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Delta at 34: Let’s Build a Greater, Prosperous State Together, Oborevwori Urges Deltans

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By Sunday Apah

As Delta State observed its 34th anniversary, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged residents to stay united, peaceful, and dedicated to forging a brighter and more prosperous future for the state.

Speaking during a special thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel in Asaba, the governor expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, mercy, and faithfulness since Delta’s creation on August 27, 1991.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Oborevwori described the anniversary as both a tradition and a pledge of gratitude for 34 years of resilience, progress, and unity.

He paid tribute to Delta’s founding fathers, past leaders, civil servants, and citizens whose sacrifices helped shape Delta into what he called “a symbol of diversity, academic excellence, and human capital development.”

“Unity is the foundation of our progress, and our diversity is our greatest strength. I urge all Deltans to continue fostering peace, fairness, and brotherhood,” the governor stated.

In outlining his administration’s achievements under the MORE Agenda, now in its second year, Oborevwori noted the completion of several inherited road and bridge projects and the launch of landmark infrastructure, including flyovers at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, DSC Roundabout, Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, and Uromi Junction in Agbor.

For riverine communities, he said projects such as the Ayakoromo Bridge and the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Kokodiagbene road were being prioritized to boost the blue economy, improve connectivity, and create jobs.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment through scholarships, skills training, and entrepreneurship support, while also increasing investment in healthcare and education. Primary health care centers are being upgraded with modern equipment, and free medical services for pregnant women and children under five continue. He also noted ongoing efforts to strengthen artisanal and vocational institutions to bolster human capital development.

“Thanksgiving unlocks divine blessings. As we celebrate 34 years of Delta, we dedicate our future to God, trusting Him for prosperity, peace, and progress,” Oborevwori quoted from Psalm 107:1.

He thanked his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly; his cabinet; the judiciary; civil servants; and the people of Delta for their trust and support, stressing that the mandate given to him in 2023 remains the strongest motivation to deliver more.

In his sermon titled “Forget Not All His Benefits,” the Chaplain of Government House Asaba, Venerable Charles Osemenam, reminded Deltans of the peace, development, and purposeful leadership Delta has enjoyed since its creation. He urged sustained support and prayers for Governor Oborevwori.

Venerable Osemenam also described Delta as a home of sports, education, infrastructure, oil exploration, and other blessings, urging citizens to remain stakeholders in the state’s Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.

The thanksgiving service was attended by top government officials, political leaders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil servants, and other dignitaries who joined in prayers for Delta State’s peace and progress.

Governor Oborevwori Celebrates 34th Anniversary of Delta State, Promises a Bright Future

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By Sunday Apah

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Delta on the state’s 34th anniversary, pledging a promising future under his leadership.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Asaba, through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori reflected on the 34 years since Delta State’s creation as a testament to resilience, unity, and progress, despite numerous challenges.

He acknowledged the efforts of previous leaders, traditional authorities, community heads, and the populace for their roles in the state’s advancement, emphasizing that their dedication has sustained unity and fostered peace and prosperity in Delta.

“On this momentous occasion marking 34 years of our cherished Delta State, I celebrate each Deltan, both at home and abroad. We have much to be proud of as a community united by love, diversity, and a shared commitment to progress,” he stated.

Governor Oborevwori reiterated that his administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda—focusing on Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security—aims to build upon previous milestones while opening new avenues for growth across various sectors.

“Our citizens can be assured that brighter days are on the horizon. We are dedicated to strengthening institutions, enhancing infrastructure, fostering business, empowering women and youth, and ensuring sustainable development that reaches every corner of Delta State,” he asserted.

He encouraged the public to remain optimistic, peaceful, and supportive of government initiatives, stressing the importance of collective effort for the state’s success.

The Governor also called for unity and prayers as Delta prepares to enter what he described as “a new era of development.”

Delta State was established on August 27, 1991, during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.

Suspected Assassins Storm Bomadi Council Chairman’s Residence, Kill Policeman

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By Sunday Apah

Suspected assassins stormed the residence of Bomadi Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, on Monday, and killed a police officer attached to him.

The fallen officer was Inspector O. O. Ojonogba of PMF 51, popularly known as “Ade.”

He was shot early Monday as the attackers stormed the council chairman’s residence.

Inspector Ojonogba, who was on duty, was reportedly asleep in the lounge when they shot him in the neck.

