Warri – A chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and community leader, Chief Hon. Solomon Okporua Ighrakpata, has called on Christians across the country to embrace love, unity, and compassion as they celebrate Easter, stressing that the essence of the season is being gradually lost.
Ighrakpata, in his Easter message issued in Warri on Sunday, said the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolise sacrifice, redemption, and love for humanity, urging Christians to reflect these virtues by caring for one another, especially those within their communities.
He noted that Easter should not be limited to personal and family celebrations alone but should be a period for reaching out to neighbours, the less privileged, and those in need.
According to him, “Jesus Christ died for our sins and redeemed mankind. As we celebrate Easter, we must show genuine love to one another. It should not be about making sure only you and your family are comfortable, but a time to check on your neighbours and extend a helping hand to those around you.”
The APC chieftain further urged Christian leaders and clergy to focus more on preaching salvation and moral rebirth rather than prosperity messages, noting that spiritual growth and unity were crucial for national development.
He called on clerics to use the Easter period to promote peace, love, and righteousness among Nigerians, adding that such values would help strengthen the nation’s social fabric.
Ighrakpata also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging citizens to back their policies and programmes for continuity and development.
He expressed optimism that with sustained support and prayers, both leaders would deliver more democratic dividends and advance the growth of the state and the country.
Ighrakpata, however, wished Christians a peaceful and fulfilling Easter celebration and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful for a better future.
UGHELLI – The People’s Choice and chieftain Of APC, Chief Barr Fred Okiemute Majemite, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, hope, and national progress as Christians across the world celebrate Easter Sunday.
Majemite, in his Easter message, congratulated Christian faithful and families on the celebration, describing the season as a time for sober reflection on the state of the nation and the need for collective commitment toward national development.
He noted that Easter symbolises sacrifice, redemption, and renewed hope for humanity, stressing that the death of Jesus Christ has washed away the sins of mankind and offered a new path for love, peace, and unity.
According to him, Nigerians must seize the opportunity provided by the Easter season to unite across ethnic, political, and religious divides in order to revive hope and restore confidence in the country’s future.
Majemite further urged citizens to use the celebration to reflect on the current challenges facing Nigeria, adding that unity among Nigerians would bring back hope and ensure progress for the common man.
He also called on Christians to celebrate with love, compassion, and generosity, particularly towards the less privileged, while praying for peace, stability, and prosperity in Nigeria.
“As we celebrate Easter with our families and friends, let us remain committed to the ideals of unity, sacrifice, and love, which the season represents. Our unity will bring hope alive again and strengthen the foundation for national growth,” he stated.
Majemite, however, wished Christians across Nigeria and the world a peaceful and joyful Easter celebration.
The President-General of Ogoni-Olomu Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Prince Sony Jifas Ogbon, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to renew the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, citing its transformative impact across communities in the Niger Delta region.
Prince Ogbon made the appeal in a statement issued to AjAZIRALReport Newspaper, where he commended the Federal Government for entrusting Tantita with the critical responsibility of safeguarding oil pipelines, noting that the company has played a significant role in reducing crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
According to him, the deployment of Tantita operatives has ushered in a new era of relative peace and stability in oil-producing communities that were previously plagued by illegal bunkering, environmental degradation, and insecurity.
“Before the intervention of Tantita, our communities faced serious security and environmental challenges. Today, there is a remarkable improvement, with reduced cases of oil theft and increased engagement of local youths,” he stated.
The community leader emphasized that beyond strengthening security, the surveillance contract has generated meaningful employment opportunities for youths across the region, helping to curb crime and restiveness while promoting economic inclusion and community development.
He, however, urged the management of Tantita to expand its operational framework to ensure that all oil-producing communities benefit equitably from the initiative.
Prince Ogbon stressed that broader inclusion would deepen local participation and strengthen community ownership of pipeline protection efforts.
“While we commend the good work being done, it is important that Tantita carries every oil-producing community along. This will foster unity, fairness, and collective responsibility in safeguarding our resources,” he added.
He further noted that renewing the contract would consolidate the gains already recorded, including increased oil production, improved national revenue, and enhanced environmental protection.
Prince Ogbon concluded by expressing optimism that sustained collaboration between the Federal Government, Tantita, and host communities would guarantee lasting peace, stability, and development across the Niger Delta region.
Ughelli – Pprince Sony Jifas Ogbon, a prominent political figure and community leader, has commended fmr. Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, for his impactful leadership and contributions to the development of Delta State, declaring emphatically that “Agege is coming.”
Ogbon made the assertion during an interaction with supporters in Ogoni-Olomu, Ughelli South Local Government Area, where he praised Omo-Agege’s track record in governance, empowerment initiatives, and infrastructural development across the state.
