Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has sanctioned a targeted cabinet reshuffle, effecting key portfolio exchanges among senior commissioners to enhance administrative efficiency and service delivery within the state government.
The redeployments are as follows: Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka has been transferred from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal to helm the Ministry of Energy.
Hon. Sunday Tataobuzogwu moves in the opposite direction, transitioning from the Ministry of Energy to oversee the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal.
Mrs. Rose Ezewu is reassigned from the Ministry of Secondary Education to lead the Ministry of Primary Education.
Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu shifts from managing the Ministry of Primary Education to the Ministry of Secondary Education.
This realignment, aimed at leveraging individual expertise to drive sectoral progress, takes immediate effect as officially communicated in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu.
In a similar development, Governor Oborevwori has ratified the nominations of distinguished persons to serve on the Governing Council of Delta State University, Abraka.
The appointees are: Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, Rt. Hon. Frank Enekorogha and Charles Ajuyah, SAN
The formal inauguration date for the new council members remains pending and will be disclosed in due course.
This move underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutional governance and academic excellence within the state’s premier university.
…Says Monarchs Indispensable to Effective Governance in Delta
By Sunday Apah
In a decisive affirmation of the pivotal role traditional institutions play in state governance, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday commissioned the distribution of 65 brand-new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, branding the vehicles as indispensable “instruments of service” to guardians of peace and community stability.
The formal handover ceremony, held at Government House, Asaba, witnessed the presentation of 60 Toyota Prados alongside five Toyota Land Cruisers, strategically bestowed to facilitate unrestricted mobility for the royal fathers throughout the diverse terrains of Delta.
Governor Oborevwori described the occasion as a landmark event in his administration’s tenure, emphasizing that the beneficiaries occupy a unique echelon of leadership whose critical yet often under-recognized contributions underpin grassroots governance.
“Traditional rulers transcend the boundaries of mere custodianship of culture and tradition; they are vital conduits linking government policies with grassroots realities,” the Governor affirmed, drawing from his extensive political experience rooted in community engagement.
Reiterating his administration’s unwavering dedication to establishing an inclusive economy underpinned by equity and justice, Oborevwori praised the monarchs for their steadfast support and indispensable role in ensuring governance is more accessible and effective across the state.
“The facilitation of governance by our traditional rulers cannot be overstated; their commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity remains unyielding,” he asserted.
The Governor highlighted the frontline responsibilities traditionally shouldered by these royal fathers—mobilizing communities, championing government initiatives, mediating disputes, and collaborating seamlessly with security agencies—often executed selflessly and without expectation of recompense.
“These vehicles are not mere luxuries; rather, they are rugged, functional tools tailored to navigate the formidable rural landscapes where many of our traditional rulers tirelessly operate,” he declared, underscoring their necessity for effective service delivery.
Framing this gesture within the broader spectrum of his MORE Agenda’s inclusive governance ethos, Oborevwori cited extensive social intervention policies successfully deployed under his leadership.
These include the disbursement of financial aid to over 307,600 vulnerable citizens under the DCARES Programme, empowerment grants for petty traders and artisans, youth and women support initiatives, and stipends to 10,000 widows, among others.
“This distribution today to our traditional rulers emanates not from favoritism but from an abiding principle of fairness and due recognition,” the Governor stated emphatically.
Acknowledging the deep respect and harmony shared between his administration and the traditional institutions, Oborevwori affirmed: “Your cooperation has never been a source of burden but rather a wellspring of warmth and cultural richness wherever I travel within your domains. This gesture is heartfelt and sincere.”
Earlier, Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme emphasized that the vehicle presentation symbolizes the government’s profound respect and appreciation for the traditional rulers’ indispensable role in sustaining peace, unity, and stability throughout Delta State.
In his welcome address, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, spotlighted the administration’s far-reaching developmental achievements, attributing the state’s progress to empathetic governance anchored in foresight and genuine commitment to the citizenry.
In gratitude, eminent monarchs including HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor, Obi of Owa; HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe I, Ovie of Uvwie; and HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), Pere of Ogulagha, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s foresight, acknowledging that the SUVs will significantly enhance their operational capacity in executing traditional duties.
HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, delivered a poignant vote of thanks, portraying the Governor’s gift as a timely and symbolic reinforcement of grassroots governance and societal peace.
He emphasized that mobility is paramount to the efficacy of traditional rulers and that the vehicles represent not only means of transport but powerful emblems of authority and service.
Assuring unwavering allegiance from the council of traditional rulers, Mujakperuo reaffirmed the royal fathers as custodians of heritage and indispensable partners to government at the grassroots level.
…Lauds Governor, Vows December 2026 Completion of Millennium City
By Sunday Apah
Prominent business titan and Chairman of the Cubana Group, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu, widely known as Obi Cubana, has extolled the leadership of Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, hailing his administration as resolutely God-fearing, people-centric, and relentlessly development-driven. Obi Cubana confidently asserted that Delta State “resides in exceptionally capable hands” under Governor Oborevwori’s stewardship.
These declarations were made during Obi Cubana’s official visit to Government House, Asaba, where he was accompanied by Pastor Jerry Eze, Founder of Streams of Joy International, who came to consecrate the Cubana Millennium City project to divine purpose.
The encounter underscored the strengthening alliance between private sector visionaries and the Delta State Government to accelerate urban transformation and attract robust investments to the region.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook account subsequent to the visit, Obi Cubana lauded Governor Oborevwori’s governance, characterizing him as an upright and development-focused leader.
“When righteousness occupies the throne, prosperity follows! Delta State is exceedingly fortunate to be led by a Governor anchored in faith and dedicated to progress. The state is unequivocally in strong and virtuous hands,” he declared.
Obi Cubana further expressed deep gratitude for the Governor’s accessibility and collaborative spirit, affirming: “Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, I am grateful for your consistent openness. Together, we are engineering a transformative renaissance for Delta.”
Regarding the Cubana Millennium City Asaba, the group’s chairman extolled the project as a transformative flagship development, dubbing it “the Crown Jewel on the Niger.”
He resolutely pledged adherence to the promised timeline, assuring stakeholders that the initial phase of the estate will be completed and ready for habitation by December 2026.
Conceived as a premier mixed-use estate, Cubana Millennium City Asaba is set to elevate Asaba’s profile as a burgeoning metropolitan and investment nucleus, perfectly aligned with the Oborevwori administration’s MORE Agenda aimed at expediting development, fostering economic vitality, and enhancing the living standards of all Deltans.
In a strategic move to bolster Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Delta State, Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori officially inaugurated a ₦1 billion revolving loan fund, partnering with the Bank of Industry (BoI) to administer the facility.
The agreement was formalized on Tuesday at the Government House in Asaba through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
During the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori hailed the initiative as a significant achievement toward fulfilling his administration’s goal of inclusive economic growth under the MORE Agenda.
He highlighted that the fund, sanctioned by the State Executive Council in early 2025, aims to eliminate persistent barriers to affordable financing for MSMEs.
“MSMEs form the backbone of any robust economy, providing the highest rates of employment and driving sustainable development,” the Governor emphasized.
“By offering access to capital at single-digit interest rates, we empower traders, artisans, agro-processors, and small manufacturers to expand operations, generate employment, and contribute substantially to our state’s prosperity.”
The revolving fund arrangement is intentionally designed to alleviate the heavy borrowing costs that have historically hampered entrepreneurial expansion, while ensuring a sustainable lending cycle.
Governor Oborevwori underscored the non-negotiable responsibility of beneficiaries to repay loans promptly, thus enabling the fund to continuously support other qualifying entrepreneurs.
“Our selection of the Bank of Industry as custodians of this fund reflects their unparalleled expertise as Nigeria’s premier development finance institution, featuring rigorous credit assessment and entrepreneurial support mechanisms,” he stated.
“This partnership transcends financial provision; it integrates crucial business development services essential for thriving in a competitive economic landscape.”
Reflecting on the state’s legacy of empowerment programmes, the Governor noted that reliance solely on grants could breed complacency and weaken accountability.
“This revolving loan model will instill financial discipline, enhance the appreciation of capital, and drive sustainable growth among entrepreneurs,” he explained, assuring that existing grant programs will persist alongside this initiative.