At the time of the attack, the chairman was reportedly away on official duties in Asaba, leaving behind his children with the late officer.

Confirming the incident, the chairman’s Special Assistant on Security, Mr. Obasanjo Zuokumor, told journalists: “Around 3–4 a.m., armed robbers entered the council chairman’s compound after breaking through the generator powerhouse while it was on.

“On the day of the incident, the chairman went with three other security personnel, leaving behind the late police officer and his children.

After gaining entry, they proceeded to the security personnel’s room—the officer identified as Insp. O. O. Ojonogba, attached to PMF 51—who was sleeping, and shot him in the neck.

“After that, they moved to the back of the main house, dismantled one of the burglary protectors, and entered through the dining area toward the children’s room.

In the children’s room, they demanded money and jewelry of the mother, firing shots at the ceiling and the wall thinking that the council chairman might have his himself in the ceiling.

They took all the phones, two iPads, and a laptop, but continued the search for more gadgets and, unfortunately, did not find any.”

The armed men reportedly fled the scene, leaving residents in shock.

When contacted for comments, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Edafe Bright did not respond to calls or messages on WhatsApp at press time.

 

News Source – The Trumpet

Why FG Should Revive Delta Ports – Oborevwori

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By Sunday Apah

On Monday, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori called on the Federal Government to focus on revitalizing the Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu ports, emphasizing his administration’s willingness to cooperate with the federal authorities on this initiative.

While meeting with the Board of Directors of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), led by Chairman Prince Senator Adedayo Adeleye, the governor expressed that renewing these seaports would significantly enhance Delta’s potential as a key maritime center in Nigeria.

Oborevwori argued that revitalizing these ports would generate employment opportunities, draw in investments, and increase national revenue. “Delta State is fortunate to have four ports.

Revitalizing them could lead to substantial job creation, stimulate trade, and bolster the economies of both Delta and Nigeria. It is more beneficial to upgrade existing ports than to construct new ones,” he stated.

He praised the NPA for their modernization initiatives but stressed the urgent need to dredge the Warri Channel and improve the facilities at Warri and Koko ports, urging that these actions should be prioritized at the national level.

The governor highlighted that Delta is working in close partnership with the Federal Government to address pressing infrastructural issues. “These collaborations are already producing results. The Federal Government has awarded the Summit Junction–Bridge Head section of the Benin-Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company, while our state has contracted a section of the Sapele–Warri Road project to CCECC for N35 billion. This reflects the strong relationship between the state and federal governments,” he explained.

Assuring potential investors of enhanced security in the state, Oborevwori noted that oil installations were no longer frequently targeted and that the business environment had become peaceful. He also mentioned that Delta has instituted a law to combat illegal levies and protect companies from harassment to further safeguard investments.

He urged businesses operating in Delta to uphold their agreements with local communities, as engaging local populations is vital for maintaining peaceful coexistence.

Highlighting ongoing infrastructure developments, Oborevwori announced that Julius Berger is back in the state after several years, working on significant flyover projects at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, and the DSC Roundabout, among others.

“Delta State welcomes investment, is prepared for partnerships, and is committed to establishing itself as Nigeria’s foremost maritime and economic hub,” he affirmed.

Earlier, Senator Adeleye expressed the NPA Board’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Delta State Government to revive the state’s ports and maximize their contribution to Nigeria’s maritime economy.

He acknowledged that Delta’s ports—Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu—are vital gateways that, if fully utilized, would enhance trade, generate employment, and foster economic advancement.

Adeleye noted that the NPA Board, which was inaugurated in June by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, is undertaking a nationwide inspection of ports to identify challenges directly before implementing solutions.

He commended the Delta State Government for its support in securing the ports, emphasizing that safety is essential for sustainable operations.

Additionally, he pointed out issues such as underutilization, deteriorating quays, shallow drafts, and the necessity for a deep-sea port to attract global shipping traffic.

“Currently, Delta ports account for approximately 10.7 percent of national trade volumes, which is commendable, but there is significant room for improvement. With enhanced collaboration, we can restore the vitality of these ports and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime trade,” he concluded.

The NPA delegation also recognized the Delta State Government’s efforts in nurturing positive relationships with host communities and implementing corporate social responsibility initiatives to maintain peace.

