Delta Central lawmaker, Senator Ede Dafinone, has warned that renewed claims of ownership of Sapele land by Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri, were false, provocative, and a threat to public peace.
He urged Itsekiri leaders and the Uduaghan family to rein him in.
Reacting to a caveat issued by Chief Uduaghan against the January 24, 2026, foundation-laying of the Orodje of Okpe’s Sub-Palace in Sapele, Dafinone said the claims questioned settled law and established traditional authority.
The senator, who chairs the Sapele Okpe Community Land Trust Association, stated that all land in Sapele is owned by the Okpe people, stressing that Sapele is an indigenous Okpe town despite its cosmopolitan make-up.
He cited the Delta State Traditional Rulers Law, which recognises only the Orodje of Okpe as the traditional ruler of Sapele Local Government Area, saying “there is no indigenous Itsekiri community in Sapele and no statutory role for the Olu of Warri there”.
Dafinone said Chief Uduaghan had no standing to challenge the Okpe monarch, noting that the Alema title is not indigenous to Sapele and that the Orodje has maintained a sub-palace in the town for decades without objection.
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) on Sunday declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure overwhelming victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the 2027 general elections.
He spoke wjen the Sapele chapter of the Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency, OSU, was inaugurated.
Dafinone, who addressed thousands of party members and supporters at the Sapele Local Government Council Secretariat, Sapele, said the APC was not aiming for narrow victories but for massive votes that would strengthen the constituency’s political relevance.
According to him, Sapele’s performance at the polls would determine the level of attention and development it attracts, stressing that strong voter turnout was critical to the area’s future.
The senator urged party members to demonstrate unity and visible loyalty to both the state and federal governments, noting that sustained support for President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was necessary for the dividends of democracy to reach the grassroots.
He congratulated the newly inaugurated executives of the Sapele chapter of OSU, assuring them of the support of his office and charging them to ensure that the APC recorded clear victories across all wards in the area.
The inauguration attracted a large turnout of supporters from across Sapele, with the council secretariat and adjoining spaces filled by party members dressed predominantly in yellow and white colours.
OSU Coordinator, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, said the OSU structure was formed on April 4, 2025, to rally support for what he described as a performing government at both the federal and state levels.
Ighrakpata noted that the body brought together members across political and ethnic lines, united by confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.
A former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State, Barr Kingsley Esiso, who also addressed the gathering, said the objective of OSU was to ensure that Governor Oborevwori returned to Government House in 2027.
He urged the newly inaugurated executives to immediately commence grassroots mobilisation, including party registration and voter engagement across communities in Sapele.
Deputy Chairman of the APC in Delta State, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, said the turnout reflected growing confidence in the APC, adding that the party was consolidating its base ahead of the next general elections.
Delta Central Senator, Olorogun Ede Dafinone, has announced a new partnership with Scholara, an AI-powered learning platform, aimed at expanding access to modern digital education for students across the the senatorial district.
The initiative will see Scholara’s learning platform deployed in public secondary schools across the district, strengthening ongoing investments in ICT infrastructure.
According to a statement on his official Facebook page, the platform provides personalized academic support to help students learn, revise, and prepare more effectively for examinations.
University students from Delta Central are also eligible to benefit from the programme.
According to Senator Dafinone, the partnership reflects a broader commitment to building an educated and empowered society by equipping young people with relevant, technology-driven learning tools tailored to the Nigerian education system.
Students, parents, and educators have been encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to improve learning outcomes and better prepare students for the future.
Senator Ede Dafinone has assured the Delta Central Senatorial District and Urhobo Nation that 2026 holds fresh hope, greater opportunities and accelerated development, expressing it will outperform 2025 based on positive economic indicators.
In a New Year message on January 1, the senator noted that while the district may not yet be where it aspires to be, it has made measurable progress driven by resilience and collective determination.
Dafinone urged residents, particularly those in rural communities, to remain focused and industrious, stressing that local businesses and traditional occupations remain critical to growth and prosperity.
He highlighted the existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government as a rare opportunity to fast-track development across the state, with Delta Central positioned to benefit significantly.
