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Delta Governor, Civic Leaders Decry Deficient Voter Registration Figures, Demand Urgent Grassroots Mobilization

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has voiced profound dissatisfaction with the notably poor public turnout during the inaugural phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in the state, compelling stakeholders to escalate community-level mobilization before the subsequent phase begins in January 2026.

The Governor issued this directive on Wednesday during a sensitization forum convened by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in partnership with the Delta State Government at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori lamented that the initial registration statistics—approximately 76,000 individuals—fell drastically short of projections and failed to represent the demographic capacity and democratic engagement expected of the state.

He emphasized that voter enrollment constitutes the essential pathway to electoral involvement and underpins any legitimate and comprehensive democratic process.

Governor Oborevwori implored traditional leaders, political figures, faith-based institutions, civil society advocates, youth and women’s associations, trade groups, and media outlets to champion the CVR initiative by propagating awareness at the community level. He specifically urged young and first-time voters to enroll without delay, identifying them as the cornerstone of the democratic future.

The Governor reiterated his government’s dedication to fostering a conducive atmosphere for INEC to execute its constitutional duties unimpeded, expressing confidence that the next registration cycle would yield substantially improved results.

In introductory remarks, the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, stated that the forum was prompted by dwindling civic engagement and pervasive voter indifference. He asserted that although INEC is tasked with conducting elections, public involvement through voter registration is indispensable to sound governance. Emu further contended that citizens who neglect their civic obligation to vote relinquish the ethical standing to critique governmental performance.

During his address, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udoh Umoren, detailed the schedule of the first CVR phase, which began with online pre-registration in August 2025, proceeded with in-person registration at local government offices, and concluded with the public display of the voter register for verification—all in compliance with the Electoral Act 2022.

Umoren clarified that the CVR caters to new voters, individuals who previously missed registration windows, applicants amending personal information, those replacing lost or defaced Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and registrants seeking to transfer their voting location.

The REC confirmed that the second CVR phase launched on January 5, 2026, underscoring that voter registration is not a mere bureaucratic task but a civic imperative and a pillar of democratic practice. He also warned against electoral offenses such as duplicate registration and submission of fraudulent details, highlighting accompanying legal sanctions, while affirming INEC’s pledge to impartiality, openness, and the peaceful administration of the process.

The event, which included an awareness roadwalk spearheaded by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, drew participation from prominent stakeholders such as the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; Hon. Francis Waive, representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency; state legislators; members of the State Executive Council; traditional rulers; market leaders; civil society representatives; community elders; the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC); the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON); and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), among others.

How Court Jails Illegal Miner For Five Years

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By Admin

The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, secured a landmark conviction in its crackdown on illegal mining activities, as a Kwara State High Court convicted and sentenced a 52-year-old man, Ilori Elicanah, to five years’ imprisonment for unlawful possession of solid minerals.

Justice Abimbola Awogboro, who delivered the judgment, found Elicanah guilty of mining and possessing solid minerals without lawful authority, contrary to the provisions of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1983.

The EFCC had, in October 2024, arraigned the convict on a one-count charge bordering on illegal possession of solid minerals. The charge reads:

“That you, Ilori Elicanah sometime in September, 2022 within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, without lawful authority, mined tones of minerals conveyed in truck with plate number BDG678XU and chassis number LGWSRXPHHIGAD82084 contrary to, and punishable under Section 1 (8) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act CAP M17, 1983”

During the trial, the prosecution called two witnesses and tendered exhibits marked A–E to establish the culpability of the defendant. The defence, on its part, presented four witnesses, including the defendant, and closed its case on July 11, 2025.

In his final written address, counsel to the EFCC, Sesan Ola, urged the court to hold that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and to convict the defendant as charged. He noted that the defendant and other defence witnesses admitted under cross-examination that Elicanah did not possess a mining licence.

According to Ola, “My Lord, the defendant, DW1, DW2 and DW3 all admitted that the defendant does not possess a licence to mine, despite their claim that he operated under a verbal instruction from Tascon Plastic Industry Nigeria Limited’s mining lease.”

