AljaziralPress

An Ijaw leader and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has accused the Delta State Government of systematic marginalisation and deliberate neglect of Ijaw communities, particularly in the area of educational development and institutional presence.

Mulade, who described the situation as “unjust, provocative and unacceptable in a democratic society,” said the continued exclusion of Ijaw areas from the siting of state-owned educational institutions represents a clear case of structural discrimination, despite the region’s enormous contribution to the economic survival of Delta State.

According to him, “It is painful and unacceptable that a people whose land produces greater portion of wealth sustaining this state are treated as second-class citizens when it comes to development especially in the area of higher educational institutions. This is not only unfair; it is dangerous for the unity and future of Delta State.”

The Ijaw-born activist listed the existing state-owned tertiary institutions in Delta State and pointed out that almost all are concentrated outside Ijaw territories, reinforcing a long-standing pattern of exclusion as regards State-Owned Universities such as:

Delta State University, Abraka;
Southern Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro; Southern Delta University of Science and Technology, Orerokpe Campus;
Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba;
University of Delta, Agbor;
State-Owned Colleges of Education and Health Institutions:
Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba;
College of Education, Edjeba Road, Warri;
Delta State College of Physical Education, Mosogar;
School of Midwifery, Asaba;
State School of Nursing, Edjeba, Warri;
College of Nursing Science, Sapele;
Delta State-Owned Polytechnic Institutions:
Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku;
Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara;
Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu; (poor infrastructure and lacks capacity).

Mulade stressed that out of all these institutions, only one, the Delta State School of Marine Technology, Burutu is located in Ijaw land, a reality he described as “appalling, insulting and indefensible.”

“One institution for an entire ethnic nationality that contributes massively to Delta State’s oil wealth is not just marginalisation; it is a deliberate policy of neglect,” he declared.

The rights activists further lamented that while Ijaw communities bear the environmental burden of oil exploration including polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands and health risks, they are consistently denied the benefits of development, especially in education.

“Our youths are denied opportunities not because they lack potential, but because the government has refused to bring development to our doorsteps. This imbalance is breeding frustration, and must be corrected urgently,” Mulade warned.

The Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, Chief Mulade Sheriff strongly appealed and called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to rise above politics, sentiment and take deliberate steps to correct the imbalance by prioritising the siting of new educational institutions in Ijaw areas, upgrading existing infrastructure and appoint qualified Ijaw sons and daughters as Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers in Delta educational architecture as compensation now.

“Governor Oborevwori must show that he is a governor for all Deltans, not for a select few. The Ijaw people deserve fairness, inclusion and respect. Educational development is not a favour; it is our right,” he stated.
He warned that continued neglect of Ijaw areas could deepen feelings of alienation and undermine the sense of belonging among the people.

Demand for Equity and Justice

Mulade concluded by calling on civil society groups, traditional rulers, youth organisations and stakeholders across Delta State to speak out against structural injustice and demand a more equitable distribution of development.

“This is not just an Ijaw issue; it is a justice issue. A state cannot develop sustainably when a significant part of its population is consistently excluded,” he said.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Concerned Women in Politics have called on Chief Mrs. Barr. Grace Aghoghovbia to step forward and contest for the Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, ahead of the next general elections.

Speaking through the Ughelli South chapter of Women in Politics, Chief Dr.Mrs Comfort Uwhubetene ,  the group Chairlady,  expressed deep dissatisfaction with the performance of the current representative, a pastor by profession, whom they accused of failing to deliver any remarkable achievements or tangible dividends of democracy to the people of the constituency since assuming office.

The Chairlady  stated that the time has come for a new kind of leadership that reflects competence, compassion and commitment to grassroots development, stressing that the constituency deserves better representation at the National Assembly.

They described Chief Mrs. Grace Aghoghovbia as a woman of substance, endowed with entrepreneurial capacity, a tested philanthropist and a personality whose name, they said, has become synonymous with kindness, integrity and grace.

According to the group Chairlady,  “Chief Mrs Aghoghovbia  track record in community service, women empowerment and humanitarian interventions makes her eminently qualified to represent Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency and to articulate the aspirations of the people, particularly women and youths, at the national level.

In a strong show of solidarity and commitment, the women declared that should Chief Mrs. Aghoghovbia accept the call to serve, they are ready to mobilise support and personally purchase the nomination and expression of interest forms for her, insisting that the era of symbolic representation must give way to purposeful and impactful leadership.

