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INEC Holds Stakeholders’ Meeting on Restoration of Suppressed Ughelli South II, Isoko North II, Abraka Constituencies in Delta (Photos & Videos)

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By Sunday Apah

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday convened a stakeholders’ engagement on the restoration of the suppressed State constituencies of Ughelli South II, Isoko North II and Abraka (Ethiope East), reaffirming its commitment to ensuring equitable representation and strengthening democratic governance in Delta State.

The meeting, held on July 31, 2026, at the INEC Conference Hall in Asaba, brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, local Government chairmen, security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, youths, community leaders, and other critical stakeholders from the affected constituencies.

In his welcome address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Delta State, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, described the engagement as timely and significant, noting that the restoration of the suppressed constituencies is in compliance with valid court judgments and relevant constitutional provisions.

He said the exercise reflects INEC’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting fairness and ensuring that every eligible citizen enjoys equitable representation in governance.

 

He stressed that constituency restoration is not merely an administrative exercise but a fundamental step toward guaranteeing inclusiveness and equal representation in Nigeria’s democratic process.

 

Umoren urged stakeholders to give maximum support to the Commission’s technical team, emphasizing that access to accurate information, constructive engagement and community cooperation would ensure a credible and transparent exercise.

He also appealed to traditional rulers to leverage their influence in mobilising their communities and maintaining peace throughout the restoration process.

Speaking on behalf of the Supervising National Commissioner for Delta State, the Deputy Director of Delineation, Mrs. Emem Umoren, described the restoration as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

She maintained that every citizen deserves fair and effective representation, adding that no community should be denied its rightful place in the legislative process or the dividends of democracy.

According to her, the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to provide clarity on the court judgments, explain the restoration process, promote transparency and accountability, encourage stakeholder participation, and strengthen public confidence in the electoral system.

 

 

Chairmen of the affected local government councils, Hon. Augustine Usinefe Ogedegbe of Ethiope East, Hon. Prince Godwin Ogorugba of Isoko North, and Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre of Ughelli South, pledged their full support for the Commission’s efforts and assured INEC of their commitment to ensuring the successful restoration of the suppressed constituencies in line with the court’s directives.

As part of the exercise, INEC deployed technical teams to the three constituencies to carry out geographical delineation and engage residents on issues relating to the proposed restoration.

The meeting ended peacefully, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the restored constituencies would participate fully in the 2027 general elections.

Oghenemaro, Onoriode Sentenced to Death for Murder of DELSU First Class Student Elozino Ogege

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State High Court sitting in Ogwashi-Uku, has condemned two men to death by hanging for the heinous abduction and brutal murder of Miss Elozino Joshualia Ogege.

Ogege, a brilliant 300-level Mass Communication student from Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, was on the cusp of academic glory before her promising life was tragically extinguished.

Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, with unwavering resolve, delivered the damning judgment on Wednesday. Macaulay Desmond Oghenemaro and Enaike Onoriode were unequivocally found guilty on all counts, including conspiracy to commit kidnapping, the act of kidnapping itself, conspiracy to commit murder, and the ultimate crime of murder.

The nation reeled in shock and outrage in 2019 when Ogege, an indigene of Isoko, Delta State, vanished. Reports indicated she had gone to meet an individual promising accommodation assistance in Abraka, only to be allegedly ensnared by suspected ritualists, chillingly linked to the dark underworld of internet fraud, infamously known as “Yahoo Yahoo plus.”

The Delta State Government, through the formidable Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, relentlessly pursued justice, prosecuting the accused on an eight-count charge encompassing conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, and murder. A fourth defendant, Robinson Obajero Ojokojo, a native doctor, evaded earthly justice, having died before the trial’s conclusion.

The wheels of justice, though slow, grind inexorably. The case languished for years, plagued by persistent adjournments, primarily due to the repeated absence of counsel for the first defendant. Yet, perseverance prevailed; final written addresses were eventually adopted, culminating in this momentous judgment.

Reacting to the monumental verdict, Omamuzo Erebe (SAN), the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Justice, who spearheaded the prosecution, hailed the decision as a “landmark judgment.”

“Today, we bear witness to the culmination of a trial that commenced approximately nine years ago. The court meticulously found the first and third defendants guilty of the offenses of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping,” Erebe declared.

“Furthermore, they were convicted of the offenses of conspiracy to commit murder and the cold-blooded murder of Miss Elozino Ogege. They have been sentenced to various terms of imprisonment, but for the offenses of conspiracy to commit murder and the murder itself, they face the ultimate penalty: death by hanging.”