The prosecution relied on Section 1 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which vests ownership and control of all mineral resources in Nigeria in the Federal Government on behalf of the people.

Delivering judgment, Justice Awogboro held that the sole issue for determination was whether the defendant had lawful authority to possess solid minerals as required by law. Citing relevant judicial authorities, the judge ruled that the prosecution had successfully established all the ingredients of the offence and complied with Section 131 of the Evidence Act.

The court dismissed the defence’s argument that the defendant should be discharged and acquitted due to the alleged failure of the prosecution to call certain witnesses, describing the evidence presented by the EFCC as credible, strong, and reliable.

Justice Awogboro stated, “I agree entirely with the submission of the prosecution counsel that the defendant does not possess a licence and that there is no record showing payment of royalties to the Federal Government as stipulated by law.”

She consequently found the defendant guilty, convicted and sentenced him to five years imprisonment.
Elicanah bagged his imprisonment when he was arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC for illegal possession of solid minerals. He as charged to court and convicted.

Delta State Government to Screen Political Appointees; Exercise Begins January 28

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By Sunday Apah

In a decisive move to verify the status of political appointees within the state public service, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has established a verification committee charged with screening all political appointees across the state.

The initiative aims to ensure the legitimacy and accountability of appointees serving in various capacities.

The committee is mandated to conduct physical verification of political appointees throughout Delta State to confirm their active status.

Additionally, it is tasked with compiling a comprehensive report detailing the outcomes of the exercise, as well as handling any supplementary duties related to the verification process.

A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, affirmed that the exercise is part of a routine periodic check designed to identify exits from office attributable to natural causes, migration, or other relevant factors.

The verification panel is composed of seasoned officials, including: Dr. Odinigwe Odigwe, Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Science & Technology (Chairman); Chief Onoriode Sunday, State Director of Protocol, Office of the Governor (Member); Mr. Oghoro Augustine Ede, Executive Assistant on Public Service Matters, Office of the Governor (Member); Mrs. Athora Roseline, Deputy Director/Accounts, Office of the Accountant General (Member) and Mr. Felix Irevwi, Deputy Director/Administration, Office of the Secretary to the State Government (Secretary).

The screening exercise is scheduled to span 21 days, covering various federal constituencies and local government areas as follows: January 28, 2026 (Wednesday) – Oshimili/Aniocha Federal Constituency (Oshimili North & Oshimili South LGAs); January 29, 2026 (Thursday) – Oshimili/Aniocha Federal Constituency (Aniocha South & Aniocha North LGAs); February 4, 2026 (Wednesday) – Ika Federal Constituency (South Ika & Ika North East LGAs); February 5, 2026 (Thursday) – Ndokwa & Ukuani Federal Constituency (Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East & Ukuani LGAs); February 11, 2026 (Wednesday) – Isoko Federal Constituency (Isoko South & Isoko North LGAs); February 12, 2026 (Thursday) – Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency (Udu, Ughelli North & Ughelli South LGAs); February 18, 2026 (Wednesday) – Ethiope Federal Constituency (Ethiope East & Ethiope West LGAs); February 19, 2026 (Thursday) – Okpe, Sapele & Uvwie Federal Constituency (Okpe, Sapele & Uvwie LGAs); February 25, 2026 (Wednesday) – Warri Federal Constituency (Warri North, Warri South & Warri South West LGAs); February 26, 2026 (Thursday) – Burutu/Patani Federal Constituency (Burutu, Patani & Bomadi LGAs).

The verification exercise will take place at the Press Centre (beside the Chapel), Government House, Asaba.

Political appointees across the state are hereby urged to participate fully in the verification process. For inquiries, individuals can contact the official phone lines: 09037437233 or 08037785862.

