Delta Guber: Ukodhiko congratulates Oborevwori for winning PDP ticket

By Ajirioghene Oreh

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko has congratulated Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for winning the Delta PDP Governorship primary election of the on Wednesday.

Oborevwori who is Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly polled 590 votes to defeat his closest challenger Chief David Edevbie who scored 113 votes.

Ukodhiko, while reacting to the news of the Speaker’s electoral victory at Asaba, said that, “Rt Hon Oborevwori’s victory is a testimony of his unique life style and his sterling performances in the last five years as the Speaker of the State Legislature which has endeared him to the heart of the people of the State”

According to him, “Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori’s overwhelming victory this evening goes to show the people’s acceptability of him, and the strong believe of the people of his proven ability and capacity to advance Delta State”

“Yes, Mr Speaker‘s victory didn’t come to me as a surprise for he has over the years stayed on course; worked assiduously for the growth of the party and campaigned statewide, consulted the people at noon and night, reaching out to the people wherever and anywhere they can be found.

“Personally, I see his victory as a triumph of democracy in Delta State, and an indication of the people’s choice for Governor in the State “

Commending the People’s Democratic Party, the State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for ensuring a transparent and credible primary election, the former Delta Energy Commissioner stated that, “as a united people under one Umbrella of our party, we will collectively work for the victory of our party, the PDP at next year’s general election.“

Ukodhiko2023: to opponents, we're all winners

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko has congratulated his opponents in the keenly contested race saying "we're all winners".

Ukodhiko in a statement on Tuesday thanked the contestants Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Hon. Orezi Esievo, Chief Itiako Ikpokpo, Prince Johnson Erijo and Chief Dickson Ebegbare for their show of sportsmanship and for running a rancour-free campaign.

The former Energy Commissioner who was welcomed to a rousing reception at Ozoro and his Otor-Igho community, thanked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the State leadership of the party led by Chief Kingsley Esiso for conducting a very free, fair and transparent primary elections across the state.

He particularly thanked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for being a great father and mentor and for providing level playing ground for all aspirants to aspire.

"Let me thank all my fellow contestants for putting up a good fight in the contest. It was not an easy race as only one person can win at any given time.

"I appeal to them to see this victory as a victory for a united Isoko nation as I have always insisted that Isoko is one irrespective of the North and South dichotomy for administrative purposes.

"By the grace of God and with your support and that of all our leaders and party stakeholders we shall defeat any opponent in the general election.

"Let me specially thank our dear Governor and leader, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa for his show of love and for providing enabling environment for a free contest.

"I am eternally grateful first for making me a Member of the State Executive Council where I had the opportunity of superintending over the Ministry of Energy as Honorable Commissioner.

"The experience no doubt was worth it and i will continue to relish the support, friendship and camaraderie of my former colleagues at Exco," he said.

Ukodhiko also lauded the Member Representing Isoko Federal Constituency Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor for being a father, leader and political mentor assuring that he will build on his great antecedents for a greater Isoko nation if elected in the general election.

"To our dear father and a great leader of Isoko politics, Rt. Hon Leo Ogor, I remain loyal and humbled by your political mentorship.

"You stood firmly like the Rock of Gibraltar and I sincerely thank you and all our leaders for their immense support and show of love.

"To all our party officials, both statutory and Adhoc delegates, I thank you all for your prayers and support and by the grace of God and with all your support we shall emerge victorious in the general election," Ukodhiko stated.

Ukodhiko thanks party leaders, delegates, stakeholders for victory

Great PDP Leaders, Elders and Super Delegates from Isoko Federal Constituency, I thank God Almighty and you all for making this wonderful choice of our Representative yesterday 22nd May, 2022.

From the six (6) of us in the contest you chose me by giving me thirty three (33) votes out of the seventy five (75) available votes for grab.

The nearest rival to me had twenty one (21) votes. What a show of love to me? I am overwhelmed with joy. I want to sincerely thank and appreciate you for considering me worthy for this assignment.

My Wonderful people, I plead, you continue to grant me this support even as we move towards the general election coming up in 2023. I know with God and you on my side we shall conquer.

Once again my dear party faithful, I, your loyal servant shall continue in my loyalty and faithfulness to you and the party so that after victory we shall all enjoy the dividends of democracy.

