The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Olorogun Jaro Omovudu Egbo, has approved the dissolution of all 2025 Revenue Committees and Revenue Contractors/Consultants operating within the Ughelli North Local Government Council Area.
The council, in a statement issued by Pastor Goodluck I. Unuavworho, Secretary to the Local Government, stated that the decision was announced following the final Executive Council meeting for 2025 held on 30th December 2025.
The Chairman has advised residents, traders, landlords, and all business operators within the Local Government Area not to make any 2026 revenue payments to any committee or revenue contractor/consultant at this time. This directive is to prevent double taxation.
He assured the public that the Council will formally notify citizens once the 2026 Revenue Committees are duly constituted, after which revenue collection will officially commence.
Furthermore, all Chairmen and Secretaries of the dissolved committees are directed to hand over all Local Government properties in their possession to the Treasurer of the Local Government, Mrs. Mercy Morkah, of the Accounts and Finance Department without delay.
He reiterated that, for now, no revenue should be paid to any committee within the Local Government Area.
“However, any individual or business owner willing to pay 2026 revenue at this time is advised to visit the Ughelli North Local Government Council Secretariat and make payment directly to the Revenue Office Unit, into the official Local Government account”, it added.
Comrade Ator Okolosi, a former Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Community Development, has congratulated Sheba Kris Palama on the occasion of his birthday anniversary today, 30th December 2025.
In a heartfelt statement, Okolosi described Palama as a generous businessman whose contributions have significantly impacted his people.
The former aide to immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa praised Palama for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people, highlighting his philanthropic nature which has made him a respected figure in Udu Kingdom, Urhobo, Delta State and beyond.
Okolosi emphasized that Palama’s annual Christmas and New Year packages have positively affected numerous lives, not only in Udu but also in neighboring communities.
These gestures, according to Okolosi, exemplify Palama’s dedication to community development and empowerment.
“Palama is more than just an oil magnate; he is a beacon of hope for many. Year after year, his generosity during the festive seasons uplifts the less privileged and fosters a spirit of unity among the people of Udu and beyond,” Okolosi stated.
Acknowledging Palama’s business acumen, Okolosi remarked that the success of his ventures has enabled him to give back to society in meaningful ways.
This blend of entrepreneurship and philanthropy sets a standard for others in the business community to emulate.
Okolosi also called on other prominent individuals in the society to follow Palama’s example by engaging in acts of kindness and contributing to the socio-economic growth of their communities. “It is through such collective efforts that sustainable development can be achieved,” he remarked.
Okolosi wished Palama good health, continued success, and the strength to keep making a difference.
In a heartwarming gesture reflecting the spirit of the season, the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard, a prominent social-cultural organization, has donated essential medical equipment, beddings, and food items valued at hundreds of thousands of naira to Otu-Jeremi General Hospital.
The generous contribution aims to support both the hospital management and the patients during the festive period.
The donated items included bedspreads, pillowcases, plastic buckets, blood pressure machines, drip stands, snacks, soft drinks, and various other supplies necessary for patient care and hospital operations.
At the donation ceremony, Mrs. Oboh Margret, President of the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard, emphasized that the initiative was a way to express love and care to the hospital’s management and patients.
“We wish the patients a Merry Christmas and a speedy recovery. We urge everyone to hold on to life and hope,” she said.
Mrs. Margret also highlighted the importance of community involvement in addressing health challenges. “We cannot rely solely on the government to take care of everything. In our own personal ways, we can all give back to our community and society at large,” she added.
She encouraged other organizations to emulate their example and contribute to the welfare of society.
On behalf of Otu-Jeremi General Hospital, Dr. Tuoyo Eda and Matron Ufuoma Inone received the items, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful donation and the positive impact it would have on patients and healthcare delivery.
The event was further enlivened by members of the Emmanuel Urhobo Catholic Joint Choirs (EUCJC), who performed beautiful Christmas songs that captivated all attendees, bringing a festive and joyful atmosphere to the occasion.
