Media personality and public affairs commentator, T
Comr. Akpovoke Otiti, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist and respected broadcaster, Tunde Omonode, describing his death as a painful loss to the media profession and to the many individuals who benefitted from his wealth of experience.
Otiti, who spoke to AljaziralPress on Saturday Morning noted that the late Omonode was not just a colleague in the media space but a mentor whose wisdom and professional guidance shaped the careers of many upcoming journalists and broadcasters across the country.
According to him, the late media icon, popularly addressed by many as “Boss,” represented a rare breed of journalists whose commitment to truth, discipline, and professionalism stood as a model for younger practitioners in the industry.
Otiti added that countless media professionals, himself inclusive, learnt invaluable lessons from Omonode’s dedication to responsible journalism, stressing that his voice, mentorship, and influence will be deeply missed within the Nigerian media landscape.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed media guru and extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the entire media community, urging them to take solace in the enduring legacy left behind by the late Tunde Omonode.
Warri – The Executive Assistant (E.A) on Political Matters to the Governor of Delta State, Olorogun Samson Gordons Okomitie (JP), has formally made his intention known to contest the Ughelli South Constituency seat in the Delta State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Okomitie, widely known as the “White Lion,” made his political intention known during a consultative visit to members of the Ughelli South United Forum (USUF), a respected pressure group in the constituency.
The meeting took place at the residence of the forum’s leadership and attracted key stakeholders and supporters from across the area.
Speaking during the engagement, Okomitie explained that his decision to step forward was driven by the need for purposeful and people oriented representation for the people of Ughelli South.
He stressed that the constituency deserves strong legislative advocacy that will promote development and improve the welfare of the people.
The frontline political figure further stated that he will be seeking the mandate of the people under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressing optimism that with the support of the people and divine grace, he will succeed in the political journey ahead.
Leaders of the Ughelli South United Forum welcomed Okomitie and his delegation, commending him for reaching out to stakeholders in the spirit of consultation and inclusiveness.
They noted that such engagements are essential for strengthening unity and democratic participation within the constituency.
Those on ground to receive him included the Chairman of the forum, Chief Godwin Okporoko, alongside other notable personalities such as Chief Prince Okiemute Oviri, Chief Steven Ovedje and Chief Josephine Oduaran, among several other respected community leaders.
Okomitie was accompanied by a large entourage of political associates, community figures and long time allies who joined him for the visit.
Among them were Chief Scott Udu, Chief Vincent Uduaran, Osu Ighelle Blessed Ughere, Hon. Ghanabar of Ghanabar Motors, Comrade Sunny Basikoro, Hon. Bright Ovayaro and Chief Charles Buluku. Others in the delegation included his Personal Assistant, Achoja Macaulay; Peeco of Peeco Communications; Engr. Julius Agbigbe; Chucks; Harriet Akophre, as well as several supporters who came out in solidarity as the political consultation continues ahead of the 2027 electoral season.
The Legislative Arm of Ughelli North Local Government Council has officially approved the 2026 budget of the council following its plenary session held on March 5th, 2026. At the sitting, members of the Ughelli North Legislative House deliberated extensively on the financial proposal presented for the fiscal year before unanimously passing it, thereby giving legal backing for the implementation of programmes and projects contained in the budget.
The lawmakers described the passage of the budget as a crucial step towards sustaining development and ensuring that government activities in the local government area are effectively funded throughout the year.
During the deliberations, the House also reviewed the performance of the Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun (Barr.) Jaro Omovudu Egbo, KSC, particularly in the area of infrastructural development and service delivery.
Following the review, the legislators unanimously passed a vote of implicit confidence on the council chairman, citing what they described as his impressive developmental strides and commitment to improving the welfare of the people. The House further commended the chairman for executing quality and people oriented projects across the local government area, noting that such initiatives have continued to positively impact communities within the council.
Lawmakers also acknowledged the cordial and productive working relationship that currently exists between the legislative and executive arms of the local government, stressing that the synergy has contributed significantly to the progress being recorded.