Describing Omo-Agege as a visionary and people-centred leader, Ogbon noted that his tenure as Deputy Senate President ushered in meaningful progress for Delta State and the wider Niger Delta region, adding that his leadership style continues to resonate with the grassroots.
“Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has demonstrated capacity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of our people. His achievements in office and strong grassroots connection clearly set him apart as a leader we can trust,” Ogbon stated.
He further highlighted the former lawmaker’s empowerment programmes and legislative interventions, which he said positively impacted numerous lives across Delta State, particularly in the areas of youth development, employment opportunities, and community advancement.
Reaffirming his support, Ogbon expressed strong confidence in Omo-Agege’s political future, stressing that the former Deputy Senate President continues to enjoy widespread acceptance among the people.
“I want to assure Deltans that Agege is coming. The support base is strong, the people are ready, and the momentum is steadily building across the state. We are fully committed to ensuring that his vision for Delta State becomes a reality,” he said.
Ogbon also called on the people of Delta State to rally behind experienced and credible leaders capable of driving sustainable development, unity, and good governance.
Senator Omo-Agege, who represented Delta Central Senatorial District and served as Deputy Senate President from 2019 to 2023, remains a key figure in the political landscape of Delta State, with growing support ahead of future political contests.
Foremost Niger Delta philanthropist and Chairman of the Delta state mini football association, Dr. Mulade Sheriff, and the President of the Mini Football Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Datti Umar Yusuf have stormed Portugal to witness the biggest grassroots football tournament in the world.
Ambassador Mulade, who double as Vice President, Nigeria Mini Football Association said it is paramount to explore this trip to gain more knowledge to help launch and enhance his Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy.
He said he is impressed with the ongoing IBERCUP, 2026. Which is being attended by over 400 football teams from more than 30 countries in the world, for under 10-18 years old.
“It’s beautiful and amazing to see kids between the ages of 10-18 from different parts of the world displaying their soccer skills in a very good atmosphere where they can easily be picked by scouts,” he said.
“It’s a great place to be, and honestly, it encourages one to invest in the round leather game. Four teams from Nigeria are here, mainly from the northern part of the country and they are doing very well. I can see why they have an advantage because of the lengths they go to expose their players.”
He advised Niger Delta stakeholders and political office holders to support and encourage grassroot sports that would create opportunities for our youths and attract tourism development to the region.
OWERRI – The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently consider the creation of a Christian sovereign state in Northern Nigeria and the establishment of Anioma State in the South-East following the recent Palm Sunday killings in Jos, Plateau State.
The Guild, under the leadership of its Acting Nat’l President, Comr. Akpovoke Otiti, made the call in a statement issued on Thursday, April 2, 2026, in OWERRI and jointly signed by the Acting Nat’l Secretary, Comr. Prince Collins Uba.
GOMEP said it aligned with the position of the Ohanaeze Youth Council, which also condemned the attack that reportedly claimed the lives of over 50 Christians during Palm Sunday celebrations, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
The group described the killings as a coordinated assault allegedly carried out by extremist elements, warning that the recurring attacks against Christian communities in Northern Nigeria had created fear, displacement and uncertainty among residents.
According to the statement, the persistent violence against Christians points to a growing security concern that requires urgent and decisive intervention from the Federal Government to prevent further loss of lives.
“The continued attacks on Christian communities, particularly the recent Palm Sunday killings in Jos, have heightened fears about the safety and future of Christians in Northern Nigeria,” the Guild stated.
GOMEP further noted that repeated incidents of violence, coupled with what it described as insufficient response mechanisms, had left many communities vulnerable and exposed to continued threats.
The Guild also advocated for a referendum or plebiscite to allow affected communities determine their future within the Nigerian federation, stressing that peaceful coexistence must be anchored on justice, equity and security for all citizens.
It added that the call for the creation of a Christian sovereign state and Anioma State was borne out of growing concerns over safety, cultural preservation and adequate political representation.
The media body further urged the Federal Government and the international community to take proactive measures to address the recurring violence and ensure the protection of lives and property across the country.
GOMEP warned that failure to address the root causes of the crisis could further deepen tensions and widen divisions, stressing that urgent action was necessary to restore confidence and prevent further tragedies.
The statement was jointly signed by Comr. Akpovoke Otiti, Acting National President, and Comr. Prince Collins Uba, Acting Nat’l Secretary of the Guild.
The story of effective representation is best told through visible impact. In Warri South West State Constituency of Delta State, South-South Nigeria, that narrative is steadily unfolding under the leadership of Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
First elected in 2019, Guwor represents a constituency predominantly made up of two major ethnic nationalities—the Ijaws and the Itsekiris. As he marks his 47th birthday on April 1, 2026, his commitment to grassroots development remains evident.
