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NUJ Isoko Chapel Mourns Immediate Past Bishop of Warri Catholic Diocese Afareha

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the immediate past Bishop of Warri Diocese, Late Bishop John Okeoghene Afareha.

In a statement issued by the Isoko Chapel of the NUJ, signed by Comrades Michael Ilaya and Matthew Unyove, Chairman and Secretary respectively, lamented that his death is a significant loss to Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.

They described late Bishop John Okeoghene Afareha as an outstanding visionary God’s servant whose leadership and contributions left an enduring legacy in Warri Catholic Diocese, Delta State and Nigeria at large.

The Union stated that, Bishop Afareha death was a huge loss not only to his community, Isoko people and the Catholic family, but also to the entire Delta State and Nigeria as a whole, noting that his life exemplified hard work, innovation, service to God and Almighty humanity.

Late Bishop Afareha was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Warri on March 3, 1997, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997.

He later became the substantive Bishop of Warri Diocese on March 29, 2010, a position he held until his retirement on March 10, 2022, after attaining the Canonical retirement age of 75.

During his episcopal tenure, Bishop Afareha was regarded as a calm but firm church leader who placed strong emphasis on prayer, discipline and pastoral responsibility.

He was also known for his modest lifestyle and close attention to the spiritual welfare of priests and lay faithful, earning him wide respect within the Nigerian Catholic community.

Bishop of Ozoro Diocese Pledges Synergy With NUJ

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Isoko Nation News
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By Matthew Unyove 

The newly consecrated Bishop of Ozoro Diocese of the Anglican communion, RT Reverend Benjamin Idume has promised to work in synergy with the members of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Isoko Chapel, in the discharge of his duties even as he calls for collaboration of the press in the reportage of the Diocese activities.

RT Reverend Idume made the pledge Monday at the Bishop’s Court, Ozoro, the administrative headquarters of the Diocese when he granted audience to members of the NUJ that paid him a courtesy and familiarization visit.

The Bishop who went down memory lane to narrate how the Diocese came into being, pointed out that Ozoro Diocese is created from the present Oleh Diocese of the Anglican Communion with the view of winning more converts to Christ through evangelism.

Bishop Benjamin Idume however, dismissed insinuations emanating from certain quarters that Ozoro Diocese was created based on the existing political divide in the area.

He also stated that despite the eleven Archdeaconries that made up the new Diocese,which some commentators term to be imbalance compared to Oleh Diocese with 23 Archdeaconries, Idume was emphatic that the disparity would energies their zeal to evangelize and plant more churches.

Rt. Reverend Idume disclosed that, despite the numerous teething challenges faced as a new Diocese in terms of infrastructural developments, the Church of God is a progressive body which is tied to certain objectives like political and economic factors to survive.

As cardinal point of his duties, Rt. Reverend Idume revealed that he has commenced familiarization visit to Archdeaconries including Iyede-Ame, Umuolu, Ashaka and Ofagbe Archdeaconries in the recent times.

He however, assured the pressmen  practitioners that more strategic efforts would be deployed to evangelism which is the basis of Christ’s command to preach the gospel to every creature and to teach them to observe all things to behave like Christ.

Earlier, the leader of Isoko Chapel of the NUJ Comrade Emmanuel Ekebe, had intimated the Bishop of their mission which was to congratulate and felicitate with him as the newly enthroned Bishop of the Diocese.

Comrade Ekebe also sued for cordial working relationship in terms of media coverage of the Diocese activities as partners in progress.

Those who were present during the courtesy visit include, Comrades Michael Ilaya, Chairman of Isoko Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Edede Jonadab, Vice Chairman, Unyove Matthew, Secretary, Comrade Ohoror Kelvin, Financial Secretary and Comrade Ekemena Azaino, member.

Ashakah Women in Politics Hosts Engr. Ashakah in Ozoro

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Isoko Nation News
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The Ashakah Women in Politics hosted Engr. Orobosa Uzuazomaro Ashakah at a well-attended political meeting in Ozoro, last Sunday, reaffirming their solidarity and support for his leadership and political aspirations.

