By Sunday Apah

Residents of Ofagbe Community in Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State, have held a demonstration to express their frustration with the extensive delays and reported substandard work on the 24-kilometer Isoko Ring Road.

They are urging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to cancel the contract awarded to Dora-Dan Global Resources.

Led by Community President-General Engr. Cyril Jeke, protesters voiced strong dissatisfaction with what they described as the contractor’s failure to complete this essential infrastructure project, despite several attempts by the state government to intervene.

During the protest, Engr. Jeke criticized the contractor for an apparent “lack of capability and expertise,” pointing out that the project has seen little progress years after it was initially awarded under former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

The community explained that the road, which connects Ellu, Ovrode, Ofagbe, Orie-Irri, Okpe-Isoko, Uro-Irri, and Ada-Irri, was originally due for completion by December 2022. They expressed disappointment that construction remains far from finished, forcing locals to cope with deteriorating living conditions.

Jeke mentioned that multiple high-level efforts have been made to address the issue, including a visit by the Deputy Governor and an inspection by Governor Oborevwori in March 2025. These interventions led to an increase in the contract value to encourage better performance from the contractor. Despite the revised budget, the community reports no substantial advancement on the project.

He also noted that a strategic meeting in June 2025—attended by stakeholders, government representatives, and the contractor, and facilitated by the Special Adviser on Project Monitoring and Audit, Engr. Dr. Goodnews Agbi—resulted in a pledge from Dora-Dan Global Resources to return to the site and expedite work. “That commitment has not been meaningfully honored,” the community stated.

While acknowledging repeated assurances from the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, that the state government remains dedicated to finishing the project, the community insists that the lack of visible progress contradicts these promises.

Protesters condemned the slow pace of work as “unacceptably sluggish” and cautioned that further delays would intensify residents’ difficulties, particularly with the approaching rainy season.

“The road has turned into a daily ordeal for travelers and residents. Local commerce is paralyzed, access to basic services is heavily restricted, and our community faces relentless hardship,” their statement declared.

Demonstrators carried signs with messages such as “Contractor is Incompetent—Revoke the Contract,” “Public Funds, No Progress—Why?”, “Further Delay is Unacceptable,” and “Delayed Development is Denied Development.”

They outlined the severe human and economic impact of the stall, noting that farmers cannot move their goods, pregnant women face obstacles reaching medical care, and entire communities risk isolation during heavy rains.

The community is now appealing to Governor Oborevwori to end the current contract and reassign it to a more capable contractor with a demonstrated ability to finish the project within a realistic timeframe.

“We believe in the Governor’s MORE Agenda, but that promise must be backed by decisive action when a contractor clearly underperforms,” community leaders asserted, adding that public patience has been exhausted.

In response to the protest, the Chief of Staff of the Government House in Asaba, Hon. Johnson Erijo, praised the community for choosing a peaceful method to raise their concerns rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Erijo recognized that the Deputy Governor, the Commissioner for Works, and the Governor had previously given commitments regarding the road. He assured protesters that their grievances would be relayed to the governor.

“I will ensure His Excellency is informed of your protest. As you have rightly emphasized, the government does not tolerate poor performance. Appropriate measures will be taken,” he stated.

He further reassured the community that the state government will review their situation and implement suitable actions to resolve the issue.

By Sunday Apah

Residents of Oginibo Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, have expressed gratitude to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for promptly approving a solar-powered streetlight project.

The initiative is intended to improve security and support local economic growth.

The community issued a statement on Monday, describing the NDDC’s action as timely, significant, and worthy of praise.

According to the statement, Oginibo Community formally petitioned the NDDC on February 9, 2026, seeking the installation of 985 solar-powered streetlights.

The request aimed to address persistent darkness and related security and socioeconomic issues.

The appeal, jointly signed by President-General Mr. Israel Orioborue Opheghe and Secretary-General Mr. Tisha Ejekanshe Matthew, emphasized the years-long absence of working streetlights in the area.

This situation has increased vulnerability to crime, restricted nighttime mobility, and stifled business operations.

Community representatives welcomed the news that the NDDC approved the project and awarded the contract less than a month after receiving the request.

They characterized this step as exceptional and evidence of a more efficient and outcome-focused Commission.

The approved project entails the urgent installation of solar streetlights throughout Oginibo and surrounding areas, with a total budget of ₦298 million, including Value Added Tax.

Local leaders remarked that the Commission’s swift reply signals a revived dedication to supporting development in Niger Delta communities.

“This unusual speed clearly demonstrates the rise of a results-driven Commission focused on serving the public’s needs,” the statement read.

The community also commended NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku for transforming the agency into an active and responsible organization dedicated to achieving tangible outcomes.