From the onset, he pledged to traverse the 10 wards of the constituency with impactful, legacy projects designed to outlive generations.
Re-elected in 2023 in recognition of his outstanding first-term performance, the youthful and energetic former student union leader has remained focused on meeting the needs and aspirations of his constituents through responsive and people-oriented representation.
Widely regarded as a leader shaped by destiny, grace, and consistent favor, Guwor was elected Speaker of the 8th Delta State House of Assembly at its inauguration, with strong backing from colleagues and key stakeholders across the state.
Within two months of his emergence as Speaker, Delta State, he was elected Treasurer of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria—an indication of the confidence reposed in him by his peers nationwide.
Demonstrating humility, integrity, and diligence, he was further elevated on February 9, 2026, to a higher leadership position within the Conference during an extraordinary session held in Abuja. He is presently the Chairman of the Conference and has shown capacity in advancing the goals of the group.
Back in his constituency, Rt Hon Guwor’s stewardship reflects a deliberate and strategic commitment to bridging infrastructure gaps, improving livelihoods, and laying a sustainable foundation for long-term development in communities in Warri South West Local Government Area.
Across the constituency, numerous projects in education, healthcare, road construction, housing, and economic infrastructure attracted to the locality by the calm and calculated Legislator, highlight a holistic approach to good governance and a deep desire to positively impact lives.
A recent visit shows that in the education sector, the construction of Raymond Primary School in Costain, alongside projects in Oporoza and Naifor Island, as well as the renovation of classroom blocks at Battan and Bisobo Primary Schools, Pina-Zion, underscores a strong investment in human capital development by the Right Honourable Speaker.
These initiatives are expanding access to quality learning environments, especially in underserved communities in the Constituency.
Healthcare delivery has also received notable attention the Lawmaker, particularly with the Ogidigben Hospital project. In riverine communities where access to medical services is often challenging, such investments are critical. The hospital is expected to reduce mortality rates, improve maternal healthcare, and enhance overall community wellbeing.
Road infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of Guwor’s representation in Ward South West. Strategic road projects—including Ogidigben, Madangho, Kantu, Ijaghalla, and the Okerenkoko–Pepeama–Kokodiagbene Road—are gradually improving connectivity within and between communities.
These roads serve not just as transport routes but as economic lifelines that facilitate trade, mobility, and social integration.
Complementing these efforts is the construction of a concrete landing jetty at Opuedebubor, strengthening water transportation—an essential mode of movement in riverine areas.
Economic empowerment is also a key focus. The development of modern markets in Ugborodo and Oporoza provides structured commercial hubs, stimulates local economies, and creates opportunities for small-scale businesses. Similarly, the DESOPADEC town hall in Oporoza, awarded following effective collaboration with the Commission, is to enhance grassroots governance and community engagement.
Housing initiatives in Akpakpa and Kantu, alongside DESOPADEC-supported housing schemes in other parts of the Constituency, address the growing need for shelter and improved living conditions. These projects contribute to community stability and reinforce social cohesion.
Another notable intervention is the installation of solar-powered street lighting across various communities. Beyond improving safety and visibility at night, these projects promote sustainable energy use and extend economic activities into evening hours.
Taken together, these interventions and many others laudable efforts of Rt Hon Guwor towards uplifting standards in Warri South West, represent more than a list of achievements. They reflect a coherent, inclusive, and sustainable development agenda. The distribution of projects across multiple communities demonstrates a strong commitment to equitable representation.
Looking ahead, the future of Warri South West Constituency appears promising. With sustained focus on project completion, maintenance, and expansion into areas such as youth empowerment, digital infrastructure, and environmental resilience, the foundation already laid can drive even greater transformation. Strengthened collaboration with the State Executive Council led by His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor Delta State and partnerships with agencies like DESOPADEC, and SUBEB, will further accelerate the development efforts.
In essence, Emomotimi Dennis Guwor’s leadership exemplifies responsive, people-centered governance—where promises translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens. If sustained, this trajectory will not only elevate Warri South West but also set a benchmark for effective constituency representation across Delta State and beyond.
Indeed, Warri South West is undergoing significant transformation through the tireless efforts of its representative, who by divine grace and benevolence of his respected colleagues is the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly. As he marks his 47th birth anniversary, it is reassuring that his commitment to people-focused governance is evident in an ambitious agenda aimed at improving quality of life through strategic interventions.
From education to healthcare, infrastructure to economic empowerment, Guwor’s initiatives are thoughtfully designed to meet pressing needs, expand opportunities, and nurture future generations of leaders.
Efforts to bring specialized healthcare closer to the people will ease the burden on existing facilities and ensure timely access to medical services.