He emphasized that the judgment offers a measure of solace and closure to the grieving family of the deceased, who have endured years of agonizing waiting.

“Today, on behalf of the Delta State Government and the Commissioner for Justice, our profound condolences extend to the family. They have waited nine long years for justice, and today, justice has been delivered to them and their entire family,” Erebe stated, acknowledging the profound emotional toll. “You could perceive the profound emotion of the deceased’s mother in court. It is a natural reaction. We remain hopeful that while this judgment cannot resurrect her, it will aid them in finding a path to closure.”

Erebe further asserted that this judgment serves as a stark and terrifying warning to young individuals contemplating the dark allure of internet fraud and ritualistic killings.

“Secondly, this judgment broadcasts an undeniable message. The ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ phenomenon, or whatever moniker it assumes, the ritual killings, or whatever dark practices are involved—ultimately, the law will inevitably exact its toll,” he cautioned.

“Therefore, to young men who harbour the delusion of instant wealth through ritual killings and these abhorrent methods, you will ultimately share the fate of the first and third defendants in this matter. The law will prevail. Regardless of the time it takes, the law will ultimately run its course. I implore you, desist from crime.”

Concurring with the sentiment, Isoko lawyer Duncan Afahokor proclaimed the judgment as “Justice at last,” emphasizing that it was a case where “justice is not only done but manifestly seen to be done.”

He affirmed that the verdict will bolster public confidence in the judicial system and transmit an unequivocal signal that perpetrators of violent crimes will, without fail, confront the full, unyielding might of the law.

NDC Slams Surge In Zamfara Insecurity, Demands Immediate Rescue Of Kidnapped FUGUS Lecturer

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Zamfara State Chapter, has condemned in strong terms the abduction of Dr. Namadina Hamza, a lecturer at the Federal University Gusau, and called on the Federal Government and security agencies to secure his immediate release.

In a statement signed by Publicity Secretary, Kasim Almustapha Kayatawa, the party said Dr. Hamza was attacked and kidnapped from his residence in the Low-Cost area of Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State.

The NDC described the incident as another grim reminder of the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara, where, according to the party, criminal elements have continued to attack, abduct and kill innocent citizens with alarming frequency.

“This unfortunate incident once again highlights the worsening security situation in Zamfara State,” the statement read. “The persistent wave of insecurity has left residents living in constant fear and uncertainty, despite the constitutional responsibility of government to protect lives and property.”

The party stressed that security is not a privilege but a fundamental right, and insisted that it is the primary responsibility of government at all levels to guarantee the safety and well-being of the people.

“The continued failure to effectively address the growing insecurity in Zamfara State is deeply concerning and requires urgent, coordinated, and decisive action,” the NDC stated.

Speaking on the development, the Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Zamfara State Chapter, Alhaji Surajo Garba Maikatako, said the people of Zamfara have endured unimaginable hardship for far too long.

According to him, citizens no longer feel secure in their homes, schools, places of work, marketplaces, or while travelling on the highways. He stressed that “the time has come for government to match its constitutional obligations with concrete and measurable action.”

The NDC therefore called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards the immediate rescue of Dr. Namadina Hamza and every other victim currently held in captivity.

The party also urged the authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve security operations, and ensure that those responsible for these heinous crimes are apprehended and brought to justice.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress said it stands in solidarity with the family, colleagues, students, and the entire Federal University Gusau community during this difficult period.

The party concluded with prayers: “We pray that Almighty Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) grants Dr. Namadina Hamza and all other abducted persons a safe and speedy return, comforts their families, and blesses Zamfara State and Nigeria with enduring peace, security, and prosperity.”

ICMPD’s Anti-Trafficking Initiative Reaches Over 4,000 Delta Residents Through STEAP Sensitization

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By Sunday Apah

The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has intensified its efforts to combat human trafficking in Delta State.

Through its Schools Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP), the organization has engaged more than 4,159 community members via sensitization campaigns led by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Parent Teacher Forums (PTFs).

STEAP is funded by the Government of the Netherlands and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD).

The project is delivered in close collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Delta State Ministry of Education, and Hope Health Organization (HHO), Ozoro.

The project’s core objective is to prevent human trafficking through interventions delivered in schools and communities throughout the state.

To foster community engagement and coordinated action against human trafficking, HHO conducted sensitization activities in several locations: Ozoro (Isoko North), Irri, Oleh, and Emede (Isoko South), and Ughelli (Ughelli North LGA).

These campaigns were held at prominent public venues such as the Ozoro main market, Oleh community market, and the town halls of Irri, Emede, and Otovwodo in Ughelli.

