An All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Delta North, Chief Emmanuel Eboh has cautioned ex-local government chairman, Hon. Louis Ndukwe over a press statement where he declared that Senator Ned Nwoko would not return to the senate in 2027.
Reacting to the criticism of Nwoko’s stewardship, Chief Eboh dismissed it as baseless, ill-conceived and a far cry from reality.
The APC stalwart said Ndukwe overreached himself as an ordinary mortal who has no powers to fathom tomorrow. He warned that “the former council chairman cannot play God as the political future of Senator Nwoko was not in his hands”
The APC chieftain noted that “contrary to Ndukwe’s wild claims, Senator Nwoko has been exceptionally good in his legislative duties, having displayed exemplary advocacy and commitment to the well being of the people of Delta North.”
Chief Eboh stated that “Senator Nwoko’s effective representation has earned widespread admiration from the populace “ and emphasized that his constituents were generally happy and satisfied with him.
According to Eboh, “Distinguished Senator Nwoko exceeded the expectations of the people of Delta who gave him the mandate to represent them at Abuja. A senator’s primary role is to make laws. Nwoko ranks among the federal law makers with the highest number of bills and motions at the senate.
“Senator Nwoko is the pride of Delta North. He has gone beyond his core responsibilities attracting roads, solar lights and water in different communities. Over a thousand have been empowered with skill acquisition programmes the Senator initiated. Youths and women are direct beneficiaries. There are regular health schemes for the people.
“About a dozen youth leaders from across the 9 local government areas of Delta North are on their way to China for specialized vocational training. The Senator made it possible using his vast contacts. These are facts anyone can verify. Not empty talks.”
On Anioma state creation championed by Senator Nwoko, Chief Eboh said the Delta North lawmaker “deserves commendation, not meaningless futile attacks by Ndukwe.” He said the senator had endeared himself to the majority for upholding the identity and history of Anioma people.
“Senator Nwoko’s devotion to the Anioma cause is with the best of intent. He has continued to spend his personal resources, time and integrity. I am convinced that those who started the struggle over 70 years ago would be pleased with him.
“Many of them are no longer here. Men like Sir Dennis Osadebay, Senator Nosike Ikpo, Obi Professor Chike Edozien and so on. Nwoko is selflessly pursuing Anioma state for the present and future generations.
Chief Eboh also chided Ndukwe for “recklessly dabbling into Senator Nwoko’s marital issues” and admonished that “only a jobless person would not keep off private matters that are completely outside his household.”
The APC chieftain urged the people of Delta North to continue to support Senator Nwoko as he embodies their yearnings and aspirations.
The Office of Senator Ned Nwoko has issued a clarification following recent online discussions and what it described as misleading reports concerning the status of the Issele-Uku mini stadium project.
In a statement signed by Dr. Michael Nwoko, Chief of Staff to Senator Ned Nwoko, the office confirmed that the project is still under construction and has not yet been completed or officially handed over to the Delta State Sports Commission.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the project is still under construction and has not yet been completed or officially handed over to the Delta State Sports Commission. Some finishing work remains, particularly in the changing rooms and toilet facilities,” the statement read.
Dr. Nwoko emphasized that the mini stadium, which had been abandoned for many years, is the property of the Delta State Government.
He explained that Senator Nwoko’s team only worked on the specific section approved for use by the Delta State Sports Commission in the course of executing the project.
He further clarified that youths in Issele-Uku have been granted temporary access to the facility for daily sporting activities — an arrangement made “purely out of goodwill” and in the spirit of promoting community development and youth engagement.
“The gesture is to encourage sports and community spirit among young people while work on the facility continues,” Dr. Nwoko noted.
The Issele-Uku mini stadium project is one of several community-based initiatives supported by Senator Nwoko aimed at fostering youth development, sports participation, and infrastructure growth across Delta North Senatorial District.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta North Senatorial District has declared its full support for the creation of Anioma State, proposed to become the sixth state in Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone.
In a formal letter dated November 3, 2025, and addressed to the Chairman of the Senate Sub-committee on State Creation, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Delta North APC Zonal Chairman, Chief Adizue Eluaka, affirmed that Anioma is “ready for statehood.”
Chief Eluaka stated that the people of Delta North are united in backing the move, describing the demand for Anioma State as a matter of fairness, equity, and strategic balance within Nigeria’s federal structure.
“The APC Delta North Senatorial District is fully and unequivocally in support of the creation of Anioma State. The realization of Anioma State stands as both a matter of fairness and strategic advantage for the federation,” Eluaka wrote.
He emphasized that there was no dissenting voice within Delta North against the proposal, noting that it aligns with principles of equity and historical continuity.
Calling on the Senate to honour the legacy of Anioma leaders such as Chief Dennis Osadebey, Eluaka said the new state would strengthen unity, representation, and administrative balance in Nigeria.
He commended Senator Ned Nwoko for his leadership in sponsoring the Anioma State creation bill, which seeks to correct the imbalance where the South-East has only five states compared to six in other zones and seven in one.
Eluaka highlighted that Anioma’s proposal was the most comprehensive among all state creation requests before the National Assembly, giving the movement renewed national recognition.
Recalling the region’s historical experiences during the civil war, Eluaka said Anioma’s creation would heal old wounds and restore pride among its people.
He reaffirmed that Anioma was prepared for statehood, stressing that the move would boost the South-East’s political representation, landmass, and economic strength.
“The creation of Anioma as the sixth state of the South-East will strengthen Nigeria’s political stability and national unity. It is both an act of justice and a reaffirmation of the Senate’s responsiveness to the aspirations of the Nigerian people,” Eluaka noted.
A heated public debate has erupted following a video released by Rita Daniels, mother of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, in which she accused her in-law, Senator Ned Nwoko, of ingratitude and betrayal.
The video, which has since gone viral on social media, featured an emotional Rita Daniels alleging that her daughter, Regina, financially supported Ned Nwoko’s senatorial campaign with $50,000 and helped “revive his fallen star”.
She further insinuated that Senator Nwoko’s fame and political success were largely due to Regina’s influence and their family’s support.
Rita Daniels’ statement triggered a storm of online reactions, drawing in social commentators, political analysts, and social media influencers, who questioned the credibility of her claims.
Among the most prominent voices was controversial activist and commentator, VeryDarkMan (VDM), who dismissed her narrative as false and manipulative, arguing that Senator Nwoko had been an established figure long before his marriage to Regina Daniels, and describing him as a billionaire, lawyer, and politician of notable repute.
According to VDM, it was in fact Rita Daniels who sought out Ned Nwoko because of his wealth and influence, not the other way around, accusing her of materialism and claiming she prioritized financial gain over her daughter’s emotional well-being.
VDM added that the narrative portraying Nwoko as a man who depended on Regina for fame was both misleading and unfair. “If Ned was not a billionaire, you would never have gone close to him”, the controversial activist declared.
He further maintained that Ned genuinely loves Regina, and that their relationship should not be tainted by false narratives designed to portray him as a villain.
Several other commentators corroborated VDM’s view, providing historical and factual evidence of Ned Nwoko’s achievements long before his marriage to Regina Daniels.
Godfrey Chiadi listed Ned’s extensive career accomplishments, including his service as a member of the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003, his instrumental role in the Paris Club refund for Nigeria, and his credentials as a Barrister called to Bar at the Lincoln’s Inn in England and Wales.
Chiadi also highlighted Ned’s establishment of the Sports University, known to be the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring that these achievements made him a billionaire well before Regina came into his life.
Political figures such as Ossai Ovie Success and Hon. Felix Olodu also weighed in, condemning Rita Daniels’ claims as disrespectful and historically inaccurate.
Ossai stated that those who campaigned for Ned Nwoko’s senatorial victory knew that his win was not due to Regina’s celebrity status but through the support of the Delta North electorate and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Hon. Olodu echoed similar sentiments, asserting that Delta North voters supported the PDP as a party rather than any individual candidate, while reminding the public that Ned had been a billionaire and a House of Representatives member in 1999, when Regina Daniels was still a toddler.
Adding a more personal perspective, Ugaga Talks, who seemed to have insider knowledge, shared insider accounts of his time working with the Senator, revealing that the first encounter between Regina Daniels and Ned was when her mother brought her to apply for a scholarship from Ned’s Foundation.
Ugaga stated that before Ned came into their lives, the Daniels family lived in a modest rented apartment in Asaba. According to him, Ned’s generosity completely transformed their lives, as he extended financial assistance to the family on several occasions.
Ugaga further described Ned as a disciplined and humble man who abstains from alcohol, meat, and carbonated drinks, living a simple and principled lifestyle.
He disclosed that Ned had often intervened to help members of Regina’s family, including her younger brother, but became disillusioned when he felt his generosity was being abused.
Ugaga accused Rita Daniels of ingratitude, claiming that she had once benefited greatly from Ned’s political and financial support, including sponsorships during her time in the Actors Guild of Nigeria and within the PDP.
Public commentators such as Rich Kay and Dio Oghale Emeka Rex also criticized Rita Daniels’ assertions, calling them “falsehoods” and “a distortion of history”.
Rich Kay emphasized that Ned Nwoko had already made his mark in politics, law, and business before Regina was born, pointing out that the Senator owned one of the largest black-owned law firms in the United Kingdom, managed substantial loan recovery projects, and was financially capable of sponsoring high-profile events and political campaigns without external assistance.
Dio Oghale Emeka Rex reminded the public that Ned had previously sponsored Rita Daniels’ own political aspirations and helped elevate her within the entertainment and political spheres.
Several online commentators echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Ned’s prominence predated Regina’s acting career.
Tunde Ednut, a well-known social media influencer, expressed disbelief at the idea that a billionaire like Ned could be portrayed as dependent on Regina’s fame or finances.
Others, such as Igweh Okah Immaculate and Ogechi Cord, noted that Ned’s political career began at a time when Regina was still a child, reinforcing the implausibility of Rita’s claims.
Collectively, the reactions revealed a strong public consensus against Rita Daniels’ accusations as many Nigerians viewed her comments as a failed attempt to rewrite the history of her family’s relationship with Ned Nwoko.
The majority of public opinion and critics sided with Ned, portraying him as a man of integrity and accomplishment who has been unfairly vilified, arguing that Rita’s emotional outburst stemmed from personal grievances and possible fallout within the family, rather than objective truth.
Beyond the personal feud, the controversy also sparked broader conversations about feminism, materialism, and moral values in contemporary Nigerian society.
Some commentators, including VDM, criticized what they described as “selective feminism,” arguing that many Nigerians blindly support women in conflicts without critically evaluating the facts.
The debate also highlighted ongoing concerns about the intersection of wealth, power, and relationships in the entertainment industry, as well as the public tendency to conflate celebrity visibility with political credibility.
The controversy between Senator Ned Nwoko and Rita Daniels underscores the growing tension between public perception and factual history in Nigeria’s social media space, as well as the influence of third party interference on marital issues.
The evidence presented by multiple witnesses, political figures, and documented records overwhelmingly contradicts Rita Daniels’ claims.
It is clear that Ned Nwoko’s financial and political success long predates his marriage to Regina Daniels, and the incident has further exposed the power of misinformation, emotional manipulation, and celebrity influence in shaping public discourse, while reinforcing the importance of factual accuracy in public debates.
Overall, public sentiment remains heavily in favor of Senator Ned Nwoko, with the majority viewing Rita Daniels’ accusations as baseless, self-serving, and motivated by personal frustration rather than truth.
Saturday, November 8, 2025, is ‘Election Day’ in Anambra State, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that “all is set” for the governorship ballot in 5,718 of 5,720 polling units (two units are without registered voters), 326 wards in 21 local government areas, and 24,000 ad-hoc personnel to deploy statewide for a smooth conduct of the poll.
