TheNewsGuru

Tag: Delta State

  • Delta govt demotes two engineers for certifying uncompleted projects

    Delta govt demotes two engineers for certifying uncompleted projects

    Delta State Government has demoted two serving engineers for issuing certificates of job completion on road projects which were yet to be completed.

    The affected officers, Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere and Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia, were demoted from Deputy Director to Assistant Director and Assistant Director to Chief Engineer respectively.

    The action was sequel to a letter conveying the outcome of a disciplinary committee signed by William O. Ogolokpe for the Head of Service.

    According to two separate letters, which read in parts; “That you Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere is found culpable of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and thereby reduced you in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Deputy Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 16 to that of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer), SGL 15 with effect from 1st January 2024.

    “That you Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia is found culpable of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and thereby reduced you in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15 to that of Chief Civil Engineer, SGL 14 with effect from 1st January 2024.

    “Accordingly, your next promotion to the post of Deputy Director and Assistant Director will now take effect from 1st January, 2028 and 1st January, 2027 respectively.”

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had earlier cautioned that there would be no sacred cows in the quest to ensure quality projects delivery and value for money for Deltans.

    At a recent ceremony in Asaba, Oborevwori, a compassionate but firm leader, particularly appealed to the disciplinary committee to temper justice with mercy by commuting the sentence from outright dismissal from service to reduction in rank.

    He warned that subsequent offenders would face the full wrath of the law.

  • Delta Blazes Trail In CNG Vehicles

    Delta Blazes Trail In CNG Vehicles

    …Signs Conversion MoU With NIPCO

    Delta State Government and NIPCO Gas Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion centre of vehicles in the state.

    The brief ceremony took place in Asaba on Thursday with the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Onoriode Agofure, and the Attorney -General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, signing on behalf of the state government, while Mr Sanjay Tarat signed for NIPCO Gas Limited.

    After the signing of the MOU, Dr Emu said it was a deliberate effort of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to provide a place for residents of Asaba to convert their petrol – dependent vehicles to CNG- powered ones.

    He challenged the company to ensure that it made good use of the place provided for the take -off of the project, in addition to sticking to quality standard in handling the project.

    Emu said Governor Oborevwori “takes seriously the issue of timeliness and quality” and warned that the state would not hesitate to revoke the MoU if the company failed to perform accordingly.

    He said; “we have shown commitment by providing you with a 3,000 square meters facility in the heart of Asaba.

    “The conversion to CNG is the way to go; the governor was among the very few governors who drove in an E.V and CNG vehicles. Yes, planning takes a while and here we are with this engagement.

    “It shows that we want to get the fundamentals right before we start getting the vehicles. Without the CNG stations in our environment, we can’t go anywhere.

    “So, we like to welcome you to Delta State. This ceremony is important to us and the name chosen is a brand and NIPCO is one, especially as it concerns CNG; one of the foremost in the country.

    “Timelines are very critical to us. Please, endeavour to keep to timelines. I am sure you have heard about His Excellency’s penchant for timelines and quality jobs on the social media space.

    “We shall not hesitate to revoke this MoU on account of your inability to perform. We do know you can perform and your inability to perform, we have mitigated by providing the space; which is also what we owe you. Therefore, the ball is in your court”, he added.

    The team later moved to the site of the project on Summit Road by Inter Bau Roundabout, Asaba for official handle over.

    They were conducted round by the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Onoriode Agofure, who disclosed that CNG was more cost- effective than petrol and called on citizens to embrace it.

    On his part, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said; “You may want to ask why we are starting now, we had to do a good feasibility study. We felt that we cannot bring in CNG busses when there are no stations to fuel them.

    “You must first and foremost have where you will fuel and refuel these vehicles before they can start running. And let me assure you that the fact that they are starting in Asaba does not mean they are stopping here.

    “Once this is done, we will move to other major cities, starting with Warri, and, later, the various local government headquarters. So, we believe that once this is done, given the difference between the cost of CNG and PMS, the cost of transportation will definitely come down.

    “The government has also assured that all that is needed for them to meet the deadline will be made available. And you heard them mention that this is the first time a governor is practically involved.”