These initiatives significantly enhanced public awareness of human trafficking, strengthened local ownership of anti-trafficking efforts, and reinforced collaborations among government bodies, CSOs, and community leaders.

Beyond the considerable number of people reached, the campaigns secured strong commitments from local government authorities and community leaders.

This indicates broad acceptance of the STEAP Project and a growing desire to expand its reach and empower local stakeholders to sustain anti-trafficking efforts beyond the project’s lifespan.

Nwaefulu Matthew, the CSO STEAP Project Officer, informed journalists that the project’s primary focus remains prevention through education. “We are directly addressing high-risk communities across Delta State,” he stated.

“By providing students, teachers, and parents with the knowledge to identify warning signs, resist deceptive proposals, and safely report threats, we are establishing a protective barrier around our children before traffickers can approach them.”

Oluwakemi Omotoso, the CSO Project Coordinator, commended the dedicated work of Delta State ICMPD officials.

She specifically acknowledged Mrs. Ijeoma David-Ukoko, the State ICMPD Project Officer, for her technical support in ensuring the project’s smooth execution.

Omotoso also recognized the vital contributions of other STEAP partners in the state, including the Delta State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking and the State Ministry of Education, emphasizing that the project’s implementation would not have been possible without their assistance.

NDA Don Advocates Universal Account-Keeping as Key to Nigeria’s Future

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

A Professor of Accounting at the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, Kaduna, Professor Terzungwe Nyor, has told Nigerians that accounting is not the exclusive preserve of accountants, insisting that record-keeping is a duty for everyone if the country must grow.

Prof. Nyor made the assertion on Thursday while delivering his Professional Inaugural Lecture at the Academy. The lecture was themed “Accounting is Everybody’s Business.”

The Professor of Accounting, who specializes in financial accounting and reporting, warned micro and small business owners that operating without financial records puts them “in the dark” and blocks growth.

“You can’t measure the progress of your business. You don’t know how your business is moving, whether it is moving forward or not,” he said. “The major objective of commerce, which is to make profit, you cannot measure it. And that is hindering business growth.”

He said the lecture was aimed at small businesses, individuals and government institutions because accountability is central to development.
“Accountability involves being answerable for your actions and taking responsibility for your activities. It is core for national development. Without accountability, we are not just going anywhere in Nigeria,” Prof. Nyor said.

According to him, the theme was informed by the reality that “everybody spends money,” and accounting provides the data needed for wise decision-making.
“Transactions involve decision-making. You make a decision to spend, and if you don’t have data for those informed decisions, you cannot be taking good and wise decisions even for yourself,” he added.

Prof. Nyor further said accounting does more than track finances. It builds character, he argued, by instilling discipline, attention to detail, probity and leadership.

“For you to be able to keep records, you have to involve a culture of discipline. If you are not disciplined, if you don’t have the aptitude for details, you cannot keep accounts. So, a person who is engaging in recordkeeping, that in itself enforces discipline into him. You need discipline to grow anything. You need discipline to be productive,” he said.

“Accounting has a way of instilling all these qualities of accountability, discipline, probity, and even leadership to an extent. Because you can’t be a leader without knowing accounting. Everywhere leadership is involved, money passes there.”

Speaking on challenges in the profession, the don lamented what he described as a growing emphasis on certificates over knowledge among students.
“My most challenging aspect in lecturing is students who are not interested in knowledge, but are just interested in certificates. That’s why students see me as a difficult lecturer. Because I want you to know. I want you to know,” he said.

He added: “Getting a certificate is important, but a certificate without knowing is useless. It cannot bring progress, it cannot even help you yourself. We have come to an age where everybody is just after certificate, certificate, and knowledge is becoming scarce. But I hope that we’re making headway.”

The inaugural lecture drew participants from the NDA community and stakeholders interested in financial literacy and accountability in public and private life.

Governor Oborevwori to Unveil Lifeline for Xenophobia Victims Today

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By Sunday Apah

In a move set to captivate the the people, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, is poised to make a powerful statement of compassion this Friday.

He will personally welcome and extend crucial support to Deltans who endured the harrowing ordeal of forced repatriation from South Africa’s recent xenophobic crisis.

The highly anticipated event, confirmed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, is scheduled for July 31, 2026, at the prestigious Unity Hall, Old Government House, Asaba, commencing at 12:00 noon. Guests are urged to arrive by 11:30 am to witness this pivotal moment.

