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Jonathan, Oborevwori, Diri, Ibori Honour Pa Penawou at Final Farewell

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By Sunday Apah

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri and former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori on Saturday joined the bereaved family, close associates and political allies in paying their final respects to the late Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou.

The solemn funeral service, conducted at Akugbene Town in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, drew a distinguished assembly of political figures, senior government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and other eminent personalities who came to celebrate the memory of the departed patriarch.

Prince Penawou, who passed away at the remarkable age of 104, was the father of Delta State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs Prince Kelly Penawou and Chief Joseph Penawou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Marine Engineering Services Limited.

The attendance of the former President, the two sitting governors and the former Delta governor highlighted the stature of the Penawou family and the wide network of relationships cultivated by the deceased and his household over many decades.

Among those present were former Delta State Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, former Senator James Manager, Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Managing Director of Renaissance Africa Energy Mr. Tony Attah, Seplat Chief Executive Officer Engr. Effiong Okon, and numerous other political leaders and public office holders.

The occasion afforded dignitaries, family members and other mourners the chance to offer prayers and express condolences to the Penawou family while reflecting on the long and meaningful life of a man who lived well beyond a century.

The funeral rites concluded in a dignified celebration of the deceased’s extraordinary lifespan, with relatives and guests expressing deep appreciation for the privilege of having shared in his enduring and influential journey.

The death of Prince Penawou brought to a close an exceptional 104-year sojourn, leaving behind a lasting legacy cherished by his family, his community and the many lives he touched.

Tipper Truck Crushes Two Brothers to Death at a Palm Wine Joint in Kiagbodo (Videos & Photos)

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By Sunday Apah

Tragedy struck along Erhuwaren Road in Kiagbodo town, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, this week when a tipper truck veered off the road and crushed two brothers to death while they sat drinking at a nearby palm wine joint.

The victims, whose identities have not been officially released, had just inspected the site of an ongoing electrification project at the Technical College in Kiagbodo.

One of the brothers had reportedly won the contract to electrify the college and invited his sibling to join him in executing the job.

After completing their inspection, the two settled down at the palm wine joint for a drink when the heavy tipper, travelling along the Erhuwaren route, suddenly left the roadway and smashed into them.

Shocked bystanders who could not believe the pair were dead rushed the lifeless bodies to the Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian. Both men were confirmed dead on arrival.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe confirmed the incident when contacted and said fuller details would be released later.

When a crew from *Daily Shine Newspaper* visited the scene on Thursday, 13 August 2026, the tipper still stood at the spot of the crash.

The once-busy palm wine joint was deserted, with no one present to offer further information on the devastating accident that claimed the lives of the two brothers in an instant.

INEC Set To Conduct Bye-Election For Vacant Udu State Constituency (Letter Attached)

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By Sunday Apah

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced date to conduct election to fill the vacant Udu State Constituency in Delta State.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, on 14th August 2026.

INEC has fixed 21st–25th August 2026 for the conduct of party primaries for vacant state constituencies between 21st-25th August, 2026.

“The period for the conduct of primaries for bye-elections to fill recent vacancies into Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, Disina and Sakwa State Constituencies of Bauchi State, Udu State Constituency of Delta State, and Dawakin Kudu State Constituency of Kano State coincide with that of restored state constituencies in Delta and Kogi states.

“Elections into these constituencies including that of Udu State Constituency have been fixed for 19th September 2026.

“Political parties are requested to submit notices of their various primaries to the Commission before their scheduled dates.

“The Commission remains committed to ensuring credible, inclusive and transparent electoral processes,” it added.

It would be recalled that the Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 officially declared the Udu State Constituency seat, previously held by Hon. Collins Egbetamah, vacant, following Egbetamah’s departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his subsequent affiliation with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The declaration was initiated by a motion from the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo.

The motion received unanimous approval during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

Speaker Guwor stated that the seat was declared vacant in accordance with Section 109(1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

He instructed the Clerk of the House to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of this resolution.

Accordingly, this Honourable House is satisfied that the constitutional requirements under Section 109 of the Constitution have been fulfilled.

Therefore, pursuant to Section 109(1) and (2), I hereby declare the seat of the Honourable Member representing Udu State Constituency vacant with immediate effect,” Guwor stated.

This quote emphasizes the legal basis for the House’s decision, confirming that all necessary constitutional conditions for declaring the seat vacant due to a party defection were met.

Guwor further directed the Clerk to transmit the resolution to INEC and other pertinent authorities.

He requested that INEC undertake the necessary constitutional steps to organize a by-election to fill the vacancy, as stipulated by Section 116(2) of the constitution.

