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Joel-Onowakpo Scores Landmark Victory As Tinubu Signs FMC Oleh Bill

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law the Federal Medical Centre, Oleh Establishment Bill, marking a historic breakthrough for healthcare delivery in Delta South Senatorial District.

The bill, sponsored by the Senator representing Delta South, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, provides for the establishment of the first Federal Medical Centre in the senatorial district, ending decades without a federal tertiary health institution in the oil-producing region.

Reacting to the development, Joel-Onowakpo described the President’s assent as a landmark victory for the people of Delta South and a major step towards correcting the longstanding imbalance in access to quality healthcare.

The lawmaker expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for what he described as visionary and responsive leadership, noting that the new medical centre would bring specialised healthcare closer to millions of residents and serve as a beacon of hope for communities that have endured the consequences of decades of crude oil exploration.

“For far too long, communities that have borne the brunt of crude oil exploration have endured inadequate access to quality healthcare. This Federal Medical Centre will deliver world-class medical services to our people and contribute meaningfully to their well-being and prosperity,” he said.

Joel-Onowakpo also commended the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin; Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele; and members of the National Assembly for their support in securing the passage of the landmark legislation.

He equally thanked High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and Mr. Matthew Tonlagha for their encouragement and support towards the realisation of the project.

Congratulating his constituents, the Senator said the establishment of FMC Oleh signalled a new dawn for Delta South, stressing that the era of marginalisation was steadily giving way to purposeful representation and inclusive development.

“This achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished through purposeful representation, unity of purpose and responsive governance. We remain committed to attracting more transformative projects that will redefine the future of Delta South,” Joel-Onowakpo said.

The presidential assent to the Federal Medical Centre, Oleh Establishment Act further strengthens Joel-Onowakpo’s growing record of legislative accomplishments, coming on the heels of President Tinubu’s earlier assent to the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko Establishment Act—another landmark legislation championed and facilitated by the Delta South Senator.

Kpokpogri Celebrates Okowa at 67, Commends His Legacy of Service and Leadership

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Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya 

Comrade Prince Kpokpogri has congratulated the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, on the occasion of his 67th birth anniversary, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose contributions to the development of Delta State and Nigeria remain remarkable.

In a goodwill message issued on the occasion of the former governor’s birthday, Kpokpogri said Okowa’s life has been defined by selfless service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of the state and the nation.

He noted that Okowa’s administration was marked by visionary leadership, impactful governance, and people-centred policies that transformed lives, strengthened public institutions, and laid a solid foundation for sustainable development across Delta State.

According to him, the former governor’s record in public service continues to inspire many Nigerians, particularly young people who regard him as a model of purposeful, compassionate, and exemplary leadership.

Kpokpogri joined members of Okowa’s family, political associates, friends, and supporters in celebrating the former governor on his birthday, thanking God for preserving his life and granting him the opportunity to continue serving humanity.

He prayed that God would bless the former governor with many more years of good health, divine wisdom, renewed strength, and enduring peace to enable him to continue making meaningful contributions to the growth and development of Delta State and Nigeria.

“Happy 67th Birthday, Your Excellency. May your new age usher in greater accomplishments, joy, and fulfillment,” Kpokpogri stated, while wishing the former governor continued success in his future endeavours.

Ovie of Aviara Honours Engr. Ukoh, Wife With Chieftaincy Titles of ‘Ogbaviroro’ and  ‘Ewomazino’ 

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Chief Executive Officer of Oromena Investment Nigeria Limited, Engr. Emmanuel Ejiromebe Ukoh and his wife Mrs. Faustina Emmanuel Ukoh was last Saturday conferred with Chieftaincy titles of Ogbaviroro and Ewomazino of Aviara Kingdom, respectively, by HRM Michael Efeareduo Ebobo Imoh 1.

Engr. Ukoh  who is an illustrious son of Iyede Kingdom with an extensive background in marine engineering,  is a well-known philanthropist, and business stakeholder in close partnership with local governance initiatives.

He also serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Oromena Investment Limited with vast background experience in marine engineering.

Speaking to newsmen after the Chieftaincy conferment, Engr. Emmanuel Ukoh said, “I am highly elated and honoured to be conferred with the chieftaincy title of ‘Ogbaviroro’ and my wife with ‘Ewomazino’ of Aviara Kingdom by the Aviara Monarch, HRM Michael Efeareduo Ebobo Imoh 1”.

