Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to distinguished businessman and Chairman of Skyward Resources Group, High Chief Eta Enahoro, in honor of his 62nd birthday.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, from Asaba on Sunday, Governor Oborevwori praised Enahoro, who hails from Oyede-Isoko, as a committed entrepreneur and astute industrialist known for his significant philanthropic contributions.
He highlighted Enahoro’s impact on many lives through his generosity.
The governor acknowledged Enahoro, who holds the title of Iyasere of Oyede Kingdom, for his steadfast support and selfless investment in both the Isoko community and broader society.
Governor Oborevwori remarked, “On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Delta State, I want to congratulate you, my dear brother and friend, High Chief Eta Enahoro, on this momentous occasion of your 62nd birthday.
“Your entrepreneurial ventures and commitment to humanitarian efforts have not only created numerous job opportunities but also provided many in our community with a means to achieve a better quality of life. For this, we are profoundly grateful.
“As you celebrate this significant milestone, my sincere wish is that God continues to guide, protect, and strengthen you, granting you many more years of success and fulfillment.”
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has dismissed claims made by the commissioner representing Delta on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, that the Delta State Government is neglecting the construction of federal roads in the state for the NDDC.
The governor characterized these statements as fallacious misrepresentations.
Governor Oborevwori made these remarks during the inauguration of the reconstructed 9.6 km Abraka-Oben Road and the flag-off of the reconstruction of failed sections of the Abraka-Agbor Road (Phase 1) in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
He reiterated the state government’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government for the overall socio-economic development of the state.
Represented by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the Delta State Government’s demonstrable commitment to addressing federal road issues within the state.
He reflected on the condition of the Benin-Warri Road prior to state intervention.
“I recall that Mr. Speaker, in his previous capacity, approved funds for the rehabilitation of the Benin-Sapele Road by the Delta State Government.
“While he was Speaker, the Delta State Government recognized the urgency to intervene on the Benin-Warri highway, especially from Amukpe to Effurun.
“It was critical at that time, as vehicles were taking days to travel from Benin to Warri,” he said.
Oborevwori noted, “The government rehabilitated that road during his tenure. Therefore, suggesting that the Delta State Government is abandoning everything for the NDDC is a gross misrepresentation that I must correct here and now.”
He added, “Let me remind you that the bridges being constructed in the Warri area are part of a Federal Trunk A road, and the state government is intervening to reduce travel time.
“The Ughelli-Asaba dualization project spans about 180 km. I encourage you to drive from Ughelli to Asaba and witness the remarkable interventions made by the Delta State Government on this federal highway.
“We have intervened several times on the road you are here to flag off today.”
Governor Oborevwori’s accomplishments have been recognized by major media outlets, including THISDAY/ARISE News and New Telegraph Newspaper, which named him Governor of the Year (Infrastructure).
The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with the federal government led by President Bola Tinubu to transform the state.
He expressed his belief that the success of the Federal Government directly contributes to the success of state governments.
He commended the NDDC for initiating the reconstruction of the crucial access road from Abraka to Oben and urged for the road’s completion to Benin.
“I appreciate the NDDC board for their vision and for understanding the challenges at hand, as well as for providing the policy guidelines for this important project,” he said.
“I am pleased that the NDDC is focusing on addressing failed sections of roads throughout the region.
“The Delta State Government firmly believes in our partnership with the federal government under President Bola Tinubu.
“We understand that the success of the Federal Government will naturally lead to the state’s success as well.”
Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support of the NDDC board and urged him to continue to prioritize the needs of the Niger Delta community.
“I am unsure if the NDDC mobilizes contractors, but in Delta State, we ensure that our contractors are mobilized up to 40 percent to mitigate the impact of inflation on them. I also thank Mr. President for appointing capable individuals to manage our ministries, departments, and agencies for the benefit of Nigerians.”
Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, commended the NDDC for adhering to President Tinubu’s directive to reconstruct section one of the road from Abraka to Oben.
He praised Governor Oborevwori for his proactive measures concerning federal roads in the state and encouraged governors nationwide to view intervention agencies as partners in progress rather than rivals.
Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, lauded the executive management for implementing the board’s directives, stating, “We are pleased that work has commenced along the Abraka-Agbor Road and at the Uromi junction in Agbor.”
Managing Director of the NDDC, Chief Sam Ogbuku, affirmed that the NDDC is working diligently under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership to enhance infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
“Before the reconstruction of this road, we intervened in certain areas of the East-West Road to prevent undue hardship for residents,” he remarked.
He also recognized the contributions of state governments to the development of the Niger Delta, clarifying that the NDDC serves as an interventionist agency aimed at complementing the efforts of state governments.
