Tag: Sheriff Oborevwori

May 29: Nwanze chairs Oborevwori’s transition committee; Eghagha secretary
Delta State Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has appointed Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze to chair his transition committee with Prof. Hope Eghagha as Secretary of the committee.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the committee will interface with the outgoing government to ensure a smooth transition of power ahead of the May 29 swearing-in of the new Governor.

Prof. Nwanze was Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) and twice a fellow of the Swedish International Seminars in Physics and Chemistry.

Nwanze served in the eight-member Project Management Committee that realized the three new universities’ dream of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration.

The Oborevwori’s transition committee is made up of technocrats, serving and retired public office holders, professionals and experts from all walks of life.

The committee is expected to develop a clear framework of liaison and establish a clear channel of formal communication with the outgoing administration for a smooth transition.

Prof Eghagha of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), who was a Commissioner for Higher Education in the State, will serve as the Secretary of the Oborevwori’s transition committee.

The 88-man transition committee has Dr Kingsley Emu, Dr Barry Gbe, Chief Sunday Onoriode, Chief Tilije Fidelis, Mr Ifeanyi Egwunyenga, Mr Johnbul Edema, Hon Samuel Mariere, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogu, Engr Goodnews Agbi and Mr Abel Esievo as members.

Other members of the committee are Mr Darlington Ijeh, Prince Kelly Penawou, Mrs Cordelia Anyangu, Hon Joan Adanioma, Hon Pally Eghovie, Hon Shola Daibo, Mrs Georgina Eva, Mrs Christabel Obiuwevbi, Philomena Ededey and Mrs. Shimitte Bello.

TNG reports the committee would be inaugurated at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba by 12 noon on May 2.

See full list of the 88-man transition committee below:
1. PROF. EMMANUEL NWANZE – CHAIRMAN
2. DR KINGSLEY EMU
3. DR BARRY GBE
4. CHIEF SUNDAY ONORIODE
5. CHIEF TILIJE FIDELIS
6. MR IFEANYI EGWUNYENGA
7. MR JOHNBUL EDEMA
8. HON SAMUEL MARIERE
9. DR KINGSLEY ASHIBUOGU
10. ENGR GOODNEWS AGBI
11. MR ABEL ESIEVO
12. MR DARLINGTON IJEH
13. PRINCE KELLY PENAWOU
