The police have arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered a pistol, a locally made gun, live ammunition, and cartridges in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement issued on Friday, 17 April 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, stated that the kidnapping incident occurred on 1 February 2026 at about 2000hrs along the Warri–Sapele Road by Adeje Community.
According to the statement, “The incident was reported on 4 February 2026 at about 1700hrs, following the abduction of a group of travellers who were ambushed by armed hoodlums.
“The assailants, armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, forcefully took the victims into the bush.
“Two of the victims managed to escape and promptly raised the alarm, triggering a coordinated response involving the Police, the Nigerian Army, and local vigilantes.
“Sustained pressure from the joint security team forced the kidnappers to abandon the remaining victims, who were subsequently rescued unhurt.
“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, operatives of the Orerokpe Division arrested one Dafiaga Timothy (male) on the same day, 4 February 2026, while attempting to withdraw money using one of the victim’s ATM cards at a POS point in Adeje Community.
“The DPO of Orerokpe Division was directed to transfer the case to the CP-Special Assignment Team for discreet and further investigation.
“Following sustained interrogation and technically generated intelligence, on 31 March 2026 at about 1600hrs, operatives arrested additional members of the syndicate, including Samuel Omonigho (male), 31, in Kokori Community, Ethiope East Local Government Area, and Henry Christmas (male), 22, in Adeje Community, Okpe Local Government Area.
“A further breakthrough was recorded on 5 April 2026 at about 1445hrs, when operatives arrested two more members of the syndicate, namely Ovo Wilson Junior (male), also known as ‘Sheboy’, 24, in Mereje Community, Okpe Local Government Area, and Emakpo Ubiaro Abel (male), 36, in Ughwagba Community, Okpe Local Government Area.
“Investigation revealed that Emakpo Ubiaro Abel is a tricycle rider who conveys the gang members to and from their operational locations.
“Furthermore, on 13 April 2026 at about 0535hrs, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team, acting on information obtained during interrogation, carried out a follow-up operation at a hideout located at Oka Junction, Agbarho.
“A thorough search led to the recovery of one fabricated Beretta pistol loaded with three rounds of live ammunition and one locally made gun with seven live cartridges.
“The syndicate has been linked to a series of kidnapping and armed robbery incidents across Warri, Sapele, Agbarho, Ughelli, and adjoining areas.
“The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, commended the synergy between security agencies and the vigilance of community members, which contributed to the success of the operations,” the statement added.
The recent diatribe by one Mr. Fejiro Oliver against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, (TSSNL), represents more than mere criticism—it is a deliberate campaign of calumny, engineered to undermine a proven defender of Nigeria’s economic lifeline.
This rejoinder dismantles Oliver’s unfortunate baseless allegations and exposes his ill-motives, while reaffirming Tantita’s exemplary record in safeguarding our nation’s oil and gas infrastructure.
Ordinarily, one would have decided to ignore his unfortunate campaign of calumny against Tantita Limited, but that would amount to being silent in the face of deliberate falsehood targeted against the developmental potentials of the region.
Any discerning mind would readily agree that Fejiro Oliver’s persistent attacks on Tantita are not rooted in facts but in a well-funded agenda to discredit a company that has single-handedly reversed the tide of oil theft in the Niger Delta.
Today, the current government is enjoying relative economic stability because of the peace that has guaranteed robust and unimpeded oil/gas operations in the region.
Oliver’s narratives are carefully and wickedly concocted, designed to mislead the public and erode trust in a rare Nigerian success story.
Oliver’s claims of “extravagant spending” and demands to “share the pipeline security contract” are not only false but dangerously divisive.
Their wicked narratives ignore the stark reality: before Tantita’s involvement, Nigeria bled billions annually from brazen theft, with multiple layers of failed security arrangements.
Tantita’s singular, focused mandate—backed by technology, intelligence, and community partnership—has achieved what fragmented, politically inflated contracts never could. Tantita represents a pragmatic local solution to a long-standing security crisis in the Niger Delta.
Moreover, it must be stated plainly: Fejiro Oliver’s mission is not independent journalism. It is a crass, sponsored crusade, bankrolled by his bandwagon of evil financiers—fifth columnists within and outside the Niger Delta—who thrive when Nigeria’s resources are unprotected and vulnerable. At best, his postulations fuel ethnic tensions with a potential to undermine security gains in the region.
These shadowy interests see Tantita’s effectiveness as an obstacle to their illicit gains. Oliver’s pen, it appears, is for hire to these enemies of national progress.
Oliver’s allegations of underperformance collapse under the weight of empirical evidence. Since Tantita assumed its mandate, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism have plummeted.
Characteristically, Oliver’s allegations contradicts regulatory findings as well as lacks documentary proof.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has publicly attested to dramatic increases in crude oil production—a direct result of Tantita’s vigilant, technology-driven operations.
