes.

He remains accessible, humble, and deeply connected to the grassroots, not just during election seasons, but at all times.

Engr. Ashakah’s reputation is built on integrity, compassion, reliability, and genuine service.

While others make promises, he has built trust through action.

He listens; he engages, and he prioritizes the needs of the people above personal interest.

At a time when Isoko North needs credible, modern, and unifying leadership, he represents hope for sustainable development.

Education, Empowerment, keys to unlock the development, unity, progress of Oleh Community – Chief Igelige

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror

A frontline aspirant of the Delta State House of Assembly, Isoko South Constituency 1, Chief (Dr) Jubilant Igelige, (JP), in the All Progressive Congress (APC) has described education and empowerment as the key to unlocking development, unity and progress of Oleh Community during the Oleh United Musician Easter Programme at Isoko Central School, Playground, Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

He made this known in a keynote speech titled; “Education And Empowerment Drive, a Tool for Oleh Community Unity, Development, and Progress.”

According to the leading aspirant of the APC, Isoko South Constituency 1, House of Assembly race, “Education and empowerments in every kingdom are keys to unlocking community’s growth and potentials. When people come together in desperate pursuit of knowledge, progress and unity, greatness becomes inevitable”.

Chief Igelige added that, “there is no doubt, just as education is the bedrock of every child in the society, empowerment is also a veritable tool that establishes our people on the path of greatness. When the people are empowered by financial giants, captains of industries, business moguls, great entrepreneurs, it promote inclusiveness, unity and place the community on the path of growth and development”.

He reiterates that, “going forward, empowerment and educational drive are like two siamese twins — both context are inseparable binomial pairs, which sometimes are referred to as “education for empowerment or empowerment for education”.

The frontline aspirant further said that “Education is widely recognized as the primary mechanism for achieving gender equality and enhance self confidence to participate in society development — it guarantees progress, growth and development of every community. On this basis, as an illustrious sons/daughters of Oleh community who are desperate for the development of our dear community, we must characteristically imbibe moral principles that would birth unity, which will in turn act as a catalyst in championing a course and bring to the realization of the two inseparable twins — education and empowerment.”

He noted that, education and empowerment are two great weapons that turns a society around for good and greatness, the Oleh people should also be abreast with the facts that education is not a scam — that idea being disseminated by a few that education is a scam should be discouraged and disregarded, on account that, the importance of education in nation building and development can not be overemphasized.

Igelige maintained that, “Education and empowerment are two great tools that are needed in enhancing and building the capacity of our musicians. We have great talents amongst young and promising musicians in our community, that needed to be supported and empowered to boost their music career.”

“In essence, the discovery of talent as a musician is one thing, developing it is another thing. But without the instrumentality of empowerment, a discovered music talent when jettisoned leads to a death end. That’s why as a speaker of this epoch event that focuses on this transformative topic, I strongly recommend education and empowerment drive as a bridge of unity in our dear Oleh Community.”

He called on Oleh United Musicians (OUM) as well as Oleh people to rise and bond together in unity for societal growth, unity in political growth, and as a people of common purpose, that the only indisputable tools to pursue this agenda is Education and Empowerment, stating that it is the only veritable initiative which act as a gateway to the development and progress of Oleh Kingdom.

He therefore appealed to the people of Oleh community to encouraged and promote the capacity of their own musicians with financial support/empowerment, buying of musical equipments, training of musicians to boost their knowledge, skills in the music industry, support local schools and educational initiatives. Mentor the youths and share expertise, join community projects and drive progress.

He emphasized that, “It is my desire to recommend education and empowerment as a tool and catalyst for Oleh Community’s unity and development. We must sustain this drive and promote it by encouraging our musicians as they navigate through global world for relevance.”

Earlier on, the President General of Oleh Community Development Union (OCDU) Mr. Believe Unuafe, commended Oleh United Musicians (OUM) for their steadfastness in promoting the cultural heritage and oneness of the community.

He admonished them to be more resolute to unite the kingdom for sustainable development and growth.

In his remark, the President of Oleh United Musicians (OUM), Prince Elvis Akpoyibo, appreciate Oleh community leaders for finding time to attend the epoch making event.

2027: Why Isoko Nation Is Rallying Behind Senator Joel-Onowakpo

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Nelson Egware

In the agrarian community of Emede in Isoko South Local Government Area, what began as a routine constituency briefing evolved into a defining political moment, one that is already shaping conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections in Delta South Senatorial District.