According to him, “With a deep sense of humility, and profound gratitude. I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious title from our revered Monarch, I do not take this recognition for granted. I and my wife accept this title not just as a symbol of honour but as a call to greater service.

Speaking further, he added that, “Chieftaincy title come with significant responsibilities, we will collaborate with other chiefs of the Kingdom to dedicate our resources and time to the growth, peace, and unity of the Kingdom”.

He also recognized that the achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of his family, friends, and well wishers who had continuously believed in him, adding that “This honour is as much yours as it is mine. I seek your continuous prayers,” he stated.

The event which took place at the palace of the Ovie of Aviara Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State was well attended by family, friends, and well wishes of the celebrants.

Dignitaries present during the event were  Isoko North Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba, Dr. Chief Ralf Onowotu, The secretary to the Isoko South Local Government Council, Hon. Zino Osuofa, Chief Alfred Onowotu, and Deacon Augustine Idi,

Others are Hon. Charles Ubiku, Mr. Justus Ewonode, Mr. Collins Owenenwenu, (MD Mancollins), Comrade Joshua Alebe Supervisory for Environment, Comrade Jacob Oloku, and Comrade Jude Ogwologho amongst others.

MFN, PPJ, NDWPD Train Stakeholders on Strategies to Enhance Protection for Residents in Ozoro Kingdom

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Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Male Feminist Network (MFN) in collaboration with Priests Assembly Peace and Social Justice lnitiative (PPJ), and Noble Delta Women for peace and development (NDWPD) on Thursday 2 July, organised a one-day training for various stakeholders to strengthen protection for women and girls of Ozoro Kingdom against all forms of violence.

Speaking at the training, tagged: “Building Safer Cultural Spaces: Community Accountability, Safeguarding and Protection of Women And Girls in Ozoro Kingdom,” the Coordinator of MFN South-South Nigeria, Pst. Edewor Egedegbe Charged the stakeholders to show more commitment and be actively involved in safeguarding and protecting women, men and girls in their communities.

Egedegbe said, “This training initiative reflects shared commitment to create communities where women and girls can live freely without being subjected to violence, abuse, discrimination and harmful cultural practices.”

He said, “Ending sexual based violence is not the responsibility of government alone, it requires the collective action of traditional institutions, community leaders, men, women, young people, faith-based organizations, and the law enforcement agencies.”

The MFN South-South coordinator encouraged the stakeholders to collaborate with MFN to create a safe and peaceful society that protects human rights, and offers equal opportunities for all.

“As men, we are implored to become active allies to dismantle harmful gender and cultural norms, promote positive masculinity, and foster safe communities for all,” he stated.

Continuing, Egedegbe encourage the participants to actively participate in the training, discussion sessions, and commit to translating the knowledge they have gained into actions in their communities.

In their separate remarks, the representatives of Isoko North Council Chairman, the Area Command Ozoro, the Queen of Ozoro Kingdom, and the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, commended the organisers for the training, pledging support to ensure that Ozoro Kingdom is safe and protected from all forms of violence.

The team of trainers, Mrs Jennifer Okotie, Mr Alex Okekporo, and Dr. Mrs. Ejiro Otive-Igbuzor, enjoined stakeholders to be frontal in promoting safe communities where the rights of all are protected from all forms of violations.

The highpoint of the training was presentation of group work by the participants, who were subsequently inducted as SBV and Safeguard-Ambassadors.

POLITICAL DISCUSS-2027/2031: Isoko on Your Marks!

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe

As all the political parties have ended their primaries in line with the latest electoral guidelines, the warm up for campaigns towards the 2027 elections is gathering momentum.

Also very much in the cards is the intertwined intrigues and schemes not only to clinch the prices next year but equally combined permutations for 2031 in tow.

Both the short and long term forecasts and tradeoffs are nonetheless political roadmaps playing out as orchestrated by the gladiators in their various collective covens.

The turf is dynamically fluid just as the constituents are helplessly gapping at the unfolding drama with awe and weary anticipation within and beyond the political/ ethical divide.

For strategic and exigent reasons, not every bit of the log can and be put in print; but suffice to say that it is expedient that the Isoko Nation urgently puts our acts together for us to reign into safety the black goat before night fall.

