The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Group plans honour for ex-Governor Udom

    Group plans honour for ex-Governor Udom

    G35, a group of professionals in Akwa Ibom, is planning to honour the immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel for what it called his many achievements while in office.

    Accordingly, the group is instituting a maiden lecture in September to celebrate the former Governor as well as launch a magazine to espouse his landmark infrastructural accomplishments in the eight years of his administration.

    Leader of the G53, Mr. James Akpan, who disclosed this in a statement issued to the Nation on Friday, explained that professionals in the state cannot afford to ignore the enormous contributions of leaders in the state.

    Akpan stated that ex-Governor Emmanuel recorded numerous achievements in the areas of infrastructure, human capital empowerment, especially in the aviation sector as exemplified in the birth of Ibom Air.

    He said, “It is very important that a man who has done excellently well on human capital empowerment, infrastructural development, securing the lives of the state for 8 years must be celebrated after leaving office. 

    “Udom Emmanuel’s achievements have endeared him to the people. He created strategies for the state to be among the top development states in the country and beyond.

    Read Also: Tributes as Makinde, Ayedatiwa, Oyedepo, Udom join Bishop Wale Oke to lay mum to rest

    “He started Ibom Air that has become a strong brand today, transited very peacefully to another without violence as was recorded In many places.

    “Udom built institutions, people, and upheld the values of our the state into enviable heights. We cannot continue to ignore our leaders when they leave their office. The practice must stop because it would encourage incoming leaders to do more for us. W are breaking the record.

    “We are not hosting the former governor and also instituting Udom Emmanuel’s first annual lecture on sustainable leaders with the launching of a magazine of his achievements in 8 years”.

    Akpan said that the annual lecture will be sponsored by the G35 as a way  setting the pace to promote good leadership in Akwa Ibom state and beyond.

    “We are committed to promoting leadership in the state and beyond. Our people’s achievements around the world must be celebrated. The programme is slated for September 2024 , everything is ready and cultural and carnivals will be displayed.

    “We will showcase the Akwa Ibom spirit of love unity and togetherness because udom Emmanuel’s is a unifier. His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno will be invited as the special guest of Honour as we are ready to celebrate the great son of Akwa Ibom who did us proud”,  the statement added.

  • Dafinone donates food items to Okuama IDP Camp

    Dafinone donates food items to Okuama IDP Camp

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has presented food items worth millions to the people of Okuama at the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons Camp at Ewu-Urhobo community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

    The lawmaker also called on the Federal Government to work with the Delta State government and commence the process of rebuilding and resettling the people of Okuama in their ancestral home.

    He also appealed to international donor agencies to come to the aid of the Okuama people, noting that the situation at Okuama is an international humanitarian crisis that needs global efforts to rebuild and resettle the people.

    He called on the authorities of the Army to follow democratic principles in dealings with Okuama leaders arrested this week.

     Stressing that the rights of the civilians arrested must be respected and they should not be subjected to any form of abuse; rather, they should be brought to civil court to answer any allegations against them.

    The Senator, who presented two live cows, 100 cartoons of indomie noodles, 20 cartons of Soya oils and four bags of Garri, vowed not to rest on his oars until Okuama is rebuilt and the indigenes are returned to their ancestral homes.

    He said: “This is not one visit or one-stop matter as the plight of those that have been displaced must continue to resonate in the public space and the space of concerned Nigerians who seek to help to ensure that they are rehabilitated and then life continues normally as soon as possible.

    “Words reached me about a week ago that they were short of protein, and this visit was to deliver the two cows, 100 cartons of noodles, 20 cartons of Soya oils and four bags of garri. I know this does not solve the problem of the camp. But it is a small contribution towards maintaining the nutrition of the children and adults in the camp and on a larger and wider scale.

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    “Since my last visit, my office has continued to reach out to the federal government, and international agencies, to see what help can be provided, aides to those at the camp and rebuilding of Okuama which are the more significant matters that need to be brought to the attention not of Deltan but Nigerians and the global community as a whole.

    Senator Dafinone, who was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Olorogun Adelabu Bodjor and other APC faithful, disclosed that he is hoping to get positive reports soon and it is part of his assignments to look and care for citizens of Delta Central.

    Receiving the items, the Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, commended Senator Dafinone for standing with the people of Okuama in their trying time, noting Dafinone had been at the forefront in trying to resolve the Okuama crisis.

