AljaziralPress

By: Philo Ezewu

The Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, on Saturday graduated a total of 5,922 students at its 8th Convocation Ceremony, with the management and the Delta State Government charging the graduates to uphold professionalism, discipline and ethical standards in the service of humanity.
The ceremony, which was held in an atmosphere of joy and celebration, attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, members of the Governing Council, parents, graduates and other stakeholders, who converged on the institution to celebrate academic excellence, resilience and perseverance.
In her welcome address, the Provost of the College, Dr. (Mrs.) Odiete Eravweroso Congrat, described the convocation as historic, noting that it was the first to be held under her leadership since her appointment in August 2025 by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. She disclosed that the exercise brought together graduates from 2017 to 2025, many of whom had waited for years to formally receive their certificates.
According to her, the convocation symbolised closure and restoration for the affected graduates, stressing that while certificates qualify them to practise, character would ultimately define their impact in society. She urged the new health professionals to uphold professionalism, discipline and compassion, assuring that her administration would continue to strengthen accreditation standards, improve infrastructure and promote staff development to reposition the college as a centre of excellence.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Dr. Chris Oharisi, congratulated the graduates and described the occasion as a celebration of diligence, perseverance and purpose, reminding them that the healthcare profession is both a privilege and a sacred trust that directly affects human lives.
Representing the Governor and Visitor to the institution, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, tasked the graduates to deploy their knowledge and skills to improve humanity and contribute meaningfully to society. He also encouraged them to pursue further studies, while commending the Governing Council and management for organising a convocation after a long interval.
Dr. Odiete, who expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government, regulatory bodies, traditional rulers, parents and partners of the college, also congratulated recipients of the institution’s Honorary Fellowship and Distinguished Personality Awards, describing them as role models whose achievements should inspire the graduating students.
The 8th Convocation Ceremony, which marked a major milestone in the history of the Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing competent, ethical and compassionate health professionals for Delta State and the nation at large.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

The recent call by Rev. Francis Ejiroghene  waive into a third term is not driven by the genuine interest of the people of Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency, but rather by clear signs of greed and self centred political ambition. At a time when our communities are battling poverty, unemployment and worsening social conditions, it is deeply disturbing that some individuals still promote personal advantage over collective progress.

A third term agenda, under the present circumstances, can only further impoverish the people and weaken the spirit of democratic representation. Leadership is meant to uplift the masses, not to recycle the same faces in power without measurable impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

Our constituency deserves more than political convenience and loyalty built around personal gains.
Sadly, the activities and legislative contributions of Hon. Ejiroghene at the Green Chambers remain largely unseen and unfelt by the people he was elected to serve.

Representation must be visible, accountable and impactful. Constituents should be able to point to clear projects, strong legislative advocacy and effective interventions that reflect their collective aspirations.

What Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency urgently needs are representatives with extraordinary performance, courage and commitment to public service,  not individuals who were hand picked, lobbied for and begged into office through elite arrangements that ignore the will of the people. Democracy thrives when leaders emerge through credibility and competence, not political patronage.

More troubling is the growing culture of betrayal of political alliances and community trust for personal comfort and material rewards. The idea that public loyalty and political principles can be traded for a Prado jeep or proximity to power, under the excuse of wanting to be “friends with the governor,” is a dangerous signal to young people and future leaders of this constituency.

The people of Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency must therefore rise above political manipulation and demand accountable, visionary and people centred leadership. Our future cannot be sacrificed on the altar of ambition and convenience. It is time to insist on genuine representation that truly reflects the hopes, struggles and development needs of our communities.

By Akpovoke Otiti

Chief Barr.  Fred Okiemute Majemite, a two time former Commissioner in Delta State, has reaffirmed his total support for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, pledging to work closely with party leaders and stakeholders to strengthen the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the state.

Majemite said his renewed commitment is anchored on a shared vision with the Governor to deepen good governance, promote inclusive development and consolidate the administration’s development blueprint, in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, the synergy between the Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda remains critical to delivering people centred policies and programmes capable of improving the quality of life of every Deltan.

He stressed that a united and well coordinated party structure at all levels would provide the needed platform to drive sustainable growth, social stability and economic opportunities across the state.

Majemite further urged party faithful and well meaning Deltans to close ranks and work collectively with Gov. Oborevwori, describing unity of purpose as the surest path to accelerated development and lasting progress in Delta State.

The former Commissioner called on all Deltans to queue behind the Governor in the overall interest of good governance, peace and prosperity, assuring that the present administration remains committed to delivering tangible dividends of democracy to all parts of the state.

The Urhobo Editors and Publishers Alliance (UEPA) has called on the Federal and Delta State Governments to urgently intervene in what it described as the prolonged and unjust military detention of civilians following the Okuama community crisis in Delta State.