Calling for unity and a forward-looking mindset among the Urhobo Nation, the senator reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government to ensure that development reaches every part of Delta Central.
He expressed confidence that 2026 will be a year marked by progress, inclusion, and renewed hope for the district and its people.
According to him: “As we step into the year 2026, I extend my heartfelt goodwill and best wishes to the people of Delta Central Senatorial District and the entire Urhobo Nation. I am very optimistic that this year will be far better than 2025, from available economic indicators.
“We may not yet be exactly where we aspire to be as a people, but we are certainly not where we used to be. Our collective journey has been marked by progress, resilience, and determination, and this gives me strong confidence that 2026 will be a year of greater opportunity and meaningful advancement.
“I call on our people, particularly those in our rural communities, to remain steadfast and focused. The people of Delta Central are known for their resourcefulness and industry. I urge you to continue to pursue your businesses and traditional occupations with dedication, as they remain vital to our growth and prosperity.
“The existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government offers a unique opportunity to fast-track development. This synergy, if properly harnessed, will bring tangible benefits to Delta State in general and Delta Central in particular.
“I urge the Urhobo Nation to remain forward-looking, united, and positive as we embrace the new year. I remain committed to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government as partners to ensure that what is due to Delta Central is fully delivered and that development reaches every part of our district.
“I am confident that 2026 will be a great year for Delta Central and the Urhobo Nation—a year of progress, inclusion, and renewed hope.”
Senator representing Delta Central, Ede Dafinone, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State to embrace unity and inclusiveness as the party works to build a stronger structure capable of winning all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at an end-of-year luncheon for APC members from the eight local government areas of Delta Central at his residence on Tuesday, Dafinone said the party must learn from its shortcomings in the 2023 polls and deliberately strengthen internal cohesion.
He called on his supporters to work with new party members, stressing that unity remains the APC’s greatest strength and the foundation for future electoral success.
The senator reminded party members that the APC now controls both the federal and state governments, urging total support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
“We are all APC. Our governor, Elder Sheriff Oborewori is APC. Our president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is APC. So, we must continue to support them and their policies fully. We must work together, federal, state and local government as one big family.”
Dafinone praised President Tinubu’s leadership, saying his economic reforms, though painful, were necessary for long-term stability.
“The removal of subsidy was painful, because the petroleum subsidy payment was benefiting only a few. But today, things are beginning to adjust, the price of food items is coming down, and Nigeria will be better for it,” he said.
Urging party members not to lose faith, he called for patience and collective resolve, stating, “Stay strong. Stay united. Keep believing. Together, we will move forward.”
Describing the gathering as a family reunion, Dafinone assured supporters of his accessibility and commitment to their welfare.
“I call you my family because that is what you are,” he said, adding that his leadership would always be measured by the impact he makes on people’s lives.
On party affairs, the senator noted that although the APC did not produce the governor in 2023, its current alignment with the state government presents renewed opportunities.
“Today, the governor is with us, and that means the dividends of democracy are closer than ever,” he stated.
APC leaders in Delta Central, including Adelabu Bodjor, Chief Able Idigun and Chief Tuesday Onoge, commended Dafinone’s performance in the Senate and expressed confidence that he would deliver more if re-elected in 2027.
The event was attended by party leaders, youth and women representatives, and other stakeholders, and ended with a renewed call for unity ahead of the new year and the 2027 elections.
The Senator representing Delta Central, Olorogun Ede Dafinone; Senior Advocates of Nigeria – Chief Thompson Okpoko, Chief (Dr.) Charles Edosomwan, the Obasuyi of Benin Kingdom, Mr. Charles Ajuyah, Kunle Edun, business tycoons – Engr. Alfred Okoigun, founder of Arco Group, Roy Ilegbodu, Chief Executive Officer, Arik Air, were among top dignitaries that stormed Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State at the weekend, for the coronation of Albert Akpomudje SAN as His Majesty Alaka-Eyanvwien I, the 14th Ohworode of Olomu.
The historic occasion coincided with the birthday of the new monarch who is the Vice Chairman, Nigerian Body of Benchers, as well as the worldwide President of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association.
The crowning ceremony held at Otorere, the traditional headquarters of Olomu, followed by a lavish reception at Akperhe-Olomu, the home community of the new king.