During a “readiness assessment visit” by a delegation from the INEC headquarters in Abuja, the National Commissioner supervising Anambra State, Dr. Kenneth Ikeagu, noted that as of Sunday, October 26, the commission had “achieved 99% operational preparedness” for the exercise, including:
• A mock accreditation on Saturday, October 25, to test the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which “performed optimally,” with “the process taking less than a minute per voter.”
• A Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed with transport unions and vehicle owners for timely and secure movement of election materials; and arrangement for boats to transport materials and personnel in riverine areas.
• Meetings with heads of security agencies, joined by officers from neighbouring states, who’ve pledged adequate personnel to reinforce security coverage across Anambra.
• Security agencies’ successful recovery and stabilisation of areas once threatened by insecurity, including Ihiala local government area, where “elections will take place in all polling units.”
• In case of persistent challenges, to have recourse to contingency arrangements, including the use of council area collation centres, to ensure that every eligible voter can cast their ballot.
As reported by Vanguard on Sunday, October 26, Ikeagu, praising the residents for their peaceful disposition ahead of the election, and urging registered voters to personally collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), as “collection by proxy is not allowed,” reminded them that “election is a shared responsibility,” and that every voter must take it seriously by collecting their PVCs.
With non-sensitive materials already deployed to INEC’s offices across the state, and sensitive materials scheduled for delivery 24 hours before the election, the INEC officials are expected, on poll day, to arrive at their polling units by 7:00 a.m. for the start of accreditation at 8:30 a.m.
Exuding confidence about INEC’s determination to deliver a seamless and credible franchise, Dr Ikeagu declared: “We came all the way from Abuja to conduct what is called a readiness assessment for the gubernatorial election. We held meetings with critical stakeholders, monitored the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards, and we are satisfied with the level of preparedness. We are ready for the election.”
Are the parties and their candidates also ready for the poll? Yes, they’re on paper, and on social media! But offline and on the ground, many aren’t prepared for the task aimed at unseating the incumbent and former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
So, six days to the poll, what do we see in the opposition camp? Engagement in rhetoric and bandying of allegations of how Soludo plans to rig himself in, thus preparing grounds to query the outcome of the poll they’re not likely to win due to inadequate preparation; poor mobilisation of voters; lack of the numbers against a dominant APGA in Anambra; paucity of funds for the campaigns; and lagging in alleged inducement of voters.
In a deeply religious state of majorly Catholic and Anglican faiths, Soludo’s cast his campaign as “a divine project” (other candidates claim no less), even as he leaves nothing to chance, rallying in all parts of Anambra, and boasting that his All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) platform targets “winning all 5,720 polling units” in the state.
For instance on October 27, the governor, taking his message of “continuity and development” to Ajalli in Orumba North and Umunze in Orumba South local government areas, told the residents that his return to the communities “feels like a homecoming” owing to their massive support for his first-term election, reports WazobiaReporters on Monday, October 27.
Soludo, who met with traditional leaders, community groups, and supporters, and described his campaign as a people-driven movement, with an “unprecedented level of community involvement and support for the APGA,” listed his government’s ongoing projects in Orumba, and pledged that the next four years “will focus on consolidating these gains and driving rapid development in every local government area.”
As a show of “strong support” for his re-election, the Orumba North and Orumba South communities donated N75m and N150m, respectively, to the governor’s campaign, and also vowed their determination to deliver victory for the APGA in Saturday’s poll.
Obviously engaging in and encouraging “vote-buying” – a tactic he employed during the August bye-elections in 16 states – Soludo pledged to reward the three wards with the highest votes for the APGA in Orumba South (and perhaps in Anambra’s 326 wards) in the election.
Soludo’s words as he spoke at Umunze: “When we were campaigning for the Senate (bye-election), we knew we were going to win every ward in the South senatorial zone, but we still had some incentives. Any ward that APGA won received N1m, and we won all the wards in Orumba South.
“We promise each of these wards N1m, and next week (after the poll), we will redeem it. The ward that comes first will get N5m, the second N3m and the third N2m. That was the deal! For November 8 (poll), any ward that wins again will receive N1m, while the first three performing wards will get N5m, N2m and N1m, respectively.”
Opposition parties and their candidates have repeatedly accused Soludo of plotting to game the process by “calling for,” and receiving millions of donations from individuals, groups, and local government officials.
The most vociferous lately is the African Democratic Congress (ADC) – the platform for the Coalition of Opposition Politicians (COP) of “former this, ex-that” – which’s slammed Soludo for “engaging in voter inducement” because “he’s out of touch” with the Anambra electorate.
In a post on his X handle (@BolajiADC) on October 26, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, claimed that: “Only a sitting governor, who has run out of public goodwill, would so openly resort to cash for votes, in direct violation of Sections 121 and 127 of the Electoral Act, which criminalise voter inducement of any form. This is a new level of desperation, wrapped in impunity, and I hope that INEC is not pretending not to see it.”
Abdullahi’s alarm mimics the ADC governorship candidate, John Nwosu’s criticism of Soludo over reports of the alleged donations, saying: “Such donations raise real concerns about compliance with the Electoral Act, morality, and the rule of law. If cash-strapped local governments are donating millions to the governor’s campaign, that is a charade and a blatant display of official dishonesty.”
Besides, on October 28, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Mr Jake Epelle, blasted Soludo over his reward-for-votes remark, which he described as “political rascality” that undermines democratic values while serving as a veiled form of vote-buying disguised as community empowerment.
Appearing on ARISE News, Epelle said: “Unfortunately, that’s very unfortunate. I would describe that, and everybody knows me, I speak my mind. It’s actually political rascality. That’s the only way I can describe it. Soludo should have known better; that’s not the kind of thing, information you put out there for your people. It’s nothing but an inducement that is wearing the cloak of bait with Naira. It shouldn’t have happened. He shouldn’t have done that.”
While Soludo’s under the radar, the law doesn’t preclude, but limit the amount individuals or groups can contribute to the campaign coffers of their parties and/or preferred candidates. But deploying funds of local governments to such a cause raises a red herring of looting of the treasury, which the INEC and anti-graft agencies should flag.
Actually, in what looks like a response to the “cash-for-votes” complaint against Soludo, INEC’s Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, warned on October 28 that the commission “will resist and curtail” attempt to induce voters before or during the election in Anambra. He spoke at the first meeting with members of the Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).
Declaring that, “We are ready for large-scale deployment on Election Day,” Amupitan said that as INEC’s working with law enforcement and anti-graft agencies to stop vote-buying soiling the electoral process, and ensuring a seamless poll on November 8, political actors must join hands to combat the menace “to restore the integrity of the electoral process.”
“Together, let us combat vote-buying, uphold the values of democracy and work relentlessly for the credibility of our elections. The path ahead may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve,” Amupitan added.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, faces a dilemma, as Soludo flaunts his “closeness” to President Bola Tinubu he’s tactically backed for the 2027 election, even as Tinubu’s endorsed Ukachukwu for Saturday’s poll.
In line with that approval, the APC unveiled, in a post via its X handle on October 29, its National Election Management Council (for launch on Saturday, October 31 in Awka, Anambra’s capital city) for the poll. To be chaired by Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, and co-chaired by Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Niger Governor Mohammed Bago; the council of several committees contains over 100 members of national and South-Eastern political figures, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
This comes as the Orumba South chairman, Hon. Shedrack Azubuike, stopped Dr Ukachukwu’s rally at St Augustine’s Primary School, Umunze, on October 29, “for violating the rules prohibiting the use of public or private school premises for events during school hours.”
An August 2025 circular by the Anambra State Ministry of Education prohibits political, religious or social events in public and private schools during school hours; and members of Dr Ukachukwu’s campaign were erecting canopies for the rally, during school hours, when the council chairman “stormed the area and annulled the rally,” reports Daily Post Nigeria.
With INEC’s bold statement to checkmate vote-buying, the opposition should leave the realm of allegations, brush aside Governor Soludo’s play-for-pay, quid-pro-quo antic with Anambra voters, and utilise the four days remaining for campaigns to mobilise voters to the poll.
Politics isn’t static but dynamic. Something dramatic can happen in the course of a few days in the polity to change the trajectory of the election that seems out of their reach. They should keep hope alive!
* Mr Ezomon, Journalist and Media Consultant, writes from Lagos, Nigeria. Can be reached on X, Threads, Facebook, WhatsApp @EhichioyaEzomon. Tel: 08033078357
The Planning Committee of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced Dr. Ochuko Benedict Emudainohwo, PhD, FCA, Associate Professor of Accounting at Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, as the Guest Speaker for the 6th DOPF Annual Lecture, scheduled to hold on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at David’s Event Centre, Asaba, commencing at 11:00 a.m.
In a joint statement signed by the Chairman, Mr Abel Johngold and Secretary, Josephine Omodior of the Planning Committee, Dr. Emudainohwo was described as an “accomplished scholar and professional accountant with a strong record of academic leadership, research productivity, and service to the discipline and the wider professional community.”
Dr. Emudainohwo, who currently serves as Associate Professor of Accounting at Dennis Osadebay University, is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and a respected authority in accounting, taxation, and financial governance. He previously served as Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences during the 2023/2024 academic session, where he provided leadership in faculty development, curriculum innovation, and research advancement across management disciplines.
A seasoned academic, Dr. Emudainohwo obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting from Glasgow, United Kingdom, and holds both a Master’s Degree in Finance and an MBA (Finance), in addition to a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, all from the University of Lagos (UNILAG). His academic and professional experience bridges theory and practice, with special research interests in foreign direct investment, taxation, firm performance, financial governance, and public sector accountability.
He has published extensively in reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals, addressing vital themes in fiscal policy, accountability, and governance reforms in emerging economies. His works have contributed significantly to contemporary debates in accounting and financial policy development.
As an educator, Dr. Emudainohwo is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of accounting professionals and scholars. He coordinates the Accounting Technician Scheme (ATS) at Dennis Osadebay University and teaches a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Financial Accounting, Contemporary Issues in Accounting, Social and Environmental Accounting, History of Accounting Thought, and Advanced Management Accounting Theory. He has also supervised several student research projects and dissertations.
Beyond his teaching and research roles, Dr. Emudainohwo plays an active part in university administration, serving on several committees that promote academic quality and institutional growth. He maintains professional affiliations with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and continues to contribute to both academic and professional advancement in his field.
The Planning Committee expressed confidence that Dr. Emudainohwo’s lecture will provide “a scholarly, practical, and policy-relevant perspective” on the 2025 theme, “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society.”
The 2025 DOPF Annual Lecture will also feature a panel of distinguished discussants drawn from government, academia, business, and civil society, and is expected to attract policymakers, professionals, corporate executives, and the media.
The organisers confirmed that His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, will attend the event as the Special Guest of Honour, alongside other senior government representatives and dignitaries from across the country.
The riverine communities of the Niger Delta and South-South region embody a rare blend of beauty, complexity, and resilience. Their geography presents both opportunities and challenges that demand context-specific infrastructural solutions.
It is appropriate that the Southwest Development Commission (SWDC) focuses on superhighways. Roads define the Southwest terrain and the dividends of a “road economy” forms trade facilitation to regional integration. These are both multidimensional and transformative.
The Niger Delta, however, tells a different story. Its intricate web of creeks, mangroves, and coastal settlements calls for an equally intricate form of connectivity. Gbaramatu Kingdom offers a compelling illustration.
Until recently, Gbaramatu was virtually inaccessible by road. The only viable route was through the Atlantic Ocean, a journey often turbulent and intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with the sea. In earlier years, even inter-community travel required venturing into open waters before looping back inland. While residents adapted to this demanding routine, it was far from efficient or safe.