Originally slated for launch in December, the programme’s commencement was deferred to January to coincide with a period when entrepreneurs are strategically focused on business growth and renewal.
Looking forward, Governor Oborevwori expressed optimism about scaling the fund considerably based on its impact, envisioning potential expansions to ₦10 billion, ₦20 billion, or beyond, stressing that this initiative is merely a foundational step.
Speaking earlier at the event, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, lauded the collaboration as a pivotal instrument for driving enterprise development and sustainable economic prosperity in Delta State.
He affirmed that the revolving loan fund enhances MSMEs’ access to affordable capital while reinforcing the synergy between the state government and Nigeria’s foremost development finance institution.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our mandate to convert government policies into actionable financial solutions that address sectoral business challenges,” Olusi remarked.
“The Bank of Industry remains unwavering in its commitment to partnering with governments and private stakeholders to foster innovation, value creation, and competitiveness.”
He commended the Delta State Government’s dedication to economic advancement, describing the MoU as a definitive testament to the administration’s proactive approach to sustainable development.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced the start of sales for application forms for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) admissions for the 2026/2027 academic year.
This information was released in a statement signed by the Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, and posted on the Board’s verified X account on Tuesday evening.
JAMB invited applications from qualified candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The Board emphasized an age requirement, stating that only candidates who will be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, are generally eligible to apply. However, exceptions may be granted to younger applicants under strict evaluation conditions.
According to the statement, underage candidates must undergo a thorough assessment to qualify for a waiver.
Such candidates must have scored no less than 80% in UTME/A-Level, PUTME, SSCE, and exceptional candidate assessments.
JAMB further clarified that the UTME results for these underage candidates will only be released after the complete evaluation process is concluded.
Regarding registration timelines, the Board outlined that UTME registration—including for candidates from overseas—will run from Monday, January 26, 2026, through Saturday, February 28, 2026.
E-PIN sales for UTME candidates will begin earlier on Monday, January 19, 2026, and continue until Thursday, February 26, 2026, while the registration period will close on February 28, 2026.
Direct Entry applicants will be able to purchase application forms and E-PINs starting Monday, March 2, 2026, through Saturday, April 25, 2026. These will only be available at JAMB’s State and Zonal offices.
JAMB also outlined three categories of E-PINs with their respective costs: Direct Entry at ₦5,700; UTME without Mock at ₦7,200; and UTME with Mock at ₦8,700.
The fee breakdown includes: ₦3,500 for the UTME/DE application, ₦1,000 for the reading text, ₦700 for CBT Center registration service, ₦1,500 for the CBT Center UTME service charge, ₦500 for bank charges, and ₦1,500 for the CBT Mock-UTME Center charge.
The examinations are scheduled to begin on Thursday, April 16, 2026, and conclude on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
An optional Mock-UTME will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
In a formidable display of tactical prowess and unyielding resolve, the Delta State Police Command has dealt a crippling blow to a notorious kidnap syndicate terrorizing Ughelli.
Operatives of the elite CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) executed a high-stakes covert operation that uncovered and confiscated a cache of lethal firearms, live ammunition, and incriminating materials, striking at the very heart of violent crime networks in the area.
According to a chilling briefing issued by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, intelligence reports pinpointed the presence of no fewer than six armed kidnappers entrenched along a bush path in the Upper Agbarho enclave of Ughelli North Local Government Area.
“At approximately 2135 hours on January 11, 2026, ASP Julius Robinson led a meticulously coordinated strike force, in liaison with vigilant community operatives, to besiege and neutralize the criminal sanctuary situated within an unfinished building,” Edafe disclosed.
“The moment the operatives closed in, the suspects unleashed a hail of gunfire. Undeterred, our men retaliated with devastating precision, compelling the felons to retreat in disarray—wounded, weaponless, and vulnerable.”
The operation yielded the seizure of an FNC rifle armed with live rounds, a pump-action shotgun loaded with 32 rounds of deadly ammunition, alongside other critical evidentiary items.
All recovered materials have been secured, while an intensified manhunt has been launched to track and capture the fleeing criminals.