In a statement issued on behalf of the association by its Chairman, Comrade Frederick Emuerure, and Secretary, Mr. Akpovoke Otiti, UEPA expressed deep concern that civilians from Okuama have allegedly remained under military confinement for nearly two years, a situation the body said amounts to the imposition of martial rule in a democratic society.

The alliance stressed that Nigeria operates under a constitutional democracy and not a military regime, insisting that no community or group of citizens should be subjected to indefinite detention without due process, access to bail or a transparent judicial process.

UEPA particularly called for the immediate release of Professor Arthur Ekpekpo and other elderly community leaders who, according to the group, are being held in military custody over what it described as spurious and unimaginable allegations, despite their age and fragile health conditions.

The association warned that the continued incarceration of respected community figures without trial not only violates fundamental human rights but also deepens distrust between host communities and security agencies, thereby threatening long-term peace and stability in the affected areas.

UEPA therefore appealed to all well meaning Deltans, civil society organisations and relevant stakeholders to join hands in demanding the immediate release of the detainees and a return to lawful, transparent and people centred conflict resolution in Okuama and across Delta State.

By: Philo Ezewu

A Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, has nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention held in Ibadan on November 15, 2025.

In its ruling, the court restrained members of the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) from parading themselves as national officers of the party.

The court further held that the Caretaker Committee led by Mohammed Abdulrahman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the only legally recognised National Working Committee of the PDP, pending the conduct of a valid and properly constituted National Convention.

The judgement marks the latest development in the lingering leadership crisis rocking the opposition party.
More details later.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

UGHELLI – The immediate past Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Chief Godwin Adode, popularly known as Coach Tete, has paid glowing tribute to Rt. Hon. Ovie Festus Agas, former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) and former Chief of Staff to the Delta State Government, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary.

Adode, in a congratulatory message made available to AjAZIRALReport Newspaper in Ughelli, described Agas as an amazing leader, a dependable boss and a mentor who has continued to positively influence the lives of those who worked closely with him.

He said the former SSG is an ever present and intentional leader who deliberately invested time and energy in grooming his followers, noting that Agas’ leadership style was marked by humility, openness and a rare ability to carry everyone along.

According to him, Agas is not only a thorough professional but also a jovial and humane leader, adding that working under his leadership was both inspiring and fulfilling for many young leaders within the political and administrative space of the state.

The former council chairman stated that he shares Hon. Agas’ vision for a greater Delta State, particularly the development and unity of the Ughelli Kingdom, which he said remains central to the former SSG’s public service philosophy.

“We have shared very memorable moments in the course of our service. He is thoughtful, excellence driven, diligent and above all, an outstanding leader whose commitment to people and progress is unquestionable,” Adode said.

Adode  offered  prayers for Rt. Hon. Agas, asking God to grant him good health, strength and many more fruitful years of impactful service to Delta State and the nation.

By Philo Ezewu

The Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, has admitted 688 fresh students into its academic community following its 30th matriculation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history and reaffirming its role in training Nigeria’s future healthcare professionals.

The Provost, Dr. (Mrs.) Odiete Eravweroso Congrat, described the ceremony as historic, noting that it was the first matriculation conducted under her leadership since her appointment in August last year by the Delta State Governor. She said the event symbolised both a great privilege and a sacred responsibility.

According to her, matriculation is not a mere ceremonial formality but a solemn academic rite that formally inducts students into the academic, moral, and professional community of the college.

“From today, you are no longer applicants or hopeful candidates; you are bona fide students of this institution,” she declared.
Dr. (Mrs.) Odiete Eravweroso expressed deep appreciation to the Delta State Government for its sustained commitment to education and health manpower development.

She also commended the Governing Council, management, staff, parents, and guardians for their unwavering support and contributions to the growth of the institution.

She charged the newly admitted students to uphold discipline, integrity, and compassion, reminding them that admission into the college is a privilege that must be sustained through diligence, obedience to institutional rules, and commitment to excellence.

“You are being trained not merely for jobs, but for professions that directly impact human lives. While your certificates may qualify you, your character and conduct will ultimately define you,” she emphasised.

Dr. Congrat reaffirmed the college’s dedication to quality teaching, high professional standards, and the provision of a conducive learning environment, stressing that the current administration is focused on repositioning the institution for sustainable growth and academic excellence.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Dr. Chris Oharisi, disclosed that the institution was in a celebratory mood as activities were ongoing to mark the annual Student Health Week, a week-long programme encompassing matriculation, convocation, and other major institutional events.
He, however, drew attention to several stalled infrastructural projects, including a 600-capacity auditorium whose equipment has already been approved but cannot be installed due to the incomplete state of the building. He appealed to the Delta State Government to prioritise the completion of the project.

