By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has delineated an integrated strategy being executed by his government to rectify enduring electricity shortages throughout the state, merging regulatory reforms with intensive infrastructure enhancement to elevate power accessibility and catalyze economic expansion.

While commissioning the refurbished 31-kilometer Ohoror–Bomadi Road on Tuesday, the governor announced that multiple communities deprived of electrical supply for more than ten years have now been reintegrated into the national grid, markedly elevating living conditions and unlocking fresh commercial prospects.

Oborevwori clarified that his administration is adopting a systematic and forward-looking methodology to overcome power deficiencies through the expansion of 33KV transmission networks, deployment of new transformers, and the refurbishment of essential electrical installations in historically neglected localities.

“We are implementing calculated and actionable initiatives to resolve electricity supply constraints across Delta State. Current endeavors include extending 33KV lines, erecting transformers, and rehabilitating vital power infrastructure,” the governor affirmed.

He highlighted that the ratification of the Delta State Electricity Law, together with the endorsement of the State Electricity Policy by the Executive Council, has established a robust statutory and operational foundation to more efficiently address power sector obstacles.

The Governor remarked: “As a sub-national entity, we are acutely conscious of the electrical inadequacies in certain regions. Equipped with these policy mechanisms, we are now better prepared to propel sustainable advancements in electricity provision.”

Oborevwori further revealed that a distinguished electricity consultancy has been enlisted to oversee the execution of the administration’s MORE Agenda within the power domain.

He indicated that the firm is presently undertaking an exhaustive evaluation of electrical infrastructure statewide, with a conclusive report anticipated shortly to inform subsequent remedial actions.

Detailing ongoing undertakings, Oborevwori stated that the government has prolonged 33KV overhead lines and installed six distribution transformers in Ode-Itsekiri, Orugbo, Ajigba, Inorin, Usele, and Ugbodede communities within the Warri South-West Local Government Area. He projected that the endeavor would be finalized before year-end.

In Ndokwa East Local Government Area, the governor reported the enhancement of a 2.5MVA transformer to a 5MVA, 33/11KV injection substation at Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North—a modernization that has reinstated electricity to communities enduring over a decade without power.

He added that comparable interventions are progressing in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, where distribution transformer substations are being furnished to six communities to ameliorate electricity allocation.

Oborevwori also noted that the repair of the defective 33KV high-tension line from Ogbe-Ogume to Kwale has been concluded, while rehabilitation continues on a 7.5MVA injection substation in Kwale, supplemented by the deployment of extra distribution transformers.

The governor conveyed that initiatives are also in progress to reactivate long-dormant power facilities in other sections of the state, following requisite approvals from the State Executive Council.

He credited accomplished advancements to conducive federal policies and recognized the contribution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in fostering an environment that empowers sub-national governments to enhance infrastructure implementation.

“These accomplishments would remain unattainable absent the economic restructuring and prescient leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he acknowledged.

Beyond power sector activities, the governor confirmed that authorizations have been issued for erecting new police divisions across local government areas in preparation for State Police, as well as an advanced Special Protection Unit base to reinforce the state’s security framework. He instructed the Ministry of Lands and Survey to initiate land procurement for these ventures.

Reiterating his government’s dedication to broad-based and consultative governance, Oborevwori assured citizens that the MORE Agenda would persistently be enacted with impartiality, integrity, and equality.

He declared: “We maintain our resolve to fulfill our commitments. We shall persist in heeding public input, welcoming productive critique, and cooperating in the genuine ethos of democratic engagement.”

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.