NDLEA Arrested 77,792, Convicted 14,225, Seized 14.8m Kilograms Drugs

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…Honours 166 NDLEA personnel, 17 Commands at bi-annual CCEO awards, commendation ceremony; charges officers to go all out against drug cartels, barons

By Sunday Apah 

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has declared that with an outstanding record of 77,792 arrests including 128 barons, 14,225 convictions and over 14.8 million kilograms of illicit substances seized in the past five years, the era of Nigeria serving as a safe haven for criminal drug enterprises is over.

Marwa stated this in his remarks at the 11th Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CCEO) Awards and Commendation ceremony held at the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja where he charged NDLEA officers to brace up for more tactically sophisticated operations against drug cartels, barons and their mules in the next five years of his second tenure.

“When I first resumed in 2021, I promised to take the fight to the doorsteps of the merchants of death. Today, the numbers speak for themselves. Through our collective resilience, we have sent a clear message that Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for illicit drug enterprise.

“It’s therefore heartwarming to note that in the last five years, we recorded significant operational successes including the arrest of 77,792 drug offenders, including 128 identified drug barons who were central to major trafficking networks. We seized a total of 14,847,486.34 kilograms of assorted illicit drugs, thereby significantly disrupting both local and transnational supply chains.

“In further strengthening the criminal justice response to drug offences, the Agency successfully prosecuted and secured convictions against 14,225 offenders, reinforcing deterrence and affirming that drug crime attracts consequences.

“In line with our balanced approach, the Agency also prioritised drug demand reduction. Through structured treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation programmes, 32,442 drug users received professional intervention. Additionally, 13,735 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation activities were conducted across schools, motor parks, workplaces, worship centres, and communities, expanding preventive awareness and citizen engagement nationwide”, he stated while highlighting the results of the last half-decade drug control efforts of the Agency under his leadership.

Noting that the achievements would not have been possible without the support of the executive, legislature and the judiciary, Marwa expressed his profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unflinching support and the trust reposed in his leadership. He said that the President’s decision to extend the current leadership’s mandate is a call to escalate the war against drug abuse and trafficking to new heights.

“These achievements are not accidental. They are the result of discipline, leadership, intelligence-led operations, and clear performance expectations. This journey would not have been possible without the unflinching support of the President. I therefore wish to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the absolute trust he has reposed in my leadership and in the entire workforce of this Agency.

“Mr. President’s decision to extend our mandate is a call to more work. We assure him, and indeed all Nigerians, that the successes of the past five years are merely a foundation. In this second tenure, we will escalate the war against drug abuse and trafficking to new heights of efficiency and results”, he stated.

Addressing the officers, men and women of the Agency, Marwa said “the next phase of our operations demands even more grit and more tactical sophistication. We will not rest until every drug baron is behind bars, every trafficker is intercepted, every mule is caught, and every single gram of illicit drug is removed from our streets and communities.

“There is no room for complacency. We must remain proactive, intelligence-led, and ruthless in our pursuit of those who seek to destroy our youth and our national security.

Let me be clear: the objective of this Agency remains the total disruption of drug trafficking and the protection of our communities. The expectation is sustained pressure until every drug baron, trafficker, courier, and every gram of illicit drugs is taken out of our streets and communities. There will be no retreat and no complacency.”

The 11th CCEO Awards honored gallant personnel who have demonstrated exceptional courage and integrity in the line of duty. Marwa charged the awardees to see their plaques and certificates as reminders that their hard work is valued, while urging the rest of the force to find inspiration in their achievements.

“As we are all aware, the Commands Awards and Commendations is an internal reward mechanism that comes after our bi-annual appraisal. It is enshrined in our corporate culture and acts as a booster to individual and collective commitment to the attainment of organisational goals. I believe that everyone in this organisation is in accord that we now have a sense of urgency towards our assignment.

“There is no gainsaying that our dedication to duty has been the driving force behind our good performance; at the same time, it is also not an exaggeration to say that our good performance is catalysed by motivation. As proven right by events in the past five years, management’s decision to deploy multipronged motivational mechanism to improve the organisation’s work ethic is part of the recipe for the resurgence of the Agency and the resultant spectacular performance. On that score, management is committed to doing everything possible to improve productivity on the job. Part of that effort is why we are here today.”

