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Delta Central APC Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori, Other Candidates for 2027 Elections

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By Sunday Apah

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta Central Senatorial District recently demonstrated a united front in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. During a strategic gathering, party leaders, stakeholders, and members collectively endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Ede Dafinone, and all other party candidates. They also emphasized the importance of unity and intensified grassroots mobilization.

This endorsement occurred at the Delta Central APC Stakeholders’ Strategic Meeting, held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre in Effurun.

Chief O’tega Emerhor, a founding leader of the party, initiated the motion for endorsement, which was seconded by Hon. Halims Agoda. Emerhor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, acknowledging the positive impact of their policies and programs on Nigerians and Deltans.

The motion subsequently underwent a voice vote, led by Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, and was unanimously adopted.

In his address, Arenyeka explained that the idea for stakeholders’ meetings across the three senatorial districts originated from a June 11 State Working Committee review of party activities. The committee resolved that each senatorial district should organize such meetings to strengthen the party in preparation for the 2027 elections.

He highlighted the Delta Central meeting as proof that this strategy was yielding positive results, noting that the caliber of attendees showcased unprecedented party unity. He asserted that Delta Central had set a precedent for the remaining senatorial districts.

Arenyeka lauded Governor Oborevwori for his relentless efforts in fostering and maintaining unity within the APC throughout Delta State. He remarked that the governor had dedicated considerable time to traveling across local government areas, reconciling dissatisfied members, and bolstering party structures.

He attributed the APC’s successes largely to the Governor’s leadership and extended a welcome to those who had recently joined the party from other political affiliations.

He assured new members of equitable opportunities and complete integration into the APC. Arenyeka also announced that the Delta North stakeholders’ meeting would take place on August 7 in Asaba, with the date for the Delta South meeting to be announced later.

Earlier, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Chairman of the APC in Delta Central Senatorial District, stated that the governor’s emergence as the party’s governorship candidate reflected the APC’s confidence in his leadership, inclusive governance, and performance in office.

Akpeki noted that the successful execution of the party’s congresses and primaries had strengthened internal democracy, positioning the APC for future electoral victories. He credited Oborevwori’s leadership for the peaceful outcome of these exercises.

He recalled that many observers had predicted internal crises, but the party emerged stronger due to extensive consultations, fairness, and maturity.

“The primaries have concluded. Winners have emerged, and some may naturally feel disappointed. However, the period for internal competition is over. The upcoming election transcends any individual’s ambition. Let us forgive one another, resolve any misunderstandings, and collaborate for the success of our party,” he urged.

He further encouraged members to promote the Oborevwori administration’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, peace, and security, while also advocating President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda across Delta State communities.

Akpeki expressed confidence that a unified, disciplined, and focused APC would secure victory in the 2027 general elections.

Addressing the assembly, Chief Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, congratulated all candidates who triumphed in the party’s primaries and commended those who were unsuccessful for their continued loyalty to the APC.

“The APC is not a magic center where individuals simply acquire tickets. Our candidates emerged through the party’s democratic processes, and we must all respect those outcomes,” Keyamo affirmed.

He emphasized that politics is driven by organization, planning, and consistent engagement with the electorate. He added that President Tinubu’s administration’s economic reforms were beginning to show positive results through increased government revenue and greater investments in infrastructure, job creation, and poverty reduction.

Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, thanked party leaders and stakeholders for supporting his candidacy and that of others within the APC. He pledged to facilitate greater employment and empowerment opportunities for Urhobo youths if re-elected.

Leaders from the three federal constituencies in Delta Central also guaranteed the party’s victory in the upcoming elections. Chief Solomon Ighrakpata (Okpe/Sapele/Udu Federal Constituency), Senator Ighoyota Amori (Ethiope Federal Constituency), and Olorogun John Oguma (Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency) declared that the APC remained united across the federal constituencies and committed to collectively delivering all the party’s candidates at the polls.

