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Delta Assembly Declares Udu Constituency Seat Vacant After Egbetamah’s Party Switch

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 officially declared the Udu State Constituency seat, previously held by Hon. Collins Egbetamah, vacant.

The decision followed Egbetamah’s departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his subsequent affiliation with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The declaration was initiated by a motion from the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo.

The motion received unanimous approval during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

Speaker Guwor stated that the seat was declared vacant in accordance with Section 109(1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

He instructed the Clerk of the House to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of this resolution.

“Accordingly, this Honourable House is satisfied that the constitutional requirements under Section 109 of the Constitution have been fulfilled.

Therefore, pursuant to Section 109(1) and (2), I hereby declare the seat of the Honourable Member representing Udu State Constituency vacant with immediate effect,” Guwor stated.

This quote emphasizes the legal basis for the House’s decision, confirming that all necessary constitutional conditions for declaring the seat vacant due to a party defection were met.

Guwor further directed the Clerk to transmit the resolution to INEC and other pertinent authorities.

He requested that INEC undertake the necessary constitutional steps to organize a by-election to fill the vacancy, as stipulated by Section 116(2) of the Constitution.

Presenting the motion, titled “Consideration of the Letter from Honourable Member Representing Udu State Constituency Pursuant to Section 109 of the Constitution,” Hon. Nwaobi highlighted that documents before the House confirmed Egbetamah’s defection from the APC to the NDC while still serving his term.

He referenced Section 109(1)(g), which mandates that a member must relinquish their seat if they join another political party after being elected under the banner of a different party, unless specific constitutional exceptions apply.

Earlier, the Speaker had read Egbetamah’s resignation letter, dated June 19, 2026. In the letter, Egbetamah informed the House that he had resigned from the APC on April 30, 2026, to pursue his political ambitions, and expressed gratitude to the APC and its stakeholders for their support.

Governor Oborevwori Orchestrates Resolution of DELSUTH Impasse, Initiates Comprehensive Revitalization of Tertiary Medical Facility

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By Sunday Apah

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday, definitively quelled the protracted industrial disquiet that had beleaguered the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of the State.

During a sequestered convocation, the Governor further mandated the immediate implementation of measures designed to ameliorate the institution’s persistent infrastructural and electrical exigencies.

Professor Harrison Abedi, the Chief Medical Director of DELSUTH, revealed this to members of the press in Asaba, subsequent to a crucial discourse with Governor Oborevwori.

He articulated profound gratitude for the Governor’s sagacious and timely intercession, which, he asserted, had resuscitated optimism among the teaching hospital’s administrative and operational echelons.

He elucidated that the Governor personally extended an invitation to the hospital’s executive body for deliberative engagement, thereby successfully disentangling the intricate issues that had precipitated the labour unrest at the state’s paramount tertiary medical institution.

Furthermore, he remarked that the Governor judiciously utilized this opportunity to confront an array of enduring impediments confronting the establishment, particularly the protracted power outage that had, for the preceding fortnight, critically disrupted both hospital operations and water provision.

Professor Abedi divulged that the state administration had already conferred a contractual agreement for the restoration of consistent electrical power to the hospital, adding that the Ministry of Energy had commenced the execution of said mandate.

He elaborated that they were apprised during the meeting of the procurement of a novel high-tension transformer, destined to furnish the hospital with a dedicated 33KVA power conduit, which was presently being transported from Lagos by the designated contractor for subsequent installation.

“The Governor has furnished us with assurances that the electrical dilemma shall imminently be relegated to the annals of history. We are appreciative that the Ministry of Energy has commenced decisive action, and we anticipate the imminent arrival of the transformer,” he affirmed.

Beyond the scope of the electrical infrastructure project, the Chief Medical Director indicated that Governor Oborevwori had directed him to collaborate assiduously with the Commissioner for Health to guarantee the holistic rehabilitation and modernization of the teaching hospital.

Professor Abedi posited that the projected revitalization would address the institution’s anachronistic infrastructure and augment the efficacy of healthcare service delivery. He concurrently expressed sanguine expectations that the Governor’s intervention would sway the dissenting unions to suspend their industrial action and recommence their professional duties.