14. MRS CORDELIA ANYANGU
15. HON JOAN ADANIOMA
16. HON PALLY EGHOVIE
17. HON SHOLA DAIBO
18. MRS GEORGINA EVA
19. MRS CHRISTABEL OBIUWEVBI
20. PHILOMENA EDEDEY
21. MRS. SHIMITTE BELLO
22. MRS. EVELYN ALUTA
23. MRS. ROSELINE AMIOKU
24. HON. JOHN NANI
25. MR. MOFE PIRAH
26. BARR. GEORGE OROGUN
27. MR. IKECHUKWU MADUEMEZUE ESQ
28. MR. OVIE EMUAKPOR
29. HON. GODKNOWS ANGELE
30. HON. PEREZ OMUON
31. MR. EZEKIEL OKOH
32. MR. GODSPOWER ENERHO
33. MR. ISAAC WEYINMI AGBATEYINIRO
34. MR. DONALD PETERSON
35. MR. EUGENE UZUM
36. MR. ISIOMA OKONTA
37. MR. ODINIGWE DANIEL ODIGIE
38. MR. EMMANUEL EYAKAGBA
39. HON. ONORIODE AGOFURE
40. MR. AUGUSTINE OGEDEGBE
41. RT. HON. (BARR.) BASIL GANAGANA
42. HON. JOHNSON ERIJO
43. CHIEF ALLISON OGIDIGBEN
44. CHIEF FAVOUR IZOUKUMOR
45. OLORI ATUWATSE III
46. MISS ORODE UDUAGHAN
47. REV. JUSTIN C. OKOROJI
48. ERARAWEWHO JUNIOR UYERO
49. OKODOZOR UKUBOKEYE
50. CHRISTIAN ONOGBA
51. MR. KENNEDY UZOKA
52. AUSTINE AYEMIDEJOR
53. JOHN MUTU
54. PROF. IKOMI ROBERT
55. HON. PASCAL ADIGWE
56. RT. HON. EMMANUEL OKORO
57. JOHN ASHIMA
58. APOSTLE DR. OKONYE CYRIL IFECHUKWUDE
59. REV. GIDEON OGHENERUEMU OYIBO
60. HON. SOLOMON IGHRAKPATA
61. HON. (CHIEF) FERGUSON ONWO
62. HON. ENGR. EMEKA NWAOBI, FNSE
63. BARR. MRS. LYNA ALIYA OCHOLOR
64. COMR. GOODLUCK OFOBRUKU
65. COMR. OSANAKPA AUGUSTINE
66. AMB. CAROLINE OROBOSA USIKPEDO
67. SONNY EKEDAYE
68. BARR. CHRIS IFEANYI OSAKWE
69. BARR. POSSIBLE SOLOMON AJEDE
70. EFE TOBOR JOSIAH
71. EZE HENRY EKENE
72. EMEKA UMERAH BIDOKWU
73. PROF. FESTUS ARUNAYE
74. BARR. STELLA ANETOR
75. HON. PRINCESS PAT. AJUDUA (Ph.D.)
76. HON. ANTHONY ELEKEOKWURI
77. RT. HON. FESTUS AGAS
78. DR. AKPOVETA ISAAC
79. HON. EMMANUEL IGHOMENA
80. HON. BEN IGBAKPA
81. MIDENO BAYAGBON
82. BARR. ANDREW ORUGBO
83. SEN. EMMANUEL AGUARIAVWODO
84. REV. FR. CHRISTOPHER EKABOR
85. BARR. VAL ARENYEKA
86. DR. MICHAEL IFEANYI OSUOZA
87. CHIEF OWIN ERIRHOMURU
88. PROF. HOPE EGHAGHA – SECRETARY
April 28, 2023
EXCLUSIVE: Delta Gov-elect, Oborevwori inaugurates 88-man transition committee May 2 [SEE FULL LIST]
Ahead of the May 29 handover, the Delta State Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has constituted an 88-man transition committee set to be inaugurated on May 2.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports this is contained in a statement on Friday in Delta personally signed by the Delta State Governor-elect.

