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ISOKO MATCH TO 2027, 2031: Removing the Mirage

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Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe 

In the mid 90s, there was this frenzy and hype as the world moved towards the turn of the century into the new millenium. Year 2000 was then like the magic year where things would drastically change.

It was as if some metaphysicians had uncovered a mystic El dorado yoked to that date.

To increase the palpable apprehension then, computers were predicted to be heading for a crash and other funny forecasts that thronged the public space back then.

Well, the millenium is midway into the third decade and humanity did not crash nor the pervading inequality, injustice and lack of equity taken a new turn especially in this part of the world. A true Mirage it was in reality.

Therefore, as the nation approaches the 2027 election and groundswell for 2031, the Isoko nation’s seemingly placid, disjointed and apparently uncoordinated stance in the emerging political permutations and alignments is a source of serious concern to rational Isoko people.

The scaring Mirage must be removed.
It is often said that the best time to rein-in a black goat is before night fall. And it is only the wise who should proactively know when to strike a hot iron.

Do we still have visionary and selfless statesmen with dexterity like Ekpre Otobo, Isaac Ikime, Efeturi and others of blessed memories who stood firm to liberate and unveiled the Isoko latent potentials?

Perhaps for the umpteenth time, let it be known that unless we put our acts together and birth a common formidable front to drive this rare opportunity in our generation, placing the ISOKO flag at Government House Asaba will be most challenging.

Please let’s be conscious that unless we show absolute commitment and focus, no one will be there to help us paddle our cross.

But one thing is sure, should we fail, history and indeed humanity will not forgive us because, the time is not only ripe but the odds are also greatly in our favour.

It is real, so close and most achievable even in the midst of the overt and covert sell outs who will also inevitably get their pay day at their appointed time.

The price is worthy no doubt and we have potent legs to put forward to wrestle the trophy home.

Candidly, we can put forward a credible list of Joel Onowakpo, Ovuozorie Macauley, Immanuel Omoefe ( Okpugo) Lord Mayor Pius Malaka, Eta Enahoro, Prince Sam Ogri and Prince Johnson Erijo among others.

In like manner, blessed Business magnates including Weleys, Danmotech, Unini, Mathew Ofe and others should reach into their vaults to oil the wheels in accentuating the Isoko for Governor process seamlessly.

It is time to put our past individual differences, interests and political sores aside because it is the best chance ever.

We can do it !
God bless all those who will make the lofty dream a reality. Isoko must be great!

Go Tough on Criminals, Oborevwori Charges New Commissioner of Police

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute any individual found in possession of firearms or attempting to disrupt peace in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor gave the directive on Tuesday while receiving the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command, CP Aina Adesola, and his management team during a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.

Governor Oborevwori described the posting of CP Adesola to Delta State as a homecoming, noting that the police chief was well acquainted with the state, having previously served in key operational positions within the command.

He said the relative peace currently enjoyed across the state was a reflection of the collaboration between the police and other security agencies, adding that the new Commissioner has displayed experience, professionalism and deep understanding of the terrain.

“I am very happy that you are here because you know this terrain very well. You have served here before and we saw your impact. For the few weeks you have been here as Commissioner of Police, Delta State has remained peaceful, and we are proud of your achievements,” the governor said.

Recalling the security situation prior to 2023, Governor Oborevwori noted that the open display of firearms by youths and criminals was once prevalent but had since been decisively curtailed.

He declared that such acts would no longer be tolerated in the state. “Before now, people brandished firearms openly and caused fear. Since 2023, that has stopped, and it will never happen again in Delta State,” he assured.

The governor commended senior officers within the command for their dedication and professionalism, singling out ACP Aliyu Shaba and the former Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, for their outstanding roles in tackling gun violence in previously volatile areas of the state.

As the state approaches another election cycle, Governor Oborevwori charged the police command to remain firm and proactive, stressing that anyone found in possession of firearms or attempting to breach the peace must face the full weight of the law.

“We will not tolerate insecurity in this state. Anyone caught with firearms or attempting to disrupt peace must be arrested and prosecuted,” he insisted.

He urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information, describing security as a collective responsibility.

According to him, peace is directly linked to development and economic growth, noting that investors can only be attracted to a secure environment.

Oborevwori said; “Peace gives room for development. Without peace, investors will not come. That is why Delta State remains open for business”.

Earlier, CP Aina Adesola thanked the governor for the warm reception and assured him of the command’s commitment to sustaining peace and security across Delta State.

