By Sunday Apah

In a resounding show of support, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the party’s exclusive candidates for the upcoming 2027 general elections.

This noteworthy decision was made during an APC Stakeholders Meeting held at the State Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, attracting a significant turnout of party leaders, lawmakers, commissioners, and local government officials from across Delta’s three senatorial districts.

The confidence motion was spearheaded by Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and was enthusiastically seconded by Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly. Keyamo commended President Tinubu’s decisive reforms and visionary governance, specifically praising the removal of the fuel subsidy as a pivotal policy that has redirected billions into essential national infrastructure.

“Just two days ago, Mr. President approved $1 billion for the revitalization of Warri port, among other vital projects, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road and the redevelopment of Lagos Airport. These are tangible results stemming from the financial savings achieved through subsidy removal. The President has proven himself to be a prudent steward and an insightful leader,” Keyamo stated.

He further lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his forward-thinking leadership and the remarkable infrastructural enhancements underway in Delta State. Following this, he put forth a motion calling for the Delta APC to express a vote of confidence in both leaders and to adopt them as the party’s official candidates for the 2027 elections.

The motion received unanimous support, with Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei praising the inclusive governance models employed by both Tinubu and Oborevwori, emphasizing their significant developmental impact in Nigeria and Delta State respectively. He remarked, “The people of Delta State and the South-South region stand firmly behind President Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for their vision for a revitalized Nigeria and Delta State.”

Responding to the endorsement, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed heartfelt thanks to the stakeholders for their faith in him and in President Tinubu, promising to remain committed to realizing his development agenda for Delta State.

“I appreciate the confidence shown in us as the sole candidates for the 2027 elections. The APC is becoming increasingly robust, as more governors are expected to join our ranks by the end of November,” he declared.

He extolled President Tinubu’s leadership style, characterizing him as “a man who rewards loyalty, dedication, and tangible results.”

“Our votes will serve as our report card in 2027. Those who genuinely support the President must express that through the ballot. In the last election, I secured victories in 21 out of 25 local governments due to our hard work and loyalty. True commitment is what matters,” Oborevwori affirmed.

The Governor cautioned against disloyal behavior within the party, highlighting that some members who did not support the APC in previous elections had unfairly benefited. “We are aware of those who did not contribute to the APC’s success but are currently in power. When the time is right, we will reveal their disloyalty. This time, loyalty will be justly rewarded, while hypocrisy will be shown no favor,” he declared.

He emphasized the need for unity and collective decision-making, urging leaders to prioritize the party’s interests over personal ambitions. The Governor also spotlighted ongoing infrastructural projects across Delta State, including the ₦59 billion Uromi Junction flyover and the ₦39 billion Ughelli flyover, along with the impending groundbreaking of the Warri/Sapele Road rehabilitation project.

“This state is unique in that our contractors are not owed; we provide 40% mobilization upfront. Our successful management of resources reflects the efficacy of the President’s reforms,” Oborevwori noted.

Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, expressed his contentment with the gathering, calling the mass defection on April 28, 2025, a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. “Joining the APC was undoubtedly the right choice. The party is now stronger, more unified, and poised for success in 2027,” Okowa stated.

He commended President Tinubu’s economic policies as “bold and essential,” urging leaders to help their constituents understand the long-term benefits of the ongoing reforms. Okowa also congratulated Governor Oborevwori for successfully uniting the party, crediting his humility and inclusive leadership for strengthening APC’s presence across all senatorial districts.

During his welcome address, APC State Chairman Elder Omeni Sobotie declared that Governor Oborevwori’s performance has rendered the party “formidable and unstoppable,” noting that anyone attempting to challenge the Governor would encounter significant resistance.

Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Chairman of APC Delta Central, affirmed that April 28 marked a significant turning point where “vision coincided with action,” pledging unwavering unity and focus on future victories.

From Delta North, Chief Adizue Eluaka, and from Delta South, Austin Oribioye both echoed sentiments of newfound unity within the APC, stating their commitment to winning all upcoming elections.