According to the statement, the 88-man transition committee would be chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze with Prof. Hope Eghagha as Secretary.

Members of the committee include Dr Kingsley Emu, Dr Barry Gbe, Chief Sunday Onoriode, Chief Tilije Fidelis, Mr Ifeanyi Egwunyenga, Mr Johnbul Edema, Hon Samuel Mariere, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogu, Engr Goodnews Agbi and Mr Abel Esievo.

Others are Mr Darlington Ijeh, Prince Kelly Penawou, Mrs Cordelia Anyangu, Hon Joan Adanioma, Hon Pally Eghovie, Hon Shola Daibo, Mrs Georgina Eva, Mrs Christabel Obiuwevbi, Philomena Ededey and Mrs. Shimitte Bello.

TNG reports members of the committee, which full list is attached below, would be Inaugurated at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba by 12 noon.

The committee will interface with the outgoing government to ensure a smooth transition of power ahead of the May 29 swearing-in of the new Governor.

See full list of the 88-man transition committee below:
1. PROF. EMMANUEL NWANZE – CHAIRMAN
2. DR KINGSLEY EMU
3. DR BARRY GBE
4. CHIEF SUNDAY ONORIODE
5. CHIEF TILIJE FIDELIS
6. MR IFEANYI EGWUNYENGA
7. MR JOHNBUL EDEMA
8. HON SAMUEL MARIERE
9. DR KINGSLEY ASHIBUOGU
10. ENGR GOODNEWS AGBI
11. MR ABEL ESIEVO
12. MR DARLINGTON IJEH
13. PRINCE KELLY PENAWOU
14. MRS CORDELIA ANYANGU
15. HON JOAN ADANIOMA
16. HON PALLY EGHOVIE
17. HON SHOLA DAIBO
18. MRS GEORGINA EVA
19. MRS CHRISTABEL OBIUWEVBI
20. PHILOMENA EDEDEY
21. MRS. SHIMITTE BELLO
22. MRS. EVELYN ALUTA
23. MRS. ROSELINE AMIOKU
24. HON. JOHN NANI
25. MR. MOFE PIRAH
26. BARR. GEORGE OROGUN
27. MR. IKECHUKWU MADUEMEZUE ESQ
28. MR. OVIE EMUAKPOR
29. HON. GODKNOWS ANGELE
30. HON. PEREZ OMUON
31. MR. EZEKIEL OKOH
32. MR. GODSPOWER ENERHO
33. MR. ISAAC WEYINMI AGBATEYINIRO
34. MR. DONALD PETERSON
35. MR. EUGENE UZUM
36. MR. ISIOMA OKONTA
37. MR. ODINIGWE DANIEL ODIGIE
38. MR. EMMANUEL EYAKAGBA
39. HON. ONORIODE AGOFURE
40. MR. AUGUSTINE OGEDEGBE
41. RT. HON. (BARR.) BASIL GANAGANA
42. HON. JOHNSON ERIJO
43. CHIEF ALLISON OGIDIGBEN
44. CHIEF FAVOUR IZOUKUMOR
45. OLORI ATUWATSE III
46. MISS ORODE UDUAGHAN
47. REV. JUSTIN C. OKOROJI
48. ERARAWEWHO JUNIOR UYERO
49. OKODOZOR UKUBOKEYE
50. CHRISTIAN ONOGBA
51. MR. KENNEDY UZOKA
52. AUSTINE AYEMIDEJOR
53. JOHN MUTU
54. PROF. IKOMI ROBERT
55. HON. PASCAL ADIGWE
56. RT. HON. EMMANUEL OKORO
57. JOHN ASHIMA
58. APOSTLE DR. OKONYE CYRIL IFECHUKWUDE
59. REV. GIDEON OGHENERUEMU OYIBO
60. HON. SOLOMON IGHRAKPATA
61. HON. (CHIEF) FERGUSON ONWO
62. HON. ENGR. EMEKA NWAOBI, FNSE
63. BARR. MRS. LYNA ALIYA OCHOLOR
64. COMR. GOODLUCK OFOBRUKU
65. COMR. OSANAKPA AUGUSTINE
66. AMB. CAROLINE OROBOSA USIKPEDO
67. SONNY EKEDAYE
68. BARR. CHRIS IFEANYI OSAKWE
69. BARR. POSSIBLE SOLOMON AJEDE
70. EFE TOBOR JOSIAH
71. EZE HENRY EKENE
72. EMEKA UMERAH BIDOKWU
73. PROF. FESTUS ARUNAYE
74. BARR. STELLA ANETOR
75. HON. PRINCESS PAT. AJUDUA (Ph.D.)
76. HON. ANTHONY ELEKEOKWURI
77. RT. HON. FESTUS AGAS
78. DR. AKPOVETA ISAAC
79. HON. EMMANUEL IGHOMENA
80. HON. BEN IGBAKPA
81. MIDENO BAYAGBON
82. BARR. ANDREW ORUGBO
83. SEN. EMMANUEL AGUARIAVWODO
84. REV. FR. CHRISTOPHER EKABOR
85. BARR. VAL ARENYEKA
86. DR. MICHAEL IFEANYI OSUOZA
87. CHIEF OWIN ERIRHOMURU
88. PROF. HOPE EGHAGHA – SECRETARY
April 28, 2023
Gov Okowa’s 36-year-old aide bags PhD in Finance

…hails Okowa, Oborevwori for moral support

Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Students Affairs, Okoh Ezekiel Oghenetega has bagged a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Finance, with specialty in International Finance, from the prestigious Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.

Oghenetega was awarded the Doctorate degree after a successful defence of his academic thesis in the School of Postgraduate Studies of the Delta State University, Abraka.

The Senate of the academic institution after reviewing his academic thesis, sound academic background and work experience approved the award of the higher degree.