    The Chief Operating Officer of NIPCO Gas Limited, Mr Sanjay Tarat, appreciated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other top officials of the state for facilitating the process.

    “I appreciate Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for this opportunity and the Commissioner for Transport. Delta State is the first state in Nigeria to have provided this kind of location for our CNG.

    “We definitely promised the Commissioner that we will need six months to complete it. But be rest assured that this job will be completed before then and we will prove it.

    “The only thing is that we have to follow all the laws and rules. We definitely know that this being the first station, will not be the last station. So, we are very thankful to the Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori and Delta State Government.”

  • Just in: Family confirms passage of EK Clark

    Just in: Family confirms passage of EK Clark

    The family of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, one Nigeria’s longest living elder statesmen, has confirmed his passage.

    Clark’s death was confirmed in an official statement signed by Prof. C. C. Clark on behalf of the family and Mr. Penawei Clark on behalf of his children.

    According to the statement, the elder statesman breathed his last on Monday, February 17, 2025.

    The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025,” the statement read.

    The family expressed appreciation for prayers and support during this time of mourning, adding that further details regarding his funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course.

    Clark, a revered advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta region, played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape, serving in various capacities as a minister, elder statesman, and activist. His death marks the end of an era for the Niger Delta struggle and Nigeria’s political history.

  • Oborevwori bags Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference award for good governance

    Oborevwori bags Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference award for good governance

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been honoured by the Ethiope Baptist Conference in recognition of his numerous contributions to human capital development, the advancement of good governance in the State and for the growth and advancement of God’s kingdom.

     

    The award was presented to Governor Oborevwori during the 11th Annual Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference held at Orerokpe, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.

     

    Presenting the award to Governor Oborevwori, the President of Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference, Rev. Dr Friday Ejobee, said the Governor was honoured by the Baptist Church for his exemplary leadership and passionate interest in the development of Delta State.

     

    He commended Governor Oborevwori for his passion for the church and assured him of the prayers of the church for a successful administration.

     

    He said Governor Oborevwori was underrated but had surprised naysayers by his outstanding accomplishments in office.

     

    Ejobee said, “we, as a people, at our Executive Committee meeting, while we were looking at those who had affected the church massively in the state and beyond, the name of Governor Oborevwori ranked number one and the Executive Committee unanimously voted and approved that during the 11th annual conference we extend a special invitation to Governor Oborevwori to be honoured by the Baptist people for his exemplary leadership and passionate interest in the development of Delta State.

     

    “We have identified the role you have played, particularly the interest you have for the work of God and I must commend you for approving the sponsorship of 250 pilgrims to the Holy Land.

     

    “I am a Pastor and not a politician but I know that, as of today, we are not aware that any other person is contesting to be Governor in 2027.

     

    “We only know of Elder Sheriff Oborevwori and we are very sure that when the time comes, we will do what we know how to do best.

     

    “The Ethiope Baptist Conference, therefore, presents this award to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in appreciation of his numerous contributions to human capital development and the advancement of good governance in Delta State as well as the growth and advancement of God’s kingdom.”

     

    Responding, Governor Oborevwori thanked the Ethiope Delta Baptist Conference for the award and acknowledged the Church’s pivotal role in his emergence and performance thus far as Governor.

     

    Represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Governor Oborevwori said that the church had been quite instructmental to the success of his administration.

     

    He noted that, as a man with the fear of God, he was always passionate about the advancement of the church as well as transforming the landscape of the state.

     

    The governor attributed the successes recorded by his administration in the areas of infrastructural development, and other areas, to the fervent prayers of the church, and, thus, solicited for more prayers of the church to enable him do more for Deltans.

     

    He added that his government was poised to restore the lost glory of Warri, bringing education closer to the people, ensuring the massive return of investors to the state, and the creation of jobs, amongst others.

     

    He said, “The fervent prayers of the church have contributed immensely to the success of the Oborevwori administration in the last 19 months.

     

    “Governor Oborevwori is interested in bringing education closer to the people and that is why he has established a campus of the Southern Delta University at Ozoro in Orerokpe. The establishment of these institutions is part of his M.O.R.E Agenda.