He pledged that under his leadership, residents would continue to sleep with their two eyes closed, as the police would work tirelessly to ensure lasting peace in the state.

INPLM Urges Engr. Ashakah to Seek Isoko North Constituency Seat in the DTHA Come 2027

By
Isoko Nation News
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 By Mike Ilaya

A renowned Socio-Political pressure group, the lsoko-Nation Progressive Like-Minds (INPLM), has called on Engineer Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazomaro to step forward and context for the Isoko North House of Assembly seat in the Delta State House of Assembly, ahead of the next general elections.

In an official release by the  group, the President of INPLM, Comrade Ilaya Efemena Beckly, stated that at a critical moments in history, communities are often confronted with defining choices, choices that determine whether progress is delayed or destiny is reclaimed.

He added that for Isoko North Constituency, that moment is gradually approaching, and voices across the land are calling not for noise, but for purposeful, people-centered leadership.

The President stated that “It is in this spirit that INPLM, as a socio-political pressure group in Isoko Nation, respectfully and passionately calls on Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro to consider offering himself for service as a candidate for the Delta State House of Assembly seat, Isoko North Constituency, come 2027″.

They described Engr. Ashakah as a professional with proven leadership experience and a track record of supporting community development, youth empowerment, and social stability, and has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is measured by impact, not title, adding that his contributions to education, community welfare, and peace-building efforts have earned him respect beyond political lines”.

According to INPLM, “This call is not born out of sentiment or personal ambition, but from a deep and collective desire for total liberation through effective representation. Over the years, Isoko North has yearned for leadership that combines capacity with compassion, influence with integrity, and vision with action. Many believe that Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro embodies these qualities”.

The group further stressed that Isoko North can no longer afford representation that is self-centered, distant from the people or disconnected from their everyday realities.

“What Isoko North constituency needs is a representative who understands the grassroots, listens to the people, and has the courage to speak and act decisively on their behalf at the legislative level”

Continuing, the INPLM President, on behalf of the group, noted that “this is a call to service, not a declaration of entitlement. Isoko North deserves leadership that will prioritize development, inclusion, and accountability. We believe Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro has the capacity and moral standing to offer such leadership if he chooses to answer this call.”

The group through the President also stated that “The call by INPLM also reflects a growing political consciousness among the people of Isoko North, one that emphasizes competence over convenience and service over symbolism. It is a reminder that political office should be occupied by individuals who are ready to be accountable, accessible, and intentional in delivering dividends of democracy.

“As 2027 draws nearer, this appeal stands as a respectful invitation to reflection, dialogue, and decision. Should Engr. Ashakah Orobosa Uzuazormaro heed this call, many believe it could mark the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by liberation through legislation, development through dedication, and progress through unity.

“For INPLM and many concerned citizens, the message is clear. Isoko North is ready for leadership that works for the people and with the people”.

Ozoro Youth Assembly Appreciates, Celebrates Engr. Ashaka for Outstanding leadership, Selfless Service, Uncommon Commitment to the Growth of Isoko Land

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya 

The Ozoro Youth Assembly has recently appreciated and celebrated Engr. Ashaka Orobosa Uzuazomaro for his outstanding leadership, selfless service, and uncommon commitment to the growth of Isoko land.

Describing him as a Pilar of hope to the youth, the President of Ozoro Youth Assembly, Comr. Ogbu Marvis Omanudhowho (aka Ogwagwo1), emphasized that Engr. Ashaka has remained a pillar of hope to the youths, continuously standing for them and lifting many young people through empowerment, mentorship, and opportunities that are changing lives for the better, saying “Your passion for youth development has given many of us renewed confidence in the future”.

The commendation contained in an official release signed by Comr. Ogbu, the Ozoro Youth Assembly President stated that “Beyond the youths, your kindness and compassion toward our elderly fathers and mothers, through support, care, and empowerment, have brought dignity and relief to many homes. You have proven that true leadership is about touching lives and serving humanity”.

“Sir, your works speak louder than words. You are a leader with a heart for the people, and Isoko Nation is truly blessed to have you”.

“We, the youths of Ozoro, are proud of you and stand firmly with you as you continue to serve with excellence, integrity, and dedication’.

“May God Almighty continue to strengthen you, protect you, and grant you greater wisdom to do even more for our people”.