The scholar whose thesis was centred on “Effects of Economic Stabilization Policies on Economic Depression in Nigeria” attained the academic pinnacle in the Department of Finance, having earlier bagged a Master’s Degree (M.Sc) in Finance from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Dr Oghenetega in his thesis defence highlighted how certain factors, including exchange rates, lending rates, government expenditures, inflation rate, import rate and export rate, affect key policies that can stabilize the economy of a country.

The finance expert laid focus on fiscal policies, monetary policies and trade policies.

The degree award will see Dr Oghenetega adding the prestigious PhD to his high-profile educational qualifications.

The Okowa’s aide also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Banking and Finance, and National Certificate of Education in Business Education.

The industrious son of Ughelli South local government council is a member of various professional bodies and holds the portfolio of Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Students Affairs; a position he has gloriously flourished in and used to impart the lives of youths and students of Delta State positively.

In a remark after his thesis defence, Dr Oghenetega, thanked Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for supporting him throughout his scholarly journey.

He disclosed Governor Okowa has invested in his welfare and progress in life, while appreciating the Governor for making him a part of his government as an aide on Students Affairs which made him got closer to Students and Youths of Delta State, helping him sustain a positive atmosphere to harness the opportunity for attaining his Doctorate Degree.

Similarly, Oghenetega appreciated the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly who is the Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for providing him with moral support throughout the program.

He recounted how the Governor-elect always spoke with him to check on his progress and encouraged him to remain focused.

Furthermore, he praised the noble contribution of distinguished Deltans who have contributed to his journey in one way or another, while especially appreciating Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Hon. Rueben Izeze, Hon. Dr. Jude Sinebe, Barr. George Orogun, Prof. Hilary Owamah, Comr Michael Akpobire, amongst others.

Dr. Oghenetega also acknowledged the support and guidance of his family, most especially his lovely wife, Mrs. Okoh Franca; his best friend turn brother, Mr. Okeoghene Anthony; his thesis supervisors, tutors, mentors and others for their invaluable support during the study.

April 26, 2023
Okpe Union, UK hails Gov Okowa over support for Oborevwori

The Okpe Union branch in the United Kingdom (UK) has rained praises on Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his overwhelming support for their kinsman, Governor-elect Sheriff Oborevwori.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Okpe Union UK hailed Governor Okowa for his support for Oborevwori before and during the 2023 general elections.

In an appreciation letter to Okowa, the Union wrote: “Your Excellency, the emergence of Rt. Hon. Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, as Governor-Elect, was a great honour done to Okpe Kingdom.

“We are indeed very grateful and appreciative. God made it possible through you”.

The appreciation letter was endorsed by Okakuro Godwin Ogholo – President, Mrs. Shirley Okechukwu – Vice President, Mr. John Ewhubare Siakpere (JP) – Publicity Secretary, Mr. Eghele Sylvester Atughwe – Secretary General, Mrs. Florence Avwunu- Treasurer, Dr. Richard Stephens- Assistant Secretary General and Okakuro Peter Enye – The Togbaturi of Okpe Kingdom.

According to them; “For us in Okpe Kingdom of Delta State, the emergence of our Son and Brother, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori as Delta State Governor in the March 18th , 2023, all we can see and talk about is God’s Glory, and we give God and your esteemed self all the glory. It is heartwarming to note the faith, confidence and hope you reposed in our kinsman as your worthy successor”.

“Okpe Union, United Kingdom, wishes to state in the strongest possible terms that our kinsman will not let you and Deltans down. He will reciprocate this gesture by making huge sacrifices and work harder to consolidate on the gains already recorded under the SMART AGENDA of your administration by his faithful implementation of his MORE AGENDA”, they added.

They also said that; “Your Excellency, the support you gave to Okpe quest for governorship of our dear state means so much to us. Governor Okowa, we say thank you, thank you and thank you”.

April 25, 2023
Delta Gov-elect, Oborevwori preaches peaceful co-existence, hope at Eid-El-Fitr

Delta State’s Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has felicitated with Muslims across the country as they celebrate Eid-El-Fitr 2023.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Oborevwori, who is the incumbent Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, urged Muslims to rededicate themselves to the teachings of Prophet Mohammad.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Dennis Otu, the Delta State Governor-elect, who is also the National Deputy Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, stressed the need for inter-religious harmony in Nigeria.

