back to top
Sunday, July 13, 2025
Home Blog Page 9

‘Okugbe Avo Ogaga’ – Unity is strength is a bold statement that Isoko needs now – Warri Eriques 

By
Isoko Nation News
-

The phrase ‘Okugbe Avo Ogaga’ – UNITY is STRENGTH is a bold statement that the lsoko need now more than ever to accelerate development and prominence in Delta state and Nigeria at large

ltsekiri nation over the years is the most united and coordinated tribe in Delta state; if you want to talk about UNITY of purpose, and to achieve a particular desire, they are first in line.

They have put in place deliberate structures and measures that accommodate, negotiate and share opportunities that are valuably beneficial among themselves, though presumably smaller in population comparatively but that do not count compared to their achievements as a people through the instrumentality of UNITY.

The itsekiris are well documented people, intellectually, educationally and operationally in every sphere, all embedded in their profound UNITY.

In ditto vein and most recently the ljaws have identified this power of UNITY and have taken over, already topping the chart and waxing stronger by the day . They have come to terms that UNITY is a GREAT ARMY of liberation and development.

The ljaws of today unlike before are coordinating and operating digitally in brotherhood which gets everyone talking and envy of them.

UNITY is STRENGTH

Warri Eriques
Publisher lntel Media
Asaba Delta state

Irri Monarch Tours Communities In His Kingdom To Foster Peace, Unity

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror/Solomon Akora

In a bid to foster peace, unity and togetherness among his subjects, the Odiologbo of Irri Kingdom HRM, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, paid a one week familiarization visit to all the communities in his Kingdom both in Delta and Bayelsa State.

Communities visited include Ogboko-Irri, Warri-Irri in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, Kenan-Irri in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Orie-Irri, Ivori-Irri, Utue-Irri, Ivrogbo-Irri, Uro-Irri, Idheze-Irri and Ada-Irri in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State respectively.

In an interview with newsmen during the familiarization tour that started and culminated on Friday 9th May, 2025 at Irri town hall, HRM, Wajutome Odhomo,  said that, “as a new Monarch, I have to go round all the communities in my Kingdom, the ones in Bayelsa State and Ndokwa East and Isoko South Local Government Area in Delta State for on-the-spot assessment of situations.”

He noted that, most communities in his Kingdom are lacking social amenities, appealing to the Federal and State government to come to their aid to make life more meaningful to them.

He further said that most of the communities need electricity supply, good road network, pipeborne water, noting that government presence is needed in nearly all the communities in his Kingdom.

On his part, Chief Adonis Ubuwere, President General of Irri Federal Union, said that the purpose of the familiarization visit is to harmonize all the communities in Irri Kingdom to be peaceful and united.

He emphasized that the visit is also to ensure mechanism to settle quarrels, land dispute and marriage issues in the Kingdom and other numerous things that can bring the communities to oneness.

He also said that, HRM, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, has promised to harmonize all marriage birth price in the Kingdom.

He lamented that most of the communities under the Kingdom are lacking social amenities, no government presence, no water, no good road network, health centre and electricity.

He also added that, there are numerous challenges that has bedeviled most of the communities that need government urgent intervention.

The President of Irri community, Mr John Ozaveva Eweh in his speech said that the community has experienced absolute peace and unity since HRM, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, ascended the throne of his ancestors, saying that he is well respected in Delta State and beyond and all the communities in the Kingdom must accord him that honour.

He however promised that, his executive will work in collaboration with the Monarch to ensure peace, development and unity in the community.

Highlights of the event were cultural dance by women of various communities of the Kingdom.

Engr. Ashaka, Hon. Egbabor, Many Other PDP Bigwigs Formally Join APC, Ozoro Ward 3

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Michael Ilaya

Prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and supporters including, a renowned philanthropist, Engineer Ashaka Orobosa Maro, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor – Former Council Chairman and a host of other PDP Bigwigs have, Friday formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In the frenzy of political realignment, the APC Ozoro Ward 111 witnessed the formal defection of prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and members to the APC party following similar defections across Delta State and reflects growing alignment with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.

Key PDP personalities who officially joined the APC include current and former elected officials, party executives, and Special Advisers to both State and Federal elected and appointed officials, signaling a holistic shift in the ward’s political architecture.
The APC leadership welcomed the new members with assurances of equal opportunities, emphasising that the party’s canopy is big enough to accommodate all progress-minded individuals regardless of their political antecedents.