     

    “Just last week we had the maiden Exco meeting for 2025 and lots of projects were approved across the three senatorial districts in the state.

     

    “Governor Oborevwori is consistent in policy formulation and implementation and, on his inauguration day, he announced to the glee of the whole world that he will restore the lost glory of Warri and its environs.

     

    “So far, he has pursued that vision unrepentantly by engaging construction giants, Julius Berger to construct flyovers and road expansion works so that Warri can regain its lost glory and for investors to return.

     

    “Oborevwori was properly selected by God to advance Delta and it is my prayer that the church will continue to support his administration beyond 2027 to 2031.

     

    “Do not be tired in praying for Governor Oborevwori who has shown capacity and compassion in the governance of the state,” he added.

     

    In his sermon centered on evangelism, the guest Preacher, Rev. Gideon Oyibo, said evangelism was a key responsibility of all Christians and not for preachers alone.

     

    The cleric remarked that the message was apt, going by the unwillingness of most christians to go for evangelism.

    He noted that evangelism was very important to God who is more interested in seeing souls saved for eternal life, rather than being destroyed in hell.

    Other eminent personalities, including Dr Caroline Unobunjo, were presented awards to for their contributions and support for the church and humanity.

  • MC2 kingdom comedy saga:This is our position on the matter-Income Electrix Ltd

    MC2 kingdom comedy saga:This is our position on the matter-Income Electrix Ltd

    …insists we are not enemies of Isoko Nation

    …we’ve dedicated 16yrs championing developmental strides in Isokoland

    Income Electrix Ltd, the company that is in the middle of the storm over a video posted alleging project abandonment has reacted putting the records straight for the sake of clarity.

    In a press statement made available to TheNewsGuru.ocom, (TNG) the company went memory lane to explain with vivid examples what has transpired so far and why the said project remains at 70percent to completion.

    In the statement, it made it abundantly clear that Income Electrix Ltd can never be an enemy of Isokoland because for more than one and half decades it has been championing developmental strides in the entire Isoko.

    Hear them:

    “As an organization, we have watched with amazement the events that have been unfolding since the arrest of Mr. Ajiri-Oghene Otagba aka
    MC2 Kingdom Comedy.

    “Even though we are unhappy victims, we understand the passion and emotions
    that have been steered up.

    “These reactions are of course due to: (i). Lack of knowledge of the facts
    about the issue and (ii).pent up anger about development issues that have plagued the Isoko Nation for a long time.

    “We are convinced that the logical thing to do at this moment is to provide the Isoko people
    with the facts and the truth as you deserve no less.

    “Based on the above understanding, we feel compelled as a company to set the records straight so that
    contrary to the false impression that was created about us, the Isoko Nation will appreciate how much we have contributed to the infrastructure development of the Isoko Nation as a company dedicated to
    the rapid development of the Niger Delta.

    “Let us start with the matter under contention, the 1x30MVA, 132/33KV Transmission Substation in
    Ozoro.

    “This project was conceptualized in 2006 by the Delta State IPP Committee and it entailed a 2 x 30MVA,
    132/33KV Substation and 132KV Double circuit line at Oghara in Ethope West, 132KV Double Circuit
    line from Ughelli Power Station to Afiesere in Ughelli North LGA and 1x15MVA, 132/33KV Substation
    each at Afiesere and Ozoro respectively awarded to Income Electrix Limited while the 46km, 132KV
    Double circuit, transmission line from Afiesere to Ozoro to feed the Ozoro 1x15MVA, 132/33KV
    substation was awarded to News Engineering Limited, a then Abuja-based Contracting company.

    “All these were done in the last days of Chief James Ibori administration.
    Upon Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan taking over in 2007, with Comrade Macaulay Ovuozourie as
    Commissioner for Energy, the project was stalled on the basis that the new Governor was not interested
    in the project.

    “Our company battled for 4 years to get the State Government to budget for these
    projects to no avail.

    “Our MD then initiated a meeting in Abuja with the House of Representatives
    Chairman of NDDC Committee Hon. Nicholas Mutu who is a very good friend of ours and with the
    support of Senator James Manager (his counterpart in the Nigerian Senate) and pleaded with them to
    list the projects in the NDDC budget which they did. with some reservation because the project was still
    with Delta State Government.