In response, the Gbaramatu people, working with the Delta State Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), embarked on an ambitious waterways development initiative. Mangroves were cleared to create navigable channels ——linking once-isolated communities. The result is a remarkable riverine network, an aquatic superhighway that has revolutionised local mobility while stimulating commerce, social interaction, and access to essential services.
Gbaramatu’s experience underscores a crucial lesson: infrastructure must reflect geography. As upland regions celebrate the promise of superhighways, riverine regions like the Niger Delta must equally invest in superwaterways ——networks of modern, navigable channels and marine transport systems tailored to life on water.
There are however lessons from global models. The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, has perfected inter-island connectivity through ferries, bridges, and ports. Yet, its model, island-to-island integration, differs from Nigeria’s coastal reality.
Nigeria’s sea-hugging communities cannot thrive in isolation from the mainland economy. Our inland regions are anchored on road infrastructure, while our coastlines remain underutilised gateways to global trade. To unlock their potential, we must extend our road networks into the sea, creating marine corridors and coastal highways that connect seamlessly with inland economic hubs.
This is the approach adopted by nations such as China, the UAE, and the Netherlands, where marine and coastal infrastructure are central to economic integration and logistics.
Nigeria must follow suit. The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) should make coastal-to-mainland integration a strategic priority, linking the riverine economy to national and global value chains. The opportunities are immense, from tourism and logistics to exports, marine industries, and renewable energy. Our coast represents a multi-trillion-naira frontier waiting to be unlocked.
POSTSCRIPT: HISTORICAL FOUNDATIONS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS:
The Southwest draws strength from the enduring legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s visionary regional planning, the institutional resilience of Odu’a Investment structures, and a tradition of integrated, purposeful development. These continue to guide its strategic orientation today.
By contrast, the South-South region evolved from the fragmentation of the old Eastern and Western Regions. Yet, in the First Republic, leaders such as Dr Michael Okpara, Chief Awolowo, and Sir Ahmadu Bello championed bold, regionally grounded development agendas, meticulously planned and documented, visionary yet pragmatic.
It is time to revisit those foundational blueprints, Eastern and Western alike, to distill the enduring principles that can inspire a new generation of regional renewal and infrastructural innovation across the South-South.
ON October 24, one of the leading Online platforms – The Pond, published by a former Editor of the Delta State-owned Pointer Newspapers, Julius Oweh came out with this piece, hereby, reproduced.
SIDE KICK: Govt Sleeping over Disgraceful Signpost
“The Cabinet Road is an important road in Asaba, the Delta State capital as it houses the office of the Head of Service, the office of Secretary to Government and Commissioners official quarters.
“Yet the signpost of this important road can’t be fixed or government officials believe it is not worth the effort.
“They are of the mindset that the contract for adding ‘b’ to the spelling of Cabinet would not attract huge amount of money.
“If the Commissioners and the Secretary to State Government are unable to see this disgrace, what of the Head of Service whose office is on the left hand side of the road?
“Dr. M. Oseji is more enamoured with dress code that bans coloured hair, false nails for women, wearing of beards by men and papa caps and resource control caps for men.
The Head of Service (HoS), Dr. M. Oseji
“The Pond News understands that this disgraceful signpost mocked the tenure of the former Head of Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko.
“But the burden is more on the current Head of Service because of her reform agenda.
“You can reform the civil servants by dressing well but you find it difficult to reform an obvious embarrassment to the government. Something is really not adding up”.
Yesterday (Sunday) morning, as I was driving through that route for church service, the curiousity of this Reporter made me to turn my eyes but unfortunately, that signpost was yet to be fixed.
The question now is can the officers concerned including the Governor’s Media Aides pretend that they did not read the report. Or are they coming up to describe the report as ‘politically- motivated’?
Haba!
Yvonne T. Chua in an article published by Oxford University Press, titled, ‘The Development Journalism Locked wrote:
The term “Development Journalism” is five decades old. But if the volume of academic research was the lone measure of its reach and impact, then one may erroneously conclude that this field of journalism has hardly had any reach and impact at all.
There is a paucity of scholarly studies for a genre that has proliferated across three continents and was once touted as the new journalism for Third World countries.
Existing literature points to two main patterns. One sees scholars pitted against each other on what development journalism is and ought to be. The reason: diverse, even opposing, variations of this genre of journalism have emerged according to social, political, economic, and cultural variations in a country or region.
The original ideals of development journalism, which requires independent, critical evaluation of the process of development, have been replaced by justifications for a state-controlled media in authoritarian states being passed off as development journalism. That explains the second pattern: studies tend to diverge rather than converge on the concept of development journalism.
Over the years, calls have been made to standardize the notion of development journalism or, failing that, to revamp the entire concept. Until that happens, scholars embarking on the study of development journalism need to bear in mind the different approaches and practices, and avoid cherry-picking components that will distort findings.
The approaches range from development journalists as willing partners of government (statist) to watchdogs (investigative) and from interventionist (participatory or emancipatory) to guardians of transparency. Within the range are more variants or combinations. The bright side is that there is agreement on some of the essentials for development journalism: emphasis on the process of development to bring about social change (communitarian).
… orders the US Congress to launch investigation immediately and report back to him
… blacklists Nigeria as a ‘COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN‘
President of the United States of America (USA), Donald Trump has once again listed Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” accusing it of allowing what he called genocide against Christians.
Trump, in a post on social media Friday night, stated: “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a ‘COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN’ — but that is the least of it. When Christians, or any such group, is slaughtered like is happening in Nigeria (3,100 versus 4,476 worldwide), something must be done!”
Trump also urged the U.S. Congress to act quickly on the matter.
“I am asking Congressman Riley Moore, together with Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, to immediately look into this matter, and report back to me”, he added.
The President said the U.S could not remain silent while such “atrocities” continue in Nigeria and other countries.
“We stand ready, willing, and able to save our great Christian population around the world,” he said.
The allegation came after Vice-President Kashim Shettima voiced support for Gaza at the recent United Nations General Assembly, which reportedly drew criticism from pro-Christian groups in the U.S.
However, several international figures, including a Vatican Cardinal dismissed the claims, arguing that both Christians and Muslims are victims of insecurity in Nigeria.
Credit: Daily Post
*One of the scenes of mass burial of massacred Christians
….asks “Who is actually afraid of Samuel Ogbuku over the next Bayelsa State Governorship that he has not even declared his intentions for?”
The Chairman of the Anti Corruption and Integrity Forum, and publisher of Integrity Watchdog Magazine, Comrade Prince Kpokpogri has called on the public to disregard the news that the Managing Director of NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku was arrested over failed plot to topple the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a fake news, speculative and handiwork of a fifth columnist.
Prince Kpokpogri gave this caution in a press release where he said he was speaking as a concerned citizen over the spate of falsehood being peddled by Nigerians without cross-checking or fact-checking information before getting involved.
He asked, “When has being interrogated amount to being arrested in a sane environment where people do not read meanings into the professional routine job of security agencies? When has it become a crime to answer questions as a friend to a suspect undergoing investigation?
He further asked, “Who is actually afraid of Samuel Ogbuku over the next Bayelsa State Governorship election that he has not even declared his intentions for?”
Comrade Kpokpogri, however, maintained that Samuel Ogbuku being close to Timipre Sylva does not in any way present him as having a hand in the coup plot for which Timipre Sylva had been allegedly fingered.
He added that the security agencies reserve the right to ask Timipre Sylva’s friends questions after raiding his house in Abuja, but that should not in any way be misconstrued to mean that the NDDC helmsman was arrested in connection to any coup plot.
His words, “Let it be noted that I am not speaking as a media aide or friend to Samuel Ogbuku. I am only speaking as a concerned citizen of Nigeria. My issue here basically, is the peddling of falsehood and capitalizing on a sad event at the national space to begin to denigrate and malign one of the most patriotic Nigerians and unarguably the best administrator Niger Deltans have ever had as MD of NDDC.
“Without mincing words, Samuel Ogbuku is the best that has happened to Niger Delta in recent times. When you check the history of the Niger Delta Development Commission since inception, Samuel Ogbuku is the only MD that has carried the people along, spread contracts to not a few and unqualified people; his performance is top-notch and achievements widely spread.
“Nobody should begin to use the circumstances of an allegation against his former boss to want to stain him. So far, he has proven the integrity and transparency that were needed to run an organisation such as NDDC”, Kpokpogri posited.
Furthermore on the alleged N45 billion traced to Timipre Sylva’s account, Kpokpogri said, “If Timipre Sylva was allegedly paid as reported by the Punch Newspapers, I think the Management Board of the NDDC acted in good faith without allegedly knowing his agenda. He is a contractor to NDDC just like every other contractor working for the Commission; what he uses his money for, is strictly his own question to answer. He handles the Shoreline Protection project for the NDDC from my understanding, and he was allegedly paid from the NDDC account. The Commission is not administered by one person but a team that was constituted into a Management Board”, Kpokpogri added.
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has reaffirmed his strong commitment to the creation of Anioma State, expressing confidence that the long-awaited demand will soon become a reality.
The senator, known for his bold developmental initiatives, stated that all constitutional requirements for the creation of Anioma State have been met, and that a referendum on the issue is expected to take place within the next few months.
Speaking during an interview on the ongoing national discourse about state creation, Senator Nwoko emphasized that the people of Anioma are united and overwhelmingly in support of the proposed state.
“Nobody is opposing the creation of Anioma State. I don’t know any Anioma man or woman who is against it,” Nwoko declared.
“Anioma is rich, six of our local government areas are oil and gas producing. We have the highest gas deposits in Africa, vast agricultural land, and we are more than self-sufficient.”
Highlighting the economic strength of the proposed state, Nwoko noted that Anioma contributes significantly to Delta State’s revenue, asserting that about 40 percent of Delta State’s federal allocation comes from Anioma.
He maintained that Anioma possesses all the resources necessary to function independently, both economically and administratively.
“Anioma is much more ready to be self-sufficient than most current states. We have the natural and human resources to sustain ourselves and contribute to national development,” the senator stated confidently.
Nwoko recalled that during the recent retreat of joint National Assembly committee in Lagos, political stakeholders and constitutional experts agreed on the need for the creation of an additional state in the South East geopolitical zone to bring it at par with other regions of the country, each having six states.
“It was agreed that one state should be created for the South East to make it six. After that, there will be one new state per zone to make seven in each geopolitical zone,” he explained.
According to Senator Nwoko, the movement for Anioma State has made significant progress within the National Assembly, and the legislative process is approaching its final stages.
“We have met all constitutional criteria for state creation. The referendum will come within the next few months. We’ve got the guidelines and are following due process,” he assured.
He further revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed support for the initiative, provided that the National Assembly completes its legislative work.
“I discussed with Mr. President, and he assured me he would support it as long as we at the National Assembly do our part. Once we conclude the third reading and the referendum, the President will take it from there,” Nwoko said.
“The President is very strategic, and I believe the most important thing he can do for us now is to give Nigeria Anioma State. It will bring peace to the South East.”
Drawing parallels with his past achievements, Senator Nwoko expressed optimism that the Anioma State project would succeed.
“There’s nothing I’ve put my hand to that I haven’t achieved,” he remarked. “When I said I would build a Sports University, many doubted me, but today it is in its third year.
“When I said I was going to Antarctica, people questioned the possibility, but I went there. Even when I worked on the Paris Club refund, they said it was impossible to take foreign governments to court, yet we succeeded.”
Senator Nwoko stressed that the creation of Anioma State would not only enhance equity and representation in Nigeria’s federal structure but also foster peace and inclusion in the South East region.
“The President loves the Igbo people and wants peace in the South East. The creation of Anioma State will be a major step toward that peace,” he affirmed.
The Anioma people, predominantly of Igbo origin, occupy the Delta North Senatorial District in Delta State. The agitation for Anioma State has persisted for decades, with advocates arguing that its creation would correct the imbalance in the number of states across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and provide fairer representation for the Igbo population west of the River Niger.