Police Arrest 12 Suspected Robbers in Delta, Edo States

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…Recover Vehicles, Motorcycles, Phones, Ladder, Others Items

By Sunday Apah

The police have arrested eleven suspected robbers who specialize in robbing and defrauding their victims of their valuables from different parts of Delta and Edo States.

The police, in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, stated that the suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence from the operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team between the 11th and 16th of August 2025.

He noted in the statement that the arrested robbers/fraudsters specialized in robbing and defrauding unsuspecting victims of their valuable items such as phones, motorcycles, jewelry, and looting their victims’ bank accounts.

According to the statement, “The suspects act in the guise of asking for directions and then hypnotize their victims before extorting and defrauding them.”

“The suspects are Ibrukoko (m) aged 32 years, a native of Ovu community, Ethiope East LGA; Obruche actor (m) aged 31 years, a native of Emede community in Isoko South LGA; Lucky Umukoro (m) aged 28 years, a native of Eku community in Ethiope East LGA.”

“Emmanuel Buruutu is aged 22 years, a native of the Agbarho community, Ughelli North LGA; Musa Abdulahi (m) aged 27 years, a native of Kafancha in Jamma’a LGA of Kaduna State.”

“Sokoh (m) aged 30 years of Ovwian community in Udu LGA; Preye Julius (m) aged 36 years; and Kadija Abass aged 30 years of Gidama community, Ilela LGA, Sokoto State.”

“The suspects operate in Warri, Ughelli, and other areas in Delta and Edo states. Exhibits recovered from them include two Toyota Camrys with registration numbers LND-809-HE and KSF-61-JU, and sixteen suspected stolen iPhones.”

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects have so far defrauded their victims of over twenty-three million, five hundred thousand naira (N23,500,000), the iPhones stolen by the suspects are about forty-two, and the number of victims defrauded so far is twelve.”

Additionally, the DPO of Ekpan police, upon receiving numerous complaints about stolen ladders, noted that the suspects would come in the guise of being customers and never return with the ladders they hired.

“The DPO, on the 12th of August, 2025, detailed operatives who embarked on an intelligence-led investigation and arrested one Esquire Stanley.”

“The suspect stated that he sold the ladders for twenty thousand naira each, for ladders that normally sell for two hundred and fifty thousand naira (N250,000).”

“Three other victims have also identified the suspects. Further investigation led to the arrest of the receivers, namely Chinedu Okorie (m), Orgi Abara (m), Philip Augustine (m), and Obone Jevwe (m). In total, eleven suspected stolen ladders were recovered,” it added.

Renewed Crisis in Warri: Oborevwori Urges Peace Among Stakeholders

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for calm and restraint amid reports of rising tensions between the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in the Warri South Local Government Area.

In a statement released on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor urged residents and stakeholders in the oil town to refrain from actions that could threaten the ongoing peace and stability in the region.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure in Warri, emphasizing that maintaining peace is essential for realizing the city’s significant economic potential and supporting current development initiatives.

“We urge all stakeholders to back our efforts to enhance infrastructure in Warri and to avoid any actions that could disrupt the peace in this resource-rich city,” the governor stated.

Governor Oborevwori also called on community leaders, youth organizations, and influential figures to collaborate in promoting understanding, unity, and peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic groups in the area.

He highlighted his administration’s dedication to fostering inclusive governance and equitable development throughout the state and assured that security personnel are present to uphold peace and order.

Kwode Congratulates Oghara Poly Rector on His Birthday

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By Sunday Apah

Deacon Matthew Kwode, the Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Political Matters, has extended warm birthday wishes to the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Olorogun Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, on the occasion of his birthday, today August 23, 2025.

In his congratulatory message, Kwode commended Prof. Ufuophu-Biri for his dedication and outstanding contributions to the development of education in Delta State.

He noted that the rector’s vision and commitment to improving the academic environment have positively impacted the lives of students and faculty alike, further positioning Delta State Polytechnic as a leading institution in technical and higher education.

Kwode highlighted the challenges faced by educational leaders and praised Ufuophu-Biri’s ability to navigate these difficulties with a progressive approach.

He remarked on the importance of fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration among educators and students, which Ufuophu-Biri has successfully championed as rector.

The Executive Assistant also expressed his appreciation for the rector’s role in promoting vocational training and skill acquisition programs at the polytechnic.

Such initiatives are crucial in equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive job market and contribute meaningfully to society.