    “These two patriotic Deltans are still alive today. We then proceeded to
    meet with
    Ugwuoha the then Managing Director of NDDC, who had a need to do a presentation on
    NDDC to the British Council, but were having challenges on how to proceed.

    “We offered as Consultants
    to package the presentation for them in exchange for their accepting to take over the project from
    Delta State, since the Delta State Governor said they didn’t have fund to execute it any longer.

    “With this
    agreement in place we proceeded back to the Delta State Government to do a letter releasing the
    project to NDDC, which Governor Uduaghan directed his Commissioner, Comrade Macaulay to give to
    us.

    “That was how our company made history by changing client in Nigeria and not Contractor. It is
    instructive that we did not only transfer the project but also improved the scope from 1x15MVA to
    1x30MVA each for Afiesere and Ozoro as the 15MVA was already inadequate.

    “All these happened
    between 2007 and 2011.
    Thereafter, we embarked on the execution of the projects and completed that of Oghara which was
    commissioned by Prof. Nebo, Minister of Power under President Goodluck Jonathan.

    “We also
    completed the line from Ughelli Power Station to Afiesere and the Afiesere Substation and it was
    commissioned by Ibim Semenintari, then acting Managing Director of NDDC.

    “We achieved up to 70%
    completion of the Ozoro Substation in 2017 before we started experiencing incessant vandalism by
    thieves.

    “Furthermore, there was no 132KV line from Afiesere to Ozoro as the Contractor NEWS
    Engineering Limited was also not funded by DTSG and as such would not build the line.

    “We had to stop
    work on the 132KV Substation to stem further vandalization as nobody knew when the feeder 132KV
    line would be built.

    “Due to our deep relationship with the Isoko people, our company once again approached NDDC to take
    over the 132KV Line project from Delta State; a move both the State government and NEWS
    Engineering Limited resisted for 2 years.

    “In 2016, we finally succeeded when luckily Engr. Tuoyo
    Omatsuli was the ED Projects and Dr Emmanuel Audu-Ohwavborua was his Technical assistant. The line
    was then awarded to 3 Contractors, Income Electrix, Skyview Power Technologies and Kilowatt
    Engineering to facilitate speed of execution.

    “To this end, we convinced the board of NDDC to approve
    the Contract to be changed to dual currency, (Dollar and Naira) like all other Transmission and
    Generation projects in Nigeria and for a Letter of Credit (LC) to be issued to import all the materials
    (towers, insulators and conductors) for the project.

    “It was after this that the regime of the Interim
    Government began in NDDC and all efforts to get the LC opened have not been successful.

    “Till date we
    have pressured NDDC during the tenure of Hon. Minister Umana Okon Umana and even got a letter to
    President Buhari on the project, but it did not yield fruits.

    “Sometime mid last year the Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpor Thomas inquired about the status of
    the project from our MD, which he provided.

    “The distinguished Senator took it upon himself and
    worked very assiduously to put the project in the NDDC budget and even went further with us to
    engage the Senate Leader to lend his support to the project.

    “Our MD proceeded thereafter to the
    Managing Director and the Chairman of NDDC to press that with the budgetary provision, they would issue the Letters of Credit and increase the scope to 2 x 60MVA so that it can withstand envisa
    future expansion, and our company is still following up to ensure that this is done.

    “The delay on
    project has never been at any time the fault of Income Electrix or our MD as falsely stated.

    “On the contrary the continued survival of the project has been as a result of our doggedness and desire to
    it realized. It can be seen that over 75% of the total projects package has been completed and it has
    been our desire, irrespective of the obstacles, to fight to get all the 3 projects to successful completion

    “Income Electrix Limited is a very strong African brand with transnational footprints. We do not
    abandon projects, no matter what!!!
    It therefore came as a surprise when we saw the video of the Comedian in December last year accusing
    us of abandoning the project. Our MD immediately sent the video to Senator Joel-Onowakpor Thomas,
    the Chairman and the Managing Director of NDDC and the Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC for their information.

    “Even though it was provocative, we decided to assume that it was published out of
    ignorance about what was going on.

