AljaziralPress

The All Progressives Congress (APC) recorded a major political milestone at the Uromi Junction flag-off on Tuesday, as the party’s internal dynamics tilted decisively in favour of Sheriff, who moved swiftly to consolidate the party’s structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What began as a routine political outing soon assumed the character of a strategic show of strength, with party leaders, stakeholders and supporters converging in large numbers, signalling a new phase of cohesion within the ruling party’s fold.
From the body language of party chieftains to the tone of speeches delivered at the venue, the message was unmistakable: the era of internal rivalry had given way to a broad consensus around a single political direction for Delta State.

Observers noted that the alignment of ward executives, local government leaders and influential power brokers effectively shut the door against any looming internal contest, reinforcing the perception of a no contest pathway for the 2027 race in favour of APC

The massive grassroots turnout further underscored the growing acceptance of Sheriff’s leadership, as party loyalists openly pledged support and reaffirmed their readiness to mobilise across the political landscape..

By the close of the flag off, the APC had emerged visibly strengthened and unified, projecting confidence, organisational discipline and a clear sense of purpose as it set its sights firmly on an unchallenged march into the 2027 elections.

The most controversial Journalist, Comr. Otiti aka truthsayer, has called on the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Chief Barr. Jaro Omovudu Egbo, KSC, to urgently address what he described as a disturbing infiltration of cult elements into local security operations.

According to Otiti, a significant number of the so called vigilante members and even some police personnel currently involved in patrols are allegedly cultists themselves, raising serious questions about the effectiveness and sincerity of the ongoing security efforts.

He queried how the council expects genuine help in ending the cycle of cult clashes and killings in Ughelli North when those entrusted with maintaining peace are, in some cases, part of the same violent networks.

Otiti therefore urged the council chairman to immediately investigate these allegations, overhaul the composition of the patrol teams, and ensure that only credible, vetted and professional personnel are deployed to safeguard lives and restore public confidence in security operations in Ughelli

By: Akpovoke Otiti

The Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Chief Barr. Jaro Egbo, has issued a strong warning to individuals hiding behind cultism to perpetrate killings and violent crimes in the area.
In a no holds barred message, the council boss declared that the security agencies and the local government already possess detailed dossiers on the perpetrators and their leaders. He warned that those behind the senseless killings would be hunted down and made to face the full weight of the law, without exception.
Chief Egbo stressed that there would be no negotiation, no surrender, and no compromise with criminal elements terrorising Ughelli. He reaffirmed the council’s resolve to restore peace and security, insisting that the era of mindless violence in the local government must come to an end.

Renowned Niger Delta environmental and human rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has comnended Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the successful groundbreaking ceremony for the N59.7bn Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover in Agbor and implored politicians not to contest against the governor in the 2027 Governorship election, saying he has performed extremely well and need to consolidate on the development for the betterment of Deltans.

Speaking to newsmen at Asaba, the state capital after the groundbreaking ceremony for the N59.7bn Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover, Uromi junction, the Ijaw leader and development advocate said that he was impressed with the performance of the Governor, Oborevwori, saying that; “We just witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for yet another flyover in the state. Only recently he did that of Ughelli and today we just witnessed that of Agbor. This is going to strengthen economic activities in this area. He should be commended for coming to our rescue”.

“The Governor has shown that he came prepared for the job of piloting the affairs of our dear state and he has never disappointed us”, he said.

Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State also lauded the Governor for the presentation of 65 SUV cars to Royal Fathers in the state, describing it as a well come development.

“Gentlemen of the press, I want to also use this medium to thank our Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for the recent presentation of 65 brand new SUVs to traditional rulers across the state. He is doing very well and we are proud of him. He values our traditional rulers who are the custodians of our custom”, he said.

“With the unprecedented development we have witnessed in the state, we should encourage him to go for a second term to consolidated on the ongoing people’s oriented projects and it is my appeal to our politicians not to distract him by contest against the governor who has performed extremely well since he became a governor” We are expecting more projects flag-off across the state with a special focus on riverine areas this year. he added.