The leader of the Ashaka Women in Politics, Mrs. Afor Ilaya, in her welcome speech, eulogised Engr. Ashakah, for his consistent engagement with grassroots stakeholders, particularly women in politics.

Speaking on behalf of the women, Mrs. Ilaya described Engr. Ashakah as a leader who has shown commitment to inclusive governance, youth development, and community advancement.

She noted that the women’s group believes in his vision and capacity to contribute meaningfully to the political and socio-economic development of the area.

“We are proud to identify with Engr. Orobosa Uzuazomaro Ashakah. His leadership style reflects sincerity, accessibility, and a genuine concern for the future of our communities. We are solidly behind him in any political position he is vying for.” adding that “No women, no politics”.

Responding, Engr. Ashakah expressed deep appreciation to the Ashakah Women in Politics for their show of solidarity and encouragement.

He emphasized the critical role women play in political mobilization, peace-building, and sustainable development, pledging to always prioritize policies and initiatives that empower women and promote unity.

The visit featured goodwill messages, group discussions on political participation, and a collective affirmation of support for Engr. Ashaka.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by the Ashakah Women in Politics to remain active partners in the political process and community development efforts in Ozoro and beyond.

The gathering further highlighted the growing influence of women in local politics and their readiness to support leaders they consider credible and people-oriented.

OPINION: Rep. Ukodhiko Building the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs in Isoko 

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Entrepreneurs remain the backbone of every thriving economy. Through innovation, creativity, and risk-taking, they stimulate job creation, drive economic growth, and foster sustainable development. When entrepreneurs introduce new or path-breaking ideas, they not only provide quality products and services but also open up employment opportunities that catalyse growth across related sectors of the economy.

It is against this backdrop that the Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, has continued to invest deliberately in building a new generation of entrepreneurs across Isoko land. His approach is anchored on the conviction that lasting development is achieved not through handouts, but through equipping people with relevant skills, mentorship, and the resources required to become self-reliant and economically productive.

Hon. Ukodhiko firmly believes that true empowerment lies in enabling individuals to become change-makers within their communities. To this end, he has consistently rolled out well-structured programmes focused on entrepreneurial skills development, vocational training, and financial support for start-ups and small businesses.

Through these interventions, tangible impacts have been recorded across the constituency. No fewer than 70 constituents were trained in air freshener and bleach production, with each beneficiary receiving ₦200,000 as start-up support. In addition, other small business owners were supported with ₦500,000 each, while 150 small-scale entrepreneurs received ₦200,000 apiece. One hundred petty traders were also empowered with ₦100,000 each to strengthen and expand their businesses.

In a major push for inclusive economic participation, especially among women, a total of ₦60 million was committed to skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training programmes. Under this initiative, 200 women were trained in soap production, with each participant receiving a ₦100,000 start-up grant to immediately translate skills into viable businesses.

Furthermore, Hon. Ukodhiko attracted Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIP) valued at ₦113 million for advanced skill acquisition in areas such as car tracking, web design, tailoring, POP installation, tiling, and photography. Beneficiaries under the ICT and photography categories received ₦250,000 each, while those in various artisan trades received ₦200,000 each to establish or expand their ventures.

Agricultural entrepreneurship was not left out. Pig farmers were trained and supported with ₦550,000 each as start-up grants, while fish farmers received 4,000 juvenile fish, six bags of imported fish feed, and an additional ₦150,000 in cash support. Altogether, over 400 beneficiaries across the Isoko Federal Constituency have been empowered through these agricultural initiatives.

These innovative and well-targeted empowerment programmes have not only created jobs and businesses but have also encouraged creativity, innovation, and sustainable solutions to socio-economic challenges within the constituency. By enabling constituents to generate income and build wealth, Hon. Ukodhiko’s interventions are directly contributing to poverty reduction, economic self-sufficiency, and improved livelihoods.