Speaking on behalf of women in the district, Hon. Stella Okotete, Executive Director of Business Development at NEXIM Bank, assured party leaders that Delta Central would contribute at least one million votes for the APC in the 2027 general elections. She advocated for greater inclusion, support, and empowerment of women and youths, describing them as crucial to the party’s electoral success.

Also speaking, Hon. Isaiah Esiovwa, Chairman of the Delta State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), stated that council chairmen across Delta Central were fully committed to mobilizing grassroots support to ensure victory for all APC candidates.

On behalf of the local government party chairmen, the APC Chairman in Okpe Local Government Area pledged sustained mobilization, reconciliation of aggrieved members, and strengthened party unity to guarantee an overwhelming victory for the party in the 2027 general elections.

Delta Governor Honours World Spelling Bee Champion with N20 Million Reward

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By Sunday Apah

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has recognized Master Great Chinedu Okediashi with a N20 million reward for his victory at the World Spelling Bee Championship in China.

The Governor highlighted this achievement as evidence of the state’s ongoing commitment to educational development.

This was made known on Friday in Asaba, during a ceremony at Government House where the championship trophy was presented by Okediashi and officials from the Ministry of Secondary Education.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized that this international success underscores the effectiveness of Delta State’s strategic investments in education.

He reiterated that education remains the most valuable inheritance parents and governments can provide for future generations. “Unlike material possessions, which can be lost, education is an enduring asset that remains with an individual throughout life,” the Governor stated.

He further elaborated, “Education is a top priority in Delta State because it is the greatest gift one can bestow upon a child. While wealth may diminish, education endures. This conviction drives our substantial investments in the sector.”

The Governor noted Delta State’s consistent strong performance in global academic contests, recalling the state’s contribution to the Nigerian team that secured victory in the World Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, last year.

“This triumph comes as no surprise to us in Delta State. Last year, Nigeria, specifically Delta State, claimed the world debate championship in Doha, and now Master Great Chinedu Okediashi has brought the World Spelling Bee trophy from China to Delta State.

This demonstrates the effectiveness of our educational investments,” he remarked. “Beyond constructing school infrastructure, we are establishing a robust educational foundation, and this accomplishment is a direct result.”

Governor Oborevwori commended the student’s parents for their role in his upbringing and expressed regret at their absence from the event, stating they deserved equal acknowledgment for their son’s success.

He also lauded Madonna International School for its commitment to quality education, announcing that in addition to the N20 million for the student, the state government would provide support to the school.

Earlier, Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu, Commissioner for Secondary Education, hailed the victory as a monumental achievement for Delta State, Nigeria, and the African continent.

He noted that this triumph signifies the return of the esteemed trophy to Africa, attributing the student’s success to years of perseverance and unwavering support from the Delta State Government.

Ashibuogwu credited the Governor’s financial and moral encouragement throughout the competition for motivating the team to persist until they ultimately won the global title in China.

“We are here not only to present the trophy but also to express our gratitude to Your Excellency. Your encouragement, continuous oversight, prayers, and financial backing were instrumental in this success. Today, the trophy is back in Africa, back in Nigeria, and now proudly in Delta State,” the commissioner affirmed.

He also praised the Governor for the extensive investments in the education sector, particularly in enhancing teaching and learning across public schools in the state.

Upon presenting the trophy to the Governor, Master Okediashi conveyed his gratitude for the support and pledged to continue striving to bring further accolades and international recognition to Delta State and Nigeria.

Otor-Ogor Community President General Refutes Allegations, Cites Achievements, Labels Protest a Family Affair

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By Sunday Apah

Mr. Emmanuel Edirin, President-General of Otor-Ogor Community in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, has vehemently denied accusations of maladministration, abuse of office, and financial impropriety.

He characterized these claims as a coordinated effort by a small group of relatives and associates of his accusers, who, he suggests, are discontent with his administration’s stringent approach to combating crime.

Following a recent protest against his leadership, Edirin asserted that the demonstration did not reflect the views of the majority of Otor-Ogor residents, maintaining that most of the community remained supportive of his tenure.