The late Hon. Chief Omejevwe Mevayero Duku, a former councilor of Ughelli South Local Government Area legislative arm, has been laid to rest in his hometown of Effurun-Otor, amidst tears from family, friends, and well-wishers.
The burial ceremony, which took place following Hon. Chief Duku’s passing on January 4, 2025, was attended by prominent politicians and chiefs from the Effurun-Otor kingdom, along with his family and friends.
During the service, Pastor Willie Igben of the Word of Life Bible Church delivered a sermon titled “Adam, Where Are Thou?” referencing scriptures from 1 Peter 1:24-25 and Job 14:1.
He emphasized the transient nature of human life, stating that “man is born of a woman for a few days and full of troubles.”
Pastor Igben encouraged the congregation to reflect on the brevity and unpredictability of life. He remarked, “People often focus solely on accumulating wealth, losing sight of life’s true essence.”
The pastor urged attendees to confess their sins and commit their lives to Christ for spiritual liberation.
Hon. Chief Omejevwe Mevayero Duku was born into the Duku Royal family on March 2, 1972, to the late Chief James Mevayero Duku and Chief Mrs. Cecilia Duku in Effurun-Otor Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria.
As the son of a teacher and businessman, he began his education at an early age, attending Oharisi Primary School from 1977 to 1982, where he graduated with distinction. That same year, he gained admission to Unity School Agbarho.
Tragically, in 1984, while in Form 2, he lost his father and could not continue at the boarding school due to financial constraints.
MHe completed his secondary education at Ovwor Mixed Secondary School in Ughelli South Local Government Area.
After leaving school, he held various jobs, including assistant welder in Manila Offshore Forcados and a horticultural worker at Shell Warri, before joining the Nigerian Police (Shell Division). In pursuit of higher education, he later enrolled in the prestigious University of Benin, Edo State, to study computer engineering.
Following his graduation, Hon. Chief Duku ventured into politics, joining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He successfully contested for the position of Councillor representing Effurun-Otor/Ovwor Ward, serving from June 2008 to June 2011. Although he aspired to become the council chairman, he ultimately stepped aside after consultations within the party.
Hon. Chief Omejevwe Duku was a devoted family man who consistently strived to provide for his loved ones. He was a committed member of the World of Life Bible Church in Warri.
As an active and outspoken member of the Duku Royal family, he participated in family meetings and contributed valuable insights to enhance family values.
He was a respected chief in the Effurun-Otor Kingdom—an individual known for his fashion sense, warm smile, and carefree attitude towards life’s troubles.
A reliable friend and brother, Hon. Chief Duku was always willing to help those in need. He lived life to the fullest and showed no signs of distress on the day of his untimely passing.
On January 4, 2025, he was driving to get a haircut when, unexpectedly, death took him away, leaving behind a legacy of love and service.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, visited the Clark family on Friday to express his condolences following the passing of their patriarch, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
He described the late Chief Clark as a true patriot characterized by unwavering integrity.
During his visit to the family’s home in Kiagbodo, the Governor honored the memory of the esteemed elder statesman, highlighting his significant contributions to the nation and the fulfillment of a life well-lived.
Governor Oborevwori noted that Chief E.K. Clark, as he was widely known, was deeply dedicated to the advancement of the Niger Delta region and played a vital role in the country’s development. “He has left an indelible mark on our history,” the Governor stated.
Accompanied by Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, and other distinguished officials, the Governor emphasized the late statesman’s remarkable qualities of boldness, courage, focus, and articulation.
“As I look around at the faces gathered here, it is clear that we are celebrating a great father who has recently departed,” he remarked.
“It is with deep sorrow that I convey my heartfelt condolences to Pa E.K. Clark’s family, the people of Kiagbodo, the Ijaw nation, and all of the Niger Delta region,” he continued. “He truly was a well-respected figure in this country, having lived a life rich in accomplishment and integrity.”
Governor Oborevwori recognized Clark’s unique voice within the Niger Delta community, noting, “His vocal presence is unmatched. If you read his book, ‘Brutally Frank,’ you will understand the depth of his memory and insight. He was a man who could trace the lineage of many families in this region.”
Reflecting on their last conversation, the Governor shared, “Papa encouraged me in my role as Governor and assured me that he would offer honest feedback if needed. His straightforwardness was one of his defining traits, as was his unwavering focus and clarity of thought.”
The Governor assured the Clark family and the Ijaw community of the state government’s continued support during this mourning period. He also extended his sympathies to the residents of Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area, and the entire Ijaw community.