The gathering brought together a cross-section of the Isoko nation, traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youth groups, women, and professionals, united by a singular purpose: to assess performance and determine the future.

By the end of the meeting, the verdict was unmistakable. The Isoko nation had passed a vote of confidence in Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and endorsed him for a second term, citing performance and strategic positioning within the National Assembly.

The endorsement did not emerge from sentiment or political convenience. Rather, it was anchored on a growing consensus that continuity in representation offers a more viable path to development than frequent political turnover.

For many speakers, the issue was not merely about supporting a candidate but about consolidating gains already made within a relatively short period.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo’s journey in the Senate has been anything but typical.

Entering the National Assembly as a first-time lawmaker, he quickly navigated the complexities of legislative work to assume critical leadership roles.

Currently serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content and Vice Chairman of the Committees on Defence and Labour, Employment and Productivity, his rapid rise has been widely acknowledged as both rare and strategic for Delta South.

Stakeholders at the Emede gathering noted that such positions are not only indicators of personal competence but also avenues for influence, platforms through which constituency interests can be projected at the highest levels of national decision-making.

In their view, replacing such a lawmaker at this stage would amount to resetting a system that is already yielding results.

Beyond committee leadership, the senator’s legislative footprint has also contributed to his growing appeal.

His involvement in bills and motions spanning education, healthcare, oil and gas, and economic development reflects a broad-based approach to governance.

Of particular significance is the legal backing secured for the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, an achievement seen as both symbolic and economically strategic for the Niger Delta region.

Yet, while legislative accomplishments formed part of the discussion, it was the senator’s grassroots interventions that resonated most deeply with constituents.

Over the past two years and ten months, his initiatives have touched multiple sectors in agriculture, youth empowerment, skills development, and infrastructure.

Farmers across the district have benefited from the distribution of fertilizers, while hundreds of constituents have participated in empowerment programmes facilitated through agencies such as SMEDAN.

Through collaborations with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), over a thousand individuals have received specialized training, including in areas like shipbuilding, aligning with the region’s economic realities.

Employment facilitation has also featured prominently in his scorecard, with beneficiaries reportedly securing positions in federal institutions, including the police and the Nigerian Navy.

In a region grappling with youth unemployment, such interventions were described by stakeholders as both impactful and necessary.

Infrastructure and community-based projects further strengthened the case for continuity.

These include the installation of 500KVA transformers in selected communities, solar-powered street lighting in parts of Patani, and emergency road repairs in communities such as Olomoro, Koko, and others across the district.

Additional initiatives in ICT and innovation such as ongoing efforts to establish an artificial intelligence and data development centre, were highlighted as forward-looking investments in the future of the youth.

Voices from across the socio-political spectrum echoed similar sentiments.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, HRM Anthony Ogbogbo, Ibuka I, noted that the Senator’s performance transcends ethnic lines within the district, impacting Isoko, Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo communities alike.

For him, leadership that delivers results should be sustained rather than disrupted.

Political leaders and administrators also lent their voices.

Director-General of Delta State Traffic Management Authority, Hon. Benjamin Okiemute, Chairman State Urban Water Board, Chief Joe Arausi, Chairman Hospitals Management Board, Dr Paul Oweh, for Chairman ISOKO North LGA, Chief Emmanuel Edevor, Hon. Christian Iteire, former chairmen of Isoko North Local Government Council, described the senator’s achievements as remarkable for a first-term lawmaker, emphasizing that the breadth of his outreach across the senatorial district demonstrates both commitment and capacity.

Similarly, Hon. Friday Olokor, Leader of the Isoko South Legislative Arm, praised the scale of interventions within a short time and expressed optimism that a second term would yield even greater dividends for Senator Joel-Onowakpo and the member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko.

From the youth constituency, Comrade Joel Emeni, President of the Isoko Development Union Youth Wing, underscored the importance of continuity in leadership.

He likened the Senator’s efforts to a difficult but rewarding harvest, noting that meaningful achievements often require time, patience, and sustained effort.

For the youth, he said, supporting a performing leader is an investment in the future.

Women leaders were equally emphatic. Hon. Orezi Esievo and Pastor Mrs. Rhoda Ella Ikede described the senator’s performance as exceptional, particularly when compared with longer-serving predecessors.

Their assessment, rating him highly while acknowledging human limitations, reflected a broader sentiment among women groups who see tangible benefits in his approach to representation.

Support also came from special interest groups, including persons living with disabilities, who pledged their backing based on what they described as inclusive leadership and a demonstrated willingness to engage all segments of society.