The event was marked by speeches from key personalities, including Hon. Emmanuel Ajiri Egbabor, who stated that their cardinal mission was the desire to “perfect what was initiated in Asaba by the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori” in addition to fostering the spirit of inclusivity, where party lines should be put aside for the sake of brotherhood, community progress, unity of purpose and mutual respect.

He therefore urged APC members to dispel rumours of “overtaking,” emphasising unity within the party to attract more development to the ward, stating that Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor, though absent, remains aligned with the APC family.

Addressing the gathering, Hon Barr. Odior Bernard , Majority Chief Whip and member representing Isoko North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA), declared that all members of the DTHA are united under the APC to key in the Delta State Governor ‘More Agenda Mantra’.

He announced plans for an upcoming official defection of Ozoro Ward 10 and promised equal treatment and benefits for all members to foster party growth.

Also speaking, Hon. William Omoviro (Kingibe), leader of Ozoro APC, formally received the PDP defectors, assuring them of fairness and equal rights within the party, stressing that APC operates without segregation, offering the same privileges to both old and new members.

Amongst the PDP Defectors in attendance include Engr. Ashaka Orobosa Maro, Hon. Bernard Odior – Majority Chief Whip DTHA, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor – Former Council Chairman , Hon. Otheremu Joseph– Former Council Vice Chairman & Ex-National Assembly Commission Rep, and Hon. Sunny Elueni – SSA to Hon. Ajiroghene Ukodhiko.

Others were Hon. Pascal Emeluaha – Councillor, Ozoro Ward 3 & Leader of the House, Hon. Inonoje Emmanuel (Foscobo) – OPU Vice President , Hon. Utuodor Sunday – Former Council Secretary , Comr. Ogba Charles – CEO/MD, Our Choice Motors, Barr. Imonina Sylvester – SSA on Political Matters to Governor Sheriff, Dr. Andrews Elueni – Former SSA on Economic Planning to Ex-Gov. Okowa , Elder Silver Okoro – Former Community Chairman, Hon. Gladys Otugwo– SSA on Political Matters to the Governor, Chief Ejemite – Former OPU President , Mr. Lucky Akarie – Former PDP Ward 3 Chairman , Comr. Akudo Orobo – SA on Youth Mobilization to the Governor.

The APC Bigwigs and representatives present were Barr. Daniel Emebuno– APC Isoko North LG Chairman, Hon. William Omoviro (Kingibe) – Ozoro APC Leader, Hon. Dr. Enahoro Michael – 2023 APC HoA Candidate, Mr. Michael Owhofasa – APC Ward 3 Chairman and Mr. David Edafe -Ward Secretary.

Other APC stalwarts present were Pst. Patrick Ichofu, Mr. Paul Ezie, Comr. Sagacious Louis, Onaemor – Former SLA to the 9th National Assembly , Barr. Jim Elueni, Odio Sunday Emoredo, Chief Etenero Tesla, Rotn. Ulueme Abraham, Mr. David Onorioma – APC LGA Secretary, Madam Martha Othowhora – Ward Women Leader , Comr. Joel Omorojo and Hon. Mark Odoko (Oloye) – APC Vice Chairmanship Candidate 2024 among other APC faithful.

Deltans have more to gain from Governor Oborevwori’s defection to APC – Hon. Ogorugba

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Joshua Alebe 

The Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Government, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has described Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a major gain for Delta State.

He commended the governor for his bold and strategic move, which he believes will strengthen the state’s alignment with the federal government and attract more developmental benefits under the Tinubu-led administration.

Hon. Ogorugba made this known last Monday during an interview with Leadership Hub for Justice and Economic Advancement (LJE Nigeria) in his office at Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Council, Delta state.

He also expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for his consistent support for local government administrations across the state. According to him, Delta is one of the few states not celebrating the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy because Governor Oborevwori has never tampered with council funds.

“Delta State has been fortunate to have governors, including the current one, who have respected the financial autonomy of local governments and gone the extra mile to support them. That is why the recent Supreme Court ruling did not spark any jubilation here, we already enjoyed that autonomy,” he said.

