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  • Senator Dafinone wishes Delta Central prosperous New Year

    Senator Dafinone wishes Delta Central prosperous New Year

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has sent New Year warm greetings to his constituents. 

    He assured them that 2024 will bring about positive changes and improvements.

    In his New Year message, Dafinone expressed  heartfelt gratitude to the constituents for their unwavering support throughout the year.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced by the District and promised to work with other critical stakeholders, including the Federal Government to address them.

    In 2924, Dafinone predicted a period of growth, collaboration, and positive change for the district, highlighting key priorities such as enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic empowerment initiatives. 

    Dafinone emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving these goals for the collective benefit of Delta Central. He urges the Urhobo people to engage with community leaders and welcomes constructive feedback from constituents.

    He also charged the Urhobo Nation to continue to support President Bola Tinubu-led administration and to align with its Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    Read Also: Dafinone mourns former ICAN President Ijewere

    He stressed that as the fifth largest ethnic group in the country, the Urhobo Nation cannot afford to be excluded from the mainstream of Nigerian politics.

    “As we bid farewell to the past year and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, let us reflect on the modest achievements of the past and envision a future filled with progress and prosperity,” he says.

    “I am profoundly grateful for the trust and support of the people of Delta Central. Together, we have achieved significant milestones, and I am optimistic that the coming year will bring even more opportunities for growth and development.

    “As we step into the New Year, I remain committed to fostering positive change, ensuring inclusivity, and contributing to the overall well-being of the people of Delta Central Senatorial District,” he stated. 

    He acknowledged that 2023 was a very challenging year for the nation and its people. 

    However, he believed that Nigeria will come out stronger in 2024, overcoming these challenges and work towards economic recovery, which will provide greater opportunities for the country’s unemployed youth.

    According to him: “Therefore, I urge the Urhobo people to continue supporting President Bola Tinubu-led administration and its Renewed Hope Agenda by embracing government policies and programs aimed at economic recovery and development.

    “I wish the great people of Delta Central happy and a prosperous New Year filled with greater opportunities.”

  • Dafinone preaches love, perseverance at Christmas

    Dafinone preaches love, perseverance at Christmas

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has extended warm wishes to his constituents as the world celebrates this year’s Christmas. 

    Recognising the significance of this time of the year, the Senator emphasised the importance of love, perseverance and community celebration, noting that the essence of Christmas is God’s love towards mankind.

    Dafinone also reaffirmed his commitment to tirelessly work for the betterment of the Senatorial District.

    The Delta Central lawmaker, in his Christmas message, urged the Urhobo people, Deltans, and Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of Christ on the cross and use the occasion to build a stronger family, society, and national bond.

    While congratulating Christians for this year’s Christmas, Senator Dafinone tasked them to celebrate with moderation.

    As the spirit of giving permeates the air, Senator Dafinone called on the great people of Delta Central to reach out to those in need within their communities. 

    Read Also: Dafinone celebrates Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom at 80

    He urged everyone to cherish the moments spent with loved ones and reflect on the values that bring society closer together in unity.

    “Christmas reminds us of the importance of the love of Christ, so, let this love be felt in our family and the nation. Let us remember the true meaning of Christmas, which is love, compassion, and generosity towards one another.

     “As we journey towards 2024, I want to urge our people to persevere, because as your Senator,  I will continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall well-being of our people,” he promised. 

    “With the year coming to an end and a new one on the horizon, I urge our people to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. 

    “If we persevere and work in love, together we can build a brighter future for Delta Central, where every individual has the chance to thrive and succeed.

    “I wish the people of Delta Central a Merry Christmas filled with love, and cherished memories, as we continue to work together toward a prosperous future. 

    “Merry Christmas to you all, and may the grace of God abide with us this season,” he stressed. 

  • Dafinone celebrates Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom at 80

    Dafinone celebrates Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom at 80

    Senator Ede Dafinone has celebrated His Royal Majesty, Emmanuel Ekemejewa Sideso Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom on his 80th birthday. 

    The Senator commended the exemplary leadership and dedicated service that HRM Sideso Abe I has provided to the people of Uvwie Kingdom, the Urhobo Nation and Delta State.

