In a commendation of peace and statesmanship, the OML 150 Communities Consultative Forum has praised Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio for his decision to withdraw all defamation lawsuits previously filed against his colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a press statement signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Dr. Monday Agbeyi, and Secretary, Mr. Oritseweyinmi Aginejuone, the group described the withdrawal as a remarkable display of maturity and leadership befitting someone of Senator Akpabio’s stature.
“Senator Akpabio’s action serves as a powerful example to political leaders and public officials alike, emphasizing the critical role of unity, open dialogue, and forgiveness in nation-building,” the statement said.
The Forum encouraged the Senate President to build on this momentum by engaging more constructively with his critics and taking their concerns seriously to foster improved governance.
Further, the Forum called on both senators to pursue full reconciliation. It suggested that Senator Akpabio could deepen the peace-building process by formally inviting High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, The Alema of Warri Kingdom and husband to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, into the dialogue.
“Such a move would send a compelling message of healing and unity to both Nigerians and the political landscape,” the statement noted.
The OML 150 Communities also recalled the close relationship between the two senators before their political disagreements and welcomed signs of restored unity.
Highlighting that both share the same birthday, the Forum described it as a “divine reminder that their destinies are linked in service to the nation,” emphasizing the need for their continued cooperation for Nigeria’s progress.
The statement concluded with sincere congratulations and encouragement for Senators Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan to nurture this renewed spirit of partnership.
“May this revived relationship foster greater collaboration and exemplary leadership that will inspire future generations,” the Forum prayed.
In a passionate plea to the highest office in the land, Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo, the National Assistant Secretary of the Urhobo Progress Union and National President of the Urhobo Youth Leaders Association, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene and secure the release of six Okuama Community leaders unlawfully held by the Nigerian Army for almost two years.
In his New year message with selected journalists on Saturday, January 3, 2026, Oghotomo deplored the ongoing detention of the Okuama six—including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mr. James Oghoroko (who tragically died in custody), Mr. Dennis Okugbaye, Mr. Dennis Amalaka, and Mrs. Mabel Owhemu—whose arrest dates back to August 18 and 19, 2024.
He revealed alarming reports that the detainees have been denied access to doctors, lawyers, and even their families, raising serious concerns about their health and human rights.
“The relentless incarceration of these community leaders without trial is an affront to Nigeria’s democracy and a blatant mockery of the rule of law,” Oghotomo asserted.
He slammed the Nigerian Army for “grossly violating constitutional guarantees that protect human dignity and the right to a fair hearing.”
Oghotomo’s anguish deepened as he recounted the death of Mr. James Oghoroko in custody, a grim testament to the perilous conditions endured by those detained. “This heartbreaking loss intensifies fears over the wellbeing of the remaining detainees,” he said.
He further urged President Tinubu to leverage his authority to prevail on military leadership for the immediate release of the Okuama leaders, emphasizing that “no prima facie evidence exists to justify their prolonged detention.”
He noted that his appeal also underscored the critical need to cement peace and unity among the Urhobo, Ijaw, and Itsekiri communities in Delta State—a fragile harmony he believes will be shattered if justice remains denied.
Meanwhile, he encouraged Deltans to continue rallying behind Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, commending the governor’s administration for driving unprecedented development since assuming office.
Ekakpamre community was awash with celebrations on Saturday 3rd January, 2025 as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, Mr. Simon Umudi, popularly known as Temple played host to Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, the National Political Leader of Ughelli South Local Government Area.
Oguma, accompanied by executives and members of Ughelli South’s political stalwarts, was warmly received by Temple and the people of Ekakpamre, led by Comrade Jacob Abitor, amidst vibrant fanfare and festivities.
Speaking at the event, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma praised Mr. Temple as a committed and hardworking member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in both the state and Ughelli South LGA.
He emphasized that his emergence as the National Leader of Ughelli South was no accident but a result of dedication and divine favour.
Oguma further reflected on the leadership lineage of the LGA, noting that just as he never sought to unseat the late Chief Harrison Jefia, nor challenged the legacies of the late Chief Patrick Okitiakpe and former Deputy Governor Professor Amos Utuama, no one would remove him from his position without due process.