Highlighting his achievements in Infrastructure and Governance, Hon. Ogorugba noted that major projects are ongoing at the council secretariat, including the nearly completed Administrative Complex, perimeter fencing, and a modern gatehouse.

He revealed that nine roads are currently being rehabilitated across the LGA, with new streets being opened up, and staff quarters for nurses are under construction in all 18 health centres.

“We’re building new staff quarters and rehabilitating existing ones for nurses in all health centres across the local government. We’re also planning to install solar panels to reduce dependence on generators and ensure uninterrupted services, especially for night-duty staff,” he explained.

On empowerment, Ogorugba highlighted the construction and renovation of over 200 shops across the LGA, digital skills training for youth, and women empowerment initiatives.

He emphasized the importance of food security and disclosed plans to provide farm inputs, fertilizers, and financial support to women farmers in order to improve their productivity and standard of living.

“If people can not feed themselves, it is a serious issue. That is why we are empowering our women in the next few months with farming tools and resources they need to be productive and self-reliant,” he added.

In the area of education, the chairman noted that the council has taken over the fees for all Primary Six pupils and is working towards a near-free primary education system, which includes the provision of notebooks, textbooks, sandals, bags and report cards.

“Our responsibility lies in primary education, and we are stepping in to support rural families struggling to educate their children. This includes both financial assistance and learning materials,” he stated.

Speaking on security, Hon. Ogorugba commended the efforts of security agencies for working in synergy which have drastically reduced the crime rate within the university community and the entire local government, disclosing the ongoing plans to equip the newly formed local vigilante groups to be more proactive in security intelligence gathering and better protect communities within the Local Government Area.

The Council Boss reaffirmed his support for the Renew Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and MORE Agenda of His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State and his laudable decision to join the APC, describing it as a step that would further integrate Delta State into national development efforts.

Gen. Omu  was an  exceptional statesman  – Chief Iduh

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Emmanuel Ekebe

The late Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu has been described as an exceptional statesman whose patriotic zeal towards his place of birth and country are worthy of emulation.

This assertion was made by High Chief Iduh Amadhe in reaction to the death of the former governor of old Cross river state who passed on earlier this week at 84.

Chief Iduh who is the Grand Patron of the Isoko Development Union (IDU) stated that he served under the late General in several committees in the course of advancing the interest of the Isoko nation and Delta state in general. These include the Committee for the development of Oleh campus of Delta State University (DELSU), Restoration of peace in Oleh among others.

According to the multiple Chief, he took over the mantle of the IDU leadership from General Omu in 2015 and that the experiences he acquired from the tutoring of the late General cannot be quantified.

Chief Iduh recalled that General Omu while serving as a member of the then Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council had championed the linkage of Isoko land to the national grid and had as well effectively placed Isoko in the national map due to his exemplary services to the country both in and outside the military.

While praying for the repose of the departed Othuke of Isoko land, Chief Iduh enjoined the Omu family to bear the great loss with fortitude as the man lived a selfless and worthy life with inimitable landmark legacies that should be celebrated from generation to generation.

IMMUNISATION : Isoko South Council Boss Friday Warri Charges Nursing Mothers to take Advantage of Exercise

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Matthew Unyove

Nursing mothers in Isoko South Local Government area of Delta State have been charged by the Council Chairman, Hon. Friday Warri, to avail themselves of the immunization exercise during a flag off ceremony to ensure that their children and wards are immunized to eradicate polio and other deadly diseases from the communities.
The charge was given Saturday by the Council Chairman during the immunization flag off ceremony with the Theme: kick out polio from our communies.
The Isoko South Local Government Chairman who was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Aziakpono Osuofa, highlighted the effectiveness and importance of the immunization to include boosting of the immunity of the children to fight against diseases.
He also caustioned nursing mothers, school owners and churches not to reject the immunization because any child left out in the immunization is proned to the dangers of such diseases.
The Secretary however, appreciated the President, Women Leader and the Exco of Aviara community for turning out in their large numbers for the flag off exercise.
Speaking further, he however commended the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon. Francis Oborevowri for his huge support towards the immunization in line with his mantra of MORE Agenda in substainable health delivery to all Deltans.
Also speaking, the Supervisory Councilor for Health, Mr Mano Onoriomu advised mothers to release their children and wards for immunization whenever health workers call on them for routine immunization.
He called on relevant stakeholders, especially private school owners, children, mothers, fathers and patners to collaborate with government’s commitment towards immunization to yield the desired result.
Mr Mano also emphasized government huge investment in immunization so as to eradicate different diseases that plague our children.
Other speakers representing different bodies and partners such as the Isoko South Primary Health Development Authority and World Health Organization (WHO) were on the consensus of the efficacy of the immunization drugs that would fight against diseases in children.