Their model combines: Human Intelligence (HUMINT): Turning host communities into partners, not adversaries. Advanced Surveillance: Using drones, satellites, and real-time monitoring to secure vast terrains.
Rapid Response: Preventing theft proactively, not merely documenting losses.
To deny this transformative impact is to side with the saboteurs who once operated with impunity in the Niger Delta region.
Oliver’s insinuations that Tantita neglects its personnel are not just false—they are malicious fiction. Tantita’s operatives are paid promptly and regularly, a practice that boosts morale, loyalty, and effectiveness.
The company invests in continuous training, state-of-the-art equipment, and holistic welfare, recognizing that a secure, valued workforce is essential to mission success.
Where rare allegations of non-payment arise, they often trace back to undisciplined individuals removed for violating strict ethical codes—a testament to Tantita’s zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.
Tantita executes its duties strictly within the framework of its contract with NNPCL, under the oversight of government security agencies—the Nigerian Navy, Army, and NSCDC.
The company’s role as a force multiplier has enhanced inter-agency collaboration, not undermined it. As for the contract’s value, it pales in comparison to the trillions previously lost to theft.
Tantita’s fee is a strategic investment, yielding exponential returns for the nation in recovered and protected crude.
Fejiro Oliver is hereby warned to desist from his campaign of calumny. His relentless, unfounded attacks serve only the interests of evil economic saboteurs and their financiers.
The public is urged to see through his antics—to recognize that his narratives are engineered to destabilize the oil-rich region, and distort access to accurate information on contextual issues in the area.
Tantita Security Services has proven itself as a steadfast partner in Nigeria’s fight against economic sabotage. It is a model of Nigerian excellence, integrity, and effectiveness.
Rather than entertain baseless criticisms from shadowy characters like Fejiro Oliver, we should support, strengthen, and replicate its success.
The nation’s security and prosperity depend on the economic contributions of the region and we must not allow greedy characters like Fejiro derail the developmental aspirations of the people in the region.
Tantita has helped halt oil theft and restore critical national revenue, succeeding where conventional security faltered due to lack of community support and buy-in.
More importantly, it has stabilized the Niger Delta by creating jobs and proving that empowering local communities is essential to Nigeria’s survival.
Beyond the empirically verifiable numbers, it has also demonstrated that empowering host communities is not just strategic, but indispensable to Nigeria’s economic survival.
In closing, we would like to empathically assure Fejiro and his financiers that history will remember Tantita’s genuine contributions to peace and development in the region, no matter how loudly evil voices seeks to distort their legacy.
Mr. Christian Eni Cassidy, is a Niger Delta stakeholder based in the region
The newly inaugurated leadership of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Ughelli South Local Government Area has declared its mission to propagate the perceived benefits of the current federal and state administrations directly to the grassroots.
The Coordinator, Deacon Matthew Kwode, made the declaration during the group’s inaugural meeting in Otu-Jeremi on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Kwode stated that the ambassadors are now set to “preach the message of the gains of the renewed hope,” acting as representatives of President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
He conceded that “the times are hard because of the subsidy removal and other economic policies of Mr. President,” but insisted that “the gains are more.”
Central to their messaging, according to Kwode, is justifying the federal government’s contentious economic reforms.
He pinpointed the removal of the fuel subsidy as a “major bold step,” arguing that its proceeds have “boosted the economy of Nigeria.”
“Our message is to drive down the reform, showcasing the good works that Mr. President is doing and of course the good work of his Excellency the governor,” Kwode explained.
He linked these federal reforms to state-level projects, suggesting that initiatives like the gigantic projects across the state and others previously unattainable by local governments are now possible because of the reformed economic framework.
The core objective, Kwode stated, is to solicit public support by convincing Delta State residents that both the President and the Governor “met well for the good people.”
He emphasized the ambassadors’ role is to ensure the people understand this, despite immediate hardships.
“The renewed hope ambassadors are the representative of Mr. President and the governor taking the message down to the grassroots,” he said, framing the campaign as essential for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) “Renewed Hope for More” agenda.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt Easter greetings to Christians throughout Delta State and Nigeria, encouraging them to maintain steadfast faith and dedication to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori highlighted that Easter symbolizes hope, sacrifice, and renewal—a time that commemorates the victory of light over darkness and life over death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He urged Christians to embrace the virtues demonstrated by Jesus, such as love, humility, perseverance, and selflessness, emphasizing that these principles are vital for fostering unity, peace, and prosperity in society.
Governor Oborevwori stated, “This holy season reminds us of Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, His glorious resurrection, and the enduring hope it offers to all.
“As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, let us also reaffirm our dedication to building a state and nation grounded in peace, justice, and fraternity.”