They expressed confidence that the streetlights will greatly increase safety, allow more secure movement after dark—particularly for women, children, and the elderly—and encourage evening commercial and social engagement.

The statement recognized Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads) Comrade Reuben Izeze for helping connect the community with the NDDC.

Reaffirming its commitment to assist throughout the installation, Oginibo Community promised ongoing collaboration with the Commission to ensure the project is effectively carried out and maintained.

They noted that the effort supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, thanking the federal government while reiterating backing for both the President and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Speaking for the community, President-General Mr. Israel Orioborue Opheghe called the approval “a timely and meaningful step that marks a new chapter in the NDDC’s service delivery.”

He added that Oginibo remains dedicated to supporting programs that advance development and safety.

The statement ended with profound thanks to the NDDC for rebuilding public trust through what it termed a community-focused and attentive intervention.

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has instructed all political appointees planning to run for office in the 2027 general elections to submit their resignations by March 31, 2026.

A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, clarified that this order aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and follows the schedule released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries preceding the 2027 elections.

The policy applies to all levels of political appointees aiming to contest in party primaries or pursue nomination for any elective position.

This includes Honourable Commissioners, Advisers, Directors-General, Executive Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Personal Assistants to the Governor, and all other political officeholders within the state.

Affected individuals must deliver their formal resignation letters to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government no later than the specified date.

They are also required to complete a handover to the Permanent Secretary or the highest-ranking career official in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The statement emphasized that all concerned appointees should acknowledge the directive and adhere to it without exception.

By Sunday Apah

A high-powered delegation of Ughelli South leaders paid a condolence visit on Sunday to the family of the late Mr. Sunday Kotor at his residence in Orhuwhorun town.

The delegation was led by the National Leader of the Ughelli South political class, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma, and included the member representing Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Festus Utuama; the Council Chairman, Olorogun Lucky Avweromre, PhD; and the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ughelli South LGA Chairman, Chief Ojays Ojigho.

Speaking during the visit, Olorogun John Oguma emphasized that life’s value is measured by impact, not longevity. “It is not the number of years one lives that matters, but the impact one makes on the lives of others,” he stated. “Jesus Christ lived a short life on earth, but He is remembered forever for His impact.”

He advised the widow, Mrs. Victoria Kotor, to be strong and assured her of the political class’s support.

In their remarks, Hon. Festus Utuama and Chairman, Avweromre extolled the virtues of the late Mr. Kotor, describing his passing as an irreparable loss. They noted that the vacuum created by his death would be hard to fill, particularly given his exceptional skill in oratory. They prayed for God to grant his soul eternal rest and urged the family to remain strong.

The APC Chairman, Chief Ojays Edirin Ojigho, expressed deep sorrow to the family, friends, and associates of the late Mr. Sunny Kotor, fondly known as Inehweri. He noted that his death has left a painful void in the political and social landscape of the area.

“Until his demise, Mr. Sunny Kotor served as Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Protocol, a position in which he distinguished himself through diligence, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to duty,” Ojigho said.

“Beyond his official responsibilities, he was a grassroots political leader whose influence was rooted in quiet effectiveness, humility, and genuine concern for people. He was a rare personality whose simplicity and gentle nature endeared him to all, living a life defined by peace and a unique ability to unite people.”

Chief Ojigho added that the party acknowledges Kotor’s indelible contributions to political development and community cohesion. He called for unity and support for the bereaved family, urging all to uphold the values of peace and service that defined the deceased.

“Indeed, his passing marks the end of a chapter characterized by quiet leadership and impactful service. Yet, his memory will continue to inspire, reminding us that true greatness often lies in simplicity, humility, and a life well-lived in service to others,” Ojigho concluded.

Responding on behalf of the family, the senior son of the late politician, Mr. Emuesiri Kotor, thanked the leaders and the APC family for their visit.

He promised, on behalf of the family, to uphold the virtues of his late father, whom he described as a man who held friends in high esteem.

He never discriminated; he related to all, irrespective of their status or political party.

He emphasized that his father’s legacy was one of bridge-building and genuine human connection, values the family pledges to honour in their own lives.

We see the visit as a great comfort us, and it underscored the deep respect and camaraderie that my late father fostered across political lines.

We the late Mr. Sunday Kotor family remains grateful for the outpouring of support during this difficult time.