As a predominantly riverine constituency, infrastructure development remains a top priority. His projects continue to enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, unlock economic opportunities and forward-looking to sustainable development.
Guwor’s several economic empowerment programmes are also being strengthened to create jobs, stimulate entrepreneurship, and boost local revenue generation.
Through strategic collaboration with critical stakeholders and partners, the Speaker will continue to deliver impactful results aimed at improving living standards across communities in Warri South West.
These projects underscore his unwavering commitment to the constituency and with continued support from constituents, Warri South West stands poised to enjoy the enduring benefits of good governance, improved infrastructure, and expanded economic opportunities.
The prospects are bright and with Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor (aka Ama-Ekisi) at the helm, the future indeed looks promising.
Nkem Nwaeke is the Chief Press Secretary, CPS to the Speaker.
Niger Delta born renowned human and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to adopt bold and pragmatic steps to stop Nigerians from dying silently and publicly as a result of hunger, hardship, and insecurity challenges in the country.
Mulade made the call in a statement he released to news men on Tuesday, wherein he expressed his displeasure over political office holders’ bid to seeking election while less attention to the level of hunger and poverty felt across the nation.
“We must rise above the challenges and stop the avoidable deaths of Nigerians on daily basis because of leadership failure towards citizens welfare and protection,” Mulade charged.
The United Nations peace ambassador, said the Niger Delta region is a bit calm because of the massive engagements of the youths by pipeline surveillance contractors.
He said, “It is imperative to state that the current saving grace in the Niger Delta particularly the oil and gas sector is because of the current pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, the Pipeline Infrastructure Limited etc., who have helped to engage majority of the youths and create some level of economic stability in the region.
“If not, the insecurity situation in the region would have been worse off than in the North East, West and Central, which may have thrown Nigeria into serious economic meltdown,” he noted.
The Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State strongly appealed to President Tinubu to sustain the current pipeline surveillance contracts to save our dwindling economy from further deteriorating, especially as we approach the 2027 general elections.
He emphasized strongly on the needs to protect lives and properties which is the primary responsibility of government.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, should not abandoned the protection of its citizens and concentrate on reelection bid.
“It is worthy of note that Nigerians are losing trust and confidence in our government at all levels because it seems political office holders are more concerned with the syndrome of holding unto power instead of creating economic stability, citizens welfare, development and protection.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR must act now to save Nigerians and our dire nation from collapsing; we must work to be truly the economic giant of Africa, not just in population and landmass,” he added.
UGHELLI – Chief Samuel Akpimegi has paid warm tribute to the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, on the occasion of his 61st birthday, describing him as a rare embodiment of humility and principled leadership. In a statement marking the anniversary, Akpimegi noted that Onyeme’s public life continues to inspire confidence across political and social divides.
He observed that the Deputy Governor’s conduct in office reflects a calm strength and measured disposition, qualities which, he argued, have contributed significantly to stability within the state’s leadership structure.
According to Akpimegi, Onyeme has remained steadfast in service, placing duty above personal acclaim. Akpimegi further remarked that Onyeme’s humility is “second to none,” a trait he said distinguishes him in an era often characterised by self promotion. He praised the Deputy Governor’s ability to lead without ostentation, adding that such restraint has earned him enduring respect among colleagues and constituents alike.
In celebrating the milestone, the Ughelli North political figure described Onyeme as a role model for emerging leaders, particularly in demonstrating that effective governance need not be loud to be impactful. He emphasised that the Deputy Governor’s approach to leadership offers a template grounded in integrity and quiet diligence.
The commendation also highlighted Onyeme’s contributions to the broader development agenda of Delta State, with Akpimegi noting that his supportive role within the administration has been both strategic and stabilising. He suggested that such partnership at the top tier of government remains vital for sustained progress.
Akpimegi concluded by extending his best wishes to the Deputy Governor, expressing hope for continued strength, wisdom and good health in the years ahead, as he continues to serve the state with what he described as “grace, discipline and uncommon humility.”
ABUJA – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ratified the outcome of the ward, local government, state and zonal congresses in Delta State and some other states, following a motion moved at the party’s National Convention held in Abuja.
The motion was moved by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, who called on the convention to formally approve and regularise the congresses conducted across the affected states.
Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that the National Executive Committee (NEC) had, in 2024, approved the conduct of congresses at various levels, particularly in states and the South-South zone where the tenure of executives had expired.
According to her, the rectification became necessary to strengthen party structures and ensure continuity of leadership across all levels of the PDP.
The motion received overwhelming support from delegates at the convention, with Ambassador Zainab Audu rising to adopt and second the proposal for ratification.
With the adoption, the PDP has effectively sealed all processes relating to the congresses, thereby affirming the legitimacy of the newly constituted executives in Delta State and other affected areas.
AljaziralPress 