He articulated: “We are confident that the unions will re-evaluate their stance, and we harbor fervent hopes that the industrial action will be rescinded promptly. Upon such occurrence, normative services shall recommence instantaneously, and DELSUTH will revert to full operational capacity.”

The Chief Medical Director lauded Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering commitment to fortifying the state’s healthcare paradigm, characterizing the intervention as an unequivocal demonstration of responsive and populace-centric governance.

Former CAN President Urges Ughievwen People to Embrace Christianity for Progress

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By Sunday Apah

For President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and founder of Word of Life Bible Church, Warri, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has urged the people of the Ughievwen kingdom to sincerely embrace Christianity, presenting it as the definitive path to economic prosperity and significant infrastructural advancement within the region.

Oritsejafor conveyed this message during a courtesy visit on Thursday to His Royal Majesty, Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, the Okobaro of the Ughievwen kingdom, at his palace in Otughievwen, the administrative center of Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The visit preceded his attendance at a one-day prayer gathering in the Oginibo community.

Oritsejafor, accompanied by Archbishop Solomon Gbakara and other team members, received a warm welcome at the palace from the Okobaro and several prominent chiefs of the kingdom.

Oritsejafor explained that his visit to the Okobaro was to inform him of his presence in the kingdom for a spiritual event.

He emphasized that Christianity introduces transformative enlightenment to any community and encouraged the Ughievwen people to emulate their traditional ruler, whom he described as a devout individual, and to fully commit to following Jesus Christ.

The leader of the Word of Life Bible Church also stressed the importance of peace throughout the Ughievwen kingdom and advocated for collective unity to attract substantial infrastructure and economic growth to the area.

The respected clergyman appealed to the Ughievwen community, both residents and those abroad, to show due respect to the throne and to actively support their traditional ruler.

He characterized the Okobaro as a blessing to the kingdom and a revered monarch for whom he holds deep regard.

In response, the Okobaro of Ughievwen kingdom, welcomed Oritsejafor and highlighted the spiritual benefits of his visit to both the palace and the wider kingdom.

He expressed optimism that the visit and associated prayers would usher in a new era of abundance and prominence for the kingdom.

The Okobaro commended Oritsejafor for allowing himself to be an instrument of divine will, working to dismantle and end the negative influences that have long impeded the development of communities across the kingdom, particularly through the one-day prayer program in Oginibo.

Reiterating that there is no substitute for experiencing God’s influence in one’s life, the Okobaro also called upon his subjects to genuinely follow God and enjoy His blessings.

A significant moment of the visit was Oritsejafor’s prayer for the Okobaro, his subjects, the kingdom, and Delta State as a whole.

Among those who joined the monarch in receiving the clergyman were Olorogun John Okoro, Olorogun Sunday Apah, Olorogun Anthony Osieta, Olorogun Joseph Narudu, Olorogun Mrs. Julie Itietie, Olorogun Mrs. Victoria Sajini, Queen Rose Egbi, Queen Joyce Egbi, and Miss Oke Edna Oluwa.

Oborevwori, Other Political Gladiators Storm Okwagbe to Honour Departed Sunday Kotor

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, spearheaded a formidable delegation of high-ranking government officials and influential political figures on Friday, as they convened to render their ultimate respects to the late Mr. Sunday Kotor.

The solemn funeral rites transpired in Okwagbe Waterside community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.

Kotor, a revered figure who served as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, concluded his earthly journey at the age of 63 on March 20, 2026. His passing leaves a void in the state’s administrative echelons.

The distinguished assembly at the poignant ceremony included the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and the formidable representative for Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Francis Waive.

Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama, Member Delta State House of Assembly, Ughelli South Constituency and numerous other members of the State House of Assembly, Commissioners, and an array of other senior government functionaries, political confederates, kin, and well-wishers also graced the occasion.

The funeral service, meticulously orchestrated on the expansive grounds of Okwagbe Secondary School, Okwagbe Waterside, drew a substantial congregation.