Oritsemami Obioru Charges Warri, Delta Youths to Obtain PVCs as INEC Begins Second Phase of Voters Registration

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Public affairs analyst and 2027 House of Representatives hopeful for Warri Federal Constituency, Mr. Oritsemami Obioru, has called on eligible citizens, particularly young people—across Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South West, as well as the wider Delta State, to actively participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr. Obioru made the call while addressing journalists in Warri, emphasizing that voter registration remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s democratic process and the most effective means for citizens to secure their civic rights and influence governance.

According to him, the second phase of INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration exercise, which commenced in January 2026, presents a critical opportunity for eligible Nigerians, especially youths who have attained the age of eighteen, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and take ownership of the democratic process.

“Registering for your PVC is not optional; it is your civic responsibility,” Obioru stated.

“Your PVC is your power. It gives you the right to vote, to hold leaders accountable, and to shape the future of Warri, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole.”

He stressed that meaningful youth participation is essential to building a democratic society anchored on transparency, accountability, and good governance, noting that young people constitute the largest voting population in the country.

“When young people register and vote, they influence policy direction and promote credible leadership. Democracy works best when citizens are actively involved, not when they are silent or disengaged,” he added.

Speaking further, Mr. Obioru, who is seeking election into the House of Representatives for Warri Federal Constituency under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2027, urged youths to leverage their numerical strength to demand reforms, inclusivity, and people-centered governance.

He also issued a strong warning against electoral malpractice, calling on Nigerians, particularly residents of Warri, to reject vote buying and election rigging, which he described as major setbacks to Nigeria’s democratic growth.

“I also want to urge Nigerians, especially the people of Warri, to shun vote buying and election rigging,” Obioru said.

“Let us embrace our future by educating one another against practices that have robbed us of our democratic progress.”

He further emphasized that collecting a PVC must go hand in hand with protecting the sanctity of the vote.

“As we exercise our rights by obtaining our PVCs, we must also resolve that no political party or candidate should buy our conscience or our right to vote,” he stated.

“The power to choose our leaders belongs to the people, and it must never be traded for money or temporary gains.”

Mr. Obioru concluded by encouraging all eligible citizens, particularly young Deltans to take active responsibility for shaping a safer, more prosperous future by participating fully in the electoral process.

“Get your PVC, protect your vote, and be ready to decide the future. A new Warri and a better Nigeria are possible when the people stand up and act,” he said.

DTHA 2027: Rotation not a benchmark for underqualified individuals to represent Isoko South constituency 1 – OPRM

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

A political Pressure Group, Oleh Political Restoration Movement (OPRM), has sounded it clear that the 3 community rotational system shouldn’t be use as a benchmark to send underqualified individuals to represent Isoko South Constituency 1 in the forthcoming House Assembly election 2027.

In a statement signed and released to journalists by the group Coordinator, Mr. Kome Ogbodu state that, “Isoko South Constituency 1 must avoid recycling of ineffective politicians under the guise of seeking experience leaders. As we practice rotation, let prioritize who will not embarrass the constituency”.

The group noted that, in 2015 to 2019, the constituency had a representative ingloriously known for absenteeism, earning the nickname ‘Absentee Member’, stating she often travelled for personal reasons during sessions, with a legislative aide covering for her by recording and sending sessions to her abroad.

The group affirmed that, “it is a public knowledge the aforementioned former House of Assembly member was absent for over 2 years put together out of the 4 years in office, with no consequences due to influential connection”, they lamented.

The group further stated that, “the aide eventually resigned and contested against her, highlighting the flaws in our system. If Emede people are pushing this narrative, we would be better off with her legislative aide, who at least show more legislative potentials. We saw no bills or engagement from her tenure; her respect then came from her connections, not legislative achievements”.

They asserted that, “We can’t afford to repeat this mistake, especially needing strong representation now. Let us consider Chief Jubilant Igelige if rotation is not working”.

CVR: Oborevwori, Stakeholders Lament Low Turnout, Call for Massive Grassroots Mobilisation in Delta

By
Isoko Nation News
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed concern over the low turnout recorded during the first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in the state, urging stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the second phase commencing in January 2026.

The Governor made this known on Wednesday at a sensitisation and advocacy engagement organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in collaboration with the Delta State Government at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori described the registration figures from the first phase as far below expectations, noting that the 76,000 registrants recorded did not reflect the population strength and democratic consciousness of the state.

He stressed that voter registration remains the gateway to democratic participation and the foundation of a credible and inclusive electoral process.