Other executives and members of the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard present at the event included Mrs. Emoavwodua Cecilia, Vice President, Madam Eunice Korugbo, Secretary, Mrs. Enajijevwe Awolowo, Financial Secretary/Treasurer, Chief Pauline Okiotor, Ex-President and Queen Rose Egbi, Queen Elizabeth Oghenero Idogho, while Mrs. Uviemuamren Pauline Imudje are members.
Tension is currently brewing in Orhuwhorun town over an attempt by suspected land grabbers to impeach the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun community, Mr. Ochuko Jeroh to cover up their illicit deals.
It would be recalled that Hon. ThankGod Agolokigho, Mr. Ighowho Takerere, Chief Moses Bokor, Chief Apine Layer, VIC Land & Property Limited, and others were summoned to the High Court of Justice, Oror-Udu, in suit No: OUHC/208/2025 by Pa Jude Rewa Okolosi, Mr. Ator Okolosi representing Uterhi gate of the Ekrekun family; Pa Dodor Chabor, Mr. Friday Ovedje for themselves and on behalf of Atare gate of the Ekrekun family; Mr. Ochuko Jeroh, the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun, for himself and on behalf of Ovuokporho/Okporho gate of the Ekrekun family; and Mr. Jonathan Arutare for himself and on behalf of Umurhieri of the Ekrekun family as claimants.
The defendants, in their alleged bid to cover up the illegal sales of Oria land owned by Ekrekun Community, bribed some of their cohorts who recently announced that the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun Quarter had been removed.
However, the Orhuwhorun Community has faulted the unconstitutional attempt to remove the Oghwuvwie in order to cover up the illegal sales of Ekrekun Community land, which the Oghwuvwie strongly opposed.
In a letter dated 17th December 2025 and signed by the President General and Secretary General of Orhuwhorun Community, Engr. John Uviejitobor and Comrade Power Emuejevwe respectively, addressed to the Junior Youth Chairman of Ekrekun Quarter, a directive was issued for the immediate reversal of the purported announcement.
The letter stated that the action breaches Page 14, Section 17 and Page 39, Section 69 of the Orhuwhorun Community Development Union’s Constitution, 2024 (as amended).
According to the letter: “We write to bring to your notice that the Orhuwhorun President General and the other members of the Central Executive Council are aware of the public announcement of the purported suspension of the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekrun Community, who is the Senior Youth Chairman of Ekrekrun Community ‘Mr. Jero Ochuko’, made on 15th December 2025 by the Junior Youth Chairman and some Elders and Chiefs of Ekrekrun Community.
“The President General of Orhuwhorun Town and the entire Central Executive Council (CEC) completely condemn this act perpetrated by the Ekrekrun Community Junior Youth Chairman, Kingsley Odjugho, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, and 10 others.
“As a result of the constitutional breach by the Junior Youth Chairman of the Community, Mr. Kingsley Odjugho, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, and 10 others should return to the Ekrekrun Community within 24 hours of receiving this letter to reverse the initial public announcement of suspension and let the status quo remain pending the resolution of the alleged crisis.
This action breaches Page 14, Section 17 and Page 39, Section 69 of the Orhuwhorun Development Union (ODU) Constitution 2024.
“Hence, the reversal of the suspension announcement within 24 hours is irrevocable, or all participants in this action will be forced to face legal action for breaching the Constitution of Orhuwhorun Development Union 2024”, it added.
DAILY SHINE NEWS can authoritatively report that papers related to the reply process for the suit against the alleged land grabbers are being taken to some elders with promises of ‘sign and collect N100,000.’
It was gathered that some elders with integrity rejected the offer on the grounds that they cannot mortgage the future of their children, but some, allegedly out of hunger, accepted the N100,000 largesse.
As it stands, tension is high as the leadership of Orhuwhorun town, led by Engr. John Uviejitobor prepares to take legal action against Mr. Kingsley Odjugho,
the Junior Youth Chairman of Ekrekun Community, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, a serving councilor in Udu Local Government Council, and 10 others.
The member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Rev’d Francis Ejiroghene Waive, has stated that the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Otu-Jeremi is actually attached to the Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian as a teaching hospital.
Waive who made this known recently at Obi-Ayagha when he played host to executive and members of Ughelli South Political Colonels, stated that the school will soon kick off with lectures.