Attendees gathered en masse to commemorate the impactful life and enduring legacy of the departed public servant.

In a compelling sermon titled “Seizing Opportunities,” Rev. Dr. Ambrose Akpotor lauded the deceased as an individual who masterfully capitalized on every prospect presented to him.

He further underscored Kotor’s unwavering diligence and integrity throughout his dedicated service across various administrations.

The cleric emphasized Kotor’s exceptional distinction in public service, a testament to his steadfast commitment that garnered profound respect and admiration from both peers and associates.

He exhorted the congregation to emulate Kotor’s exemplary life by purposefully leveraging opportunities and embracing existences defined by intent, service, and spiritual conviction.

Profound prayers were offered for the bereaved Kotor family. The minister implored them to find solace in the profound impact of their patriarch’s life and the indelible legacy he bequeathed.

Governor Oborevwori Marks 63rd Birthday with Thanksgiving, Urges Continued Prayers for Leaders

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, observed his 63rd birthday with a thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel in Asaba on Friday.

During the service, he expressed profound gratitude for divine preservation and guidance in his leadership role.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized that the occasion was primarily for giving thanks to God rather than elaborate celebrations, highlighting God’s faithfulness and mercy.

As a devout Christian, he stated that expressing gratitude to God superseded any social festivities associated with his birthday. “I have come here to thank God.

The most important thing for me today is to give God thanks because He has kept me and sustained me. Every other celebration is secondary,” he remarked.

The governor thanked Deltans and his supporters for their consistent goodwill and backing, reaffirming his steadfast dedication to serving the state diligently. “I thank all those who have shown me love and support over the years. By the grace of God, I will continue to do my best to serve the people of Delta State and justify the confidence reposed in me,” Oborevwori pledged.

He appealed to citizens to persistently pray for those in authority, underscoring the need for divine guidance and wisdom in leadership. Oborevwori urged, “Pray for me, pray for the state, and pray for all those in authority. We need your prayers as we continue to serve. I believe that by God’s grace, everyone will have an opportunity to fulfil their purpose in life.”

He also praised the chaplaincy team for their commitment to maintaining regular worship activities at the chapel.

Earlier, in his sermon titled “What Is Your Prayer to God?”, Venerable Charles Osemenam, Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, congratulated the governor on his 63rd birthday. He prayed for God’s ongoing guidance for Oborevwori’s life and administration.

Drawing from 1 Kings 3:7-12, Osemenam stressed the importance of seeking divine wisdom, citing King Solomon’s example of effective governance through God-given insight.

The cleric noted Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to fostering peace, unity, and inclusive leadership across Delta State, attributing these virtues to divine grace. He added that governing a diverse state like Delta demands divine wisdom, patience, and a heart dedicated to peace.

Osemenam lauded the governor’s efforts in promoting harmony among the state’s various ethnic groups and communities, praying for increased wisdom and strength for him to continue leading the state towards peace, progress, and development.

The thanksgiving service saw the attendance of family members, government officials, political associates, clergy, and worshippers who joined in celebrating the milestone and offering prayers for the administration’s continued success.

A key moment of the service was the cutting of the birthday cake by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, joined by his wife, clerics, and senior government officials.

Apah Congratulates Governor Oborevwori on His 63rd Birthday Anniversary

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By Sunday Apah

As Delta State celebrates, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Olorogun Sunday Apah, has extended warm felicitations to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary, observed today, Friday June 19th, 2026.

In a statement released on Friday, Apah lauded Governor Oborevwori, describing him as a visionary leader whose dedication to the progress and development of Delta State is unwavering.

He highlighted the Governor’s commitment to good governance, which has translated into tangible benefits for the people across various sectors.

He noted that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style is characterized by empathy and a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of the diverse populace of Delta State.

The Senior Special Assistant emphasized the significant strides made under Governor Oborevwori’s administration, particularly in areas such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. These achievements, Apah noted, are a testament to the Governor’s strategic foresight and his relentless pursuit of a better future for all Deltans.

Apah pointed out that Governor Oborevwori has consistently demonstrated willingness to engage with citizens, listen to their concerns, and work collaboratively towards solutions.