The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area has reinstated the suspended President General PG of Uwheru Kingdom, Hon. Chief Macpherson Igbedi, following a review of the issues that led to his suspension.

Speaking during the reinstatemen during stakeholders meeting in the chairman exco chamber, the Ughelli North LGA Chairman emphasized the need for unity, peace, and collective responsibility in the administration of Uwheru Kingdom. He admonished all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, elders, and community members, to set aside their differences and work together in harmony for the overall development and stability of the kingdom.

The LGA Chairman noted that effective leadership and cooperation among all parties remain critical to sustaining peace at the grassroots level, adding that the reinstatement was in the best interest of the Uwheru Kingdom and the wider Ughelli North Local Government Area.

In his response, the reinstated PG, Hon. Chief Macpherson Igbedi, expressed appreciation to the Executive Chairman of Ughelli North LGA for approving his reinstatement. He also thanked the Odion Rode of Uwheru, as well as the elders and leaders of the kingdom, for the opportunity to return to office.

Hon. Chief Igbedi pledged to work in harmony with all stakeholders, stressing his commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive leadership in the discharge of his responsibilities. He assured the people of the Uwheru Kingdom of his readiness to cooperate with traditional institutions and community leaders to promote development and cordial relations within the kingdom.

The reinstatement is expected to foster renewed cooperation and stability in the Uwheru Kingdom as community leaders and residents look forward to a more united and peaceful administration.

Otiti aka truthsayer

The controversy surrounding governance priorities in Delta State has deepened as critics question the allocation of public resources amid the lingering humanitarian crisis in Okuama community, which was razed down and whose residents are yet to recover from the hardship imposed on them.

While reports indicate that about 65 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were distributed to clergymen and traditional rulers across the state, observers lament that the displaced people of Okuama remain largely forgotten, struggling to survive in makeshift shelters without meaningful government intervention.

Residents and concerned stakeholders note with dismay that, unlike other communities where politicians were seen distributing bags of rice and Christmas gifts to their kinsmen and women during the festive season, no public office holder was visibly remembered the people of Okuama or extended similar gestures of support.

This perceived neglect has sparked soul searching among Urhobo sons and daughters, with many asking fundamental questions about compassion, shared identity and collective responsibility in the face of suffering within the ethnic nationality.

Although the state government has continued to project optimism, with assurances from His Excellency about increased revenue inflows and more funds coming into Delta State, the reality in Okuama tells a different story, one of perpetual suffering, homelessness and abandonment.

Investigations reveal that the devastated community still lacks basic social amenities, including a dispensary or functional healthcare centre, leaving vulnerable residents, women and children exposed to preventable illnesses and untold hardship.

Critics argue that while billions of naira are being committed to flyover projects, reportedly N39.3 billion and N59 billion, the urgent needs of displaced and traumatised citizens are being sidelined, calling for a collective rethink and a united effort by government, leaders and well meaning Deltans to rebuild and restore Okuama community.

The Urhobo Editors and Publishers Alliance (UEPA) has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Monday Obukohwo, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, on the occasion of his 60th birthday and the fifth anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

In a congratulatory message signed by its leadership, Comr. Frederick Umueru, Chairman and Come. Akpovoke Otiti, Secretary, UEPA described the double celebration as a moment of pride for the Idjerhe people and the entire Urhobo nation, noting that the monarch’s reign has been marked by peace, stability and purposeful leadership.

The alliance commended HRM Obukohwo for what it described as his exemplary traditional stewardship, which has strengthened unity in Idjerhe Kingdom and fostered cordial relationships with neighbouring communities.

UEPA further praised the monarch’s commitment to cultural preservation and development, saying his reign has helped to promote Urhobo values while embracing modern ideas that enhance socio economic growth.

According to the group, the Ovie’s humility, accessibility and support for education, media freedom and community development have endeared him to his people and earned him respect beyond the borders of Idjerhe Kingdom.

UEPA prayed for good health, wisdom and a long, peaceful reign for HRM Monday Obukohwo, urging him to continue his service to humanity and the Urhobo nation with renewed strength and dedication.

