HRM Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, JP, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, the traditional ruler of the historic Olomu kingdom, has passed away.
His death, which follows his ascension to the throne on May 20, 2023, was officially confirmed during a ceremony at his palace in the Ovwor-Olomu community, part of the Ughelli South Local Government Area in Delta State.
The announcement was made by Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, the Otota of the Ancient Olomu kingdom, who was joined by members of the Olomu traditional council and relatives of the late monarch. The occasion was marked by traditional Ema dancers and the firing of 21 cannon shots to signify the loss.
In observance of this announcement, all markets within the kingdom have been closed, and there will be a suspension of burial and wedding celebrations, with stores allowed to conduct only limited transactions.
As a part of the mourning rituals, a month-long mourning period will take place from July 12 to August 12, 2025. Chiefs within the Olomu kingdom are required to wear a black armband on their left arms and refrain from wearing the traditional red cap of Olomu chieftaincy as a mark of respect for the late monarch.
A moment of silence lasting five minutes was held to honor the late Ohworode of Olomu kingdom, who reigned for two years before his passing.
Justice Olugboyega Ogunfowora of the Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta sentenced Mustakeem Balogun and Soliudeen Majekodunmi to death by hanging on Friday.
Additionally, Lukmon Abdulgafar was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 16-year-old Sofia Okeowo in Kugba, Abeokuta, on January 28, 2022.
The Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Oluwasina Ogungbade, announced these verdicts in a statement released to the press on Friday.
It was recalled that Sofia had visited her boyfriend, Mustakeem, who engaged in sexual intercourse with her. Afterward, Mustakeem reportedly attacked and strangled her with the assistance of Soliudeen, then beheaded her. The perpetrators then mutilated parts of Sofia’s thighs and placed her headless body into a sack. The head was later taken to Lukmon’s residence, where it was burned using a local burner.
A widely circulated video from January 2022 showed community guards catching the three suspects with Sofia’s head burning in a local burner. The footage also depicted them reciting incantations over her body.
In the official statement, the commissioner stated, “On July 11, 2025, Mustakeem Balogun, Soliudeen Majekodunmi, and Lukmon Abdulgafar faced justice for the gruesome murder of Sofia Okeowo.”
He further explained that the crime occurred on January 28, 2022, in the Kugba area of Abeokuta. Mustakeem allegedly lured Sofia with the intent of engaging in sexual activity and then murdered her as part of a premeditated ritual to acquire charms believed to bring wealth.
While Mustakeem and Soliudeen were sentenced to death by hanging, Lukmon Abdulgafar received a life sentence, following the court’s verdict.
The commissioner emphasized that the current administration is committed to eradicating crime, including ritual killings, and hopes that these convictions will serve as a warning to others involved in similar illegal activities.
Prominent businessman and political leader, Olorogun Oscar Ibru, hosted a significant unity meeting for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli North Local Government Area on Friday, with the goal of fortifying the party in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.
The gathering, held at Oharisi Model Primary School in Ughelli, drew together APC stakeholders, grassroots activists, youth leaders, and committed party members, all demonstrating their dedication to party solidarity and electoral success.
In his address, Olorogun Ibru underscored the importance of unity and strategic mobilization to ensure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
He referred to both leaders as “reform-driven patriots,” highlighting their efforts in fostering sustainable development in Nigeria and Delta State.
“This is not a time for division,” Ibru stated. “We need to unite, put aside our differences, and rally behind those genuinely committed to progress. President Tinubu has made difficult yet essential choices to reshape the economy, and Governor Oborevwori has excelled in infrastructure development and youth empowerment.”
Ibru continued, “We gather today to honor a leader who embodies the vision I had 18 years ago when I aspired to be governor of the state. The Governor has performed admirably. I proudly call him Sheriff; he embodies peace and positive action.”
He praised the Governor’s extensive political experience and his honorable character, noting, “He is approachable and attentive. When people claim the Governor has defected, they fail to see that he is acting in the best interests of the people of Delta State.”
“I urge everyone to support his re-election and that of the President in 2027. Actions speak louder than words, and it is evident that the Governor is well-prepared for governance,” Ibru emphasized.
He encouraged APC members in Ughelli North to enhance grassroots outreach, support government initiatives, and maintain discipline within the party to secure significant victories in 2027.
During his welcoming speech, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, Chairman of the Ughelli North Local Government Council, affirmed the party’s unity in the region.
“We are committed to strengthening our party’s unity and aim to deliver 85 percent of Ughelli North votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and our esteemed Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,” he declared.
Several party leaders, including Olorogun Morrison Olori, Olorogun Terry Noah, Prof. Sam Iboje, Vera Ugbobor, Felix Olokpa, and Olorogun Samuel Akpimegi, the President-General of the Ughelli Descendants Union, praised Ibru for his efforts in bridging divides, which they believe will reinvigorate the APC’s local structure.
