Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor Ochei, Esq., FNSE, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial candidate for Delta North, yesterday told members of Opposition Gate in Agbor that his aspiration is anchored on three fundamental pillars, namely, Character, Competence and Capacity.
Addressing the Agbor-based sociopolitical group, comprising lecturers, academics, professionals and businesspeople, Ochei, who was accompanied by the NDC candidate for Ika South State Constituency, Mrs Ogor Tony-Obuh, the Delta North Senatorial Chairman, Hon. Aaron Udoka Ebenuwa, and Director-General of his Campaign Council Hon Gift Okwuolise Ph.D, framed the 2027 senatorial contest as one that should be determined by personal merit, performance and the value candidates can deliver.
“Character, Competence and Capacity are the true measures,” Ochei declared. “Every contestant is seeking to be hired by the people, and the people must hire on results, not on chants inspired by patronage.”
The former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly cited his legislative experience and engineering background as key strengths, arguing that his record of institutional leadership distinguishes his candidacy.
He also recalled his 2003 election, when, according to him, he contested on the platform of a relatively unknown party and defeated the then Majority Leader of the House. “I have never been an establishment candidate,” he said, describing independent-minded leadership as essential for Delta North’s representation in the Senate.
On governance and infrastructure, Ochei urged the audience to assess political leadership by tangible outcomes rather than slogans. Drawing on his engineering background, he said roads and other public infrastructure should be judged by their quality and durability. “As an engineer, the minimum a newly constructed road should last is 10 years,” he stated. He criticised what he described as the poor state of roads in Agbor and questioned the development outcomes associated with years of political influence in the area. Ochei maintained that decades of political patronage should be evaluated by the development attracted, institutions strengthened and lasting systems established.
Ochei also presented the NDC as a platform for advancing what the party describes as a New Nigeria, pointing to the appeal of its presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and his emphasis on prudence and responsible management of public resources.
“Peter Obi inspires real affection from the people, and his promise of prudence, cautious expenditure of government resources and homegrown solutions, is exactly what Nigeria needs today,” he said.
He further highlighted the Reset Proposal of the NDC’s Delta State governorship candidate, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, expressing confidence in Iyovwaye’s exposure and capacity to pursue industrial development, job creation and broader economic opportunities across the state.
He hailed Iyovwaye’s impact in the engineering logistics sector and his successful partnerships with Dangote Industries and other multinational organisations, insisting that such exposures have placed him as a superior material today.
Concluding his address, Ochei urged the gathering to believe in the possibility of a New Nigeria and support efforts to translate that vision into reality.
“We must believe in the possibility of a New Nigeria and be ready to do all it takes to make it real,” he said. “Character, Competence and Capacity, that is the superiority of this senatorial aspiration.”
Abuja – The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has recognised the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Muhammad Idris, with a prestigious Distinguished Leadership Award for Excellence in Information Management and National Orientation, citing his outstanding contributions to journalism, strategic communications and national development.
The award, according to GOMEP-NG, is a tribute to the Minister’s decades of remarkable service in the media and communication industry, his leadership as a media entrepreneur, and his ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s information management architecture in public office.
The Nat’l President of GOMEP-NG, Comr. Akpovoke Otiti, said the recognition was borne out of a careful assessment of Idris’ professional achievements, leadership qualities and commitment to promoting responsible communication, democratic values and effective national orientation.
Otiti described the Minister as a distinguished communication strategist whose career reflects a rare blend of media professionalism, public relations expertise and public service commitment.
“Alhaji Muhammad Idris has distinguished himself through his dedication to credible information dissemination, ethical journalism, strategic communication and the promotion of national consciousness,” Otiti said.
He added that the honour represents the Guild’s appreciation of the Minister’s contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s media ecosystem and his role in advancing a more coordinated approach to government communication and public engagement.
Before his appointment as Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris built a strong reputation as a respected media entrepreneur and communications professional, earning recognition for his contribution to journalism, publishing and public relations.
GOMEP-NG noted that his transition from the newsroom to national service has further demonstrated the importance of experienced media professionals in shaping public communication, strengthening democratic governance and bridging the gap between government and citizens.
The Guild stated that the Distinguished Leadership Award for Excellence in Information Management and National Orientation reflects Idris’ achievements as a media leader, communications expert and public servant whose work continues to inspire professionalism and excellence across Nigeria’s information sector.
The recognition, according to GOMEP-NG, is also part of its broader commitment to honouring individuals who have contributed significantly to the advancement of journalism, responsible media practice and national development.