The visit was attended by Olorogun Bernard Jamaho, Barr. Emmanuel Pippa, Rev. Vote Vhovhen, Rev. Isaac Chicha, Chief Josephine Oduaran, Deacon Matthew Kwode, Engr. Stephen Dorume, Hon. Chief Paul Etaga, Chief Mrs. Regina Ofigho, Hon. Chief Francis Aguonigho, Hon. Chief Charles Kwode, Evang. Freeborn Yafogho, Comrade Akpos Onokurefe, Chief Efeviroro Edjuto, Mr. Gordons Jimmy, Mr. Japhet Efeakpokrire, Mr. Aghoghophia Otto, Chief John Ewenede, Chief Raymond Temisere, Hon. Precious Ejenake, Chief Samuel Buluku, Dcn. John-Holt Enana, Barr. Avwomakpa, Hon. Maxwell Urhogu, Ms. Ghene Gbogidi, Rt. Hon. MaryAndrew Majemite, Olorogun Okiemute Oviri, Mr. Edwin Oghojefa, Mr. Benjamin Mogosibo, Hon. Henry Gbejimor, Chief Sunday Shaguolo, Ms. Noreen Ughojor, Sir. Sunday Mrakpor, Mr. Bernard Evurosa and others.

By Sunday Apah 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of his
Senior Special Assistant on Protocol, Mr. Sunday Kotor.

He described his passing as a painful loss to the state government and the people of Delta.

Kotor, who was a dedicated aide to the Governor and widely known as a seasoned Master of Ceremony, reportedly died after collapsing at a private event on Friday evening.

He was said to have slumped during the event and was immediately rushed to a medical facility, where efforts by doctors to revive him were unsuccessful. He was later confirmed dead.

Governor Oborevwori, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the late Kotor as a dedicated and committed public servant who gave his best in the discharge of his duties.

“The late Sunday Kotor was wholly dedicated to his job. His passing is a huge loss, not only to his family but to the government and people of Delta State,” he lamented.

Governor Oborevwori extended his heart-felt condolences to the family of the deceased, particularly his younger brother, Mr. Conference Kotor, who serves as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor (media).

The Governor noted that Kotor’s contributions to government’s activities, especially in the area of protocol and event coordination, would be greatly missed.

Kotor was a familiar face in Government House, Asaba, where he played a prominent role in anchoring official state functions for over two decades.

He served as Master of Ceremonies under successive administrations, including those of former Governors Emmanuel Uduaghan and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, and continued in the role under the current administration.

A graduate of Mass Communication from Delta State University, Abraka, the late Kotor hailed from Okwagbe Waterside in Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area.

His sudden death has thrown family members, colleagues, and associates into mourning, with many describing it as shocking and devastating, given his longstanding service and vibrant presence at public events.

…As Sympathisers Storm His Orhuwhorun Residence to Offer Condolences

By Sunday Apah

Sympathisers stormed Orhuwhorun to pay a condolence visit to the immediate family of the late Mr. Sunday (Sunny) Kotor, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Protocol.

He died of a suspected cardiac arrest in his maternal town, Oviri-Ogor, Ughelli North Local Government Area.

It was gathered that he had gone to Oviri-Ogor for the burial of one of his aunts.

After the ceremony, he decided to visit some family members in the company of friends.

According to a source, while he was being entertained, his phone rang. When he did not answer it, those present tried to get his attention and noticed he was neither speaking nor breathing.

He was immediately rushed to Lilly Hospital in Ughelli and was later referred to Central Hospital. Doctors at Central Hospital confirmed him dead on arrival.

Among those who paid condolence visits were: Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Executive Director, Project, DESOPADEC; Deacon Raymond Edijala, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring; Barr. Emmanuel Pippa; Olorogun Sunday Apah, SSA to the Governor on Media; Hon. Chief Saturday Mofoye, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters; Evang. Freeborn Yafogho, Member, Delta Waterways/Lands Security Committee; Mr. Edwin Oghojefa, Supervisor for Works, Ughelli South LG Council; Olorogun Sir. Patrick Willie, SSA to the Governor; Comrade Wilson Emuejevwen, APC Chairman, Udu Ward 09; Chief Mrs. Regina Ofigho, SSA to the Governor on Women Mobilisation; Mrs. Stella Okpetubesio, Ex-Officio, APC Ughelli South LGA; Mrs. Agberia Sikprako, Ex-Officio, APC Udu Local Government Area; and others.

The late Mr. Sunny Kotor hailed from Okwagbe Waterside Community, Ughievwen Kingdom, in Ughelli South Local Government Area. He is survived by a wife and many children.

...He Remains The Best Man For The Job

By Admin

A group, United Ughelli South Political Reawakening Forum (UUPRF), has lend its voice to the call on Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, the scion of Gbagi family from Oginibo, Ughelli South Council area of Delta state, to contest the 2027 State Assembly elections, in order to provide adequate representation that would enable the development of their various communities.

Making the call in a press statement made available to newsmen yesterday, the body attributed the slow pace of infrastructural growth in the area to poor representation over the years, noting that Ughelli South Local Government cannot afford to make the same mistakes that had held them back in 2027 again.

