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CAPACITY BUILDING: We are committed to staff welfare and training – Prof Awhefeada

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter

The Vice Chancellor of the Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, Delta State, Prof Sunny Awhefeada, has assured staff of the University of the management’s continuous commitment to their welfare and training.

He gave this assurance during the opening remarks on the ‘One Day Workshop on the Training of Academic Staff on Effective Teaching, Timetable Compliance, and Quality Lecture Delivery’ organized by the university at the ETF Auditorium, Ozoro Delta State on 2nd June, 2026.

While flagging off the workshop, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada stressed that his administration is deeply committed to the effective training and well-being of academic staff hence the decision to prioritize capacity building to sensitize and empower staff on how to discharge their responsibilities.

Speaking further, Awhefeada said the workshop was part of his vision to transform the university into a model of a pacesetter and academic advancement that will automatically translate to attaining international visibility.

Furthermore, the VC said “the workshop is for every academic staff targeted at quality and productive delivery” while he eulogising the guests lecturers Prof. Ochuko Anomohanran and Prof. John N. Odili as erudite professors endowed with an eagle’s eyes to deliver knowledge that will enhance lecturers’ development to deliver on their mandate effectively.

While expressing joy and satisfaction for the timely attendance of academic staff to the training workshop, he told the participants who, according to him, massively turned up for the workshop without coercion, to pay apt attention to the guest lecturers in order to prepare themselves for their responsibilities, assuring lecturers of always observing holidays in future after fulfilling their mandate of results submission two weeks after each examination.

However, he charged participants to leave a legacy in academic advancement through effective quality assurance being a formative process to pave way for better opportunities for the students.

The workshop tagged “Effective Teaching, Timetable Compliance, and Quality Lecture Delivery” for academic staff of the Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, was well attended by all academic staff and taken by renowned resource persons who took participants on topics such as “The Interconnected Roles of Quality Assurance for Lecturers, Students and the University in Southern Delta University, Ozoro” by Prof. Ochuko Anomohanran and “Academic Advancement through Effective Quality Assurance Practices in Southern Delta University, Ozoro” by J. N. Odili.

The guest lecturers in their separate statements in the discharge of their lectures, acknowledged and emphasized that the responsibility of quality assurance do not lie on the shoulder of one individual but a collective one.

Izeze Lauds Ogbuku as NDDC Lights Up Oginibo Community with Solar Streetlights

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has commended the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, for the installation of the first phase of 245 solar-powered streetlights in Oginibo Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Izeze, an illustrious son of Oginibo Community, expressed his appreciation in a post on his Facebook page, describing the project as a major milestone for the community and a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the lives of people in the Niger Delta region.

Drawing inspiration from Genesis 1:3, the commissioner declared that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had reached Oginibo Community through the NDDC intervention.

“And the Lord said, ‘Let there be light (in Oginibo Community)’ and there was light,” Izeze wrote, thanking Ogbuku and the NDDC management team for the project.

According to him, the solar streetlight installation represents the first Federal Government project to be executed in Oginibo Community since the administration of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

The commissioner praised President Tinubu for appointing what he described as competent and value-adding individuals from the Niger Delta region to manage the affairs of the interventionist agency.

He noted that the streetlight project would significantly improve security, boost economic activities and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of the community.

While expressing gratitude for the completion of the first phase, Izeze appealed to the NDDC to expedite the award and execution of the second phase of the project.

He also called on the commission to provide a 500KVA transformer, accessories and cables for the electrification of the Oginibo New Town Extension.

“We eagerly await the award of the Phase Two of this project, the provision of a 500KVA transformer and other impactful projects for our people,” he stated.

Izeze further offered prayers for Ogbuku, the NDDC Board and Management, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Oginibo Community, Delta State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The solar-powered streetlight project is expected to transform the nighttime landscape of Oginibo Community and underscores the NDDC’s commitment to delivering sustainable infrastructure across communities in the Niger Delta region.

Body of Veteran Journalist Late Onoweme Finally Laid to Rest

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Unyove Matthew

The body of late Comrade Mark Onoweme, a veteran journalist was finally committed to mother earth last Friday at his home town Enwhe, in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Late Onoweme who was the pioneer Secretary and one time Vice Chairman of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists died at the age of 71 years.