Our reporter

Chief Barr. Fred Okiemute Majemite aka ” the Agbragha Mi Gbrogho of the Universe” has congratulated the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, on the occasion of his 60th birthday and the fifth anniversary of his coronation, describing the monarch’s reign as peaceful, progressive and people oriented.

In a congratulatory message made available to journalists on Friday, Majemite extolled the royal father’s exemplary leadership qualities, noting that his ascension to the throne has brought renewed unity, stability and development to Idjerhe Kingdom.

He commended the Ovie for promoting peace and cultural heritage while fostering harmonious relations between traditional institutions and modern governance, adding that the monarch’s wisdom and humility have earned him respect beyond the boundaries of the kingdom.

Majemite further acknowledged the Ovie’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development, stressing that his reign has continued to inspire hope and collective responsibility among the people of Idjerhe.

He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the royal father, wishing him good health, long life and many more years of impactful leadership, while urging the people of Idjerhe Kingdom to sustain their support for the throne in the interest of enduring peace and progress.

The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun Barr. Jaro Omovudu Egbo, on Wednesday, 15 January 2026, led residents, security agencies, and veterans in commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Public Field, Ughelli.

Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Chairman Egbo paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in defence of the nation’s unity, peace, and territorial integrity. He described the occasion as a moment of reflection and gratitude, not only to honour the dead but also to appreciate serving and retired personnel who continue to bear the scars of national service.

The Chairman reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of veterans and the families of fallen heroes, stressing the importance of effective collaboration between the local government and the Nigerian Legion to ensure that government programmes reach beneficiaries at the grassroots. He assured widows, orphans, and ex-servicemen that their welfare remains a collective responsibility the council is determined to uphold.

In alignment with national and state priorities, Egbo called on citizens to support the development and security agenda of the Federal and Delta State Governments, led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State. According to him, these initiatives are designed to deepen development, enhance security, and improve the quality of life across all levels of governance.

Earlier, in a goodwill address on behalf of the Nigerian Legion, S/SGT. Alexander Obire (JP) outlined the objectives of Remembrance Day, which include honouring those who died in the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and peacekeeping missions, as well as supporting widows, orphans, and aged veterans. He commended the Ughelli North Chairman for his accessibility and sustained support to the Legion, noting that recent celebrations under his leadership have set new standards.

The Legion representative also highlighted notable achievements of the Ughelli North administration, including the resolution of long-standing communal conflicts, improvements in market administration, enhanced security coordination, ongoing infrastructure projects, and progress at health facilities within the local government.

The event featured the traditional laying of wreaths, prayers for fallen heroes, and solidarity with veterans and their families. Participants described the ceremony as dignified and reflective, reinforcing the community’s resolve to uphold the ideals of peace, unity, justice, and service for which the nation’s heroes fought and died.

The programme concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes and blessings for Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Ughelli North Legislative Arm has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of hoodlums who allegedly stormed the legislative chambers during plenary on Wednesday and made away with the mace, the symbol of authority of the House.

The call was made by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Ese Agboborie, during an interview shortly after the disruption of the plenary session. He condemned the incident, describing it as an assault on democracy and the integrity of the legislative institution.

Agboborie stated that councillors of the 8th Ughelli North Legislative Arm have implicit confidence in the leadership of the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Prosper Ajero, noting that the affairs of the House had been piloted peacefully and responsibly under his leadership.

According to the Majority Leader, plenary was progressing smoothly until Hon. Onome Ishere was allegedly denied the opportunity to speak, a development that triggered chaos in the chamber, during which hoodlums reportedly seized the mace.

He urged members of the public to disregard rumours of an impeachment of the Leader of the House, stressing that no impeachment took place and that no notice of impeachment was ever served on the Leader.
Corroborating the account, the Clerk of the House, Mr. Emmanuel Tagbajumi, in a statement, said the mace was taken away by unknown persons after the session became rowdy when the councillor representing Ughelli Ward 12 was not recognised to speak. He added that the disrupted sitting was attended by 17 councillors.