Let me also use this opportunity to thank members of the Unity Group led by Dr Paul Oweh who also doubles as our campaign DG, members of the Ukodhiko Campaign Organisation, James Welch Grammar School Old Boys Association, members of my media team, and all our support groups.

May the Most Gracious God continue to bless and protect you all in Jesus name Amen.

Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!

Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko
PDP Candidate Isoko Federal Constituency
House of Representatives

BREAKING: Ukodhiko wins PDP primary for Isoko Federal Constituency

Immediate Past Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko has won the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election for House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency.

Declaring the result at the election held at the Oleh Township Stadium Oleh on Sunday, Returning Officer, Mr Noel Omodon said Ukodhiko polled 33 votes to defeat his closest challenger and former Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh who scored 21 votes.

According to the result, Hon. Orezi Esievo scored 11 votes to place third while Dickson Ebegbare got 5 votes, Itiako Ikpokpo 3 votes and Johnson Erijo 2 votes respectively.

Omodon said "With the powers conferred on me as returning officer for this election, i hereby declare Jonathan Ukodhiko winner having polled the highest votes in this election,"

Responding, Ukodhiko thanked God and the delegates for his choice adding that Isoko people made the right choice.

He commended his co-aspirants for their spirit of sportsmanship saying the election was peaceful, free, fair and acceptable to all aspirants.

He urged party stakeholders to close ranks and remain united for the task of winning the general election.

Okowa tasks Nigerians on democratic sustainability

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has called on Nigerians to participate actively in the political process to ensure good governance and democratic sustainability in the country.

He stated this on Thursday in Asaba at a two-day Seminar/Workshop on "Good Governance and Democratic Sustainability vis-a-vis Electoral Process" organised by the Asaba Correspondents' Chapel of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council.

Represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, the governor said that it was imperative for Nigerians to participate in the political process to enthrone credible leadership in the country at all times.

According to him, you as citizens need to participate in politics because when you don't vote, you have inadvertently voted for those who are coming to do the wrong thing.

"Once you are 18 years and above, you need to register and have your voters card and come out to cast your vote on election days.

"Once you have done that you have ended up helping in the sustainability of democracy in the country," he said.

The governor appealed to seminar participants to take the message home to members of their families saying "God will not come down to vote if you don't prepare to vote.

"The people get the leadership they deserve, meaning that if you don't vote you would have ended up voting for the wrong people."

He commended the Guest Speaker, Senator Shehu Sani, for his outspokeness and contributions to the growth and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria, describing him as a "firebrand leader and a man who speaks truth to power".

He lauded journalists in the state for their support and commitment to the dissemination of information on his administration’s programmes and policies to the people.

"As a government, we are pleased with members of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel and other journalists in the state because they have supported us in the last seven years, propagating our programmes and polices to the people.

"I speak authoritatively because I have had cause to relate with you all and you believed in honesty and had continued to tell the story just the way they are.

"We are very much aware of the overtures of the opposition to get you to tell stories that are at variance with the state of affairs especially with the N150billion bridging finance facility.

"We do not begrudge those who reason along that trajectory because they do not understand what governance is all about.

"Okowa’s mandate will expire on May 29, 2023 and until the expiration of that day he will continue to work until the last day.

He said his administration has successfully completed over 850 roads spanning 1,650km and line drainages across the 25 local government areas in the state.

"We have also directly empowered over 10,000 Deltans because we believe that it will reflate our economy and improve the standard of living of Deltans

"Currently we are vigorously building 10 Model Technical Colleges in addition to the existing 6 we rehabilitated and we hope to inaugurate them before we leave office," he said.

The governor further remarked that the political appointees he engaged have helped in expanding the frontiers of democratic governance.

"In 2015 when we came on board Delta was 4th position in oil production but today we are number one oil producing state in the country.

"We became number one not because we acquired new oil wells but because we got a number of youths involved in productive services and hence the peace we are having today in the state," he stated.

Guest Speaker, Senator Shehu Sani said Nigeria's democracy was not a gift given by the military but a product of struggle and sacrifice.

He said Nigeria was effectively under full time military rule from 1983 to 1999 where the military forced themselves on power and commended the role played by Professor Wole Soyinka, Gani Fawehinmi, Col Abubakar Umar, Beko Ransome-Kuti among others

"Nigeria's democracy is a product of the blood and sacrifice of many who fought for it and so we have a duty to protect and preserve it.

