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NUJ Isoko Chapel Commiserate with Senator Joel-Onowakpo on the Passage of His Mother-inlaw

By
Isoko Nation News
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The leadership and entire members of the Isoko Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, has commiserated with the Senator Representing Delta South Senatorial District, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas over the passage of his mother-inlaw.

In statement signed by the chairman of the Isoko Chapel of NUJ, Comrade Michael Ilaya and the Secretary, Comrade Matthew Unyove Stated that, “The leadership and entire members of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists received with profound sadness the news of the passing of your beloved Mother -in-Law. Please accept our deepest and heartfelt condolences on this painful loss”.

The statement read: “At this critical and difficult time , our thoughts and prayers are with you, your dear wife and the entire Idodo family.

“We pray that God Almighty grants you all the fortitude to bear this irreparable
loss and grants the departed eternal rest.

According to them, “May the cherished memories of her exemplary life, love and legacy continue to comfort and strengthen your family in the days ahead”.

They stated that, Senator Joel-Onowakpo should accept the assurances of the Union’s highest regards and
deepest sympathy.

UZERE WELL 14 BLOWOUT: Matters Arising 

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe

Since the 27th of June, 2026, when Uzere well 14 erupted, much has been said and written about the catastrophe but nothing meaningful has been done to abate the ceaseless flow spewing crude, gas, sludge and other impurities like an enraged volcano.

Presently, the Uzere environment is gravely bastardized just as the people are vehemently traumatized, disoriented and utterly bemused in a helpless state of despondecy.

While the brutal assault of the outrageous spill continues, the operators of the OML30 field, Heritage Energy Operational Services are feebly using a fleet of hired trucks to evacuate the gorging crude and other associated properties; the containment is slow, ineffective and the collosal damage to the environment and the entire Uzere community is escalating every minute.

Along the line, several personalities like the Managing Director of Heritage, Delta state Commissioner for Oil and Gas, OML30 Area B Trust Chairman, Isoko Youth body amongst others have visited the the scene for on-the-spot assessment .

In all, it has been either  “appeal to stay calm” or “everything possible is being done to curtail the situation”.

As it is, while the ding-dong merry go round goes on, the needful is not being done and Uzere, the second place where oil was discovered in Nigeria is inching towards extinction by the minute.

Ironically, while the brutal holocaust is unfolding and dehumanizing the people of Uzere, the other 55 or so oil wells in the two Uzere fields are running 24/7.

Now, the salient sore points that demand critical redress in this monumental disaster include:

a. Why has the foreign experts promised by Heritage Energy taking so long to mobilize to site while the Heritage MD has since returned to his cossy office at Lugard Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos.

b. Why is the JIV on the blow out yet to be concluded a month after the spillage started?

c. Why had the Delta State Governor failed to personally visit the site given the magnitude and time line of the tragedy?

d. Why has the company not put in concerted effort to do large scale booming of the peripheral and the adjoining swamps and farm lands considering the raining season against the adverse effects on the ecology and occupational interest of the people?

e. What has prevented the legislators representing the area including Ferguson Onwho, Jonathan Ukodhiko and Senator Joel Onowakpo not find time to visit the site and move motions of urgent public importance in their respective Chambers to bring the Uzere calamity into the desired national focus?

f. What stops the Presidency or at the least, the minister of petroleum from responding to this heart rendering circumstances?

g. Why is Heritage Energy not doing anything about immediate palliatives for the Uzere people as part of first line reach out to show empathy and interim succour and why is the company blocking Media access to the site if they don’t have anything to hide?

Actually, there are so many unanswered questions but the reality is that the situation is very challenging just as the slow response from both the company and regulating agencies is abysmal.

Conversely, if the Uzere Youth had disrupted oil and gas production for a few minutes, the deployment of troupes to dislodge would have been swift with alacrity.

