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Police Arrest Two Native Doctors, Three Suspected Kidnappers, 184 Internet Fraudsters in Delta

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By Sunday Apah

The police in Delta State have arrested two notorious native doctors, three suspected kidnappers, and 184 internet fraudsters at different locations in Delta and Edo States.

In a statement issued by the Delta Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Thursday, it was reported that 247 rounds of ammunition for submachine guns (SMG), charms, laptops, phones, and other items were recovered.

He explained in the statement that the arrests were a sequel to a series of intelligence reports received regarding the planned abduction of several high-profile individuals in Sapele, Oghara, and their environs by a notorious syndicate under the leadership of one Owei Abebo, alias “ADUSA.”

He said that ADUSA has been on the Command’s watch list since 2021 but was recently caught when operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, swung into a strategic operation.

According to the statement, “On July 19, 2025, in the early hours of the day, the operatives arrested one Peter Benson, a 35-year-old male suspect from Kwale in Ndokwa LGA, Delta State, who is a suspected spiritual herbalist responsible for ritual preparations for the criminal gang.”

“Following intensive interrogation, Peter Benson led operatives to another suspect, one Joseph Saniyo, 63 years old, from Ajakurama Community, Ovia South-West LGA, Edo State.”

“Saniyo, identified as the syndicate’s primary spiritualist, was found in possession of three live tortoises and other fetish items believed to be used in criminal fortification rituals.”

“Acting swiftly on further intelligence provided by the arrested suspects, operatives stormed Oghara and successfully apprehended the ring leader, Owei Abebo a.k.a ‘ADUSA,’ aged 42, along with the following male accomplices: Ebi Maye, 41 years, from Poloububor Community in Warri North LGA, Delta State, and Happy Obegha, 39 years, from Ajakurama Community, Ovia North-East LGA, Edo State.”

“During a thorough search of the suspects’ hideouts, the operatives recovered 247 rounds of live ammunition for a submachine gun (SMG).”

“Preliminary investigations revealed that their latest plot involved planned coordinated kidnappings across Sapele and Oghara, which were successfully foiled after their arrest.”

“Also, the Command, in a combined effort with the Nigerian Army, has recorded a significant breakthrough in the fight against internet fraud and other cyber-related offenses.”

“On July 21, 2025, at about 17:45 hours, operatives of the Ekpan Division, acting on credible intelligence in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, carried out a coordinated raid on a location within Post Housing Estate, Effurun, where suspected internet fraud and terrorism financing activities were taking place.”

“The operation resulted in the arrest of one Kelvin Odini, aged 33 years, and 183 others engaged in online fraud-related activities.”

“Items recovered from the suspects include 273 assorted laptops, 97 assorted smartphones, one iPad, one tablet phone, nine laptop chargers, and two Wi-Fi routers.”

“All suspects and exhibits have been taken into custody as investigations intensify to unravel the extent of their operations and apprehend other accomplices,” he added.

Kwode Urges Urhobo to Produce the Highest Votes for Oborevwori in 2027 Elections

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By Sunday Apah

In a passionate appeal to the Urhobo people in Delta State, Dcn. Matthew Kwode, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, has urged the Urhobo people to rally behind Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the incumbent Governor, as the 2027 elections draw near.

His call for support comes in light of the numerous developmental strides initiated by the Oborevwori administration, which he believes warrant a strong backing from the Urhobo electorate.

Speaking to DAILY SHINE NEWS, Kwode outlined a range of successful projects and initiatives that have been rolled out under Oborevwori’s leadership. “Governor Oborevwori has made significant improvements in our infrastructure and public services,” he stated.

Among the accomplishments he highlighted were the construction of flyovers, bridges, and new roads, all of which have contributed to enhanced connectivity within the state. He also emphasized the establishment of modern health facilities and various empowerment programs targeted at uplifting vulnerable populations.

Kwode acknowledged that in previous elections, some members of the Urhobo community in the Delta Central Senatorial District were skeptical about Oborevwori’s capacity to lead effectively. This skepticism translated into less favorable voting patterns during the last election, where the governor did not receive the level of support expected from the Urhobo electorate.

However, Kwode argued that the governor’s performance over the last few years should alleviate any lingering doubts about his abilities. “Now that he has proven himself, it is imperative for the Urhobo people to recognize his achievements and vote en masse in 2027,” he urged.