He urged those present during the visit to continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he has done something good for the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency by giving them a federal medical centre.
According to him, “Those who don’t understand should know that it’s a teaching hospital.
“This past week papers were moved from ministry of health to head of service and from there they will come and do biometrics.
“Our Chief Medical Director was given papers recently to permanent his appointment because he was on acting capacity before now.
“The college of Nursing and Midwifery, Otu-Jeremi is attached to the Federal Medical Centre, I have spoken with the Ideh’s family for us to use Late Chief Patrick Ideh’s house for hostel and lecture classrooms while practicals will be at the Federal Medical Centre for us to begin.
“My goal in politics is to bring development to my people. It is not the question of just occupying the space. We have done a lot for my people which I have compiled and have been distributing to my people.
“I want to use this opportunity to call on our people to continue to support me because I am ever ready to be their voice at the National Assembly and continue to deliver dividends of democracy to them”, he added.
The Okpe-Olomu Community Elites Forum on Sunday hosted a grand reception for Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo following his remarkable election and subsequent swearing-in as the Assistant National Secretary of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU).
The event took place at the Don Chisle Hotel, Oguname-Olomu, in Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA), drawing a large gathering of community leaders, elites, and well-wishers.
The celebration was marked by jubilation and commendations for Oghotomo’s contributions to both the Okpe-Olomu Community and the broader Urhobo nation.
Leading the host team, Mr. Peter Oghotomo, President General of the Okpe-Olomu Community, expressed profound joy in Oghotomo’s achievement.
Speaking at the event, Peter Oghotomo described Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo as “an enduring blessing” to the community, highlighting numerous ways in which he has positively impacted local development efforts.
“The elevation of Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo to the position of Assistant National Secretary of UPU is a testament to his dedication, humility, and relentless service,” Peter Oghotomo said.
He urged members of the forum to rally behind their son and support his efforts to advance the interests of Urhobo people at the national level.
Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo, visibly elated and humbled by the outpouring of support, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Okpe-Olomu Community Elites Forum for the warm reception and the trust reposed in him.
In his remarks, he emphasized his readiness to serve the Urhobo Progress Union with honesty, diligence, and unity.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence you have bestowed upon me. This election is not only a personal milestone but a collective victory for our people,” Oghotomo stated. “I pledge to work tirelessly to ensure that the values and aspirations of the Urhobo people are advanced and safeguarded.”
The reception was graced by several prominent figures, including President General of Okpe-Olomu Community; Hon. Alex Temisere, Vice President General, Okpe-Olomu Community, Madam Omoteghwu Upi; Chief Fullpower Orubure; Hon. Jabin Ighomena; Chief Convey Omokeni; Mr. City Ighoruona; Barrister Opete; and Chief Daniel Fole.
Also in attendance were Alhaji Suleman Afide, Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters; Mr. Atake; Chief Lucky Ohriyan; Chief Princely Temisere; Olorogun Eric; Godspower Okitikpi; Hon. Steven Asheshe; Chief Raymond Temisere; Comrade Pender Agwarive; Chief Lucky Oguma; Andrew Kpogbodu: Hon. Roland Oyibo and others.
These dignitaries took turns to acknowledge Oghotomo’s success and urged the community to continue strengthening their bonds through active participation in UPU’s initiatives.
They also expressed optimism that Oghotomo’s leadership would usher in enhanced cooperation and progress for the Urhobo nation.
The event featured cultural displays and traditional rites that underscored the rich heritage of the Okpe-Olomu people.
Guests were treated to an evening of camaraderie, with numerous expressions of goodwill and prayers for Oghotomo’s success in his national role.
High Chief Promise Lawuru, popularly known as Ozigizaga and the Managing Director/CEO of Ozigizaga Security Network, has warmly congratulated Barrister Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, on being honored with the esteemed traditional title of ‘Okanlomo of Yorubaland.’
The title was bestowed upon him by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, during a ceremony held on Sunday.
The traditional recognition is a significant cultural distinction that acknowledges Barrister Seyi Tinubu’s impactful contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage across Yorubaland.
The conferment formally celebrates his commitment to these vital areas.