Governor Oborevwori’s recent address to political office holders in the state, where he articulated a transformative leadership philosophy centered on what he termed “the Principle of the Three Rs“, will strengthen the APC’s foundation in Delta State and ensure lasting political harmony.
In his speech at a recently held stakeholders meeting, Governor Oborevwori enjoined office holders, politicians and stakeholders across the state to embrace a leadership approach built on three fundamental pillars that he believes are essential for sustainable party growth and cohesion.
The firstR, Respect, focuses on the importance of according due reverence to party leaders at all levels. Governor Oborevwori stressed that a culture of mutual respect creates an environment where experienced politicians feel valued and younger party members benefit from mentorship and guidance.
The secondR, Recognition, focuses on giving leaders a sense of acknowledgment for their efforts and contributions to the party’s success. Governor Oborevwori emphasized that recognition goes beyond verbal appreciation, and involves tangible actions that demonstrate awareness of leaders’ roles in building and sustaining the party.
The third R, Relevance, addresses the critical need to ensure that party leaders remain actively engaged and influential in party affairs.
By making leaders relevant, more opportunities will be for their continued participation in decision-making processes and ensuring their voices carry weight in party deliberations.
Governor Oborevwori’s Three Rs philosophy is a demonstration of political maturity and strategic thinking that sets him apart from conventional politicians who often neglect party structure in pursuit of personal ambitions.
The governor’s articulation of these principles shows a leader who understands that sustainable political success is built on strong party foundations, not individual popularity.
The governor’s emphasis on respect, recognition, and relevance of leaders reflects a commitment to building a united, strong, and formidable APC in Delta State.
By institutionalizing Respect, Recognition, and Relevance,Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is creating a template for how political parties should operate, not as loose associations of individuals pursuing personal interests, but as cohesive organizations bound by shared values and mutual appreciation”.
Governor Oborevwori has shown through his actions that he believes in building bridges rather than walls, in uniting rather than dividing, and in strengthening the party structure through inclusive leadership,
Implementation of the three Rs has created a more harmonious political environment in Delta State, reduced unnecessary tensions within the party, and demonstrated that leaders with different perspectives can work together effectively when mutual respect and common purpose prevail.
In Nigerian politics, we have seen too many leaders who speak eloquently but fail to follow through with action. Governor Oborevwori is different. When he says he will respect, recognize, and maintain the relevance of leaders, he doesn’t just say it, he does it.
Political differences need not become personal animosities and that leaders can maintain their individual identities while working toward common goals.
Political office holders and politicians across Delta State should embrace Governor Oborevwori’s Three Rs philosophy in their own spheres of influence.
The governor has shown us the way. Now it is our responsibility as political office holders and party members to ensure that we practice these principles in our interactions with leaders at all levels. We must respect them, recognize their contributions, and ensure they remain relevant in party affairs.
Leadership is all about creating systems and cultures that outlive individuals, not ones that will die fast when we are out of office. And Governor Oborevwori is building such a culture through his Three Rs philosophy, and history will record his contributions to Delta State’s political development.
….throws its full weight behind Senator Ned Nwoko currently championing the cause for the creation of Anioma
Influential socio-political group, Club Anio 50, has called for unity among the Anioma people over the renewed agitation for the creation of Anioma State, urging detractors to desist from sowing discord and politicizing the movement.
In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Matthew Udeze Oweleke, and Secretary, Mr. Chidi Ubah, the group expressed “profound concern” over what it described as “disingenuous and unnecessary controversies” being peddled by individuals seeking political relevance at the expense of Anioma’s collective interest.
Club Anio 50, made up of prominent professionals and political figures from Delta North Senatorial District, reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the creation of Anioma State, a struggle it said predates the formation of the current Delta State and even contributed to Asaba being named the state capital in 1991.
The organization threw its full weight behind Senator Ned Nwoko, the lawmaker representing Delta North in the National Assembly, who is currently championing the cause for the creation of Anioma State.
While acknowledging that some critics have accused Senator Nwoko of not consulting widely and of pursuing the agenda for personal political ambition, Club Anio 50 dismissed those claims as unfounded and politically motivated.
The statement emphasized that the agitation for Anioma State is an age-old movement and not an invention of any one politician. It added that the process of state creation in Nigeria is complex and requires broad national consensus, which the Senator is actively working to build.
Club Anio 50 also condemned attempts to divide Anioma people along ethnic or geopolitical lines, particularly the argument that Anioma is not part of the Igbo cultural group or that it should remain in the South-South rather than the South-East geopolitical zone.
“We are embarrassed by those promoting the narrative that Anioma people are not Igbos. In a country that is in dire search for unity in diversity, we should not be seen as promoting diversity in unity,” the group said.
The statement further noted that Nigeria’s geopolitical zones are relatively recent administrative constructs and should not be used to limit the legitimate aspirations of any group.
Citing historical precedents, Club Anio 50 traced Nigeria’s state creation process to post-civil war efforts to ensure national unity and balanced development. The group argued that the creation of Anioma State would align with the broader political and economic evolution.
Club Anio 50 urged all Anioma sons and daughters to rally behind the collective cause rather than engage in “revisionism” or internal sabotage. The group warned that internal divisions could undermine decades of advocacy and delay the realization of Anioma State.
“We must avoid destroying the foundation for the creation of Anioma State that we have spent decades constructing,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its unifying mission, Club Anio 50 said it deliberately avoided naming groups to prevent further polarization. It reiterated its confidence that the renewed national discussion on state creation presents a timely opportunity for Anioma people to achieve their long-cherished dream.
… Am divinely on assignment, my voice cannot be silenced even in these trying times
*Solidarity visit to me since incarceration is overwhelming
*Ministry of Lands refusal to authenticate the land documents put forward as surety was masterminded
Journalist Fejiro Oliver presently held at Ogwashi-Uku Correctional Centre (Prison) on Awaiting Trial Charge has written a letter, titled, ‘Note from the Prison Wall’ which coincided with his 39 birthday.
The letter which was hand-written, sighted Monday (today) by The Townhall reads in part:
“Today, I pen down this from prison in Ogwashi-Ukwu where I am divinely on assignment but Sheriff Oborevwori thinks in his heart that it is his making. He’s only but a vessel for which I am grateful to God for.
“Today is my 39th year birthday and a beginning to the Almighty which I gladly spend in prison.
“When the fearless Federal High Court Judge gave her bail ruling, the conditions were met in 24 hours. A lot of persons volunteered their properties worth thousands of million to be used as surety.
“It was a humble example and a message to me, F.O, you are not alone and you are on the right path.
“The plot to weaken my spirit” the letter continued, “failed, as I have never been downcast since I was taken to prison.
One thing is certain, I MUST leave whether the Commissioner for Lands signed or not.
“Today, Deltans can now see… This is another reason why I urge ALL Nigerians never to support State Police.
“Thank you all for keeping faith with me. Be rest assured that my voice which is yours can’t be silenced even in these nonsense power drunk trying times”, the letter added.
Meantime, the Director General, Confab for the Actualization of Human Rights, Barrister Omes Ogedegbe has equally complained about the purported delay from the State Ministry of Lands in authenticating the landed properties put forward as surety.
He wrote thus:
Who Is Afraid of Fejiro Oliver?
“The Federal High Court has granted bail to Journalist and Human Rights Activist, Fejiro Oliver, with clear directives from the Presiding Judge that the Surety documents be verified by three authorities — the Court’s Registrar, the Police Prosecutor, and the Ministry of Lands — to confirm that the property offered as surety is duly registered with the Delta State Government.
“While both the Court and the Police have fulfilled their parts—verifying the property valued at ₦15 million—the Delta State Ministry of Lands and Housing has inexplicably refused to open the verification file since it was submitted last Tuesday.
“Disturbingly, credible information suggests that a directive from the State Government ordered the Ministry not to process the verification, effectively frustrating the release of Fejiro Oliver despite a valid court order granting him bail.
“This blatant disregard for the rule of law is a sad reflection of the state of governance in Delta State. The critical questions that must be asked are:
Who is afraid of Fejiro Oliver?
“Why the desperate attempt to keep him behind bars despite a lawful order of the court?
“We therefore call on the Honourable Commissioner for Lands, Delta State, to immediately do the needful and ensure that the rule of law prevails.
“We cannot continue like this. The Ministry must either confirm or decline the verification — but it must act. Justice delayed is justice denied.
The attention of High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has been drawn to the above subject matter, which is trending in some social media platforms.
We wish to state unequivocally and unambiguously that, Tompolo did not author the said publication. High Chief Ekpemupolo has nothing to do with the issue of Nnamdi Kanu. It is clearly the hand work of Tompolo’s enemies, who are out there to discredit and pull him down because of his stand against illegal crude oil activities in the Niger Delta region. These set of people has failed and will continue to fail because he will not relent in carrying out his duty to totally eradicate illegal oil activities in the region.
We wish to reassure the Federal Government, led by our dynamic President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that Tompolo is with him and will continue to support the renewed agenda of his government. We wish to add that Tompolo remains firm and reaffirm his endorsement of Mr President for second term and continues to work for its realisation.
Once again, the Federal Government and the general public should ignore the said publication.
Signed:
Dr Paul Bebenimibo
Media Consultant to High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo
The long-standing agitation for the creation of Anioma State has reached a major milestone as the National Assembly Joint Committee on Constitutional Amendment has reportedly approved the creation of one additional state for the South-East region, a move many now believe strongly favours Anioma State.
At the centre of this renewed hope stands Senator Ned Nwoko, the lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, whose persistent advocacy and deft political lobbying have brought the Anioma cause to national prominence.
A Long Dream Nearing Reality
Over the past one year, Senator Ned Nwoko has sought recognition of the he Anioma people through statehood. His argument has been simple yet powerful: the South-East geopolitical zone remains the only zone with five states, while others have six or more. This numerical imbalance, he insists, translates into less representation, fewer federal allocations, and diminished political voice.
Senator Nwoko’s proposal, encapsulated in his Anioma State Creation Bill, seeks to correct that imbalance by creating Anioma State out of the nine local government areas of Delta North and integrating it into the South-East zone.
With the National Assembly Joint Committee’s approval of one new state for the South-East in the ongoing constitutional review process, Senator Nwoko’s vision is now getting closer to realization than ever.
Ned Nwoko’s Strategic Advocacy
Senator Nwoko’s approach has combined grassroots mobilization, legislative diplomacy, and national consensus building. In the Senate, he has reportedly secured the signatures of over 90 senators supporting the Anioma cause, a feat that underscores the broad appeal and credibility of his argument.
He has also engaged governors, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations across geopolitical lines, framing the Anioma demand not as a parochial interest but as a national issue of fairness and federal balance.
Nwoko’s message resonates: “If Nigeria truly believes in equity and justice, the South-East must be brought at par with other regions. Anioma provides the perfect answer, culturally linked to the Igbo nation, economically viable, and administratively ready.”
Why Anioma Stands Out Among Other Agitations
While other proposed states such as Aba, Adada, Orashi, and Etiti have featured in various regional conversations, the emerging consensus is that Anioma has the strongest case.
Four key factors explain this:
Zonal Equity: Anioma’s creation as the sixth South-East state directly addresses the long-standing imbalance among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Cultural Alignment: Anioma communities share strong linguistic and cultural ties with the South-East, making the integration seamless.
Economic Viability: The region boasts abundant natural resources, fertile agricultural land, and a strong human capital base, all vital for a self-sustaining state.
Population: Creation of Anioma State will grow the population of the South East. Rather than creating a new state which will be cut from states in the zone, Anioma State joining will add to the population in the region.