Perhaps the most far-reaching endorsement came from the leadership of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), led by Professor Chris Akpotu.

He characterized Senator Joel-Onowakpo as a source of pride for the Isoko nation, pointing to his legislative dexterity and growing national relevance.

More importantly, Akpotu framed the endorsement within a historical context, highlighting the need for strategic unity to avoid past political missteps that had cost the Isoko people opportunities for advancement.

This call for unity was a recurring theme throughout the gathering.

Under the moderation of High Chief Iduh Amadhe, stakeholders not only endorsed the senator but also adopted a broader political alignment, expressing support for continuity at both federal and state levels.

The logic, as articulated by several speakers, is that alignment with existing power structures enhances access to resources and accelerates development.

To operationalize this consensus, the Isoko nation resolved to establish a committee tasked with engaging other potential aspirants from the area.

The objective is to foster dialogue and encourage a unified front ahead of the 2027 elections, thereby avoiding internal divisions that could weaken the region’s political influence.

In his remarks, Senator Joel-Onowakpo reflected on the journey so far, attributing his emergence in 2023 to collective resolve and unity among the Isoko people.

He cautioned against what he described as political regression, the tendency to abandon tested leadership for unproven alternatives, arguing that sustainable development is built on continuity and experience.

His message was both reflective and forward-looking: the progress recorded within two years and ten months is only a foundation, and greater achievements are possible with sustained support and increased experience.

As the gathering concluded, the mood was one of cautious optimism.

While the endorsement represents a significant political statement, it also sets the stage for heightened expectations.

For the Senator, it is both a validation of past efforts and a mandate to deliver more.

For the Isoko nation, it is a strategic decision, one that prioritizes consolidation over experimentation.

In a political environment often marked by fragmentation and short-term calculations, the decision to rally behind a single candidate years ahead of an election signals a shift toward long-term thinking.

It reflects an understanding that political capital, once built, must be nurtured to yield lasting benefits.

If the developments in Emede are any indication, the Isoko nation has chosen its path.

The task ahead is to sustain the unity that made this moment possible and to translate it into tangible progress for Delta South in the years to come.

Engr. Goodnews Agbi Crowned First Ovie of Oyede Kingdom, Ends Age Long Odiologbo System of Leadership

By
Isoko Nation News
-

The former two-time Delta State governorship candidate and Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Project Monitoring, Engr. Goodnews Agbi, PhD, has been crowned the first Ovie of Oyede Kingdom, formally bringing an end to the centuries-old Odiologbo system of leadership.

It was a defining moment in Oyede Kingdom last Saturday, as an age-old tradition gave way to a new royal order, ushering in a Monarchical system where none had ever existed before.

Oyede Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area is uniquely bordered on all sides – North, West, Wouth, and East, by Irri, Aviara, Ada-Irri, and Idheze-Irri communities, all located within Isoko South Local Government Area.

In a ceremony steeped in culture and symbolism, the former two-time Delta State governorship candidate and Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Project Monitoring, Engr. Goodnews Agbi, PhD, was crowned the first Ovie of Oyede Kingdom, formally bringing an end to the centuries-old Odiologbo system of leadership.

The coronation, held at the Edion traditional hall, marked a decisive break from the past, where the oldest man in the community automatically ascended the throne.

With Agbi’s emergence, Oyede Kingdom has now embraced a structured monarchical system designed to promote stability, inclusiveness, and continuity.

The newly crowned Ovie of Oyede Kingdom, is christened His Royal Majesty, Engr. Goodnews Agbi, Ph.D, Athuaro 1.

The newly established Ovieship, already approved and gazetted by the Delta State Government, will rotate among the kingdom’s three recognised ruling houses.

The newly crowned Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Goodnews Goodman Agbi, PhD, Athuaro I, who hails from the Athuaro Royal family, emerged through a unanimous endorsement by nine kingmakers representing the three ruling houses.

He was first presented to the Oyede Traditional Council by the Clan Otota, High Chief Apah Itesah, before being crowned by the Iyasere of Oyede Kingdom, High Chief Eta Enahoro, following the completion of traditional rites.

Speaking after the ceremony, the Iyasere of Oyede Kingdom, High Chief Eta Enahoro, described the moment as historic and deeply emotional.

“I feel fulfilled. I feel elated that in my time, what many people thought would not happen has happened. I am overwhelmed,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the new traditional structure would usher in development and renewed hope.

“There is hope for this community. There is going to be progress. Everything good is going to come to this community,” he added.