By Akpovoke Otiti

Former Delta State Commissioner, Chief (Barr.) Fred Okiemute Majemite, and the Managing Director of NEXIM Bank, Madam Stella Okotete, have reaffirmed their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.

The duo made their position known at the All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting held recently at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Asaba, where party leaders and stakeholders converged to deliberate on unity and the party’s direction in the state.

Speaking at the event, Chief Majemite commended the Delta APC leadership for its unifying efforts, describing the stakeholders’ reunion as timely and strategic. He also applauded Governor Oborevwori for fostering inclusiveness and development-driven governance across the state.
Majemite called on Deltans to rally round Governor Oborevwori for a second term, stating that the governor has performed overwhelmingly well, with prudent utilization of state resources reflected in visible projects and improved governance outcomes.

In her remarks, Madam Stella Okotete echoed similar sentiments, pledging continued support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and the MORE Agenda of the Delta State Government, stressing the need for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

Chief Majemite further urged residents of Ughelli North, particularly eligible citizens aged 18 years and above, to participate actively in the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration exercise, noting that massive voter participation would be critical to the success of the Renewed Hope and MORE agendas in the 2027 general elections.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Asaba – The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Barr.  Festus Keyamo, SAN, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, Hon. Engr. Henry Menabowanre Baro alongside several prominent leaders from Uvwie Kingdom, has pledged total allegiance and unity in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the APC stakeholders’ unity meeting held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Asaba, Keyamo assured his people that deliberate efforts were underway to unify the entire Uvwie political leadership to ensure massive support for both the President and the Delta State Governor in the coming polls.

According to him, the presence of virtually all leaders and critical stakeholders from Uvwie at the meeting was a clear signal of renewed commitment to party cohesion and collective progress, stressing that unity remained the strongest weapon for electoral victory in 2027.

Also speaking, a former Deputy Chief Whip of the Delta State House of Assembly and Executive Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, pledged to work assiduously with other leaders to deliver what he described as “100 per cent support” for the Renewed Hope and MORE Agenda in Uvwie.

Among other notable leaders who declared their support were former Uvwie Council Chairman, Hon. Engr. Henry Menabowanre Baro, described as one of the most dogged political figures in the area, as well as several other top Uvwie stakeholders who aligned with the unity drive.

The leaders commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for convening what they described as a timely and unifying stakeholders’ meeting, noting that the gathering had strengthened internal harmony within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.

By Pat Gbemudu

The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has enrolled additional residents into the Contributory Health Scheme through the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative (IEAI), as part of efforts to expand access to quality and affordable healthcare for vulnerable residents across the state.

The enrolment exercises were held at Christ Mercy Land Deliverance Ministry, Effurun, in Uvwie Local Government Area, where 250 indigent beneficiaries mainly staff of the ministry, were enrolled, and at Umiaghwa Village in Okpe Local Government Area, where 100 pupils of Umiaghwa Primary School were registered under the Scheme.

Speaking at the events, the Director-General of the DSCHC, Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, represented by the Director of ICT, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr Emmanuel Akpofure, expressed satisfaction with the growing enrolment figures, particularly through the IEAI. He noted that the initiative continues to reflect the spirit of philanthropy and social responsibility among individuals and organizations, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, who are committed to improving access to healthcare in the state.
Dr. Akpoveta disclosed that the registration of the 250 beneficiaries at Christ Mercy Land Deliverance Ministry was sponsored by Ebegha Winston Taralayefa, while the enrolment of the 100 pupils in Umiaghwa was sponsored by the Edward Ederaine Foundation. He explained that the initiative aligns with the Delta State Government’s drive toward achieving Universal Health Coverage.
“Our Commission remains committed to expanding enrolment in line with the M.O.R.E Agenda of His Excellency, particularly in the area of health insurance and sustainable health financing. Our goal is to ensure that no resident is forced into financial hardship or asset liquidation in order to access quality healthcare,” he said, while commending the sponsors for their generosity and commitment to public welfare.
In his remarks, Chief Hon. Deacon Taralayefa stated that the sponsorship was informed by a desire to give back to society. He described the General Overseer of Christ Mercy Land Deliverance Ministry, Jeremiah Fufeyin, as a renowned philanthropist with a long-standing commitment to humanitarian causes. He added that partnering with the Delta State Government was a privilege, given the visible infrastructural and socio-economic progress recorded in the state.
He further noted that the initiative provides members and staff of the ministry with an opportunity to benefit from the contributory health scheme despite prevailing economic challenges. According to him, the collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Health and its agencies is considered a great honour.
Deacon Taralayefa also commended the State Governor for sustaining the scheme and acknowledged the former administration that initiated it, noting that its continuity reflects the government’s genuine concern for the wellbeing of the people.
Also speaking, a representative of the Edward Ederaine Foundation, Charity Tuvwe, said the foundation had recorded several instances where residents were unable to access healthcare during emergencies. She explained that although a health centre exists in the community, it is currently non-functional, forcing residents to travel long distances to seek medical attention.
Mrs. Tuvwe expressed optimism that the sponsorship of 100 indigent persons under the health insurance scheme would significantly improve access to healthcare and enhance the overall wellbeing of residents of Umiaghwa community.