With the joint National Assembly committee’s recommendation now favouring one new state for the South-East, other agitations within the region are expected to step down in solidarity with the Anioma proposal, recognising it as the most practical and nationally acceptable option.
Political and National Implications
If Anioma State is eventually created, it will mark a historic turning point in Nigeria’s federal evolution.
For the South-East, it would mean greater representation in the Senate, House of Representatives, and federal appointments, restoring parity with other zones.
For Delta State, it would ease long-standing internal administrative pressures and provide the Anioma region with direct control over its development.
For Nigeria, it could be a model of peaceful, consensus-driven state creation, proof that equity can be achieved through dialogue rather than agitation.
Beyond politics, it would also symbolize inclusivity, healing decades of perceived marginalisation among Igbo-speaking communities west of the River Niger.
The Road Ahead
Despite this breakthrough, the process is far from over. The proposed amendment still requires two-thirds approval from state Houses of Assembly, alongside presidential assent. However, with the National Assembly’s joint committee already endorsing the creation of one state for the South-East, and the Anioma proposal standing as the front-runner, the momentum is clearly in Nwoko’s favour.
The senator has pledged to continue engaging stakeholders, ensuring that the constitutional, cultural, and administrative groundwork for Anioma’s emergence is properly laid.
A Victory for Persistence and Vision
From early advocacy to legislative breakthrough, Senator Ned Nwoko’s role has been pivotal. What began as a regional aspiration has now evolved into a national consensus on fairness and inclusion.
If Anioma State eventually comes into being, it will not only be a personal triumph for Senator Nwoko but also a historic correction for Nigeria’s federal balance, fulfilling a dream long nurtured by generations of Anioma sons and daughters.
Indeed, as momentum builds in Abuja and across the South-East, one thing is clear: Anioma State is no longer just an idea, it is a reality in waiting.
Idumuje-Unor community in Aniocha North North local government area of Delta state has condemned a media publication credited to an Ibusa chief , Tony Nwankwo Nwaezeigwe where he reportedly made malicious remarks against the traditional ruler of the kingdom, His Royal Majesty Obi Charles Chukwumwike Anyasi III.
Rising from a meeting of the Idumuje Unor Obi-In-Council, the community said the revered monarch exercised his constitutional rights to free speech on Anioma state state creation and noted that Nwaezeigwe was reckless and disrespectful in opposing the views of the king.
A statement signed on behalf of the Obi-in- council by the Odogwu of Idumuje Unor,Chief Ike R. Chukwudi, described Nwaezeigwe’s tirade as “abominable and highly defamatory”
The statement tilted “NWAEZEIGWE’S SACRILEGIOUS STATEMENT AGAINST IDUMUJE MONARCH AND KINGDOM:- WE STAND BY OUR NOBLE KING” said the misinformation on Anioma identity and Idumuje history was acceptable.
According to the statement, “the traditional ruler of Idumuje Unor and Head of Idumuje Clan – His Royal Majesty, Obi Charles Chukwuwike Anyasi III JP commands the allegiance of the people as a royal father with integrity”
Excerpts of the statement reads :
“We vehemently condemn Nwaezeigwe’s obnoxious and unguarded statements as a tragic taboo. A heinous sacrilege not just against the royal father but the entire Idumuje Clan comprising Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko and Aniofu.
“While arcane customs and sacredness of the Obi’s throne totally forbids a rehash of Nwaezeigwe’s foolhardy profanities against our revered king, we strongly rebuke his unspeakable diatribe as vicious misinformation laced with unimaginable mischief.
“It would be recalled that His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Idumuje-Unor, made a special appearance recently on TVC broadcast channel where he granted an interview, on a news programme, “Behind the Headlines”. The Obi had in that broadcast spoken on a wide range of contemporary issues, including the renewed quest for the creation of Anioma State, currently championed by Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko; representing Delta North Senatorial District.
“Our noble Obi never inferred; all through the enchanting interview, that all Anioma people ( Idumuje clan inclusive ) hailed from one place. A large number of people migrated from Benin.You have the Olukumi. They came from Owo in the West.They are also those who came from Igala; like the Ebu people. Some came from the East.What the Obi said was that everybody has a right to claim specific ancestry, but Aniomas are “statutorily Igbos” by classification.
“It also is alarming that Nwaezigwe could not decipher between monarchical chronology and dynasty, hence he mistook the Anyasi dynasty for Idumuje-Unor’s monarchical chronology.
“Let the public please note that the incumbent hardworking monarch is the third in the Anyasi dynasty and 11th in chronological order from Okwunye. Nwaezeigwe’s attempt at knocking the heads of Imeogbe Ihunmor against Okwunye, and then Atuma against Imeogbe Ihunmor is mischievous and satanic as there is no such conflict.
“The Obi remarkably proved his mettle on the TV broadcast, not just with aristocratic élan, but the effervescent charisma of a cerebral, enigmatic royalty. The Obi addressed all the issues with majestic authority, intellectual ardour, illuminating candour and quintessential gait.
“But for strange reasons, that defy all logic and sane conjecture, Nwaezeigwe gave the most stupefying and ignorant interpretation of the interview.
“We note with utter dismay that he had in recent times defamed some other monarchs in Delta North in his reckless voyage of idle activism in the guise of social commentary. A misguided obsession that is nothing short of dangerous and suicidal.
“A cursory look at his devious and recycled articles betrayed gross irresponsibility and appalling aberration unbecoming of an old man who claims to be a chief – Odogwu of Ibusa.
“Although Nwaezigwe tried to paint a picture of an imaginary war between Idumuje and Odiani clans, it is on record that the two clans have peacefully coexisted for ages. Besides, if we may correct his intentional distortion of hierarchical order, Idumuje-Unor is recorded as the head of the nine communities that make up the recently approved Aniocha-North State Constituency II (Idumuje and Odiani).
“The Obi of Idumuje Unor is far bigger than what Nwaezeigwe would ever imagine or see even with binoculars. Obi Anyasi III is not a tainted “former journalist” or mere traditional ruler in the warped and disrespectful definition of Nwaezeigwe.
“The royal father stands in colossal gait as one of Nigeria’s most iconic media maestros, legendary newspaper columnist, connoisseur of philanthropy and humanitarian accomplishments, now an exemplary enigmatic king. Our Obi is the custodian of our heritage, who edifies the totality of Idumuje people. We stand by our king”, the statement concluded.
Delta State is the highest Oil and Gas producing State in Nigeria, as these products abound in large quantities in the three Senatorial Districts of the State. Delta State also has a lot of arable land for agriculture.
On the 15th of October 2025, the Delta State Government launched its Security Trust Fund. Chief Aig Imokhuede, the Chairman of Access Holdings PLC., was the Chairman at the occasion. In attendance were captains of industry from the oil and gas sector, security chiefs, community leaders, top government functionaries, amongst others.
One of the prides of Delta State in the Banking sector, Chief Jim Ovia, founder of Zenith Bank, was the Special Guest of Honour. High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo, also known as Tompolo, was the Chief Launcher. Other dignitaries present included High Chief Victor Wayles Egukowhore, who donated the sum of one billion naira (₦1bn), Mr. Oboden Ibru , and others.
In his welcome address, the governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, said that the Security Trust Fund was to mobilise resources to compliment government`s investment in security. He said that the focus of the Security Trust Fund will be the acquisition of modern surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, communication gadgets, and for the training and retraining of security personnel and local vigilante. The governor added that without adequate security businesses would not thrive, as no investor would be willing to invest in an unsafe environment.
When it was time for donations, guests lived up to expectations, as millions of naira rolled in. Perhaps, the most outstanding donation was that of the Chief Launcher, High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo (Tompolo). He donated the sum of ten billion naira (#10,000,000,000) on behalf of Tantita Security Service Nigeria Ltd. To those who do not know, this is not the first time that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. is investing on security, invariably because security is one of the major aspects of its activities. The Ugborikoko Police Station is today wearing a new look, as Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. renovated, refurbished and furnished it.
Also, knowing the important role the media play in security, through the prompt and correct reportage of happenings, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd., not too long ago, built and furnished the Correspondents` Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Warri.
On the occasion of the commissioning of the Correspondents` Chapel, the Executive Director (Operations) of Tantita Security Serivices Nigeria Ltd,, Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, made the point that, apart from securing oil and gas facilities, Tantita also has a duty to inform and educate the people about its activities, and seek the security service support of everyone in the tasks of security critical assets of the federal government.
It is on record that High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo has not attended any public function in the past 10 years, so it was a “feat” that the governor was able to get him to come out. Many people know that High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo is the brain behind Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd., but know little about him.
The question is “Who is Tompolo?”
High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo, also known as Tompolo, is a Niger Delta advocate, a businessman, and peace builder. He has a calm mien, not known for talking too much, but he is very articulate. Tompolo came into limelight, when, some years ago, himself and some other Niger Delta agitators like Ateke Tom, Asari Dokubo, Boyloaf, and others, led a crusade for a better deal for the people of the region, considering the fact that the bulk of the revenue of the federation are derived from the region.
Their method, though unconventional, caught the attention of the federal government, as the government was losing a lot of revenue. In the year 2009, the late President Umaru Yar Adua granted full amnesty to all the Niger Delta agitators, on the condition that they lay down their arms. Tompolo embraced the amnesty.
Amnesty is a general pardon where individuals are encouraged to turn over illegal items to the authorities, on the understanding that they will not be prosecuted. Amnesty extinguishes any perceived wrong or offence. Upon accepting the amnesty, High Chief Government Ekpomulpolo settled down to a life of business with the registration of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. as an oil service and security company. Tompolo is an embodiment of humility.
At present, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. has a contract to secure and protect oil and gas installations, pipelines, and also to bring an end the bunkering of petroleum products. Since Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. started providing security services to these critical installations, there has been a marked reduction in the vandalisation of oil and gas installations, and illegal bunkering has reduced remarkably.
Several wells and associated facilities that were shut down because of incessant theft of crude oil and vandalization have been reopened. According to reports from the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), daily production of crude that fell to about 800,000bpd during the time of the crisis, has gone up to about 1.8bpd.
Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. has been very effective in its activities, as it is on record that, on several occasions, its staff have accosted and arrested many vehicles and trucks with stolen crude oil. The role of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. has been acknowledged by the Nigerian military, the NSCDS, NUPRC, etc. What this translates to is that Nigeria is gradually moving towards meeting up with her OPEC quota.
The story of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. cannot be complete without mentioning the man behind the driving wheels. Whereas Tompolo can be referred to as “the big masquerade”, the man behind all the successes so far recorded by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. is Chief Ketsin Pondi, a gentleman par excellence, a philanthropist, a listener, and an articulate businessman.
Soft spoken, and not known for long speeches, Chief Kestin Pondi is a go-getter by all standards. Despite his busy schedules, he is able to attend to social functions, receive people with diverse complaints, and he is always open to suggestions.
Recently, the Hon. Minister of State of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobri, stated that Nigeria was going to push OPEC for an increase in the country’s oil quota to two million barrels per day (2,000,000mb/d). He premised his demands on the sustained recovery in production, improved regulatory environment, and fresh inflow of investment into the oil and gas sector.
The above situation cannot be achieved if there is no security or guarantee of safety of investment, and Tantita Security Services Ltd. is at the forefront of ensuring security in the oil and gas sector of the economy.
Tompolo and Tantita Security Services Ltd. have been advocates for a country where everyone is fairly treated and committed to the security of federal government facilities in the Niger Delta region. The donation of #10,000,000,000 (ten billion naira) to the Delta State Security Trust Fund should be seen as his contribution to the enhancing of the security of the region.
Raymos Guanah, Esq. is an Abuja-based Legal Practitioner.