"We cannot continue to do what we used to do when our population was small and now that we are over 200million people.

In today Nigeria, people prepare for elections as if they are preparing for war because most leaders don't see political office as an opportunity to serve but a position to conquer the people.

He said the only way to achieve peace in the country is by ensuring equity, justice, fairness and treating every Nigerian as a stakeholder in the country.

"If leaders behave as religious or ethnic champions then they are sowing seeds of discord. Only justice, equity and fairness that can keep the country one," he added.

He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress APC as a clueless and failed party who never fulfilled all the promises made to Nigerians in 2015.

"The APC said PDP destroyed the country but ironically 70 percent of members of the APC today came from the PDP so they have also been part of the problem.

"The APC failed on all the promises they made to Nigerians since 2015 and almost everything the ruling party accused the former government of, they are also doing presently.

"In Kaduna state today, only two out of the 23 local governments in the state are free from bandits and kidnappers.

"Kidnapping for ransom has become a daily occurrence in the Northern part of the country where people sell their farms or homes to pay ransom for their kidnapped loved ones.

The ruling political party has failed in their promises to restore law and order and we have seen how lives have been lost not just civilians but police, soldiers and other security personnel.

The APC government has so far spent N4.2Tr for Defence and Security in 7 years yet insecurity has remained unabated.

"We spent $1billion to purchase Tucano jets and this has not stopped kidnapping, banditry and terrorism in the country.

"The terrorists are only armed with motorcycles and Ak-47, yet we keep pumping billions of dollars into security and defence without achieving results.

"Kidnappers call relatives for ransom with Nigerian registered aims but yet no trace of anyone arrested,"

He said the only legacy the government can leave for the people is to secure their lives, saying "the people are not even asking to be lifted out of poverty but to secure their lives while they manage their poverty.

On the nation's precarious economy, he accused the ruling party of accumulating debts and took a swipe at the National Assembly for approving all loans requested by the Buhari administration without proper use.

"The National Assembly is now a rubber stamp because they approved $35billion dollars in two years for the Buhari administration yet we can't see what they have done with the money."

He described the PDP as too elitist and too timid to come out to protest all the evil happenings in the country.

"The PDP has forgotten what the APC did to them in the past, If the PDP is desirous of taking over power from the APC, there must be unity among themselves and they have the people to do it.

"I say this because 80 percent of the people vying for the presidency of this country are not serious.

"Why should people accept quota system and reject rotational power? Those who accept quota system should also accept zoning," Sani added.

The former Senator said democracy could only be sustained if we can ensure free, fair and transparent elections, adding "it's difficult for good people to emerge because the whole process is monetised, people buy their positions," he said

He said the payment of N100m to purchase nomination forms will end up encouraging kidnapping, because no matter how good you are you can't be anything until you have money to share for the people.

"As we move towards the 2023 elections, the ruling party has nothing more to offer they should leave us in peace and allow Nigerians to grapple with their problems as long as they don't have bandits and terrorists harrasing them.

"The reality is before us as Nigeria is now the poverty capital of the world, farmers cannot go to their farms without paying taxes to terrorists

"Don't think because people are suffering that they would vote out the ruling party, if you are not united it will be difficult to oust them.

"The most critical voter in Nigeria is the Northern poor and they are in millions, they don't vote because they are suffering, they vote where their leaders asked them to vote.

If we want this country to remain as one, we have to treat each other with respect and dignity and you can't continue to hold people to ransom for the civil war that happened many years ago.

"If people have lost hope in the ruling party then they are expecting and hoping that the opposition would do better.

"As we move towards the 2023 general elections, Nigerians have a duty to do what is right by electing leaders who can perform and restore law and order in the country

"All we need is a leader with capacity, competence and experience and the people around you who share in your vision," he stated.

Welcoming guests earlier, Chairman of the Chapel, Dominic Adewole, said the theme of the Workshop was carefully chosen as part of deliberate effort to broaden the discourse on the fast approaching 2023 general election in the country.

He added that the success of next year's election is largely dependent on the observance of the provisions of the new Electoral Act by the umpire, INEC, and political stakeholders.

"With the political atmosphere at a fever pitch as the nation marches towards yet another dispensation in the democratic process, this topic couldn't have come at a more appropriate time.