Governor Oborevwori called on traditional rulers, political party leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, market associations, and the media to take ownership of the CVR campaign by driving awareness directly to communities.

He particularly appealed to youths and first-time voters to seize the opportunity to register, describing them as the future of democracy.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for INEC to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities and expressed optimism that the second phase of the exercise would record a significant improvement over the first.

Earlier in his welcome address, Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, said the engagement was necessitated by declining civic participation and voter apathy.

He emphasised that while INEC’s primary responsibility is to conduct elections, citizen participation through voter registration is fundamental to good governance.

According to him, citizens who fail to exercise their civic responsibility of voting forfeit the moral right to complain about governance outcomes.

In his presentation, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udoh Umoren, outlined the timeline of the first phase of the CVR, which commenced with online pre-registration in August 2025, followed by physical registration across local government offices and the display of the voters register for claims and objections, in line with the Electoral Act 2022.

He explained that the CVR accommodates first-time voters, those who missed earlier registrations, applicants seeking correction of personal details, replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and those wishing to transfer their registration.

The REC announced that the second phase of the CVR began on January 5, 2026, stressing that voter registration is a civic duty and a cornerstone of democracy, not merely an administrative exercise.

He also cautioned against registration offences such as multiple registrations and providing false information, noting the legal penalties attached, while assuring of INEC’s commitment to neutrality, transparency, and peaceful conduct of the exercise.

The sensitisation programme which featured a roadwalk show led by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, was attended by key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; Hon. Francis Waive, member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency; members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council; traditional rulers, market women, civil society organisations, community leaders, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), ALGON, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), among others.

Take advantage of the APC ongoing E-registration to join party – Engr. Ashakah

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

Engr. Orobosa Uzuazomaro Ashakah has called on the people of Isoko North to actively take advantage of the ongoing APC E-registration exercise to participate, describing it as a vital step toward strengthening the party and securing a stronger political future for the area.

According to him, E-registration is not just a party activity but an opportunity for Isoko North to consolidate its voice, relevance, and bargaining power within the APC.

He urged party members, supporters, youths, and well meaning residents to come out en masse and complete the process, stressing that unity and participation are key to effective representation.

Engr. Ashakah reaffirmed his commitment to the progress of Isoko North and encouraged the people to remain steadfast, organized, and proactive, noting that collective action today will shape better opportunities and development tomorrow.

VREI, Nigeria Police, and Partners Mobilize Men to Tackle Gender-Based Violence in Bayelsa

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Government agencies in Nigeria, civil society community, traditional and religious leaders, and the public have been charged to join hands in the campaign to end Gender Based Violence (G V) and build safer and more inclusive communities.

The South-South Coordinator of MFN, Amb. Edewor Egedegbe, speaking at the Town-hall Meeting

The charge was given at a high-level Town Hall Meeting held on 15 January, 2026, at the Nigeria Police Officers’ Mess, Bayelsa State Command with the aim to promote Male Feminism and curb Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Bayelsa State.

Cross Section of participants

The meeting was convened by Value Rebirth and Empowerment Initiative (VREI), in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force (Zone 16), with support from the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD).

Cross Section of participants

Critical stakeholders, numbering 82, including police officers, traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, civil society practitioners, media professionals, and male allies, attended the epoch meeting and pledged commitment to advance strategies to engage and enlist men to become key partners in promoting gender equality and preventing GBV in Bayelsa State and the wider Nigeria.

Taking turns to speak at the event, the participants highlighted the urgent need to address rising incidents of GBV in Nigeria, stemming primarily from deep-rooted gender inequality, unequal power dynamics, entrenched patriarchal norms, harmful social norms, weak enforcement of laws, weak legal protections, and economic instability.

The town-hall meeting progressed with the participants examining the societal challenges faced by women, particularly female police officers such as pervasive gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and limited career progression.

The participants also acknowledged the important role the Nigeria Police Force plays in responding to GBV cases through specialized units and Gender Desk Officers.
Continuing, they expressed the compelling need to strengthen the implementation of existing laws concerning GBV, restore survivor’s sense of safety, and improve allocation of resources.

The participants further noted that Nigeria’s decline in the 2025 Global Gender Gap Index – 124th out of 148 countries globally, and frowned at the recurring underrepresentation of women in leadership cycles, and across institutions across political and business spheres.

They stressed the importance of protecting victims of GBV through survivor-centered approach – a foundational method of support that prioritizes the rights and needs of survivors to restore their sense of safety, power, and control.