He also noted that HRM Okiuemute Igere I, the traditional ruler of Ogor Kingdom, has publicly condemned attempts to sow discord within the community and continues to advocate for peaceful dispute resolution.

“The protest was not carried out by the women and youth of Otor-Ogor Community as has been portrayed. It was orchestrated by a handful of family members and relatives of those making these allegations against me. The wider community is well aware of our accomplishments and is proud of this administration,” Edirin stated.

Edirin further contended that the persistent attacks against him are directly linked to his unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking, cultism, and other criminal activities. “I made it clear that anyone involved in selling cocaine, Colorado, or other hard drugs would face arrest, regardless of their connections. Many of those now criticizing my administration became unhappy because some of their relatives were implicated,” he explained.

He affirmed that all significant decisions made during his administration are thoroughly documented and were always undertaken with the community’s best interests at heart. “Everything I have done is documented. I have no reason to fabricate information. My conscience is clear because every decision I made was for the development, peace, and security of the Otor-Ogor Community,” he emphasized.

The President-General also pointed out that his current accusers had themselves led an administration lacking transparency. He recounted his experience as Vice Chairman under a previous administration, during which he was suspended by the Council of Elders over alleged community liabilities, despite, he claims, never being informed about the transactions.

“I was suspended due to alleged liabilities to the community. While those matters were documented, I was never privy to any of them,” he revealed. He alleged that he was routinely excluded from crucial decisions despite holding the office of Vice Chairman. “People brought gifts, such as bags of rice and vegetable oil, to the community, but I was never informed about the quantities received or how they were distributed,” he added.

Edirin further claimed he was never consulted before community transformers, including one donated by Hon. Mannering, were removed and sold. “I knew nothing about the sale of the transformers. Even the transformer near my wife’s shop was removed because they claimed it had developed a fault. I was neither consulted nor informed,” he stated. He considered resigning at the time because the suspension was damaging his political reputation over transactions in which he played no part.

He also accused the then President-General of diminishing his office, quoting him as saying, “He told me I was only a figurehead and that my role would only become relevant if he left office or died. Eventually, he apologized, but from then on, I decided to distance myself from him.”

Regarding allegations concerning the community’s purchase of his Toyota Sienna, Edirin clarified that the transaction followed security recommendations prompted by rising criminal activities. He explained that the factory-fitted Sienna Limited Edition was a gift from his employer and was already advertised for sale when executive members proposed acquiring it for the community vigilante group.

“The Divisional Police Officer advised that the vigilante needed a patrol vehicle. I initially refused to sell my vehicle because I did not want anyone to accuse me of benefiting from the community. Eventually, after much persuasion, I sold an ₦8 million vehicle to the community for ₦6 million,” he elaborated.

On claims involving a freezer and plasma television, Edirin insisted both items were legitimately purchased. “The same person who later accused me had earlier sold those items to me. When he later accused me of stealing his generator, I became concerned he might also accuse me of stealing the freezer and television,” he said. He demanded receipts for the items multiple times and even offered to return them if his money was refunded.

The President-General also dismissed assertions that he sold community land. He explained that the controversy revolved around land ownership, known to Mr. Monday Otobrise, President-General of Ogor kingdom, where Edirin opposed efforts to classify the land as belonging to the entire kingdom rather than the Otor-Ogor Community. “Several people signed documents relating to the land, but I refused because I believed the land belongs to the Otor-Ogor Community,” he affirmed.

He disclosed that he petitioned the Council of Elders after discovering that portions of the forest had allegedly been encroached upon and sold without proper consultation. “Otor-Ogor Community did not sell the land. Individuals who claimed ownership sold it, while part of the proceeds was later paid into the community account,” he clarified.

Edirin highlighted his administration’s success in transforming the community’s power sector, which he said inherited unstable electricity. He claimed that no previous President-General had installed as much electricity infrastructure as his administration. “Before my administration, there was no stable electricity. Today, we have installed three brand-new transformers, high-tension lines, armored cables, and completed the electricity distribution network,” he stated. He explained that one transformer was facilitated by an influential community member working with NEPA, while the others resulted from lobbying and community support.