Nevertheless, even if a man is to die next week, he should not jump into the grave today; so, before Uzere is consigned to history like Oloibiri, its only forerunner, the following should be done as first step intervention:

i. Heritage Energy must do a comprehensive dike and boom to curtail further spread of the massive spill. They MUST also do everything possible to stop the spill immediately.

ii. All efforts should be made to conclude the JIV within one week without further delay and a formal report issued.

iii. Heritage Energy should move in various palliatives to the immediate affected Uheri quarters in particular and the entire Uzere community in general.

iv. Take immediate census of direct and impacted families and households including farms/ farmlands, fish ponds, lakes, creecks, etc.for accurate records.

v. Commence immediate free medical outreach for the Uzere people to assuage the imposed health challenges.

vi. Provide alternative income sources or survival grants for the affected populace.

Midterm Action Plans to be moderated by both the relevant state and federal government agencies should include:

i. Commence comprehensive and thorough clean up of the impacted areas.

ii. Do adequate seismic integrity check on all Heritage Energy facilities in Uzere land to avoid this type of incident.

iii. Do a transparent assessment of the extents and scale of damage towards the payment of commensurate compensation as applicable under the OTC rates.

iv. The company to come up with a clear and distinct road map on the remediation not only of the impacted areas but across the entire community as the trucks evacuating the crude from the site are also gradually and systematically dropping some while drive in and out of the community.

v. Heritage Energy should quickly set up a top management team that should interface regularly with Uzere accredited leadership on the implementation of the road map towards recovery and reintegration of both the environment and the Uzere people.

vi. Heritage Energy should pay to Uzere community a paltry sum of not less than N5 billion as general and aggravated damages.

Then on the long term template; efforts should be made by the company to build capacity and confidence by embarking in the under listed issues of concern:

i. Engage at least 100 Uzere Youths into the company in different categories.

ii. Train and equip another 100 Uzere Youths in different skills.

iii. Provide microcredit to 300 women for enhanced livelihood.

iv. Provide fishing gears, improved seedlings and farming imputs.

v. Increase patronage of indigenous registered contractors.

vi.Take over the running of the Uzere IPP.

vii. Provide educational grants to at least 100 Uzere undergraduates with emphasis on selected disciplines.

viii. Heritage Energy should now have a Logistics Base in Uzere for effective and seamless operations.

v. Provide a Health insurance scheme domiciled in the Uzere cottage hospital to the tune of N30 million annually for the next five years.

vi. Heritage Energy should come up with a corporate social responsibility plan for the Uzere cluster outside the PIA portfolio.

Finally, while hoping that the situation at hand will be brought under control soonest, I wish to caution that the company should avoid a divide and rule approach as bottled anger can also blow out like well 14.

Such avoidable backlash can as well compound the already ugly situation.

May God save and bless Uzere to enjoy the benefits of her land.

SDU VC Commissions Faculty of Computing Solar Power Project, Commends Innovation, Teamwork

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

In a significant step towards sustainable infrastructure development at Southern Delta University (SDU), the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada on Thursday, 23rd July, 2026, officially commissioned the newly installed solar lighting systems at the Faculty of Computing Complex and the Faculty of Computing Offices Complex.The project was executed in line with the vision of the Vice chancellor regarding lighting up the University community .

The landmark project, executed under the leadership of the Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Engr. Prof. P. U. Chinedu, provides clean, reliable, and uninterrupted power through state-of-the-art solar energy systems. The Faculty Complex is powered by a 15kVA inverter system, supported by a 15kWh lithium battery bank and twelve (12) 680W bifacial solar panels, while the Faculty Offices Complex features a 5kVA inverter system, backed by a 9kWh lithium battery bank and six (6) 680W bifacial solar panels.

The project also complements an earlier 4kVA inverter installation at the Faculty Offices Complex initiated by the Department of Data Science, further strengthening energy reliability across the Faculty.

Speaking during the commissioning, the Vice-Chancellor lauded the Dean, Prof. P. U. Chinedu, the Heads of Departments, and members of staff of the Faculty of Computing for their foresight, prudent management of the Faculty’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and their commitment to improving the University’s infrastructure.