Late Mark Onoweme, who had a  journalism career that spanned over three decades started as a reporter with Watchman Newspaper in Benin City; Observer Newspaper; a publisher of Isoko Details and Mirror Newspapers, and finally as a reporter with Isoko Nation Newspaper. .
Though gone, the impact of late Onoweme in the journalism profession remained immeasurable as he contributed immensely to the establishment of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

The burial was attended by the Chairman of Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Churchill Oyowe who was represented by the State Financial Secretary, Comrade Polycap Orhowotu who eulogized late Onoweme’s selfless service to humanity.

Present at the ceremony were journalists from the Isoko Chapel of the NUJ and other colleagues and associates who turned out in their large numbers to bid late Comrade Onoweme a farewell .

Offeh Celebrates Oborevwori’s Third Anniversary, Hails Devt Strides in Delta

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

Renowned businessman and philanthropist, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, Eni 1 of Irri Kingdom, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the third anniversary of his administration, commending what he described as remarkable achievements in infrastructure development, economic growth and governance across the state.

Offeh, an Irri-born, Port Harcourt-based businessman, grassroots political mobiliser and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Lesoda Oil & Gas Company Limited, Lesoda Farms and Peoples Concept Nigeria Limited, said Governor Oborevwori’s first three years in office have been marked by purposeful leadership, strategic planning and people-centred policies that continue to transform communities and improve the quality of life of Deltans.

In a statement made available to journalists, the entrepreneur noted that the administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable development through the execution of major infrastructure projects and governance initiatives that are positively impacting lives across Delta State.

According to him, one of the defining features of the administration has been its aggressive road infrastructure programme, particularly interventions on critical road networks designed to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activities.

He specifically commended the government’s commitment to the Ughelli–Asaba road corridor, describing it as a strategic route with significant economic importance to the state.

Offeh also lauded the construction of flyover bridges in Warri, Effurun, Ughelli and Agbor, as well as ongoing infrastructural improvements in surrounding communities, noting that such projects would significantly ease traffic congestion, improve transportation efficiency and support economic growth.

He further praised the reconstruction and upgrading of the Osubi–Eku Road and several other road projects spread across the three senatorial districts, saying the administration has demonstrated fairness, inclusiveness and balanced development in project distribution.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has continued to redefine governance through visionary leadership and strategic infrastructure investments. His administration’s developmental strides in road construction, urban renewal and public service delivery have positively impacted communities across Delta State,” Offeh stated.

The businessman also commended the governor’s efforts to reposition the power sector in the state through initiatives aimed at improving electricity supply and strengthening power infrastructure across the energy value chain.

According to him, stable electricity remains essential for industrial expansion, business growth and job creation, adding that the administration’s commitment to power sector reforms reflects a forward-looking leadership focused on long-term economic sustainability.

Beyond physical infrastructure, Offeh said the government has continued to invest in human capital development, grassroots empowerment programmes and economic initiatives designed to create opportunities for young people and stimulate growth across multiple sectors.

He noted that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style has strengthened public confidence, promoted political stability and fostered unity among stakeholders across the state.

“As Governor Sheriff Oborevwori marks the third anniversary of his administration, Deltans can point to visible evidence of progress across multiple sectors. His commitment to development, inclusiveness and service delivery continues to inspire confidence and optimism for a more prosperous Delta State,” he said.

Reaffirming his support for the governor, Offeh pledged continued mobilisation and grassroots engagement to sustain public support for the MORE Agenda, expressing confidence that Oborevwori’s leadership would further accelerate development and deepen the dividends of democracy across Delta State.

DESOPADEC TENURE EXTENSION: Ughelli NUJ Calls on Board to Give Account of Past Three Years’ Stewardship

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ughelli Correspondents’ Chapel, has called on members of the Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), whose tenure was extended recently, to give full accounts of the last three years to the oil-bearing communities.

The Chapel made this known in a release signed by the Chairman, Comrade Matthias Ogbagah, and Secretary, Comrade Henry Ubus, after its monthly meeting held on Thursday, 28 May 2026, at Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The release stated that there was a need for the affected communities to know how the board spent the 13% derivation fund accrued to the board for the past three years.

The Chapel commented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what it described as his generosity, magnanimity in appointments, and continued funding of DESOPADEC.

The Chapel also applauded the Delta State House of Assembly for standing firmly with the Governor in governance matters.

However, the NUJ maintained that while the one-year extension of the current DESOPADEC board led by the Chairman, Chief John Nani, may have been justified on grounds of continuity, but such extension must equally attract public scrutiny, accountability, and probity regarding the management of funds allocated to the commission from the 13% Oil Derivation Fund.