In effect, the time for the Isoko race to change the narrative is now to engrave, vigourate and establish unequivocally our right and legitimate claim with all the vehemence and velocity so defined as it concerns the governorship seat come 2031.

Frankly, the reality staring at us is obvious that unless we rise to the situation speedily, many things may elude us including the governorship seat come even from 2027.

Given the prevailing zoning arrangement in the state, our only fellow contender for Osadebey House, Asaba in the next dispensation is our Ijaw brothers since the Itsekiris have had their turn.

Ordinarily, our Ijaw kindreds should have allowed Isoko to pick the slot having gotten a fair chunk of juicy and ranking political positions over time.These include Deputy Governor, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Senator, minister, etc.

But as politicians will always say; ” power is taken, not given”. It thus behoves on the Isoko frontline politicians and the IDU to up the game and drive the process to fruition.

We have a daunting task, no doubt but I’m convinced that it is do-able if we can jettison selfishness and clannish interest and rather pursue an Isoko Agenda.

On this note, we expect personalities like General Ogomudia, AIG Felix Ogbaudu(rtd), Chiefs Eta Enahoro, Iduh Amadhe, Ovuozorie Macaulay, Hon. Leo Ogoh, Prince Johnson Erijo, Senator Joel Onowakpor, Daniel Omoyibo, Immanuel Omoefe, Askia Ogie, Weleys, Prince Sam Ogri and Senator Stella Omu amongst others to close ranks with other prominent Isoko patriots and phantom out a potent road map towards achieving this life time dream.

Let’s make no mistake, I call it ‘life time ‘ because, unless we get it right this time, none of us above 35 now will be alive or relevant in the next 32 years when it could be another turn for Delta South if Jesus has not returned.

Just to add that if we deploy the same vigour that is being deployed into the “Isoko Need Light” Campaign into the ‘Isoko for Governor, 2031’ mantra, something must surely manifest.

But a note of warning here!

All those that will be paid to sabotage the movement or act as clogs should better retrace their steps.

Even when they boast that political money does not answer to ancestral curses or sanctions, nemesis and karma are still very much alive, effective and trailing our shadows towards the day of reckoning!

Conclusively, let those who have ears hear; don’t be the spoiler but do the needful for Isoko to take it’s pride of place in our life time.

Let Isoko be great again!

DSIEC Chairman Jerry Agbaike Honoured as NIPSS Integrity Ambassador

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter

The Chairman of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), Sir Dr. Jerry Agbaike, has been conferred with the prestigious NIPSS Integrity Ambassador certification by the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in recognition of his exemplary leadership, integrity and contributions to public service.

The honour followed a rigorous screening and selection process by the institute, which identified top-level leaders and managers who have demonstrated exceptional integrity and left enduring legacies through their conduct, leadership and service over an extended period.

A Fellow of several professional bodies, Agbaike holds a Doctoral Degree in Political Science and has attended numerous leadership and management programmes in Nigeria and abroad, including courses at Manchester Business School, Harvard Business School, Victoria University and University at Buffalo.

Agbaike served in the Delta State Public Service for 34 years, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary. He retired after serving 11 years in that capacity before his appointment as Chairman of DSIEC by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

In addition to leading DSIEC, Agbaike serves as the National Vice-Chairman of the Forum of Chairmen of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria, where he has continued to contribute to strengthening electoral administration across the country.

Under his leadership, DSIEC successfully conducted the 2024 Delta State Local Government Elections, widely adjudged to be credible, transparent, free, fair, inclusive and peaceful.

Agbaike has also earned widespread recognition as an impartial electoral umpire whose leadership has inspired public confidence in the electoral process, promoted inclusivity and equity, encouraged voter education and broadened democratic participation while strengthening grassroots democratic institutions across Delta State.

LAND DISPUTE: Delta Court Sentences 2: Abednego Onoshoko, Friday Meeting to 3 years in Prison With Option of Fine

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

The Delta State Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting at Oleh has sentenced Friday Meeting and Abednego Onoshoko, aka “Abobe”, both of Enhwe town in Isoko South Local Government Area, to 3 years in prison with hard labour recently with an option of fine of N50,000 each to be paid to Delta State Government together with the payment of N480, 000 for destroyed blocks over land dispute between them and Mr. Idisi Ewomazino.