They expressed gratitude for the support received from the community, emphasizing that their unity is focused on achieving the desired outcomes for the President, Governor Oborevwori, and all APC candidates in the 2027 elections.
The event marked an important milestone in building party cohesion and enhancing campaign readiness as political activities gain traction leading up to 2027.
Akpobire Calls for Establishment of Engineering Training Institute, Chief Engineer Role in Nigeria
By Admin
Renowned engineer and development advocate, Engr. (Comrade) Michael Akpobire, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently establish a dedicated Engineering Training Institute, similar in model to the Nigeria Law School for lawyers, to bridge the wide gap between classroom theory and real-world engineering practice.
He made the call while delivering a keynote lecture at the 3rd Engr. Adams C. Okoene Annual Public Lecture and Distinguished Personalities Award Ceremony, organised by the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ekpoma Branch, on the theme: “Engineering Practice, Government Policies, and Politics in Nigeria.”
Akpobire, drawing from nearly two decades of experience in public engineering leadership, lamented the glaring deficiencies in the current engineering education framework, which, he said, produces graduates ill-prepared for practical challenges.
Engr. Akpobire who is a former Executive Secretary of the Delta State Technical and Vocational and Education Board, TVEB, proposed the creation of a national engineering training institute, supervised by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), to provide structured, post-graduate, hands-on training as a mandatory prerequisite for licensing and professional recognition, just like doctors and lawyers undergo housemanship and law school, respectively.
“The success of the legal and medical professions in Nigeria is largely owed to institutionalized professional training. Engineering deserves no less,” Akpobire said, adding that the curriculum must be industry-focused, and the institute funded through an endowment drawn from government contracts, multinational companies, and contributions from practicing engineers.
In an equally bold proposal, he called for the formal creation of a Chief Engineer of the Federation and by extension, Chief Engineers in the 36 states akin to the roles of the Attorney-General, Accountant-General, or Surveyor-General.
He argued that such a position is crucial for national planning and execution of engineering-driven infrastructure and technological advancement.
“The absence of a central engineering voice at the policy and decision-making table is a serious oversight. We must institutionalize this role to consolidate and synergize national engineering strategies,” he asserted.
Akpobire also decried the routine appointment of non-engineers to head ministries and agencies that require technical insight.
He stressed that political appointments in engineering-related ministries should prioritize professionals who understand the industry’s intricacies.
On the issue of training and licensing, the guest speaker emphasized that most technical colleges and vocational centers are under-equipped and disconnected from industry needs.
He cited a 2017 World Bank-assisted study which revealed that most graduates were being trained for exams, not for job readiness.
In response, he shared success stories from pilot reforms that included curriculum enrichment, teacher retraining, tool commissioning, and renewable energy integration in workshops.
He further advocated for a unified engineering profession, where artisans, craftsmen, technicians, technologists, and engineers are respected within a single framework and can transition smoothly through the ranks, without being marginalized.
The lecture, rich in research and policy suggestions, was well-received by industry stakeholders, academics, and policymakers present at the event.
Several attendees commended Engr. Akpobire’s visionary ideas, particularly the engineering institute and Chief Engineer proposals, as game-changing solutions capable of transforming Nigeria’s engineering landscape.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth of engineering in Nigeria.
In closing, Engr. Akpobire urged the NSE, COREN, and government agencies to work together and act decisively on the recommendations, noting that the time for cosmetic changes is over.
“By institutionalizing professional training and appointing Chief Engineers, we can finally place engineering at the heart of Nigeria’s development agenda,” he said.
Armed assailants have reportedly abducted three individuals, including two local officials from the palace, and set several homes on fire in the Bunyun community within Bashar District, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Sources indicate that the attack took place on Wednesday evening around 7:30 pm and may be connected to a recent clash between vigilante groups and bandits, which resulted in multiple vigilante casualties and widespread property destruction.
The traditional ruler of the community, Abdulbari’u Muhammad, confirmed the incident to journalists in Jos on Thursday. He explained that a large number of bandits arrived on motorcycles, raiding the community and stealing valuables such as foodstuffs, clothing, and motorcycles.
“We are completely at a loss and don’t know what steps to take, which is why we fled to Bashar. Everyone has evacuated because the community is no longer safe,” Muhammad stated.
He identified the kidnapped palace officials as Waziri and Wakili, who is his younger brother.
Residents reported that the entire community had been deserted, with many fleeing to nearby towns like Bashar for safety.
Abubakar Zubairu, a local resident, told PUNCH Metro, “The community was deserted on Thursday morning following the attack on Wednesday night.”
Muhammad appealed to the government to send sufficient security personnel to the area to enable farmers to return to their fields and protect their livelihoods.
“Our crops are already planted, and we are deeply concerned about our farms. We urgently need security support so we can go back to our farms and sustain ourselves,” he said.