    Ogbodo, the former editor of the Guardian Newspaper, also called on well-meaning individuals and originations to support the ongoing efforts in rebuilding and resettling Okuama people to their ancestral homes.

    He said; “Senator, we can’t thank you enough that you are not just coming here for the first time; you have been involved in Okuama matter.

    “Right from day one, you have been so central to everything about this Okuama matter, when the king was taken into custody, you and your fellow national legislators were so deep in it.

    “You went all the way to ensure things went well, and the most beautiful thing you have said here now is that you are aware that new arrests have been made, and you are on it.

    “When you came the other time, you took a study survey of the place and needed to know our needs, and you didn’t come with only 100 cartons of indomie; you came with two live cows, and that is most significant.

    “As I have always noted, yes, you are a senator representing Delta Central, representing Urhobo ethnic nationality, but this a humanitarian crisis, and what we are projecting here is humanity that knows no religion, geographical boundaries or politics.

    “What we are talking about is to be united in times like this so that we can help ourselves, helping the children of God, and God will use his other children to help children that are in distress, and that is what you come here to do for us.

    “For the fact that you are an Urhobo may not be taken for granted because there other Urhobo that may not come in this manner.

    “I am using this opportunity to appeal to others, not just those that are in the cadre of leadership, but everybody with capacity and of goodwill should respond to this call because the people do not survive to leave here with the body and soul; they would not be able to take possession of their homes.”

  • Ex-agitators’ leader Oputu reaffirms loyalty to Tompolo

    Ex-agitators’ leader Oputu reaffirms loyalty to Tompolo

    Ex-Agitators’ Leader and Senior Special Assistant on Security to Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon. Aroni Oputu has reaffirmed his loyalty to High Chief Government O. Ekpemukpolo aka Tompolo.

    In a statement to newsmen, Oputu said it was necessitated by the misinterpretation in some quarters, following his comment sometimes ago, calling on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, for a direct award of a portion of the pipeline security and surveillance contract in Egbema Kingdom of Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.

    He said: “I wish to use this medium to emphatically reaffirm my unflinching loyalty and respect for High Chief Government O.Ekpemupolo, a.k.a.Tompolo. My loyalty to my most revered leader is unflinching, undiluted and unimpeachable.

    “This public reaffirmation is necessitated by the misinterpretation in some quarters, of my press statement calling on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to award us direct pipeline security and surveillance contract in Egbema Kingdom of Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.”

    Oputu, who was also one-time Special Assistant to ex-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, noted that; “the said press statement at that time, was not intended to cause disaffection between us and our Leader, High Chief Government O. Ekpemupolo nor was it intended to discredit him or any Niger Delta stakeholder.

    “Our Leader is doing so much for us and his security and surveillance company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited is doing a perfect and fantastic job but we also just wanted to be directly involved in the pipeline security and surveillance contract process with the NNPC LTD.

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    “I therefore advice those who are bent on exploiting the above-stated situation to further cause disaffection between me and my most revered leader for selfish and pecuniary reasons,to desist from such divisive acts and rather focus on promoting peace and unity among us”

    Continuing, he said: “I wish to also use this medium to commend the management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for its efficient and effective management of the operations of the company and for the groundbreaking success of the company in curtailing the criminal activities of oil thieves and vandals in the Niger Delta region.

    “Finally, I hereby mostly sincerely congratulate my most revered leader, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a.k.a.Tompolo, and the management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited for the renewal of its pipeline security and surveillance contract with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited,” he added.

  • Itsekiri Nation remains committed to equity, peace, justice- Olu of Warri

    Itsekiri Nation remains committed to equity, peace, justice- Olu of Warri

    The Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has expressed gratitude to God on ascension of his forebears throne three years ago. 

    He renewed the call for peace, social  justice and equity with his neighbors towards the development of the area.

    Speaking at a grand reception at the palace yesterday when subjects from across the various Iwere communities paid him homage as part of the activities to mark his 3rd Coronation Anniversary celebration, the Olu was full of praises and thanksgiving to God for the journey so far.

    The revered Monarch who spoke in English and Itsekiri languages, stated: “Three years ago, the Itsekiri nation extended hand of peace and collaboration to her neighbours on the land and sea. Since then, we’ve made significance strides in promoting peace and co-existence based on love and mutual respect for all.