In a statement signed by Chief Lawuru, he praised the honor as well-deserved and a reflection of Seyi Tinubu’s steadfast dedication to public service and his strong connection to the Yoruba people.
The title ‘Okanlomo,’ which means “beloved son of the land,” is traditionally awarded to those who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the progress and welfare of Yoruba society and culture.
Chief Lawuru highlighted that receiving this title brings with it significant responsibilities, including promoting Yoruba traditions, advising the Alaafin, and championing initiatives related to education and social welfare—fields in which Barrister Seyi Tinubu has shown exceptional leadership and passion.
Acknowledging Seyi Tinubu’s humility, inclusive approach to leadership, and his efforts to unite Nigerian youth, Chief Lawuru described him as a true role model for young people nationwide.
He also pointed out that with this honor, Barrister Tinubu joins the ranks of distinguished Yoruba figures, such as the late Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, whose legacy continues to inspire cultural pride and excellence.
The investiture by Oba Abimbola Owoade publicly acknowledges Barrister Seyi Tinubu’s dedication to cultural revival, social unity, and developmental progress not only within Yorubaland but beyond its borders.
It further emphasizes the critical role traditional institutions play in preserving culture and promoting community development in modern Nigeria.
Chief Lawuru expressed his confidence that Barrister Seyi Tinubu will carry out the duties that come with the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland with honor, commitment, and visionary leadership befitting this prestigious recognition.
The Ughievwen Kingdom is set to celebrate the festive season in grand style as the traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty Odjaberen Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, in collaboration with the Council of Chiefs, announces the annual Nine Lessons and Carols service.
The event will take place on December 22, 2025, at the majestic Okobaro Royal Palace, opposite the Ughelli South Local Government Council Secretariat, starting promptly at 2 pm.
In a joint statement released by the Palace authorities, the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Shaire, the Secretary of the Council of Chiefs, Olorogun John Okoro, and the Director of Media and Publicity, Olorogun Sunday Apah, extended a warm invitation to all sons and daughters of the kingdom.
The statement specially urged titled chiefs and key stakeholders to grace the occasion with their presence, emphasizing the importance of unity and community spirit during this festive season.
According to the statement, “The traditional ruler and the Council of Chiefs have spared no effort in planning what promises to be a memorable event. Prominent men of God will be in attendance to officiate the ceremony.
“Among the distinguished clergy expected are Archbishop GodDowell Avwomakpa and Archbishop Solomon Gbakara, whose spiritual guidance is highly respected within and beyond the kingdom.
“Music and worship will form the heart of the day’s celebrations. The statement highlighted that choristers representing various Christian denominations will lend their voices to the occasion.
“Choirs from the Catholic Church, Anglican Church, Baptist Church, Christ Missionary Crusaders Church, God’s Grace Ministry, Godswill Mission, and others will perform sonorous hymns and carols, setting the tone for a spiritually uplifting afternoon.
“Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the season by participating in the beautifully orchestrated lessons and carols.
“The event will not only highlights the religious and cultural heritage of the Ughievwen people but also fosters a sense of togetherness and peace during the Christmas period.
“In previous years, the Nine Lessons and Carols service has drawn large crowds and served as a platform for community members to reconnect and celebrate their shared values.
“This year’s edition is expected to surpass earlier celebrations, given the involvement of high-profile religious leaders and the wide array of musical contributions.
All attendees are reminded to arrive early to fully partake in the rich cultural and spiritual offerings of the day.
The long-standing cold war between the eleven Ward Chairmen and Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje, the Local Government Area (LGA) Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli South has finally been resolved.
The breakthrough came through the intervention of the National Leader of Ughelli South LGA political class, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, along with the Local Government Council Chairman, Olorogun Dr. Lucky Avweromre.
The meeting, which brought together the APC ward chairmen and the LGA Chairman, Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje, was facilitated by Chief Oguma and held in a spirit of reconciliation and unity.
The parties engaged in constructive dialogue aimed at healing the divisions that have threatened the party’s cohesion and effectiveness in the area.
Both sides expressed joy and optimism following the successful resolution of their differences.