In a statement signed by Mr. Martins Ovedje and Mr. Onajite Ejaiita, Chairman and Secretary respectively, UUPRF lamented the state of under-development of Ughelli even as an ancient city, stressing that the area would have witnessed remarkable growth if those who claimed to have represented the people in time past were consummated businessmen.

According to the statement; “We, the members of the above named political organization have taken time to follow the representation of Ughelli South by successive governments in the state and we have come to the realization that apart from Comrade Reuben Izeze, who did well under the Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration, the rest did nothing”.

“Ughelli South is an ancient city in Delta state and ought to have seen a better infrastructural growth than what we have on the ground today if men with sound business acumen like Chief Emouboh Gbagi had been elected to represent the area because we can attest to his intellectual capabilities in business”.

“As a political conscious group that is interested in the development of Ughelli South as a major stakeholder, we have a taken time out yo conduct a research on who becomes the next House of Assembly member that possess the integrity, intellectual capabilities and needed business acumen to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of this area”.

“Our research findings based empirical evidences shows that the only person that has that capacity is Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, the son of late business mogul with solid connection across the country and former Minister of the Federal Republic, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, who we believe inherited his business instincts from his late father”.

“We have followed his track records after the exit of the late Patriarch of the Gbagi dynasty and we have come to the realization that had kept to the family tradition of consolidating business growth and nurturing new ideas to diversify into other areas of business inorder to improve on the fortunes the father had left behind for the family”.

“We are convinced that Ughelli South will be in a safe hand in terms of transformational growth if someone like Emouboh Gbagi is elected yo represent the area in the House of Assembly because he has all it takes both physically and mentally to make representation that would improve on the lines of people in the area”.

“We are therefore using this unique opportunity to call on the good people of Ughelli South to give their support to Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, to represent them in the House of Assembly as from 2027, inorder to begin to experience new lease of life in terms of social, infrastructural and economic growth of the area, the statement concluded.

End

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability within the state’s tax administration framework.

This commitment coincides with Delta’s designation as the host for the South-South Zonal Headquarters of the Office of the Tax Ombud Nigeria.

Governor Oborevwori conveyed this assurance during a meeting on Thursday with the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. John Nwabueze, and his delegation at the Government House in Asaba.

Despite the public holiday, the Governor extended a cordial welcome, emphasizing the significance of the visit in reinforcing a mutual dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s tax system through principles of equity and responsibility.

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for instituting the autonomous Tax Ombud Office under the 2025 tax reforms, characterizing the initiative as a well-timed enhancement to the nation’s fiscal structure.

In congratulating Dr. Nwabueze on his pioneering appointment, Governor Oborevwori commended the office’s vital function in safeguarding taxpayer rights, offering cost-free mediation for disputes, and ensuring accountability across tax administration processes.

“Our administration strongly endorses the Tax Ombud Office’s mission to advance transparency, mitigate inequitable practices, and foster public trust in the taxation system. These goals are closely aligned with Delta State’s ongoing reform agenda,” Oborevwori stated.

He further revealed that the state government is harmonizing its regulations with the National Tax Reform Law of 2025. This includes plans to repeal the Delta State Internal Revenue Service Law of 2020 and introduce a consolidated taxes and levies law by 2026. These measures are designed to eliminate duplicate taxation, enhance the business climate, and increase internally generated revenue.

The Governor stressed that citizen fairness remains a cornerstone of the new tax framework, affirming that his government will continue to implement policies that promote public welfare while reinforcing revenue streams.

As a demonstration of support, Oborevwori pledged to provide immediate office accommodation for the Tax Ombud Office within the state, in accordance with the Federal Government’s objective of cultivating an effective and just tax system.

Citing recent achievements, the Governor noted that Delta State has been ranked among Nigeria’s top ten states in the 2025 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index, an accolade awarded by a respected assembly of online media editors. He attributed this recognition to persistent reforms and a steadfast focus on sound governance.

In his address, Dr. Nwabueze thanked the Governor for the hospitable reception, noting that his visit held both professional and personal significance as his first official engagement in the South-South region since his appointment and as a native of Delta State.

He confirmed Delta State’s appointment as the Zonal Headquarters for the South-South geopolitical zone, which encompasses six states—a decision that underscores the state’s rising economic and fiscal prominence.

Dr. Nwabueze expressed confidence that the collaboration between the Tax Ombud Office and the Delta State Government will cultivate a more efficient, transparent, and conducive tax environment for businesses and citizens alike.

He clarified that the Office of the Tax Ombud, founded under the Joint Tax Board Establishment Act of 2025, operates as an independent and neutral body tasked with resolving complaints pertaining to taxation, including levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, and excise-related issues.