By Sunday Apah

The Warri Urban Security Network (WUSN) has issued a warning against the circulation of false information regarding the ongoing dispute between the family of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi—former Minister of Education—and tenants of the Robinson Plaza on Deco Road in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.

The group specifically called on activist Zik Gbemre and others to cease spreading inaccuracies that could threaten public peace.

The disagreement stems from unresolved issues concerning rent payments and outstanding utility bills. The protracted situation has led to multiple petitions to various police units in the area, with the matter eventually elevated to the State Police Headquarters in Asaba. It is also under litigation in several courts within Warri and its environs.

In a press statement released yesterday, WUSN expressed concern over the role of external parties, particularly activist Zik Gbemre, whom they accused of exploiting the situation for personal gain.

The security body clarified that contrary to widespread claims, the matter of the correct bank account for rent payments has been resolved. Tenants have been instructed to continue using the original account, and many have already complied.

According to the statement, the remaining issues involve utility arrears, including water, security, sewage, parking, and electricity (NEPA).

Tenants who have settled these dues have had their shops reopened. WUSN encouraged those whose shops remain closed to clear their outstanding bills to regain access.

The statement, jointly signed by Chairman Chief Frank Adagbabiri and Secretary Barrister Chinedu Ejiofor, read in part:
“Our attention has been drawn to recent publications by activist Zik Gbemre, who has interfered in the Gbagi family’s affairs in an attempt to profit from the situation. We are particularly dismayed by his efforts on social media to tarnish the reputation of D.C.P. Alani Adegoke of the Delta State Police Command, who has handled this matter with professionalism.”

It further noted: “We have verified that the core issues between the Gbagi family and the tenants have been resolved. Compliant tenants have resumed business, while only a few who have yet to settle utility bills remain unable to access their shops.”

WUSN also commended Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, son of the late patriarch, for his competent management of his father’s estate.

The group highlighted ongoing projects, including a new plaza in Ugbolokoso, maintained facilities at Deco Road and P.T.I. Junction with upgraded power supply, expanded educational institutions, and improved service delivery at family-owned filling stations and banks.

Regarding rumors of an eldest son born outside wedlock, WUSN clarified that the individual in question has no familial ties to the Gbagi family, citing that the person previously contested elections under a different surname.

The organization urged the public to disregard false narratives about the Gbagi family, affirming that the family remains united in preserving and advancing the legacy of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi.

By Sunday Apah

Olorogun Dr. Eunice Daji Okoh, a House of Representatives aspirant for the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency in Delta State, has promised to deliver superior legislative representation if elected.

The aspirant made this commitment during a consultative visit to the Ughievwen Kingdom’s traditional council, signaling the start of her engagement with key stakeholders in the constituency.

The visit, which took place on Thursday, March 12, 2026, saw Okoh paying homage to HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, alongside the Council of Chiefs of the realm.

Addressing the monarch and his council, Okoh articulated her vision for the constituency, emphasizing her determination to secure victory in the forthcoming election.

She expressed a clear resolve to not only contest but to win the race, highlighting her preparedness to address the pressing needs of the people through effective and responsive representation at the national level.

According to the aspirant, her mission is rooted in a deep-seated desire to uplift the constituency by leveraging legislative opportunities to attract development, advocate for equitable resource allocation, and champion policies that improve livelihoods.

She stressed that her candidacy is driven by a commitment to bridge existing gaps in representation and foster a more inclusive and progressive federal constituency.

In his gracious response, HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi offered prayers for Okoh’s success in her political endeavour.

The monarch, while acknowledging her aspirations, emphasized the importance of leadership that prioritizes the welfare and development of the people.

By Sunday Apah

The Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Political Matters, Deacon Matthew Kwode, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the recent approval of several key road construction projects in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The approved projects include the internal roads in Okwagbe, Imode Road, and the ECN-Ughievwen-Udu Road.

Kwode, in a detailed statement issued on Sunday, described the governor’s approval as a timely and transformative intervention for the communities.

He emphasized that the move directly aligns with Governor Oborevwori’s “MORE Agenda,” which prioritizes meaningful development and strategic infrastructure to enhance the livelihoods of Deltans.

“The approval of these critical roads by His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is not just a promise fulfilled but a demonstration of his unwavering commitment to even development across all parts of Delta State,” Kwode stated.

He highlighted that the poor state of the roads had long hampered economic activities, mobility, and social interaction for residents in the affected areas.

The Executive Assistant specifically noted that the construction of the Okwagbe internal roads would revitalize the bustling riverine community, known for its commerce and fishing activities.

Improved accessibility, he argued, would boost local markets, reduce the cost of transportation for goods and people, and significantly improve the overall quality of life for inhabitants.

Regarding the Imode and ECN-Ughievwen-Udu roads, Kwode pointed out that these projects are crucial for connecting several agrarian and residential communities.