This resolution, confirming the passage of the 2026 budget and the vote of confidence on the chairman, was duly authenticated and signed by the Clerk of the House, Emmanuel Tagbajumi, on behalf of the Ughelli North Legislative Arm.
The Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun (Barr.) Jaro Movudu Egbo, KSC, has approved the immediate dissolution of the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) at Otovwodo Motor Park, previously led by Comrade Solomon Esharive.
The directive was conveyed in an official statement issued by the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Pastor Goodluck Frikefe Unuavworho, who noted that the decision was taken in line with the powers vested in the local government council under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
According to the statement, local governments remain the statutory authorities responsible for the administration, management, and regulation of motor parks within their jurisdictions.
The council therefore exercised its authority to dissolve the existing executive in the interest of effective governance. The council further directed the former executive members led by Comrade Solomon Esharive to stay away from the Otovwodo Motor Park with immediate effect, stressing that the decision was taken to maintain public peace, order, and smooth administration of the facility.
To ensure continuity and proper management of activities at the motor park, the council announced the appointment of a seven-member Caretaker Committee to oversee the affairs of the park pending further directives from the local government authorities.
The newly constituted committee will be headed by Comrade Austine Asawhare as Chairman, while Comrade Ebruphiyor Oharisi will serve as Secretary. Comrade Apa Akpodamure was named Treasurer, with Comrade Samuel Ememejere appointed as a member of the committee.
Other members of the caretaker committee include Comrade Orowhe Eloho, Comrade Omonigho Urhie, and Comrade Ogheneovo Jewo, who are expected to work collectively to maintain order and ensure smooth operations within the park.
The Ughelli North Local Government Council therefore urged the general public, transport operators, and all stakeholders to take note of the development and extend the necessary cooperation to the newly appointed caretaker committee as it discharges its responsibilities.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring peace, proper coordination, and efficient management of motor park activities across the local government area.
Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State have insisted that the party remains formidable in the state despite recent defections, declaring that its structure and support base are still intact.
The leaders spoke on Friday during an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba ahead of the party’s local government congresses scheduled to take place across the state on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Former Deputy Governor of the state, Kingsley Otuaro, said the ongoing congress process marked the beginning of a deliberate effort to rebuild and strengthen the party from the grassroots.
According to him, the stakeholders’ meeting followed the successful conduct of ward congresses and was aimed at preparing party members for the next phase of the exercise.
Otuaro urged members to remain steadfast despite the challenges confronting the party, including internal disputes and ongoing court cases.
“We are on the path of legality, operating strictly within the rules and regulations guiding our party. The law is the law and it will always stand against impunity,” he said.
He maintained that the party leadership and stakeholders had remained committed to the rule of law throughout the process and expressed confidence that the PDP would emerge stronger.
Otuaro also reiterated that Delta State remained a stronghold of the PDP, stressing that the ongoing congress process was aimed at reasserting the party’s dominance in the state.
“Delta State is a PDP state. Despite everything that has happened, we are here to reassert the strength, dominance and leadership of the PDP in the state,” he said.
Also speaking, former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, Peter Mrakpor, said members who had chosen to remain in the party did so out of conviction and belief in the PDP.
He dismissed fears that the party would collapse, insisting that the PDP remained alive and strong.
“This party is not dead. As you can see, it will never die. If some of us have decided to remain here, it is because we believe it is the proper thing to do,” Mrakpor said.
He likened political party membership to religious affiliation, noting that just as individuals freely choose the church they attend, party members also have the constitutional right to belong to any political party of their choice.
“As a lawyer, I ask this question: can anyone go to court and obtain an injunction to stop me from being a member of the PDP? The answer is no,” he said.
Mrakpor emphasized that democracy thrives on freedom of association and peaceful political engagement, adding that PDP members were committed to nurturing and growing the party.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the PDP Congress Panel for Delta State, Austin Nwachukwu, said the congresses were being conducted in line with directives from the party’s national leadership and would be carried out through the consensus method.
