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Police Bust Drug Cartel, Recover Illicit Drugs in Delta 

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Police Command, in furtherance of the crime-fighting initiative of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has recorded another significant breakthrough in its sustained efforts to combat crime and the proliferation of illicit drugs across the State.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, it was stated that on August 8, 2026, operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), acting on credible and actionable intelligence, carried out an intelligence-led raid on a suspected criminal hideout at Owa-Abbi in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

During the operation, Lucky Oyiboka, 56, was arrested, while a thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of twenty-one (21) bags of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is allegedly involved in the distribution of illicit drugs. Investigation has been intensified to determine the extent of the illicit drug network and identify other persons connected to the operation. The suspect remains in custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterates the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and sustained operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and curbing the proliferation of illicit drugs across the State.

The Command urges members of the public to continue supporting the Police with credible and timely information, assuring that the identities of informants will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Key Changes and Explanations:

“Police Burst Drug Cartel”: Changed to “Police Bust Drug Cartel.” “Bust” is a more common and natural verb in this context for a news headline.
“In a statement by… stated that…”: This was a slight redundancy. Changed to “In a statement by… it was stated that…” or simply “In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, stated that…” (I chose the former for slight variation).
“8th August 2026”: Changed to “August 8, 2026” which is the standard news format for dates.
“reiterates its commitment”: Changed to “reiterates the Command’s commitment” for clarity, making it clear whose commitment is being reiterated.
* Overall Tone: The tone is already quite good for a news story – factual, objective, and informative. The minor changes enhance clarity and standard journalistic phrasing.

Ariole, Former Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Is Dead

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By Sunday Apah

The former Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Hon. Patrick Ariole, has passed away.

A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Udu Local Government Area, who hails from the same community as the late Patrick Ariole, confirmed the news to Daily Shine.

The party chieftain, who declined to have his name published, stated that Ariole had undergone a surgical operation for an undisclosed ailment two weeks ago and that the procedure was successful.

He added that Ariole recuperated speedily and was seen walking around until yesterday, 8 August 2026, when his health deteriorated again.

He was rushed to hospital but later died in the early hours of today, 9 August 2026.

Ariole served as Chairman of Udu Local Government Council from 2002 to 2006, under both transitional and elective administrations.

Fondly called “The Man is Good” by his admirers, Ariole hails from Okpaka Community in Udu Kingdom.

Police Arrest 10 Suspected Members of Vikings Confraternity, Recover Charms, Weapons

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By Sunday Apah

The Police in Akwa Ibom State Command have you arrested ten
suspected cultists and recovered several weapons and other exhibits at different locations in the state.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John who made this known on Saturday in a statement, said it was on 4 August 2026, at about 3:00 p.m., following credible intelligence and as part of an ongoing investigation into cult-related activities, police operatives moved swiftly to Akpatong Village in Esit Eket Local Government Area. They arrested five suspected members of a criminal gang who had been on the Command’s watchlist.

The suspects are Benjamin James, Moses Asuquo, Isaac Jimmy, Akaniyene Ekpo and Aniekan Samuel, all males and residents of Akpatong Village, Esit Eket Local Government Area.

A thorough search of the area yielded one locally made pistol, charms, one machete, a Point-of-Sale (POS) machine, suspected cannabis sativa seeds and the sum of Four Hundred Thousand Naira (₦400,000).

Police believe the items are linked to criminal activities. The exhibits are now in police custody, and investigations are continuing to establish any connection to other cases.

In a related incident on 31 July 2026, operatives responded to a distress call from a member of the public reporting that a group of suspected cultists had gathered unlawfully at a guest house.

The group was allegedly firing sporadically into the air and causing panic in the community.

When the suspects saw the approaching police patrol team, they fled in different directions.

Officers nevertheless arrested five of them: Destiny Moses, 20; Boniface Clement, 23; Raphael Offiong, 27; Victor Obot, 27; and Sunday Victor, 23.