Highlight of the ceremony was the official administration of the vaccine on the children by the Council Secretary, Hon. Aziakpono Osuofa, Mr Mano Onoriomu, Supervisor for Health as well as Supervisor for Community, Beauty Alex- Omu.
Present during the flagging off ceremony were Hon. Goodluck Abedi – Supervisor for Agriculture, Executive Secretary Representative – Mr. Esejobo Daniel, Isoko South Directors of information – Mrs. Okweri Ewoma and Unyove Matthew, Health officials as well as Aviara Community Executive members.

HARVEST OF DEFECTORS: APC Welcomes Chief Askia Ogieh to Her Fold

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Jonadab Edede

Former Managing Director, Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Askia Ogieh, has formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) after defecting from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at Uzere, Isoko South Local Government Area,Delta State.
Hon. Askia and his ‘Hope Alive’ team who met with the leaders and members of APC Uzere Ward 04 at Ogri Primary School, Uzere to further declare his intentions to join the APC was warmly received by the APC Ward executives and members, led by the Party’s Local Government Area Chairman, Comrade Vincent Egbogbo who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Mr K.C Egwero.
In his speech, Askia assured the members of APC that “I and my team have genuinely come to join the party from the grassroot and our coming to APC is to work for the victory of the party at all levels”
Speaking further, he allayed the fears of old APC members who thought they were coming to take over the party from the legacy members and do away with it for their personal gains.
Chief Askia emphasised that he and his people have come to work for the party and not to take over party structure.
Speaking earlier, on behalf of the Chairman, the APC Ward Vice Chairman, Mr Egwero saluted the courage of Chief Askia and his team and enjoined all Uzere old APC members to always be open-hearted to whoever that wants to decamp to APC, while appealing to other PDP members yet to decamp to feel free to do so .
Egwero assured Chief Askia and his team of equal treatment and once again, warmly welcomed him, and encouraged him to contribute to the party’s progress, harping on belief of the slogan of ‘The More the Merrier’.

Rep. Ukodhiko Mourns Late Elder-Statesman, Gen. Paul Omu

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror

Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has expressed sadness over the demise of former military Governor of defunct Southeastern State, Maj-Gen. Paul Omu. who passed on at the age of 84.

In a statement on Thursday, the House of Representatives member eulogized the one-time Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies for his patriotic zeal and visionary acumen, describing him as “a soldier’s soldiers“

According to the Federal legislator, “our leader, Gen. Omu, stouthearted, was a paragon of Isoko intelligence, foresight and industry. Incredibly persevering and brave, he was commissioned on July 25, 1963, and through hardwork rose to the pinnacle of the nation’s military profession.

“Displaying a highly commendable military ability and astuteness, the late Gen. Paul Omu diligently served Isoko, Delta State and our country with all his strength, intelligence and zeal and was a foremost elder-statesman who counsels were valued and useful

“As a committed federalist and nationalist, he was Commandant, Command and Staff College, Jaji (1985-1988), and Member of the Armed Force Ruling Council (AFRC).

“As a visionary, he was associated with footprints among which were the Margaret Ekpo International Airport and the University of Calabar that were built and established during when he was a Military Governor of the Southeastern State”

“It was the late Gen. Omu who headed the AFRC’s sub-commmittee that gave the recommendations that saw to the establishment of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) in 1993.

“The brilliant General was appointed as a member of the 2020 Delta State Vision Committee, and he was also a member of the 2014 National Conference at Abuja”

“Being a patriot, the love to ensure the unity and advancement of the Isoko ethnic nationality saw him becoming the President-General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU)”

Hon. Ukodhiko said: On behalf of the leaders and people of Isoko Federal Constituency, we mourn the demise of our highly esteemed father, leader and one of Nigeria’s finest military officers, Chief (Maj-Gen.) Paul Ufuoma Omu, (OFR), the Othuke of Isokoland.