    He also expressed admiration for HRM Sideso Abe I’s achievements and the stability he has brought to the Uvwie Kingdom, highlighting the monarch’s inclusive leadership style and wisdom, which have made him a shining example for others to follow. 

    Dafinone added that he has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of HRM Sideso Abe’s dedicated service, acknowledging his invaluable contributions to Uvwie Kingdom and Delta State as a whole.

    Dafinone thanked God for making the monarch achieve such a milestone on earth and prayed God to continue to grant His Majesty more fruitful years on the throne of his forefathers.

    The Senator, in a statement, said: “On behalf of the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I join the great people of Uvwie Kingdom, and indeed the Urhobo Nation to rejoice and celebrate Your Majesty, on your 80th birthday anniversary.

    “Sir, not many attain such a milestone in life, but God graciously kept you thus far in good health and sound mind to continue to provide leadership to our people, and we can attest to the fact that your journey on earth has been impactful and that of service to humanity. 

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Akpabio on 61st birthday

    “With a career spanning over 30 years at the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company, Your Majesty rose through the ranks with distinction, showcasing strong managerial abilities. This experience undoubtedly influenced your approach to leadership, resulting in positive development within your kingdom.

    “Since your ascension to the throne as Ovie in 2008, Your Majesty has prioritized promoting peace, education, and community development. Notably, your scholarship program has benefitted over 2,000 students, thereby demonstrating your commitment to investing in the future of our youth. 

    “Your service as the Chairman of the National Development Summit of Traditional Rulers, contributing to the nation-building process has not gone unnoticed. 

    “Here, we wish you a happy 80th birthday, Your Majesty, and many more years on the throne.”

  • Dafinone mourns Kokori, consoles family

    Dafinone mourns Kokori, consoles family

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central)has expressed his condolences to the family of Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, a renowned labour leader and prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who died in the early hours of Thursday. 

    The Senator described the late Kokori an iconic labour leader, a staunch progressive politician and a fearless defender of democracy, highlighting the his valiant efforts with other pro-democracy leaders in establishing the current democratic government in Nigeria.

    Kokori, who served as the Secretary General of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), fell ill some weeks ago and was subsequently admitted to the hospital. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated last week, leading to his demise at 80 on Thursday. 

    In a signed condolence statement, the Delta Central lawmaker emphasised Kokori’s demise is a significant loss not only to the progressive and labour movements where his contributions remain indelible but also to the Urhobo nation.

    “The news of his death deeply saddens me. Although we grieve, we must accept that we are mere mortals who cannot question God’s will. I firmly believe that Chief Kokori led a fulfilling life and has left behind a remarkable legacy,” Senator Dafinone began. 

    “On behalf of the people of Delta Central, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the larger Kokori family of Ovu, the APC, and the organised labour community for this great loss.”

    Read Also: Dafinone hails Orodje of Okpe Kingdom on birthday

    “The Urhobo nation, and indeed Delta State, has lost one of its iconic figures. Chief Kokori fearlessly confronted a brutal military junta, placing his personal and family safety at stake, during a time when many remained indifferent.

    “Chief Kokori stood up when our nation was at a crossroads. He unwaveringly defended democracy, even in the face of grave danger. He never betrayed the collective aspirations of Nigerians in their quest for democratic governance and remained a progressive until his last breath,” he added. 

    Recalling his visit to Kokori in the hospital,  Dafinone shared: “During our last encounter, he exuded his usual cheerfulness and maintained hope for a greater Nigeria, the nation he lived in and fought for.

    “While our revered leader lived a life of great impact and fulfillment, departing at a ripe age, his passing at this critical time in our national history is indeed saddening. We find solace in the knowledge that he ran a good race and finished strong.

    “His demise comes at a time when his invaluable guidance is greatly needed to navigate a better path for our democracy and national development; the ideals he cherished and yearned to witness materialize.”