The Chapel expressed serious concern that apart from the state government and local government council-initiated projects across the state, there is a glaring absence of impactful developmental projects in oil-producing communities by DESOPADEC for the years in question.

According to the statement, “Where are the visible developmental projects in the oil-producing communities that justify the extension of tenure for the current governing board?”

The Chapel further noted that there is a need for the present board to justify the extended tenure by giving a detailed account of their stewardship for the past three years.

The NUJ recalled that DESOPADEC was established under the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission Law, 2007, during the administration of former Governor James Ibori.

The Chapel stressed that Section 13(1) of the enabling law clearly mandates the Commission to receive and exclusively administer 50% of the 13% Oil Derivation Fund accruing to the Delta State Government for the sole purpose of rehabilitating, developing, and providing socio-economic amenities to oil-producing communities across the state.

The union insisted that DESOPADEC was never established as a political compensation platform for loyalists and cronies but as a strategic intervention agency meant to address decades of neglect, environmental degradation, and underdevelopment in oil-bearing communities.

The Chapel reiterated that what the people of oil-producing communities deserve at this critical time is not tenure elongation but transparency, accountability, prudent management of public resources, and visible development capable of improving the lives of the people.

ENERGY DISCOURSE: Isoko Electricity Imbroglio – Aniagwu’s Gaffe, Onyeme’s Take; Taming the Bull

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe

In the past two weeks, the media space, particularly the social media platforms have been on over drive, castigating Charles Ahiedu Aniagwu for his misinformation on national television that the Isoko Nation was enjoying 24 hours uninterrupted power supply.

No doubt, much has been said on the vexing matter and I am sure my good friend, Aniagwu as a seasoned professional journalist would have by now realized that it is not all the time that you go on the defensive.

Image laundering at whatever level demands some modicum of hauntiness, docility, humility and honesty to solve an unfolding challenge without being Gobellian or garrulous.

Similarly, craving understanding and showing empathy is not admission of weakness but an honourable identification with the voice of reason.

It is therefore quite expedient in this circumstance when the facts are not only copious but evidently manifest to all and sundry for the issues to be situated forthrightly without political or ethical superficial colouration.

Apart from the fact that Aniagwu did not do a thorough fact check before appearing on Channels TV, he was not aware that another controverted phase on the same subject matter was unfolding in the same government that he speaks for.

Within the same time, when the ‘Aniagwu Against Isoko gate’ was unfolding, the Delta state Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme had a long meeting with the management team of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) in Asaba.

In that meeting, the Deputy Governor reportedly charged the BEDC to do everything possible to restore power supply to Isoko and Ndokwa Nations.

Of course, Onyeme is from Ndokwa land, our Isoko neighbours and also home to several Isoko communities.

Can it be possible to say that Aniagwu is more informed than the Deputy Governor of the state?

I do know that Sir Onyeme visits home almost every weekend while Aniagwu lives in Asaba though I can guess that his home town, Akumazi in Ika North East local government area does not have 24 hours power supply either.

Perhaps, Aniagwu was probably misled that Uzere, the first Isoko community to establish an independent power plant through communal effort enjoys regular power supply.

He needs to be be informed now that: that project which was facilitated with GMoU funds started well but it is already facing challenges bordering on high cost of maintenance, sustainability, regular gas supply, etc.

In the just over one year existence of the Uzere IPP, the Delta state government did not contribute a dime either in equity, logistics or whatever in aid of it’s operations.

Therefore, Aniagwu cannot and should not claim credit or glory for where the government did not sow.

The reality is that the damage has been done just as broken eggs cannot be assembled again.

The best foot forward now is to rise like the spynx from the ashes of the past to seek remedy by taming the bull.

Taking the humble pie is not an anathema or capitulation, rather a noble course of dignity and acknowledgement of human infallibility.

Mr. Commissioner should quickly retract while the Delta state government do a fast liaison with the NDDC on actualizing the abandoned 133/22kv in Ozoro.

This is the panacea to the endemic power supply problem in Isoko land and all hands must be on deck to tame this ranging bull for once.

Meanwhile, let’s desist from decipating energy to escalate our differences on this issue.

We need each other and must remain united to drive the project to fruition.

It is the best way for the Isoko nation to reap some returns from our humongous contribution to the national Commonwealth.

God bless Isoko land.

BREAKING NEWS: Omo-Agege Resigns from APC, Sets to Defect to Another Party

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The former Deputy Senate President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Obarisi of Urhoboland has resigned his membership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) from effective immediately.