Reacting to the formidable operation, Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, unleashed unreserved commendation for the fearless valor and relentless determination exhibited by the CP-SAT operatives, highlighting their masterful and strategic deployment of intelligence that struck a decisive blow to entrenched criminal factions.
He emphatically reiterated the Command’s unwavering resolve to obliterate any foothold for criminal enterprises, issuing a grave and unyielding warning that Delta State will remain an unrelenting fortress—ruthlessly hostile and utterly unforgiving toward all manifestations of criminality.
The Urhobo ethnic group has sounded a grave warning against what it terms a deliberate and calculated marginalization of its people from influential positions in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. They urge the Federal Government to urgently rectify this injustice to prevent escalating unrest.
In a statement issued Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and jointly authorized by the Chairman of the Urhobo Nation Palace Representatives on Oil and Gas, Olorogun (Chief) Wilson Ejeben, alongside Secretary Dr. Igho Egbi, the Urhobo traditional rulers from 24 kingdoms voiced profound indignation concerning recent leadership appointments within the oil and gas sector.
The declaration underscores an acute observance of appointments made to the boards and senior management of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), highlighting the conspicuous exclusion of duly qualified Urhobo citizens.
Further, the statement censures both indigenous and multinational oil corporations operating in Urhobo oil-rich territories for ongoing neglect. It accuses these entities of exploiting natural resources without offering proportional opportunities in employment, contract distribution, skills development, or meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Labeling the current predicament as profoundly unjust, Urhobo leadership emphasizes that such exclusion violates the spirit and letter of Nigeria’s petroleum legislation, notably the Local Content Policy and Host Community Development requirements intended to prioritize indigenous participation.
“It is a glaring contradiction that the Federal Government enshrines a Nigerian Content Development Policy in the oil and gas sector while simultaneously marginalizing Urhobo representation in critical boards, commissions, and other strategic posts,” the statement asserts.
The leaders stressed Urhobo land’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s oil production, revealing that the region contains over 350 oil wells, more than 15 flow stations, and at least 12 fields, accounting for roughly 10% of national crude output.
Based on these facts, the Urhobo people demand an immediate halt and reversal of the entrenched exclusionary practices that have sidelined them from executive and managerial roles within the petroleum sector.
They call upon the Federal Government, relevant ministries, and regulatory bodies to implement urgent reforms, and urge oil companies and service providers to enhance their engagement and equitable distribution of benefits to the Urhobo host communities.
The statement cautions that sustained neglect threatens to severely impair relations between oil firms and the Urhobo kingdoms, emphasizing that justice, inclusivity, and fairness remain essential to maintaining peace and stability across the Niger Delta.
“The Urhobo people are resolved to take control of their destiny,” the communique declares, noting the growing anxiety and restiveness among youths and women nationwide.
The leadership closed with a stark appeal for prompt intervention, warning that failure to address these grievances could inflame tensions further, reminding all stakeholders that “a stitch in time saves nine.”
…Vows Unwavering Commitment to Transforming Ughelli South
By Sunday Apah
In a formidable demonstration of grassroots leadership, Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama, the Member representing Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, unleashed a powerful empowerment initiative, distributing ₦35 million in direct cash support to 190 constituents spread across the eleven federal wards of the local government area.
Each beneficiary received ₦200,000 aimed at scaling their petty trading and artisanal ventures.
The ceremony, held on Saturday, 10th January 2026, at Otu-Jeremi, saw Utuama provide a candid overview of the cash empowerment scheme.
He expressed profound gratitude to the people of Ughelli South for their unwavering support before, during, and after his election, pledging an unshakable dedication to effective and meaningful representation in the state assembly.
He confirmed that beneficiaries were meticulously vetted and selected by party leaders across the wards, emphasizing that many had already benefited from his discreet empowerment programs.
Utuama further vowed to expand the outreach in subsequent phases throughout the year, ensuring more constituents are enveloped in this transformative agenda.
Aligning the initiative with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s “More Agenda,” Utuama reaffirmed his relentless pursuit of elevating grassroots participation and urged recipients to utilize the funds judiciously to substantially improve their livelihoods.