    “I pray that God comforts the Kokori family and the Urhobo nation, granting us all the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • Dafinone congratulates Brume-Ataguba over appointment as NPC Commissioner

    Dafinone congratulates Brume-Ataguba over appointment as NPC Commissioner

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated Mrs. Blessyn Brume-Ataguba on her appointment as a Federal Commissioner Designate of the National Population Commission (NPC) by President Ahmed Bola Ahmed Tinubu to represent Delta State.

    In a statement on Friday, Dafinone described the appointment as well-deserved, given Brume-Ataguba’s contributions to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta and her long-standing loyalty to the party as a founding member.

    While applauding the President for his choice of Brume-Ataguba, a worthy Urhobo daughter, Dafinone assured that the grassroots mobilizer and community leader would bring her wealth of experience to bear in the discharge of her duties.

    The statement reads: “On behalf of the great people of Delta Central Senatorial District, which I represent in the 10th Senate, I wish to congratulate you, my dear sister, Mrs. Blessyn Brume-Ataguba, on your meritorious appointment as NPC Commissioner by Mr. President,” Dafinone said. “This has shown that loyalty and hard work pay.”

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Ajagba for defeating Australia’s Joe Goodall In Nevada

    “This is one appointment that has gladdened the hearts of many APC faithful in Delta State. As a member of the State Executive Committee, Brume-Ataguba’s unwavering commitment and loyalty to the party is unquestionable.”

    “As a grassroots mobilizer and community leader who has lived most of her life interacting and relating with our people both in rural and urban areas, coupled with her international exposure, I can assure Mr. President that Mrs Blessyn Brume-Ataguba will help his administration Renew Hope Agenda.”

    “We can attest to the fact that she is well-read and can deliver on her mandate, having successfully run her family business and estate, thereby sustaining the legacies of late Senator Fred Brume. 

    “The experiences she has garnered over the years will be valuable in her current appointment, and we are confident that she will not disappoint Mr. President and the Urhobo nation”

  • A’Court affirms Dafinone’s victory as Delta Central Senator

    A’Court affirms Dafinone’s victory as Delta Central Senator

    The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos has dismissed the appeal filed by Chief Peter Omaruaye and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) against the victory of Ede Dafinone as Delta Central Senator.

    The Court of Appeal, in a unanimous decision, held that the appellants failed to prove the allegations of non-qualification and non-compliance with the Electoral Act against the respondents.

    The Court of Appeal also dismissed the preliminary objections filed by the respondents, which challenged the appellants’ brief of argument on the ground of proliferation of issues.

    The Court held that the preliminary objections were frivolous and lacked merit.

    Read Also: Appeal Court upholds Lalong’s election as Plateau South Senator

    On the merit of the appeal, the Court of Appeal held that the appellants failed to prove that the respondents were not qualified to contest the election.

    The Court also held that the appellants failed to prove that the respondents did not comply with the Electoral Act in the conduct of the election.

    Having resolved the two issues in the appeal in favor of the respondents, (Dafinone and APC) the Court of Appeal consequently dismissed the appeal.

    The Court also ordered the appellants to pay the costs of the appeal to the respondents.

    With latest this victory, all electoral cases against Senator Dafinone’s victory have been dismissed.

  • A’Court affirms Dafinone’s electoral victory, dismisses Tribunal verdict

    A’Court affirms Dafinone’s electoral victory, dismisses Tribunal verdict

    The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos on Wednesday dismissed the judgment of the National Assembly Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba and upheld the electoral victory of Senator Ede Dafinone for Delta North. 

    On August 11, the tribunal led by Justice W. I. Kpochi, in its judgment in a petition marked EPT/DT/Sen/2023 filed by the senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ighoyota Amori, ordered a rerun in about 20 polling units.

    The Delta Central lawmaker, however, rejected the decision and directed his legal team to appeal the tribunal judgment, promising to recover the mandate of freely given to him by the people of Delta Central, a promise he fulfilled at the Appeal Court.

    In a unanimous judgement delivered on Wednesday, the appellate court upheld Dafinone’s appeal and dismissed the cross-appeal filed by his opponent, Chief Ighoyota Amori of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

    Reacting to the judgment of the Appeal Court, Senator Dafinone expressed gratitude to God Almighty for the victory, noting that he never doubted the capacity of the Nigerian judiciary to do substantive justice.