LAGOS – The Silent Heroes Awards Initiative (SHA) has applauded the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for what it described as his transformational leadership, commitment to professionalism and sustained efforts to strengthen public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Founder of the initiative, Comr. Odita Sunday, said the IGP’s leadership style reflects the qualities required to build a modern, accountable and people-centred police institution capable of effectively responding to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
According to him, the current leadership of the Nigeria Police has demonstrated that effective policing goes beyond crime fighting to include institutional reforms, respect for the rule of law, public accountability and stronger engagement with communities.
He noted that the office of the Inspector-General of Police carries enormous responsibility and requires a clear vision, discipline and the capacity to inspire officers to discharge their constitutional duties with professionalism and integrity.
“Leadership in the security sector goes beyond occupying an office or issuing directives. It is about setting standards, inspiring personnel, strengthening institutions and building public trust through professional conduct and measurable results,” Odita said.
He stressed that effective policing depends largely on the confidence reposed in law enforcement by the public, adding that sustained collaboration between security agencies and communities remains vital to preventing crime and enhancing national security.
The SHA founder further observed that modern policing demands intelligence-led operations, operational efficiency, respect for human rights and strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders. Odita also underscored the importance of improving the welfare of police personnel through continuous professional training, enhanced operational capacity and institutional support, noting that motivated officers are better positioned to deliver quality service to the nation.
He said officers serving under difficult and often hazardous conditions deserve recognition, encouragement and leadership that promotes integrity, excellence and dedication to duty. “The men and women who serve in the security sector make enormous sacrifices, often away from the public spotlight. Recognising their service and encouraging exemplary leadership are important steps towards building stronger and more responsive institutions,” he added.
Speaking on the objectives of the organisation, Odita explained that the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative is dedicated to identifying and celebrating individuals whose leadership, service and contributions have significantly impacted security, governance, community development and national growth.
According to him, recognising excellence remains an effective tool for promoting responsible leadership, encouraging professionalism and inspiring greater commitment to public service.
He maintained that honour and recognition should be based on character, integrity, institutional impact and commitment to humanity rather than titles or positions.
The SHA founder called on Nigerians to continue supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s security architecture, describing security as a collective responsibility that requires cooperation among government institutions, communities, civil society organisations and the private sector.
Expressing optimism about the future of policing in Nigeria, Odita said sustained reforms, visionary leadership and stronger partnerships between the police and citizens would further improve public safety and deepen confidence in law enforcement.
He reaffirmed SHA’s commitment to promoting integrity, excellence and selfless service while encouraging public office holders to remain focused on delivering quality service to Nigerians. According to him, the true measure of leadership in the security sector lies in its ability to positively impact lives, strengthen institutions and earn the trust of the people.
For years, the Umuahia/Ikwuano/Ikot Ekpene Federal Road was a symbol of neglect and suffering. During the rainy season, the road became an eyesore, with passengers, buses and private vehicles frequently trapped in deep mud and potholes. Motorists often had to escape through adjoining bush paths. The cries of affected communities, individuals and groups seemed to fall on deaf ears.
Hope temporarily came in 2019 when the Buhari-led Federal Government, under the then Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, awarded the contract for the road reconstruction to Hartland Civil Engineering Construction Company. Unfortunately, what should have brought relief became a prolonged nightmare. For years, the project made little tangible progress, leaving communities frustrated and commuters exposed to hardship.
I repeatedly raised my concerns, drawing the attention of both the Buhari administration and, subsequently, President Bola Tinubu to the incompetence of the contractor and deplorable condition of the road. Despite reports of approvals and funding, the visible results remained disappointing. I continued to speak out, resisting every attempt to discourage or silence my advocacy.
Little did I know that Governor Alex Otti of Abia State was on the sideline listening and observing the absurdity. On 24 October 2025, he flagged off the reconstruction of the Umuahia/Ikwuano/Ikot Ekpene Road, rekindling hope to the people of Ikwuano and neighbouring communities. The project, covering approximately 25 kilometres, was given an 18-month completion target.
What makes this intervention particularly remarkable is the decision of the Abia State Government to take responsibility for a federal road and finance its reconstruction rather than wait indefinitely for the Federal Government’s contractor that was asleep on the road. The state took over the lethargic project previously handled by the contractor and engaged a new contractor, GELD Construction Ltd. to accelerate the work.