He also defended the introduction of electricity connection contributions, which he said became necessary after electricity bills escalated from ₦500,0

Drive For Unity, Culture: ICUK Rallies Itsekiris Across UK for 2026 Inaugural Heritage Day Celebration

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By Sunday Apah

The Itsekiri Congress UK (ICUK), the primary organization representing Itsekiri people in the United Kingdom, is calling on all Itsekiri individuals residing in the UK to participate in their inaugural Itsekiri Heritage Day 2026. The event, themed “Our Heritage, Our Voice: Inspiring Our Future with One Voice,” aims to foster unity and cultural pride.

Scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, the celebration will commence at 10:00 a.m. at Deptford Park, 23 Scawen Road, London. Itsekiris from across the UK are anticipated to gather for a grand celebration of their rich cultural heritage, solidarity, and identity.

A joint statement from ICUK President, Mr. Sunny Oritsegbubemi Okuku, and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Norris Orighoye, urged all Itsekiri residents to attend in large numbers to celebrate their heritage with a unified voice, accord, and purpose.

The statement also highlighted that the Itsekiri Congress UK comprises six affiliated bodies dedicated to promoting the welfare, unity, and cultural heritage of Itsekiris in the UK. These include Warri National Union UK, Warri Progressive Society (Otonloye) London, Warri Ladies Vanguard London, Ugbajo Itsekiri UK, Itsekiri Cultural Heritage UK, and Ugbajo Eberen Iwere (Omutse) UK.

Organizers have planned a vibrant celebration featuring traditional dance performances, cultural exhibitions, children’s games, music, and a diverse array of authentic Itsekiri delicacies. The event is designed to help Itsekiris in the diaspora, especially younger generations, reconnect with their ancestral roots, customs, language, and cherished traditions.

The ICUK leadership emphasized that the Inaugural Itsekiri Heritage Day transcends a typical cultural festival; it symbolizes peace, unity, and solidarity among the Itsekiri people. They underscored the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage passed down by their ancestors while motivating future generations to embrace their identity and collaborate for the advancement of Iwere Kingdom.

Attendees, including Itsekiri families, friends, and well-wishers, are encouraged to experience the renowned Itsekiri hospitality, captivating cultural displays, music, dance, traditional cuisine, and strong community spirit. Participants are assured of a memorable day filled with enjoyment, networking opportunities, cultural pride, and the strengthening of bonds among Itsekiris in the diaspora.

ICUK reiterated its commitment to promoting the unity, progress, and cultural heritage of the Itsekiri people throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. They extended an invitation to every Itsekiri resident in the UK to join the celebration, proudly display the enduring heritage of Iwere Kingdom, and inspire the future with a collective voice.

Amnesty Leadership Vigorously Defends General Aroni, Denounces “Baseless Blackmail” Against PAP Administrator

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By Sunday Apah

General Ken Ben, a prominent leader within Phase 3 of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has issued a strong rebuke against a recent publication that targeted both the current PAP Administrator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, and the National President of the First Phase Ex-Agitators’ Leaders Forum, General Aroni Oputu (popularly known as General Aroni).

The condemnation addresses what Ben describes as a malicious and unfounded attack.

The catalyst for this strong response was a controversial report by a coalition that accused Dr. Otuaro of undermining the Niger Delta liberation struggle.

This group specifically alleged that Oputu, whom they controversially labeled a “notorious armed robber,” had been inappropriately appointed to represent Phase One ex-agitators, questioning his legitimacy and character.

However, General Ken Ben swiftly dismissed the publication, characterizing it as a “baseless blackmail attempt.” He asserted that the report was orchestrated by “enemies of progress” whose primary aim was to tarnish hard-earned reputations and to artificially ignite conflict between General Aroni and his relative, Pastor Ruben, who is also involved in the amnesty program.

Ben robustly defended General Aroni’s background and credentials, emphasizing his widely recognized status as a front-line freedom fighter.

