By Sunday Apah

The Federal Government has announced that Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, will be observed as public holidays in celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, acting on behalf of the government.

In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, the Minister conveyed his warm felicitations to the Muslim community on the successful completion of the fasting period.

Tunji-Ojo encouraged Muslims to continue embodying the values of love, charity, peace, tolerance, and self-sacrifice that were reinforced throughout Ramadan.

He further called on all Nigerians to seize the occasion to offer prayers for the nation’s sustained peace, unity, and economic well-being.

While extending his wishes for a happy Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the Minister urged the public to mark the festivities responsibly and to show compassion toward those in need.

The statement also reaffirmed that “the Federal Government is dedicated to promoting national cohesion and peaceful coexistence across all segments of Nigerian society.”

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday stated that his administration is actively reshaping the development narrative of the state’s riverine communities by prioritizing substantial infrastructure investments and citizen‑centered projects.

The Governor spoke during the official commissioning of the reconstructed 31‑kilometer Ohoror–Bomadi Road, a vital artery connecting Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Burutu, and Bomadi Local Government Areas.

Oborevwori described the road as a landmark achievement in the government’s pursuit of balanced development, particularly for long‑neglected riverine regions.

“We are determined to change the story of our riverine communities. This administration is dedicated to extending sustainable progress to every corner of Delta State, irrespective of geographical challenges,” he stated.

He emphasized that the new road would stimulate socio‑economic growth by enhancing connectivity, supporting commerce, and improving access to essential services for residents.

The Governor added that the project would benefit at least five local government areas, creating new economic avenues and considerably shortening travel durations.

Oborevwori reiterated that infrastructure remains a cornerstone of economic advancement, adding that better road networks would link agricultural producers to markets, encourage private investment, and foster stronger rural‑urban ties.

Outlining the project’s specifics, the Governor noted that construction involved specialized engineering approaches suited to the swampy environment—including sand filling, soil stabilization, concrete reinforcement, embankment protection, and asphalt paving.

The road varies in width from 6.5 to 10.3 meters, with hardened shoulders in several segments.

He also pointed to other ongoing and completed initiatives across the state—such as roads, bridges, and education facilities—reaffirming his government’s dedication to the “MORE Agenda,” which emphasizes equity, justice, and fairness.

Oborevwori further disclosed that the State Executive Council recently endorsed projects valued at over ₦400 billion spanning key sectors: infrastructure, health, education, power, judiciary, and security.

Regarding electricity, the Governor explained that reforms and infrastructure improvements—such as extending transmission lines and installing transformers—are underway to tackle power shortages. Several communities that had been without grid electricity for more than ten years have now been reconnected, boosting living standards and local economies.

On security, Oborevwori revealed plans to establish police divisions in all 25 local government areas under the proposed State Police framework, along with a Special Protection Base to enhance public safety.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, highlighted that the 31‑kilometer roadway cuts across multiple communities and incorporates modern engineering techniques to guarantee longevity in challenging terrain.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, thanked the Governor for what he termed a historic project, noting that the area had not seen an undertaking of this scale in more than 16 years.

He said the road would reduce accidents, uplift livelihoods, and ease the transit of people and goods.

Community leaders and stakeholders—including Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Senator James Manager, Hon. Oboro Preyor, HRM Pere Luke Kalalanama (First Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council), and Mrs. Flora Brisibo—applauded the Governor for his inclusive leadership and development focus.

They assured Oborevwori and President Bola Tinubu of their steadfast support and strong electoral backing in the 2027 polls.

The leaders observed that the road’s completion has already brought relief to residents, many of whom previously endured economic strain due to inadequate access and high transport expenses.

The ceremony attracted a broad gathering of citizens, political figures, and traditional rulers, underscoring widespread approval of the project and its anticipated benefits for the area.

By Sunday Apah

The Warri Urban Security Network (WUSN) has issued a warning against the circulation of false information regarding the ongoing dispute between the family of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi—former Minister of Education—and tenants of the Robinson Plaza on Deco Road in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.

The group specifically called on activist Zik Gbemre and others to cease spreading inaccuracies that could threaten public peace.

The disagreement stems from unresolved issues concerning rent payments and outstanding utility bills. The protracted situation has led to multiple petitions to various police units in the area, with the matter eventually elevated to the State Police Headquarters in Asaba. It is also under litigation in several courts within Warri and its environs.

In a press statement released yesterday, WUSN expressed concern over the role of external parties, particularly activist Zik Gbemre, whom they accused of exploiting the situation for personal gain.

The security body clarified that contrary to widespread claims, the matter of the correct bank account for rent payments has been resolved. Tenants have been instructed to continue using the original account, and many have already complied.