Items recovered at the scene included an abandoned red Mercedes-Benz C300 saloon car with visible bullet damage, one jack knife wrapped with a red ribbon, two face caps bearing the insignia of proscribed cult groups, and three empty bottles of alcoholic beverages believed to have been used during the gathering.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects belong to the proscribed Supreme Vikings Confraternity (SVC), also known as De Norsemen Klan.

Police have intensified efforts to arrest other members of the group who escaped and to recover further exhibits.

Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the courage, professionalism and swift response of the officers involved in both operations.

He reiterated that the Command remains determined to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that cultism, armed violence and other threats to public peace find no place in Akwa Ibom State.

The Command also thanked members of the public whose timely and reliable information continues to support police work.

Residents are urged to remain security conscious, report suspicious activities promptly and partner with the police to maintain peace, law and order across the state.

Moses Ogodo Congratulates Ighoyotu Amori on the occasion of his Birthday celebration

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By Rejoice Ighoviroro

The commissioner for Environment Moses Ogodo, has congratulated Chief Ighoyotu Amori, the chief adviser to Delta State Governor on the occasion of his birthday. Celebrating his life, leadership and contributions to the development of his people.

In a goodwill message to mark the occasion, The Honorable Commissioner described Amori as a distinguished personality whose years of service and commitment to the wellbeing of his people have earned him respect and recognition over the years.

He commended Amori for his leadership qualities, wisdom and dedication to promoting peace, unity and development, noting that his contributions have continued to impact positively on the lives of those around him.

Ogodo said the birthday celebration provides an opportunity to appreciate Amori’s journey, achievements, Impact and the valuable role he has played in Delta state and in the society.

He prayed that God would continue to grant Amori good health, wisdom and strength, while blessing him with many more years of fruitful service and fulfillment.

The community leader wished Amori a happy birthday and a prosperous new year, expressing confidence that he would continue to contribute meaningfully to the progress and development of his people and Delta State at large. Cheers to 74 cheers to more

Oborevwori Extends Warm Congratulatory Greetings to APC National Chairman Yilwatda on His 58th Birthday

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has warmly congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on the occasion of his 58th birthday.

In a goodwill message released in Asaba on Saturday through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor portrayed Yilwatda as an eminent academic, a diligent public official and a steadfast democrat whose entire career has been marked by dedicated service and unwavering loyalty to the nation.

Governor Oborevwori hailed the APC national chairman on reaching this important milestone, noting that his decades of intellectual contribution, public service and active political involvement have made a meaningful impact on the progress of the country.

The governor stated: “I congratulate you, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, on the celebration of your 58th birthday.

“As a distinguished scholar, a conscientious public servant and a resolute democrat, you have consistently left an indelible imprint on the service of our nation.

“On this memorable day, I join your family, friends, associates and the entire membership of the APC in celebrating you and wishing you many more years of purposeful and impactful service.”

He prayed that God would grant the APC national chairman long life, robust health, profound wisdom and the sustained strength required to effectively discharge the duties of his high office.

The governor further wished Yilwatda continuous divine favour and protection, expressing confidence that the celebrant would enjoy many additional years of valuable contribution to national development.

“May your years be prolonged, and may God’s blessings and protection remain with you always. Congratulations,” Oborevwori concluded.

Oborevwori’s Medical Equipment Drive Aims to Slash Delta’s ₦100bn Outbound Healthcare Spending – Onojaeme

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State’s heavy investment in advanced medical equipment is expected to sharply cut the more than ₦100 billion that residents reportedly spend each year seeking treatment outside the state and abroad.

State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, made the disclosure on the sidelines of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 at the Events Centre in Asaba.

Onojaeme explained that the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration’s purchase and installation of sophisticated diagnostic tools has boosted the state’s ability to deliver specialised care that previously forced many residents to travel elsewhere for treatment.

He pointed in particular to the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines now operating at Asaba Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital Warri and the Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara. These facilities, he said, are major steps toward reversing the outflow of patients for medical care.

The investments, he added, will improve access to advanced diagnostic services while keeping substantial financial resources within the state by reducing the number of people who travel to other parts of Nigeria or overseas for treatment.