"It is with this in mind that this seminar has been put together to sensitise stakeholders on their roles in the new law as we approach 2023," he stated.

The seminar was attended by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Olisa Ifeajika, State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, representative of the State Commissioner Police Mr Mohammed Ari among others.

#DELEGATES let's think UKODHIKO

Delegates, we all know you have been given the opportunity to decide on behalf of others on whom to represent Isoko Nation at the Green chambers of the national assembly.

As you are about to take this critical and important decision in re-writing our history as ethnic nationality, I plead you #think, #consider and make a thumb print for UKODHIKO come 12th May, 2022.

Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, is a servant-leader whose commitment to vision driving has shown in the success of his private business.

Lets support UKODHIKO for Isoko Federal House of Representative, to enable his vision for the Isoko Nation a reality.

#thinkUJA
#VoteUkodhiko
#VoteaUnifier
#Votequalityandeffectiverepresentation
#VoteAllinclusiveRepresentation

We didn't call meeting to endorse anyone - Delta South Leaders 

Chairman and Convener of the Delta South Leaders and Stakeholders' Forum, Chief Mike Loyibo has refuted media reports that the forum's meeting in Asaba yesterday was called to endorse Chief Sheriff Oborevwori's governorship ambition. 

In a statement on Saturday, Chief Loyibo said that Sheriff Oborevwori was endorsed at the Peemos meeting held in Warri some weeks ago and therefore there was no need for another endorsement. 

According to him, the Asaba meeting was hosted by the Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh to brief members on the progress made so far adding that the group had an appointment to visit the governor on Easter. 

He said that the appointment with the governor was supposed to be in the evening but the governor was travelling to Abuja and asked them to come earlier than scheduled and that was why the meeting ended abruptly. 

"The Delta South Leaders and Stakeholders Forum was formed principally for two things to come together and unite under the Governor who is a pan Deltan who has done well for all senatorial districts in the state to enable him finish strongly. 

"It was also set up to ensure that Delta South is treated well in the scheme of things and to also participate fully in the transition process. 

"At the famous Peemos meeting in Warri which had in attendance all aspirants and stakeholders, we singled out the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Chief Sheriff Oborevwori and endorsed him as our preferred governorship aspirant. 

"Following the endorsement, we set up several committees and Local Government Coordinators to compliment the party structure to ensure that we give him our maximum support. 

"We have gone round with him to all our local government areas in Delta South and the acceptance was massive. We held a meeting at Askia's House in Asaba and it was a one agenda meeting to brief members on the happenings. 

"I addressed members at the meeting and in the spirit of Easter the governor should be visited to brief him on what we have been doing that we have looked at all the people contesting and that we have settled for Sheriff Oborevwori and to seek his support as well. 

"The Governor welcomed us and advised that as leader of the party he would ensure a free, fair and transparent primaries for all aspirants. 

"And so we are shocked when we read in the papers that we were summoned by the governor to end the endorsement meeting for Sheriff. 

"We only went to pay him an Easter visit and to brief him on our activities thus far and he assured that he will provide a level playing field for all aspirants. 

There was nothing like Governor Okowa called to end a meeting that was called to endorse Sheriff because he has long been endorsed. 

"Sheriff Oborevwori is the leading aspirant and I wonder who is afraid of his rising acceptance by all Deltans. 

"He is a man loved by the people. We went everywhere with him and the level of reception was overwhelming. 

"They should be ready to face him on the ground at the  primaries," Chief Loyibo added. 

He urged delegates from Delta South to ensure that the MORE Agenda that will advance development in Delta come to fruition by voting for Sheriff Oborevwori in the party primaries. 

He called on all political leaders across board to support the MORE Agenda, saying "Deltans have chosen Sheriff Oborevwori". 

In a related development, Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Chief Ferguson Onwo dispelled rumour of the alleged stepping down of Speaker Sheriff Oborevwori from the governorship race. 

Onwo said the Sheriff Oborevwori's governorship ambition was a pan Delta project and there is no going back. 

"The Sheriff Oborevwori's gubernatorial ambition has gone beyond Sheriff himself, it is now a movement with destinies tied to the success of that project.

"The visit to the governor included members of the House of Representatives from Delta South, House of Assembly members, Council Chairmen as well as party leaders and stakeholders from the district. 