He equally acknowledged the critical role of international partners, sister agencies, civil society, and the media in the successes recorded so far, calling for even deeper strategic partnerships in the years ahead to protect the future of Nigerian children.

Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Tuesday, 20th January 2026

Police Kill Suspected Armed Robber, Arrest 25 Murderers, Cultists, Rape Suspects in Delta

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Daily Shine Nigeria
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…Recover 11 Firearms, 80 Rounds of Ammunition, Cartridges, and One Vehicle

By Sunday Apah

The police have killed a suspected armed robber, arrested 25 suspected murderers, cultists, and rapists at various locations across Delta State.

This was revealed during a media briefing by the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, who stated that the police also recovered 11 firearms, 80 rounds of ammunition, cartridges, and one vehicle from the hoodlums.

He explained that, acting on credible intelligence that a group of suspected cultists were gathered suspiciously in a bush at Ughelli town at about 19:35 hours on 17th January 2026, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) stormed the area. Upon arrival, the hoodlums engaged the team in a gun duel, which was repelled.

“After the ensuing gun duel, the hoodlums fled with varying degrees of bullet injuries. One of them, who sustained serious gunshot injuries, was arrested and taken to the hospital where he later died while receiving treatment.

“One Beretta pistol with four (4) rounds of live ammunition was recovered. Efforts to arrest the other fleeing suspects are ongoing.”

Also, acting on intelligence on 11th January 2026 at about 21:35 hours, operatives of CP-SAT, in collaboration with community vigilantes, carried out a well-coordinated covert operation and cordoned off a criminal hideout located in an uncompleted building where six (6) suspected kidnappers were hiding in a bush along Upper Agbarho area, Ughelli North LGA.

“Upon sighting the police operatives, the suspects opened fire; however, the operatives responded with superior firepower, forcing the hoodlums to flee with varying degrees of injuries, abandoning their arms and other items. Exhibits recovered include one (1) FNC rifle loaded with one (1) round of live ammunition, and one (1) pump-action gun with thirty-two (32) rounds of live cartridges. All exhibits have been recovered, and the suspects have been taken into custody.”

In a related development, and in line with proactive patrols and confidence-building operations across the State, on 10th January 2026 at about 01:20 hours, operatives of the Ekpan Division, while conducting patrols along Hausa Market, Ubeji, sighted five (5) suspected hoodlums loitering suspiciously within the market area.

“Upon sighting the police team, the suspects fled in different directions. The operatives chased and arrested one Gift Ojulowo (male, 30 years) of New Layout, Ubeji.

“A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of one (1) locally fabricated gun and two (2) live cartridges concealed inside his trousers. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Aye Confraternity cult group. The suspect and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody.”

On 19th January 2026, at about 14:00 hours, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on a tip-off, arrested one Odinaka David and another suspect at Isheagu, recovering one double-barreled gun and six rounds of live cartridges. The suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

On the same date, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on intelligence, stormed Ogwashi-Uku and arrested one Joy Ezeni (female, 45 years), recovering one hundred wraps of weed suspected to be “Loud”. The suspect and exhibits are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

In furtherance of the Command’s sustained intelligence-led efforts to curb the circulation of illicit substances, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on intelligence, recorded a significant breakthrough on 8th January 2026 at about 13:30 hours.

“The operation led to the arrest of Obi Onuigbi Ndubuoso (male, 43 years), from whom thirty-six (36) bottles of illicit drugs, popularly known as LAUGHING GAS, were recovered. The suspect is in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.”

On 8th January 2026 at about 07:31 hours, a report was received at Ogwashi-Uku Division that at about 03:20 hours the same day, at Poly Road by Adaigbo Filling Station, a 20-year-old male was stabbed to death while asleep. Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ogwashi-Uku, promptly mobilised detectives to the scene.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly stabbed by his brother, Aliyu Haman (male, 20 years), after taking some substance suspected to be illicit drugs. The suspect was arrested, and the weapon used in committing the crime was recovered,” it added.