He stated that the upgrades would facilitate the easier movement of farm produce to urban centers, thereby increasing farmers’ income and ensuring food security, while also easing the daily commute for thousands of residents.

Kwode further used the opportunity to call on the benefiting communities to embrace the projects with a sense of ownership.

He urged residents to cooperate fully with the contractors, provide a secure and enabling environment for the work, and protect the government’s infrastructure investments from vandalism upon completion.

Deacon Matthew Kwode expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his responsive leadership and keen attention to the infrastructural needs of Ughelli South.

He expressed confidence that these projects, once completed, would stand as enduring testaments to the administration’s dedication to tangible, people-focused development across Delta State.

By Sunday Apah

A High Court in Plateau State has ruled that elected Local Government Chairmen in the state are entitled to a four-year term in office.

The court determined that the two-year tenure stipulated by the Plateau State Local Government Law and the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Law conflicts with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The judgment was delivered by the Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Gwong Mann, in response to a suit filed by the Chairman of Wase Local Government Area, Hamisu Anani.

The suit sought judicial clarification on the constitutional and statutory provisions regulating the tenure of elected local government officials.

Anani had initiated the case through an originating summons against the Attorney General of Plateau State, requesting the court to decide whether the two-year term under state law conforms to constitutional guarantees for a democratically elected local government system.

Commenting on the ruling, the Plateau State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Philemon Dafi, stated that the court upheld the claimant’s requests after thorough consideration of the constitutional issues presented.

“The Chairman of Wase Local Government, Hon. Hamisu Anani, filed an originating summons against the Attorney General, seeking interpretation of the Constitution, the Plateau State Local Government Law, and the PLASIEC Law,” Dafi explained.

“He posed four key questions regarding the tenure of local government chairmen in Plateau State, particularly for Wase Local Government.

“The court, after hearing his arguments, granted the reliefs and declared that, effective immediately, the tenure for all local government chairmen in the state shall be four years, consistent with Nigeria’s constitutional democratic framework.”

The court concluded that the two-year tenure weakened the constitutional structure for democratic governance at the local level and could not supersede the provisions of the Constitution.

In response to the judgment, the claimant’s counsel, Madueke Okafor, praised it as a robust constitutional interpretation and a triumph for grassroots democracy.

“We are satisfied with this outcome. It reflects a sound interpretation of the Constitution, and we are confident that, following this ruling, the tenure for local government chairmen and councillors in Plateau State is now firmly established as four years,” Okafor stated.

He further noted that the decision imposes greater accountability on elected officials to demonstrate their worth through dedicated service to their communities during the extended term.

Source: Channels TV

“The responsibility now rests on them to utilize this period effectively in serving the people,” he added.

By Sunday Apah

Delta State’s Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has applauded Emo Rock Concepts Limited for its commitment to quality and schedule adherence in the ongoing Emevor–Orogun Road Phase II project.

During a site visit on Wednesday, Aniagwu inspected the 4.8-kilometer road in Isoko North Local Government Area and the progressing Amai–Aragba Road in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

He emphasized that the state administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expects all contractors to deliver durable, cost-effective infrastructure that offers lasting benefits to residents.

The commissioner highlighted that the project’s advancement validates the state’s policy of engaging local contractors for major infrastructure works.

He noted that Emo Rock Concepts Limited performs at a level comparable to international construction firms.

“This project reaffirms our choice to employ indigenous contractors. Emo Rock Concepts Limited is delivering work that matches global standards,” Aniagwu stated.

He recalled that the company had successfully completed the first phase of the road, which remains in excellent condition, leading to the award of the second phase.

The engineering design was specifically tailored to address the area’s swampy conditions, incorporating retaining walls and elevating the road more than two meters above ground level to prevent flooding.

Aniagwu pointed out that rigorous compaction and strict compliance with technical specifications demonstrate the contractor’s expertise.

He reiterated the state’s expectation that all projects be built to endure and provide full value to the people of Delta.

Governor Oborevwori prioritizes both quality and timelines, and the commissioner confirmed that the contractor is meeting these expectations. Although the project began in July 2024 with a 24-month completion window, the current pace suggests it could be finished within the coming months.

Most sections have reached the binder course stage, with only about 300 meters near culverts awaiting adjustment. Once the wearing course begins, the remaining work is expected to take two to three weeks, potentially allowing completion by late April.

Aniagwu also praised the contractor’s attention to detail in finishing shoulders and drainage culverts, encouraging other firms in the state to follow this example.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building reliable road networks that improve connectivity and support socio-economic growth across Delta.

Emo Rock Concepts Limited’s Project Director, Engr. Oghale Agelebe, restated the company’s dedication to finishing the project by April 2026 while maintaining high standards and satisfying the government, local communities, and road users.

Community youth representatives, including Comrade Obukowho Usie and Comrade Emmanuel Itegbru, thanked the state government for the road project, describing it as a transformative development that will enhance transportation and stimulate the local economy.

They pledged ongoing community support for the state’s initiatives.