Representatives from the National Assembly, Senators Ede Dafinone, Ned Nwoko, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, and Hon. Nicholas Mutu collectively asserted that “there is no vacancy until 2031,” pledging to work diligently for the benefit of their constituents and the party.

Prominent leaders, including Olorogun O’tega Emerhor (Delta Central), Senator Peter Nwaoboshi (Delta North), and Senator James Manager (Delta South), collectively affirmed their support for Governor Oborevwori, declaring that there would be “no opposition” against him in 2027 and vowing strong electoral backing for both him and the President.

Hon. Dagidi Andaye, representing ALGON and Bomadi Council Chairman, assured that all council chairmen are fully dedicated to achieving victory for the party in 2027.

Former National Women Leader Hon. Stella Okotete called for an increase in women’s representation in the party, emphasizing that women make up over 51 percent of the voting electorate.

Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, assured full support from all Assembly members for both the Governor and the President, promising continued delivery of democratic benefits.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of celebration, solidarity, and a renewed confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, setting the stage for the upcoming electoral battle.

By Sunday Apah

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State is mourning the profound loss of Chief Andrew Chukwu Okocha, the illustrious Chairman and CEO of the A.C. Okocha Group of Companies, who passed away at the age of 78.

Chief Okocha’s departure marks the end of an era for the business community in Nigeria and leaves an indelible void in the hearts of those who knew him.

In an emotional statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the Okocha family and the people of Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area.

The governor articulated the collective grief shared by the community, emphasizing the significant impact of Okocha’s life and work.

Governor Oborevwori hailed Chief Okocha as a groundbreaking industrialist whose visionary leadership propelled the economic landscape of Delta State and Nigeria into new heights. “His contributions were not just significant; they were transformative, leaving a legacy that will be etched in history for generations to come,” he stated.

The governor reminisced about Okocha’s influential role within the private sector: “Chief Andrew

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) met on Thursday and approved the payment of ₦10 billion to address pension obligations passed down from earlier administrations.

The meeting, led by Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme at Government House in Asaba, followed the directive of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who was attending an official function outside the state.

During a press briefing after the meeting, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, accompanied by his colleagues in Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen; Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele; and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, reported that the EXCO reviewed various significant memos that addressed social investment, infrastructure, and governance reforms.

Aniagwu noted that the ₦10 billion allocation fulfills Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to alleviate the financial strain faced by pensioners and to settle inherited pension debts.

“At today’s session, we sanctioned the release of ₦10 billion to initiate the payment of pension arrears. A committee has been formed to ensure that the funds reach the eligible recipients fairly and without external influence,” Aniagwu stated.

He underscored that this action is part of the administration’s larger initiative aimed at enhancing the welfare of citizens under the MORE Agenda and improving living conditions for senior citizens who have served the state with dedication.

Additionally, Aniagwu shared that the EXCO assessed the timelines for critical infrastructure projects, focusing on two significant flyovers in Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction) that are being constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

He explained, “The timeline for the Agbor flyover has been adjusted from 24 months to 18 months, while the Ughelli flyover’s duration has been shortened from 24 months to 14 months.

“These modifications aim to expedite project completion, enhancing transportation and stimulating economic activity.”

Aniagwu also mentioned that the council reviewed the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) presented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, as part of preparations for the upcoming 2026 budget, which will be submitted to the Delta State House of Assembly soon.

He announced that EXCO terminated several ineffective contracts statewide to promote efficient project execution and ensure value for funds spent.

“Some contractors did not meet the expected performance standards. Given that the government promptly mobilizes and pays for verified work, we cannot permit delays or negligence,” he remarked.

One of the impacted projects includes the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu–Uku to Ogwashi-Uku Road, which will be reassessed and awarded to a qualified contractor to align with the governor’s commitment to improving access to communities across all 25 local government areas.

Aniagwu also confirmed the council’s endorsement for the official presentation of the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Engr. Mike Oghenovo Orugbo, Okporua I, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, after his installation by the kingdom’s kingmakers.