    “We then prepared an update as a company and sent it to the
    Comedian as well as publishing on most social media and online news channels, so that he could be well
    informed about our efforts and the status of the project.

    ” Some well-meaning people including an Isoko
    son, called Zino arranged a meeting to also update the Comedian in person.

    He attended the meeting
    which held in Warri and conceded that he was now well informed, but wanted to be given money to
    turn the table around and begin to work for us instead.

    “Our Management turned down this offer as it
    was inconsistent with our principles and also, we were not sure whether he was sent by some politicians
    or whether he was just a hustler working to make some money for himself and not in the interest of the
    Isoko people as he had seen clearly that we were working completely in the interest of the Isoko Nation.

    “Surprisingly due to our refusal to pay him, he went and made a second and more damaging video. It was
    at that point that our lawyers decided that in order to protect the integrity and reputation of our 32
    years old Company and our MD’s 39-year old professional career that a petition be sent to the Police
    complaining about cyber bullying and a civil suit to be commenced against him, since it was clear that if
    we do not pay him, he would continue to damage our reputation.

    ” In fact, the two videos he did had
    already popped up in a background check on our company for an international business transaction that
    we are currently struggling with.

    “The arrest of the Comedian was not ordered by our Company or by our MD and was not effected by us.

    “Our lawyers made a lawful petition to the office of the IG of Police on Cyber harassment, and we believe
    it is in the process of their investigation that he was picked up. In fact, we were informed that he
    hurriedly put together a retraction that we were no longer the ones to blame after he suspected that
    the Police were investigating his actions.

    “The retraction came after our lawyers had filed the petition.
    We do not know if it is relevant, but it is pertinent to state that our MD Matthew Edevbie brought light
    and not darkness to Isoko.

    “He designed the electrification of 42 towns in Isoko in 1986 while working for
    Chris Ogoro, the older brother of Senator Stella Omu.

    “He proceeded to become the Deputy Project
    Manager who brought the Power from Ughelli Power Station to Iyede, Olomoro, Emede, Igbide,
    Ovwodokpokpor, Evwen, Uzere, Oleh, Irri, Bethel, Oyede, Ada, Ivrogbo, Araya, Aviara, Ozoro, Idheze,
    Iluelogbo, Ellu etc.

    “We created upon the request of the Late Chairman of Income Electrix Limited, Mr Cyril Odu an Isoko
    man from Ofagbe, the project to the 7 benefitting Communities for the 132KV Substation, a contract in
    existence, but not yet executed as the Substation is not completed and therefore has nowhere yet to
    feed them from.

    The current Chairman of Income Electrix Limited is Gen. Alexander Ogomudia who is a
    most distinguished Isoko man from Uzere. Our MD spent 3 years of his very early career living in
    Olomoro and Oleh electrifying the entire Isoko land.

    “We struggled with Engr Elueni to attract the Substation to Ozoro during Governor James Ibori’s
    administration to help feed the network that our MD built as a young man. Income Electrix Limited has
    very deep personal attachments to Isoko and has struggled continuously to contribute her quota to the
    development of the land.

    “We have zero interest in unjustly persecuting a young Isoko man. However,
    we have a solemn duty in stopping the destruction of the reputation and integrity of a Company we
    have built to an enviable level locally and internationally for the past 32 years by a seemingly misguided
    young man who wants to make a quick buck or working for a 5th columnist under the guise of speaking
    out for his people.

    As can be seen from our track records, we have been working towards bringing light to Isoko and Not
    darkness. There is nobody in existence who has worked more to light up Isoko or knows more about the
    Electricity network of Isoko than us.

    In this whole saga, we are the unfortunate victims and oppressed
    being cast as the oppressor.

    Our MD spoke today (16/02/25) with the Distinguished Senator and we are happy about his desire to
    help resolve this issue and for that we thank him. However, the statement in paragraph 1 of his tweet
    on X seems to suggest that the project was left to rot by us.

    The Senator knows the truth and from our
    narrative above, the rot started with the Government of Delta refusing to take on the project for an
    initial 4 years and the 2 years it took us to transfer the 1st batch of the project to NDDC, then the 4
    years it took to transfer the line awarded to News Engineering to NDDC totaling 10 years, plus the last 6
    years at NDDC for budgetary and other bureaucratic constraints as a result of which they have been
    unable to open the Letter of Credit.