Oborevwori Mourns the Passing of Bishop Afareha, Expresses Solidarity with Warri Catholic Diocese

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Warri on the demise of Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed away at the age of 78.

In an official statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, from Asaba, the Governor hailed the late Bishop Afareha as a distinguished servant of God whose exemplary faith, humility, and unwavering dedication profoundly impacted both the Church and the broader community.

Governor Oborevwori lamented the profound loss, underscoring the Bishop’s lifelong commitment to spiritual discipline, pastoral care, and the steadfast advancement of the Catholic faith, particularly within the Warri Diocese.

“The death of Bishop Afareha represents a significant void not only for the Catholic Church but also for Delta State and humanity in general,” the Governor remarked. “He was a venerable father figure, devoted shepherd, and a man of profound prayer whose life was a beacon of service, sacrifice, and allegiance to God’s will.”

Extending his deepest sympathies to the Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, as well as the clergy, religious community, faithful parishioners, and the family of the departed, Governor Oborevwori prayed for divine comfort and resilience amidst their grief.

He further beseeched God to grant the late Bishop eternal peace and to reward his lifelong dedication and distinguished service to the Church and humanity.

Bishop Afareha was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997.

The Catholic Diocese of Warri announced his passing with “profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection,” entrusting his soul to the boundless mercy of God.

2027 Governorship Election: Ijaw Leader Urges Politicians to Refrain from Challenging Oborevwori

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By Sunday Apah

Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, a prominent environmental and human rights advocate from the Niger Delta, has lauded Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the successful groundbreaking of the N59.7 billion Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover in Agbor.

He has called on politicians to avoid contesting against the governor in the 2027 governorship election, emphasizing that Oborevwori’s outstanding performance merits continued leadership to further advance development in Delta State.

Addressing journalists in Asaba, the state capital, following the flyover groundbreaking at Uromi junction, Chief Mulade expressed admiration for Governor Oborevwori’s administration, stating, “We have just witnessed the groundbreaking of another major flyover in the state.

“Not long ago, the Ughelli flyover was inaugurated, and today, Agbor follows suit. This infrastructure project is poised to boost economic activity and should be wholeheartedly commended.”

He further praised the governor’s preparedness and dedication to steering the affairs of the state, declaring, “Governor Oborevwori came into office prepared and has consistently fulfilled his promises without disappointment.”

As the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, Chief Mulade also applauded the recent donation of 65 SUVs to traditional rulers across the state by Governor Oborevwori, describing it as a significant and commendable gesture.

“Through this medium, I extend my gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for the recent presentation of 65 brand-new SUVs to our traditional leaders.

“His administration deeply respects and honors these custodians of our customs, reflecting his commitment to cultural values and governance,” he stated.

Highlighting the progress achieved under the current administration, Chief Mulade urged the public to support Governor Oborevwori for a second term to sustain and expand the ongoing people-centered projects.

He implored political actors to desist from opposing the governor in the upcoming elections, noting, “Given the unprecedented developments we have witnessed, it is vital to allow him to consolidate these achievements. We anticipate further infrastructure launches across the state, with enhanced attention to riverine communities this year.”

Oborevwori Unleashes Colossal N59.7bn Agbor/Uromi Flyover Project to Stamp Out Deadly Traffic Nightmares

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…Promises Deltans Game-Changing Safety, Unequaled Development Surge

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday ignited a transformational era as he launched the mammoth N59.7 billion Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area — a bold strike against the deadly chaos choking this notorious traffic blackspot.

At the electrifying groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Oborevwori thundered the project is a lifeline — a critical, no-nonsense intervention designed to obliterate fatal accidents, slash gridlock, and unleash a tidal wave of economic dynamism across Delta and the entire region.

Spotlighting the hazardous junction saddled with relentless crashes and catastrophic losses of lives and property, the governor warned that its volatile mix of vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians on a federal highway demanded an uncompromising, permanent fix.