Olorogun Sunday Apah offered prayers for Governor Oborevwori’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength as he steers the affairs of Delta State.

He expressed optimism that the Governor would continue to lead the state to greater heights, building on the solid foundation already established.

Oborevwori’s Aide, Sunday Kpikpi Kotor, to Be Laid to Rest June 26

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By Sunday Apah

Okwagbe Water Side, Delta State – The Kotor family of Okwagbe Water Side has announced the funeral arrangements for their patriarch, Mr. Sunday Kpikpi Kotor, also known as ILEWHERI, who passed away on Friday, March 20th, 2026, at the age of 63.

Until his demise, Mr. Kotor served as the Senior Special Assistant on Protocol to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State.

The funeral rites will commence on Monday, June 22nd, 2026, with a Day of Tribute at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, at 10:00 AM.

A Service of Songs will follow on Tuesday, June 23rd, at Faith Baptist Church, DSC Township, at 4:00 PM.

The final burial ceremony is scheduled for Friday, June 26th, 2026. At 8:30 AM, Mr. Kotor’s body will depart from the Nigerian Navy Hospital, Effurun, for his hometown of Okwagbe Water Side, Ughelli South LGA.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM at the Okwagbe Secondary School Field. Interment will follow at 1:00 PM in a private ceremony for family members only at his residence.

Guests will be entertained at the Okwagbe Secondary School Field, Okwagbe, starting at 1:30 PM.

The Kotor family, through Emuesiri Kotor for the children and Conference Kotor for the family, extends an invitation to friends, well-wishers, associates, colleagues, and the general public to join them in bidding farewell to Soni Kotor.

Delta APC Chairman’s Mother, Late Mrs. Arenyeka For Burial August 14

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By Sunday Apah

WARRI, DELTA STATE – The Arenyeka family has officially announced announced August 11, 12, 14, 15 and 16, 2026 as dates for the burial of their matriarch, Mrs. Felicia Olumewo Arenyeka, JP, also known as “Sisi,” who departed this life on April 24, 2026, at the age of 91.

Mrs. Arenyeka was a devoted mother to prominent figures, including Chief (Hon.) Solomon Arenyeka JP, Mnim, Chairman of the Delta State All Progressive Party; Barrister Victor Arenyeka, Director of the Legal Department at NDDC Headquarters, Port Harcourt; and Pastor Tony Arenyeka, Managing Director of Truck Masters, Lagos.

The family extends an invitation to friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to join them in celebrating Mama Felicia Olumewo Arenyeka’s remarkable life and bidding her a final farewell.

Prince Andrew Arenyeka JP, FNIM, former Registrar of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, and family spokesperson, who made this known in a released on Social Media, stated that on Tuesday, August 11, 2026: Evening of Hymns/Tributes Night at the Family Residence, AT&P Roundabout, Sapele, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Dress code: All white.

While on Wednesday, August 12, 2026: Service of Songs at First Baptist Church, Sapele, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Then on Friday, August 14, 2026: Lying in State at Chief Solomon Arenyeka’s Residence, Ubeji, Warri, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Service at First Baptist Church, Swamp Road, Warri GRA, at 10:00 AM. Interment will be a private family affair. A reception will follow at Ubeji Grammar School, Ubeji, Warri.

Also, on Saturday, August 15, 2026: Traditional Dance at Mama’s Residence, AT&P Roundabout, Sapele, at 2:00 PM.

On Sunday, August 16, 2026: Outing/Thanksgiving Service at First Baptist Church, Sapele, at 10:00 AM, with a reception afterwards at Mama’s Residence, AT&P Roundabout, Sapele

Police Arrest 32 Suspected Cultists, Recover Guns, Live Cartridges, Illicit Drugs

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By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Police Command, in its ongoing campaign against cultism, has arrested thirty-two (32) suspected cultists and recovered firearms, ammunition, communication equipment, and illicit drugs in separate intelligence-led operations.