It is widely acknowledged that Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko’s philosophy of governance is rooted in people-centred development. By strategically empowering individuals and communities, he continues to unlock hidden potential, build resilience, and lay the foundation for a more prosperous and sustainable future for Isoko land.

Uzere Community Drags Ukodhiko Over Neglect in Constituency Projects

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emmanuel Ekebe

The leadership and people of Uzere Community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta state have expressed dissatisfaction over their exclusion in the allocation of constituency projects by the member representing the Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko.

In a release signed by the President General, Chief Imoni Edward Onyagbodor and the Secretary General, Samuel Oluku, the Uzere people stated that: “the attention of the Uzere people has been drawn to a recent publication titled ‘Ukodhiko Performance Record Underscores Robust Lawmaking, Far Reaching Constituency Impact in Isoko’. authored by Dr. Nelson Egware, Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta state on Media.

According to the Uzere people, “in the viral publication, various wide ranging legislative, developmental and social interventions between 2023 and 2025 were listed.

“In the list, several Isoko Communities were mentioned as beneficiaries both in Isoko South and North which Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko represents”.

Stating further their reservations, Uzere people however, noted that “while we do not begrudge those benefiting communities as outlined, we are shocked that Uzere, a foremost oil and gas producing community was conspicuously excluded in the distribution/location of the largesse by House of Representatives member.”

The Uzere people stated further that “the reason for the exclusion(s) remain unclear but on inquiry, we were told that Pastor Ukodhiko had attracted 45 street lights to Uzere as the constituency project.

“What a great slap and disserve”, the Uzere people quarried!

The Uzere leadership then emphasised that “let it be known that the Uzere people are more pained because records are still fresh that during the 2023 elections, Uzere had overwhelmingly voted for the PDP, the ruling party then where Ukodhiko was the flag bearer.”

The statement concluded that “…it is our hope that before the next round of elections, Pastor Ukodhiko and indeed all other elected and appointed Representatives; from the State House of Assembly to the Senate should ensure that Uzere people always get their fair share of the dividends of democracy without discrimination”.

Meanwhile all attempts to get Pastor Ukodhiko’s reaction to the Uzere people’s claim were all abortive as at the time of filing this report.

However, a close political associate of Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko who requested not to be mentioned told us that “the man could have done certain things for the Uzere people that might not have been captured”

He stated further that he was aware “Ukodhiko sent some bags of rice to the Community this last Christmas.”

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: Isoko South LGC Chairman, Friday Warri Pays Tribute to Retired Soldiers, Fallen Heroes

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Matthew Unyove 

The Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, Comrade Friday Warri has charged the Nigeria Armed Forces to be resolute and determined in their resolve to protect the territorial integrity of Nigeria entity as always.

Comrade Warri gave the charge today January 15, 2026 at Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area during the celebration of the years’ Armed Forces remembrance day.

The council Chairman paid glowing tribute to the gallant soldiers, both serving, retired and fallen heroes of the nation for their roles and contributions.

Comrade Warri however, outlined the uniqueness of the Nigerian Armed Forces in their statutory resolve to defend the territorial integrity of the Nation against internal and external aggression.

Additionally, the Chairman therefore, chronicled some remarkable contributions of the Nigerian Armed Forces in keeping the nation together as one during the Nigeria civil war, participation in the ECOMOG forces in Liberia, Sierra Leone, other African countries and recently waging war against insurgency in the North-East, North-West and the Middle Belt which has also claimed lives of the soldiers.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Nigeria Legion, Isoko South Local Chapter LT. Col. Agalabri Napoleon commended Isoko South Local Government Chairman for the approval of the celebration despite the lean financial resources of the local government.

Col. Agalabri however requested for the provision of Veterans’ office in the council premises.

In a sermon during the church service, titled ‘What Will You Be Bemembered For’, Pastor Emmanuel Oletu charged the people to use their respective positions to better the lots of the legioniars.

Pastor Oletu who took his text from Matthew 5: verse 13 to 15 urged political office holders and other well meaning Nigerians to develop capacity and responsibility for the Armed Forces’ personnel, most of whom are incapacitated.