Presenting the motion, titled “Consideration of the Letter from Honourable Member Representing Udu State Constituency Pursuant to Section 109 of the Constitution,” Hon. Nwaobi highlighted that documents before the House confirmed Egbetamah’s defection from the APC to the NDC while still serving his term

He referenced Section 109(1)(g), which mandates that a member must relinquish their seat if they join another political party after being elected under the banner of a different party, unless specific constitutional exceptions apply.

Economic/ Investment Summit: Oborevwori’s Bold Initiative To Move Delta To Investment-driven Economy – Ntekume

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By Mathias Ogbagah

Chairman of the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff Oborevwori 2027, Olorogun Josiah Ntekume has described the just-concluded Economic/Investment Summit of Delta State government as a bold and timely initiative that demonstrates Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to moving Delta State from dependence on government spending to a stronger, investment-driven economy.

Ntekume, addressing journalists in Delta State, said the summit provides a platform for government, investors, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, development partners and local businesses to sit at the same table, identify opportunities and discuss practical ways of attracting investments into the state.

His words: “For me, it is not just another political event. It is about creating the environment for businesses to grow, jobs to be created, and the state’s enormous economic potential to be converted into real opportunities for our people”.

According to him, the initiative is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Governor that is fundamentally about economic growth, investment, job creation and improving opportunities for Nigerians. At the state level, Governor Oborevwori’s investment initiative complements that broader direction.

“A state government cannot create every job by itself. What government can do is provide the infrastructure, policies, security, incentives and confidence that encourage the private sector to invest. That is the direction Governor Oborevwori is pursuing.

“I see the summit as part of a larger partnership between the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Delta State’s MORE Agenda—More Prosperity, Opportunities, Roadmaps and Enhanced Peace and Security”, he stated.

Speaking on the benefits of the summit to Deltans, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain noted that the ultimate beneficiaries of the summit are Deltans, saying that when genuine investments come to the state, they will bring employment opportunities, contracts, skills development, new businesses, technology transfer and increased economic activity.

“Our young people stand to gain from jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities. Our small and medium-sized businesses can gain access to new markets and partnerships.

Communities can benefit from economic activities around new investments, while the state itself benefits from a stronger revenue base.

Ntekume advised that the success of the summit should not be measured by speeches or photographs, but by the investments that eventually come into the state, the jobs created and the businesses that expand.

While encouraging local contractors in the state to embrace the opportunity, he said, “I will strongly encourage our local contractors to position themselves for the opportunities that this initiative can create. Local contractors must not wait until outsiders come into Delta and take every opportunity. They should upgrade their capacity, maintain proper documentation, improve their professional standards and form strategic partnerships where necessary, he advised.

“An investment summit can expose local contractors to investors, developers, financial institutions and major companies looking for credible local partners. That can translate into construction contracts, supply opportunities, consultancy engagements, employment and long-term business relationships.

“My advice to our contractors is simple: don’t just attend the summit—prepare for the opportunities the summit can create”.

Advising Deltans on the 2027 general elections, he said, “My advice to Deltans is that 2027 should be an election about performance, continuity, competence and the future of our state—not an election driven by bitterness, propaganda or empty promises.

“Deltans should look at what has been done, what is currently being done and what can realistically be achieved in the next administration. They should ask themselves: Who has demonstrated the capacity to provide stability, attract investment, create opportunities and continue the development of Delta State?

“As Chairman of the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff Oborevwori 2027, our position is clear: we believe Governor Sheriff Oborevwori deserves the opportunity to consolidate the gains of his administration and take Delta further.

“I urge Deltans to vote wisely, peacefully and based on performance rather than propaganda, development rather than division, and the future rather than sentiment.

“Delta deserves continuity where continuity is working. Delta deserves progress, and progress requires responsible leadership”, he noted.

Just In: INEC Fixes Date for Ughelli South II, Abraka, Isoko North II Constituencies Primary Elections

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By Sunday Apah

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially restored three more constituencies in Delta and one more in Kogi State.

INEC has fixed 21st–25th August 2026 for the conduct of party primaries for the restored constituencies.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, on 14th August 2026.

According to the statement, “INEC wishes to notify the public that it has restored four more previously suppressed State House of Assembly constituencies, three more in Delta and one more in Kogi State, pursuant to the judgment of the courts directing the restoration of the additional constituencies in the two states.

“The restored constituencies are: Delta State – Abraka, Isoko North II and Ughelli South II State Constituencies; and Kogi State – Yagba West II State Constituency.

