By Sunday Apah

A High Court in Plateau State has ruled that elected Local Government Chairmen in the state are entitled to a four-year term in office.

The court determined that the two-year tenure stipulated by the Plateau State Local Government Law and the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Law conflicts with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The judgment was delivered by the Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Gwong Mann, in response to a suit filed by the Chairman of Wase Local Government Area, Hamisu Anani.

The suit sought judicial clarification on the constitutional and statutory provisions regulating the tenure of elected local government officials.

Anani had initiated the case through an originating summons against the Attorney General of Plateau State, requesting the court to decide whether the two-year term under state law conforms to constitutional guarantees for a democratically elected local government system.

Commenting on the ruling, the Plateau State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Philemon Dafi, stated that the court upheld the claimant’s requests after thorough consideration of the constitutional issues presented.

“The Chairman of Wase Local Government, Hon. Hamisu Anani, filed an originating summons against the Attorney General, seeking interpretation of the Constitution, the Plateau State Local Government Law, and the PLASIEC Law,” Dafi explained.

“He posed four key questions regarding the tenure of local government chairmen in Plateau State, particularly for Wase Local Government.

“The court, after hearing his arguments, granted the reliefs and declared that, effective immediately, the tenure for all local government chairmen in the state shall be four years, consistent with Nigeria’s constitutional democratic framework.”

The court concluded that the two-year tenure weakened the constitutional structure for democratic governance at the local level and could not supersede the provisions of the Constitution.

In response to the judgment, the claimant’s counsel, Madueke Okafor, praised it as a robust constitutional interpretation and a triumph for grassroots democracy.

“We are satisfied with this outcome. It reflects a sound interpretation of the Constitution, and we are confident that, following this ruling, the tenure for local government chairmen and councillors in Plateau State is now firmly established as four years,” Okafor stated.

He further noted that the decision imposes greater accountability on elected officials to demonstrate their worth through dedicated service to their communities during the extended term.

Source: Channels TV

“The responsibility now rests on them to utilize this period effectively in serving the people,” he added.

By Sunday Apah

Delta State’s Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has applauded Emo Rock Concepts Limited for its commitment to quality and schedule adherence in the ongoing Emevor–Orogun Road Phase II project.

During a site visit on Wednesday, Aniagwu inspected the 4.8-kilometer road in Isoko North Local Government Area and the progressing Amai–Aragba Road in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

He emphasized that the state administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expects all contractors to deliver durable, cost-effective infrastructure that offers lasting benefits to residents.

The commissioner highlighted that the project’s advancement validates the state’s policy of engaging local contractors for major infrastructure works.

He noted that Emo Rock Concepts Limited performs at a level comparable to international construction firms.

“This project reaffirms our choice to employ indigenous contractors. Emo Rock Concepts Limited is delivering work that matches global standards,” Aniagwu stated.

He recalled that the company had successfully completed the first phase of the road, which remains in excellent condition, leading to the award of the second phase.

The engineering design was specifically tailored to address the area’s swampy conditions, incorporating retaining walls and elevating the road more than two meters above ground level to prevent flooding.

Aniagwu pointed out that rigorous compaction and strict compliance with technical specifications demonstrate the contractor’s expertise.

He reiterated the state’s expectation that all projects be built to endure and provide full value to the people of Delta.

Governor Oborevwori prioritizes both quality and timelines, and the commissioner confirmed that the contractor is meeting these expectations. Although the project began in July 2024 with a 24-month completion window, the current pace suggests it could be finished within the coming months.

Most sections have reached the binder course stage, with only about 300 meters near culverts awaiting adjustment. Once the wearing course begins, the remaining work is expected to take two to three weeks, potentially allowing completion by late April.

Aniagwu also praised the contractor’s attention to detail in finishing shoulders and drainage culverts, encouraging other firms in the state to follow this example.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building reliable road networks that improve connectivity and support socio-economic growth across Delta.

Emo Rock Concepts Limited’s Project Director, Engr. Oghale Agelebe, restated the company’s dedication to finishing the project by April 2026 while maintaining high standards and satisfying the government, local communities, and road users.

Community youth representatives, including Comrade Obukowho Usie and Comrade Emmanuel Itegbru, thanked the state government for the road project, describing it as a transformative development that will enhance transportation and stimulate the local economy.

They pledged ongoing community support for the state’s initiatives.

By Sunday Apah 

The Chairman of the Community Management Committee of Ifie-Kporo Community in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, Dr. Monday Agbeyi, has congratulated Chief Solomon Arenyeka on his emergence as the newly elected Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.

Agbeyi, in a statement issued over the weekend in Warri, described the emergence of Arenyeka as a well-deserved development and one of the best decisions taken by the leadership and members of the party in the state.

He said the choice of Arenyeka would further strengthen the party and strategically position it for success ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, Arenyeka is a square peg in a square hole and one of the most suitable political figures to lead the party at this critical time, given his wealth of grassroots political experience and commitment to the growth of the APC in Delta State.

Agbeyi described the new APC chairman as a charismatic, people-oriented and intelligent political leader with the required experience and leadership capacity to effectively pilot the affairs of the party in the state.

He expressed optimism that with Arenyeka at the helm of affairs, the APC in Delta State would witness renewed unity, strength and political advancement capable of delivering electoral victories for the party in 2027 and beyond.

Agbeyi further commended other newly elected state officers and party members for the peaceful and successful conduct of the state congress.