Prof. Awhefeada described the project as a constructive initiative and a testament to the Faculty’s pace-setting mindset in contributing meaningfully to the physical development of Southern Delta University. He urged other faculties and units of the University to emulate the Faculty of Computing by initiating impactful projects that will further advance the University’s vision of academic excellence and sustainable development.

The Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Chinedu, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor and members of the University Management Team for honouring the invitation and for their continuous support. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Heads of Departments and staff, whose collective efforts made the successful execution of the project possible.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by members of the University Management Team , Deans, Heads of Departments, and staff of the faculty.

The successful completion and commissioning of the solar lighting systems underscore Southern Delta University’s commitment to innovation, renewable energy, and the provision of a conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and administration.

Omoyibo Donates Additional ₦50m to Complete Igorigo’s House Project

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Chief Engr. Daniel Omoyibo, Managing Director of Danmotech Nigeria Limited and Dantinajo Hotel & Resorts, has donated an additional ₦50 million towards the completion of the house project of Chief Hon. Godday Excellence Igorigo, bringing his total contribution to ₦70 million.

The latest donation follows an earlier contribution of ₦20 million made by the businessman to support the same project, a gesture that has attracted commendation from associates and well-wishers.

Expressing gratitude in a statement, Igorigo described Omoyibo’s generosity as exceptional, saying the support reflected his compassion, selflessness and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

He noted that the financial assistance had significantly accelerated the completion of the project and served as a strong source of encouragement to him and his family.

According to him, the donation was more than financial support, describing it as “an investment in hope, progress and the future of my family.”

Igorigo commended the Danmotech boss for standing by him at a critical moment, adding that the gesture demonstrated uncommon kindness and a genuine desire to see others succeed.

He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Omoyibo, asking for good health, long life, divine protection and greater prosperity for him, his family and his business interests.

“I sincerely appreciate this rare and unforgettable gesture. Your kindness will forever remain etched in my heart, and I will always cherish your friendship, generosity and goodwill,” Igorigo said.

He also prayed for the continued growth and success of Danmotech Nigeria Limited and Dantinajo Hotel & Resorts, expressing confidence that God would reward Omoyibo abundantly for his benevolence.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel Congratulates Friday Warri, Godwin Ogorugba on Successful Two Years in Office

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Chairmen of Isoko North and South Local Government Councils, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba and Comrade Friday Warri on the occasion of their 2nd year anniversary in office.

In a congratulatory message signed by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel Chairman, Comrade Michael Ilaya and the Secretary Comrade Matthew Unyove commended both Chairmen for their developmental strides across the various communities in their. respective Local Governments with the view of bringing dividends of Democracy to the people at the grassroot.

The congratulatory message also noted that, Hon Ogorugba and Comrade Warri have keyed into the M O R E Agenda of His Excellency Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State and in alignment with the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in bringing development closer to the people.

The NUJ, Isoko Chapel leadership also expressed optimism that the remaining one year in their administration would usher in more development to the Council Areas.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, further reassured the Chairmen of their unflinching collaboration with the Councils in promoting their policies and programmes to the general public.

Apex lsoko Youth Body Issues 72-Hour Ultimatum to Heritage Energy Over Oil Spillage in Uzere

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Eriques Warri

The umbrella body representing Isoko ethnic youths, the Isoko Development Union Youth Wing (IDUYW) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited over the reported oil spill at Wellhead 14 in Uzere Cluster 9, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to the Youth body, the company must immediately take decisive steps to contain the spill, commence environmental remediation, and address the concerns of the affected communities within the stipulated period.

The President of the Isoko Development Union Youth Wing Worldwide, Comr Joel Emeni, warned that failure by Heritage Energy to respond satisfactorily within 72 hours would compel the youth body to mobilize for the shutdown of all Heritage Energy operational facilities across Isoko land.

The President strongly condemned the connivance between Heritage Energy and some security personnel to conceal the true extent of the oil spill instead of ensuring transparency and prompt intervention.

He stated that such actions undermine public confidence and further endanger the livelihoods, farmlands, rivers, and environment of the affected communities.