"So those talking about the Speaker stepping down are only saying that from the figment of their imaginations. We will continue to support him to emerge candidate of the party and go ahead to deliver him in the general election," Onwo stated.

Delta govt blasts Omo-Agege, says declaration speech empty, uninspiring

Delta Government on Friday lashed out at Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege over his governorship declaration speech, describing it as empty and uninspiring.

The government said Omo-Agege failed to tell Deltans and Nigerians what he intend to do differently despite having the programme on live television coverage.

At a news conference in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu told journalists that the emptiness of Omo-Agege's declaration speech shows that he lacked the capacity to govern a state like Delta.

He said that Delta was made up of men and women of integrity and wondered why a man who occupies a sensitive position as Deputy President of the Senate would organise such a declaration programme without clear cut plans on how he intends to govern the state if given the opportunity.

According to him, we were surprised that somebody at that level can organise a declaration which we do not hold against him because it is his democratic right but that he does so, so emptyly is our concern.

"Delta is made up of men and women of integrity and we expect that any of our own irrespective of political party cannot lower the banner by coming up with such emptiness and

"It is important that we advice him to up the ante and not to make members of the general public who are not Deltans to think that our level of understanding of issues is waning.

"We remain number one in the country and that is why we say 'Delta nor dey carry last' and we do not want somebody that is supposed to occupy a very responsible position to lower that very enviable position that our state have occupied in the scheme of things either politically or otherwise."

Aniagwu who was flanked by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Olisa Ifeajika, slammed Omo-Agege for what he described as lack of discipline for time.

"Yesterday, in the course of his declaration he displayed a very high level of indiscipline because he told the people he was going to start that event at 10am but he did not show up until 3pm which means he does not even have respect for time.

"He didn't even know that time between 10am and 3pm is very important to those persons he had gathered and they would have used that time to also engage in other very productive ventures.

"The man who is aspiring to lead our state cannot display that level of indiscipline in the first instance.

"We are also shocked that on a live broadcast which he had paid a reasonable amount of money, for the purpose of showcasing himself and if on a live programme he cannot even tell the people what he wants to do to govern our state, you can understand why we are disappointed at that emptiness," the Commissioner stated.

The Information Commissioner described Omo-Agege's attacks on the Okowa administration and the PDP as petty and an indication that the Delta Central Senator was being economical with the truth for political reasons.

He stated that Okowa has done his best developing all parts of the state in the last seven years and urged the Senator to come home often to be abreast with projects executed by the PDP led administration in the state.

"First and foremost, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa is not on the ballot for the governorship election of Delta State ahead of 2023 because he is about to finish his second term in office which the Constitution allows him.

"And so anybody saying we are going to chase him out of office when the man is already preparing to leave the office means that the man does not actually understand the situation of things.

"This is not a time to say you want to chase out a man who is not contesting with you. If you must chase, you must run after those that you are in the same race with because to the best of our knowledge, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is not running the same race with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.

"A man cannot be in a boxing ring preparing to knock out his opponent and then you who is in a tennis court is now preparing to win him. It is not the same game and that also further underlines the emptiness of that declaration."

Aniagwu stressed that Omo-Agege displayed crass ignorance on developments in the state noting that the three senatorial districts had received reasonable attention in terms of infrastructure and human capital development.

"We have three senatorial districts and in the last seven years, our people do acknowledge the level of unity, of harmony, infrastructural development, advancement in human capital across these senatorial districts.

"But another fact that underlines the emptiness of that declaration is the fact that our dear brother who is occupying a very exalted position, is not even aware of the level of development that characterised these senatorial districts in the last seven years.

"Outlining a few of the ignorance displayed at a very high level, he did mentioned that our dear brothers in Ndokwa nation have been marginalised and have not benefited from the Okowa administration.

"We would need to remind him that he needs to visit Obiaruku and see what is going on with the Obiaruku bridge and the internal roads constructed there as well as the Technical College built by the Okowa administration.

"We need to also tell him that before we came on board, our people from Ndokwa West to Ndokwa East were making use of Pontoon to convey vehicles across but let him go and see what is happening at the Kwale-Beneku bridge.

"We need to also remind him that Eziokpor bridge is ongoing, our people in Nsukwa axis, to Ejeme-Aniogor, Ndemili to Umutu, have very good roads because we have been able to link up our brothers in Ndokwa West and their kits and kins in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

"Let me also remind him that the Kwale Free Trade Zone is in Ndokwa Nation and just last Exco issues around the Kwale Free Trade Zone was a subject of discussion.