This incident underscores the escalating insecurity in Plateau communities and the urgent need for government action to safeguard lives and property.
As of this report, responses from Major Samson Zhakom of Operation Safe Haven and Alabo Alfred of the state Police Command had not been received despite multiple calls and messages.
The Presidency has refuted accusations that President Bola Tinubu is responsible for the recent challenges encountered by opposition parties in Nigeria, labeling such claims as baseless and politically charged.
In an interview on Arise News’ Prime Time on Thursday evening, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, clarified the situation.
Onanuga rejected allegations that President Tinubu was meddling in the operations or meetings of opposition coalitions, particularly regarding the newly formed alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party leader Peter Obi, and others affiliated with the African Democratic Congress.
“There seems to be a common tendency in Nigeria to blame Tinubu for any issues that arise. When people experience difficulties, their immediate reaction is often to point fingers at him. This is simply not accurate; he wasn’t even in the country when many of these incidents occurred,” Onanuga stated.
Opposition figures have claimed that venues reserved for political gatherings were unexpectedly canceled, forcing members of the ADC coalition to navigate long distances to the Shehu Musa Yaradua Centre in Abuja to evade security scrutiny.
Onanuga dismissed assertions that the current administration is quelling dissent or suppressing opposition voices.
“This government upholds the principles of free speech. I have heard accusations suggesting that we are against freedom of expression, which is utterly false. This administration promotes free speech, free opinion, and freedom of the press. If a hotel chooses to cancel an event reservation, does that imply that Tinubu owns the hotel?” he questioned.
Addressing the emerging coalition between Atiku and Obi, Onanuga noted that political alliances do not necessarily guarantee success at the polls.
“Atiku has participated in more presidential races than anyone else—more than Tinubu and Obi combined. Each time, he has fallen short. Buhari faced similar setbacks multiple times, yet he ultimately triumphed, with Tinubu’s support,” he remarked.
He further indicated that Atiku’s approach in the 2023 elections, which largely appealed to northern sentiments, was unsuccessful with Southern voters. “If he attempts that strategy again, how can he expect to gain support from the South? Even with Obi as a running mate, it’s uncertain whether Obi’s supporters from 2023 will back him again,” he added.
Onanuga reiterated that Tinubu continues to enjoy substantial backing in the North, pointing to significant appointments and policies as evidence of the region’s support for his administration.
“This president is doing a great deal for the North. He has placed individuals from the North-West and North-East in senior positions. In politics, reciprocation is essential. The criticism does not align with the reality on the ground. Many are reaping the benefits,” he stated.
He concluded by emphasizing that, at the appropriate time, President Tinubu would leverage the goodwill fostered by his administration’s initiatives across the nation.
A tragic incident has claimed the life of three-year-old Chibuike Uba, who drowned after falling into an uncovered soakaway in Babarinsa, located in the Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State.
According to reports, the incident happened on Wednesday during a visit to his aunt’s house in the community. Chibuike’s mother, Utoro, who lives in the Epe area of Lagos, was packing her belongings in preparation to leave when her son slipped away from her sight. She had stepped out of the room to meet her aunt, who had briefly gone outside to make a phone call.
When her aunt returned, Utoro inquired about her son’s whereabouts, only to realize he was missing. A frantic search ensued, and Uba’s slippers were discovered near an open soakaway on the neighboring compound. Alarmed, she raised an urgent call for help.
In a voice note shared with our correspondent on Thursday, Utoro expressed her distress, saying, “I was packing to leave when my aunt got a call, and my son followed her outside. I thought he was still with her, so I continued packing. When she returned inside, I asked about my son, but she said he had come back inside. I quickly went outside to look for him but couldn’t find him.”
She continued, “That’s when I saw his slippers near the soakaway in the next compound, which has no fence. I shouted that my baby was inside the soakaway. We immediately tried to rescue him and rushed him to the hospital.”
Chibuike was taken to a nearby healthcare facility in Sapati, and later transferred to the General Hospital in Akodo. Despite being placed on oxygen, doctors confirmed that he had passed away.
Utoro accused the landlord of negligence, claiming that her aunt had repeatedly warned him to secure the soakaway, but he had failed to do so. “My aunt told the landlord several times to cover the soakaway, but he kept promising to do so. The wooden cover she used was damaged by flooding, and as of now, the soakaway remains open,” she lamented.
Efforts to reach the landlord for comment were unsuccessful, as contact details could not be obtained. Harmony Tachie, a human rights advocate and founder of the Harmony Advocacy Network, stated that the landlord does not reside in the community. “We’ve been unable to reach him, and we are working to report the incident to the police to seek justice,” she said.
This tragic event follows a similar incident in November 2024, when 10-year-old Obinna Okoro drowned after slipping into floodwaters along Liasu Road, Idimu, during heavy rainfall. Obinna and his younger sister were walking home from church when he lost footing on an unprotected walkway, causing him to be swept away by floodwaters.