He therefore called on Heritage Energy, relevant regulatory agencies, and security authorities not to only act swiftly in the interest of the people by addressing the spill, but also carry out a transparent Joint Investigation Visit (JIV), to ensure adequate environmental cleanup and compensation where necessary.

The Isoko Development Union Youth Wing reiterated its commitment to protecting the environment and the welfare of Isoko communities, stressing that it would deploy all lawful means to ensure that companies operating in the area are held accountable for their environmental responsibilities.

G.R.A.P Known As ‘Purpose Driven’ Felicitates With Isoko South Council Chairman On His Two Years Anniversary

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

A group under the aegis of G.R.A.P led by  Comrade Gabriel Oruaigho, Dr. (Chief) Ralf Uzezi Onowotu, Deacon Augustine Obogho Idi and Comrade Patrick Oletu popularly known as ‘Purpose Driven’ has felicitated with Isoko South Local Government Council Chairman Hon. Warri Friday Ovoke on his two years anniversary.

The group in a statement made available to newsmen, described Hon. Warri Friday Ovoke two years in office as transformational, pragmatic, prudent and purposeful that has ensure the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s government get to the grassroots in Isoko South.

“We can attest to your brilliant ideas and contributions in a bid to foster the MORE Agenda for all Isoko South residents, through tireless and selfless effort, your extraordinary impact is very loud”.

The group also enumerated the achievements of Hon. Warri led Isoko South Local Government Council, according to them, when he assumed office on July 15, 2024, his administration focused on addressing critical developmental needs across the communities while laying the foundation for sustainable grassroots governance.

The group added that, projects completed by the council chairman are the rehabilitation of failed sections of the Oyede-Irri Road, emergency repairs on the Oleh-Emede-Olomoro-Otor-Iyede corridor and the Idheze-Irri back road, as well as the construction of an extensive drainage system and resurfacing of failed sections of Ogbemudia Road in Oleh to improve access for residents, farmers and traders.

The group further said “The administration also renovated the official residences of the Council Chairman, the Head of Personnel Management and the Secretary to the Local Government, including the building of an ultra-modern administrative block in the council secretariat with a modern gatehouse and improved security infrastructure.

They also stated that, in a bid to stimulate local commerce, the council rehabilitated the Olomoro and Idheze-Irri markets, providing modern stalls and lock-up shops for traders.

They also emphasized that, several projects are also ongoing,, an administrative staff block at Enhwe Comprehensive High School, Enhwe and a modern police station in Okpolo-Enhwe aimed at strengthening security in the area.

The group opined that, projects executed over the past two years have contributed to improved service delivery and strengthened confidence in grassroots governance, although several major projects remain under construction.

The group stressed that, with rising expectations ahead of the second half of his tenure, attention is expected to shift to the completion of ongoing projects and the consolidation of development efforts across the local government.

“It is our prayer that on this special day of your two years anniversary celebration, may God Almighty continue to grant you wisdom and sound mind”, the group stated.

Ogorugba Highlights Achievements as Isoko North Council Marks Two Years of GODWIN Agenda

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has highlighted the achievements of his administration under the “GODWIN Agenda”, saying the policy framework is driving development, improved welfare, inclusiveness and grassroots governance across the council area.

Speaking as his administration marked two years in office, Ogorugba said the agenda was designed to complement Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda by delivering people-oriented governance and accelerating development in Isoko North.

According to him, the acronym “GODWIN” represents Government for the People, Opportunity for Growth, Development, Welfare, Inclusiveness and New Ideas, principles he said have guided his administration since assuming office on July 15, 2024.

He said his administration has prioritised peace and security, regular engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders and security agencies, stressing that development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

The council chairman noted that the improved security situation has helped attract major investments and development projects to the area, including the upgrade of the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, to Southern Delta University, the establishment of the College of Health Technology, Ovrode, the completion of the Ozoro Modern Market and the construction of the Emevor-Orogun Road.