"We are not talking about the human capital development that cuts across the 270 wards in the state which the wards in Ndokwa nation are also very inclusive.

He said the people of Isoko nation in Delta South can also attest to the infrastructural development in the area adding that the administration in the first one hundred days in 2015 inaugurated the first road project in the area.

"Let's take him to the Isoko nation, our very dear brothers that have been very supportive of this administration.

"In our first 100 days in office, the first road project we inaugurated as an administration is the Ibrahim Kefas Road in Oleh linking up to the Oleh campus of the Delta State University.

"Let us also tell him that Emore Grammar School Oleh looks like a university even when it is a secondary school. Let us also tell him that we dualized the Emore Road leading very straight into the heart of the Isoko nation in Oleh.

"Needn't we remind him that the University of Science and Technology Ozoro is in Isoko nation and infrastructure is growing up in that institution at a very fast pace even when the school before now boasts of a world standard stadium and indeed a number of other facilities that a lot of universities in this country cannot boast of.

"We don't also need to remind him about the Isoko ring Road which traverses from Ellu, Ovrode, Ofagbe, Orie, Okpe-Isoko, Uro and terminates at Ada-Irri and our people in Isoko land sees these roads.

"The dual carriage road that we are completing from Asaba to Ughelli transverse the length and breath of the Isoko nation.

"We Needn't also remind him that so much has been done including the completion of the law faculty in Oleh campus and of course the accreditation of five departments in the Faculty of Engineering,"

Aniagwu said the Okowa administration had transforned the creeks of Delta with bridges and several road projects including the Ayakoromo bridge, TransWarri road and bridges, the 20.4 km Ogulaha - Obotebe - Yokri, Sokebolou road, Burutu internal roads, Ode-Itsekiri and Ogidigben internal roads among others.

He said Omo-Agege's only major achievement, is the erection of a signboard for the proposed Federal Polytechnic Orogun without any foundation or block work, adding that the Okowa administration had constructed Aragba-Orogun township roads as well as internal roads spanning four streets in Orogun Town where he hails from.

"Not far from there's the Agbarho-Orherhe bridge in the same Ughelli North and the Oha-Orerokpe bridge in Okpe Local Government area so if he is not aware of all these projects it goes to show that he doesn't even visit home.

"The peace, the harmony that we enjoy today is on account of the inclusive nature of Senator Okowa administration including the spread of projects, so if he is not aware then you can imagine the kind of administration he wants to foist on our people.

"We have thought that the cluelessness that exists at their party at the national level may be restricted to that level but for him to want to cascade it to our dear state is something that we will not keep quiet and allow our people to swallow because what happened to Nigeria in 2015 that has brought us to where we are today is not something we can dream of let alone even see in Delta.

"We wish him well in his endeavour to want to become a governor but if he must become let him up the ante because our people are very much informed and exposed.

"When next he speaks he should learn to avoid taking on a man who has left his footprints in the sands of time across the 270 wards in Delta because that is to say the least a display of the lack of knowledge of happenings in our dear state.

"We wish him well, we respect him as a leader, we recognise that democratically he reserves the right to contest but in doing so he must realise that Delta deserves the best and not for him to lower the ante," Aniagwu stated.

2023: Ukodhiko declares for Reps, says "l will fight for Isoko interest"

Immediate past Delta Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko has formally declared interest to contest the Isoko Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

Addressing delegates of Isoko North and South local government areas at Otor-Igho and Oleh respectively on Wednesday, Ukodhiko said he was in the race to fight for the interest, unity and development of the Isoko people.

Accompanied by his wife, Mrs Ivie Ukodhiko and members of his campaign organisation led by Dr Paul Oweh, the businessman turned politician, said he was answering the call of the people to give them quality repre­sentation in the Green Chambers of the National Assembly.

According to him, "Majority of you know me before. But I am here to tell you officially that I have come to obey your clarion call, to contest for the Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

"I am here to give you the assurance that if you give me your support, I will not let you down.

"When you give me support you are also supporting yourself because when I say a thing I do it. I will go there and fight for you and bring things for you.

"I will go there to make sure that your voice is heard and you know that I have the capacity and the capability to do that," he said.