He confirmed that Aroni legitimately surrendered his arms in 2009 as part of the ‘Underdog Camp 2’ in Warri North Local Government Area. General Ken Ben openly challenged any detractors to verify these records directly with the Presidential Amnesty Office, underscoring the transparency of Aroni’s participation.

Furthermore, Ken Ben highlighted General Aroni’s extensive and distinguished service in public office. He noted that Aroni currently holds the position of Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Security to the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

This appointment follows a consistent track record of service under three consecutive state administrations. In 2010, Aroni was appointed to the Delta State Waterways Security Committee under Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan.

During Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s first term, he served on the Waterways and Land Security Committee, and was subsequently elevated to Special Assistant (SA) on Security during Okowa’s second term.

“Are these detractors, purportedly led by Tare Deseimoham, suggesting that three successive governors lacked proper judgment?” Ken Ben questioned rhetorically.

He powerfully argued that an individual with a genuine criminal record would never have been able to secure, let alone maintain, such sensitive security clearances and appointments across multiple administrations, indicating a clear vetting process.

Ben further underscored Aroni’s standing within his community, stating, “If General Aroni Oputu were not a responsible and capable leader, he would not have been honored with a prestigious chieftaincy title in Egbema Kingdom.”

He clarified that Aroni’s leadership mandate as the National President of the First Phase Ex-Agitators’ Leaders Forum was not an arbitrary imposition by Dr. Otuaro but rather the result of a democratic election by his peers.

He urged the public to disregard the “propaganda,” attributing it to individuals envious of the stability and progress fostered under the current PAP leadership.

Regarding Pastor Ruben, Ken Ben acknowledged that his background and entry into the amnesty programme are well-established within the local community.

While critics have attempted to portray Ruben as the “first president” of Phase One to suggest he was the sole combatant, Ken Ben clarified that Ruben, like other participants, surrendered his arms as part of the program.

“I know Pastor Ruben did not authorize these anonymous individuals to circulate such falsehoods,” Ken Ben added, asserting that the publication was a “desperate attempt by external agents to create animosity between General Aroni and his brother from Bayelsa.”

General Ken Ben concluded his remarks by characterizing those behind the “blackmail” as “cowards” who are intimidated by the positive advancements and transformation occurring under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

He provocatively suggested that “rather than questioning the records of General Aroni Oputu, I recommend that these detractors have their own brains checked, or be recommended to their respective state governors for immediate admission into a rehabilitation centre.”

He firmly reiterated that “the records of Aroni Oputu are clean, his camp is verifiable, and his service to the Niger Delta is unshakeable.”

Governor Oborevwori Laments Death of Delta Journalist, Dave Okpogadie

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, conveyed deep sorrow regarding the demise of veteran journalist and News Direct’s State Correspondent, Comrade Dave Okpogadie.

He characterized Okpogadie’s passing as a significant void for both the field of journalism and Delta State as a whole.

Okpogadie passed away on Saturday, concluding a valiant two-year struggle with jaw cancer.

Through a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori extended his sincere sympathies to Okpogadie’s family, the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the broader media community, and his loved ones.

The governor lauded the late Okpogadie as a highly skilled professional whose unwavering commitment, honesty, and devotion to journalism garnered him the esteem and admiration of his peers and the public.

He remarked that the journalist’s bravery, fortitude, and steadfast belief throughout his extended illness served as a source of inspiration for many who supported him during his challenging experience.

Governor Oborevwori offered prayers for the peaceful rest of the departed media veteran’s soul and requested divine strength for his family, friends, colleagues, and members of the NUJ Delta State Council to endure this profound loss.

Ughelli South Political Colonels Commend Avweromre’s Two Years of Service

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By Sunday Apah 

The Ughelli South Political Colonels have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Hon. Lucky Avweromre, on the auspicious occasion of his two-year anniversary in office. 

The group lauded Avweromre’s tenure as marked by significant progress and impactful initiatives that have positively transformed the lives of the people.