Speaking at the empowerment event held at Otu-Ughievwen, the headquarters of Ughelli South Local Government Area, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, pledged that the eighth assembly remains steadfast in crafting legislations and executing oversight functions that will guarantee an enhanced quality of life for all Deltans under the aegis of Governor Oborevwori’s agenda.
While personally disbursing the funds alongside key political stakeholders from Ughelli South, Guwor declared that Hon. Festus Utuama is a tireless and distinguished legislator whose relentless contributions to bills and oversight duties have set him apart as a true representative of his people.
Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpovwowo, Guwor lauded Utuama’s impeccable attendance record in legislative sittings and urged the people of Ughelli South to consolidate their support for him, ensuring their rightful share in Governor Oborevwori’s developmental programs and projects.
Emphasizing the magnitude of Utuama’s commitment, Guwor praised the disbursement of over thirty-five million naira as a testament to his dedication to grassroots rejuvenation and constituent welfare.
He cautioned beneficiaries against misusing the funds, urging them to channel the resources towards expanding their trades and crafts.
In their remarks, several prominent figures, including APC National Leader in Ughelli South LGA, Olorogun John Oguma; Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo; Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Dr. Lucky Avweromre; Dr. Chris Oghenechowen; Chief Adelabu Bodjor; Mr. Simon Umudi aka Temple; and Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo, extolled Hon. Utuama for transcending his legislative duties to actively propel socio-economic upliftment through the empowerment initiative.
They pledged unwavering support for Utuama, Governor Oborevwori, and President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 agenda.
The political leaders unanimously hailed the cash empowerment as a monumental initiative that redefines grassroots representation and predicted it would significantly bolster the APC’s electoral prospects in the local government area.
Beneficiaries openly expressed heartfelt gratitude toward Hon. Utuama for the profound impact on their livelihoods, vowing to sustain their political allegiance well beyond 2027.
The highlight of the event was the ceremonial presentation of dummy cheques to beneficiaries by Hon. Festus Utuama, symbolizing a bold step toward economic empowerment and constituency development.
…Vows to Eradicate Ughelli’s Endemic Traffic Nightmares
By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday flagged off the groundbreaking of the monumental ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover project in Ughelli, declaring it an unyielding solution to the protracted and debilitating traffic paralysis at one of the state’s most congested intersections.
Speaking at the historic commercial nerve center of Ughelli, the governor heralded the project as a landmark achievement within his administration’s ambitious infrastructure overhaul.
He emphasized its synergy with the government’s strategic objectives of judicious resource management, resilient road construction, and the equitable opening of both urban and rural transport arteries to accelerate inclusive socio-economic development.
Governor Oborevwori underscored the explosive population surge in Ughelli, which has relentlessly strained its transportation network—particularly the notorious Otovwodo Junction along the East–West Road and allied major thoroughfares.
This junction, he affirmed, has long been a byword for gridlock, siphoning countless hours from the productivity of commuters daily. The governor personally attested to the agony inflicted by this traffic quagmire.
As a temporary palliative, his administration allocated nearly ₦6 billion towards constructing alternative routes such as Uduere Street, Okogbe Street, Oru Street, Edo Street, and Royal Avenue, all designed to interconnect with Agbarha-Otor Road and alleviate vehicular snarls pending the flyover’s completion.
The contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, was mandated to deliver the project within an unalterable 12-month timeframe, underscoring the intersection’s critical strategic significance.
The development entails a state-of-the-art multi-span reinforced concrete overpass equipped with dual carriageways, comprehensive roundabouts, and integrated roadworks to seamlessly link the East–West Road with adjoining arterial routes—thereby drastically reducing congestion, slashing travel times, enhancing road safety, and galvanizing commercial activities across the region.
Highlighting the socio-economic dividends, Oborevwori projected the creation of thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities across the project’s construction value chain.
He admonished residents to exercise patience and adhere strictly to traffic regulations throughout the construction period.
Reaffirming his unwavering commitment to fiscal discipline, the governor assured that all major infrastructure endeavors in Delta State will continue unfettered by external borrowing.
Moreover, he disclosed that several completed projects await official commissioning, with numerous others slated for flag-off in 2026 under the “Renewed Hope for MORE” development blueprint.