    ” This is a total of 16 years of battle fought by us single handedly for
    the Isoko Nation. The young man who made the second video is also aware of the facts as he was
    briefed and as such is not one of “such cases of speaking out against injustice” as stated by the
    respected Senator.

    We, however, understand the need for the Senator to be politically correct but we
    would rather he informed the people of the truth for lasting peace.

    For the avoidance of doubt, neither Income Electrix Limited nor its MD ordered nor effected the arrest
    of the comedian and as such cannot carry out his release. We committed to doing all we can to support
    his release and not be an obstacle to it.

    “Notwithstanding, we are resolute in our commitment to
    protecting our hard-earned reputation and integrity and would seek every civil legal redress available to
    us.
    We salute all Sons and Daughters of the Isoko Nation.

  • Delta Assembly Majority Whip, Odior asks IGP to immediately release Otagba

    Delta Assembly Majority Whip, Odior asks IGP to immediately release Otagba

    The Majority whip of DTHA, and Member Representing Isoko North Constituency, Hon. (Barr.) Bernard Odior has called on the Inspector General Of Police, (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun for immediate release of Mr. Ajirioghen Otagba a.k.a Mc2kingdom.

    Odior in a statement issued through his SA on Media and Publicity, Onakome Michael, he described the Gestapo and Commando style of arrest of Mr. Ajirioghene Otagba as unconstitutional and infringement of right.

    According to the Majority whip: We have received the news of the arrest of my constituent by Chief Matthew Edebvie in respect to a video he made, calling for the completion of the 132KVA SUB-STATION electricity project awarded to Chief Edebvie by NDDC with the aim of improving power supply to advance social-economic development of Isoko Nation.

    The said video made by Mr. Ajirioghen Otagba should have been commended by Chief Edebvie in all ramifications instead of the arrest, because Isoko nation faced epileptic power supply which have upset the developmental strides by scaring investors.

    The Majority whip used the opportunity to call all contractors who have abandoned projects to move to sites and ensure that their projects are completed to standard of engineering measurement and evaluation as envisaged by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori JP to advance the social-economic activities in line with M.O.R.E Agenda.

    In summation, the former PDP State Legal Adviser, appreciates; all political leaders, social-cultural body (IDU), the press, advocates, youths bodies, concerned sons and daughters of Isoko Nation and well-wishers that have supported Mr. Ajirioghen Otagba since the news of the arrest broke out.

    ” I assure you that, Mr. Ajirioghene Otagba a.k.a MC2kingdom will be released unconditionally as all the relevant bodies from home and diaspora have stepped-into this matter.

    ” I want to appeal for calmness among the stakeholders and the youths to avoid breakdown of law and order as we work tirelessly for the release of our son, Mr. Ajirioghen Otagba, Hon. Odior said.

  • Isoko youths condemn Edevbie’s arrest of comedian over abandoned electricity project

    Isoko youths condemn Edevbie’s arrest of comedian over abandoned electricity project

    The Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA), has condemned in strong terms the illegal arrest of Comedian Ajirioghene Otagba popularly known as MC 2Kingdom by a contractor, Chief Matthew Edevbie.

    Edevbie, who is the contractor handling the abandoned 132 KVA Substation Electricity Project at Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State reportedly arrested Otagba for criticising the abandonment of the project.

    The Isoko Youths in a statement by INYA President, Comrade Eniwake Orogun, on Saturday, warned that if Mr Otagba was not released immediately and unconditionally there would be dire consequences.

    While calling on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene on the illegal arrest, the youths appealed to a former Governorship aspirant and brother to the contractor, Olorogun David Edevbie to prevail on his brother to release Mr Otagba unconditionally.

    The statement reads: On the Arrest of Ajirioghene Otagba!

    “We have received the news of the arrest of an Isoko son by Chief Matthew Edevbie, the elder brother to a former Delta State Governorship aspirant, David Edevbie in respect to a video he made, calling for the completion of the 132 kva substation electricity project awarded to Chief Matthew by NDDC with the aim of improving power supply in Isoko 14 years ago.