The defendants were arraigned on a 4 count charge in suit No. MCO/67C/2024 bordering on Conspiracy, an offence punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Cap C21, Vol. 1 Laws of Delta State, Nigeria, 2006; Malicious damage of 1,600 blocks, an offence punishable under Section 451 of the Criminal Code Law Cap C21, Vol.1 Laws of Delta State, Nigeria, 2006; Breach of peace by entering a land which is in peaceable possession of Mr. Idisi Ewomazino, an offence punishable under Section 81 of the Criminal Code Law Cap C21 Vol. 1 Laws of Delta State, Nigeria, 2006 and Obstruction of justice, an offence punishable under Section 120(2) of the Criminal Code Law Cap C21 Vol.1 of Delta State, Nigeria, 2006.

The defendants however pleaded not guilty to the four count change, and called three other witnesses other than themselves in proof of their case.

The defendants, Friday Meeting and Abednego Onoshoko were however sentenced on February 24, 2026 by a Court Presided over by Her Worship O.M Omonemu (Mrs).

At the end of the trial, Her Worship O. M Omonemu (Mrs) stated in her judgement that “from the totality of the evidence before me, the prosecution has been able to prove it’s case beyond reasonable doubt and are entitled to a conviction in count 1, count 11, count 111, and count 1V while finding the 1st and 2nd defendants guilty” .

However, Counsel to the defendants after the judgement urged the court to be lenient, upon which the Presiding Magistrate in her pronouncement however stated that the 1st and 2nd defendants being first time offenders  pay to the complainant PW1 the sum of N480,000 for the destroyed blocks and N50,000 each to be paid as fines to the Delta State Government reasoning or to spend 3 years in prison with hard labour.

Johnny Hails Tinubu, Oborevwori for Resolving Warri Delineation Crisis

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

A prominent Ijaw leader and stakeholder in the Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Michael Johnny, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for their interventions in resolving the contentious ward delineation issues in Warri Federal Constituency.

Speaking at a world press conference on Tuesday, Johnny expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for facilitating dialogue among the three major ethnic nationalities in the area, the Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri and for promoting peace following the Supreme Court judgment and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) delineation exercise.

He also praised Governor Oborevwori for convening peace meetings aimed at fostering unity and understanding among the ethnic groups in Warri, describing the governor as a grassroots leader who appreciates the importance of peaceful coexistence for development.

Johnny commended the Olu of Warri for recent efforts to strengthen ties with neighbouring kingdoms, describing the move as a significant step toward reconciliation and harmony among the people of the region.

According to him, the people of Warri have embraced peace and are more concerned about addressing poverty, underdevelopment and other socio-economic challenges than engaging in ethnic conflicts.

“Our problem is not among ourselves. Our challenge is poverty and underdevelopment. That is what we should all be confronting together,” he said.

The Ijaw leader, however, expressed concern over statements allegedly made by former Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ayiri Emami, which he claimed were capable of heightening tensions in the area. He urged security agencies, including the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Navy and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to remain vigilant and prevent any attempt to disrupt the peace currently being enjoyed in the region.

Johnny maintained that stakeholders from the three ethnic groups had accepted resolutions reached during consultations facilitated by the President and relevant authorities, adding that representatives of the ethnic nationalities subsequently drafted and submitted a report reflecting the consensus reached.

He explained that the resolutions were aimed at ensuring peace and enabling the electoral process in the Warri Federal Constituency to proceed without hindrance.

According to him, political stakeholders are already preparing for the next phase of electoral activities as directed by INEC, expressing confidence that the peaceful atmosphere created by the interventions of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori would encourage greater participation in the democratic process.

Johnny said the people of the area remain appreciative of the President’s efforts in restoring peace and pledged their continued support for initiatives that promote stability, economic growth and national development.

He called on traditional rulers across the region to continue working together and guiding their subjects towards peaceful coexistence, stressing that no community benefits from violence and conflict.

“The traditional rulers must continue to preach peace and unity. We all have a responsibility to ensure that Warri remains peaceful and that development thrives in our communities,” he said.

Reaffirming the commitment of the Ijaw people to peace, Johnny urged all stakeholders to respect the agreements reached and support ongoing efforts to sustain harmony in Warri Federal Constituency and the wider Niger Delta region.