    “Our Appeal Court Victory is to God and Humanity!

    Read Also: Taraba: Tribunal affirms Useni as winner

    “Today we won at the Court of Appeal, this victory would not have been possible without God, so, we give God all the Glory, HiHelone deserves our praises and may His Name be praised forever.

    “I also want to thank our party leaders for your invaluable support that contributed to our victory, and APC faithful, my supporters across party lines and the great people of Delta Central, this victory is for all of us.

    “Our judiciary has once again demonstrated that it can do substantive justice when the need arises and indeed the hope of the common man,” he said. 

  • Senator Dafinone congratulates NAUB’s new chancellor Orodje of Okpe

    Senator Dafinone congratulates NAUB’s new chancellor Orodje of Okpe

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta North) has congratulated the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, His Majesty, Orhue I, Maj- Gen Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), on his installation as the Chancellor of the Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB) and his conferment of a Doctorate of Laws (LL.D) honoris causa.

    In a statement on Saturday, Chief Dafinone, who is a traditional chief in Okpe kingdom, praised the Orodje for his exemplary leadership and service to the nation.

    He described him as a visionary and progressive monarch who has brought peace and development to the Okpe Kingdom and beyond.

    He also lauded the NAUB for recognising Orodje’s contributions to the Nigerian Army and national building. He said Orodje’s appointment as the Chancellor of the NAUB was a testament to his integrity, professionalism and patriotism during his service in the Nigerian Army.

    He expressed confidence that the Orodje would use his wealth of experience and wisdom to guide the NAUB in its academic and research pursuits.

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    “On behalf of the great people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I want to congratulate Your Royal Majesty, Umogu, on your successful inauguration as the pioneer Chancellor of this very strategic university and the conferment of a Doctorate of Laws (LL.D) honoris causa.

    “This didn’t come as a surprise considering your meritorious service to the nation during your period of service in the Nigerian Army rising to an enviable rank of a Major General.

    “You have excelled in all that has been entrusted to you in the past, therefore, we are confident that you will bring your experience over the years as a soldier and a king in turning this unique university into a global institute,” he stressed.

    Dafinone also felicitated with the NAUB on its second convocation ceremony, which held on Friday. He commended the management, staff and students of the university for their achievements and dedication.”

    The Delta Lawmaker further appealed to the federal government to support the NAUB in its quest to become a world-class institution of learning and innovation, noting that NAUB is a strategic asset for Nigeria’s security architecture development.

    He also called on all stakeholders to collaborate with the NAUB in advancing its vision and mission, adding that NAUB is a unique institution that could provide solutions to some of the challenges facing Nigeria and Africa.

  • Dafinone commiserates with victims of Ugbenu tanker fire

    Dafinone commiserates with victims of Ugbenu tanker fire

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta North) has expressed deep condolences to the victims of the recent petroleum tanker fire incident at Ugbenu, Ethiope West Local Government Area. 

    He called on the federal government to take immediate action in fixing the bad sections of the Benin-Warri road.

    The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday along the Warri – Benin Road at Ugbenu Koko Junction, claiming five lives, according to the police report, with properties worth millions of lost in the avoidable incident.

    The Delta Central lawmaker while reiterating the call for the federal government to expedite action on fixing failed portions of major highways in Delta State, noted that the incident would have been avoided if not for the bad spot on the road which caused the tanker loaded with PMS to fall and spill its contents. 

    He decried the untold hardship commuters face on the Warri-Benin road daily, spending close to five hours on the road on a journey that shouldn’t last for a about an hour due to the deplorable state of the road.

    He noted that man hours lost daily to traffic on Warri-Benin road because of the bad state of the road, the only major road connecting the two states of the Niger Delta region is taking a huge toll on economic activities and the social life of our people who daily journey through that route.

    According to reports, a tanker laden with PMS fell at the Ugbenu Koko Junction, spilling its contents into a nearby swamp. The spillage attracted a group of youths who began scooping the fuel into jerry cans and other containers. 