The Commissioner reiterated the administration’s dedication to transparent, citizen-focused governance and the accelerated renewal of infrastructure across Delta State.

“Governor Oborevwori has made it clear that projects must provide real benefits to the people of Delta. We will not hesitate to take action when contractors fall short, keeping the interests of our citizens at heart,” Aniagwu concluded.

He assured that the Oborevwori administration will continue to focus on human welfare, infrastructure development, and institutional reforms aimed at promoting sustainable growth and prosperity for all residents of Delta State.

…As USPC Pays Historic Visit to APC State Secretariat

By Sunday Apah

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Elder Chief Omeni Sobotie, has stated that the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) is a formidable organization whose model of operations needs to be replicated in all local government areas of the state.

Sobotie made this known when the leadership of the USPC, led by Chief John Ewenede, paid a familiarization visit to him at the party secretariat in Asaba.

He stated that the USPC, comprised of both old and new APC members, and we’ll positioned to win all elections in 2027.

According to him, “With the coming together of the PDP and APC in Delta State, the 1999 PDP structure has resurfaced under a different name: the APC.

“We remain united in our pursuit to ensure that our president and governor return for a second term.

“I advise you to open your doors, register your group, and ensure that we win the 2027 election by a landslide.

“All the rights and privileges of the old party are the same as those of the new APC. When the merger on April 28 occurred, there was no dissenting voice; the old APC wholeheartedly welcomed the new APC, and it has remained so to date.”

“Based on the faces of the people I see here today, I am convinced that the APC in Ughelli South Local Government Area is working together, and indeed the USPC is a strong and formidable group.”

“With the merger, any political party or person thinking of contesting against Tinubu and Oborevwori should reconsider, as there is no vacancy in Aso Rock or Government House Asaba come 2027.”

“My advice to them is to throw in the towel and support us. The government is an elephant too big for one man to eat. Although anyone wishing to contest in 2027 is free to do so, the APC, as it stands today, is too formidable for anyone to defeat.”

“I pray for you all to continue with your vision, exercising wisdom to achieve your objectives, and you will grow from Colonels to Brigadiers.”

He described patrons of the USPC, Olorogun John Oguma and Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen, as politicians of impeachable character who are ready to support the USPC anytime.

He promised to support the group whenever they call upon him and urged them to officially launch the group in Ughelli South Local Government Area, enabling other local government areas in the state to replicate it as a model for galvanizing the party for better outcomes in 2027.

“We have a lot to campaign on ahead of the 2027 elections, unlike in 2003 when we had only the Bomadi Bridge. Today, we have many bridges to campaign with.”

Earlier, Olorogun John Akaruayen Ewenede, Chairman of the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC), alongside Publicity Secretary Dcn. Matthew Kwode, stated that the objective of the visit was to introduce the group’s executives to the chairman and other executives of the APC in the state.

According to the duo, the USPC is a disciplined political pressure group within the APC, committed to advancing the party’s progressive ideals in the Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.

In their words, “The group seeks to strengthen party cohesion, empower grassroots members, and promote issue-based political engagement across the local government area.”

“Our mission includes promoting the progressive ideals of the APC by mobilizing grassroots participation, strengthening internal party democracy, and advocating for citizen involvement in the ongoing INEC registration exercises.”

“We aim to foster policy-driven leadership and build a disciplined, inclusive, and responsive political movement dedicated to the growth of the party and the empowerment of the community.”

“Our vision is to become the leading grassroots political force within the APC in Delta State, renowned for principled leadership, inclusive governance, grassroots mobilization, and the promotion of sustainable development in Ughelli South LGA and beyond.”

They emphasized that the USPC is focused on mobilizing grassroots participation through political education and community engagement, advocating for governance that addresses real issues and delivers measurable results.

“The USPC is rooted in the principles of discipline, loyalty to party ideals, inclusive participation across age, gender, and class, as well as transparency, accountability, and issue-based politics.”

“Our membership is open to all registered APC members in Ughelli South LGA who align with the group’s vision and support the candidacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.”

Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple), Director of Operations, and Mrs. Josephine Oromata, Women Leader, reiterated the group’s resolve to galvanize votes for the party in 2027.

During the visit, the executives of the Ughelli South Political Colonels were introduced, which included Chief John Ewenede (Chairman), Sir Sunday Mrakpor (Deputy Chairman), Hon. Collins Mukoro (Vice Chairman 1), Chief Matthew Ogboru (Vice Chairman 2), Prince Koyoyo Urhorho (Vice Chairman 3), Hon. Paul Etaga (General Secretary), Engr. Agberia Ochuko (Assistant Secretary 1), Chief Steven Dieseruvwe (Assistant Secretary 2), Deacon Matthew Kwode (Publicity Secretary), Mr. David Dadi (Assistant Publicity Secretary), Hon. Matthew Oguma (Treasurer), Chief Ubu Jiminyevwe (Assistant Treasurer), Chief Fidelis Tuvata (Financial Secretary), Chief Samuel Oghotomo (Organizing Secretary), Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho (Assistant Organizing Secretary), Mr. Godwin Ewhien (Welfare Officer), Mr. Solomon Orovwighokpeki (Auditor), Mrs. Josephine Oromata (Women Mobilization), Hon. Happy Gbeke (Youth Mobilization), Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple) (Director of Operations), Dr. Ricardo Oguma (Assistant Director of Operations), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Adviser), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Isaac Omafuaire (Ex Officio), Chief Charles Ariko (Ex Officio), Chief Ovis Uto (Ex Officio), Hon. Charles Kwode (Assistant Auditor), Chief John Ebireri (Adviser), Elder Solomon Ala (Adviser), Dr. Kingsley Akeni (Press Secretary), Chief Sunday Apah (Press Secretary), Mrs. Mercy Ugbobor-Ekama (Assistant Welfare Officer), Chief Lizzy Djebah Unurhoro (Assistant Women Leader), Mr. Harrison Edore (Welfare Officer III), Hon. Michael Aye (Youth Leader I), Mr. Ochuko Omorere (Youth Leader II), Engr. Kingsley Igben (Ex Officio), Mr. Thomas Edafevwiroro (Ex Officio), Chief Orakata (Ex Officio), Chief Sylvester Uzoh (Adviser), and Barrister Innocent Ejedegba (Legal Adviser).

The elders and leaders of Ughelli South Local Government Area also sent representatives which included Chief Emmanuel Ejenake, Rev. Chicha, and Hon. Chief Bourne Ohwovoriole.

Additional members of the USPC who attended the visit included Mr. Solomon Toka, Ms. Onajite, and others.

By Sunday Apah

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli North Local Government Area has suspended its chairman, Mr. Obakpororo Onabaedje, along with its secretary, Beauty Ubogun-Nze, and organizing secretary, Mr. Henry Ophori.

This action was taken due to their alleged involvement in anti-party activities and their failure to convene party meetings since June 2023.

In a letter dated October 4, 2025, addressed to the APC Delta State chairman, the Ughelli North APC revealed that Mr. Samuel Evwighono has been appointed as Acting Chairman, Ms. Juliet Oduma as Acting Secretary, and Mr. Daniel Osiebe as Organizing Secretary.

The letter, co-signed by Mr. Samuel Evwighono, Ms. Juliet Oduma, and 24 other members, stated that the decision to suspend the trio was made during an emergency meeting held at the APC Party Secretariat on October 4, 2025.

According to the letter, a valid vote of no confidence was passed against Mr. Obakpororo Onabaedje, Ms. Beauty Ubogun-Nze, and Mr. Henry Ophori, leading to their suspension and replacement in accordance with the APC Constitution.

The letter cited specific constitutional provisions for the necessary actions and ratifications.

The letter outlined several grievances, including: “The suspension was prompted by the trio’s failure to call party meetings for both the working committee and executive committees since June 2023, which contravenes Article 21(2) and (3) of the APC Constitution.

“They did not respond to a seven-day notice of complaint against them. They were involved in anti-party activities, such as organizing rallies that publicly vilified the State Party Leader and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, which they argue undermined the party’s reputation.