The frontline aspirant further said his aspiration was borne out of the need to unify Isoko and to take it to greater heights.

"I am determined to give Isoko a greater voice and make it outstanding, that people will reckon with and be envious of us.

"My dear delegates, I am here to appeal to your conscience. Today you are in a position to decide the fate of Isoko land for the next four years and that power is in your hands.

"You have the opportunity and the onus is on your shoulders to take Isoko to greater heights or to take it down below what it is today.

"A vote for Ukodhiko is a vote for progress, wealth creation, prosperity, peace, stability and progress of the Isoko people," he declared.

In his response, Chairman Isoko North PDP, Prince Godwin Ogorugba said the party was poised to conduct transparent primaries for all aspirants.

He urge all aspirants to go and campaign to win or lose, stressing that "if you don't have character or a good name, nobody will vote for you.

"Ukodhiko is one of our finest, I have known him for over 30 years and I know that he is eminently qualified to represent the Isoko people.

"It is God that gives power and I wish you all the best in the party primaries," Ogorugba stated.

On his part, Chairman Isoko South PDP, Chief Godspower Obaro, described Ukodhiko as a very humble man who is qualified to contest.

He said as party leaders, "our role is to make sure that the contest is done to the satisfaction of everyone.

"Let me assure you that the party primaries will be conducted free and fair and we will treat everyone equally.

"All the delegates are here, you are free to consult them at anytime and at the end of the day the winner will carry it.

"You are free to enter Isoko South to consult and lobby them ahead of the party primaries," Obaro added.

In their separate remarks, Pioneer Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emmanuel Okoro PhD, and Chief James Obeuwou called on the people not to be deceived by the Isoko North and South dichotomy, adding that Isoko is one united people.

"Do not be deceived. There is nothing like Isoko North or Isoko South dichotomy. What we have is simply for administrative purposes. So let us focus on the man that has the integrity and capacity to represent us further.

"The Ukodhiko we know is a very humble and responsible man. He is a promise keeper and we can assure Isoko people that he is the best man for the job."

The declaration was witnessed by Hon. Christian Iteire, Chairman Isoko North LGA, Hon. Benjamin Efekodo, Hon. Chief Adheke Philip, former Chairman, Isoko-North LGA, Chairman DBS Board, Comrade Felix Ofou, Sir Patrick Akporuno, EA to the Governor, Hon. Peter Emaziye, PhD, SSA to the Governor, Hon. Mike Ogwah, SSA to the Governor, Hon. Richard Isagba, SSA to the Governor, Hon. Jonathan Umukoro Okpako, SSA to the Governor, Hon. Tutumor Daniel, SSA to the Governor, Comr. Nelson Egware, SSA to the Governor.

Others were Dr Mrs Evelyn Aluta, Hon. Alade Odiri, Hon. Frank Kelly, Amb. Egwu Oghenero Alakpodia, Amb. Omaduvie Sunday Oke-Oghene, Hon. Sylvester Ifode, Engr Joseph Oghenero Uyeri, Hon. Adaka, Engr Godfrey Idawene, Hon. Obi Jerry, Blessed Paris, among others.

Sustain your contributions to Nigeria's stability, Okowa urges NUPENG

Delta Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to raise and sustain its contribution quota towards economic growth and stability of the country.

Okowa made the call on Tuesday evening when he received the new leadership of the union on a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba, shortly after their 5th quadrennial delegates conference held in the state capital.

He disclosed that peace and stability of the country were paramount to the socio-economic development of the nation, and charged all hands to be on deck to move the country forward.

According to him, each and everyone of us has very important roles to play, and NUPENG as a union has a lot of roles to play in very difficult times in the nation.

The governor prayed for greater peace in the country, noting that without peace, it would be truly difficult to grow the economy of the nation.

He stressedeven the need for Nigerians to work hard to find a way to ensure greater peace for the nation.

"I thank God that you have been able to meet in peace. I want to congratulate each and everyone of you and also for those who are returning, to congratulate you even further that you have been found fit enough to return to office.

"It is our hope that you all will continue to contribute your quota towards the stability of our nation, Nigeria, in spite of the very difficult times that we find ourselves.

"For me, l believe that this is the time that everybody needs to pray for our country.

"This is a time where we need to put heads together on how best each and everyone of us as a Nigerian, can truly find pathway to put in our best in our individual and collective ways to see to the peace of Nigeria and its prosperity.