He however, encouraged the people to take advantage of their positions to render assistance to the widows of the fallen heroes.

Highlights of the celebration include the inspection of guard of honour by the Council Chairman, Comrade Friday Warri, laying of wreaths at the feet of the unknown soldier led by Isoko South Council Chairman, representative of Commanding Officer 181 Amphibia Battalion, Master Warrant Officer Luka Geoffrey, Religious leaders among others as well as observance of two minutes silence in honour of the fallen heroes.

Activist Ejumudo Pays Courtesy Visit on DCP Olumuyiwa

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Intrepid human rights defender in Nigeria and Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Human Rights, Activist Kelvin Ejumudo, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit on the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command, Asaba, DCP Adejobi Olumuyiwa to deepen collaboration with police towards fostering advocacy to promote human rights and fundamental freedom, and curb rising drug abuse amongst youths.

Briefing journalists on the outcome of the visit, Activist Ejumudo, who is also the National Secretary of Citizens Rights Concern Enhancement Initiative (CRCEI), described his meeting with DCP Adejobi Olumuyiwa as enriching and timely, stating that proactive measures to tackle the menace of drug abuse and strengthen police and civil groups relationship in the protection of human rights were discussed.

“We had a robust conversation which centered on Human Rights and security within the state, including worrisome dangers drug abuse poses to our youths,” he stated, stressing that drug abuse is a “silent epidemic” across communities, driven by complex social, economic, and psychological factors.

“Collective action is needed to stem the menace and make society safe for all to live in”, he added.

He described DCP Adejobi Olumuyiwa as an exceptional police officer with expert knowledge of the complementary role police play in protection of human rights and building a society that protects the rights of all Nigerians across board.

“I must commend him for his vast knowledge of Human Rights and crime fighting,” Activist Ejumudo stated.

Ejumudo, while speaking on the schedules of activities he would champion in 2026 to surpass the achievements made in 2025, in the fight against drug abuse and the defence of human rights, said, “In the coming days and months, we will be having result-tailored engagements with the police and strengthen existing synergy to be able to walk the talk and subsequently achieve our set goals for the year.”

He promised that more collaborations would be built across critical stakeholders and across the communities to be able to make a compelling impact in addressing societal ills and promoting social justice and rule of law in Nigeria.

Activist Ejumudo expressed hope that ills bedevilling the Nigerian state would be obliterated as good spirited Nigerians stick to their guns to right the wrongs without minding whose ox is gored.

Activist Ejumudo is a brave and an accomplished Nigerian human rights defender with unwavering commitment to championing and fighting for human rights of poor Nigerians, challenging brutality, oppression and injustice wherever and whenever they occur, often with huge risks to his life.

He had earned several awards and recognitions for staying firm with his untainted ideology that absolutely inspires his campaign against rights abuse, including abuse of drugs.

Ozoro Youth Assembly Stages Peaceful Protest Over Electricity Blackout

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Ozoro Youth Assembly, today 12th of January, 2026, has staged a peaceful protest across the streets of Ozoro Kingdom demanding an end to the persistent electricity blackout affecting the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The youths under the leadership of Comrade Marvis Ogbu Omanudhowho with various inscriptions on placards and chanting slogans, called on local authorities and relevant utility providers to address the ongoing power outage, which has significantly disrupted daily activities, education, and small scale businesses in the area.

The Youth Assembly and his Executive Council, voiced their concerns on the urgent need for regular electricity in Ozoro Kingdom.

They emphasized that the protest was not just about electricity but also a broader call for better infrastructure and community development.

They also appealed to the Federal, State and local governments to always liaise with the youth to ensure sustainable solutions to recurring problems affecting the kingdom.

Some of the residents of Ozoro Kingdom who spoke in anonymity praised the youth body for their disciplined approach, noting that the demonstration sent a strong message without resorting to violence or destruction of property.

The assembly concluded the protest with a commitment to continue the advocacy until the community’s electricity needs are adequately met.