“Our sincere condolences to and prayers of comfort for our mother, Sen. Stella Omu and the entire Omu family of Igbide Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government, praying for peaceful repose of the late military officer.” Hon. Ukodhiko prayed.

Delta PDP’s move to APC driven by state’s political interest – Rep. Ukodhiko

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has described the recent mass defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State as a bold and strategic step aimed at safeguarding the state’s political future.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Lunch Time Politics, Ukodhiko said the decision to join the APC was made after careful consideration and in the best interest of the state.

According to the lawmaker, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s move demonstrates leadership and a commitment to the collective interests of Deltans, rather than personal gain.

“Looking at the broader picture, the Governor is doing very well, as many have acknowledged. However, to secure the political future of the state, he had to take a decisive move that would carry everyone along,” Ukodhiko stated.

He noted that many political analysts have evaluated the national political climate and its implications for the PDP, observing that the party currently lacks a viable structure at the federal level.

“If I ask you today who the National Secretary of the PDP is, you probably wouldn’t know. That says a lot about the party’s current state,” he added. “Why would anyone want to remain in a party that has no clear future?”

Responding to questions about former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s alleged issues with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ukodhiko dismissed any connection between the defection and the former governor.

“The decision by the entire Delta State PDP to move to the APC is solely about securing the future of every Deltan, myself included,” he emphasized.

“As a representative of the Isoko Federal Constituency, we were uncertain about our political direction until this move was made.”

He explained that the governor responded to widespread concerns among stakeholders who repeatedly questioned the political future of the state.

“We needed to be in a place that offered stability and a better outlook for the state’s development. That’s why we chose the APC. It’s about the future, not about any individual,” Ukodhiko said.

He also pointed out that the state has been in opposition for the past ten years, a situation that he believes is no longer sustainable.

“We can’t continue to remain in the opposition, especially when the President has shown genuine love to Delta State. Let’s not forget that the First Lady is also from Delta. It would be unwise to stay disconnected from the center.”

Ukodhiko stressed the importance of being part of the ruling party to gain better access to federal support and influence national policies that affect the state.

“We can’t continue to rely solely on FAAC allocations. For effective policy implementation and development, we need the support of the federal government,” he said.

He further highlighted projects that the state government intends to undertake in collaboration with the federal government, including improvements in port infrastructure, electricity, and other critical sectors.

“Now that we are aligned with the federal government, we are in a better position to attract these developments and ensure meaningful progress for Delta State,” Ukodhiko stated.

Ogorugba Launches Digital Youth Skill Empowerment Programme in Isoko North

By
Isoko Nation News
-

By Kelvin Ohoror

The Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, officially launched the Digital Youth Skill Empowerment Programme today, April 29, 2025, to an enthusiastic gathering of participants.

Held at the NULGE Hall within the Isoko North Council Secretariat, the Programme attracted youths from all 13 wards of the local government.

With the theme “Building Skills, Unlocking Opportunities,” the initiative aims to provide practical training in key digital areas such as UI/UX Design, Project Management and Web Development.

In his remarks, Hon. Ogorugba urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity, emphasizing that global tech icons like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk started their journeys with a vision and commitment to learning.

“This program was initiated by the Local Government to empower our youths with vital digital skills because ICT is the future,” he said.

“We are in the age of Artificial Intelligence, and our people must not be left behind. By building the capacity of our young ones, we are ensuring they can compete globally.”

He encouraged attendees to stay committed throughout the training, noting that the acquired skills could soon serve as a means of livelihood.

Participants expressed gratitude to the Council Chairman for the initiative and pledged to remain dedicated.

Upon completion, trainees will receive starter packages to support their ventures in the digital space.

The Chairman was joined at the event by Chief Barr. Evelyn Aluta (Vice Chairman), Sir Vote Umukoro (Secretary to the Council), Mrs. Irene Onwodi (Head of Personnel Management), and HRM Queen Fejiro Elo Ogbogbo (Treasurer),

Others are Engr. Thomas Akpoedafe (Supervisor for Agriculture and Community Development), Amb. Egwu Oghenero Alakpodia (Supervisor for Works), Comr. Alebe Joshua (Supervisor for Environment), Mr. Oguye Isaiah (Supervisor for Works), and Heads of various departments amoniother dignitaries.

1...8910...27Page 9 of 27

Recent Posts

Popular Posts

Popular Category

© 2025 - Isoko Nation Newspaper