In a letter to the Chairman of Orogun Ward 2, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, Senator Omo-Agege stated that after reviewing recent developments within the APC in Delta State and consultation with his associates and supporters, it is clear that his political objectives and those of his constituents are better served outside the party.

“I will not remain a sitting duck in a party where I cannot advance the interests of Delta Central, Delta State and Nigeria, he said.

“I thank the APC for the opportunity to serve as Deputy President of the 9th Senate. I wish the party well and have requested that my name be removed from all membership records, registers, and communication lists,” he said.

Senator Omo-Agege affirmed that his focus remains on delivering development and effective representation for Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria.

He added that he will seek to pursue these goals outside the APC.

SDU Vice Chancellor Unveils Transformational Vision During Familiarization Tour Across Campuses

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Our Reporter 

The Vice Chancellor of the  Southern Delta University (SDU), Prof Sunny Awhefeada has stated that his administration is determined to transform the institution into a pace-setting 21st-century university capable of competing favourably in the global academic environment.

He made this assertion during the ongoing familiarization tour across the faculties, directorates, and departments of the university stressing the need for staff to imbibe a corporate-sector mindset driven by professionalism, creativity, innovation and intentional productivity.

According to him, knowledge and service must go beyond classroom teaching and be commercialized through innovative ideas and practical solutions that can contribute meaningfully to societal growth and development.

He further emphasized the importance of human sustainability and community development, urging staff to remain committed, disciplined and dedicated to their responsibilities.

Prof. Awhefeada also charged staff to cultivate a culture of accountability by respecting deadlines and timelines while avoiding procrastination in the discharge of their duties.

The Vice Chancellor expressed profound appreciation to the Delta State Government for its continuous support towards infrastructural development in the university.

He equally acknowledged the enduring legacy and solid foundation laid by the Founding Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jacob Snapps Oboreh, describing it as a strong platform upon which the institution would continue to grow.

Speaking during the extensive tour across the faculties, directorates, and departments of the university, Prof. Awefeada noted the exercise has served as a platform for him to articulate the vision and mission of his administration, adding that his policies thrust would be centred on repositioning the university for global relevance through research, innovation, empowerment and academic excellence.

Speaking particularly to academic staff, the Vice Chancellor underscored the importance of mentorship in higher education.

He encouraged lecturers to mentor students through the academic circle of leadership, entrepreneurship, empowerment and character development before graduation, noting that “universities must produce graduates who are not only academically sound but also capable of driving societal transformation.

“Transform your knowledge base beyond the classrooms ; be globally and locally relevant / visible” – he addedS

Speaking further, the Vice Chancellor appreciated the unwavering support and cooperation of staff members and assured them that deserving and hardworking personnel would be recognized through incentives.

He further disclosed that management would provide partial financial support for researchers seeking Scopus-indexed publications as part of efforts to strengthen the university’s research visibility, sponsorship for workshops and continuous training.

He called for increased research activities capable of attracting international academic grants and encouraged greater collaborations among faculties, departments and institutions to enhance productivity and institutional growth.

During the interactive sessions, Deans of Faculties, Directors of Directorates and Heads of Departments highlighted several operational challenges affecting their units and appealed for urgent management attention.

Responding, Prof. Awhefeada directed that all identified needs and requests be properly documented in proposals and submitted to management for consideration and necessary intervention.

Prof. Awhefeada concluded by calling on all staff members to join hands with his administration in advancing the vision and mission of the university, while fostering a culture of excellence, innovation and collective responsibility capable of taking Southern Delta University to greater heights.

The tour, which commenced on Monday, 18th and ended on Tuesday, 26th May, 2026, followed his assumption of office on Monday, May 4, 2026.

Principal Officers during the tour of the University were the Management Team, including the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Presly Obukoadata, Registrar, Mrs. Ejiro Etobro, Bursar, Dr. Sylvester Okoh, Librarian, Prof. Ogochukwu Emiri, and the host officers that were visited both at the Ozoro and Orerokpe campuses where they were accorded warm receptions and colourful entertainment by staff members.

The tour was to faculties, Directorates, Departments , and Units within the university while visits to external stakeholders have been planned for subsequent weeks.

EID-EL KABIR: Izeze Salutes Muslims, Prays for Peace, Unity

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Our Reporter 

Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has extended warm felicitations to Muslims in Delta State, across Nigeria, and around the world as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, urging them to continue promoting peace, unity, and love among humanity.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the Islamic festival, Izeze congratulated Muslim faithful on witnessing another Eid-el-Kabir celebration and prayed for Allah’s abundant blessings upon them and their families.