    “We have watched the video severally and found no reason whatsoever for the arrest, rather he should be commended by Edevbie and all meaningful individuals as it conforms to the federal government whistle blowing policy.

    “In the said video, the public and concerned stakeholders were notified of the vandalism going on at the project site. Edevbie was also called out to return to site and complete the project.

    “Rather than order a police arrest, he should have come out to explain any challenge or impediment to this project. The project is important to us and we want it completed.

    “Equally worrisome is the fact that the alleged ‘offence’ was committed in Ozoro, Delta state where the project site is situated but Chief Edevbie arrested this noble Isoko son in Lagos State in preparation for onward transfer to Abuja. This is purely is a case of intimidation.

    “Let it be known to Chief Edevbie and his company that we shall not stand idly and watch one of us being blatantly intimidated and  attempt to silence the call for the completion of the project.

    “As a responsible organisation, we are patiently waiting for the constitutionally allowed time for which Mr. Ajirioghene Otagba can be held in police custody before he can be charged to court, failure upon which shall be met with strong resistance as never seen before in the state, otherwise, he should be released unconditionally.

    “We are familiar with antics of the rich against the perceived weak and so will be unsurprised if the petition against Mr. Otagba will include mundane issues of threat to life, tarnishing of image and other concoctions. We are waiting.

    “We call on Olorogun David Edevbie to do the needful to protect his family name from being dragged to the mud. He must act timely and wisely immediately.

    “We call on the state governor to intervene immediately to avoid anarchy and chaos as there is already palpable tension and brewing unrest across Isoko which we shall not shy away from taking the lead should that become necessary.”

  • Jungle justice: 2 kidnap suspects set ablaze in Delta

    Jungle justice: 2 kidnap suspects set ablaze in Delta

    The Police Command in Delta has confirmed the alleged jungle justice meted on two kidnap suspects in the State.

    The spokesman of the command, SP Bright Edafe gave the confirmation on Thursday in a terse WhatsApp message.

    “It is confirmed,” Edafe simply said.

    Eyewitness said that the incident occured on Thursday at Mosogar Community in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta.

    The source said that the deceased suspects with two of their accomplices now at large attempted to abduct a female victim in Mosogar.

    “The victim raised alarm which attracted passers-by who chased and apprehended two of the suspects. The suspects were beaten to stupor before they were set ablaze,” the source said.

  • Delta EXCO approves N275bn worth of projects [SEE FULL LIST]

    Delta EXCO approves N275bn worth of projects [SEE FULL LIST]

    The Delta State Executive Council at its maiden meeting for 2025 on Thursday approved projects worth over N270 billion, spread across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the SEC meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was held at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba.

    The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who briefed the press after the meeting, said the approvals were record-breaking, outstanding and deafening to critics.

    Flanked by his counterparts in Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Reuben Izeze; Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen; Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme; the Director-General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah; his counterpart in Warri Uvwie and environs, Prince Godwin Ejinyere, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, Mr Aniagwu said Governor Oborevwori was determined to ensure Deltans get value for every money spent on projects in the state.

    He said; “Not long ago, we informed you that Governor Oborevwori is not interested in joining issues with critics but will be responding to them with projects.

    “But little did we know that his response is going to be so outstanding and deafening that even those who have some audio challenge will hear the sound.

    “Today, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led us to make history since the 34 years existence of Delta State where, in one Exco meeting over N275 billion worth of projects were approved for the good people of Delta cutting across the three senatorial districts.

    “These projects span different sectors targeted at giving value to our people; improving connectivity by way of roads, advancing their health by way of efforts in the health sector and, of course, urban renewal by making our cities much more liveable.

    “Virtually all the projects we approved today are coming with 40 per cent mobilisation without our government having to go and borrow, and that tells you how solvent we are as a state, thanks to the very accountable and transparent governance philosophy of Governor Oborevwori.”

    He said the Exco also approved the remodelling of the Warri City Stadium, describing it as a bold step to ensure that legacy projects were not in short supply in the state.