Nwachukwu dismissed claims that the PDP had been completely depleted in Delta following recent defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Some people say everybody in Delta State has moved to the APC. But looking at the large number of party faithful gathered here, can anyone honestly say that the PDP has disappeared? The answer is clearly no,” he said.
He explained that the panel, constituted by the National Working Committee of the party, had put in place mechanisms to ensure the smooth and transparent conduct of the congresses across the state’s local government areas.
According to him, a Local Organising Committee had also been established to coordinate activities in the various local government areas while members of the panel would monitor the process to ensure compliance with the party’s constitution and guidelines.
Nwachukwu further disclosed that the congress process had received a boost following a ruling by the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan which affirmed the legitimacy of the PDP national leadership led by Umar Damagum as Acting National Chairman and Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary.
He said the judgment had strengthened the legality of the ongoing congresses in Delta State.
The panel chairman also expressed optimism that some members who recently left the PDP would eventually return.
“Even those who are being celebrated as having defected today came from the PDP. When they get there and discover the environment is not as comfortable as they imagined, many of them will return, and we will receive them,” he said.
Party leaders at the meeting urged members to remain loyal to the PDP and protect the integrity of the congress process as the party moves to rebuild its structures across the state ahead of future political contests.
For his service to Delta State as the Deputy Governor between 1999 to 2007, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Thursday, led the entire legislative institution in the state to the residence of late Chief B.S.C Elue at Obior, Aniocha North to commiserate with the family.
The delegation, comprising principal officers and members of the Assembly, was received by the wife of the former Deputy Governor, Lady Esther Elue, flanked by the children, other relatives, and notable indigenes of Obior, an agrarian community regarded in some quarters as the traditional headquarters of Ezechima kingdom.
The Speaker, Rt Hon Guwor, in his remarks, described the late Chief Benjamin Elue as a dedicated public servant who contributed significantly to the development of Delta State and Nigeria as a nation.
He recalled the former Deputy Governor’s commitment to the people of Delta State and his efforts to promote peace and unity in the state, saying that Chief Elue, as number two citizen of the state, had a wonderful relationship with the state legislature.
“On behalf of the Delta State House of Assembly, I extend our heartfelt condolences to this family of the late former Deputy Governor. May his soul rest in peace and may the family find comfort in the Almighty God during this difficult time”, Guwor said.
The Speaker commended Chief Elue’s humility and service to humanity, saying that his legacy would be remembered for generations to come.
The Member Representing Aniocha North and Leader of the House, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, who joined the Elue’s family to receive the Speaker and colleagues, also extolled the late former Deputy Governor’s legendary role, describing him as a leader of great repute even in death.
The family expressed their gratitude for the show of solidarity and prayers during this difficult time, saying that the visit was a source of comfort to the family and a testament to the esteem in which the late former Deputy Governor was held.
The condolence visit was marked with a minute silence for the repose of the soul of the departed, prayers, words of solace for the bereaved family, and signing the condolence register.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to the Speaker, Nkem Nwaeke, revealed that Mr Speaker also led the Assembly members to the residence of a two-termed Chairman, Delta State House of Assembly Service Commission, Mrs Josephine Ada Kachikwu, at a neighboring Onicha Ugbo community, also in Aniocha North, where they felicitated with her on her 77th birthday anniversary.
The Speaker praised Mrs Kachukwu for her diligence in service to God and humanity and prayed for more God’s fulfillment in her life.
Rt Hon Guwor together with others, wished the Septuagenarian a happy birthday and many more years of service.
In her response, Mrs Kachukwu expressed her gratitude to the Speaker and members of the Assembly for the visit and birthday wishes.
She appreciated the recognition and promised to continue to pray for the Assembly and the state.
Asaba – Chief Mrs. Grace Aghoghovbia has warmly congratulated the newly elected State Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, describing their emergence at the just concluded party congress as a significant milestone for the growth and stability of the party in the state.
In a goodwill message made available to journalists, Aghoghovbia heartily celebrated the emergence of Chief Solomon Arayenka as the new Delta APC Chairman, noting that his leadership comes at a critical moment when the party requires unity of purpose, internal cohesion and renewed commitment to grassroots mobilisation across the state.