… Barely 24 hours Delta Assembly called on him to invoke Section 32(1) and (2) of the Law establishing the School which empowers the Visitor to conduct a visitation
AT last, the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, who is the Visitor to the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi Uku has wielded the big stick by ordering the Rector, Prof Emmanuel Achuenu to proceed on six months suspension immediately as earlier directed by the Governing Council.
The governor’s directive was contained in a terse statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, today (Friday).
The governor’s action came barely 24 hours after the Delta State House of Assembly called on him “to invoke Section 32(1) and (2) of the law establishing the institution, which empowers the Visitor to conduct a visitation or direct such a visitation into the affairs of the Polytechnic”.
The SSG’s statement stated that the governor “In his capacity as Visitor to the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, has approved the immediate suspension of the institution’s Rector and Bursar for a period of six months.
*The embattled Rector: suspension confirmed, at last
“He also upheld the earlier suspension of the Registrar by the Polytechnic’s Governing Council.
The statement explained that the suspension of the Principal officers “is to allow for a thorough and unbiased investigation into allegations of administrative misconduct and financial breaches levelled against them by the Governing Council”.
The statement further directed that the Deputy Rector “shall act as Rector during the six-month suspension period, while the most senior accountant in the Bursary Department will serve as Acting Bursar for the same duration”.
The governor’s intervention has put paid to the lingering controversy over months of supremacy battle between the School’s Governing Council and the office of the Commissioner for Higher Education.
The tug of war:
Education Commissioner nullifies the suspension order
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, had in an official letter addressed to the Chairman of the Governing Council, Paul Adingwupu, with reference number MHE/DSPG//Conf/2, dated 7th July 2025 stated that the Council’s action (suspension of the Rector) “exceeds the limits of its disciplinary powers”.
The letter which reads in part stated that “While the Ministry appreciates the Council’s commitment to upholding discipline and accountability in the Polytechnic, it is imperative to underscore that all disciplinary actions especially those affecting Principal Officers must comply with relevant provisions of the law establishing the Polytechnic, as well as the applicable Terms and Conditions of Service.
The Council’s attention is drawn to Part IV, Section 17(1) of the law establishing the Polytechnic, which states: “The Chairman of Council shall, in relation to the Polytechnic, take precedence over all members of the Polytechnic, except the Visitor and the Rector except when acting as Chairman of the Congregation or Convocation, or in the course of performing his academic and executive functions.
“This provision clearly places the Rector immediately after the Visitor in institutional hierarchy, and therefore not subject to direct disciplinary action by the Council without following proper procedures.
“To definitively address what it called the “illegal action” of the Adingwupu-led Council, the letter further invoked Part VII, Section 34 (1 & 2) of the establishing law, which provides that:
“If it appears to Council that a member of Council should be removed on grounds of misconduct or inability to perform his functions, the Council shall make a recommendation through the Commissioner to the Visitor”.
In all, the Commissioner upturned the suspension and directed the Council to likewise reverse itself in that direction.
Paul Adingwupu-led Governing Council rebuffed the Commissioner
The Chairman of the Governing Council wrote back, saying, “Council is constrained to note that the Honourable Commissioner is not in a position to counter the suspension of the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku by the Council. Such powers to do so resides only with the Executive Governor of Delta State.
“This is more so, as the Honourable Commissioner is a member of the Council by virtue of the law establishing the polytechnic and sends representative to Council Meetings and Events.
“In the light of the foregoing and in the absence of infringement of any law on the part of the Council, I hereby respectfully, inform you that Council is unable to accede to your directives as contained in the letter under reference. Accordingly, the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku remains suspended in line with Council resolution”.
Delta Assembly’s intervention
Delta State House of Assembly had during its sitting on Thursday admonished the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari to always act in strict compliance with the enabling Laws establishing the Polytechnic and other Tertiary institutions in the State and steer clear from over-reaching himself in handling of conflicts.
The admonition followed the adoption of a 29-page Comprehensive Report presented by the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee investigating the alleged scandals rocking the Polytechnic.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has not in any way abandoned investigations into the petition filed against the immediate past governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.
It explained that investigations were still ongoing but being careful not to rush to the court without water-tight evidence to secure conviction if need be.
The clarification came during a press briefing in Abuja marking the second anniversary of EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
The Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN) who spoke on behalf of his boss, while fielding questions from newsmen clarified that former Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa remains under investigation for alleged financial misconduct despite his recent defection from his long standing People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
His words, “Someone asked whether politicians who cross over to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it is not true.
“To the best of my knowledge, the case involving a former governor of Delta State is still under investigation and in due course, justice will be served.
Tahir explained that the EFCC prefers to complete investigations thoroughly before proceeding to court, particularly in high-profile or politically sensitive cases.
“We have had situations where cases were rushed to court and the outcomes were not always satisfactory. So, we would rather do a thorough job.
“When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is about. There is no attempt or intention to shield anybody on account of party affiliation — certainly not under this leadership.
“It’s been claimed that there are no high-profile convictions. For us, crime is crime “
When dealing with politically exposed persons”, he went on, “investigations can be complex and time-consuming. For instance, a governor who managed a state for eight years — whatever allegations arise from his tenure — requires detailed scrutiny”, he added.
The explanation came amid growing public concern over the perception that some politicians under investigation seek refuge in the ruling party to evade prosecution.
Recall that on the 27th of December last year, EFCC arrested and detained the former Delta State Accountant-General, now retired, Mrs .Joy Enwa, over the alleged N1.3 trillion fraud linked to former governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
*Former Delta State Accountant-General
Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, said Enwa was interrogated and later released. According to him, “Mrs. Enwa was detained for questioning over the ongoing investigation into the mismanagement of state funds under the former (Okowa) administration. Some other government officials have also been interrogated”.
The anti-graft Agency has also questioned several officials connected to the case, including a former Director of Finance and Administration and a senior government house official.
This followed the November 4 arrest of Okowa himself, who is accused of diverting N1.3 trillion, including portions of the 13 percent derivation funds allocated to oil-producing states.
The former governor is alleged to have used public funds to acquire properties in Abuja and Asaba, the Delta state capital.
Okowa, however, has denied all allegations, describing his arrest and investigation as “politically motivated”.
…as they storm Government House, Delta House of Assembly, Aniocha South LG Council secretariat
SCORES of protesters from Ogwashi-Uku community in Aniocha South local government area of Delta State, Nigeria, on Thursday stormed Government House Asaba on a peaceful protest accusing the Obi of Ogwashi Uku of allegedly “sending away our people from their ancestral farm lands”.
The protesters stated that “We are frustrated by the continued delay of the Delta State Government in releasing the White Paper on the outcome of the Judicial Panel of Enquiry set up by the Delta State Government on Land and Traditional Leadership challenges in Ogwashi-Uku.
“This undue delay has emboldened the Obi and his family in suffering the people and claiming their ancestral lands”.
The petition which they addressed to the Governor, titled ‘ATTEMPT TO ENSLAVE THE PEOPLE OF OGWASHI-UKU’, dated 23rd October 2025 reads in part:
“We, the people of Ogwashi-Uku under the registered and recognized community development association of our kingdom (Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA)) protest to your Excellency and the world at large the deliberate activities of Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo 11, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku to enslave the people of Ogwashi-Uku especially through cunning takeover of our lands and viewing the Monarchy as in a feudal land tenure system with absolute powers.
“Our attention has been drawn to a secret court judgement at faraway Owa Oyibo, Ika South Local Government Area in a case between Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo and Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi Vs Persons Unknown which grants the Petitioners possession (ownership) of “all lands of Ogwashi-Uku”. This court judgement was followed up by obtaining authority to take possession of the lands and subsequent condoning and bulldozing of lands in some quarters recently.
“The judgment has become disturbing since Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo or his agents have commenced taking possession of the lands, sending away our people from their ancestral farm lands and harassing others with petitions and consequent Police arrests.
“A Notice and Warning was issued under the Seal of His Majesty and signed by the Palace Secretary Ifeakanachukwu Emordi which restricts persons entering their farmlands unless with the permission of the Palace. Before this time the citizens had been terrorised by the Palace and their agents through arrests and court processes on phantom charges to shut everyone up like slaves in our father’s land.
“We are frustrated by the continued delay of the Delta State Government in releasing the White Paper on the outcome of the Judicial Panel of Enquiry set up by the Delta State Government on Land and Traditional Leadership challenges in Ogwashi-Uku.
“This undue delay has emboldened the Obi and his family in suffering the people and claiming their ancestral lands.
Prayers:
“Grant that each Village (OGBE) with allies takes their right of autonomy if Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo with these enslavement tendencies be continually imposed on Ogwashi-Uku.
“Show the citizens of Ogwashi-Uku that the Government has listening ears to all petitions of the people to Government on external and internal abuses of Ogwashi- Uku citizens
“Stop deliberate attempts to forcefully remove Dr Jude Okocha as the Registrar of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku even when all Investigative Panels have exonerated him of all accusations. Government should attend to our petitions and not only produce White Papers but see to execution of the decisions necessary to bring peace and order in the kingdom. Ogwashi people are no conquered people.
“The people are being pushed to the wall”, the petition stated.
Receiving the protesters at Government House Asaba, the Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariawodo on behalf of the governor commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct adding that the contentious issues would be addressed speedily to facilitate early ret
The petition was signed by President General of the Ogwashi Uku Development Association (ODA), Sir Patrick Osamor and Secretary General, Mazi Adigwe Eluemunor.
The protesters were also at the Delta State House of Assembly complex where a copy of their protest letter was presented to the Sergeant-at-Arms, Mr Scoth Ehiwogun for onward presentation to the Speaker, Rt Hon Dennis Gwuor.
They also visited the secretariat of Aniocha South local government Council secretariat where the reasons for their protest were outlined by the ODA President General, Patrick Osamor.
.… Our findings revealed alleged certificate racketeering, questionable financial transactions, irregular auctioning of the school’s vehicles – Delta Assembly
MEMBERS of the Delta State House of Assembly have admonished the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari to always act in strict compliance with the enabling Laws establishing the Polytechnic and other Tertiary institutions in the State and steer clear from over-reaching himself in handling of conflicts.
The admonition followed the adoption of a 29-page Comprehensive Report presented by the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee investigating the alleged scandals rocking the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi during Thursday’s plenary.
*The Chairman, Governing Council, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Pastor Paul Adingwupu
They stated that the Commissioner should desist from any actions that could be interpreted as usurping the powers of the Visitor (Governor).
Recall that the Commissioner had upturned the suspension which the Governing Council slammed on the Rector, Professor Emmanuel Achuenu and consequently wrote a stern memo to the Paul Adingwupu-led Governing Council ordering it to reverse itself on the matter.
The Committee in its recommendations, called on the Visitor to the Polytechnic, that’s the Governor, to invoke Section 32(1) and (2) of the law establishing the institution, which empowers the Visitor to conduct a visitation or direct such a visitation into the affairs of the Polytechnic.
*The embattled Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Prof Emmanuel Achuenu
The visitation, according to the Committee, should focus on: the alleged administrative misconduct and financial improprieties by the Rector and Management; the existence and operation of a certificate racketeering syndicate within the Polytechnic; the alleged auction sale of metal scraps, vehicles, and other institutional properties; the general state of the Polytechnic’s finances and revenue administration; and the overall affairs and governance of the institution.
On the whole, the House upheld the six-month suspension of the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Professor Emmanuel Achuenu following the adoption of the Report of the Ad-hoc Committee Report.
Presenting the Report, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, who is also the Majority Leader of the House stated that the investigation uncovered alleged administrative misconduct and financial breaches involving the Rector, Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu and some management officials of the Polytechnic.
He said the Committee’s findings also revealed alleged certificate racketeering, irregular auctioning of metal scraps, vehicles, and other property of the institution, as well as questionable financial transactions within the Polytechnic’s accounts and revenue system.