     “We stand on the universal foundation of justice and peace and equity within the rule of law and we are committed to maintaining this peaceful and respectful relationships ensuring the safety and peace of all. Our progress is a testimony to our commitment to this end.

    “Last year, we varnished the term slaves from our palace because we believe that all are created equal by God. And this will affirm their beliefs in the equality of all. We re created by God and we have equal dignity but we are also committed to change. If we don’t change, we are dying.

    “Aghofen is the symbol of refuge and a place to seek refuge. We welcome all Itsekiris to the crown. 

    “Our collective dreams and aspirations can only be fulfilled through unity. If I may also add, humility.

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    “As Itsekiri people, looking back we may have good reason to have a sense of pride and that’s fine. But in going forward, there’s a type of pride that we must do away with. The pride that hinders, the pride that blinds, the pride that divides, the pride that carnibalises, the pride that betrays, the pride that destroys. 

    “We don’t have to remain proud and certainly don’t have to remain wicked. Not only has God given us authority over this Kingdom, He HS given us creative powers and He has given us powerful example by calling for light out of darkness. 

    “In this same way, Itsekiri, I call you out of useless pride. I call you out of wickedness and in its place, I bless you with wisdom, with vision, with industry, with creativity,with productivity and with fruitfulness. 

    “May your eyes be opened to embrace and appraise these new values as we embark on a new phase of togetherness in Iwere land. The new phase promises growth, prosperity and a stronger sense of commitment.”

    The event was attended by Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who was ably represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari and traditional rulers from across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

  • Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    Dafinone congratulates Olu of Warri on third coronation anniversary

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, on his third coronation anniversary. 

    The lawmaker, in a statement, described the Olu of Warri as a leader filled with wisdom, compassion, and a progressive vision for his people.

    The statement reads: “On this auspicious occasion of the third anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, Olu of Warri, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty, the royal family, and the entire people of the Itsekiri nation. 

    “This remarkable milestone marks three years of enlightened leadership, profound cultural preservation, and significant progress for the Itsekiri nation under the reign of His Majesty.

    “Since ascending the throne, Your Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III’s reign has been characterized by peace, development, and the promotion of unity among all ethnic groups within the kingdom. Your Majesty’s commitment to fostering harmony and supporting economic initiatives has greatly enhanced the welfare of his subjects and strengthened the Itsekiri identity on both national and global platforms.

    Read Also: Dafinone extols Professor Oyovbaire at 83

    “The Olu of Warri’s dynamic leadership, particularly in navigating the complexities of modern governance while upholding the rich traditions of the Itsekiri nation, is a testament to your foresight and deep-rooted commitment to the prosperity of your people. 

    “As we celebrate the third anniversary of your coronation, I join the people of Delta Central and the entire Delta State in wishing  Your Majesty continued wisdom, good health, and strength to carry on your noble responsibilities. 

    “May your reign continue to bring enduring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Itsekiri nation and may his legacy inspire future generations of leaders across our great nation.

    “Once again, congratulations to Your Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III on this significant occasion.”

  • Protect interest of micro-minorities In Niger Delta, panelist urges FG

    Protect interest of micro-minorities In Niger Delta, panelist urges FG

    A member of discussant panel at the 3rd Coronation Anniversary Lecture of the Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty, Ogiamme Atuwatse III, Chief Robinson Ariyo, the Egogo (Mouthpiece) of Warri Kingdom, has urged the federal government to set up a commission to protect the interest of Micro- Minorities in the Niger Delta region.

    Speaking on the anniversary lecture theme; “The challenges of ethnic minorities within the Nigerian State,” yesterday at the Olu’s Palace Auditorium (Aghofen), Chief Ariyo, decried the conceived oppression and marginalisation of the ethnic micro minorities by the majority ethnic groups even at the sub-regional level.

    He lamented the present arrangement where all three ethnic nationalities would collectively agitate for dividends of democracy either in terms of infrastructures or political appointments but when such finally comes the majority ethnic groups within the region would hijack it, leaving the micro-minorities with nothing to show for it at the end of the struggle.

    The Egogo of the Iwere kingdom suggested the need for the various micro-minorities to begin to come together to synergies on how to chat a common course of liberating themselves, urging the Itsekiri nation to see the Ogoni’s and other ethnic groups they shared this same status as allies, in order to protect their interest.