He also cited the commencement of oil exploration activities by Sterling Global Plc in parts of Isoko North, increased local participation in Tantita Security Services, the establishment of new private businesses and the digital skills training and empowerment of over 100 youths as evidence of growing economic opportunities in the council.

On infrastructure, Ogorugba listed the construction of a new administrative complex for the council, perimeter fencing of the secretariat, rehabilitation of internal roads, construction of a staff clinic, renovation of community markets, rehabilitation of roads in several communities, construction of classroom blocks, provision of nursing quarters, rehabilitation of water projects and ongoing work on the Otor-Igho Cottage Hospital among projects executed across the 13 wards of the local government.

The chairman said his administration has also placed strong emphasis on workers’ welfare through the prompt payment of salaries, settlement of arrears and gratuities, as well as the conversion of casual workers into the Delta State Local Government Service Commission.

He added that his administration’s open-door policy has strengthened community participation through the engagement of over 200 political aides who provide regular feedback on security, political and community issues.

In the education sector, Ogorugba said the council introduced the free distribution of school bags, notebooks, sandals and other learning materials to pupils in all 43 public primary schools in the local government.

He added that the administration also sponsored free Primary Six registration for pupils and commenced the distribution of soya milk to children between the ages of one and eight to improve nutrition.

The chairman expressed optimism that the achievements recorded so far would provide a solid foundation for greater development in the years ahead, reaffirming his commitment to delivering people-centred governance and sustaining the developmental momentum in Isoko North Local Government Area.

Osume Applauds Security Agencies Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo School Children, Teachers, Charges Govt to Honour Slain Teacher, Oyedokun

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

The Executive Director of Nathan Osume Foundation and Senatorial candidate of the National Democratic Party for Delta Central Senatorial seat in upcoming 2027 elections, Mr. Nathan Esiri Osume has applauded the Nigerian security agencies for the successful rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who were kidnapped by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of the state and held captive for 57 days.

Osume described their safe return as a moment of relief for Nigerians, even as he charged the Nigerian government to strengthen the country’s security architecture to ensure the lives of citizens are protected as guaranteed by the 1999 constitution (as ammended).

According to Osume, amid the momentum of celebration across the country, the persistent threat of school abductions serves as a critical indicator that nationwide security measures must be urgently enhanced.

“The recurring incidents of kidnapping, particularly of schoolchildren, highlights the urgent need to overhaul the nation’s security system and prioritize public safety as the government’s primary obligation,” he stated.

Osume added, “Our children deserve to learn in an atmosphere of safety, not fear. We must continue to work towards building a Nigeria where every child can pursue education without the threat of violence or abduction.”

Osume shared in the joy of the pupils, their families, schools, and the nation. At the same time, he extended his deepest condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher who was killed, praising his immense courage and ultimate sacrifice.
He urged both the Oyo State and Federal governments not to let the deceased’s sacrifice go unnoticed, but rather to honour his memory in the most fitting way possible.

Recall that on May 15, 2026, 46 students and teachers were abducted from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The incident sparked widespread public outrage, triggering urgent nationwide demands for the Nigerian government and security forces to rescue the victims from their captors.

Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel Hails Onowakpo Over Assent to Federal Medical Centre, Oleh Act

By
Isoko Nation News
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The Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended Senator Joel Onowakpo over this week’s Presidential assent to the Act establishing the Federal Medical Centre,Oleh.

In the commendation letter signed by the Chapel leader, Comrade Emmanuel Ekebe, Chairman, Comrade Michael Ilaya and Secretary, Comrade Matthew Unyove, the Union commended the effort of the Senator for pursuing this noble course to its logical conclusion.

The letter stated further that “we salute your doggedness and total commitment to ensure that at last, Isoko land is getting true federal presence outside Police stations and Post offices”‘

According to the Union, “we are proud of your sterling impact and the way and manner you have conducted yourself in and outside the red Chambers”

The Journalists however enjoined the Senator to “do close marking to ensure that the significant signing is monitored to manifest physically just like Senator Ovie Omo-Agege did both for the Federal Polytechnic, Orogun and the University of Health Sciences , Kwale.

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