In a statement issued by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, it was stated that some of the suspected cultists were arrested when operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), acting on credible intelligence in the early hours of June 16, 2026, stormed a suspected cult initiation ground at Agbarho following intelligence that members of the Eiye Confraternity, allegedly linked to recent cult-related killings in Agbor, were planning further acts of violence and the initiation of new members.

It noted that upon arrival at the location, the operatives came under gunfire from some of the suspects.

The police team responded professionally, during which two of the suspects sustained gunshot injuries.

The operation resulted in the arrest of twenty-five (25) suspects, while several others fled the scene.

Exhibits recovered during the operation include one (1) pump-action shotgun and one (1) cut-to-size firearm. The injured suspects are receiving medical treatment.

In a related development, operatives of the Command Anti-Cult Unit (CACU), acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected criminal hideout in Azagba-Ogwashi on June 14, 2026.

The operation led to the arrest of seven (7) suspected cultists, namely: Obore Ndubrisi (26), Okafor Okene (25), Odinigie Sunday (26), Okohur Destiny (21), Felix Abraham (25), Aputa Israel (27), and Okolie Chinonso Peter (24).

Exhibits recovered from the suspects include one (1) double-barrel gun, two (2) live cartridges, quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp and Tramadol, as well as a walkie-talkie.

The suspects and exhibits are currently in police custody while profiling and further investigations are ongoing.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the gallantry and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operations and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating cultism, violent crime, and other forms of criminality across the State.

Decomposed Bodies of Gbaregolor Couple Discovered in Delta Community

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…As Ewu Youth Association Demands Justice, Enhanced Security

By Sunday Apah

Ughelli North, Delta State – The decomposing remains of a husband and wife, yet to be formally identified, have been recovered by residents in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.

The discovery comes days after the couple, originally from Gbaregolor-Ewu community in Ughelli South, went missing from their residence behind a construction company in Ughelli North.

The Ewu-Urhobo Youth Association has vehemently condemned the brutal killing, describing it as a barbaric assault on human life.

Sources indicate that the husband had a recent dispute with herders whose cattle allegedly destroyed his newly molded building blocks.

A source close to the investigation revealed, “Days before that tragic incident, the man had an encounter with some herdsmen who used their cattle to destroy his newly molded blocks intended for their building.

Following this, we couldn’t locate them for several days. A search party was organized, leading to the discovery of the man with cuts on his body, and his wife, who was seemingly pursued into a swampy area before being fatally attacked with a machete.”

In a statement signed by President Comrade Erhiegueke Emmanuel and Acting Secretary Engr. Obukadeta E. Joseph, the Ewu-Urhobo Youth Association expressed profound shock and sorrow.

They urged the government and security agencies to ensure the swift apprehension and prosecution of those responsible.

“We received with shock and deep sadness the report of the brutal killing of a husband and wife from Gbaregolor Community, Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom,” the association stated.

“We strongly condemn this heinous and barbaric act. The loss of innocent lives under such circumstances is unacceptable and a grave assault on human dignity.”

The association underscored constitutional provisions guaranteeing the right to life and the government’s responsibility for citizen safety, asserting that these killings directly violate fundamental principles.

They called upon the Federal Government, Delta State Government, security agencies, and relevant authorities to launch a thorough investigation and ensure justice is served.

“We demand a comprehensive investigation into this incident, ensuring that the perpetrators are identified, arrested, prosecuted, and brought to justice in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

Expressing concern over persistent threats to lives and property in their communities, the association demanded increased security presence and proactive measures to prevent future attacks.

“The people of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom can no longer endure acts of violence, intimidation, and bloodshed.

“We demand greater security presence and proactive measures to protect lives, farmlands, and property across our kingdom.”

The group reiterated its rejection of all forms of criminality and violence, stating, “We will not accept continued attacks, killings, or threats against our people by any individual or group.

Our communities deserve peace, security, and justice under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” They also urged residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies.

The association offered prayers for the deceased and extended condolences to the bereaved family, the Gbaregolor Community, and the entire Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom, acknowledging the devastating impact of this tragic loss.

This incident has intensified security concerns in Ughelli North and South, prompting community leaders to call for urgent intervention from security agents.

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