Kwode stressed that these efforts align with the state government’s goals of enhancing youth empowerment and economic development.

Kwode wished Prof. Ufuophu-Biri not only a joyful birthday but also continued success in his role as rector.

He encouraged the academic leader to sustain his efforts in transforming Delta State Polytechnic into a model institution that prioritizes excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

Urhobos Deserve Equal Status in Nigeria – Dafinone

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By Sunday Apah

Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents the Delta Central Senatorial District, has stated that the Urhobo ethnic group should no longer view itself as second-class citizens in Nigeria.

He emphasized the responsibility of those in power to uplift their own communities.

During a media interaction with the Ughelli Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Thursday at the Chapel’s Secretariat in Ughelli, Delta State, Senator Dafinone urged Urhobo leaders to take a proactive stance in favoring their people regarding employment and appointments, just as leaders from other regions do.

“We are not second-class citizens in this nation. When a director-general or managing director from another region is hiring 100 individuals, they typically select 90 from their locality. An Urhobo individual should not hesitate to employ 50 if given a similar opportunity,” Dafinone remarked.

The senator shared that upon assuming office, he initially focused on selecting only highly qualified candidates for jobs and contracts. However, he later recognized that many successful applicants were not necessarily more qualified; rather, they succeeded due to their persistence and connections.

“At the beginning, I was meticulous about qualifications, often telling applicants, ‘You’re not qualified for this job.’ Eventually, I realized that the person who secured the position often lacked qualifications too.

They worked hard and got it. Now, I encourage our people to pursue their ambitions as well. Not everyone will succeed, but some will, and that’s a risk worth taking,” he explained.

Dafinone indicated that Urhobos in Abuja have established a robust support network aimed at helping community members find jobs, contracts, and government positions.

“We have developed a network of Urhobo individuals in various offices in Abuja. When I provide their names and contacts, just mention that I referred you, and the process that would typically take a week could be completed in two hours,” the senator noted.

He stressed that his objective is not to seek personal accolades or claim leadership but to foster a sense of unity and progress among the Urhobo people.

“The Senate seat for Delta Central does not belong to me; it belongs to my community. The more I empower others through my office, the closer we come to addressing our youth’s challenges. It should not just center around me as an individual, but rather on all of us,” he added.

Dafinone also urged Urhobos in influential positions across the nation to make conscious efforts to hire at least two or three individuals from their ethnic group each year. He stressed that such consistent efforts could significantly reduce youth unemployment in Urhoboland.

“In the past, Urhobo managers would seek assistance from colleagues in other regions for recruitment, as if they lacked contacts among their own.

“This mentality must change. If every Urhobo in a position of power employs even two or three people yearly, we can make significant strides in tackling youth unemployment,” Dafinone pointed out.

He mentioned that during discussions with Urhobo stakeholders, he was encouraged to create a WhatsApp group or similar platform to promote the agenda.

However, he declined the suggestion to avoid misunderstandings that might suggest he was competing with the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) or trying to assert personal authority. Instead, he has continued to empower representatives from various gatherings to spread the message of Urhobo unity and empowerment.

“Whenever I meet with a group of 20 or 30 Urhobo individuals, I urge them to conduct their meetings, share information, and involve others. This way, it becomes a collective effort rather than just my mission. If I remain the sole link to influential figures, it diminishes our overall impact. However, if all of us champion Urhobo advancement, the outcome will be much more substantial,” he emphasized.

In closing, Senator Dafinone reaffirmed his commitment to keeping his doors open to the people of Delta Central and vowed to leverage his office to empower as many Urhobos as possible.

Earlier, Comrade Sunday Apah, Chairman of the Ughelli Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ, praised the senator for his initiative in updating the union on his Senate achievements.

He assured the union’s dedication to collaborating closely with the senator’s office to promote his work and initiatives.

Iwere Kingdom Celebrates as Federal Government Opens Renewed Hope Mother, Child Hospital

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By Sunday Apah

The federal government officially inaugurated an 80-bed, fully equipped Mother and Child Specialist Hospital yesterday, aiming to meet the healthcare needs of the Ugbuwangue community in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.

The commissioning event coincided with the fourth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, and was held in the Ugbuwangue community within Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.

The ceremony attracted many distinguished Itsekiri sons and daughters, both locally and from abroad.

During the event, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, emphasized that the establishment of the Renewed Hope Mother and Child Hospital is a clear demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the country.