· URGES HIM TO CONFINE HIS ACTIVITIES TO 510 ACRES GRANTED IN THE W.A.C.A JUDGEMENT

· REFUTES OKPE’S CLAIM OVER SAPELE

INSISTS SAPELE NOT EXCLUSIVE TOWN OF OKPE PEOPLE

The Alema of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Saturday urged the Orodje of Okpe to restrict his authority and confine his activities to the said 510 acres granted in the judgement of Chief Ayomanor V. Ginuwa 11 JELR81222 (W.A.C.A).

“I sincerely hope that the said proposed foundation laying ceremony of the sub-palace by the Orodje of Okpe is within the said 510 acres granted to the Okpes in the judgement of Chief Ayomanor V. Ginuwa 11 JELR81222 (W.A.C.A), as anything outside this will be far reaching and would be an invitation to communal crisis by the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and this will be resisted by every legal means possible”

In response to the foundation laying ceremony of the sub-palace in Sapele Town by the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Uduaghan said that the issue of the ownership of Sapele by the Itsekiri Nation has been corroborated by the Intelligence Report of the Colonial Authority as far back as 1930 on the Okpe Sobo Clan wherein they listed all Okpe villages, sub-clans and communities.

“The Intelligence Report by L.E.A. Fellows listed the notable Okpe villages to be Amukpe, Elume, Orerokpe and Gbukurusu”

Uduaghan who is the administrator of Ugbekoko, Utonyatsere, Ajimele, Aji Dore, Irakpa and other notable Itsekiri communities within Sapele under the over lordship of the Olu of Warri, Atuwatse 111 said the judgement in Chief Ayomanor V. Ginuwa 11 JELR81222 (W.A.C.A) that the Okpe often rely on to claim the ownership of Sapele does not confer ownership of Sapele on the Okpes.

‘”The judgement in Chief Ayomanor V. Ginuwa 11 JELR81222 (W.A.C.A) did not grant the ownership of Sapele to the Okpes; rather it granted 510 acres of land to the Okpes. The area of land granted is well known”

“Sapele is not the exclusive town of the Okpe people. Sapele from the time immemorial belongs to the Itsekiri people” he added.

‘’

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, former Commissioner for Higher Education in Delta State, has called on the Federal Government and affected communities to adopt what he described as a “balance of terror” approach in responding to persistent attacks by suspected herdsmen across parts of the country, particularly in Benue, Delta, Sokoto, Zamfara, and other vulnerable areas.

Speaking to AjaziralReport Newspaper shortly after a heated public commentary, the former commissioner expressed concern over what he termed the continued failure of authorities to decisively curb killings, abductions, and sexual violence allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen. He noted that repeated attacks on farming communities have left many families displaced and traumatised.

Muoboghare argued that communities under attack should be sensitised to defend themselves. According to him, whenever attackers come to churches to abduct people, affected communities should mobilise and attacked any closer Mosque, for a balance of terror, insisting that fear and restraint will emboldened perpetrators.

He claimed that some Nigerian communities remain largely untouched because they have made such attacks “too costly” for aggressors, describing the approach as “an eye for an eye.” you rape my wife, I mobilised a gang raped on your wife too .