    Read Also: Nigeria @63: Dafinone preaches unity, solicits support for Tinubu

    Tragically, an explosion occurred, engulfing the area in flames. The resulting fire consumed the fallen tanker and caused extensive damage to numerous vehicles including buses, trailers, motorcycles, and private cars.

    “The Ugbenu fire incident is a devastating tragedy that has claimed the lives of five individuals and caused significant damage to properties, this is very unfortunate.

    “My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones and to all those affected by this unfortunate event. We must come together as a community to provide support and assistance to those who have suffered such immense loss.”

    “The loss of lives and destruction of properties in this incident are deeply distressing. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens by ensuring that our roads are in a good state,” Senator Dafinone emphasized. 

    “I call on the federal government and other relevant agencies to expedite action in addressing the issue of bad roads, particularly the Warri – Benin Road, to prevent future tragedies like this from occurring.

    “The poor state of Warri-Benin road needs an emergency attention, our people have been subjected to untold hardship since the only access road connecting the Niger Delta got terriblely bad.

    “A journey that takes about an hour from Warri to Benin, now take an average of 4 to 5 hours or more, this has affected enconmic activities on this corridor and if urgent steps are not taken to fix this road, the entire Niger Delta would be cut off from other parts of the country.

    “As your representative at the National Assembly, we will continue to bring the attention of the Government to the urgent need for road infrastructure improvements and the allocation of resources to prevent similar incidents in the future.

    “I will continue to engage with relevant authorities and advocate for the necessary measures to be taken to ensure the safety of our citizens on the roads,” Senator Dafinone affirmed. 

    “We owe it to the memory of the victims of the Ugbenu fire incident and to the community at large to make our roads safer and more reliable.”

    Dafinone encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and adhere to safety precautions, particularly when encountering accidents or incidents involving hazardous materials, and also avoid the temptation of scooping fuel.

    He urges individuals to report any road hazards promptly and to support the ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure for the benefit of all.

  • Nigeria @63: Dafinone preaches unity, solicits support for Tinubu

    Nigeria @63: Dafinone preaches unity, solicits support for Tinubu

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has called on Nigerians to persevere in the journey of building a stronger and united country as Nigeria marks 63rd Independence Anniversary on October 1.

    Dafinone said the quest of building nationhood such as Nigeria is the one that requires unity, deliberate determination and collaboration of all to achieve.

    The Delta Central senator, who also solicited support for the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, noted that Nigeria has so much to gain if the country confronts her challenges in unison.

    Senator Dafinone stated this in a statement on Sunday while congratulating President Tinubu, Nigerians, and the people of Delta Central as Nigeria marks its 63rd Independence Anniversary.

    He added that great nations of the world are nations who put aside their differences and collectively confront their common challenges. 

    The Delta Central lawmaker said that in the past 63 years of the country’s independence, Nigeria has overcome existential challenges and come out stronger, adding if we continue on the path of progress and building on the gains of the past 63 years, Nigeria will be the envy of others in the comity of great nations.

    Read Also: Nigeria@63: Oyo NLC, TUC shun parade

    He noted that Nigeria as a young democracy needs to build stronger democratic institutions that will strengthen our leadership recruitment process and build citizens’ confidence, stressing that no nation becomes great without transformational leadership which is selected through transparent and credible elections.

    He said: “I wish to congratulate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the federation, the people of Delta Central Senatorial District, and Nigerians at large as we mark our country’s 63rd Independence Anniversary as a nation.

    “Our journey to nationhood and to emerging as a strong economy has not been smooth as expected of all great nations, because no nation becomes great without first overcoming its teething problem and collectively confronting its challenges.

    “Nigeria is blessed with huge human and natural resources and has no business being poor, but because we had not gotten our leadership selection process right as a young democracy, we have lost the opportunity to harness the country’s resources for development and growth.  

    “So, as we mark this year’s independence anniversary, we should decide as a people to work at building stronger democratic institutions that will make our leadership recruitment process more open and transparent to build citizens’ confidence in our government.

    “If we persevere collectively, work on our perceived weaknesses, and continue on the path of growth and development, I see a great, stronger Nigeria nation that would become an envy of other nations.”