Speaking briefly, the new Ohworode thanked the people for choosing him as king, vowing that he will serve them faithfully.
“I will first thank them for deeming it fit to make me king. I am very grateful to them. And I want to pledge that I will serve them faithfully. I am going to be a servant-leader. And I will pray for progress,” he declared.
Earlier Alaka-Eyanwien I was crowned by Olorogun Philip Atuduhor, the Okpako r’ Ilorogun (oldest chief) of Olomu Kingdom at the Eyanvwien Hall around 9:43am.
He was later consecrated by the Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion of Nigeria, Bishop (Dr.) Cyril Odutemu. This was followed by 21 cannon shots to signal the official ascent to the throne and pledging of allegiance by key traditional chiefs of the kingdom.
The symbolism of his new title draws from Eyanvwien, the first son of Alaka, a co-founder of the kingdom.
After the crowning, the monarch was led in a motorcade to Oviri-Olomu, headquarters of the Eyanvwien Ruling House, where 14 cannon shots were fired to signify his coronation as the 14th Ohworode, before he was received at his palace for celebrations.
In their respective goodwill messages, Senator Dafinone, Engr Okoigun and Ilegbodu congratulated the monarch, expressing confidence that he would bring his wealth of experience to lead and turnaround the kingdom for better.
Royal fathers at the event were His Majesties Udurhie I who represented the Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council, Eruvwedede III, the Ovie of Evwreni; Oyise I, the Ovie of Uwheru; Ogiogio II, the Pere of Ngbilebiri-Mein, Kiagbodo and the Pere of Egbema Clan, Bayelsa state.
Other prominent personalities who attended the ceremony include Mr Sam Amuka, Publisher of Vanguard newspapers; renowned businessmen – High Chief Johnbull Ejovi, Arc. Charles Majorho, Chief Simeon Ohwofa; Olorogun Uloho; serving and retired Judges, members of the Nigerian Bar Association – Warri and Udu branches, former Delta Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Otomevwo and the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Orogun, Professor Duke Okoro.
Also at the event were alumni of the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association, Edo College Old Boys Association, University of Lagos Alumni, Forum for Local Government Nurses, among others.
The Senate has directed an immediate investigation and rehabilitation of the Ujevwu–Itakpe rail corridor following a motion by Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), who raised the alarm over recurring derailments, service suspensions, and growing safety concerns on the strategic national line.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Senator Dafinone described the frequent derailments and poor maintenance of the Ujevwu–Itakpe Train Line as a threat to passenger safety and national economic growth. He called for “an urgent investigation, full rehabilitation, and stronger safety measures to protect passengers and safeguard this vital national infrastructure.”
The Ujevwu–Itakpe corridor, which connects the South-South through Delta State to the North-Central region, serves as a major route for passengers, goods, and industrial materials. Dafinone emphasised that the line’s deterioration and repeated service interruptions have caused hardship for commuters and disrupted supply chains vital to the nation’s economy.
The Delta Central lawmaker also urged the Federal Government to extend the rail line from Itakpe to Abuja to achieve “full national rail connectivity,” improve maintenance systems, and expand the operational fleet to meet the growing demand for passenger and cargo movement.
Following deliberations, the Senate unanimously adopted all resolutions contained in the motion, mandating immediate repairs of vandalised tracks, a comprehensive investigation into Nigeria’s rail infrastructure, and the consideration of the proposed Itakpe–Abuja extension.
Senator Dafinone noted that the motion “reinforces our commitment to a safer, modern, and efficient rail system that drives economic growth and national development,” stressing that a reliable rail network remains critical to Nigeria’s industrial and regional integration efforts.
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has felicitated former Delta Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, on his 71st birthday, describing him as a statesman whose leadership continues to inspire generations across the Niger Delta.
In a statement by the Senator, Dafinone lauded Dr. Uduaghan’s tenure as Governor, noting that his administration laid “significant groundwork for socio-economic stability” in Delta State through landmark investments in healthcare, education, and security—pillars upon which successive governments continue to build.
The Delta central lawmaker’s statement reads: “I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my felicitations to the former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, on the joyous occasion of his 71st birthday.