    He listed the approved projects to include construction of Uruagbesa Oria-Abraka Road, phase 1; construction of Egodo-Ogbeinbene Road, and the construction of Faculty B at the Southern Delta University, Orerokpe campus.

    Others are the construction of Amai-Aragba road; construction of Inam-Abbi access road; construction of internal roads at Ugbolu Hilltop Government layout (Phase 1); the construction of Umuoshimi Road with spurs to Ogbe-Aku and market road in Onicha-Ugbo; the construction of Okerenkoko – Pepeama – Kokodiagbene road with a spur to Teiteipur in Warri South-West, and the construction of Benikrukru Township Roads (Phase II).

    Also approved are the rehabilitation of Bomadi-Gbaregolor road, the construction of Okwetolor – Okobia – Aragba Road; the construction of Ogbe-Isogban Road in Abavo; Owa-Ewere Road in Owa-Oyibu; approval for upward review of Ayakoromo bridge; the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Okpanam Road from Post Office Junction to Catholic Church Roundabout to Okpanam Bypass Junction.

    Equally approved are the construction of Iwride-Iyede internal roads (Phase 1); the construction of Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja Road phase 2, and the construction of Okwighele – Amuokpokpor Road, among others.

    Aniagwu said the Exco approved the presentation of staff of office to Obi Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area, the appointment of Obi Ben Azubuike Kanegede as the Ogene of Ibedeni in Ndokwa East; the appointment of Augustine Nzemeke Ezeaguna III, Obi of Egbudu-Aka Kingdom and the approval of Olodu as an autonomous community in Aniocha South Local Government Area.

    The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, commended Governor Oborevwori for the massive provision of 40 per cent mobilisation for all the approved projects.

    He stated that no government in the state had shown more commitment to the sustained funding of projects than the Oborevwori administration.

    Izeze added that Governor Oborevwori had cleared outstanding certificates owed contractors, including N8bn previously owed on the Trans-Warri Road and bridges, as well as putting the project on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order, ISPO module.

    He said additional storm drainage work was approved to take care of Koka Junction and Achalla-Ibusa area, in addition to what CCECC was doing around Winners’ Chapel on Ibusa Road.

    Izeze disclosed that Exco also approved the upward review of Ayakoromo bridge with provision for ISPO, adding that review of the design of cloverleaf on Effurun Roundabout to ensure property owners around the area were not encumbered was also approved.

    On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, said Exco approved N1.6bn for the Contributory Health Scheme and a monthly release of N100m to ensure sustainability of the health coverage for Deltans.

    He said Exco equally approved the establishment of a Specialist Hospital at Osubi with Public Laboratory and Psychiatric Clinic; total rehabilitation of General Hospital, Expan, and the completion of Library Building at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, to ensure an increase in admission intake for the university.

  • Gov Oborevwori orders MDAs to fast track process of awarding contracts

    Gov Oborevwori orders MDAs to fast track process of awarding contracts

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has advised Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the State government to fast track the process of awarding contracts.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Oborevwori gave the advice on Thursday in his opening remarks at the maiden State Executive Council meeting for 2025.

    Speaking at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba, where the meeting was held, Oborevwori said his administration was poised to deliver life-changing projects for the people ahead of his second year anniversary.

    He said his administration had lined up humongous projects across the three senatorial districts and urged the MDAs to fast track the process of awarding the projects in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.

    “Today is the first Exco meeting of the state this year and we are happy to make use of this dry season to achieve a lot in our infrastructure drive.

    “Today, Deltans will know that my administration is ready to do more for them. There are a lot we hope to achieve with today’s Exco meeting because it promises to be the best Exco meeting since our administration started.

    “We are touching all the Senatorial districts and all local government areas have been carried along with the huge amounts we are spending this period.

    “Deltans will be very happy and that is what we want. We are doing this in line with our MORE Agenda because we have promised Deltans that we are going to advance the state through the MORE Agenda and that is what we are doing.

    “We are doing it so that the people will be happy and I want to advise the Ministries, Departments and Agencies to make sure they fast track the process of awarding these contracts.

    “We are already in February; we just have a few months until the rainy season and I believe that we will have a lot of projects for inauguration during our second year anniversary in office,” Governor Oborevwori said.