As at today, the Polytechnic is grounded following the strike action embarked upon by the Lecturers under the umbrella of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP) which the Governing Council Chairman, Pastor Paul Adingwupu as “politically motivated” in order to protect the embattled Rector and other management staff fingered in the raging scandals.
….Envisioned to be located in Agbor, Delta State, the Institute aims to become a center of excellence for grooming ethical, competent and visionary leaders
A major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s leadership and governance capacity was taken on Wednesday as a bill sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) to establish the Institute for Leadership, Entrepreneurial and Corporate Governance passed its first reading in the Nigerian Senate.
The proposed legislation, formally titled the Institute for Leadership, Entrepreneurial and Corporate Governance (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (SB. 921), was introduced during plenary at the National Assembly.
If passed, the bill will create a world-class national institute dedicated to structured training, mentorship, and certification in leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate governance—serving professionals across both the public and private sectors.
Envisioned to be located in Agbor, Delta State, the institute aims to become a center of excellence for grooming ethical, competent, and visionary leaders capable of driving national progress and institutional integrity.
According to the bill’s preamble, the initiative seeks to “address the critical gaps in leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate governance,” thereby enhancing organizational efficiency, economic development, and transparent governance across Nigeria.
Speaking on the proposal, Senator Nwoko stressed that many of Nigeria’s systemic challenges stem from the absence of structured mentorship and value-driven leadership education. The institute, he noted, would “bridge this gap by equipping current and future leaders with the tools to lead with integrity, innovation, and accountability.”
With the first reading successfully completed, the bill will now proceed to its second reading, where lawmakers will deliberate on its principles and broader national implications.
The future looks bright for young scholars across Delta North as the screening exercise for the Senator Ned Nwoko Scholarship Scheme concluded successfully this week. With the process now complete, the selected students are poised to begin their academic journey at the Sports University of Nigeria, Idumuje-Ugboko, fully funded by the Senator.
The initiative, which was announced earlier this year, will support 90 students, 10 from each of the nine local government areas in Delta North, providing full scholarships that cover tuition and accommodation.
“This is a lifeline and an answered prayer for many families,” said Eze Onwenna, a supporter of the program. “Senator Nwoko’s commitment to youth empowerment is not just inspiring, it is transformative.”
The Sports University of Nigeria, known for its cutting-edge facilities and academic excellence in both sports and related disciplines, will serve as the new academic home for the beneficiaries. The scholarship not only aims to provide quality education but also to nurture leadership, discipline, and excellence among the youth.
Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North in the National Assembly, has long been vocal about the role of education in societal development. This scholarship program is among several initiatives he has launched to invest in the region’s future.
“This milestone is a strong testament to the Senator’s vision of societal reorientation and sustainable development,” Onwenna added. “We look forward to seeing these young minds thrive and emerge as ambassadors of Delta North and Nigeria.”
The successful screening marks a major step forward for the initiative, with preparations now underway for the students’ official enrollment at the university. Their academic journey is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
As the program progresses, it is hoped that the ripple effects will be felt not only in education but in sports development, youth leadership, and community transformation throughout the Delta region.
AS the agitation for the creation of Anioma State continues to gain national momentum, Professor Dozie Chukwuokolo, National Secretary of the Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), has called on all proponents of other proposed Igbo states to step down their demands and rally behind Anioma as the legitimate sixth state of the South East.
Professor Chukwuokolo made the declaration during a courtesy visit to Senator Ned Munir Nwoko on Tuesday. He explained that Anioma represents the most unifying and sensible option for the South East’s long standing demand for parity with other geopolitical zones.
“I am excited that the sixth state is coming for Ndi Igbo, and that sixth state is Anioma, Igbo is one and will continue to be one. This is my personal view. Other Igbo people need to understand the need for Anioma to be the sixth Igbo state”, he stated.
Responding, Senator Ned Nwoko, who is currently sponsoring the Anioma State Creation Bill (SB. 481) in the Senate, reiterated his conviction that creating Anioma is the most sensible and equitable route toward addressing the imbalance faced by the South East.
He noted that Prof Chukwuokolo’s position mirrors what every fair minded Nigerian already knows, that the creation of Anioma is not just an ethnic aspiration but a constitutional correction.
He said that while he welcomes other voices pushing for equity, the idea of Balkanizing existing South East states to create a sixth one is counterproductive.
“We should be thinking of integration, not fragmentation. Anioma is the natural and historical sixth state of Ndi Igbo. Its creation will heal wounds, and reinforce the Igbo position on restructuring the Federal Republic of Nigeria in a tangible way”, Senator Ned Nwoko stated.
Echoing this line of reasoning, veteran columnist and political analyst Amanze Obi, in his Vanguard column, urged the Presidency and the National Assembly to focus their attention on Anioma as the most viable and well-defined proposal among all current state creation agitations.
In his words, “Unlike Anioma, whose territory is very well defined, those behind Orlu or Njaba State have not taken time to delineate properly the territory the proposed state should cover. That explains why there have been pockets of disclaimers about the idea.”
Obi maintained that the Presidency and the legislature have a duty to take the least rancorous route to balancing Nigeria’s geopolitical structure, beginning by giving the South-East its sixth state.
He emphasized that Anioma deserves priority because “those behind it have done a good job of their agitation, including its grouping as a South-East state,” adding that such a step would “heal wounds, calm frayed nerves, and right the wrongs of the past.”
According to him, other agitations appear disorganized and driven by expansionist motives, unlike Anioma, which stands as a model of unity, structure, and purpose.
… says it is purely an attempt to shield certain individuals from accountability
THE Chairman of the Governing Council, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Pastor Paul Adingwupu has taken the Lecturers of the Polytechnic to the cleaner for embarking on a two week warning strike in connection with the raging crisis between it (Council) on one hand and Rector plus the suspended Registrar on the other.
A press statement issued by the Chairman of the Governing Council last night, it described the strike as an attempt to “arm-twist the government into taking sides in a matter that is still under official scrutiny”.
“It is unfortunate that the union (ASUP) has allowed itself to be used as a weapon by vested interests who are clearly afraid of the truth coming out. This strike is nothing but an attempt to blackmail the Governor into doing what is ethically and legally wrong.
“If the suspended officers belong to other unions, why is ASUP taking up their case? Why are the unions directly representing them not speaking?
It simply confirms that the union has been hijacked to serve the interest of the management rather than that of workers.
“Instead of cooperating with the investigation to clear his name, the Registrar went to court to challenge his suspension. Since the matter is sub judice, there is no moral or legal basis for the union to demand his reinstatement. They should allow the court to decide.
“If the Governor has been that labour-friendly, as they themselves admitted”, the statement went on, “why are they still embarking on this strike? It makes no sense. Their action contradicts labour laws and undermines the principles of collective bargaining.
“This strike has nothing to do with staff welfare or working conditions. It is purely an attempt to shield certain individuals from accountability. It is wrong and it will not stand.
“We reaffirm our resolve to work for the greater good of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.
We will not be distracted by those who wish to frustrate reforms. Our duty is to protect the integrity of this institution, and that is exactly what we will continue to do”, the statement added.
*Source: Watchmann.ng
Recall that the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme sometime last month (September) received the Report of the Committee on Investigation of Certificate Racketeering and Suspension of affected Staff of the institution.
That Committee was inaugurated on March 25, 2025.
The Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme while receiving the report said “Your report is very clear and straightforward, especially as it concerns the allegations of certificate racketeering.
“Thank you, we will do an executive summary to His Excellency, the Governor for further actions based on your recommendations”.
Chairman of the Committee, Sir Christopher Osakwe, while presenting the report told the deputy governor and top government functionaries that included the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Prof. Tonukari Johnbull, who witnessed the occasion, that the report details the findings of the Inter-Ministerial Committee constituted to investigate allegations of certificate racketeering and the subsequent suspension of staff of the polytechnic.
According to him, “The Committee’s investigation focused on three key areas: conducting an in-depth investigation into the certificate racketeering allegations, reviewing the process leading to staff suspension, and making recommendations to ensure institutional integrity and advise on disciplinary actions”.
THE lingering crisis rocking the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku has taken a new dimension as the Lecturers of the institution appeared to have taken side with the embattled Rector and the suspended Registrar as they unanimously called for the replacement of Paul Adingwupu-led Governing Council.
Rising from a Congress meeting on Tuesday, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic, (ASUP) Ogwashi Chapter, in a Communique stated that time has come for the Delta State Government to sack the Polytechnic Governing Council.
The Communique which was read by the Chairman ASUP, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi Uku, Comrade Dr Michael Ogana, was titled, ‘The lingering Issue of Alleged Result Racketeering That Has Brought Our Institution to Disrepute and Disrupted the Smooth Running of Academic Activities’.
It pointed out that the reputation of the institution, lecturers and her products have been dragged into the mud in the eyes of the public following the sad development.
The Congress has therefore resolved to embark on two weeks warning strike effective from Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
The union demanded immediate recall of the Registrar who was suspended by the Governing Council and payment of all his accrued benefits.
*The Congress in session
They also wondered why the Registrar who was suspended by the Governing Council for six months should now by spending eight months in suspension.
They equally called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the whistle blower (names withheld by The Townhall) for spreading fake news of alleged certificate racketeering.
Recall that the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme sometime last month (September) received the Report of the Committee on Investigation of Certificate Racketeering and Suspension of affected Staff of the institution.
That Committee was inaugurated on March 25, 2025.
The Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme while receiving the report said “Your report is very clear and straightforward, especially as it concerns the allegations of certificate racketeering.
“Thank you, we will do an executive summary to His Excellency, the Governor for further actions based on your recommendations”.
Chairman of the Committee, Sir Christopher Osakwe, while presenting the report told the deputy governor and top government functionaries that included the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Prof. Tonukari Johnbull, who witnessed the occasion, that the report details the findings of the Inter-Ministerial Committee constituted to investigate allegations of certificate racketeering and the subsequent suspension of staff of the polytechnic.
According to him, “The Committee’s investigation focused on three key areas: conducting an in-depth investigation into the certificate racketeering allegations, reviewing the process leading to staff suspension, and making recommendations to ensure institutional integrity and advise on disciplinary actions”.
Also The Guardian Correspondent in Asaba had 21st January 2025, wrote this story about the alleged rot at the Polytechnic.
It reads:
*There is growing concern over the uncovering of an alleged N500 million fraud at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, in Aniocha South Local Council of Delta State.
The Guardian learnt that the alleged fraudulent activities were exposed by a nine-man audit and verification committee chaired by Chika Ogonwa following a thorough investigation.
After conducting thorough inquiries supported by evidence from staff across various departments, the committee submitted its findings to the chairman of the institution’s governing council, Paul Adingwupu.
Inaugurated by Adingwupu on Monday, August 19, 2024, the committee was tasked with verifying and authenticating the certificates and credentials of staff, assessing their attendance records, and addressing other related concerns.
It was revealed that since October 2024, when the committee submitted its report, there has been a standoff between the governing council and the school’s management.
The Guardian learnt that the committee’s report disclosed significant discrepancies in staff employment records. According to the report, the analysis of the physical verification of staff, as provided by heads of departments and unit heads, revealed that the number of ad hoc staff stood at 357 in July 2023. However, this figure increased to 421 by December 2023, with an additional 64 staff employed. By August 2024, the number had risen to 571, reflecting 214 ad hoc staff employment within a year.
The report also highlighted cases of duplicate payments on the ad hoc payroll. For instance, payroll serial number 433 was used to pay an individual named Obuluku Pennsylvania in April 2024. In May 2024, the same individual received payments twice under serial numbers 433 and 465. Similarly, in May 2024, Olomu Deborah Ujiro was paid twice, using serial numbers 439 and 485. Additionally, Okocha Adanma and Ogundipe Kome, listed as domestic servants and attached to the Registrar and the Bursar, had been on the payroll since April 2024.