Enahoro, however, acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly the need for unity and critical infrastructure such as a royal palace.

“The issue of a palace is something we are going to address very quickly. In a short time, we will have a befitting palace for the king. There is no cause for alarm,” he assured.

He also called for reconciliation among aggrieved stakeholders, stressing that the process was guided by law.

“Those who were against what we have done today should retrace their steps and come back so that we can have a united front. We are going to reconcile everybody,” he said.

“I cannot sit with anyone to set aside a government gazette. I don’t have that power,” he added.

Corroborating this position, the Clan Otota of Oyede Kingdom, High Chief Apah Itesah, outlined the legal and traditional processes that led to the historic transition.

He explained that following the death of the last Odiologbo in 2025, the kingdom formally announced not only his passing but also the end of the Odiologbo system.

“After the demise of the last Odiologbo, the kingdom was informed that he would be the last to occupy that position, as Oyede had already concluded plans to transit to an Ovieship,” he said.

Itesah noted that the process for the transition began as far back as 2016 and was concluded with a government gazette in 2020, which recognised three ruling houses—Athuaro, Okro, and Omogbe.

According to him, despite legal challenges from some quarters, the Delta State High Court in Ozoro affirmed the position of the kingdom.

“The court ruled that a king should be installed, and that is what is being implemented today,” he stated, adding that the Ovieship would rotate among the recognised ruling houses.

Also lending his voice, Chairman of the Oyede Council of Chiefs, Chief Prosper Edafe, described the transition as inevitable and forward-looking, driven by the community’s desire for development.

“Life is full of changes. With modernity, you look towards the future and what will bring development. This transition is necessary, and meaningful indigenes have seen it,” he said.

Edafe expressed strong confidence in the capacity of the new monarch, citing his academic pedigree and political experience as key advantages.

“Look at the kind of man who is king today—his qualifications, his experience. When you have such a person as a traditional ruler, you should expect the best,” he noted.

He further emphasised the Monarch’s disposition to peace, describing him as calm and calculated.

“He radiates peace. The prayers of the kingmakers were anchored on peace, and we believe God and our ancestors will ensure peace in this kingdom,” he said.

On mobilising support for the new administration, Edafe dismissed concerns about resistance, insisting that performance would naturally win over skeptics.

“When something is good, you don’t need much campaign. What he does will make people follow him,” he added.

In the same vein, Vice Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, High Chief Abighe Itiveh, described the coronation as a turning point in the history of the kingdom.

“What has happened today is a great blessing, a great change in the life of our kingdom. We believe this change will affect every Oyede citizen, both at home and in the diaspora,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the reign of the new monarch would be defined by peace and progress.

“He is a man of peace and integrity. He will lead the people in peace and progress,” he stated.

Also speaking, High Chief Gabriel Oganekeja Ereme said the calibre of personalities present at the ceremony underscored the confidence reposed in the new Monarch.

“The presence of top personalities here today is because of the man taking the mantle of leadership. He is ready to lead in peace, and we are ready to support him,” he said.

In his acceptance speech, HRM Agbi described his emergence as a “new dawn” for Oyede Kingdom, pledging to promote unity, uphold tradition, and lead with the fear of God.

“I am fully committed to fostering unity and lasting peace in Oyede Kingdom. My reign will prioritise harmony within our communities and strengthen our relationship with neighbouring towns, because development can only thrive where peace exists,” he said.

He further assured of his determination to drive development and improve the welfare of his people.

“As Ovie, I will work tirelessly to attract development, empower our people, and ensure that every son and daughter of Oyede lives in peace, security, and dignity, while maintaining cordial ties with our neighbours,” he added.

He urged youths, women, and stakeholders to rally behind his reign to reposition the kingdom for sustainable development.

Oyede Kingdom had operated the Odiologbo system until the death of its last occupant in 2025, paving the way for the full implementation of the Ovieship structure earlier gazetted by the state government in 2020.

The 66-year-old monarch brings to the throne a rich blend of academic and professional experience.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; a Master’s in Structural Engineering from the University of Lagos; an MBA from the University of Calabar; and a Master’s degree in Civil Geotechnics from Delta State University, Abraka.

He also holds a PhD in Monetary Economics from Staton University, Florida, USA, and is currently pursuing another doctoral degree in Structural Engineering at Delta State University, Abraka.

Athuaro I is a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, and the Nigerian Institute of Structural Engineers—bringing a wealth of expertise to the throne at a pivotal moment in the kingdom’s history.