“This intersection has been a graveyard for too long. Traffic management here is a disaster zone; only a colossal infrastructure showdown will vanquish the peril,” he declared.

The massive contract to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc — a titan in construction — was confirmed, with an ironclad 14-month deadline to deliver a 1.3-kilometre flyover bridge, dual-lane carriageways, ramps, roundabouts, advanced drainage, and cutting-edge solar street lighting engineered for safety and sustainability.

Flanked by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and top officials, Oborevwori emphasized the strategic lifeline status of this corridor, nicknamed the “artery of the Niger Delta,” linking East to West and serving as the gateway to the North.

“Every road warrior from Lagos to the East and West must traverse this junction. Its destruction or dysfunction risks strangling the national economy,” he warned.

Governor Oborevwori pledged the flyover would revolutionize mobility, decimate travel delays, unlock vast economic opportunities, and, crucially, shield thousands of daily commuters from harm’s way.

He spotlighted the booming jobs this colossal project would spawn for engineers, artisans, laborers, transporters, and food vendors — injecting new life into the local economy.

Reiterating an ironclad commitment to balanced and inclusive growth, the governor revealed a jaw-dropping N100 billion special intervention that allocates N4 billion each for infrastructure to all 25 local government areas, bolstered by multi-sector investments.

He also detailed the ongoing blitz of transformative projects in Ika South, including a monumental N15.4 billion drainage and road contract targeting devastating floods and erosion, plus a visionary N12 billion road upgrading plan.

“Here, contracts aren’t just awarded—they’re earned through merit and excellence. This flyover will be a shining beacon of that ethos,” he vowed, pledging rigid adherence to deadlines.

Echoing the celebratory mood, immediate past Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa hailed the flyover as a “monumental feat of infrastructure,” applauding Oborevwori’s relentless pursuit of progress and continuity.

He endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s brave economic reforms as essential, though challenging, steps toward Nigeria’s stability.

Works Commissioner, Comrade Reuben Izeze lauded Oborevwori as a fearless and tireless visionary, urging the Ika Nation to rally unwaveringly behind their transformative leader.

Julius Berger’s representative, Mr. Frederich Weiser, expressed deep gratitude for trust in their expertise, pledging world-class quality, safety, and minimal disruption — drawing confidence from prior signature projects like the Ughelli Flyover.

NDDC Chairman Chiedu Ebie threw full weight behind the project, vowing to partner with Delta State on critical feeder roads to support the flyover’s success.

Ika South LG Chairman, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, dubbed the flyover a “destiny-defining masterpiece,” saluting Oborevwori’s decisive, results-driven leadership, including restoring power to communities long left in the dark.

Other dignitaries, including Hon. Victor Nwokolo, APC’s Felix Morka, HRM Benjamin Ikechukwu Keagborekuzi I, and Prof. Onyemaechi Ugboh, showered the governor with high praise for his unprecedented infrastructure crusade and pledged steadfast support.

FG Opens Applications for 2026 Overseas Scholarship

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By Sunday Apah

The Federal Government has officially opened applications for the 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme, offering Nigerian postgraduate students the chance to pursue advanced studies in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.

This development was confirmed through a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Dada Olusegun, the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, on Monday.

“The Federal Government has officially commenced the application process for the 2026 PTDF Overseas Scholarships,” the announcement declared.

According to information on the PTDF Scholarship Board website, the program targets MSc and PhD candidates specializing in fields pertinent to the oil and gas industry.

The scholarship package covers tuition fees, round-trip airfare, accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, and bench fees if applicable.

The PTDF noted, “The 2026 Overseas MSc and PhD Scholarships offer access to premier global training, research infrastructure, and expertise, aimed at fortifying indigenous capacity within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”

For PhD candidates applying to institutions in the United Kingdom, the scholarship follows a split-site model, allowing research activities to be conducted both at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) and at designated UK partner universities, including Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde, and University of Portsmouth.