“His tenure as Governor laid significant groundwork for socio-economic stability, particularly through his landmark commitment to healthcare, education, and security, creating a sustainable foundation upon which subsequent administrations continue to build.
“On this special day, we celebrate not just the milestone of 71 years, but the enduring legacy of a man whose political maturity and sagacity have continued to inspire many across the Niger Delta region. Dr. Uduaghan’s wise counsel and commitment to fostering unity remain invaluable assets to our state’s political landscape.
“On behalf of the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I join his family, friends, and associates in giving thanks to God for his continued health, grace, and wisdom.
“May the years ahead be filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and renewed strength to continue mentoring the next generation of leaders. We pray that he continues to enjoy many more years in service to humanity. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!”
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and hopeful as the country celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary.
In his goodwill message to the people of Delta Central, the Niger Delta and all Nigerians, Dafinone described the milestone as both a celebration of sovereignty and a moment of sober reflection on the nation’s struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of unity.
Acknowledging the economic hardship faced by households and businesses, he urged citizens not to lose sight of the bigger picture, stressing that meaningful reforms often come with sacrifices but ultimately pave the way for stability and prosperity.
“As we celebrate our independence, let us rekindle our hope and strengthen our resolve to build a Nigeria that works for all,” Dafinone declared, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for the interests of Delta Central in the Senate and ensuring the voice of his people is heard.
He prayed for renewed love for the nation and a greater determination to see Nigeria succeed, concluding: “God bless Delta Central, God bless Delta State, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
According to him: “As we gather in unity to mark the 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence on October 1st, I bring you warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations. This milestone is not just a celebration of our sovereignty, but a solemn reflection on our collective journey — our struggles, our triumphs, and the enduring spirit that binds us as one people. From the industrious communities of Delta Central to every part of our great country, this is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to the Nigerian dream — one built on resilience, justice, and shared prosperity.
“I am aware that we are navigating through challenging times. The impact of economic reforms, inflation, and evolving global dynamics has placed significant strain on households and businesses alike. However, we must not lose sight of the bigger picture. Let us not be disheartened by temporary hardship. Change, especially meaningful change, often comes with sacrifices.
“As we celebrate our independence, let us rekindle our hope and strengthen our resolve to build a Nigeria that works for all.
“I remain committed to advocating for the interests of Delta Central in the Senate and to ensuring that the voice of our people is heard and respected. May this Independence Day renew in us a deeper love for our nation and a greater determination to see her succeed.”
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has raised alarm over what he described as the “disturbing wave of child abductions” in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, calling on security agencies to redouble efforts to curb the menace while urging residents to resist jungle justice.
In a statement on Thursday, the lawmaker said over six children aged between three and ten have gone missing in the community in recent months, sparking fear, protests, and violent reprisals.
“Reports show that in recent months, more than six children—many between the ages of three and ten—have gone missing, leaving families devastated and the community in fear,” he said.
He linked the crisis to a surge in incidents earlier in June when four disappearances were recorded, which later prompted women’s protests on September 16.
The tension boiled over on September 24 when an angry mob lynched a woman accused of attempted child abduction.
“While the community’s frustration is understandable, such acts of jungle justice only deepen the crisis and risk innocent lives,” Dafinone warned.
To the bereaved families, the Senator extended solidarity and empathy. “Your pain is our collective burden, and I pledge to continue pressing for answers and justice at the highest levels of government. Every missing child is a future we cannot afford to lose, and I will not relent until they are found and safety is restored,” he assured.
Dafinone specifically tasked the Delta Police Command, Ughelli Area Command, and federal agencies to “intensify investigations, strengthen patrols, and work closely with NAPTIP to dismantle any networks behind these abductions—whether ritual or trafficking-related.” He also urged Agbarho’s traditional leadership, led by the Ovie, to reinforce vigilance through neighbourhood watches, school partnerships, and parental awareness.
Calling for calm, the Senator concluded: “Let us resist jungle justice and instead channel our anger into unity, vigilance, and cooperation with law enforcement. Together, we will overcome this menace and restore peace to Agbarho, Ughelli North, and our beloved Delta State.”