The ward chairmen Godwin Omote, Ewu Ward I; Rufus Onokurefe, Jeremi Ward I, Ochuko Amere, Olomu Ward 2, Chief Bernard Ekivere, Ekakpamre Ward; Odafe Peter, Jeremi Ward 3, Chief Dickson Awharie aka Okpamukpamu, Jeremi Ward 4, Omonikeme Andrew, Ewu Ward 2; Emuejevoke Onofeghara, Jeremi Ward 2; ThankGod Akpokiniovo, Effurun-Otor Ward; Philip Aberhire, Olomu Ward I, Victor Akemo and the LGA chairman, Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje, acknowledged the pivotal role played by Chief Oguma and Dr. Avweromre in mediating the dispute.
They expressed renewed confidence in the leadership of the party at the local level and the vision of its key leaders.
During the meeting, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma urged all dissenting voices within the party to set aside personal differences for the greater good of the APC in Ughelli South.
He emphasized that unity and collective effort were critical to strengthening the party’s grassroots structures and ensuring victory in future elections.
Echoing this sentiment, the APC LGA Chairman, Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje, called on all stakeholders to collaborate effectively and demonstrate loyalty to the party’s ideals.
He pledged to work closely with the ward chairmen and other party executives to create an environment conducive to growth and development across the local government area.
Similarly, the Local Government Council Chairman, Olorogun Dr. Lucky Avweromre, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the APC’s leadership efforts.
He assured party members that his administration would provide the necessary platforms and resources to unify and empower the party’s grassroots agents.
According to him, “The reconciliation marks a significant step forward for the APC in Ughelli South and is expected to restore confidence among party members and supporters.
“With internal conflicts now settled, we the party leaders and members can now focus on delivering effective governance and mobilizing public support ahead of upcoming political contests”, he added.
…Calls for More Prayers, Everyone’s Involvement to End Insecurity in Nigeria
By Sunday Apah
The presiding Bishop of The Light of the World Mission Church, Bishop Harrison Obiogho, has urged all governors in Nigeria to emulate the development drive of the Governor of Delta State for all round development of the country.
Obiogho made this known in a chat with journalists during the 2025 Convention of the church held recently at Ewu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
He stated that this year’s theme, “Greater Glory,” was chosen after much prayer, adding that God said the 2025 convention, which will usher us into 2026, is a year of greater glory.
The clergy, whose character is likened to that of Jesus Christ, explained that the speed of grace, the speed of God’s presence, and the help of the Lord will be greater than ever before in 2026.
According to him, “So the theme came by revelation from the throne of Glory and not by human imagination. Greater glory goes with more passion for God according to Psalm 69:9, which says, ‘The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up,’ while Exodus 33:18 says, ‘Show me thy glory,’ said the Lord.
“So when you seek greater glory, the passion for it opens doors, creates new doors. There is no way you serve the Lord and go stranded. So greater glory opens doors for greater opportunity, greater favour, greater honour, and greater innovation.
“Psalm 71:21 says the Lord will increase them all on every side. The end point of greater glory is increase on every side.”
He advised Christians and ministers of God to crave higher grace and higher power to do His work, know Him better, and understand the power of His resurrection.
He further advised Christians to be more focused in their faith and businesses because they must be active, creative in ideas, and have the ability to do the right thing at the right time. “It is essential in the journey of life,” he said.
On the issue of insecurity, he said security is everyone’s problem, not only the government’s, because the government is facing many challenges.
“We need more prayers for this nation; we cannot blame the government alone. We also have a role to play. Most of the people causing insecurity are within us, though not here; they are mostly from the North. They and their families are known.
“If people over there can summon their courage and say enough is enough, it will be good. In the absence of that, everybody should pray and secure their environment. When we suspect anything, let’s inform everyone to be more careful.”
On his message to government officials, he stated that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is doing marvelously well for Delta state, saying that if all governors can imbibe such a character of development drive, Nigeria will be a better place for all of us.
He noted that despite all the good works, some people will still criticize him. “If you want to criticize, do it constructively and jettison destructive criticism.”
On his New Year message to every Nigerian, he urged everyone, including governors, to develop their states with available resources.
“We should, on our part, get involved in business, farming, and be creative. If you don’t know, ask God for direction and be creative for a better Nigeria.”