…Oborevwori Commits to Supporting Artisans Further
By Sunday Apah
In a show of solidarity, more than 10,000 registered members of the Informal Sector, comprising various associations of artisans and market women in Delta State, publicly endorsed the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the year 2027.
This was made on Thursday during a gathering that celebrated the contributions of artisans to the state’s economy.
The associations represented included Market Women, Hairdressers, Tilers, Butchers, Aluminum Roofers, National Masons, DeeJays, Catering Services, Event Planners, and many others. Their collective support also extended to Motor Technicians, Bricklayers, Shoemakers, Welders, Spare Parts Dealers, Solar Installers, and various service providers across industries such as photography and catering.
Chief Ifeanyi Abanom, chairman of the artisan body, expressed unwavering loyalty to the continuation of the “Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda,” emphasizing that the celebration of Artisans Day served as a platform to endorse both Tinubu and Oborevwori for the upcoming election in 2027.
During the event, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, highlighted the crucial role artisans play in both local communities and the broader economy of Nigeria. He stated, “Artisans are not just service providers; they are creators, innovators, and problem solvers.”
Oborevwori elaborated that the celebration was a significant affirmation of the administration’s commitment to empowering the informal sector. He noted that the event marked a major milestone with the inauguration of 25 local government coordinators and 36 state trade unions, aiming to further organize and professionalize artisans.
The Governor outlined several initiatives his administration has implemented to promote artisanship, including revitalizing vocational training programs and providing new platforms for access to modern skills and microfinance opportunities. He asserted, “Thousands of artisans are now equipped to grow from small-scale operators to full-fledged business owners.”
He also stressed the importance of the newly inaugurated local government coordinators and trade union leaders, urging them to collaborate, promote innovation, and facilitate training programs that will keep artisans competitive on a global scale. Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting artisans through enabling policies and targeted funding.
Furthermore, he encouraged residents to support local artisans, emphasizing that doing so would help create a value chain that retains wealth within the community. Former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa also underscored the importance of empowering artisans, advocating for structured support to ensure that resources reach those who need them most, thus enhancing the overall economy of the state.
Chief Solomon Arenyeka, JP, the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, has congratulated Hon. (Elder) Emmanuel Egbabor, the former State Organizing Secretary of the PDP, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary.
The message of goodwill was shared through a statement released by Arenyeka’s Media Assistant, Olorogun Sunday Apah.
In his statement, Chief Arenyeka praised Egbabor for his significant contributions to the political landscape of Delta State.
He highlighted Egbabor’s previous role as the State Organizing Secretary of the PDP and emphasized his leadership during his tenure as the Chairman of the Isoko North Local Government Council.
Arenyeka described Egbabor as a dedicated public servant who has consistently worked for the betterment of his state.
Arenyeka further acknowledged Egbabor’s unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance.
He expressed admiration for Egbabor’s ability to unite people and foster collaboration across political lines, promoting progress in Isoko North and beyond.
“Your leadership has been a source of inspiration for many, and your dedication to public service is commendable,” Arenyeka stated.
Chief Arenyeka conveyed his best wishes for the year ahead and expressed hopes that Egbabor will continue to thrive in all his endeavors and remain a vital force for positive change in Delta State.
“May your birthday be filled with joy, and may you continue to excel in your efforts to uplift our community,” he added.
The Senate has officially appointed Senator Aniekan Bassey as the new Chairman of the Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the decision during Thursday’s plenary session, confirming that Bassey will take over from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is currently facing suspension.
In February, Akpoti-Uduaghan was reassigned to the Diaspora and NGOs Committee following her removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content during a minor reshuffle.
Bassey serves as the senator for the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District. While no specific reason was provided for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s removal, it is widely believed to be linked to her ongoing suspension.
In May, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court ruled in favor of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement and instructed her to apologize to the Senate. However, the Senate maintains that it has not received an official certified copy of the court’s judgment.
Despite a recent court ruling that invalidated her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has not yet returned to her legislative duties. During a televised interview on Tuesday, she stated that she is awaiting the Certified True Copy of the judgment before officially resuming plenary sessions, emphasizing the importance of legal guidance and adherence to institutional processes.
The Federal High Court criticized her suspension as “excessive and unconstitutional,” yet a legal opinion from July 5, attributed to Senate counsel Paul Daudu (SAN), contended that the ruling did not provide a binding directive for her reinstatement.
As one of only three female senators in the current assembly, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her concerns regarding the delay in her return, arguing that it not only undermines her mandate but also impacts democratic representation for women and children in Nigeria.
“By excluding me from the chambers, the Senate is not just silencing Kogi Central; it’s denying representation for Nigerian women and children. We’ve diminished from eight female senators to just three,” she remarked.