In a statement released by the Press Secretary, Olorogun Sunday Apah, on behalf of the Chairman, Olorogun John Ewenede, and the entire executive and membership of the Ughelli South Political Colonels, the group expressed profound gratitude for Hon. Avweromre’s remarkable achievements.

The statement highlighted the chairman’s dedication to community development and his unwavering commitment to fulfilling his electoral promises.

The Ughelli South Political Colonels specifically commended Hon. Avweromre for his strategic leadership and his ability to navigate the complexities of local governance.

They pointed to various projects and policies implemented under his administration that have demonstrably improved infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security within the Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The group further emphasized that Avweromre’s two years in office have been characterized by transparency, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve the people.

They noted his accessibility to constituents and his proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by the communities he represents, fostering a sense of unity and collective progress.

The Ughelli South Political Colonels reaffirmed their continued support for Hon. Lucky Avweromre’s administration.

They expressed optimism that his remaining time in office would bring even greater development and prosperity to the area, building upon the solid foundation he has established over the past two years.

Delta’s Internally Generated Revenue Exceeds ₦200 Billion, Praised by RMAFC for Diversification

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State has significantly boosted its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), rising from approximately ₦84 billion in 2023 to over ₦200 billion.

This remarkable increase, representing more than 138 percent growth, reflects Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s intensified efforts to broaden the state’s economic base beyond its traditional reliance on oil.

This achievement was highlighted during a visit by a delegation from the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to Asaba on Monday.

The purpose of their visit was to evaluate Delta’s initiatives in economic diversification and revenue generation.

Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, stated that Delta State is strategically reorienting its economy through targeted investments in agriculture, industrialization, innovation, and other non-oil sectors.

He further explained that this impressive revenue growth was accomplished without raising personal income tax rates. Instead, it was attributed to an expanded tax base, enhanced administrative processes, improved compliance, and more efficient revenue collection methods.

Ekedayen emphasized that agriculture is a primary driver of the diversification agenda, propelled by Public-Private Partnerships. Under these arrangements, the government provides land, while investors contribute capital and technology for large-scale cultivation of crops such as cassava and oil palm.

Chief Fidelis Tilije, the Commissioner for Finance, added that the government is also fostering industrialization through strategic infrastructure investments. He revealed that the Kwale Industrial Park is soon to be fully operational, aiming to attract new investors.

Additionally, efforts are underway to revitalize maritime activities through improved cooperation with the Federal Government concerning the Warri and Forcados ports.

Mr. Victor Eboigbe, who led the RMAFC delegation, underscored the unsustainability of relying solely on oil revenue and commended Delta’s dedication to economic diversification.

He noted that this assessment aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and lauded Governor Oborevwori for implementing policies designed to build a robust and sustainable economy.

Hon. Aruviere Martins Egwarhevwa, the Federal Commissioner representing Delta State in RMAFC, clarified that the visit was part of the Commission’s constitutional mandate to assess states’ diversification efforts and strengthen collaboration on fiscal development.

The delegation expressed satisfaction with Delta’s economic transformation initiatives and encouraged the state to maintain its current positive trajectory.

Delta Police Nab Suspected Robbers, Gunrunner, Cultists; Recover Firearms

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of several individuals suspected of armed robbery, gunrunning, and cultism across various locations in the state.

The operations also led to the recovery of locally made firearms, live cartridges, and other exhibits.

According to a statement released by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, operatives, in collaboration with the Civilian Anti-Cult group, acted on credible intelligence to apprehend two suspected armed robbers, Stephen Danladi (29) and Jude Christian (26), along the Asaba–Benin Expressway on July 14, 2026, at approximately 5:00 a.m. Two locally made pistols were recovered from them.

Further interrogation led to the arrest of Jerry Egenus in Issele-Asagba, Ogwashi-Uku, who is suspected of being a gunrunner and receiver of stolen property.

Preliminary investigations suggest these individuals are part of a gang linked to a series of armed robberies in Okpanam, Asaba, and surrounding areas, primarily targeting mobile phones, motorcycles, and other valuables.