It is no longer news that Paul Adingwupu led Governing Council had been having a running battle with the Rector of the institution, Professor Emmanuel Achuenu.
Following the high-powered Delta state All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders meeting held at Government House, Asaba, Dr. Michael Nwoko, Chief of Staff to Senator Ned Nwoko, says unity and cohesion formed the fulcrum of APC success ahead of 2027.
Speaking to Reporters after the meeting, Dr. Nwoko described the event as a “turning point” in Delta politics and a clear signal that only collaboration would strengthen the APC.
Dr Nwoko who provided insight into Senator Ned Nwoko’s strategic role in the meeting and the broader implications of the gathering said the federal lawmaker delivered a poignant message on synergy and teamwork.
According to Dr. Nwoko, Senator Nwoko used the platform to reaffirm his total support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s second-term comeback, with the mindset that both leaders symbolized key drivers of development and stability.
“Senator Ned Nwoko was very clear in his message. He called on all leaders across Delta North and the entire state to embrace unity and sincerity of purpose. Let unity begin from wards, LGAs, and zones.His words were not mere political rhetoric, they were a call to action rooted in the need for transformative leadership.
“The Senator called for reconciliation among key leaders, particularly in Delta North. He emphasized that peace and collaboration would deepen the momentum of victory among APC stakeholders in the next circle of elections.
The stakeholders’ meeting was seen as an important step in solidifying the APC’s dominance in the state following series of landmark defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
It would be recalled that the political atmosphere in Delta dramatically shifted with the defection of Senator Nwoko in January, Governor Oborevwori in April, and other high-profile figures such as former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. For the first time since 1999, all three senators representing Delta State are APC members.
Reflecting on this, Dr. Nwoko stated: “It is a new dawn in Delta State.The beginning of a new chapter. More importantly, the meeting reminded us that team spirit is not a slogan, it is a strategic necessity. What we need now is to guard this momentum with sincerity, discipline, and collective resolve. Senator Nwoko believes that defection must not be cosmetic, it must be transformative.
Dr. Michael Nwoko further emphasized that unity across ethnic lines including Anioma, Urhobo, Itsekiri, Isoko and Ijaw, would engender the right atmosphere in delivering not only electoral victory but also long-awaited development goals such as the renewed quest for the creation of Anioma State championed by Senator Ned Nwoko.
“Senator Nwoko is leading by example. “Through projects in road construction, dam rehabilitation, solar electrification, skill empowerment for youths and women, he is showing what sincerity of purpose portrays in action. This is what the APC must replicate across all senatorial zones.
“As Delta State positions itself as political pacesetter in the South-South, Senator Ned Nwoko will remain at the forefront of efforts to foster unity, equity, and prosperity for all,” Dr Nwoko said
The stakeholders meeting was convened by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and attended by prominent APC figures including former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South), Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Omeni Sobotie and Delta North APC Chairman, Adizue Eluaka, former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, among numerous others.
Dr. Michael Nwoko, Chief of Staff to Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko, has called for calm and understanding from the public amid growing speculation surrounding the Senator and his wife, actress Regina Daniels.
In a brief but pointed statement released to the media, Dr. Nwoko described the situation as a “private family matter” and urged fans, well-wishers, and the general public to refrain from unnecessary speculation or interference.
“I respectfully crave the indulgence of all fans and people of goodwill to be calm and continue to demonstrate understanding, as whatever is happening between Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko and his dear wife, Mrs. Regina Daniels Nwoko, is a private family matter,” the statement read. “It will be resolved internally.”
Dr. Nwoko concluded his message by thanking the public for their concern and support, adding, “Thank you all, and God bless.”
The statement comes amid a wave of online rumors and social media chatter regarding the couple’s relationship.
Observers have praised the measured tone of Dr. Nwoko’s message, noting its emphasis on privacy and dignity in the face of public curiosity.
AS the ground shifts from under the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) – due to exodus of its governors to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) – we return to the issue of eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest in the 2027 General Election on the PDP ticket.
This time, though, the focus is on President Bola Tinubu – for dabbling in Jonathan’s qualification saga despite recognising his “alienable right to contest for the presidency again” – and Dr Josef Onoh, an ardent supporter of the President and his former campaign spokesman in the South-East, for “telling truth to power.”
(For the record, Josef, a clinical psychologist and entrepreneur, former Enugu State lawmaker and ex-chairman of Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), is son of the famed Enugu State Governor Christian Chukwuma Onoh (or CC Onoh for short) and brother to Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, wife of head of the defunct Republic of Biafra, Lt-Col. (later General) Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu)
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, had claimed in September 2025 that: “The jury will determine whether Jonathan, who was sworn in twice as president, satisfies the constitutional requirements and is eligible to contest the presidency and be sworn in, if successful, for a third term in office,” even as he boasted that, “Jonathan is no match for Tinubu.”
Onanuga’s responding to a September 28 claim by former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, that Dr Jonathan would be the PDP candidate in 2027, saying that having seen the performances of two APC’s Presidents since 2015, “Nigerians are now yearning for Jonathan’s return to power.”
“Sworn-in” as president in 2010 after the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and in 2011 following his poll victory, legal and political pundits argue that Jonathan’s 2027 bid may infringe the amended 1999 Constitution of Nigeria in Section 137(1)(b) and 137(3) that accordingly limits “election of a President to two terms,” and a single term if the person has “completed the term for which another person was elected as President.”
Tinubu’s joining in the eligibility fray has drawn Onoh into the debate that comes 12 years (2013), and three years (2022) when a similar discourse came up pre-2015 and 2023 elections, and 10 years after Jonathan’s novel peaceful handover of power following his poll defeat in 2015.
To shed light on the issue, Onoh travelled to Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on September 30, to obtain a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Federal High Court judgment on Jonathan’s qualification to contest in 2023; and thereafter told reporters that President Tinubu shouldn’t relitigate Jonathan’s suitability, as “it’s a settled matter,” which, advisory, I abridgedly analyse below:
Onoh premises his advisory to Tinubu on several grounds: Court judgments affirming Jonathan’s eligibility to contest in 2015 and 2023; the court rulings weren’t appealed, and litigating same issues afresh breaches the statute of limitations; unappealed judgments are a finality; there must be an end to litigation; Tinubu needs to avoid setting a precedent of reopening a finalised case; and ignore his handlers, listen to his wife’s sincere voice, and focus on the priorities of voters, who’ll determine his second-term bid in 2027.
To Onoh, as The Nation reported on September 30, Jonathan’s eligibility under constitutional term limits “is already a settled legal precedent” that’s established through unchallenged judicial rulings that affirmed his qualification to contest future elections.
“Therefore, President Tinubu should not be deceived by anyone telling him otherwise. This was exactly how Jonathan’s inner cabal, during the build up to 2015 elections, deceived him into believing that he was invisible (invincible), that Nigerians loved him, to the extent he was too carried away that he felt invisible (invincible) and never saw Tinubu coming,” Onoh says.
“Tinubu was the invisible magician that cast the spell that led to Jonathan’s loss at the polls. The President should not fall in the same trap by the voices that surround him now. The one major sincere voice he should listen to is his wife, (as) many will betray him in the coming months,” Onoh adds.
As a reminder, Onoh cites two unappealed court rulings in 2013 and 2022 favouring Jonathan’s eligibility to contest in 2015, and 2023, respectively, which would’ve enabled his second term had he won either of the polls.
Onoh refers to the May 2022 “binding and unappealed judgment” of the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State (Suit No. FHC/YNG/CS/86/2022), which delivered a “definitive ruling” in a case brought by APC members, Andy Solomon and Ibidiye Abraham, against Jonathan, the APC, and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to Onoh, the trial Justice Isa H. Dashen, holding that Jonathan’s constitutionally eligible to contest the presidency of Nigeria again, reasoned that his assumption of office on May 6, 2010, after President Yar’Adua’s death, wasn’t an election under Section 137(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, but “a succession to complete Yar’Adua’s unexpired term, invoking the doctrine of necessity and not counting toward the two-term limit for elected mandates.”
Claiming that Jonathan’s elected only once in 2011, and that he didn’t exhaust his constitutional allowance in the 2015 legitimate re-election attempt, Onoh states: “The 2018 constitutional amendment (via the Fourth Alteration Act), which added Section 137(3) to bar anyone sworn in twice from further contests, does not apply retroactively to Jonathan. The amendment postdated his tenures (2010-2015). It cannot retroactively disqualify rights accrued under the pre-amendment framework.”
Onoh notes three germane issues: The impermissibility of ex-post facto laws (a type of law with retroactive consequences) in Nigeria’s constitutional democracy (a principle reinforced by the Court of Appeal’s 2015 ruling in Cyriacus Njoku vs Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (2015) LPELR-24496(CA)); the May 2022 judgment that wasn’t appealed within the 90-day window allowed by the Constitution and relevant electoral laws; and over three years later, “the ruling stands as final and binding under the doctrine of res judicata (Latin for ‘a matter judged’) – barring relitigation of the same issues between the same parties.”
“Hence I urge Mr. President not to listen to anyone who comes to spin him with legal possibilities of Jonathan’s eligibility because Nigerian jurisprudence, including Supreme Court decisions like Marwa vs Nyako (2012) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1296) 200, upholds such precedents to ensure legal certainty and prevent endless challenges to settled rights,” Onoh says.
“With due respect to Mr. Onanuga, his invocation of future court scrutiny, while respectful of judicial authority, ignores this finality due to statute of limitations and finality, hence any hypothetical challenger today would face dismissal for delay, as the core facts (of Jonathan’s oaths and elections) are historical and were adjudicated in 2022,” he adds.
Stating that the Supreme Court has consistently ruled against “stale” claims that could have been appealed timely (e.g. A.G. Federation vs A.G. Abia State (2001) 11 NWLR (Pt. 725) 689); Onoh cites the precedent from the 2013 unappealed Federal High Court ruling (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/231/2013), as per Justice Mudashiru Oniyangi, clearing Jonathan to run in 2015, as forming the bedrock for the 2022 decision.
His words: “This chain of unassailed judgments creates an impregnable legal shield. So, in my opinion, eligibility is a settled constitutional right, not open to political conjecture. I’m aware many critics in the past have framed opposition as a “risk” for parties fielding him (Jonathan) will face a disqualification, acknowledging the unresolved tension with the 2018 amendment, but the 2022 ruling resolves it in Jonathan’s favour.
“In essence, the matter is not pending a “jury” (or judiciary) trial (as Onanuga insinuates); it was conclusively decided. Suggesting otherwise risks undermining judicial authority by implying courts must revisit final verdicts at political whim, eroding the stability essential to Nigeria’s electoral process.”
Addressing Tinubu directly, Onoh declares: “I owe Mr. President the truth before he’s betrayed again by politicians waving successful statistics around him without any knowledge of how Nigerians truly perceive your administration, which isn’t encouraging at the moment but it’s within your powers to change the narratives to your favour.
“To honour the rule of law if Jonathan enters the 2027 race, I advise President Tinubu to engage on visions for economic revival, security, and unity, this elevates the conversation, respecting Jonathan’s cleared path while focusing on voters’ priorities. Nigeria’s democracy thrives when legal finality frees space for ideas, not recycled litigation.”
Will President Tinubu consider Dr Onoh’s intervention, and keep at bay those egging him on to pursue an endless litigation of courts’ finalised eligibility of Dr Jonathan to contest in the 2027 General Election? As an Esan proverb says, “Let’s cook the corn pudding in wait for the market to open.”
* Mr Ezomon, Journalist, writes from Lagos, Nigeria. Can be reached on X, Threads, Facebook and WhatsApp @EhichioyaEzomon. Tel: 08033078357