Part of the statement reads: “As Muslims globally celebrate Eid Mubarak, I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to continue to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of Nigeria.

“I believe that no matter our faith, religion should be more than a badge of identity; it should also serve as a vehicle to contribute to the socio-economic advancement of our country”.

Rt Hon Oborevwori prayed that the bonds of friendship, service, and commitment to the unity and peaceful co-existence of Nigeria will be renewed and strengthened in this season.

He encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the future of Nigeria, notwithstanding the current economic and security challenges.

April 21, 2023
EXCLUSIVE: Omo-Agege’s brother speaks with TheNewsGuru.com, says DSP not Igbe Worshipper

Dr Victor Omo-Agege, an Igbe Onori, and brother to Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, who is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2023 governorship election in Delta State holds no bar in this explosive interview with TheNewsGuru.com (TNG).

Recall that in run-up to the March 18th governorship election, DSP Omo-Agege was widely rumoured to be a revered member of the Igbe religious group, described to be a cult-like family religion of marine spirit worshippers in Delta.

To make matters worse for the Deputy Senate President, videos went viral, prior to the election, on social media of some Igbe group members, some praying for Senator Omo-Agege, while others were taunting Christians in the State that Igbe worshippers will take over the Christian Chapel in the Government House, Asaba.

However, Dr Omo-Agege, who declared himself as a proud anointed Igbe Onori, denied the DSP is an Igbe Worshipper, stressing that Omo-Agege, who lost the 2023 governorship election in Delta to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has always been a staunch Catholic.

He, meanwhile, added that insinuations that Igbe worshippers will take over the Chapel in the Government House if Omo-Agege was elected Governor is not in line with tenets of the Igbe religion.

“The DSP is a staunch Catholic. There are 1,001 pictures of him in churches before he became a political figure out there. I attended his wedding in a Catholic Church. Quote me: “he is not and has never been an Igbe member”,” Dr Omo-Agege told TNG.

In the interview with TNG reproduced below, the Nigerian-American dissected the Igbe religion and bursted some myths about the Igbe religion. He also lambasted the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State and likened DSP Omo-Agege to former U.S. President Barack Obama, who he said was persecuted for his religious leaning.

Read excerpt from the interview of Dr Victor Omo-Agege with TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) below:

Let’s meet you. Please, introduce yourself

First and foremost, thanks for the opportunity to discuss and clarify some misinformation about Igbe and the Omo-Agege family. I am Dr. Victor Omo-Agege, a US Navy Veteran currently a Federal Project Director with the United States Department of Energy. I reside in Washington State.

Your family is reputedly the founder of the Igbe religious group of which you are a senior member. What exactly is the Igbe group to the uninitiated? What does your title mean and how do you function?

There is a lot of misconception and misinformation out there about the Igbe religion, and a major one is my family, i.e., the Omo-Agege family is the founder of the Igbe religion. I have to say, in capital letters, that is simply false. Igbe was founded in Kokori by Prophet Ubiesha Etarakpo. It was the first religion of its time to preach the belief in One God in the Niger Delta. To become an Igbe member, all you have to do is to accept there is only one God and no intermediary. Then you have to destroy all idols in your possession. Igbe is the name of the religion, but you don’t worship Igbe. You worship God. Like you don’t worship the church or Islam.

“Another misconception is that Igbe is a religious cult of folks who worship a Marine Spirit. The Marine spirit is not and never was part of Prophet Ubiesha’s doctrine. Some people practise this, and out of ignorance, people call them Igbe; they are the Igbe-Rame meaning the Water Worshippers. We are Igbe or Igbe-Orhe. We don’t worship any idols but God directly. You can leave anytime you like, and there are no sanctions or punishment. Igbe is a way of life that emphasizes the moral obligations of doing right and doing no harm to your fellow human being”.