She particularly commended the peaceful conduct of the congress, which, according to her, reflected the collective maturity of party stakeholders and delegates, and demonstrated the growing resolve of the APC in Delta State to entrench democratic values, transparency and credible internal processes.
Aghoghovbia also expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, for the calm and enabling atmosphere that prevailed throughout the exercise, describing the hitch free congress as a clear indication of leadership that prioritises peace, dialogue and political stability in the state.
According to her, the smooth congress has further strengthened public confidence in the political process and created a solid platform for the APC to reposition itself ahead of future political engagements, while fostering cooperation among party leaders, youths and women across the various local government areas.
She urged the newly elected executives to embrace inclusive leadership and work collectively to advance the ideals of the party in Delta State and Nigeria, assuring them of her continued support and commitment to the collective aspiration of building a stronger, united and people driven APC in the state.
Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and development economist, Dr. O’Diakpo Obire, has commended Seyi Tinubu and the City Boy Movement for spearheading a nationwide grassroots campaign that is deepening public awareness of the achievements of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, Obire also commended the management of the City Boy Movement, led by Tosin Shoga, for their disciplined organization, strategic coordination, and innovative approach in mobilizing youth participation across the country.
According to him, the movement has become instrumental in bridging the communication gap between government reforms and the everyday Nigerian, particularly at a time when bold economic decisions require sustained public understanding and support.
Obire highlighted the measurable impact of the administration’s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said has saved the country an estimated ₦1 trillion monthly, allowing funds to be redirected toward infrastructure, social investment programmes, and fiscal stabilization. He added that FAAC allocations to states have increased by over 40 percent on average, enabling many states to meet salary obligations and embark on new capital projects.
He also cited exchange rate unification and fiscal reforms as drivers for renewed investor confidence, with improved foreign capital inflows and gradual stabilization of the naira. Ongoing investments in roads, rail modernization, power projects, digital economy initiatives, student loans, and MSME funding schemes are already stimulating employment and supporting vulnerable Nigerians.
Obire praised Seyi Tinubu’s direct engagement with youths and communities across the country, describing it as “a refreshing model of participatory politics.” He added, “The City Boy Movement, under the management of Tosin Shoga, has taken governance communication to the streets and campuses, explaining policies in clear terms and mobilizing young Nigerians to see themselves as stakeholders in national development.”
He concluded by urging party faithfuls and civic groups to continue rallying behind the administration’s vision. “What we are witnessing is a new wave of political consciousness powered by young people who believe in results and accountability. The Tinubu administration is laying the foundation for long-term economic stability, and the City Boy Movement is ensuring that Nigerians understand and support that journey.”
Abuja – In a heartfelt message, Dr. O’Diakpo Obire, an Ovu son, has congratulated Dr. Thompson Adogbeji Salubi, the esteemed Osivie of Ovu, on reaching the remarkable milestone of his 90th birthday.
Dr. Obire described Dr. Salubi as a towering figure in Ovu and a revered custodian of Urhobo history and culture, whose life of service has left an indelible mark on his community and the wider Urhobo Nation. He highlighted Dr. Salubi’s exceptional contributions in preserving the history and traditions of the Urhobo people, including his meticulous documentation of the experiences of Urhobo communities during the colonial era, works that continue to serve as vital references for scholars and future generations.
“Dr. Salubi’s leadership has been a beacon of wisdom, integrity, and vision,” Dr. Obire said. “Through his stewardship of the Urhobo Progress Union, he strengthened unity among Urhobo communities, promoted educational advancement, and inspired generations of leaders. His commitment to principled service has set a standard for all of us in Ovu and beyond.”