Even more striking is Governor Otti’s reported position that he was prepared to proceed with the project without making a refund from the Federal Government a precondition for action. In other words, the state would undertake the reconstruction whether or not it eventually recovered the expenditure from the Federal Government, despite the road being a federal responsibility. This is an extraordinary demonstration of commitment to public welfare. Ordinarily, one would expect a state government undertaking such a substantial financial responsibility on a federal road to seek assurances about reimbursement before committing its resources. Uncertainty over refunds could easily discourage such an undertaking. Yet, in this instance, the priority appears to be the relief of the people rather than the financial convenience of government. That is the difference between waiting for responsibility to be assigned and taking responsibility because the people can no longer wait.
During my visit home this weekend, I was astonished by the pace and apparent quality of the work,(pictures are hereby exhibited). Despite persistent and heavy rainfall, the contractor has continued working with impressive dedication, including at night and on Sundays. The transformation taking place on the ground is encouraging.
I was particularly impressed by the work on the Ariam/Usaka Ring Road, also being handled by GELD Construction Ltd. The level of activity and commitment I witnessed demonstrated what purposeful planning, effective supervision and dedication to delivery can achieve. The progress offers hope to residents who have endured years of poor road infrastructure.
The people deserve durable roads, not temporary relief. The untarred areas left by Hartland especially the axis between Isiala Headquarter and Ugbuebulle village should be taken into consideration by GELD Construction Company and tidied up as the work progresses.
Dr Alex’s governance experience has reinforced my conviction that governance must be measured not merely by promises, but by visible results that improve the daily lives of citizens. Roads are not simply stretches of asphalt; they connect communities, facilitate commerce, improve access to education and healthcare, and restore dignity to people who have endured years of neglect.
Governor Otti’s intervention has demonstrated the importance of responsive leadership, purposeful engagement and a determination to address the practical needs of the people. His willingness to commit state resources to a road that falls within federal responsibility, without making reimbursement the condition for proceeding, is particularly significant to me. What a leader! God has blessed Abia with a leader whose actions, in this instance, demonstrate a profound concern for the welfare of the people and a willingness to shoulder responsibility where others have failed to deliver. To me, this is the kind of leadership that restores public confidence in government.
The people of Ikwuano and Abia State have every reason to take notice of this development as they assess the governor’s record ahead of the 2027 governorship election. For me, the progress I witnessed represents an important example of the kind of governance that citizens should demand at every level of government.
I therefore join the voices of Ndi Ikwuano and Ndi Abia who are expressing appreciation for this intervention and calling for continuity in the state’s development efforts. My support for Governor Otti’s re-election is rooted in my assessment of his performance and the hope that the momentum of development will be sustained as he continues in 2027.
Our people deserve leadership that is humane, responsible, thoughtful, accountable and humble. These are qualities that should guide public service, whether at the local, state or federal level.
Eastern Region has a rich history of notable leadership. Many of us recall with admiration the legacies associated with late Dr Michael Okpara, former Premier of the Eastern Region, and late Dr Sam Mbakwe, former Governor of old Imo State. Their contributions remain important reference points in discussions about purposeful leadership and development. The current development efforts in Abia State invite us to reflect on that tradition and on the responsibility of every administration to leave a lasting, positive legacy.
I am encouraged by what I witnessed on the Umuahia/Ikwuano/Ikot Ekpene corridor. I believe that the work will be completed to the highest engineering standards, within the stipulated timeframe, and maintained for the long-term benefit of our people. This December shall be enjoyable!
May responsible and people-centred governance continue to flourish in Abia State and across Nigeria. May our leaders always remember that public office is a trust, and that the true measure of leadership is the difference it makes in the lives of ordinary citizens.
May God bless, Dr Alex Otti, Ikwuano, bless Abia State, and bless Nigeria. Amen.
Dr M.O. Ubani SAN Deputy Board Chairman of Ottimania, Nigeria.
Port Harcourt -The National President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, has been honoured with the Prestigious Award of Excellence as the Most Courageous and Bold Media Editor in Southern Nigeria.
The award was presented by the Unifiers Movement for Good Governance during a well attended ceremony held at the Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt, in recognition of Otiti’s unwavering commitment to ethical journalism, press freedom and responsible public advocacy.
The event was presided over by the Chairman of the organisation, Dr. Rufus Omoregbe, JP, who commended the GOMEP-NG President for his fearless editorial leadership and sustained efforts in promoting truth, accountability and good governance through digital journalism.
According to the organisers, the honour reflects Otiti’s consistent defence of the public interest, his commitment to professional media practice and his contributions to strengthening democratic values across the South and Nigeria at large.
Receiving the award, Otiti expressed gratitude to the Unifiers Movement for Good Governance for the recognition, describing it as a call to remain steadfast in upholding the ethics of journalism. He dedicated the award to members of GOMEP-NG and to media professionals who continue to promote credible and balanced reporting despite the challenges confronting the profession.