According to the statement, the remaining issues involve utility arrears, including water, security, sewage, parking, and electricity (NEPA).

Tenants who have settled these dues have had their shops reopened. WUSN encouraged those whose shops remain closed to clear their outstanding bills to regain access.

The statement, jointly signed by Chairman Chief Frank Adagbabiri and Secretary Barrister Chinedu Ejiofor, read in part:
“Our attention has been drawn to recent publications by activist Zik Gbemre, who has interfered in the Gbagi family’s affairs in an attempt to profit from the situation. We are particularly dismayed by his efforts on social media to tarnish the reputation of D.C.P. Alani Adegoke of the Delta State Police Command, who has handled this matter with professionalism.”

It further noted: “We have verified that the core issues between the Gbagi family and the tenants have been resolved. Compliant tenants have resumed business, while only a few who have yet to settle utility bills remain unable to access their shops.”

WUSN also commended Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, son of the late patriarch, for his competent management of his father’s estate.

The group highlighted ongoing projects, including a new plaza in Ugbolokoso, maintained facilities at Deco Road and P.T.I. Junction with upgraded power supply, expanded educational institutions, and improved service delivery at family-owned filling stations and banks.

Regarding rumors of an eldest son born outside wedlock, WUSN clarified that the individual in question has no familial ties to the Gbagi family, citing that the person previously contested elections under a different surname.

The organization urged the public to disregard false narratives about the Gbagi family, affirming that the family remains united in preserving and advancing the legacy of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi.

By Sunday Apah

Olorogun Dr. Eunice Daji Okoh, a House of Representatives aspirant for the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency in Delta State, has promised to deliver superior legislative representation if elected.

The aspirant made this commitment during a consultative visit to the Ughievwen Kingdom’s traditional council, signaling the start of her engagement with key stakeholders in the constituency.

The visit, which took place on Thursday, March 12, 2026, saw Okoh paying homage to HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, alongside the Council of Chiefs of the realm.

Addressing the monarch and his council, Okoh articulated her vision for the constituency, emphasizing her determination to secure victory in the forthcoming election.

She expressed a clear resolve to not only contest but to win the race, highlighting her preparedness to address the pressing needs of the people through effective and responsive representation at the national level.

According to the aspirant, her mission is rooted in a deep-seated desire to uplift the constituency by leveraging legislative opportunities to attract development, advocate for equitable resource allocation, and champion policies that improve livelihoods.

She stressed that her candidacy is driven by a commitment to bridge existing gaps in representation and foster a more inclusive and progressive federal constituency.

In his gracious response, HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi offered prayers for Okoh’s success in her political endeavour.

The monarch, while acknowledging her aspirations, emphasized the importance of leadership that prioritizes the welfare and development of the people.

By Sunday Apah

The Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Political Matters, Deacon Matthew Kwode, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the recent approval of several key road construction projects in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The approved projects include the internal roads in Okwagbe, Imode Road, and the ECN-Ughievwen-Udu Road.

Kwode, in a detailed statement issued on Sunday, described the governor’s approval as a timely and transformative intervention for the communities.

He emphasized that the move directly aligns with Governor Oborevwori’s “MORE Agenda,” which prioritizes meaningful development and strategic infrastructure to enhance the livelihoods of Deltans.

“The approval of these critical roads by His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is not just a promise fulfilled but a demonstration of his unwavering commitment to even development across all parts of Delta State,” Kwode stated.

He highlighted that the poor state of the roads had long hampered economic activities, mobility, and social interaction for residents in the affected areas.

The Executive Assistant specifically noted that the construction of the Okwagbe internal roads would revitalize the bustling riverine community, known for its commerce and fishing activities.

Improved accessibility, he argued, would boost local markets, reduce the cost of transportation for goods and people, and significantly improve the overall quality of life for inhabitants.

Regarding the Imode and ECN-Ughievwen-Udu roads, Kwode pointed out that these projects are crucial for connecting several agrarian and residential communities.

He stated that the upgrades would facilitate the easier movement of farm produce to urban centers, thereby increasing farmers’ income and ensuring food security, while also easing the daily commute for thousands of residents.

Kwode further used the opportunity to call on the benefiting communities to embrace the projects with a sense of ownership.

He urged residents to cooperate fully with the contractors, provide a secure and enabling environment for the work, and protect the government’s infrastructure investments from vandalism upon completion.

Deacon Matthew Kwode expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his responsive leadership and keen attention to the infrastructural needs of Ughelli South.

He expressed confidence that these projects, once completed, would stand as enduring testaments to the administration’s dedication to tangible, people-focused development across Delta State.