In a separate incident on July 12, 2026, at about 4:30 p.m., operatives of the Oghara Division intercepted a silver Lexus RX330 SUV.

A search of the vehicle and its four occupants revealed a concealed locally made cut-to-size gun on the driver and one live cartridge within the vehicle. All suspects were arrested, and investigations are ongoing.

Additionally, on July 10, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., following a distress call, Ogwashi-Uku Division operatives responded to the Polytechnic area and arrested a 24-year-old non-student suspected of being a member of the Eiye Confraternity.

Recovered from him were a locally made pistol, three live cartridges, one expended cartridge, and a dagger knife.

Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the command’s dedication to intelligence-led policing to dismantle criminal networks, combat cultism, and curb the proliferation of illegal firearms.

He urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist law enforcement in safeguarding lives and property across Delta State.

ICMPD, Storms Osubi with Campaign Against Human Trafficking, Drug Abuse, Child Abuse

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By Sunday Apah

The School Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP), a collaborative initiative funded by the Government of Netherlands and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) in partnership with NAPTIP, the Delta State Ministry of Education, the Delta State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, and Hope Health Organisation (HHO), Ozoro, the Civil Society Organization implementing STEAP in the state, launched an extensive awareness campaign in Osubi community.

The campaign focused on the critical issues of Trafficking in Human Beings (THB), drug abuse, and child abuse.

The programme was carried out with the technical support of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), coordinated through its Delta State Project office headed by Ijeoma David-Ukoko, whose guidance helped shape the successful delivery of the town hall meeting and street rally.

Mrs. Oluwakemi Omotoso, CSO STEAP Project Coordinator, emphasized that the program is designed to implement school-based anti-trafficking education and advocacy.

She noted that a total of 104 participants (45 men and 59 women) turned out for the town hall meeting, reflecting strong community interest in the campaign’s message.

She highlighted that human trafficking is a growing problem significantly impacting young people, often exacerbated by current economic conditions.

“Many people are only looking at the perceived benefits, being deceived with promises of money and jobs to better their families, without being told about the dangers of human trafficking,” Oluwakemi stated.

“Traffickers are everywhere, and we are here in Osubi to sensitize the community about the risks and consequences of human trafficking, not only for the victims but also for their families, society, and the nation as a whole.”

She urged community members to take responsibility and collaborate in preventing human trafficking, ensuring collective action to eradicate the issue.

Oluwakemi also noted that the project extends its campaign to include drug abuse and child labour, recognizing these as contributing factors to vulnerability to trafficking.

During the event, Mrs. Tega Agboba, a resource person, presented on child abuse, defining it as any act or failure to act by a parent or caretaker resulting in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse, exploitation, or an imminent risk of serious harm to a child.

She outlined various types of child abuse, including physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional/psychological abuse.

Mrs. Agboba detailed the profound effects, ranging from physical injuries and chronic health problems to psychological trauma, aggression, and academic difficulties.

She also discussed parental, child, and environmental factors contributing to abuse and stressed the importance of preventive measures such as education, support systems, early intervention, public awareness, and policy changes.

Mrs. Ufuoma Orukele addressed human trafficking, defining it as the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit another person for labor or commercial sex.

She categorized types as sex trafficking and labor trafficking, illustrating with examples like individuals lured by false job offers and forced into labor, or runaway teens coerced into prostitution.

Mrs. Orukele underscored the severe physical, psychological, and social effects on victims, emphasizing that the primary purpose of trafficking is exploitation for the trafficker’s financial gain.

President General of Osubi community, Mr. Julius Okerege who spoke on behalf of the leaders and participants lauded the program, acknowledging its potential to significantly aid in addressing human trafficking, child abuse, child labor, and drug abuse within Osubi.

To extend the campaign’s reach beyond the town hall, a street rally and distribution of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials followed, drawing in community members present at the activity to broaden the message across the wider population.

The rally moved through the busy streets of Osubi, engaging a total of over 2,000 residents directly.

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