    Ariyo, a legal practitioner, also stressed the importance of proper implementation of existing laws and policies to protect the rights of micro-minorities and ensure their survival in a landscape dominated by more prominent minority groups, noting that Nigerian constitution guarantees the survival of all ethnic nationalities in any part of the country.

    However, the itsekiries who occupy three local government within the region, such as the Ecules, who predominantly reside in only three local government areas, argue that the definition of “minority” has been too broad and fails to capture their unique challenges.

    According to him: “within the Niger Delta, there are relative majorities who have benefitted significantly from the struggles of the so-called minorities.

    “This, they argued, has led to the oppression of micro-minorities by larger minority groups, particularly when it comes to accessing benefits from initiatives such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Amnesty office”

    Continuing he said: “The Amnesty office, established in response to the demands of the Niger Delta region, has been dominated by these larger minority groups.

    “This has led to the marginalization of micro-minorities, such as the Ogoni people, who now seek to form alliances with other micro-minorities to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are recognized.

    “The Itsekiri people, who are a minority within Delta State, have been systematically excluded from key positions in the state government.

    “Over the past nine years, itsekiries have been absent from top executive roles, including the positions of governor, deputy governor, and key commissioner posts in Delta State

    “The call to redefine “minority” is not just about semantics but about ensuring that all groups, particularly micro-minorities, receive fair representation and access to the benefits intended for marginalized communities.

    The ceremony witnessed Itsekiri sons and daughters in Delta State, paid homage to the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III as he celebrates his third (3rd) coronation anniversary. A delegation all over itsekiri lands

    The Itsekiri indigenes, who paid homage to the Revered Monarch were from Sapele, Bobi and Obonteghareda Communities.

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    Others are; Holy Covenant Church, Ugboegungun, Aja-Etan, Dibi Field home-based women, Itsekiri Staff of College of Education, Warri, Ugbajo-Itsekiri, delegation from Warri South Council and members of University of Benin Alumni Association, Warri chapter, also paid homage to the Monarch.

    The different groups, entertained the King with elegant dance steps and Itsekiri cultural songs, paying allegiance to the King’s reign on the exalted throne.

    The Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM. Ogiame Atuwatse III, flanked by his Queen, Olori Atuwatse III, later offered prayers to his subjects, including palace chiefs, who greeted him as tradition demands.

    Other panel of discussants included; Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, Sir A. S Mene, while Prof Benson Osadalor, former Acting VC Ambrose Ali University (AAU) delivered the main lecture of the day.

  • Igbuya praises Ibori, Dafinone, others for birthday felicitations

    Igbuya praises Ibori, Dafinone, others for birthday felicitations

    Delta State Representative, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Hon. Monday Igbuya, has praised Delta political leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori; Senator Ede Dafinone; Delta APC leaders, friends and associates for celebrating with him on his 68th birthday anniversary.

    Chief Igbuya, who was a former Delta Speaker, while commending those who came to celebrate with him in Sapele, urged politicians and public servants not to discard their childhood friends, noting that after the pep of office, they will retire home to meet them.

    He noted, that outside his political associates, he has continued to keep and relate with them and enjoined others not to forsake their friends.

    According to him,: “God has been faithful, and may his name be praised! On this special occasion of my birthday, I want to humbly express my profound gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, mercy, and boundless love.

    “His faithfulness in my life has been immeasurable, and I remain deeply thankful for His continuous guidance, protection, and strength that has carried me through the journey of life. Each day is a gift, and today, I celebrate not just the years, but the countless blessings and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today.

    Read Also: Barau, Northern Senators’ Forum laud Babangida at 83

    “I also want to thank my Boss, His Excellency Chief James Onanefe Ibori, for his love and continued support towards me and my family; I am eternally grateful to him and don’t take his love for granted.

    “I am overwhelmed by the show of love. I am thankful to my brother and our Senator, Senator Ede Dafinone for coming to celebrate with me.

    “I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Delta State in various capacities, most recently as their representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and as a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

    “These roles have been both humbling and inspiring, and I thank God for the wisdom He has provided to lead with integrity and commitment. The trust the people have placed in me is something I cherish deeply, and I remain dedicated to continuing my efforts in advancing the development and welfare of our great state and the Niger Delta region.