Oguma urged all residents of Ughelli South present at the visit to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to foster sustained development at both the national and state levels.
He offered a prayer for the continued success and advancement of Mr. Temple, affirming that his current achievements only hint at the greater accomplishments ahead.
In his response, Mr. Temple recounted advice from the late Hon. Chief Taleb Tebite, who had instructed him before his passing to follow and steadfastly support Chief John Unukebo Oguma.
Motivated by this guidance and Oguma’s leadership qualities, Temple vowed to remain a loyal ally.
Expressing his delight, Temple welcomed the National Leader and his deputy, Chief Adelabu Bodjor — who also serves as the leader of Ughievwen APC — on their visit.
He confidently declared that since their defection to the APC, electoral outcomes in Ughelli South LGA would now favour a unified front in forthcoming elections.
The Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) have congratulated the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, on the occasion of his birth in anniversary today, 2nd January 2026.
In a message issued by the Press Secretary of USPC, Olorogun Sunday Apah, the USPC expressed their appreciation for Dr. Avweromre’s outstanding leadership and dedication to the development of Ughelli South.
The statement highlighted his commitment to good governance, community engagement, and infrastructural growth in the council area.
The political colonels noted that under Hon. Dr. Avweromre’s stewardship, significant strides have been made in improving public services and enhancing the welfare of the local population.
They acknowledged his efforts to foster unity among diverse communities and encourage participation in local government affairs.
“We are proud to celebrate the life of a man whose contributions to Ughelli South cannot be overstated,” the statement read. “On this special day, we wish Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre abundant health, wisdom, and continued success in all his endeavors.”
The USPC further urged the people of Ughelli South to support their chairman in his ongoing projects, emphasizing that collective effort is essential to sustaining the progress achieved so far.
They encouraged residents to see this birthday as an opportunity to renew their commitment to the council’s development agenda.
Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, a prominent political figure and community leader, hailed from the region and has been at the helm of the local government council for several years.
His tenure is marked by projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which have positively impacted many lives.
As the community celebrates this day, various groups, traditional rulers, and stakeholders have also planned to honor the council chairman with felicitations and prayers for his continued leadership.
The birthday serves as a reminder of the dedication and service that Hon. Dr. Avweromre embodies for the people of Ughelli South.
The people of Ovwor-Olomu Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State on Thursday paid a ‘Thank You Visit’ to the National Leader of the LGA, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, in appreciation of his continuous support for the community.
The visit took place at the country home of the Ughelli South political leader and was attended by notable dignitaries including Olorogun Dr. Lucky Avweromre, Chairman of Ughelli South LGA; Olorogun John Ewenede, Secretary to the Local Government; Hon. Paul Etaga, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters; Olorogun Sylvester Uzoh, Senior Special Adviser on Political Matters; Olorogun Friday Ijomoni, former Councilor, Ughelli South LGA Legislative Arm; Deacon Mathew Kwode, Executive Assistant to the Governor; Hon. Lucky Orusara, former Councilor, Ughelli South LGA Legislative Arm; Chief Mathew Oguma, Executive Assistant to the Governor; Mr. Samuel Abido, Secretary, Local Education Authority, Ughelli South LGA; Hon. Sunday Mrakpor, Supervisor for Works, Ughelli South LGA Council; Hon. Atiku Julius, former Personal Assistant to Ughelli South LGA Council Chairman; Chief Ufuoma Okpobia, member of Olomu Council of Chiefs; among others.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Mr. Campaign Ogboru expressed gratitude to Oguma for his consistent display of love, generosity, and a strong sense of responsibility, especially during festive periods.
He highlighted the gift of several bags of rice, cows, and financial support given to families to ease economic burdens during the holiday season, describing these gestures as invaluable.
The community praised Oguma as a selfless leader and a true son of the soil whose actions have consistently reflected compassion, humility, and commitment to grassroots development.
They also noted that his benevolence during the Yuletide season brought joy, relief, and a sense of belonging to many households within Ovwor-Olomu and beyond.
In his response, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma expressed deep appreciation to the people of Ovwor-Olomu Community for the visit and their show of love.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the progress, unity, and development of the community, emphasizing that his efforts are driven by a sincere desire to give back and uplift his people.