I happened to have been blessed by having parents who were free thinkers and believed religion is a choice between an individual and his God. I have in my life studied a lot of religions. My brother, Azania and I were mass servers in the Catholic church during our teens. I have prayed with Muslims and knocked door to door with Jehovah’s Witnesses. I prefer to classify myself as a spiritual person instead of a religious person. I believe in one God, the belief to love my neighbour as myself and wish for the next man what you wish for yourself. I am an Onori. The Onori serves as a leader and counsellor to the Uku, the head of his branch or Ogwa.

How do you marry your serious academic background with being a senior member of the Igbe group?

I won’t classify myself as a senior member of the Igbe religion. I am a servant of my people, ready to serve when called upon. We are all equal in the eyes of God.

“Having the last name, Omo-Agege comes with expectations. My parents expected us to be the best we could be” – Dr Victor Omo-Agege.

My sisters and brothers were very ambitious and accomplished. Frankly, I had no choice if I wanted to come home to the dinner table. We are a family where you have to hold your own intellectually at the dinner table. God blessed me with the opportunities and strength to complete my educational goals.

As a brother to the DSP, there is the general belief that he too is a senior member of the Igbe group while also being a Catholic. Is it true; if not, why?

The belief is political propaganda originating from the PDP camp. The DSP is a staunch Catholic. There are 1,001 pictures of him in churches before he became a political figure out there. I attended his wedding in a catholic church.

“Quote me. “He Senator [Ovie Omo-Agege] is not and has never been an Igbe member” – Dr Victor Omo-Agege.

You are fully aware the DSP at one time was a member of the PDP in Delta state and served as the SSG. Why did they never have a problem with him being an Igbe member, then? Pure political propaganda. Don’t forget they also accused Barack Obama of being a Muslim. It’s just gutter politics.

Did you see the videos done by some Igbe group members, some praying for him, others taunting the Christians that the Igbe group will take over the Christian Chapel in the Government House, Asaba?

No, I did not. If you have a copy, please send it to me, and I will get to the bottom of it.

“Igbe members, like any other religious group, can pray for anyone. We all need prayers. Insinuating they will take over the Chapel in the Government House is not in line with the Igbe tenet to not harm your fellow man” – Dr Victor Omo-Agege.

As I know him, my brother will ensure the State House welcomes all Deltans and their religious freedom enshrined in our Constitution.

In your considered opinion, how did you rate the chances of DSP Omo-Agege at the just concluded governorship elections?

In a free and fair environment, The DSP won hands down.

Did you play any role in his attempt to win the governorship seat? Are you also an APC member?

No, I am not an APC, PDP, or Labor Party member. I am tired of seeing the people of Delta State suffering. I believe in the DSP’s integrity, vision, and capabilities to make drastic changes in the state as he did in his senatorial district.

As a Nigerian-American, like your brother, are you satisfied with the way politics is played and elections are conducted in Nigeria? What can we do differently? How do we get it right?

Clever question. Yes, I am Nigerian American, but my brother, the DSP is Nigerian Nigerian. My brother went to St George’s Obinomba and Uniben. Trust me; he is solely committed to uplifting the state of the Nigerian people.

What do you think of the Obidient movement which swept through the country in the last one year?

Great. It was nice to see the youth galvanized.

How do we get our politics right and Nigeria put on a proper pedestal to economic and political development?

Nigeria is a complicated country. Ethnic and religious sentiments easily divide us. This will be an excellent question for the DSP. He has lived in that arena for the last 20 years. I don’t want to give you a canned bubble gum answer. I can only say Nigeria is a failed state, and change is needed and needed now.

April 17, 2023
Delta guber: Gbagi asks tribunal to disqualify Oborevwori, Omo-Agege, others

Chief Kenneth Gbagi, Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Delta, has appealed to the election petition tribunal in Asaba to disqualify the Governor-elect, Sheriff Oborevwori over alleged forgery.

He also sought the disqualification of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Ovie Omo-Agege; Labour Party Candidate (LP) Ken Pela; the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate Mr Great Ogboru, on the ground of violation of the 2022 Electoral Act.

Gbagi, a former Minister of Education, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.

The SDP candidate in the March 18 governorship election, had filed a 79-page petition against the governor-elect and the other frontline candidates, seeking for their disqualification .