He added, “May the joy and hope of Easter enrich your hearts and homes. Let us pray for sustained peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for our beloved state and our great nation, Nigeria.
“I encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly, treasure time with family and friends, and show compassion to those in need. Together, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”
The Governor also reassured residents of Delta State of his administration’s continued efforts to enhance living standards and improve the quality of life for every citizen.
The Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, His Majesty Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, has extended warm congratulations to the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, His Majesty Albert Akpomudje, SAN, FCIArb, Eyavwie-Alaka I, on his recent emergence as the 54th Chairman of the Nigerian Body of Benchers.
The congratulatory message was formally issued in a statement signed by three key representatives of the Ughievwen Kingdom: the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Akpogbemre Shaire; the Secretary of the Ughievwen Council of Chiefs, Olorogun John Okoro; and the Director of Media and Publicity for the Ughievwen Kingdom Palace, Olorogun Sunday Apah, the statement highlighted that His Majesty, the Ohworode of Olomu, is not only a revered traditional ruler but also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb).
His appointment as Chairman of the Body of Benchers—a pivotal legal body responsible for the call to the Bar and regulation of professional standards for lawyers in Nigeria—is seen as a testament to his exemplary career and leadership in the judiciary. This role places him at the helm of an institution critical to upholding legal integrity and ethics nationwide.
The Okobaro of Ughievwen, in his message, praised the Ohworode, noting he is also an indigene and a chief of Ughievwen Kingdom, for his dedication to justice, legal excellence, and service to both his kingdom and the nation.
He emphasized that such an appointment brings joy not only to the Olomu Kingdom but also to the entire Urhobo nation and the Niger Delta region, showcasing the potential for traditional institutions to contribute meaningfully to national development and governance.
We pray that the Almighty God grants His Majesty, the Ohworode, divine wisdom, strength, and discernment as he assumes this vital national role. May his tenure be marked by profound impact, reinforcing the pillars of justice and ethical practice within the Nigerian legal system for the benefit of our nation.
The Police have arrested three suspected fleeing members of the Vikings Confraternity over the murder of Mr. Alex Adanike in Agbarha-Otor, Delta State.
In a statement on Tuesday, 31st March 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer of Delta State, SP Bright Edafe, stated that on 20th January 2026, members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also known as Aro Bagger, had gruesomely shot and stabbed to death one Alex Adanike, a 31-year-old male from Agbarha-Otor Community, whom they mistook for his twin brother, Okpako Adanike.
He noted that extensive investigation into the matter had earlier led to the arrest of two suspects: Warri Ochuko and Lucky Okohwoake, who both confessed to the crime.
According to the statement, “in a related development, a recent raid on criminal hideouts in Ughelli and Warri areas of the state, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, led to the arrest of two additional suspects: Tega Micheal, a 26-year-old male of No. 22 Umutu Area, Ughelli, and Tena Sagbene, a 32-year-old male of No. 26 Oseri Street, Ughelli.
They were identified by the suspects in custody as part of the gang that jointly murdered the deceased on the said date.”
All suspects confessed to the crime and were today, 31st March 2026, arraigned before the Ughelli High Court and remanded in prison custody.
The police in Delta State have arrested 36 suspected internet fraudsters and armed robbers, and recovered a locally fabricated cut-to-size gun and two live cartridges in different locations in the state.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, on March 30th, 2026, it was stated that the breakthrough against the fraudsters came when operatives of the Quick Response Squad, led by SP Collins Arrey, raided a location in Opete on 28 March 2026. The location was suspected to be a hub for internet fraud activities.
According to the police spokesman, the operation was the result of information received from a distress caller, who reported that her younger brother had sent a distress message saying he was being held hostage and forced to engage in cybercrime (internet fraud).
“The operation exposed an organised network of young suspects operating from a residential apartment converted into a cybercrime base.
Thirty-four suspects were arrested on the spot. Items recovered include 37 laptops, 1 iPad, 7 mobile phones, and a calabash containing suspected charms, indicating the scale and organised nature of the operation.”
In another development, on 29 March 2026 at about 0900hrs, operatives of the Department of Operations, Delta State Police Command, while on patrol along Ogbolu/Illah Road, intercepted a tricycle conveying two occupants under suspicious circumstances.
On sighting the operatives, the tricycle rider feigned compliance, while one of the passengers suddenly alighted and fled into a nearby bush in a bid to evade arrest.
The suspect was immediately pursued. Upon being confronted, he attempted to resist arrest by attacking the operatives with a wooden object, but was subdued and arrested.
A search conducted on the tricycle led to the recovery of a locally fabricated cut-to-size gun loaded with two live cartridges, confirming criminal intent.