According to the commissioner, the expanding capacity for high-level medical services forms part of the administration’s wider push to upgrade healthcare delivery and raise key health performance indicators.

“The investment of His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in high-end medical equipment, like the MRI that has just started working at Asaba Specialist Hospital, the one at Central Hospital, Warri, and the one at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, will reduce the medical export we are doing in the state,” Onojaeme stated.

He stressed, however, that government cannot fund the entire healthcare system alone and called on the private sector to invest in complementary areas.

“The medical equipment cannot be done by the state government alone. The investment in the medical sector cannot be done by the state government alone. We need the private sector to come into other areas that they need to invest in to help improve the key performance indicators in the state,” he said.

Onojaeme noted that the results of government interventions are already visible, especially in maternal health. He revealed that maternal mortality in Delta has fallen from roughly 120 deaths per 100,000 live births to below 100 per 100,000 live births.

Healthcare performance, he emphasised, should not be judged simply by the number of hospitals or buildings provided, but by measurable gains in the health and survival of citizens.

“In the health sector, it is not about infrastructure. It is not measured by infrastructure; it is measured by some key performance indicators like maternal mortality and under-five mortality rate,” he said.

Continued government investment, combined with stronger private-sector involvement, would further strengthen the state’s health system, cut medical tourism and help position Delta as a centre for specialised healthcare services.

Governor Oborevwori Congratulates Daniel Mayuku on His 60th Birthday

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has congratulated Hon. Daniel Mayuku, Chairman of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Mayuku as a highly intelligent individual whose work in law, legislation, public service and community development has demonstrated exceptional ability, adaptability and dedication to the progress of Delta State.

Governor Oborevwori noted that Mayuku has stood out over the years through his skill in legal practice, law-making and legislative advocacy, as well as his work in promoting unity and bridging ethnic and tribal differences.

He recalled Mayuku’s service as Executive Director of Projects at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), where he helped deliver development projects in oil-producing communities.

While representing Warri South-West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Mayuku held several important roles, including Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Chairman of the Finance and Appropriation Committee and Chairman of the Education Committee, among others.

The governor praised Mayuku for his long years of committed service and contributions to good governance, especially in legislative work, public administration and the overall advancement of society.

He prayed that God would continue to grant the former lawmaker good health, wisdom and strength so he can make even greater contributions to peace, security and development in Delta State and Nigeria.

Oborevwori Extols Amori’s Towering Legacy as Political Titan Marks 74th Milestone

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has paid glowing tribute to his Chief Adviser, Chief (Dr.) Ighoyota Amori, on the occasion of his 74th birthday, hailing him as a formidable political strategist and unwavering public servant whose enduring impact on the state remains profound and unmistakable.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor celebrated Amori’s decades of resolute service and unflinching dedication to the progress of Delta State and the welfare of its citizens.

Oborevwori specifically spotlighted Amori’s pivotal leadership of the Delta Central 2023 (DC-23) political lobby group, declaring that his deep experience, sharp political acumen, and steadfast devotion to public duty continue to position him as an indispensable asset to the state.

The governor noted that the birthday provided a fitting moment not only to honour Amori’s longevity but also to recognise his lasting imprint on governance, politics, and grassroots development across Delta.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate you, Chief Ighoyota Amori, on your 74th birthday.

“Your years of selfless service to God, Delta State and humanity deserve the highest commendation. Your courage, consistency and unyielding commitment to the principles of leadership and progress have remained truly exceptional.

“As you mark this significant milestone, I celebrate your invaluable contributions to our dear state and pray that God grants you continued good health, wisdom and strength to serve humanity,” the governor stated.

Oborevwori further invoked divine blessings for Amori, praying for many more years of robust health, peace and fulfilment, while wishing him sustained success in all his future endeavours.

CSR, Local Content Non-Negotiable, Oyibode Tells NEPL as They Launch Emadadja Oil Drilling

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By Sunday Apah

NNPC Exploration and Petroleum Limited (NEPL), Lead West Asset, together with officials from an oil drilling firm, paid a formal courtesy and notification visit to the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Hon. Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, JP, FCIA, just before the start of exploration and drilling works in Emadadja Community and surrounding areas.