Kwode pointed out that with the achievements of the current administration, a second term for Oborevwori would mean the continuation of policies and projects that have already begun to yield positive results. “Our Senatorial District must not miss the opportunity to solidify the progress we have made. Supporting Oborevwori means committing to a future built on sustainable development,” he added.

Kwode believes that a strong vote for Oborevwori will also send a message to other political entities in the state regarding the Urhobo people’s expectations. “We must show our unity and willingness to support a leader who has demonstrated that he can deliver on his promises,” he remarked.

He emphasized that the strength of the Urhobo vote in the upcoming elections will be crucial for ensuring that development remains a priority for the state government. He called on community leaders, youth, and women in the Urhobo community in the Delta Central Senatorial District to engage in advocacy for voter registration and participation.

“Every vote counts, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that we mobilize and educate our people about the importance of being part of this democratic process,” Kwode said, urging the community to come together as one voice in support of Governor Oborevwori.

Delta State Greenlights N230 Billion for Infrastructure Projects

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…Plans Include Flyover Constructions in Agbor, Ughelli

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Executive Council has sanctioned a budget of N230 billion for various projects across multiple sectors, reflecting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure enhancement and the welfare of the residents of Delta State.

The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a press conference following the Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Asaba, which was chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Accompanied by Commissioners Sonny Ekedayen (Economic Planning), Reuben Izeze (Works – Highways and Urban Roads), Dr. Joseph Onojaeme (Health), Hon. Ebikeme Clark (Riverine Infrastructure), and Chief Press Secretary Sir Festus Ahon, Aniagwu detailed that the council approved a range of projects across essential areas such as health care, transportation, energy, and riverine development.

He noted that the Council also took steps to revoke underperforming contracts, ensuring that communities receive the best value for government investments.

Among the significant approvals was the design and construction of a flyover at Uromi Junction in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, budgeted at ₦59.7 billion, and a similar flyover at Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, on the Ughelli/Patani (East-West) Highway, costing ₦39.3 billion.

Other approved initiatives include the construction of the Kolokolo to Tisun road in Warri North, payment of retirement benefits to staff from Delta State University in Abraka, and the rehabilitation of the Bomadi to Gbaregolor road.

Additionally, the council approved the completion of Bulu-Angiama Road off the Ughelli/Patani Expressway and Ituru Road in Elume, Sapele Local Government Area.

A budget of ₦1.05 billion was allocated for projects in Warri South-West Local Government Area via the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructure Development. Construction of access roads to the Model Technical College in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area, was also endorsed.

Flood control measures were approved for a stretch from Orikeze Avenue Junction through Obi, Enuma, and Uromi Roads to Orogodo River in Ika South, totaling ₦15.3 billion, and for the completion of Olikili Layout Roads in Asaba, Oshimili South Local Government Area.

Furthermore, the reconstruction of the dual carriageway on Warri-Sapele Road, from the Spare Parts Market U-turn to Ohorhe Junction, was also given the green light.

The council approved the construction of roads connecting Oko-Amakom to Oko-Obiokpu and Oko-Anala in Oshimili South, and enhancements to Okowa Crescent off the Ughelli/Patani Expressway. Flood mitigation projects were also approved for Summit Road, Newell Street, and neighboring areas in Oshimili South LGA.

The adoption of a new Delta State Electricity Policy was also ratified, along with Governor Oborevwori’s prior approval for the transfer of General Hospital, Otor-Udu, to the Federal Government, laying the groundwork for a Federal Medical Centre in Owvian, Udu Local Government Area.

To bolster healthcare delivery, approvals were granted for acquiring and installing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines at key hospitals, including Asaba Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital Warri, and Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara.

The Council allocated ₦10 billion for compensating landowners affected by the right-of-way acquisition for the Second Niger Bridge Access Road and Bypass that will connect Oko, Asaba, Ibusa, and Okpanam.

Other approvals include the completion of Unoghovo Community Road that links the Benin Expressway to Ovade in Ethiope West Local Government Area and the construction of internal roads at the College of Education, Mosogar (Phase II).

In Warri South-West, the council approved the development of internal roads in Jagbala and Kantu communities, as well as the reconstruction and asphalt overlay of the Emu-Obodeti to Abbi to Abraka road commencing from Emu-Obodeti Junction in Ndokwa West Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, further elaborated on the Agbor flyover, describing it as a significant and strategic measure. He indicated that this junction has had a troubling history of accidents, particularly with night travelers heading to Abuja.