While calling for economic resistance against open grazing, urging residents, particularly in Benue and Urhobo land, to stop buying or consuming beef. He claimed that herders bring cattle into our communities because they knew we cannot do without cow meats, adding that cutting off this economic incentive would discourage incursions.

Prof. cited past security operations to justify his position, referencing a former Assistant Inspector General of Police who allegedly warned that attacks on police officers would be met with overwhelming force, a strategy Muoboghare said deterred further violence at the time.

He also criticised what he described as muted responses from security agencies to the killings of police officers and civilians in places such as Uwheru in Delta State, arguing that the absence of swift and decisive action has allowed armed groups to remain active in forests and farmlands.

Muoboghare concluded by urging affected communities to stop what he described as “endless lamentations” and instead signal readiness to protect their lives, farms, and families, stressing that lasting peace would only return when attacks on rural communities are effectively deterred.

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, on Friday, converged on the Banquet Hall of Government House, Asaba, for a high level meeting aimed at strengthening party unity, boosting e-registration and mobilising the grassroots ahead of forthcoming congresses.

Addressing party leaders and members, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori said leadership derives its legitimacy from the people, stressing that it must be anchored on humility, empathy and service. He urged stakeholders to place collective interest above personal ambitions and warned that division and internal conflicts could undermine the party’s progress.

The governor noted that unity remains the greatest strength of the APC, adding that meetings of such nature provide the opportunity to assess progress, strengthen party structures and prepare for critical political milestones. According to him, effective mobilisation, registration and participation would ultimately determine the party’s electoral fortunes.

Oborevwori further charged stakeholders to work towards delivering massive votes for President Bola Tinubu and other APC candidates in the 2027 general elections, saying the volume of votes delivered would define the party’s strength and influence at the federal level.

In his remarks, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, urged members to remain focused as the party approaches its congresses. He commended the progress recorded in the e-registration exercise and the growing diversity within the party, while cautioning against rumours, delays and avoidable tensions.

Immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, thanked Governor Oborevwori for convening the meeting, describing his visit to Government House after many years as a gesture of inclusiveness. He pledged to work in unity with the governor and other stakeholders to further strengthen the APC in the state.

Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, also commended stakeholders for sustaining unity and engagement, urging intensified grassroots mobilisation to deepen e-registration by taking the exercise to homes and communities. He emphasised inclusiveness and consensus in the conduct of congresses, praising Oborevwori’s role in fostering harmony.

Earlier, National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Felix Morka, lauded the governor’s leadership and the digitalisation of the party’s membership register, recommending a consensus approach for the congresses. In their separate remarks, state and senatorial chairmen reported progress and challenges in e-registration, while a minute of silence was observed in honour of late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, who represented Delta North Senatorial District.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

Sen. Barr. Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy President of the Senate, has declared his readiness to work with the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, as part of efforts to reposition the state ahead of the 2027 political season.

Speaking on his philosophy of public governance, Omo Agege said his guiding principle remains service to the people, stressing that leadership must be anchored on commitment, humility and collective responsibility for development.

“I will work with everyone, by God’s grace, to lift up Delta State,” he said, noting that unity among leaders and stakeholders was critical to achieving meaningful progress across the state..

The former Deputy Senate President also reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing his backing for the President as firm and enduring in the interest of national growth and stability.
Turning to state politics, Omo Agege assured Governor Oborevwori of his willingness to collaborate in strengthening governance and deepening the ruling party’s influence across Delta State..

“With my commitment to a legacy of qualitative governance, I am ready to work with His Excellency to strengthen our party and deliver on its promises to our people,” he said.
He added that the ultimate goal of the partnership was to make Delta State a better place for all, insisting that sustained cooperation and people-centred policies would remain the cornerstone of his political engagement.

By: Akpovoke Otiti

A top most respected Political leader Chief Okiemute Oviri has called on all residents of Ughelli South Local Government Area ana beyond  to come out en masse and register for their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) as the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise continues across all LGAs.

The foremost political leader in Ughelli South stressed the importance of civic participation, describing voter registration as a vital step toward strengthening democracy and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.

He further appealed to community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to join hands in mobilising residents for a more inclusive and committed registration process, noting that widespread participation would enhance credible elections and good governance in the area.

Chief Oviri reaffirmed his commitment to democratic development and urged eligible voters not to miss the opportunity to secure their PVCs ahead of future elections.