Earlier, Engr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, expressed profound gratitude for the confidence reposed in his firm, describing the commission as a testament to the company’s technical prowess and enduring partnership with Delta State.
He detailed that the 15-span flyover would encompass dual carriageways, connecting roads, specialized drainage infrastructure, and energy-efficient solar street lighting—promising adherence to global construction standards and timely execution.
Subsequent to the groundbreaking, Governor Oborevwori paid homage to the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and Chief Morrison Olori, founder and Chairman of Ukodo Nation, reiterating his inclusive governance mandate as the elected representative of all Deltans.
Local dignitaries, including Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Hon. Jaro Egbo, and the ‘Otota’ (spokesman) of Ughelli Kingdom, Chief Peter Akpofure, lauded the governor’s initiative, describing it as transformative and long overdue.
They seized the opportunity to press for the expansion of additional internal roads and supporting infrastructure to complement the flyover.
The momentous event drew the presence of key state figures such as Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Elder Omeni Sobotie, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC); distinguished members of the National Assembly, Hon. Francis Waive and Hon. Ngozi Okolie; senior government officials; revered traditional rulers; community leaders; and enthusiastic residents—who collectively acclaimed the project as a decisive stride towards obliterating Ughelli’s chronic traffic affliction.
The Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, has vehemently cautioned Itsekiri indigenes masquerading as community leaders before multinational oil corporations and prominent local operators.
These self-styled representatives, who embezzle funds designated for the advancement of their land and people into personal accounts, are hereby ordered to immediately cease such treacherous conduct in their own best interests.
Addressing his subjects at Jakpa—an ancestral stronghold of the Iwere Kingdom located in Warri North Local Government Area—following an inspection alongside media personnel of Chevron Nigeria Limited’s oil installations, the Monarch firmly declared that complacency and complicity will no longer be tolerated within his jurisdiction.
Clearly dismayed by the widespread deprivation and neglect afflicting his people across these communities, the Royal Father unleashed a scathing rebuke against the indigenous collaborators.
He accused them of betraying their brethren by feigning leadership before oil firms while clandestinely sacrificing the collective destiny of the Itsekiri nation to satisfy selfish ambitions.
In his own words: “Oil companies, whether foreign or domestic, exploit us only because those who present themselves as leaders among us willingly barter our shared future for personal profit. No external entity can subjugate us unless an insider deliberately unbars the gates.”
He went on to say, “These so-called leaders worship but one master—their own insatiable greed. This idolatry condemns the land to ruin. Clad in the guise of leadership, their avarice leaves the common people vulnerable to exploitation.”
“These impostors function as middlemen, enriching themselves by sowing dissent between our people, the oil corporations, and government,” the Monarch asserted.
Ogiame Atuwatse III declared that the kingdom will no longer stand idle as these greedy usurpers continue to don false masks of leadership and facilitate the exploitation of the Itsekiri nation on the global stage.
“We have endured these charlatans and opportunists long enough—those who manipulate and trade in the name of our people,” he proclaimed.
The Olu of Warri threatened dire consequences for those self-serving collaborators who place personal gain above the welfare of Itsekiri children and their communities, urging immediate repentance to avert ruin.
“To every Itsekiri collaborator who persists in sacrificing our future for selfish advantage, take heed: if you refuse to amend your ways, you shall become the Jonah in every boat you board,” he warned ominously.
He reaffirmed that the epoch of tolerance for such elements is over. A new era demands transparency, unity, and accountability if the Itsekiri nation is to progress.
The Monarch also expressed profound gratitude to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his commendable developmental initiatives within the Itsekiri nation, notably the ongoing construction of the Trans-Ode Itsekiri Road, urging continuation of such exemplary efforts.
He extended appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his attentive drive toward advancing the coastal regions of Nigeria.
In a related interview, Tuoyo Alaba, President of the Tebu Community Youth, lamented the persistent hardships despite Chevron’s presence in the area and implored Governor Oborevwori and Chevron to render urgent assistance.
Nonetheless, Alaba conveyed optimism that the recent visit by the Olu of Warri would herald transformative improvements for the people.
The event culminated in vibrant traditional dances, songs honoring the Monarch, and homage ceremonies by diverse communities expressing their deep appreciation for the royal visit.