The Commissioner said Eid-el-Kabir remains a significant period for reflection, sacrifice, compassion, and devotion to God, stressing the need for Nigerians to uphold values that strengthen peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“Eid Mubarak to you and your family. On this special and blessed day, I pray that Allah fills your heart with peace, your home with happiness, and your life with endless blessings,” he said.

Izeze also prayed for Allah to accept the prayers and acts of worship of Muslim faithful, forgive their shortcomings, and grant them good health, success, and long life.

He further expressed hope that the celebration would bring love, joy, prosperity, and renewed faith to Muslims and humanity at large.

“May this Eid Adha bring love, unity, joy, and prosperity to you and everyone around you and all humanity. May your days be bright, your worries be few, and your faith continue to grow stronger,” he added.

The Commissioner wished Muslims a memorable celebration filled with gratitude, happiness, and cherished moments with loved ones.

He concluded by praying for Allah’s continuous guidance and protection for all Nigerians, saying, “Eid Mubarak once again, and may Allah continue to guide and protect us all always.”

Value Rebirth and Human Rights Advocate, Pst. Egedegbe Condemns Mercenary Activism, Stresses Urgent Need to Safeguard Justice in Protection of Vulnerable Citizens

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

A renowned value rebirth cum human rights defender in Nigeria and Executive Director of Value Rebirth and Empowerment Initiative (VREI), Pastor (Comrade) Edewor Egedegbe, has stressed the urgent need to safeguard justice in protection of vulnerable citizens amidst growing concerns over mercenary activism and monetization of humanitarian and advocacy services.

Pastor Egedegbe expressed this sentiment during his presentation entitled: “Ethical Implications of Monetization of Human Rights Support: Safeguarding Justice for the Vulnerable People,” at a public forum, tagged: “A Roundtable Brunch Discourse With Civil Society/Human Rights Organisations in Warri, Effurun, Udu And Their Environs,” organised by the human rights committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, Warri Branch, held at Effurun Bar Center, High Court Premises, Effurun, on Thursday, 22 May, 2026.

The theme of the public forum is “Human Rights Advocacy By Non-Legal Practitioners: Navigating Boundaries of Representation and The Ethics of Monetisation Services.”

Pastor Egedegbe described the theme of the public forum as an intellectual construct targeted at sanitising the human rights advocacy space in line with the extant laws and global best practice.

He advocated that human rights advocacy must remain humanity-centered, ethical, transparent, and service-driven rather than profit-oriented.

He warned against the growing trend of mercenary activism and its attendant harm to society, stating that some corrupt individuals operating under the guise of activism do embed financial conditions into interventions to exploit vulnerable victims’ stories to gain publicity and prioritize pecuniary gain over urgent humanitarian concerns.

According to Pastor Egedegbe, such practices risk creating a two-tier justice system where access to justice depends on financial capacity.

Continuing, Pastor Egedegbe stated that victims of abuse and rights violations, oftentimes under fear and trauma, approach advocates thus making exploitation an ethically troubling trend.

He strongly maintained that advocacy should promote dignity rather than sacrificing it on the altar of pseudo-activism.

Addressing the issue of waning public trust for activists, Pastor Egedegbe noted that when advocacy becomes politicized or excessively monetized, citizens lose confidence in civil society institutions thus genuine human rights defenders suffer reputational damage.

Weighing in on recent national controversies surrounding the detention of Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as “Justice Crack,” and reactions from public figures including Martins Vincent Otse, Marshall Abubakar, and Omoyele Sowore, pastor Egedegbe stated that the situation raised concerns over conflicts of interest, politicization of justice, influence-driven activism, and ethical legal representation.

Advancing his presentation, Pastor Egedegbe celebrated the indelible impact of human rights legends like Gani Fawehinmi and Beko Ransome-Kuti, highlighting their selfless sacrifices, uncompromising integrity, and relentless fight for the marginalized, regardless of their socioeconomic standing.

Pastor Egedegbe called on critical stakeholders including the Body of Benchers, the Nigerian Bar Association, security agencies, and civil society practitioners to uphold ethical standards, promote pro bono services, protect constitutional rights, and maintain public trust in the justice system.

He concluded his presentation by urging the audience to champion advocacy that is ethical, independent, transparent, and dedicated to protecting vulnerable populations.

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