Oguma further urged the community to continue supporting the MORE Agenda of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, and to embrace peace, unity, and cooperation as essential tools for sustainable development.
He assured them of his readiness to continue backing initiatives that promote the collective interests of Ovwor-Olomu Community and beyond.
The community presented livestocks, food items, fish and photo portraits while Oguma in turn gave them wrappers and other assorted gifts.
…Chides Ughelli South LG Council Officials for Bypassing Community Constitution
By Sunday Apah
The people of Ekwaba Quarters, Egbo-Uhurie Community, Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, have rejected the alleged election of Mr. Gift Moke as President General of the community.
They described the election as a gross deviation from the community constitution, orchestrated by officials of the council who conducted the election.
The community members expressed their grievances during a protest at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Isoko Road, Ughelli, Delta State, on 30th December 2025.
Speaking on behalf of Ekwaba Quarters, Mr. Efeduma Najophen, Mr. Bishop Makililo, and Mr. Ufuoma Omatie described the incident as a mere charade perpetrated by the officials of the Ughelli South Local Government Area who conducted the election.
They stressed that the local government council has no jurisdiction in the conduct of Ekwaba Quarters’ community election, except in an observatory capacity.
According to them, “We came to the NUJ Secretariat to inform the world of the oppression meted out to us by the council officials. We believe the council was not fully aware of the nature of their actions.
“We want Nigerians, relevant authorities, and the international community to take note of this grave and troubling incident involving the unlawful interference and hijacking of a duly constituted community election.
“The election was supposed to be conducted in accordance with the community constitution and established democratic processes, using recognized and authorized delegates drawn from families and stakeholders within Ekwaba Quarters.
“The approved delegates included the following: Tineru Family: Felix Ejenavi, Austin Makililo, Emmanuel Fashion, Chief Gabriel Eko, and Monday Gbekebo; Jovwe Family: Soldier, Dickson Omatie, Paul Akwa, Ochuko Solomon, and Michael Udu; Ekromogbe Family: Enajophe Efeduma, Bright Dukuye, Taye Orogu, Chief Koko Phopho, and Felix Roze.
“Contrary to these lawful arrangements, officials of the Ughelli South Local Government Area Council allegedly intervened by introducing an unauthorized list of delegates that did not conform to those constitutionally empowered to vote.
“Through this action, the election was effectively hijacked, circumventing all agreed procedures.
“An individual who had already been overwhelmingly rejected by the community was forcefully installed as winner.
“This individual failed to meet constitutional requirements for the position and has, in the past, repeatedly disrupted election processes through inflammatory conduct and deliberate obstruction of voting whenever outcomes were unfavorable to him.
“The community has consistently rejected his leadership. It is our position that, having lost the confidence and support of the people, this individual colluded with the Local Government Council to impose himself through illegitimate means.
“There are serious concerns regarding his character, as several past issues associated with him do not align with the values, norms, and way of life of Ekwaba Quarters.
“More disturbing was the presence of armed police and military personnel, who allegedly engaged in sporadic gunfire, causing fear and panic among residents. This intimidation prevented community members from freely exercising their franchise. What should have remained a peaceful civil and community matter was instead militarized.
“The people of Ekwaba Quarters rejected the imposed outcome. Peaceful protests ensued, and stakeholders sought redress by engaging the monarch and other traditional authorities in the region.
“We are deeply concerned that if this unlawful act is not urgently and appropriately addressed, it may lead to a breakdown of law and order in the community and have long-term negative effects on political stability, communal harmony, and the overall welfare of Ekwaba Quarters.
“We reiterate the following critical questions: How did this process originate, and who authorized it? On what legal basis did the Local Government Council override a constitutionally recognized community election?
“Why was an individual who did not meet constitutional requirements declared winner? Who authorized the deployment of armed police and military personnel to a purely civil and community matter? Why was a peaceful process militarized instead of protected?
“We call on the general public, the Delta State Government, relevant security and oversight agencies, the Federal Government of Nigeria, civil society organizations, human rights bodies, and the international community to urgently intervene, investigate this matter, and ensure accountability, justice, and respect for democratic principles.