The ceremony attracted community leaders, civil society advocates, media practitioners and other distinguished guests who applauded the organisation’s commitment to recognising individuals making meaningful contributions to nation-building and good governance.
ABUJA – The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has announced that renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Mr. Abdulrazaq Tayibu, will be honoured with the Distinguished Business Leadership and Humanitarian Excellence Award at the Guild’s forthcoming Annual Conference, Lecture and Workshop.
The decision followed a comprehensive review of Mr. Tayibu’s profile by the Guild’s six-member Awards Committee constituted by the National President of GOMEP-NG, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, to identify individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted business, national development and humanitarian service.
Announcing the committee’s decision in Abuja, the Secretary of the Awards Committee, Prince Clinton Uba, said Mr. Tayibu emerged as a deserving recipient after an extensive assessment of his achievements in entrepreneurship, construction, engineering, finance, renewable energy and philanthropy.
According to Uba, the committee was particularly impressed by Mr. Tayibu’s sustained record of corporate excellence, visionary leadership and commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable members of society through the EL-TAYIB Foundation and other community-focused initiatives.
He noted that the award is reserved for distinguished Nigerians whose professional accomplishments and public service have contributed meaningfully to economic growth, private sector development and national progress.
The Guild said the recognition is intended to celebrate Mr. Tayibu’s outstanding leadership in business and his enduring commitment to humanitarian causes, describing him as a role model whose accomplishments continue to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and nation builders.
Mr. Tayibu is expected to receive the award during the GOMEP-NG Annual Conference, Lecture and Workshop, where policymakers, media executives, business leaders and other stakeholders will gather to deliberate on issues affecting Nigeria’s digital media landscape and national development.
Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, the NDC Delta North Senatorial Candidate, led a delegation of party candidates on consultation visits to traditional rulers and institutions in Utagba-Ogbe and Emu Kingdoms on Friday, 23 October 2026.
The delegation first met with the Obi Ndu Eze Council of Chiefs in Utagba-Ogbe, where Ochei outlined his vision for the development of Ndokwa Nation.
He expressed concern that communities endowed with substantial natural gas deposits continue to face inadequate electricity supply. Drawing on his background as a power engineer, he explained how the Okpai Power Plant could be leveraged as part of efforts to improve power supply across Delta North.
Ochei also called on the people to hold prospective representatives accountable by examining their previous performance and stated plans. He referenced his record as a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, during which he facilitated constituency projects and oversaw the renovation of the Assembly complex.
Other members of the delegation included Dr. Ugochukwu Nwokolo (Overdo), Engr. Edwin Nzei (NDC candidate for Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency), the party’s candidate for Ndokwa West State Constituency, and NDC Delta North chairman Hon. Aaron Udoka Ebenuwa.
The team later proceeded in a procession to the palace of HRM Isaac Obi, the Oduosa I of Utagba-Ogbe. The visit drew public attention, with residents gathering along streets, shops, and market areas in Kwale.
At the palace, Ochei paid respects to the monarch and recalled the passage of the Anti-Kidnapping law during his tenure as Speaker as evidence of his capacity to deliver results. The traditional ruler, accompanied by his council, received the candidates, offered prayers for their aspirations, and urged them to remain committed to the development of Ndokwa Nation.
The consultation continued at Emu Kingdom, where the delegation was warmly received. Ochei assured residents of his commitment to promoting development through effective legislative representation. He stressed that reliable electricity must be prioritised, noting that improved power supply could stimulate businesses, attract investment, create jobs, and unlock local economic potential.
HRM Johnson Ekpechi, the Obueweh of Emu Kingdom, expressed support for the candidates’ development agenda, which he said aligns with broader calls for Nigeria to shift from a consumption-driven economy toward one focused on production and value creation.
The visits to Utagba-Ogbe and Emu Kingdoms highlighted electricity, infrastructure, economic transformation, and purposeful representation as priorities for Ndokwa Nation.
Ochei maintained that the region’s natural resources should translate into tangible benefits for its people through policies that support industrialisation, empower young people, and raise living standards.
Vote Mr. Peter Obi for president Vote Dcn Chris Iyovwaye for Governor Vote Rt. Hon Victor Ochei for senate Vote NDC 5/5 ✌🏾
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the massive turnout at the All Progressives Congress (APC) mobilisation rally in Kaduna as a strong expression of public support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration’s reform agenda.
Speaking at the rally on Saturday, Idris said the gathering reflected the growing national acceptance of the President’s policies, noting that supporters travelled from different parts of the country to participate in the event. According to him, the broad participation underscored the administration’s appeal beyond regional and political divides.