He urged party leaders and stakeholders to set aside personal interests and differences and work together in unity for the overall progress of the party.

The community leader also called on members of the party across the state to give the new leadership under Chief Solomon Arenyeka the needed support and cooperation to enable it reposition the APC for greater political achievements in Delta State.

…Inaugurates Road Networks in Oko, Asaba

…Approves N16.9 Billion for Second Phase of Oko Road Project

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, stated on Friday that the state has solidified its status as a formidable stronghold for his party, attributing this to the widespread developmental projects initiated by his administration.

The governor made these remarks during the official opening of the 4.8-kilometer Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road in Oko Kingdom, alongside other interconnected roads in Asaba, located within the Oshimili South Local Government Area.

Addressing attendees at the event, Governor Oborevwori expressed that the significant infrastructure progress achieved under his leadership has bolstered public trust and cemented the state’s political direction for future elections.

He remarked, “During the 2023 gubernatorial election, I secured victory in 21 out of 25 local government areas before even assuming office. Given the scale of development and completed projects within nearly three years, Delta State now stands as an entrenched base for our party.”

The governor emphasized his administration’s dedication to executing projects that yield tangible benefits for residents, noting that the newly commissioned roads are pivotal for stimulating economic growth and enhancing inter-community connectivity.

Oborevwori highlighted that the Oko road project would greatly assist local farmers by facilitating smoother transport of agricultural goods to market, thereby boosting incomes and supporting rural economies.

He recounted the previous challenges faced by the community, where difficult terrain, particularly during rainy seasons, severely hampered farmers’ ability to market their produce, often forcing them to sell at low prices in neighboring Anambra State.

“With the completion of this road, farmers can now efficiently transport fresh produce to markets, which will elevate their earnings and quality of life,” the governor stated.

Due to the road’s strategic value, the state government has sanctioned a second phase of the project, valued at ₦16.9 billion and awarded to Setraco Nigeria Limited, with a 24-month completion timeline. Oborevwori added his expectation that the contractor may finish ahead of schedule.

The governor also underscored the importance of the newly built Amaechi Agusi and adjoining roads in Asaba, which address prior issues of severe erosion and flooding that rendered the routes nearly unusable. The improved infrastructure and drainage are set to enhance transit, bolster local commerce, and mitigate flooding.

Oborevwori noted that Delta State is experiencing a season of project completions, with numerous developments finalized or underway across the region. He cited recent inaugurations such as the Government Technical College in Omadino and new faculty buildings at the University of Delta, Agbor, and the Southern Delta University in Ozoro, with more projects slated for commissioning soon.

“Our administration is focused on concrete achievements, not mere promises. Governance is demonstrated through performance, and the evidence of our work is visible throughout Delta State,” he asserted.

The governor further assured that additional youth and women empowerment initiatives would be launched under his administration’s MORE Agenda, reiterating that peace and stability are fundamental to ongoing development.

He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the federal economic reforms implemented in 2023, which he noted have enhanced states’ financial capabilities to undertake developmental projects.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, explained that the new Oko road was constructed above the recorded flood level of 2012 to ensure durability and prevent future disruptions. He mentioned that community residents have welcomed the project warmly and pledged their ongoing support.

Chief Patrick Ukah, Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, reported that over 70 kilometers of roads have been completed or are ongoing within the capital territory, including approximately 50 kilometers handled directly by his agency, along with more than 20 kilometers of drainage works. He also announced that the long-planned Asagba Road project in Asaba has received gubernatorial approval and will begin shortly.

In his address, the Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili, commended the governor for his unwavering focus on infrastructure, describing the new roads as transformative developments that will foster economic expansion and improve living standards.

Representing the host communities, Chief Patrick Ndili, Palace Secretary to the Asagba of Asaba, and HRH Osita I, the Akor of Oko Kingdom, extended their gratitude to the governor for the project, characterizing it as a much-anticipated development that will unlock greater growth for the area. They assured continued support for Governor Oborevwori’s administration and for the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

By Sunday Apah

The Delta Political Forum (DPF) has extended its congratulations to Chief Solomon Arenyeka JP, following his emergence as the new Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.

In a formal statement released on Thursday, the group expressed strong confidence that his leadership will steer the party to success in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

The statement, jointly signed by the Forum’s State Coordinator, Olorogun Solomon Obareki, and its Publicity Secretary, Olorogun Sunday Apah, described Arenyeka’s ascension as a positive and strategic development for the party’s future in the state.

The DPF emphasized that his experience and political acumen position him as the right figure to unify the party and strengthen its grassroots appeal ahead of the crucial electoral contest.

Beyond the chairman, the Forum also congratulated all newly elected members of the APC State Executive Committee.

The DPF noted that the composition of the executive reflects a broad-based and capable team ready to undertake the party’s rebuilding and mobilization efforts across Delta State.

The group praised the state Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for fostering a peaceful and conducive political environment.

The DPF attributed the successful and uncontested emergence of what it termed a “virile executive” to the governor’s commitment to stability and non-interference in the party’s internal democratic processes.

Looking ahead, the Delta Political Forum issued a rallying call to all APC members and supporters throughout the state. It urged unity and collective support for the newly inaugurated executives to ensure a smooth, productive, and uninterrupted tenure.

The Forum stressed that such internal cohesion is paramount for the party to effectively strategize, consolidate its gains, and mount a formidable challenge in the next election cycle.

The group pointed out that with the new leadership in place and full party backing, the APC in Delta State is now on a definitive path to reclaiming electoral victory in 2027.