“The Commission has fixed 21st–25th August 2026 for the conduct of party primaries for the restored constituencies.

“This coincides with the period for the conduct of primaries for bye-elections to fill recent vacancies into Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, Disina and Sakwa State Constituencies of Bauchi State, Udu State Constituency of Delta State, and Dawakin Kudu State Constituency of Kano State. Elections into these constituencies have been fixed for 19th September 2026.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all other timelines and activities contained in the already published revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election shall apply to the restored constituencies.

“Political parties are requested to submit notices of their various primaries to the Commission before their scheduled dates.

“The Commission remains committed to ensuring credible, inclusive and transparent electoral processes,” it added.

Oborevwori, Okowa, Oritsejafor, Others Pay Final Respects at Funeral of Delta APC Chairman’s Mother

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his wife Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa attended the funeral service of the late Mrs. Felicia Oritseolumewo Arenyeka on Friday.

She was the mother of Chief Solomon Arenyeka, the Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The service took place at First Baptist Church in Warri. It drew political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members and well-wishers who came to honour the deceased and offer comfort to the Arenyeka family.

Among those present were Lady Catherine Onyeme, wife of the Deputy Governor; Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Senator Ede Dafinone; Hon. Nicholas Mutu; Hon. Francis Waive and several other notable political and public figures.

In a sermon titled “Life’s Practical Challenges to Christians and Office Holders,” the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Warri, Rev. Jesse Okoroji Jnr., said the occasion was both a time of mourning and a celebration of a life that had positively influenced many people.

He described the late Mrs. Arenyeka as “a woman of songs,” adding that her life reflected beauty, inspiration and a beneficial impact on her family and community.

Rev. Okoroji called on Christians and those in leadership to recognise the real-life difficulties that come with living, leading and serving. He emphasised humility, steadfastness and faithfulness in carrying out their duties.

The pastor praised Governor Oborevwori for the significant progress recorded across Delta State, especially the ongoing urban renewal and infrastructure work that is transforming Warri. He singled out the Warri Urban Transformation programme, pointing to the construction of large flyovers, bridges and other urban facilities. According to him, these projects are giving Warri a fresh appearance that he compared to Dubai. He urged the governor to continue the efforts aimed at repositioning Warri and the state for lasting growth and prosperity.

Rev. Okoroji also thanked the governor for intervening on the Warri–Sapele–Benin Highway and appealed to the contractor to speed up the work so that motorists, passengers and residents who rely on the road can enjoy much-needed relief.

He further commended the governor for the peace that currently prevails in Delta State and prayed that peace, unity and security would continue. He noted that lasting development is possible only where peace and security exist.

The service gave those present a chance to reflect on the certainty of death, the duties of leadership and the lasting influence of a life well lived. Dignitaries and sympathisers offered their condolences to the Arenyeka family.

Mrs. Arenyeka was remembered as a woman whose values and example left a lasting mark on her family and everyone who knew her.

Police Arrest Two Suspected Drug Dealers, 132 Sachets of Tramadol

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Police have arrested two suspected drug dealers, 132 sachets of tramadol and recovered a stolen vehicle in separate operations across the state.

In a statement issued by Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, on 14th August, 2026, stated that the incident happened on 13th August 2026, when operatives of ‘A’ Division, Warri, received a report that an ash-coloured 2003 Toyota Corolla with registration number WW-579MD was stolen from where it was parked at Awani Close, Ajamugha, Warri.

According to the statement, “Detectives of the Division immediately commenced a coordinated operation in conjunction with the Dragon Patrol Team, leading to the recovery of the vehicle along Winners Church Road, Ughelli, barely two hours after the report was received. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspects connected with the crime.

Also, on 13th August 2026, operatives of police patrol team attached to Operation Delta Shield, while conducting a stop-and-search operation along Nnebisi Road, Asaba, intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number ZBL-549-XA.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 132 sachets of 100mg Tramadol and the arrest of two suspects, Hillary Osondu, 54, and Abubakar Bello, 54. The suspects are in custody, while investigation is ongoing.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, commended the operatives for their prompt response and charged officers across the command to sustain the momentum through proactive and intelligence-led policing.

The CP further urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly provide the Police with credible information on suspicious persons and activities, assuring that the command will continue to deploy available resources towards the prevention and detection of crime across the State.

Temple Slams Omo-Agege’s Fabricated Assault Claims, Demands Immediate Apology, Video Proof

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By Sunday Apah

The Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Protocol, Mr. Simon Mudi, popularly known as Temple, has vehemently denounced what he described as a malicious and baseless allegation levelled against him by Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.