“They allegedly engaged in anti-party activities by collaborating with the opposition, specifically the All Democratic Congress (ADC), and brought disrepute to APC members and leaders.

“They caused division within the party by not recognizing new members who defected to the APC and ignored clear directives from the party’s National Leader and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Given these infractions, which violate several sections of the APC Constitution, Mr. Obakpororo Onabaedje, Ms. Beauty Ubogun-Nze, and Mr. Henry Ophori have been suspended from their respective offices as per Article 21(1), (2), and (3) of the APC Constitution (as amended in 2022).

“Mr. Samuel Evwighono is appointed as Acting Chairman, Ms. Juliet Oduma as Acting Secretary, and Mr. Daniel Osiebe as Organizing Secretary, pending ratification by the State Working Committee and State Executive Committee.

Also, the meeting resolved to pass a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for their ongoing efforts and commitment to the party’s agenda.

By Godwin Udoh

The Donald Peterson Foundation and the Office of the Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Entrepreneurship Development, Dr. Donald Peterson, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Delta (UniDel), Agbor, to train 2000 youths in Tech-Preneurship and Agro-Preneurship.

The agreement with the University of Delta aims to provide alternatives for youths to steer them away from crime and help them earn a living. UniDel will provide and issue Diploma certificates and infrastructure for training, while the Donald Peterson Foundation will supply the resource persons to teach Tech-Preneurship and Agro-Preneurship.

The Special Adviser disclosed this to journalists at the operational office of the Donald Peterson Foundation in Agbor, the headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area. He emphasized that the training goes beyond just teaching IT; it includes integrating IT with business ideas.

“You are not just taught programming and IT-related courses; you are taught how to apply this knowledge in the business world, and your project will be your own business,” he explained.

“When you consider the multiplier effect of what we’re doing, it becomes clear that we are not merely teaching IT courses. We are infusing IT with business elements.”

“What we stand for is adding value—adding value through human capacity development, education, and mentorship. The space from which you come is where many of these issues are addressed, acting like a command center.”

Dr. Peterson further reiterated that the 2000 students began attending classes at the University of Delta for Tech-Preneurship four to five months ago, and the Agro-Preneurship program will be launched in October.

The program is divided into seven modules. Each module, if taken outside this initiative, would typically cost at least N500,000.

“So, for the seven modules, we are talking about N3.5 million, which we are offering for free. Considering the 2000 students registered, this package represents a value of over N7 billion.”

The Special Adviser stated that the program is designed with the participant in mind: “By the time you finish the course, you will be on the path to starting your own business. You will already be a business owner and, potentially, an employer of labor, which aligns with the ideology of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda to help youths become more self-reliant, resourceful, and productive.”

On the soon-to-be-launched Agro-Preneurship program, Dr. Peterson mentioned a training initiative called “Black Soldier Flies (BSF),” which focuses on raising maggots as a highly nutritious and cost-effective alternative to conventional feeds.

“The use of maggots allows you to raise bigger, stronger, healthier chickens for almost zero cost. Fish and pigs also benefit from feeding on maggots, which is particularly beneficial for those involved in animal husbandry,” he said.

Dr. Peterson acknowledged that some individuals might find the word and sight of maggots unappealing, so another feed alternative called Azolla, a water fern that grows in water and is also highly nutritious for chickens, goats, and pigs, will be introduced.

Describing these alternative feed sources as “low-hanging fruits,” the Special Adviser indicated that training programs will be organized to teach people how to cultivate Azolla in their backyards, either in basins or small ponds. He added that one impressive feature of this wonder feed alternative is its ability to replicate every 48 hours.

Finally, on the recent approval by the state executive council, presided over by Governor Oborevwori, for a multi-million-naira flyover project at the Uromi junction in Agbor, Ika South headquarters, Peterson described the initiative as a welcome relief that will not only enhance economic activities in the area but also ensure the safety of lives, recalling that hundreds of people have lost their lives while crossing the busy road over the years.