The new construction plan includes two roundabouts and a 30-meter span beam, which is considerably longer than beams used in comparable projects, like those in Warri.

Due to the size of the beams, specialized equipment not currently available in Nigeria will be imported from Germany by the contractor, Julius Berger, which contributes to the project’s elevated cost.

Izeze emphasized that the flyover will not only minimize accidents but also enhance productivity in Agbor and its agrarian surroundings, underscoring the Governor’s commitment to equitable infrastructure development in the state.

Delta Assembly Passes Community Security Corps Agency Bill

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By Sunday Apah

In a move to enhance the government’s ability to tackle security challenges in Delta State, the State House of Assembly approved the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency bill on Tuesday.

The bill, sponsored by Hon. (Dr) Isaac Anwuzia, Chairman of the House Committee on Peace and Security and representative for Aniocha South, was presented for its third reading during a plenary session overseen by Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

The House Leader, Hon. (Dr) Emeka Nwaobi (Aniocha North), put forth two motions advocating for the suspension of House rule 12, as well as orders 80, 82, and 83, which allowed the House to proceed with the third reading and approval of the bill.

These motions received unanimous support, with seconding contributions from Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo (Ethiope East) and Hon. Charles Emetulu (Ndokwa West), Chairman of the House Committee on Education.

In response to the development, Speaker Guwor referenced Section 14, sub-section 2b of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stating, “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”

Guwor highlighted that the successful enactment of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill illustrates the Legislature’s steadfast dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

He noted that substantial development within the state is unattainable without a secure environment, declaring, “This Bill, which has been thoroughly debated and approved, is a vital advancement in bolstering our community security framework.”

“This reflects our collective recognition of the changing security landscape and our proactive measures to guarantee that every resident of Delta can live and work in tranquility,” he added.

The Speaker expressed his deep appreciation to his fellow lawmakers for their commitment, insightful contributions, and dedication during the bill’s discussions, saying, “Your efforts are truly commendable.”

Guwor expressed optimism that the bill, upon receiving the Governor’s approval, will significantly foster peace, order, and safety throughout the state.

As the primary sponsor, Hon. Anwuzia commented that the bill focuses on community policing.

He expressed hope that the implementation of this new law, pending the Governor’s assent, would effectively address the various security issues troubling the state and broader regions of the country.

Anwuzia detailed that the bill underwent extensive legislative scrutiny to create a robust framework aimed at strengthening localized security efforts while also addressing key concerns such as funding, recruitment, and the involvement of essential stakeholders.

He extended his gratitude to the Speaker and his colleagues for their support throughout the legislative process.

The adoption of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency bill marks another notable achievement of the 8th Delta State Assembly under the leadership of Emomotimi Guwor.

Omo-Agege’s Hired One Million Man-Match, A Show of Shame, Desperation of A Man Struggling For Political Relevance 

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By Matthew Kwode 

It is a great disappointment that Senator Ovie Omo-Agege could sponsor a shabby one Million-Man match that serves no useful purposes. It shows the abysmal depth to which he has sunk. It’s obvious that Omo-Agege is struggling to beat the gubernatorial record of Great Ogboru who has contested all governorship elections in Delta State under different political parties.

The time has come for Omo-Agege to realize that the game is up as his support base has dwindled. No reasonable Deltan is prepared to enter the same boat with Omo-Agege again after his poor and shameful outing in 2023.

This is 2025 and after a brief flirt with APC Omo-Agege is looking for the next Political space to lay his eggs.

Compare this scenario with that of Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State who moved seamlessly from PDP to APC with the entire PDP stakeholders, you will see the difference between men and boys.

Who are those still with Omo-Agege except for his rag tag supporters who are now planning to desert him? Deltans are tired of his Shenanigans and are waiting for 2027 to shove him into the abyss of political irrelevance .

*Matthew Kwode*
_*Is the Executive Assistant, (Political) to the Governor of Delta State*_

Oborevwori Praises Seplat Energy’s CSR Efforts, Commitment to Local Communities

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…Promises Support for a Favorable Investment Environment

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed his appreciation for Seplat Energy Plc’s ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and their proactive engagement with local communities.

He assured the company of his administration’s continued backing and a supportive environment for their operations within the state.

Governor Oborevwori extended his assurances during a meeting with the Seplat Energy management team, led by CEO Mr. Roger Brown, at Government House, Asaba, on Tuesday.