Gbagi in a certified true copy petition with No.WPT/DL/GOV/2023 to the tribunal, alleged that the candidates, in their attempts to meet the constitutional requirements of eligibility for 2023 governorship election, presented forged documents while filling the INEC forms.

He said the forged documents included multiple sworn statutory declaration of age and affidavits, inconsistency of names of some of the candidates, perjurious swearing of affidavits.

Other electoral infraction alleged to be committed by the candidates also included lieying under oath, claims of possessing and non possession of various academic qualifications and alleged financial impropriety by one of the candidates, among other infractions.

He also hinged his call for their disqualification on the alleged degrees of electoral malpractice at the march 18 poll in Delta.

He listed the alleged malpractice to include over voting, vote buying induced by the candidates.

He said there were situations where the total number of votes recorded and allotted were more than the Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) collected by voters that exceeded the number of registered voters in the polling unit.

Other alleged infractions, according to him , included alteration of some results sheets which did not reflect on the duplicate copies given to party agents, mutilation of form EC8As, polling units without corresponding voting points result sheets, over and under balloting, among others.

”I am a candidate, and I am saying, we are candidates of these election, but this people who are candidates ought not to be candidate and the tribunal is the appropriate place.”

The SDP candidate, consequently in the petition, urged the tribunal to declare non and void and of no effect, the Certificate of Return issued by INEC to the candidate of PDP as the winner of the governorship election in Delta State.

He further urged the tribunal to withdraw the Certificate of Return and issue a fresh certificate to him as duly qualified and elected governor.

“For those of us, who contested and particapated, I am the only one on the list that is qualified.

“The election has been held, marks were allocated to us, my prayer is that they were not qualified, and I should be declared as the winner of the election because I am the only qualified candidate in the first instance,”he said.

He said it was the right time to bring up the matter as records and experience showed that pre election cases most times do not go far.

“Go back to the Electoral Act, I could not have raised an objection on issue of a candidate of a party that I am not a member.

”Every one who went to pre-election matter, none of them went any where, this is the appropriate time, to raise this issue,” he said

Meanwhile, effort to get reaction of the Chief Press Secretary to the Delta Governor -elect, Mr Dennis Otu, was unsuccessful as he didn’t respond to the WhatsApp message request for his reaction.

April 11, 2023
I will not contest 2027 governorship election – Ogboru

The Governorship candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Delta State for the 2023 elections, Great Ovedje Ogboru has disclosed he will not contest the 2027 governorship election.

Ogboru who made this known on Monday while addressing newsmen in his country home at Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state said the 2023 Governorship Election was marred with irregularities.

Speaking during his 65th birthday anniversary, the APGA candidate in the March 18, 2023, governorship election in Delta State said his birthday celebration is to give thanks to God Almighty for his blessings and protection to him and his family.

Ogboru thanked all AGPA members and his teeming supporters for their support during the 2023 Governorship election.

He also commended APGA candidates for various positions in the just concluded 2023 general elections but decried voters’ intimidation, violence, vote buying and other election irregularities during the general elections.

Ogboru said it was worrisome and unthinkable for the youths to willingly sell their votes, noting that they have enslaved themselves and have no right to condemn the next administration if they are not satisfied with the governance.

He congratulated the Delta State Governor-elect, Hon. Sheriff Oborewori and urged Deltans to give him the needed support for him to succeed during his tenure.

Ogboru disclosed that he would not contest the 2027 Governorship election and thanked his supporters, especially those that have been with him politically for over 2 decades.

Responding to why he visited Sheriff Oborevwori after the Governorship election, Chief Great Ogboru revealed that he decided to support the Governor-elect because of his humility and respect for constituted authorities.

Ogboru stated that his former party APC was hijacked hence he decided to contest the 2023 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.

April 11, 2023
Easter: Oborevwori calls for sacrifices, urges Nigerians not to Despair

The Delta State Governor-Elect and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has called on Nigerians to make sacrifices for one another, urging them not to despair, but keep hope alive.