The suspect, later identified as Mustapha Musa (M), aged 32 years, from Kogi State, alongside the tricycle rider, Iyanosor Ogbizi (M), aged 34 years, were arrested and taken into custody.
Both suspects are in custody, and the recovered exhibits have been transferred for further investigation.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has refuted as entirely false a media report claiming to disclose the costs for expression of interest and nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A graphic widely shared on Friday alleged that presidential aspirants would be charged ₦200 million, while candidates for state assembly positions would pay ₦20 million.
In a statement released on Saturday, the ruling party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, clarified that the information did not originate from the APC.
“The All Progressives Congress (APC) has noted a deceptive and inaccurate report in certain media outlets concerning an alleged ‘price list’ for expression of interest and nomination forms for the 2027 General Elections.
“The APC unequivocally states that this report is FABRICATED and was not issued by the Party,” Morka declared.
He emphasized that no determination or announcement has been made regarding the sale or pricing of forms for the 2027 electoral cycle.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no decision or announcement has been made concerning the sale or pricing of forms for the 2027 elections,” he reiterated.
Morka dismissed the report as “nothing more than a product of the author’s mischievous imagination.”
The APC has called on its members, the media, and the general public to completely disregard the fraudulent publication.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed mobile network operators to provide restitution to customers experiencing service quality that fails to meet established regulatory benchmarks.
In a public notice released on Sunday, the Commission’s Head of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, stated that eligible subscribers will be credited with airtime.
The compensation amount will be determined by individual usage patterns and geographic location within local government areas where network performance has been deficient.
“Consumers should not shoulder the complete impact of service interruptions when operators do not fulfill their mandated service quality obligations,” the Commission affirmed.
It further clarified that the restitution initiative reflects its consumer-centric regulatory approach, designed to prioritize subscribers within the nation’s telecommunications landscape.
“Modern telecommunications services are foundational to economic operations, social connectivity, and digital inclusion. Inadequate service quality adversely impacts productivity, commerce, and public trust in the communications network,” the statement elaborated.
Also, the regulator has directed Tower Companies, which manage essential infrastructure like communication masts, to allocate penalty funds toward verifiable infrastructure enhancements aimed at boosting network reliability.
“The Commission remains committed to enforcing operator obligations for sustained investment in network durability, capacity growth, and infrastructure modernization to address escalating demand for telecom services,” it noted.
The NCC also emphasized its continued use of regulatory measures to advance equity, clarity, and responsibility, thereby safeguarding subscribers’ entitlement to satisfactory service quality.
“Pursuant to this directive, the Commission is also requiring Tower Companies to direct penalty revenues into infrastructure projects with tangible results, alongside any additional financial sanctions deemed necessary,” the announcement concluded.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in commemoration of his 74th birthday.
In his message, the Governor praised the President’s decisive leadership and the impactful economic reforms initiated under his administration.
The Governor’s felicitations were conveyed in an official statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon.
Governor Oborevwori highlighted the courage demonstrated by President Tinubu in implementing foundational fiscal policies, acknowledging their significant role in reshaping the national economic framework.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the entire people of Delta State, I extend my sincere congratulations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on this celebratory milestone of his 74th birthday,” Governor Oborevwori stated.
He emphasized that the federal reforms have substantially enhanced the revenue profiles of state and local governments across the federation. This financial empowerment, he noted, has enabled subnational administrations to accelerate essential infrastructure development and improve public service delivery within their jurisdictions.
“The bold and pragmatic economic reforms championed by your administration have successfully restructured our national fiscal landscape. More importantly, they have equipped states and local governments with greater resources to foster meaningful development and deliver tangible democratic benefits to citizens,” the Governor added.
Governor Oborevwori characterized President Tinubu as a leader with clear vision, whose dedication to revitalizing Nigeria’s economy is already producing measurable outcomes. He expressed confidence that the current fiscal and economic strategies are establishing a robust foundation for enduring growth and comprehensive national advancement.
“Your exemplary leadership, courage, and steadfast dedication to national advancement continue to bolster confidence in Nigeria’s future. The necessary, though challenging, decisions you have taken are setting the course for sustainable long-term prosperity,” Governor Oborevwori remarked.
Reaffirming Delta State’s collaborative stance, the Governor pledged continued support for the federal administration’s programs. “We in Delta State remain fully dedicated to supporting your government and to working in partnership with the Federal Government. Our goal is to advance policies and initiatives that will elevate the welfare of our people and reinforce the strength of our nation,” he affirmed.
Concluding his message, Governor Oborevwori offered prayers for President Tinubu’s continued well-being and guidance. He expressed optimism that Nigeria would achieve further progress under the President’s stewardship. “As you mark this birthday, I pray that Almighty God grants you enduring good health, profound wisdom, and renewed strength to lead Nigeria toward greater heights of achievement,” the Governor stated.