“The people of Ekwaba Quarters remain committed to peace, lawful conduct, and dialogue. However, we will not accept intimidation, illegality, or the erosion of our constitutional and communal rights,” the trio concluded.
The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Olorogun Jaro Omovudu Egbo, has approved the dissolution of all 2025 Revenue Committees and Revenue Contractors/Consultants operating within the Ughelli North Local Government Council Area.
The council, in a statement issued by Pastor Goodluck I. Unuavworho, Secretary to the Local Government, stated that the decision was announced following the final Executive Council meeting for 2025 held on 30th December 2025.
The Chairman has advised residents, traders, landlords, and all business operators within the Local Government Area not to make any 2026 revenue payments to any committee or revenue contractor/consultant at this time. This directive is to prevent double taxation.
He assured the public that the Council will formally notify citizens once the 2026 Revenue Committees are duly constituted, after which revenue collection will officially commence.
Furthermore, all Chairmen and Secretaries of the dissolved committees are directed to hand over all Local Government properties in their possession to the Treasurer of the Local Government, Mrs. Mercy Morkah, of the Accounts and Finance Department without delay.
He reiterated that, for now, no revenue should be paid to any committee within the Local Government Area.
“However, any individual or business owner willing to pay 2026 revenue at this time is advised to visit the Ughelli North Local Government Council Secretariat and make payment directly to the Revenue Office Unit, into the official Local Government account”, it added.
Comrade Ator Okolosi, a former Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Community Development, has congratulated Sheba Kris Palama on the occasion of his birthday anniversary today, 30th December 2025.
In a heartfelt statement, Okolosi described Palama as a generous businessman whose contributions have significantly impacted his people.
The former aide to immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa praised Palama for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people, highlighting his philanthropic nature which has made him a respected figure in Udu Kingdom, Urhobo, Delta State and beyond.
Okolosi emphasized that Palama’s annual Christmas and New Year packages have positively affected numerous lives, not only in Udu but also in neighboring communities.
These gestures, according to Okolosi, exemplify Palama’s dedication to community development and empowerment.
“Palama is more than just an oil magnate; he is a beacon of hope for many. Year after year, his generosity during the festive seasons uplifts the less privileged and fosters a spirit of unity among the people of Udu and beyond,” Okolosi stated.
Acknowledging Palama’s business acumen, Okolosi remarked that the success of his ventures has enabled him to give back to society in meaningful ways.
This blend of entrepreneurship and philanthropy sets a standard for others in the business community to emulate.
Okolosi also called on other prominent individuals in the society to follow Palama’s example by engaging in acts of kindness and contributing to the socio-economic growth of their communities. “It is through such collective efforts that sustainable development can be achieved,” he remarked.
Okolosi wished Palama good health, continued success, and the strength to keep making a difference.
In a heartwarming gesture reflecting the spirit of the season, the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard, a prominent social-cultural organization, has donated essential medical equipment, beddings, and food items valued at hundreds of thousands of naira to Otu-Jeremi General Hospital.
The generous contribution aims to support both the hospital management and the patients during the festive period.
The donated items included bedspreads, pillowcases, plastic buckets, blood pressure machines, drip stands, snacks, soft drinks, and various other supplies necessary for patient care and hospital operations.
At the donation ceremony, Mrs. Oboh Margret, President of the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard, emphasized that the initiative was a way to express love and care to the hospital’s management and patients.
“We wish the patients a Merry Christmas and a speedy recovery. We urge everyone to hold on to life and hope,” she said.
Mrs. Margret also highlighted the importance of community involvement in addressing health challenges. “We cannot rely solely on the government to take care of everything. In our own personal ways, we can all give back to our community and society at large,” she added.
She encouraged other organizations to emulate their example and contribute to the welfare of society.
On behalf of Otu-Jeremi General Hospital, Dr. Tuoyo Eda and Matron Ufuoma Inone received the items, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful donation and the positive impact it would have on patients and healthcare delivery.
The event was further enlivened by members of the Emmanuel Urhobo Catholic Joint Choirs (EUCJC), who performed beautiful Christmas songs that captivated all attendees, bringing a festive and joyful atmosphere to the occasion.