The minister acknowledged that the economic reforms had imposed short-term difficulties on Nigerians but maintained that the measures were necessary to reposition the country for sustainable growth. He expressed confidence that the reforms would ultimately translate into improved living standards and greater national prosperity.
Also speaking, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the Federal Government had taken bold and difficult decisions aimed at rebuilding the economy. He stressed that the gains already being recorded should be consolidated through policy consistency and sustained implementation.
Alake described the administration’s reform programme as a transition from economic restructuring to prosperity, insisting that the country was gradually moving towards long-term stability and inclusive development.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Enlightenment and Secretary of the Directorate of Media and Strategic Communications of the Presidential Campaign Council 2027, Malam Abdul’aziz Abdul’aziz, said the campaign would focus on showcasing the administration’s achievements across critical sectors.
According to him, initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), ongoing infrastructure projects and other government interventions provide tangible evidence of the administration’s performance and justify its bid for another term in office.
KADUNA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday formally flagged off the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2027 presidential campaign in Kaduna, using the occasion to defend his administration’s economic reforms and appeal for another mandate to consolidate ongoing development initiatives.
Addressing a massive gathering of party supporters alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described the turnout as a strong endorsement of the administration, recalling the support that brought him to office three years ago and expressing confidence in the future of the APC.
The President said his administration inherited deep economic challenges but had taken bold decisions to reverse years of fiscal distortions. He maintained that the removal of fuel subsidy, the crackdown on fraudulent fuel claims and efforts to curb smuggling were necessary reforms that would lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Responding to criticism over the country’s economic hardship, Tinubu argued that the current administration was confronting the challenges with courage and determination, insisting that the ongoing reforms were designed to create jobs, reward hard work and improve the living standards of Nigerians.
Acknowledging the sacrifices made by citizens, the President assured Nigerians that the temporary difficulties would yield lasting benefits. He pledged to remain committed to ensuring that the gains of the reforms translate into improved household incomes, stronger businesses and greater economic opportunities.
Tinubu also commended APC governors for executing infrastructure and social development projects across their states, saying increased revenues from the administration’s reforms were enabling investments in roads, hospitals, schools, markets and other public services while improving salary payments.
Looking ahead to the January 16, 2027 presidential election, the President urged eligible voters to obtain and use their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to renew the mandate of the Tinubu-Shettima administration. He also expressed appreciation to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna for hosting what he described as a successful and symbolic opening of the APC’s nationwide campaign.
Governorship candidate pushes industrialisation agenda as party intensifies stakeholder engagement
By Ikechukwu Chukwudi-Abiandu (The Legacydreamz).
The Delta State campaign team of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), led by its governorship candidate, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has visited and consulted Chief Nwachukwu, (Benco Pools) and his grassroots movement in Agbor as part of its stakeholder engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The delegation included the NDC Delta North Senatorial candidate, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor Ochei, Esq., FNSE; Ika Federal Constituency candidate, Engr. Emmanuel Leonard Nwachukwu (Bawo); Ika North-East Constituency I candidate, Engr. Sylvester Chukwuedo; and Ika South Constituency candidate, Mrs. Ogor Tony-Obuh. The party’s Delta North Senatorial Chairman, Hon. Aaron Udoka Ebenuwa, also led members of the party leadership on the visit.
Addressing his host, Iyovwaye criticised what he described as the poor management of Delta State’s common patrimony and a lack of innovative leadership capable of translating the state’s enormous resources into tangible benefits for its people.
He made a case for industrialisation as a pathway to economic growth, job creation and sustainable development, assuring the gathering that the NDC was determined to change the state’s development trajectory through practical policies and measurable results.
The governorship candidate also expressed confidence in the quality of the party’s candidates across all levels, from its presidential candidate, H.E. Peter Obi, CON, to the State House of Assembly, describing them as capable of offering a different approach to governance.
He called for the support of Chief Nwachukwu and his associates, arguing that Delta State had far greater economic potential than its current level of development reflected.
In his remarks, Rt. Hon Ochei thanked Chief Nwachukwu for receiving the delegation and recalled his earlier visit to the business leader a few days before the meeting. He described the developing relationship as a partnership with the potential to benefit all parties, particularly the people.
The other candidates also outlined their commitment to effective representation and development, reinforcing the delegation’s message of coordinated engagement across Ika Federal Constituency and Delta North.
The consultation forms part of the NDC’s wider outreach to community and business stakeholders as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections. The party’s message centred on industrialisation, responsible management of public resources and the need to translate Delta’s wealth into improved opportunities for its citizens.