The agency underscored the competitiveness of the scholarship. “Only applicants demonstrating exceptional merit and alignment with program objectives will be shortlisted,” said the statement.

Evaluation criteria include academic achievements, quality of research proposals, professional affiliations, and relevance to the petroleum industry.

Applicants for MSc programs must possess at least a Second Class Lower division (2.2) or better in their undergraduate degree, have completed the NYSC, demonstrate computer proficiency, and hold a minimum of five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics.

PhD candidates are required to submit a detailed research proposal (up to five pages) outlining objectives, methodological approach, and data collection techniques.

“All candidates must validate their National Identity Number (NIN) before submitting their applications. Submission of multiple applications or fraudulent documents will lead to immediate disqualification,” the PTDF warned.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply through the official portal at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng for programs offered by PTDF-affiliated institutions. The deadline for submitting applications is February 27th.

Source: Punch

SHOCKING ALLEGATION: FG Charges Senior Advocate Mike Ozekhome Over Explosive UK Property Forgery Scandal

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By Sunday Apah

In a dramatic escalation of a contentious UK property dispute, the Federal Government has slammed criminal charges against Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, accusing him of perpetrating forgery and employing counterfeit documents to claim ownership of a London property.

The three-count criminal charge, docketed FCT/HC/CR/010/2026, was officially filed on Friday before the Federal High Court in Abuja by Osuobeni Akponimisingha, head of prosecutions at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alongside Ngozi Onwuka, assistant chief legal officer, acting on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).

The veteran legal luminary stands accused of knowingly submitting falsified papers—including a forged Nigerian international passport—to substantiate his ownership claim over a property situated at 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX. These alleged acts reportedly took place during legal proceedings at the London First-Tier Tribunal.

The purported offenses occurred in August 2021 within Maitama, Abuja, falling under the Federal Capital Territory High Court’s jurisdiction.

The formal charges encompass: the submission of false information, the creation and use of forged documents, and the deliberate attempt to deceive a public authority.

Specifically, the charges state: Count one accuses Ozekhome of unlawfully receiving ownership of the London property from a certain “Mr. Shani Tali” in August 2021—a transaction said to constitute a felony under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Count two alleges that Ozekhome forged a Nigerian passport bearing the name “Shani Tali” in Abuja to fraudulently bolster his claim to the property, violating sections of the Penal Code concerning forgery and fraud.

Count three charges that Ozekhome dishonestly used the forged passport as authentic evidence despite knowing its falsity, further breaching penal statutes.

The prosecution has signaled its intent to summon a range of witnesses including ICPC investigators and Nigerian Immigration Service officials. Crucial exhibits will include the London First-Tier Tribunal judgment, sworn statements, official correspondences, and passport intelligence relating to “Shani Tali.”

No trial date has been scheduled as the justice machinery prepares to handle this high-profile case.

At the core of the controversy lies the ownership of the disputed address at Randall Avenue, involving Ozekhome and the late retired Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Useni.

The original dispute was submitted to the UK First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), case REF/2023/0155, with “Tali Shani” positioning as the claimant and Ozekhome as the respondent.

While Ozekhome insists the property was gifted to him by “Mr. Tali Shani” in 2021, representatives for “Ms. Shani” maintain she holds rightful title.

Interestingly, a mysterious “Mr. Tali Shani” testified supporting Ozekhome’s claim, asserting possession of “Power of Attorney” over the property and alleging that he transferred ownership to Ozekhome. This individual also indicated that Useni was his appointed property manager and close confidant.

Conversely, documents tendered on behalf of “Ms. Tali Shani”—including an obituary, NIN card, ECOWAS passport, and telecommunications evidence—were declared fabricated by the tribunal. The judgment dismissed all claims by these purported parties and shockingly revealed that neither “Mr.” nor “Ms. Tali Shani” legally exist, concluding that the true proprietor, using a false identity, is the late Useni himself.

As this explosive saga unfolds, the Nigerian legal world and the public await the forthcoming trial that promises to expose the depths of deception and legal machinations behind this international property dispute.

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