Other challenges highlighted include an abandoned science laboratory project and a prolonged power outage that has affected the institution for over a decade. According to him, the college has been without electricity for nearly ten years despite repeated engagements with the Ministry of Power and Energy.

On academic development, Chief Oharisi noted that the institution’s upgrade from a monotechnic to a full-fledged college has significantly enhanced its academic standards. He added that all structural adjustments requested by the Ministry of Higher Education have been completed and would soon be forwarded for implementation.
He expressed optimism that the Delta State Government would grant approval to pending applications and continue to support the ongoing transformation of the college.

The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation oath to the newly admitted students, formally ushering them into the academic life of the institution.

BY MARTIN’S OKE

The Founder and Imitator of Edafe Onokpite Foundation, Comrade Edafe Onokpite aka The Street Governor, who is also a Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress APC has shower encomiums on His Excellency, RT. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State for what he described as his ” Unwavering and dogged Committment” toward the overall infrastructural development of Delta State.

The South South Youth Assembly Award winner of Excellent and Inspiration to younger generations of South South Youths in an interview with newsmen in Ugolo, Community, Okpe Local Government Area expressed satisfaction over the performance of Governor Oborevwori in past two years in office.Accordingly he scored over 80 percent in the area of performance.

The Young Man who popularly called ” Street Governor” Added that Governor Oborevwori has perform better than others and the people of Delta State are prepared to return him back by 2027.

Our Leader and Governor is doing marvellously and fantastically well! Giving the resources at stake.All the flyovers of Ughelli, Enerhen and PTI junctions ,Agbor, and numerous roads constructed and under construction across the 25 Local Government Areas . Today, Civil Servants are paid as at when due ! Delta State is presently a construction site! Local Government Workers and Primary School Teachers are also getting their salaries and pensions! What else do we want?. In all these achievements Governor Oborevwori has not borrow kobo!.or a dime!

While given Oborevwori kudos on the Infrastructural development of Delta State, he however appealed to Governor Oborevwori to also take a lot of Youths from the ” Street” because according to him the level of hunger is making a lot of people including himself to be spending much on people who are on the ” Street”

Governor knows what I’m saying he is familiar with what people are passing through! He is trying but hungry dey! A lot of people depend on us! We will continue to do our best to take people from the Street and hunger” He concluded.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Asaba – The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Amb. Dr. Isaac Omavuaye Akpoveta, has extended warm birthday greetings to his kinsman and elder statesman, Chief Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, as he marks his birthday anniversary.

Dr. Akpoveta described the celebration as a moment of gratitude and reflection, noting that the birthday anniversary of Chief Agas represents not just the passage of years, but the expansion of a life devoted to service, leadership, and the advancement of Delta State.

In his felicitation message, the DSCHC boss joined hosts of heaven and well wishers across the state to celebrate what he termed “a man filled with uncommon glory,” whose life and public service continue to inspire confidence, unity, and purposeful governance.

He particularly highlighted the sterling contributions of Chief Agas during his tenure as former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), stressing that his visionary initiatives were instrumental in strengthening institutions and accelerating development across key sectors of the state.

According to Dr. Akpoveta, Chief Agas’ leadership style, anchored on wisdom, inclusiveness, and administrative excellence, played a significant role in moving Delta State forward, leaving behind legacies that remain impactful and enduring.

While  offering prayers for good health, longevity, and renewed strength for Chief Festus Ovie Agas, expressing confidence that the celebrant will continue to serve as a beacon of guidance and progress for Delta State and future generations.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Chief Samuel Akpimegi, President General of the Ughelli Descendant Union (UDU), has described Chief Festus Agas as a worthy epitome of unblemished leadership, noting that his life of service has been marked by rare courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to good governance.

Akpimegi, in a congratulatory message to mark the birthday anniversary of his boss and leader,  Agas, who is a former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG)  and former Chief of Staff (COS), said the celebrant’s leadership style has continued to inspire confidence, unity, and pride among the people of Ughelli Kingdom and beyond.

He noted that Agas’ years in public service were defined by noble developmental initiatives and a unifying disposition, which, according to him, helped position the kingdom as a model of peace, progress, and responsible leadership within the comity of Urhobo kingdoms.

The UDU President General (PG)  further stated that the people of Ughelli have every reason to celebrate Agas, whom he described as a dependable leader and mentor whose integrity and vision have remained consistent both in and out of office.

Akpimegi added that members of the union were delighted to identify with and associate themselves with an exceptional leader like Agas on what he termed an epoch making and glorious birthday anniversary.

While concluding  by wishing the former top government official a happy birthday, praying for continued strength, wisdom, and good health, while reaffirming his support and pride in his enduring legacy of service and leadership.