In his Easter message to Nigerians contained in a Press Statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Dennis Otu, the Governor-elect noted that Jesus Christ, the reason for the celebration, made sacrifices to humanity and implored Nigerians to emulate His selfless virtue in order to have a great nation.

According to the Statement; ” Our nation is passing through enormous challenges at the moment, but we should not despair. We must make sacrifices for one another and for the love of our beloved country and the people. There is light at the end of the tunnel and so let us keep hope alive.

“As we celebrate this year’s Easter, let us be reassured that Almighty God can turn a bad situation around for good. Easter is all about renewed hope and faith in God for a better tomorrow. Let us continue to believe and be confident that there are better days ahead by the special grace of God. May the spirit of revival and renewal guide all of us”.

“Easter is a time to come together and celebrate new beginnings. Today, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus and give thanks for what He brought to our world and so with renewed hope and faith, our nation will be great again. May God shower us with blessings, love, and peace this Easter.

“This is wishing all our Christian brothers and sisters a joyous and exciting Easter. May we be surrounded by spirituality, inspiration and love. May Jesus bless us with opportunities to serve and make all Nigerians happy. Happy Easter to all of us”, the statement added.

The Governor-elect affirmed that Easter is the triumph of light over darkness and used the opportunity offered by the Easter celebration to extend a hand of fellowship to everyone, especially those who contested with him, saying that as a state; “We have had an election that has produced the next set of leaders. Winners have emerged. While I congratulate all those who won, I am imploring those who did not win to join hands together with the winners to build our State”.

April 8, 2023
No ethnic nationality will be neglected in my administration – Oborevwori

Delta State Governor elect, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has said that no ethnic nationality in the state will be neglected by his administration.

The Governor elect who is the Speaker of the State Assembly stated this when he played host to the leadership of Delta State Traditional Ruler Council led by its Chairman and Orodje of Okpe kingdom, retired General Felix Mujakperuo, Orhue I at his official residence in Asaba, the state capital.

Rt Hon Oborevwori who was full of gratitude on the visit of the traditional rulers and their prayers, said the governorship battle was tough but the support of Deltans was organic.

Expressing gratitude to the Traditional Rulers for believing in him and for pledging to support him to succeed in the task ahead, Rt.Hon Oborevwori said that he will be Governor for all Deltans.

The Speaker said he will listen more and do more for the state, stressing the need for the royal fathers to ensure peace in their kingdoms for good governance of the state.

He stated that no development can thrive in an atmosphere of unrest and rancor and appealed that the peace the out-going administration of Dr Ifeanyi Okowa had enjoyed be extended to him when he assume office come 29 May 2023.

He told the monarchs that his story is like that of David in the Bible, maintaining that as broad minded person he has learnt so much from Dr Okowa including humility.

The Governor elect promised that he will build the Delta State that all desire, stressing that no project would be abandoned during his administration.

Chairman Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, retired Major General Felix Mujakperuo, Orhue 1 , the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, said the traditional institution in the state know that the Speaker will do well as Governor.

He pledged that traditional rulers in the state will support his policies and programmes as Governor of Delta State, same support they gave to the government of Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, who he described as a perfect leader.

The immediate past Chairman of the Council and Obi of Owa kingdom, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor the second and first Vice Chairman of the Council, Luke Kalanama the eight, the Pere of Akugbene Mein Kingdom, said the Governor-elect has been part and parcel of the royal family and congratulated him for the victory at the poll.

Dr Efeizomor and Kalanama assured Rt Hon Oborevwori that the traditional institution will give him maximum support to deliver in his electioneering promises.

The Royal Fathers disclosed that the council was specific in their prayers for the best candidate to win the governorship election, stressing that he was the best judging from his record as the longest Speaker of the Delta State House Assembly.

They described Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as a child of grace and prayed that same grace be extended to the Governor-elect, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

The Second Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Council, Agbogidi Henry Kikachukwu, the Obi of Ubulu Unor Kingdom, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, Anthony Ogbogbo, Ibuka the first and King Obukowho Monday Whiskey, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, were part of the entourage that visited the Governor-elect who is also the National Deputy Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.

April 5, 2023