In response, Mrs. Rebecca Okorodudu, the eldest daughter of the late Chief Clark, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his visit and compassion. Joined by her uncle, Prof. Collins Clark, and various family members, she affirmed their commitment to supporting the initiatives and policies of his administration.
The police in Delta State have arrested Mr. Buhari Bala along with other suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, and cultists at various locations in the state.
In a press release on Friday, 21st February 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, stated that some of the suspected kidnappers who have been terrorizing the Abraka, Obiaruku, and Umutu areas were arrested on 30th January 2025 by operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson.
He explained in the statement that the team stormed the hideout on 2nd February 2025 and apprehended the fleeing gang leader, named Emeka (surname unknown), at approximately 16:35 hrs. This location was situated at Evwokenren Layout, off Ughelli Road, Agbarho, in Ughelli North LGA, Delta State.
“During the raid, a fabricated semi-automatic Beretta pistol with four rounds of live ammunition, four locally-made cut-to-size guns, thirteen rounds of live cartridges, and a pair of military uniforms concealed in a black polythene bag were recovered.”
Also, “on 19th February 2025 at about 16:00 hrs, operatives of Safer 025 from the Safer Highway Patrol, while on stop-and-search duty along the Benin/Agbor road, arrested three suspects in possession of three locally-made long guns and charms.”
“The suspects, namely Buhari Bala (28 years old), Habibu Sale (25 years old), Abdulwahab Musa (20 years old), and Taisu Bala (20 years old), all male, claimed they were coming from Zaria, Kaduna State, and were heading to a bush before Benin called Igbogri community for a hunting expedition.”
Furthermore, “on 17th January 2025, acting on a tip-off, the DPO of Agbarho Division, CSP Pius Eredei, mobilized and led operatives to the apartment of one Eriga Enyuche (40 years old). Upon searching his one-room apartment, one G-3 rifle and one pump-action gun were recovered, hidden in the ceiling of the room.”
The Delta State Government has demoted two engineers for falsely certifying road projects that were not yet completed.
The engineers involved, Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere and Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia, have seen their ranks reduced from Deputy Director to Assistant Director and from Assistant Director to Chief Engineer, respectively.
This decision comes as a result of a letter outlining the findings of a disciplinary committee, signed by William O. Ogolokpe on behalf of the Head of Service.
According to separate letters, it was stated: “Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere has been found guilty of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to follow proper procedures, resulting in your demotion from Deputy Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 16 to Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15, effective January 1, 2024.”
Similarly, “Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia has also been deemed guilty of corruption, dishonesty, and a failure to adhere to established protocols, leading to a reduction from Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15 to Chief Civil Engineer, SGL 14, effective January 1, 2024.”
The letters further indicated that future promotions for both engineers would be delayed, with new effective dates set for January 1, 2028, and January 1, 2027, respectively.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori previously emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward ensuring quality project delivery and accountability for public funds.
In a recent event in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori urged the disciplinary committee to consider mercy in their decisions, opting for rank reduction instead of outright dismissal. He cautioned that future infractions would be dealt with severely according to the law.
…As Executives, Members Promise to End APC Reign in the Federal Constituency
By Sunday Apah
In an effort to secure a decisive victory for the Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming 2027 elections, the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum has established various committees to organize its inauguration.
During a meeting held in Asaba, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, the Chairman of the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum, emphasized that the meeting was convened to strategize for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s bid for a second term in 2027.
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He highlighted that the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency is the largest in Delta Central senatorial district and have the highest number of kingdoms in Urhobo.
Despite the substantial voter base, Oguma acknowledged that the party had not performed well in the 2023 elections.
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However, he expressed optimism that the outcome would be different in 2027 due to the increased unity and focus among party members.
He urged those in attendance to remain united and inclusive, stressing that the forum is intended for all party members within the federal constituency.
Oguma reassured the three Local Government Area PDP Chairmen present that the forum’s intention was not to supplant their roles, but rather to assist them in achieving victory for the PDP in 2027.
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Olorogun Eddie Ono-Sorhue, Deputy Chairman of the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency Forum; Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Senior Political Adviser to the Governor; Chief Terry Noah, former Commissioner for Lands and Survey; and Chief Fred Majemite, also a former Commissioner for Lands and Survey, collectively affirmed that the group was formed to bolster the party’s ambitions in 2027.
They acknowledged that, until now, they had not successfully united under one forum with the goal of securing all contestable positions.
“With the backing of the PDP Chairmen in the federal constituency and regular meetings of the forum, we are confident that we will achieve remarkable success,” the leaders stated.