Isoko Nation Endorse Senator Joel-Onowakpo for 2nd Tenure

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror & Matthew Unyove

The people of Isoko nation have endorsed Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second tenure during a briefing today by the Senator at his country home, Emede, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Presenting his score card to the Isoko nation, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas said that, for the past 2 years and 10 months in the Senate, he has been able to attract numerous projects and empowerment to the Delta South Senatorial District.

According to him, he has sponsored several bills in the Red Chambers with some signed into law, while others are waiting for Presidential assent.

These include; Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko (Establishment) Bill, passed and signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amended) Bill, 2023 for the establishment of Federal College of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies, Emede, passed by the Senate awaiting Presidential assent, Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Ode-Itsekiri (Establishment) Bill 2023, passed first reading, Federal Medical Centre (Amendment) Bill 2023, Federal Medical Centre, Oleh, passed by the Senate, Federal School of Nursing and Midwifery, Patani, Delta State, (Establishment), Bill 2024, undergoing legislative process, Federal Oil and Gas Hospital, Benikrukru (Establishment) Bill 2025, passed by the Senate awaiting Presidential assent and Oil Gas Content Development Institute, Emede which has passed first reading.

He also pointed out that, on the 2nd of October, 2023, 142 persons were empowered with deep freezers sewing machines, grinding machines, vulcanizing machines and motorcycles.

In 2024, over 1000 persons across the Senatorial District also got other numerous empowerment with provision of strategic equipment for women and the vulnerable persons, 17 persons also fully gained employment from Isoko nation alone.

He also went down memory lane to highlight how the Senate race started, and commended the Isoko people for the oneness demonstrated to secure his victory in 2023.

The Senator also admonished the clergymen for their spiritual support, urging them not to relent.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo however frowned at the people flooding the social media with propaganda of not performing with the aim of bringing him down politically, noting that all the propaganda are coming from Isoko sons and daughters.

He however appealed to Isoko nation to speak with one voice in other to enable him to return back to the Senate for a second term to consolidate on his achievements.

Earlier in his remark, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Delta State, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo said that “Isoko nation should endeavor to support President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second term bid and pull at least 300,000 votes in the next general election.

He also cautioned Isoko people to be patient and shunned politics of jealousy and backbiting and concentrate on the dividends that is coming in the nearest future.

In their separate remarks, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, HRM Anthony Uvietobore Ogbogbo, Ibuka 1, Dr. Barr. Paul Oweh, Hon. Emmanuel Edevor, Chief Mike Usige, Chief Joe Arausi, Hon. Barr. Erezi Esievo and Hon. Benjamin Okiemute Essien, all endorsed Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second term, that Isoko will never make the mistake of 2023.

They however commended Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for his outstanding performance in the Senate despite being a first timer at the Red Chambers.

Meanwhile, the President General of Isoko Development Union (IDU), Prof. Chris Akpotu, in his response said that “Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas at a strategic level in terms of government hierarchy with parliamentary dexterity, should be given a second term to represent Delta South Senatorial District at the Red Chambers”.

Additionally, Isoko nation in a voice vote unanimously endorsed Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second term.

Present at the briefing were Isoko Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, Hon. Jonathan Ajiroghene Ukodhiko, member representing Isoko South and North Federal Constituency, High Chief Iduh Amadhe, Barr. Eloho Edivri, Hon. Emamusi Obiodeh, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, Christian Iteire, Chief Dan Odhomo, Hon. Theresa Ikrike, Vice-chairman, Isoko South Local Government Council, the two APC LGA Chairmen, councillors from the two local government council, amongst other political stalwarts.

2027: ENGR.ASHAKAH OROBOSA UZUAZOMARO RIGHT CHOICE FOR ISOKO NORTH DTHA

By
Isoko Nation News
-

He bears the burden of people of ISOKO NORTH in his heart;

He loves the people of ISOKO NORTH with deep passion and unwavering commitment;

A true and worthy SON of ISOKO NORTH;

He stands for unity, fairness, grassroots development and inclusiveness;

Discriminates against no community in his philanthropist gestures;

His vision is clear and people-centered: Effective representation;

Strategic people-centred development,

He is ENGR. ASHAKAH OGHENEMARO OROBOSA , a voice of hope,

A symbol of progress,

And the right choice for the DELTA STATE HOUSE of ASSEMBLY, ISOKO NORTH CONSTITUENCY.

ISOKO NORTH, behold your own…

The time for purposeful representation is now.

1234...49Page 3 of 49

Recent Posts

Popular Posts

Popular Category

© 2026 - Isoko Nation Newspaper