Despite their frustrations over the prolonged electricity blackout, the peaceful protest was orderly and non-violent, highlighting the community’s determination to demand accountability through peaceful means.

OPINION:  Foreign allies can help Nigeria fight insecurity, but only Nigerians can truly end it – Comr. Janadab Edede

By
Isoko Nation News
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The mind bugging rhetorical question on the mind of every Nigerian regarding insecurity in Nigeria has been whether can the Nigerian Army Partnering with the U.S. Army bring total peace to the country

Nigeria continues to battle multiple layers of insecurity ranging from Boko Haram insurgency and banditry to kidnapping and communal violence. These challenges have not only affected lives and property but have also weakened public confidence in the government of the day and security agencies.
The concern of many Nigerians now is whether a strong partnership between the Nigerian Army and the U.S. Army could bring lasting peace to the nation giving the politicisation of security challenges and non commitment to strategic rejigging of the security architecture of the nation.

A partnership of this nature could yield important gains in many facets including advancement of training and technology. The U.S. military possesses world-class expertise in intelligence, surveillance, and counterterrorism.

Part of the benefits will lead to enhancement in training Nigerian troops in certain strategic areas that could greatly strengthen their operational effectiveness while keying into their intelligence sharing, access to U.S. satellite data and intelligence networks to help track terrorists activities, logistics, and funding sources more accurately.

Improved equipment and logistics collaboration could open doors to modern communication systems; drones, and surveillance tools to improve response time and precision.

Such cooperation could be a boost to morale and engender global support, signal international confidence in Nigeria’s stability and might encourage additional global assistance.

Despite the seemingly succour such collaborative gesture may portend, there are important challenges to consider, key among others is the issue of national sovereignty.

Heavy U.S. involvement may raise concerns about external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs, possibly enthrone corruption and weak Institutions.Without accountability and political will at home, even advanced training or equipment might not yield results.

The collaboration may throw up the issue of differing operating contexts. U.S. strategies must be tailored to Nigeria’s terrain, culture, and local dynamics to be truly effective, but Nigeria as a nation, should be wary of dependency risk.

Over reliance on foreign partners could weaken Nigeria’s long-term capacity to manage its own security.

While one school of thought believes that the Nigerian–U.S. military partnership could strengthen capacity, intelligence, and morale, another school of thought which I belong, believe that such partnership cannot alone guarantee total peace.

True peace requires more than military might or superiority, it demands political sincerity, economic opportunity, community cooperation, and a transparent, well-motivated security structure.

No doubt, foreign allies can help Nigeria fight insecurity, but only Nigerians can truly end it.

Let government at all levels act in good faith to reshape the future of this country.

Isoko Chapel of NUJ Congratulates Engr. Omoyibo on Birth Anniversary at 57

By
Isoko Nation News
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The Executive members, on behalf of the entire members of Isoko Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oleh, heartily congratulate a man of purpose, discipline, and unalloyedly committed to elevation of mankind, High Chief (Engr.) Daniel Omoyibo, popularly known as DANMOTECH, on the occasion of his special birthday at 57.

We celebrate not just the passing of another year, but a gift of your life, an exceptional capacity to blend entrepreneurship excellence and selfless service to humanity, exemplifying true leadership in business and philanthropy as well as a deep passion for collective growth.

The ‘Omoghagha 1’ of Isoko nation, your life’s journey reminds us that true leadership is best expressed through humility, consistency, selfless and progressive actions. You have proven that true progress is built by men who are willing to serve behind the scenes while keeping the bigger picture in focus.

As you mark this new chapter of your life, we pray that your days ahead be filled with renewed strength, greater wisdom, good health, and uncommon grace to accomplish your mission on planet earth.

May your efforts continue to yield fruits, your voice remain impactful, and your path shine brighter with new opportunities to serve humanity and the Isoko Nation.

Congratulations

Comr. Michael Ilaya
Chairman

Comr. Matthew Unyove
Secretary

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