    “Finally, I want to thank my family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their unwavering support, prayers, and encouragement. As I reflect on this milestone, I am filled with immense gratitude and look forward to the future with optimism and hope, knowing that God’s hand will continue to guide my path. I remain committed to the service of our people, and I pray for continued peace, prosperity, and progress for Delta State and our beloved country, Nigeria. Thank you, and may God bless us all.”

  • Taiga, UPU Ireland donate relief materials to Okuama IDP camp

    Taiga, UPU Ireland donate relief materials to Okuama IDP camp

    As support continues to flow the way of ravaged Okuama community in Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom of Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, the immediate past President General of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Olorogun Moses Taiga and UPU Ireland have presented relief materials worth millions to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp.

    The donors said the gesture was to support efforts of the Delta State Government in bringing succour to the IDPs and the entire Okuama community in their difficult moments.

    Okuama indigenes have been homeless since March 2024 after soldiers of the Nigerian military carried out a reprisal attack on the community following the gruesome murder of 17 military personnel by unknown gunmen around the community.

    The military during the attack destroyed every building, including hospital, schools and other private buildings in the once-bubbling agrarian community leaving thousands of residents homeless.

    Following the incident, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori established an IDP camp to temporarily house the displaced Okuama residents pending the rebuilding of the town.

    Olorogun Taiga and UPU Ireland made the donations at two separate ceremonies on Friday at the IDP Camp in Ewu town in Ughelli South LGA.

    Presenting the food items including a live cow, bags of rice and others to the chairman and officials of the IDP Management Committee, Olorogun Taiga commended Governor Oborevwori and private individuals for providing support to the people of Okuama.

    The Urhobo leader, who was represented by his Personal Assistant, Chief Kenneth Young, said he stands in solidarity with the people of Okuama community in this difficult period of their lives.

    He commended efforts of Urhobo traditional rulers council, UPU, NGOs and other individuals for providing support for the people of Okuama community.

    Olorogun Taiga said: “First, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, for his decisive and compassionate leadership in establishing this humanitarian camp here in Ewu Town.

    ” In the darkest hours, when the people of Okuama were in desperate need of refuge, your swift action provided them with a haven, restoring hope amidst their despair. We are also encouraged by the news that the State Government has begun the rebuilding of Okuama, starting with the construction of a health centre and a classroom block. Your Excellency, for this and more, we are deeply grateful.

    “Indeed, our people are deeply rooted in their ancestral lands, not in camps. It is my fervent hope, bolstered by the assured and practical commitment of His Excellency, the Governor that our Okuama brethren will soon return to their homes, where they belong.

    “I also want to acknowledge the Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo, the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers,  Your Majesties, your unwavering solidarity with the people of Okuama is a powerful testament to our unity as Urhobos. Your continued support underscores the truth that when one of us is in pain, we all feel it. Ejuwe,  we thank you all for standing by our people during this challenging time.”

    The billionaire businessman further commended the Chairman of the IDP Management Committee, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo and his team for the excellent job they are doing at the Camp.

    “However, the road to recovery is still long, and we urge everyone to continue giving and supporting until our people can return home and rebuild their lives.To the resilient people of Okuama, your strength and courage in the face of such adversity are truly inspiring. You have endured so much, but please know that you are not alone. 

    “We stand with you, and we will continue to support you until you can return to your ancestral homeland.I must also extend a special thank you to the Ewu-Okuama Internally Displaced Persons Management Committee, led so capably by Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, former Editor of The Guardian newspaper, and the officials of this camp. The efforts made towards the well-being of the displaced are greatly appreciated. Your work reflects the highest ideals of patriotism and compassion.

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    “Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the media for their crucial role in highlighting the Okuama situation. Your coverage has been instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of the Okuama people and in rallying much-needed support. As we look ahead, let us all hold onto hope that the people of Okuama will soon return to their ancestral homes, rebuild their community, and restore their lives to normalcy”, Olorogun Taiga added.

    The Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Ireland Branch, also donated relief materials to the Ewu-Okuama IDP Camp for the feeding of the displaced persons.

    Among the items donated by the UPU Ireland include bags of rice, bags of beans, cartons of fish, gallons of groundnut and red oil, bags of garri and 50 tubers of yam.

    President of UPU Ireland, Chief Richard Iyede, Ph.D, told the camp officials and the IDPs that Urhobos in Ireland are greatly pained by the plight of Okuama people and had decided to donate the food items to help alleviate their sufferings.