Ahon emphasized that this solemn reception is a testament to the Delta State Government’s unwavering dedication to its citizens, offering vital relief to those displaced and traumatized by the brutal xenophobic assaults that rocked South Africa.

The comprehensive support package, meticulously crafted by the Oborevwori administration, aims to alleviate the immediate hardships confronting these brave returnees.

It powerfully underscores the government’s profound commitment to the welfare and enduring well-being of all Deltans, no matter their global location.

Respected government officials, influential stakeholders, and specially invited guests are expected to converge at this emotionally charged gathering, solidifying the state’s profound solidarity with its citizens who have faced unimaginable adversity.

BLOODBATH: Omo-Agege Meeting EXPLODES in Chaos Over N2.5 Million “Kola-Nut” Cash Grab

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By Sunday Apah

Just hours after Senator Ovie Omo-Agege preached peace, his own political meeting in Ughelli erupted into a terrifying free-for-all on Wednesday.

Guns, bottles, and machetes flew as enraged supporters clashed over a disputed N2.5 million “kola-nut” cash wedge, turning the consultation into a scene of pure pandemonium.

Eyewitnesses paint a grim picture: the gathering, meant to rally support for Omo-Agege’s 2027 senatorial bid, descended into madness when the whopping N2.5 million was announced.

Sensing danger as the crowd turned ugly, Omo-Agege reportedly bolted from the venue, leaving his supporters to face the storm.

The fury, according to sources, ignited over accusations that some party bigwigs were trying to pocket a chunk of the N2.5 million meant for distribution among the loyal party structures.

“The Senator gave the money for the wards, but some leaders wanted to chop the money before sharing it!” one anonymous supporter fumed, explaining how the news sparked the inferno.

Reporters arriving on the scene were met with the chilling sounds of gunfire and a stampede of fleeing supporters.

Allegedly, armed vigilantes fired shots into the air in a desperate attempt to quell the raging mob. While no deaths are confirmed yet, eyewitnesses report a disturbing number of injuries from the brutal clash.

This explosive incident casts a dark shadow over Omo-Agege, who just days ago called for a crackdown on political violence. Now, the spotlight is firmly on his own backyard as authorities scramble to piece together the truth behind the Ughelli cash-fueled chaos.

Delta Primary Teachers to Reach Grade Level 17, As JAC Ratifies Governor Oborevwori’s Initiative

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Local Government Joint Account Committee (JAC) on Wednesday unanimously approved Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s landmark decision to elevate the career progression of graduate primary school teachers from Grade Level 14 to Grade Level 17.

This move is set to significantly boost morale and enhance the quality of basic education across the state.

The approval came during a JAC meeting in Asaba, attended by key stakeholders including the Commissioner for Primary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu; the Commissioner for the Directorate of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Kelly Penawou; and the Chairman of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, alongside local government council chairmen.

Speaking after the meeting, Mrs. Ezewu hailed Governor Oborevwori’s approval as a major uplift for the teaching profession within the state’s basic education sector.

She emphasized that this decision renews confidence among primary school teachers and underscores the administration’s commitment to improving their welfare.

“This decision will encourage more qualified professionals to seek employment in public primary schools, as teachers will no longer see their career progression ending at Grade Level 14,” Ezewu stated.

She lauded Governor Oborevwori for fulfilling a long-standing aspiration of primary school teachers, aligning the gesture with the administration’s MORE Agenda, which aims to enhance opportunities and improve public service delivery.

The Commissioner also extended gratitude to various stakeholders, including the Commissioner for the Directorate of Local Government Affairs, SUBEB officials, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and local government council chairmen, for their support in actualizing this initiative.

She believes the promotion will significantly improve teaching and learning outcomes by boosting morale and strengthening commitment.

However, Ezewu urged graduate teachers to justify the confidence reposed in them through improved performance.

She stressed that the new career progression comes with greater responsibility, emphasizing diligent preparation of schemes of work and lesson notes to ensure effective knowledge transfer.

Quoting the popular saying, “to whom much is given, much is expected,” she called for the elimination of complacency and a renewed spirit of professionalism.

In his remarks, Hon. Kelly Penawou commended Governor Oborevwori for his administration’s support to local governments, noting that ongoing reforms have significantly improved councils’ financial capacity for prompt salary payments and developmental projects.

He attributed the visible progress in local government infrastructure to enhanced funding and strengthened grassroots governance.

Hon. Samuel Mariere, SUBEB Chairman, explained that while the National Certificate in Education (NCE) has traditionally been the minimum qualification for primary school teachers, the need to improve learning outcomes necessitates encouraging the recruitment and retention of graduate teachers.