Led by Chief Duke Reginald, the team arrived at the Council Secretariat in Otor-Udu on Thursday, August 6, 2026.

Their purpose was to officially inform the Council Chairman—who also serves as the Chief Security Officer of the Local Government Area—that operations would begin within days.

Speaking for the group, Chief Matthew Ogheneovo, CCD Representative (HPTP), stated that the visit followed NEPL’s strict operational rules and standard industry practice.

These rules require oil and gas companies to consult relevant government bodies and host communities before any field activity begins.

He stressed that the company remains fully committed to operating responsibly, while honouring the people, the environment and the traditional institutions of the host community.

In response, Udu Council Chairman Oyibode praised NEPL Lead West Asset and the drilling company for approaching the Council first.

He described the move as clear proof of respect for established procedures and responsible corporate conduct.

Speaking both as a political leader and as a specialist in oil and gas matters, Oyibode assured the visitors that his administration stands ready to offer guidance and backing for calm, uninterrupted operations across Udu.

Yet he delivered a firm message: the companies must maintain genuine, ongoing engagement with the host community and ensure their work delivers real socio-economic gains for the area.

He insisted that NEPL and the drilling firm place corporate social responsibility, local content, skills development and community partnership at the centre of their activities, while collaborating closely with community leaders and other key stakeholders.

Effective partnership between oil firms, government and host communities, he declared, remains essential for lasting peace and a climate that attracts sustainable investment.

He specifically urged the companies to launch high-impact CSR projects that will leave enduring benefits for Emadadja Community and the wider Udu Local Government Area.

“A peaceful host community is the surest guarantee of successful operations,” the Chairman emphasised, stressing that the companies must work with the people and respect existing community structures.

The delegation thanked Chairman Oyibode for his fatherly advice and forward-looking directives.

They pledged full commitment to responsible operations and strict adherence to global industry standards.

The representatives further promised to partner with the host community so that their activities produce positive and lasting results for Udu Local Government Area.

Other members of the visiting team included Alhaji Kadiri Nasiru, JPMT Representative; Hon. Felix German, CCD; James Ekeanyanwu, CCD; and Pius Awhan, CCF.

Four Jailed for Illegal Forex, Naira Trading

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By Sunday Apah

Justice F.N. Ogazi of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, 7 August 2026, pronounced four individuals guilty and imposed custodial sentences of two and six months respectively for transgressions involving unauthorized foreign-exchange dealings and the illicit commodification of naira banknotes.

The adjudged offenders—Ahmad Umar Baros, Aminu Umar Injay, Yusuf Suleimon and Olasunbo Sholanke—had been independently arraigned the preceding day by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on discrete one-count indictments.

The indictment preferred against Baros alleged that he, at a material time in 2026 within Lagos State and the court’s territorial competence, conducted foreign-exchange transactions outside the officially sanctioned market, thereby contravening Section 11(1)(a) of the National Economic Intelligence Committee (Establishment etc.) Act, 1994, an offence punishable under Section 11(2) of the same statute.

Yusuf Suleimon and Olasunbo Sholanke faced separate accusations of the unlawful sale and trafficking of naira notes. One representative charge asserted that Suleimon, on or about 25 July 2026 in Lagos, sold and traded in notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, thereby violating Section 21(4) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 (as amended), punishable under Section 21(1) thereof.

Each defendant entered an unequivocal plea of guilt upon the charges being formally read.

Thereafter, prosecuting counsel N.K. Ukoha, Ebuka Okongwu and U.S. Kyari recapitulated the evidential matrix and petitioned the court to record convictions and impose commensurate penalties.

In the consequential judgment, Justice Ogazi held all four defendants criminally liable, consigning Ahmad Umar Baros to two months’ imprisonment while the remaining trio each received six-month terms, subject to the alternative of a ₦100,000 fine per convict.

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