As an Ovu son, Dr. Obire expressed immense pride in having Dr. Salubi as his community leader, noting that his guidance has enriched the social, cultural, and moral fabric of Ovu, a revered community within Agbon Kingdom. He commended the Osivie for his lifelong advocacy for education, cultural awareness, and community cohesion, which continue to shape the identity and aspirations of the people. Dr. Obire prayed for the Osivie’s continued health, happiness, and divine favour, celebrating his enduring contributions to Ovu and the Urhobo Nation. “May your wisdom, courage, and dedication continue to inspire not only your people but all who cherish the progress of our communities,” he said. Concluding the message, Dr. Obire urged younger generations to emulate the exemplary life and leadership of Dr. Salubi, ensuring that his legacy of service, scholarship, and integrity endures for many more generations to come.
Dr. Obire Salutes Dr. T.E.A. Salubi, Osivie of Ovu, on His 90th Birthday Abuja – In a heartfelt message, Dr. O’Diakpo Obire, an Ovu son, has congratulated Dr. Thompson Adogbeji Salubi, the esteemed Osivie of Ovu, on reaching the remarkable milestone of his 90th birthday.
Dr. Obire described Dr. Salubi as a towering figure in Ovu and a revered custodian of Urhobo history and culture, whose life of service has left an indelible mark on his community and the wider Urhobo Nation. He highlighted Dr. Salubi’s exceptional contributions in preserving the history and traditions of the Urhobo people, including his meticulous documentation of the experiences of Urhobo communities during the colonial era, works that continue to serve as vital references for scholars and future generations.
“Dr. Salubi’s leadership has been a beacon of wisdom, integrity, and vision,” Dr. Obire said. “Through his stewardship of the Urhobo Progress Union, he strengthened unity among Urhobo communities, promoted educational advancement, and inspired generations of leaders. His commitment to principled service has set a standard for all of us in Ovu and beyond.”
As an Ovu son, Dr. Obire expressed immense pride in having Dr. Salubi as his community leader, noting that his guidance has enriched the social, cultural, and moral fabric of Ovu, a revered community within Agbon Kingdom. He commended the Osivie for his lifelong advocacy for education, cultural awareness, and community cohesion, which continue to shape the identity and aspirations of the people.
Dr. Obire prayed for the Osivie’s continued health, happiness, and divine favour, celebrating his enduring contributions to Ovu and the Urhobo Nation. “May your wisdom, courage, and dedication continue to inspire not only your people but all who cherish the progress of our communities,” he said.
Concluding the message, Dr. Obire urged younger generations to emulate the exemplary life and leadership of Dr. Salubi, ensuring that his legacy of service, scholarship, and integrity endures for many more generations to come.
A peace and environmental rights advocate, Chief (Dr) Mulade Sheriff, has called on the Delta State Government to urgently embrace large-scale industrialization as a strategy to curb rising unemployment and worsening socio-economic conditions in the state.
Mulade made the call in a statement released to journalists in Warri on Wednesday, where he expressed concern over what he described as an alarming rate of unemployment across the state, particularly among the youths. Which pose a strong security threats to the state in no distance time.
While commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he termed “remarkable and visible achievements” in infrastructure development across urban cities in Delta State, Mulade stressed that physical infrastructure alone would not sufficiently address the growing challenges of poverty, hunger and joblessness.
According to him, the state must deliberately shift attention to policies that stimulate industrial growth and expand employment opportunities for its teeming population.
“The governor has recorded landmark achievements in road construction and other critical infrastructure, and these efforts are commendable. However, the rising level of unemployment is an indication to security threats, therfore demands urgent attention.
Without industrialization, the problem of poverty and hunger will continue to worsen,” he said.
Mulade, who is also the Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, urged the state government to revive moribund industries and create an enabling environment that would attract local and foreign investors.
He added that Delta State’s strategic location, abundant natural resources and human capital gave it a competitive advantage to emerge as an industrial hub if the right policies and political will were put in place.
“The government should introduce deliberate and people-centred industrial policies, support small and medium-scale enterprises, and encourage private sector participation. Sustainable job creation can only be achieved through a robust industrial base,” Mulade noted.
The renowned environmental rights advocate, maintained that aggressive industrialization would not only reduce unemployment but also boost internally generated revenue and enhance long-term economic stability in the state.
AljaziralPress 