He acknowledged the company’s effective community relations strategy, particularly highlighting their empowerment initiatives, educational support, and healthcare services as essential to fostering peace in oil-producing regions.

“As a long-time observer of your activities before assuming office, I have noted how you interact with and uplift your host communities. Your contributions, from educational donations to healthcare outreach, reflect a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility,” said Governor Oborevwori.

“The efforts you invest in community empowerment through educational resources, teacher training, and other CSR efforts deserve commendation.”

The governor further stated, “These initiatives facilitate harmonious relations between international oil firms and their host communities.

Your commitment to peace promotes increased production. As emphasized in my MORE Agenda, we will continue to create an enabling environment for your operations to flourish.”

Oborevwori also praised Seplat Energy’s employment practices, revealing that 30% of its workforce originates from Delta State.

He urged for more representation of local community members in leadership roles, commenting, “While hiring local talent is important, we also want to see more individuals from our communities in management positions in the future. I believe this will come to fruition.”

The governor addressed some challenges highlighted by Seplat Energy, assuring, “I understand there have been difficulties in your deeper operations that may not have been adequately communicated. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring that these issues are resolved.”

“Today, our state holds a respected position nationally, thanks to our contributions at the federal level, achieved through peace and collaboration,” he added. “We prioritize dialogue over confrontation as a means of resolving grievances, since conflict does not benefit either the local communities or the companies involved. When production is halted, there can be no compliance with CSR obligations.”

Governor Oborevwori stressed, “Economic sabotage negatively impacts our crude oil production and deters investors, ultimately restricting job creation and wealth generation. I assure you we will strive for a mutually beneficial partnership.”

Earlier, Mr. Roger Brown reiterated the strategic importance of Delta State to Seplat Energy’s growth, noting it hosts two of the company’s most valuable onshore blocks. He stated that prior to the ExxonMobil acquisition, 30% of their workforce consisted of Delta indigenes and highlighted key achievements, including nearing the completion of a gas plant in Sapele with a daily capacity of 1 million scf, along with integrated Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and future Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facilities.

Brown also emphasized the company’s ongoing CSR projects, which have benefitted over 50,000 students through the Pearls Quiz Programme, the establishment of five STEAM labs, and providing eye care for 2,000 patients through the “I Can See” initiative. Furthermore, he announced a plan to phase out routine gas flaring by 2025, five years ahead of Nigeria’s national target.

Disinformation : Uzum Cautions Mischief makers, Blackmailers In Ika Federal Constituency

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By Johnson Ebigide

Eugene Azuka Uzum has enjoined mischief makers and blackmailers in Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State, who involve themselves in any form of disinformation to tarnish the image of individuals or groups in the constituency, the state and beyond, to desist from the infamous act.

Uzum who is a policy analyst and core member of the Delta Unity Group (DUG), an association of the progressives for good governance, stated this against the background of a publication on the Facebook, purporting a planned move by the DUG to dump the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.

He frowned at such unverifiable disinformation of the public, primarily to taint the integrity and sterling qualities of some individuals in Ika Nation, describing the fabricators of such glaring falsehood as not only mischief makers, but unrepentant blackmailers.

Uzum wondered what such mischief makers and blackmailers in Ika Nation stood to gain from involving themselves in, what he termed, political insensitivity and ought-right hatred for their brothers and sisters from the same Ika homeland.

He said that the DUG with the clear vision of the founding leaders of the group across the state had not derailed from its mission statement, geared towards good governance in the state and the country, adding that those planning to cast aspersions on the noble goals of the group were enemies of the public.

Uzum maintained that not only had Ika Nation benefitted from the inspiring need for good governance as espoused by the DUG, but that it had started showing some positive results of accountability and responsiveness in the governance of the state.

Work to Commence Soon on Express Junction Ovwian – ECN Road – Oyibode

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By Sunday Apah

Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, has revealed that construction work will soon begin on the Express Junction Ovwian to ECN road.

Oyibode, who made this known during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Urhobo Ex-Agitators at the Council Secretariat on Monday, July 21, 2025, stated that the Delta State Ministry of Works has commenced scoping of the road.

He described the scoping as a major step toward addressing one of Udu’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.

He commended the proactive measures taken by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, under whose administration this project was initiated, and assured the people of Udu that improved conditions for road users are on the horizon.

The Udu council chairman stated further that his administration is committed to being open, inclusive, and focused on delivering tangible benefits to the area.

He expressed gratitude to the group for their visit and goodwill and emphasized the importance of unity in building a peaceful and prosperous future for Udu.