He highlighted that the hospital is a state-of-the-art facility featuring modern medical equipment and residential quarters for healthcare staff.

Governor Oborevwori stressed that a functioning healthcare system is essential for sustainable development, asserting that the inauguration of this hospital is a significant step toward fulfilling President Tinubu’s vision of Renewed Hope for citizens’ quality of life.

“This 80-bed medical facility, equipped with advanced technology and residential accommodations for medical professionals, represents a powerful commitment by the federal government to ensure quality healthcare reaches everyone, especially underserved communities,” he stated.

He continued, “By investing in healthcare, we are investing in the future of Delta, promoting a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous state.”

Represented by Prince Johnson Erijo, Chief of Staff at the Government House in Asaba, the governor noted that the hospital would address the critical health needs of Ugbuwangue and neighboring communities.

He urged residents to take care of the facility to ensure its longevity and expressed gratitude to the federal government, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and all contributors to the project.

Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the Federal Government on SDGs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to vulnerable populations, marking this inauguration as a step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in terms of health and well-being.

She expressed her appreciation for the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in enhancing citizens’ quality of life.

Additionally, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, represented by Chief Brown Mene, expressed that the hospital is vital for the health of mothers and children.

The monarch urged the community to safeguard the project, highlighting that its sustainable maintenance is crucial for improving overall community health.

He also acknowledged all contributors, including the late 20th Olu of Warri, Ikenwoli, the federal government, and former Lagos State Deputy Governor Orelope.

In his address, Comrade Isaac Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Chairman of the Warri South Local Government Area, remarked that the hospital will significantly lower the high mortality rates prevalent in the community, particularly in children’s healthcare.

He extended his gratitude to the federal government, the SSA to the President on SDGs, Governor Oborevwori, and the Olu of Warri for making the project a reality.

Dr. Mary Alile Idele, Board Chairman of FMC Asaba, described the project as a landmark achievement in enhancing healthcare in Warri and thanked all parties involved in bringing it to fruition.

The newly commissioned 80-bed facility includes operating theatres, private and general wards, consultation rooms, laboratories, recovery rooms, emergency services equipped with advanced technology, an ultrasound machine, and a vacuum extractor.

The inauguration ceremony also included celebratory activities marking the fourth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, featuring an Itsekiri Language Competition for children and novelty matches between male and female teams, showcasing prominent former Super Eagles players like Kanu Nwankwo, Victor Ikpeba, and Austin Eguavoen, among others, at the Olu’s palace main field.

Olu of Warri Introduces ₦750 Million Iwere Trust Fund to Promote Local Advancement

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By Sunday Apah

The fourth anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, culminated in a significant announcement on Thursday with the launch of the Iwere Trust Fund (ITF).

This ambitious initiative aims to accelerate the socio-economic development of the Itsekiri people and their ancestral land.

During the unveiling ceremony at his Aghofen Palace in Warri, Delta State, attended by thousands of Itsekiri individuals, community leaders, and supporters, the esteemed monarch emphasized that the progress of the Itsekiri community must be driven by its own members.

Setting an exemplary standard, Ogiame Atuwatse III, who will take on the role of Chairman for the Fund, announced a personal contribution of ₦750 million, framing it as “leadership by example.”

“The Itsekiri people are the key to their own development and that of their homeland. I am planting the seed of my commitment with ₦750 million, and I call on every well-meaning Itsekiri person across the globe to join me in nurturing this collective initiative,” the Olu stated amid enthusiastic applause.

He clarified that the Fund would act as a resource mobilization platform to execute significant projects that will directly enhance Itsekiri communities, aligning with his vision of transforming promises into actionable results.

Analysts suggest that the establishment of the ITF is more than just a symbolic act; it represents a pivotal moment in the monarch’s reign, distinguishing him as a ruler committed to impactful action.

Many view this announcement as a fitting highlight of the fourth anniversary festivities, serving as both a beacon of hope and a call for self-sustaining development.

The announcement inspired rapturous cheers, with the palace resonating with chants of “Oba-oke, Oba-omi, Ogiame Suoooii!” as the Itsekiri people celebrated yet another achievement under their visionary king.

With the inauguration of the Iwere Trust Fund, Ogiame Atuwatse III has once again emphasized his commitment to fostering a thriving Itsekiri community grounded in unity, accountability, and local development.

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