Speaking with journalists via telephone on Friday, 14 August 2026, Temple rejected in the strongest terms the claim that he attacked certain persons at Usiefrun the 13th of August, 2026.

He challenged the senator to immediately produce the video evidence he allegedly referenced on his Facebook page, insisting that no such incident occurred.

Temple made it clear that he is presently receiving medical treatment in Asaba and could not possibly have been present at Usiefrun.

He questioned how Omo-Agege and his associates could claim to have sighted him at the location when he was confined to the state capital for health reasons.

He further clarified his identity and origins, stating firmly that he is an indigene of Ekakpamre community and has no residential or ancestral connection to Usiefrun, contrary to the senator’s assertion.

In a scathing assessment of the senator’s motives, Temple accused Omo-Agege of premature political desperation.

He said the senator was already “wailing ahead of his looming failure” in the 2027 general elections, describing the outburst as both premature and revealing of deep insecurity.

Temple predicted that Omo-Agege would suffer a decisive defeat at the hands of the erudite Senator Ede Dafinone, advising him to wait until after the polls before issuing such complaints.

Issuing a firm ultimatum, Temple declared that if Omo-Agege fails to tender an unreserved public apology within 48 hours and produce the purported video evidence, he will have no alternative but to pursue full legal redress against the senator for defamation and false accusation.

Nigerian Army Rescues Nine Abducted Passengers (Photos)

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By Sunday Apah

Nigerian Army personnel has successfully extricated nine persons who had been abducted, demonstrating a rapid and decisive response to a kidnapping incident on the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road within the Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The rescue endeavour was executed by troops stationed at Patrol Base Itobe, following intelligence reports indicating that suspected kidnappers had ambushed travelers and seized several passengers along the aforementioned route.

Upon reaching the scene, military personnel discovered a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Sienna vehicle abandoned at the roadside, with all occupants unaccounted for.

Without hesitation, the troops initiated a pursuit operation, utilizing the escape route of the fleeing perpetrators.

This operation led the soldiers to the periphery of Adumu Community in the Dekina Local Government Area, where they engaged the kidnappers.

During the subsequent exchange of gunfire, the military forces overpowered the criminals through superior firepower, forcing them to abandon their captives and retreat into the dense foliage with what appeared to be gunshot injuries.

The operation culminated in the successful liberation of nine kidnapped victims, identified as two elderly men, two elderly women, four additional adult males, and one infant.

The rescued individuals were promptly secured and subsequently transferred to the Nigeria Police, Itobe Area Command, for requisite processing and reunification with their families.

Concurrently, troops are maintaining an active pursuit of the fleeing abductors, with coordinated search operations ongoing to locate any remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the assault.

The Nigerian Army reaffirms its steadfast dedication, in conjunction with other security agencies, to safeguarding lives and property nationwide.

Citizens are urged to continue their support for security operations by furnishing timely and credible intelligence, thereby facilitating swift responses to criminal acts.

Police Arrest Five Suspected Drug Dealers, Recover Illicit Drugs, Cash

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By Sunday Apah

The Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested five suspected drug dealers and recovered illicit drugs and cash.

In a statement by the Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, it was stated that the operation was conducted in furtherance of the Commissioner of Police’s Operation Zero Black Spot and his sustained directive to deny criminals safe havens across the state.

According to the statement: “Following credible intelligence received by operatives of the Command on 11 August 2026 at about 1600hrs, operatives of the Command conducted a targeted raid on a suspected criminal hideout at Mbak Itam, Ikot Mbang.

“During the operation, five suspects believed to be involved in the illicit distribution and sale of controlled substances were arrested. They are Abraham Emmanuel (male), Happiness Archibong (female), Esther Okon (female), Esther Udo (female) and Chinedu Benjamin (male).

“Several other suspects fled the scene upon sighting the police vehicle.

“Items recovered from the suspects include large quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, Tramadol, Loud and Ice, as well as the sum of ₦42,000.00, suspected to be proceeds connected to the illicit drug trade.

“The Commissioner of Police has commended the operatives for their courage, vigilance and commitment to duty, while reiterating that the Command will continue to sustain intelligence-led operations against criminal elements, particularly those who exploit isolated locations as bases for drug trafficking, cultism and other violent crimes.

“The Command wishes to make it unequivocally clear that there will be no safe haven for criminals in Akwa Ibom State. The ongoing Zero Black Spot initiative is aimed at identifying, disrupting and dismantling locations being used to facilitate criminal activities, while strengthening security and public confidence across communities.

“The Command therefore calls on members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information that can assist the Police in preventing and detecting crime,” it added.

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