Earlier, Chief Ese Arigo, the National Chairman of the Urhobo Ex-Agitators and Senior Special Assistant on Security to the Delta State Governor, thanked Olorogun Oyibode for the warm reception.

He explained that the visit was part of a familiarization tour across Urhobo-speaking local government areas aimed at strengthening ties with local councils.

Chief Arigo noted that the Ex-Agitators group comprises former militants who have embraced peace and are now making meaningful contributions to society.

Many members are actively serving in various capacities within the Delta State Government, including roles as Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants.

He pledged the group’s unwavering loyalty to Oyibode’s leadership and requested additional support in empowerment initiatives to sustain their reformed journey.

Over 730 Persons Convicted of Terrorism-Related Offenses — FG

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By Sunday Apah

The Federal Government has announced that more than 730 people have been convicted for crimes related to terrorism as part of its intensified campaign against the financing of terrorism and the dismantling of illicit financial networks.

Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), made this declaration during an on-site meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) held on Monday in Abuja.

He noted that over 90 of these convictions were achieved with direct assistance from the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), highlighting the success of inter-agency collaboration in identifying and disrupting financial channels that support terrorist organizations.

“Disrupting the financial lifelines of terrorist organizations is a critical aspect of our national counterterrorism strategy,” he stated. “We are firmly dedicated to this mission and highly value our ongoing collaboration with both local and international partners, including the U.S. Department of Treasury. Our ability to prosecute over 730 terrorism-related cases demonstrates the success of our coordinated national approach. More than 90 convictions were made possible with the assistance of the NFIU.”

He also acknowledged the effective teamwork between the NFIU and other relevant agencies, which has significantly decreased the influx of illegal funds into terrorist operations nationwide.

The NCTC coordinator further praised the Joint Standard Investigation Committee on Terrorism Financing, describing its efforts as crucial for improving Nigeria’s capacity to investigate and prosecute complex financial crimes.

According to Laka, the simulation exercise was intended to assess Nigeria’s institutional readiness and align strategies in preparation for the forthcoming FATF evaluation, which will decide Nigeria’s status regarding the organization’s Grey List.

“The strength of our collective preparation will determine the outcome of the upcoming FATF visit and, ultimately, Nigeria’s removal from the FATF Grey List,” he remarked.

In her comments, Hajiya Hafsat Bakari, Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, noted significant progress in fulfilling all 19 action items outlined in their action plans through unified national efforts.

Bakari stated that the on-site exercise served as an opportunity to showcase the advancements made and the continuous commitment to establishing an effective national framework in line with FATF standards.

She emphasized the global attention on Nigeria from the FATF network and the high expectations that accompany this scrutiny.

“The importance of this assessment is highlighted by the size of the team coming to Nigeria. We will be hosting 11 reviewers who will evaluate all the immediate outcomes in our action plan. Given the challenges the FATF has faced in securing reviewers for several African nations, this is indeed a strong indicator of confidence in Nigeria.”

Additionally, she expressed her satisfaction in announcing that the FATF has extended an invitation for Nigeria to become a guest member.

“This means Nigeria will participate under its own flag in discussions and projects of the FATF. While this does not equate to full membership, it is nevertheless a significant step on our journey to gaining a place at the table and reaffirms that we are on the right path,” she concluded.

Retired Police Officers Demonstrate in the Rain at National Assembly Entrance

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By Sunday Apah

On Monday, a group of retired police officers held a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja, braving the rain to voice their grievances.

The protesters are calling for their release from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they claim is detrimental to their wellbeing.

Comprising mainly older ex-police personnel, the group displayed placards and sang solidarity songs while enduring the wet weather, emphasizing that their welfare and dignity have been overlooked for far too long.

During the demonstration, retired Chief Superintendent of Police Manir Lawal urged the government to withdraw police retirees from the pension scheme, labeling it exploitative and unfair.

“We are gathered here to demand that the government remove us from the CPS. This pension scheme has been both exploitative and unjust,” he stated. “At 67 years old, I, along with many others who are in their 60s and 70s, have served this nation loyally and believe we deserve to retire with dignity. This scheme has left us in poverty. It is our right to advocate for better conditions.”

Despite the inclement weather, the retirees remained resolute, declaring they would not disperse until their concerns were heard by the leaders of the National Assembly.

Security personnel were present to monitor the situation and ensure no disruptions occurred.

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