He noted that these graduates will now enjoy career progression up to Grade Level 17, a significant increase from the previous ceiling of Grade Level 14.

Mariere applauded JAC members for their unanimous ratification, describing it as a demonstration of their shared commitment to educational development.

He believes this approval will not only motivate existing graduate teachers but also pave the way for recruiting more degree holders into the state’s primary school system, aligning with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.

Echoing these sentiments, Chief Isaiah Esiovwa, Delta State Chairman of ALGON and Okpe Local Government Council Chairman; Comrade Poubeni Dickson, NUT Chairman; and Hon. Joseph Otirhue, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, all applauded Governor Oborevwori for the landmark decision.

They expressed confidence that this initiative will ultimately lead to better teaching standards and improved learning outcomes for pupils in Delta State’s public primary schools.

Police Arrest Seven Suspected Maphite Cultists, Recover Weapons in Delta

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Police have arrested seven suspected Maphite cultists and recovered a double-barrel gun, pistols, and live cartridges at different locations in the state.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, who made this known on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, stated that the arrests occurred on July 27, 2026. Operatives of the Command Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU), acting on credible intelligence, raided a criminal hideout at Issele-Uku.

Those arrested were Promise Esenjor (26) of Abavo, Wisdom Victor (23) of Umunede, James Wisdom (25) of Agbor, Chinedu Munonye (22) of Issele-Uku, Onyemakonor Collins (20) of Agbor, Unah Oluchi (21) of Agbor, and Azomani Favour (23) of Issele-Uku.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are confessed members of the dreaded Maphite Confraternity,” Edafe stated.

“Recovered from the hideout were one double-barrel gun, seven live cartridges, one cutlass, one Maphite cult beret, seven Android phones, and other incriminating exhibits.”

In a separate operation on July 27, 2026, operatives of the Abraka Division, acting on credible intelligence, foiled a planned gathering of suspected criminals along Omono Road, Abraka.

While other suspects fled upon sighting the police, one Wale Morakinyo (27) was arrested.

A search of a bag in his possession led to the recovery of two locally fabricated pistols and four live cartridges.

The suspect is in custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reassured all Deltans of the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations against cultism and other violent crimes.

He urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to support ongoing efforts to keep Delta State safe.

Effurun Incident: Ughievwen Elders, Leaders Meet to Proffer Total Reconciliation

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By Sunday Apah

Prominent elders and leaders of Ughievwen have strongly condemned the recent incident involving two of their sons at Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

The attendees expressed deep regret over the unfortunate events and have moved swiftly to address the underlying issues.

Chief Adelabu Bodjor, who briefed newsmen after the meeting at Chief Patrick Fovie’s residence in Ughevwughe town, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State, stated that they resolved for an immediate cessation of all forms of hostility among the aggrieved parties.

He added, “We resolved in the meeting for the committee to interface with Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, to appeal to him to temper justice with mercy.

“We are appealing because we have initiated efforts to reconcile our sons involved in the dispute. We are aiming to resolve all pending issues amicably and restore a sense of calm and cooperation”.

He noted that both parties have been reached, and they both agreed for the issues to be resolved to ensure lasting peace between them.

To facilitate this crucial peace process, the Ughievwen Elders and leaders unanimously appointed a dedicated peace committee.

The committee was tasked with the vital responsibility of interfacing with His Excellency in the shortest possible time.

The newly formed peace committee is headed by Chief Dr. A. P. Fovie, whose leadership is expected to guide the reconciliation efforts effectively.

The meeting saw a robust attendance of key figures, demonstrating widespread concern and commitment to resolving the crisis.

Among those present were Chief Dr. A.P. Fovie, Olorogun Barrister Adelabu Bodjor, Chief David Uhawha, Chief Okiemute Oviri JP, Chief Matthew Ofioguma, and Olorogun Sito Ena Godwin JP.

Other attendees included Chief Solomon Ala, Evang. Thomas Edafivwiroro, Dr. Tareri Avwomakpa, Dr. Abitor Jacob Ekakpamre (PG Ekakpamre community), Rufus Onokurefe (Chairman of all Chairmen), Hon. Lucky Orusara, Toka Solomon, Thaddeus Badaseraye, Hon. Moke Gift, Apostle Mukoro Apoe, Ojigho Ojays (Ughelli South LGA Chairman), Okeoghene Gori (PG Otokutu community), Ufuoma Samson Omoabotaye (PG Iwhrekan community), and Smart Omojevwe Gbenga (PG Edjophe community).

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