Other executives and members of the Ughievwen Ladies Vanguard present at the event included Mrs. Emoavwodua Cecilia, Vice President, Madam Eunice Korugbo, Secretary, Mrs. Enajijevwe Awolowo, Financial Secretary/Treasurer, Chief Pauline Okiotor, Ex-President and Queen Rose Egbi, Queen Elizabeth Oghenero Idogho, while Mrs. Uviemuamren Pauline Imudje are members.
Tension is currently brewing in Orhuwhorun town over an attempt by suspected land grabbers to impeach the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun community, Mr. Ochuko Jeroh to cover up their illicit deals.
It would be recalled that Hon. ThankGod Agolokigho, Mr. Ighowho Takerere, Chief Moses Bokor, Chief Apine Layer, VIC Land & Property Limited, and others were summoned to the High Court of Justice, Oror-Udu, in suit No: OUHC/208/2025 by Pa Jude Rewa Okolosi, Mr. Ator Okolosi representing Uterhi gate of the Ekrekun family; Pa Dodor Chabor, Mr. Friday Ovedje for themselves and on behalf of Atare gate of the Ekrekun family; Mr. Ochuko Jeroh, the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun, for himself and on behalf of Ovuokporho/Okporho gate of the Ekrekun family; and Mr. Jonathan Arutare for himself and on behalf of Umurhieri of the Ekrekun family as claimants.
The defendants, in their alleged bid to cover up the illegal sales of Oria land owned by Ekrekun Community, bribed some of their cohorts who recently announced that the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekun Quarter had been removed.
However, the Orhuwhorun Community has faulted the unconstitutional attempt to remove the Oghwuvwie in order to cover up the illegal sales of Ekrekun Community land, which the Oghwuvwie strongly opposed.
In a letter dated 17th December 2025 and signed by the President General and Secretary General of Orhuwhorun Community, Engr. John Uviejitobor and Comrade Power Emuejevwe respectively, addressed to the Junior Youth Chairman of Ekrekun Quarter, a directive was issued for the immediate reversal of the purported announcement.
The letter stated that the action breaches Page 14, Section 17 and Page 39, Section 69 of the Orhuwhorun Community Development Union’s Constitution, 2024 (as amended).
According to the letter: “We write to bring to your notice that the Orhuwhorun President General and the other members of the Central Executive Council are aware of the public announcement of the purported suspension of the Oghwuvwie of Ekrekrun Community, who is the Senior Youth Chairman of Ekrekrun Community ‘Mr. Jero Ochuko’, made on 15th December 2025 by the Junior Youth Chairman and some Elders and Chiefs of Ekrekrun Community.
“The President General of Orhuwhorun Town and the entire Central Executive Council (CEC) completely condemn this act perpetrated by the Ekrekrun Community Junior Youth Chairman, Kingsley Odjugho, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, and 10 others.
“As a result of the constitutional breach by the Junior Youth Chairman of the Community, Mr. Kingsley Odjugho, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, and 10 others should return to the Ekrekrun Community within 24 hours of receiving this letter to reverse the initial public announcement of suspension and let the status quo remain pending the resolution of the alleged crisis.
This action breaches Page 14, Section 17 and Page 39, Section 69 of the Orhuwhorun Development Union (ODU) Constitution 2024.
“Hence, the reversal of the suspension announcement within 24 hours is irrevocable, or all participants in this action will be forced to face legal action for breaching the Constitution of Orhuwhorun Development Union 2024”, it added.
DAILY SHINE NEWS can authoritatively report that papers related to the reply process for the suit against the alleged land grabbers are being taken to some elders with promises of ‘sign and collect N100,000.’
It was gathered that some elders with integrity rejected the offer on the grounds that they cannot mortgage the future of their children, but some, allegedly out of hunger, accepted the N100,000 largesse.
As it stands, tension is high as the leadership of Orhuwhorun town, led by Engr. John Uviejitobor prepares to take legal action against Mr. Kingsley Odjugho,
the Junior Youth Chairman of Ekrekun Community, Hon. Thankgod Agolokigho, a serving councilor in Udu Local Government Council, and 10 others.