According to the participants, the survivor-centered approach is based on four fundamental principles  including Safety geared towards prioritizing the physical and emotional safety of the survivor and Confidentiality targeted  at ensuring that information is only shared with the survivor’s explicit, informed consent.

Others include Respect which is to ensure treating the survivor with dignity, believing their story, and respecting their choices and Non-discrimination that priotises providing equal, fair support, regardless of age, gender, race, or other social strata.

The highpoint of the town-hall meeting was the participants’ adoption of a set of resolutions with the aim of strengthening measures to prevent GBV and quicken response to GBV emergencies. These include enhancing collaboration between the police and civil society organizations; advocating for the amendment of discriminatory provisions in the Police Act; engaging men as frontline advocates for gender equality; and passing down knowledge centering on prevention of GBV and promotion of gender equality across communities and institutions.

The participants also committed to promoting a clear understanding of feminism as a movement for equality, justice, and human rights for all, while taking community-level action to identify early warning signs, de-escalate potential violence, and provide referrals for survivors.

“We believe that meaningful change begins when men become active allies in challenging harmful norms and promoting respect, dignity, and justice for all,” the representatives of VREI stated.

Group Faults Reasons Cited for Hon. Esievo to Contest 2027 DTHA Election 

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Emede Development Initiative has faulted in totality the reasons cited by one Mr. Raphael Egbuwoku, who has urged the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Isoko Constituency 1 to give the party ticket of the Delta State House of Assembly 2027 primary election to the current Executive Director Legal Service, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue Hon. Erezi Esievo.

In a statement signed by the Director General of the group, Comrade Ogbere Odomero Clement stated that, “We read with utmost disappointment for the public call on Hon. Orezi Esievo, current Executive Director, Legal Services, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, to be given the Isoko South Constituency 1 APC ticket, citing the rotational norm favouring Emede to produce the next DTHA member. We view this call as being in bad taste and uncharitable to both Emede Community and Hon. Orezi herself”.

The group asserted that, “The reasons cited by Mr. Egbuwoku are unreasonable and untenable, leading us to believe he may have some ulterior motives.

“Firstly, his argument that the constituency might produce a Speaker implies the Senator is leaving Isoko, as both positions can’t be held by the same ethnic group within Delta South Senatorial District”.

The group reiterates that, Egbuwoku should note that, principal offices aren’t awarded solely based on tenure, noting that Hon. Ferguson became a Majority Leader in his first term, Hon. Bernard Odior became a principal member in his first term, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori became Speaker in his first term, from which he became the current Governor after 6 years as a Speaker, stating that, these examples show merit, competence, proficiency and connect, not just tenure, determines leadership roles”.

The Emede Development Initiative further question Egbuwoku’s call, on Hon. Orezi Esievo to contest, despite her not expressing aspirations, raises questions about his perception of Emede community men, adding that the community has competent individuals like: Hon. Emakpor Odogu, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Community Development who is showing so much competence in his job and visible display of eloquence and reliability, Hon. Dennis Obrogo, former two-term Secretary, Isoko South Local Government Council, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mr. Clement Aduze, Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development.

Others include: Chief Godcase Etugbo, successful businessman and Labour Party candidate in the last general election, Mr. Ichehono Ejeje, Civil Engineer currently showing interest in active politics, Barrister Tony Ejumejowo, Legal Practitioner and former DTHA aspirant, a social critic with interest in Isoko Development and Chief Henry Oduose, businessman also trying to explore the Isoko political space.

“Undermining these crops of Emede competent men to be calling on a woman who has had so much privileges in the past shows how insensitive Mr. Egbuwoku is to the growth of aspiring men of the community politically. And this also lives much to reason about his sincerity to the growth and human capital development of Emede community”.

The group has urged other communities in Constituency 1 and the system to shun Egbuwoku’s call, that they are suspecting a selfish agenda detrimental to Emede men.

The group noted that, “we are of the opinion that the call on Orezi to contest DTHA election in 2027 by Egbuwoku’s after previously ridiculing and casting aspersion on her over allegations of projects abandonment as another ploy to ridicule her. This became obvious knowing fully well that Hon. Orezi was a strong contender in the last contest for the Federal House of Representatives”.

The group however appeal to the good people of Irri and Oleh to respect the rotational representation norm which clearly favors Emede by 2027.

The community will duly present a suitable candidate, ensuring the Constituency’s pride, they stated.

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