    Represented by Mr. Henry Obus, Chief Iyede said “these items are from UPU Ireland. We came together to donate these relief materials to alleviate the suffering of Okuama people. He asked me to tell you that Urhobos in Ireland are solidly with you. We’ll continue to support you.”

    Receiving the relief materials, the Chairman of the IDP Management Committee, Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, flanked by other officials of the camp, thanked Olorogun Moses Taiga and the Chief Richard Iyede-led UPU Ireland for their donations to the Camp.

    Ogbodo, a former Editor of the Guardian Newspaper, noted that “The Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee wishes to sincerely thank and appreciate our father and leader, Olorogun Moses Taiga, for this generous donation. We are also grateful to the UPU Ireland under the leadership of Chief Richard Iyede for sending food items all the way from Ireland. This is very commendable by our brothers and sisters in Ireland.

    “As I have always said, the IDP Camp is one of the steps towards resettling Okuama people. The second step is the restoration of the community and the resettling of the IDPs in their ancestral homeland. This is currently on course. 

    “The Delta State government is taking the right step in plight of our people. I commend Governor Oborevwori for his proactive support to the people of Okuama.”

  • Edo 2024: PDP’s Ighodalo has capacity to govern successfully, says Nwaokobia

    Edo 2024: PDP’s Ighodalo has capacity to govern successfully, says Nwaokobia

    As the 2024 Edo State governorship election draws near, Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr., convener of the Country First Movement, has shared his perspective on the candidates, characterizing the race as both fascinating and predictable.

    Nwaokobia, a vocal advocate for good governance, emphasized the distinct nature of the upcoming election, suggesting it presents a clear choice for the Edo electorate.

    Nwaokobia pointed out that the 2024 governorship race in Edo State centers around three main candidates: Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), and Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    He argued that, given the candidates’ unique qualities, the election is likely to be one of the most straightforward in the state’s recent history.

    Nwaokobia singled out Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, as the most qualified and capable contender. He praised Ighodalo’s comprehensive manifesto, “Prosperity for All,” which details his vision and policies for the future of Edo State.

    Nwaokobia commended Ighodalo’s extensive consultations with Edo residents, both at home and abroad, and his commitment to bringing unity and prosperity to the state.

    He further emphasized Ighodalo’s impressive track record, noting his experience as chairman of several blue-chip companies and a successful law firm.

    Read Also: Edo 2024: Appeal Court’s CTC judgment affirms Ighodalo as PDP’s candidate

    Nwaokobia urged Edo voters to carefully consider Ighodalo’s qualifications and vision for the state, expressing confidence that Ighodalo’s candidacy meets the demands for justice, equity, and fairness in Edo, making him the most credible and capable candidate in the race.

    He said: “The choice of the Edo People is Astute Asue Ighodalo, fondly called A.I not the now famous Artificial Intelligence but called by his initials. He was the first of the leading three candidates to present his manifesto called prosperity for all to the Edo Electorate. In it, he set out his vision for an Edo State that works for all. He articulated his programs, policies and programmatic, and tells how he intends to achieve them.

    “He has consulted with the largest number of Edolites at home and in the Diaspora knowing that the challenge before the Edo People and the State is about forging a united Edo that works for the good and benefit of all. He has pledged to bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to bear in taking Edo State to a new level of progress and prosperity. And he means every bit of it.”

  • Lucky Ohimai donates street lights to Edo community

    Lucky Ohimai donates street lights to Edo community

    High Chief Lucky Ohimai, CEO of Tarex Conglomerate, has illuminated Sabongida Ora, Owan West, Edo State, with the installation of industrial solar street lights.

    Ohimai restated his commitment to serving the people of Edo while emphasising that the Edo people deserve even more development and progress with the support of the governorship candidate of Edo state, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

    Read Also: Edo poll: Ighodalo, Akpata unfold agenda

    With the forthcoming election, High Chief Ohimai seized the opportunity to urge the people of Owan land to come out in mass to vote for Senator Monday Okpebholo, who he believes will attract more projects and bring unprecedented growth to the region.

    He passionately appealed to the people to make their voices heard by voting for Senator Okpebholo, the candidate who will bring about the desired change and take Owan land to the next level of development.

    He said: “Let us unite and make our voices count! Vote Senator Monday Okpebholo for Governor of Edo State!”