The Error of Not Replacing Dead Councillors

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe

Early this year, I had in a piece on the need to replace elected Councilors in Delta state who had passed on within a year or less into their 3 year mandate.

I had adduced salient reasons why bye election should be conducted to replace the departed ward representatives.

These had included reenacting a voice for the bereaved Wards, filling a vacuum as well as flagging the respective wards within and beyond the legislative Chambers amongst others.

However, as time went by without response from either the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) and the Delta State government, we had to do a fact check as to why the lacuna had persisted.

It was then discovered that the state government had allegedly “directed that rather than conduct fresh election to replace the late Councilors, their emoluments should be paid to their spouses”.

This, according to impeccable sources was to assuage the challenges arising from the untimely demise of their breadwinners and to also possibly prevent whatever rancour that may be generated from the process of electing replacements.

Incidentally, as noble as this might appear, it is wrong. It is both unconstitutional and conflicting.

In addition to being illegal, we also have instances where dependants of the fallen Councilors have been deprived of the accruable benefits as some “fast fingers” in the system have either misappropriated or diverted the funds for personal use.

What inhumanity to another being where people brazingly steal from the dead without qualms!

Actually, the intent to give succour to the dependants may be worthwhile and humane, but the law is not emotions.

No matter the depth or height, nothing overrides the provisions of the constitution or laws of the land.

The right thing to do in the heart rendering circumstances as we have, is to provide pensionable employment for the bereaved spouse if not employed or provide grants for them to ply a trade.

Also, the deceased’s children or dependants can be placed on scholarship to complete their education to a specified level .

Clearly, apart from the illegality of paying presumed earnings and not gratuity or insurance benefits to the survivors, coupled with the deliberate action of not replacing them over a year after their demise is a disservice to the affected Wards.

There’s no doubt that we all feel the loss of these dear ones but the reality on ground must be taken wholistically .

This is further expedient given the fact that the current local government councils still have a full year to go and to continuously deny those wards from being represented in their respective legislative Chambers is quite unfair and unconstitutional.

After all, INEC is by this weekend conducting a bye election in Rivers state to replace a Senator representing Rivers East who passed on early this year.

Meanwhile, we demand that whosoever that has taken a dime belonging or allocated to the benefitiaries of any dead Councilor should quietly cough out same within the next two weeks to avoid the launching of full scale investigation to expose all persons involved in the shameful act.

Finally, it is expedient that before we call out the Civil Society Organizations and other concerned Deltans to do the dragging, let DSIEC and the Delta State government do the needful promptly.

Siakpere Congratulates Oborevwori at 63

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Our Reporter 

The Director-General of Team Siakpere for Oborevwori, Mr. John Siakpere, JP, Esq., has felicitated the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to the development of Delta State continues to inspire confidence among the people.

Siakpere, an Aghalokpe-born United Kingdom-based businessman and grassroots political mobiliser, said Governor Oborevwori’s life and leadership have been marked by humility, dedication to public service, and an unwavering passion for the progress and prosperity of Delta State.

In a congratulatory message made available to journalists, the Team Siakpere for Oborevwori Director-General commended the governor for his purposeful leadership and people-centred governance, noting that his administration has continued to deliver tangible dividends of democracy across the state through the MORE Agenda.

According to him, Governor Oborevwori has distinguished himself through his commitment to infrastructure development, economic growth, peace, and inclusive governance, earning the admiration and support of Deltans at home and in the diaspora.

“Your Excellency, as you celebrate your 63rd birthday, we join millions of Deltans in thanking God for your life, good health, wisdom, and exemplary leadership. Your dedication to the welfare of the people and the development of our state remains commendable,” Siakpere stated.

He noted that the governor’s leadership style has fostered unity, strengthened public confidence in government, and created opportunities for sustainable growth across various sectors of the state’s economy.

Siakpere prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength, and protection upon Governor Oborevwori as he continues to steer the affairs of Delta State, expressing confidence that his leadership would usher in greater progress and prosperity for the people.

He reaffirmed the unwavering support of Team Siakpere for Oborevwori and pledged continued grassroots mobilisation in support of the governor’s vision for a stronger and more prosperous Delta State.

“On behalf of Team Siakpere for Oborevwori, I heartily congratulate our amiable Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on his 63rd birthday. May God grant you many more years of good health, wisdom, and impactful service to Delta State and humanity,” he added.

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