The inauguration organizing committee is led by the three Local Government Area Chairmen: Hon. Jaro Egbo (Ughelli North), Hon. Lucky Avweromre (Ughelli South), and Hon. Vincent Oyibode (Udu).
They were supported by prominent politicians, divided into sub-committees for effective planning and execution.
Those who attended the meeting included Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, Secretary of the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency Forum; Olorogun Festus Ahon, Chief Press Secretary; Hon. Solomon Ahwinahwi; Hon. Samuel Mariere; Kelly Oghenekevwe; Comrade Lucky Ofomukoro; Mr. Ojays Ojigho; Rt. David Siloko; Hon. Peter Uviejitobor; Hon. Onoriode Agofure; Hon. George Oyefia; Chief Henry Sakpra; Chief Moses Odibo; Chief Andrew Orugbo; Hon. Jite Brown; Engr. Chief Christabel Obiuwevbi; Hon. Paul Etaga; Mr. Simon Umudi; Mr. Sunday Kotor; Chief Matthew Kwode; Rt. Hon. Sunday Apah; Prince Bourne Ohwovoriole; Chief Francis Aguonigho; Chief John Ewenede; Chief Emmanuel Ejenake; Chief Ovis Uto; Prince Evuetapha; Olorogun Grace Aghoghovbia; and Very Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo.
Others included Rt. Hon. Karo Goru; Mr. Sylvester Ovbije; Hon. Matthew Oguma; Sir Sunday Mrakpor; Mr. Sylvester Uzoh; Abraham Erhuen, Esq.; Chief A. Kpuwhara; Engr. Agberia Ogheneochuko; Chief Michael Oshetigho; Raymond Edijala; Chief Obruche Oghenejiru; Hon. Eki Afuevure; Chief Richard Kofi; Chief Godwin Adode; Chief Johnbull Asun; Chief Sam Ughujowhovwo; Chief Mrs. Vivian Ogheneovo; Hon. Peter Ogbavweni; Hon. David Henry; Chief Ochuko Imirhe; Engr. Nelson Odien; Comrade William Emuophe; Chief Otto Ogbiruveta; Comrade Vincent Omoko; Chief Tony Ikomoni; Chadu Ojevwe Charles; Robinson Ighorodje; Chief G. Ushere; Jimmy Idiobwa; Michael Akpobasa; and Dr. Peter O.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has sent his condolences to the Ijaw nation on the passing of elder statesman Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as the “End of a Great Era.”
Oborevwori described Pa Clark, who was reported to have died on Monday night at the age of 97, as a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervor.
In a condolence message to the family and the Ijaw nation, Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Pa Clark’s life and times as truly well spent in the service of the nation.
He eulogized the late elder statesman for his unwavering and unprecedented dedication to the growth and unity of the nation, especially in the South-South region.
Oborevwori said, “Today, I mourn the passing of an elder statesman, Nigerian patriot, and role model, Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, OON, an icon whose influence traversed Nigeria’s political scene for six decades.
“Teacher, educator, public servant, and politician, Chief Clark was a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervor.
“To the people of the Niger Delta region, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity, and justice for the region.
“His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State on the passing of Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Ijaw nation over this monumental loss. We can all take solace in the saying that Chief Clark came, he saw, and he conquered.
“Pa Clark, an astute lawyer, administrator, patriot, and freedom fighter, was a prominent player in Nigerian politics and a tenacious supporter of the rights of Niger Deltans.”
His passing, which comes just a few days after the death of Afenifere leader Pa Ayo Adebanjo, truly marks the end of a great era.
High Chief Promise Lawuru, the leader of the Southern Youth Movement (SYM), has expressed deep condolences over the passing of Pa. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as the loss of a significant institution.
In a statement personally signed by him and shared with journalists, Chief Lawuru noted that Pa. Clark’s departure is an irreplaceable loss not only for the Ijaw nation but for Nigeria as a whole.
He characterized Pa. Clark as a formidable and courageous figure, always at the forefront of the struggle for the rights and emancipation of the Niger Delta people and the nation at large.
“Pa. Clark’s death is an immeasurable loss to our great nation, particularly to the Ijaw people,” he stated.
“Pa. Clark was more than just a person; he embodied an institution dedicated to nation-building. While death is an inevitable part of life, we can find comfort in our faith and pray for God’s infinite mercy as he transitions to the eternal beyond. Farewell to the Iroko tree.”
Edwin Clark, the esteemed leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has passed away at the age of 97. His demise was confirmed in a statement released by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday.
The announcement read: “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, regrets to inform the public about the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025.”
The family expressed gratitude for the prayers and support they have received during this difficult time and mentioned that further details would be shared later.