"This is because, things are actually getting very difficult for our people and we all need to put our heads together to see what best can be done. It is not a question of leaving things for politicians alone.

"I think each and everyone of us has very important role to play and l know that NUPENG has a lot of roles to play in very difficult times.

"So, I wish you well because as we begin to move into the next few months, it will definitely be tasking for many more Nigerians, including the political class, and l hope that we all have to exercise our God-given talents in our various ways to see how we can be of support to our nation, to ensure its stability," he said.

Okowa expressed appreciation to the union for the choice of Asaba for the delegates' conference, adding that it was something Deltans were happy about.

"We know that a lot of people have come into Asaba now; we return all glory to God for the peace that He has given us here and we are hoping that God will continue to strengthen us in that direction.

"We also pray that God will give us greater peace in our nation because without peace, it will be difficult to grow the economy of this nation, even the local investors will get discouraged, not to talk of having foreign investors come in.

"So, we all have to work hard to find a way to ensure greater peace for our nation.

"l welcome you to Delta State and l wish you the best and hope that at some point in time, we will be able to find ways to partner than just having this conference in Asaba," he added.

Rarlier, the National President of NUPENG, Comrade Williams Akporeha, had told the governor that the visit was to introduce the new leadership of the union to him.

Akporeha lauded the governor for providing enabling environment for NUPENG to hold the quadrennial delegates conference successfully in the state.

In an interview with journalists shortly after the visit, the NUPENG President advocated the need for petroleum products to be refined locally, adding that more refineries should be built in order to mitigate the incessant fuel scarcity being recorded in the country.

Reps' seat: Umeh youths vow to support Ukodhiko

Scores of youths from Umeh community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta, have thrown their weight behind Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko's bid to represent Isoko Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, in the 2023 general election.

The backing of Ukodhiko, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is coming on the heels of a similar endorsement by a group of market women in Oleh, headquarters of the council area.

Welcoming Ukodhiko and his campaign team to Umeh at a consultative visit on Friday, the youths led by Ebah Romeo, also declared their readiness to mobilise and support his candidature within the Federal Constituency.

The youths insisted that Ukodhiko as a renowned business man and entrepreneur, had the capacity and experience to represent Isoko nation amidst daunting economic challenges of unemployment and poverty.

Displaying placards bearing various inscriptions such as "Ukodhiko means well for Isoko", “No Ukodhiko, No Reps", "For employment, quality repre­sentation and security, Ukodhiko is the answer", the youths expressed total support for Ukodhiko's aspiration for the Isoko Federal Constituency seat.

Ebah said Ukodhiko had endeared himself to the Isoko people as a successful entrepreneur and astute player in the oil and gas sector.

"Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko is a vibrant young Isoko man who has given his word to unite the Isoko people.

"We have seen his antecedents in his private and public life and we are convinced beyond reasonable doubt that he is the right man to represent the Isoko people at this time."

A leader in the community and Secretary of Ukodhiko Campaign Organisation, Hon. Chief Odiri Alade in his remarks said Ukodhiko is a man loved by all for his humility and fear of God.

He reiterated the support of the youths, assuring that the people were behind Ukodhiko's aspiration to better the lots of Isoko people.

Responding, Ukodhiko thanked the youths for their support and solidarity, assuring that his quest to represent the Isoko people is to serve their interests by improving their living standards and not to feather his own nest as God has blessed him beyond measures.

TEAM UJA FELICITATES WITH THEIR PRINCIPAL, Ukodhiko AT 47

Members of Team UJA, an appellation for the umbrella body of aides to Pastor Ukodhiko, have congratulated their principal and benefactor, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, the Honourable Commissioner for Energy, Delta State, on the auspicious occasion of his 47th birthday anniversary.

In a felicitation message delivered by the leader of the Team, Pastor Sunday Elueni, it describes Pastor Ukodhiko as a Unifier and a staunch Isoko patriot whose wholesome pursuit of a united and peaceful Isoko Nation is a reflection of his undying passion for the development of Isoko, through a patriotic engagement and involvement of all Isoko sons and daughters.

"Pastor Ukodhiko is a gentle, and respectful politician with the fear of God and a penetrating insight, whose geniality towards his aides and associates is a testament to his humble disposition, who through experience from the private sector and the public sector, have gained so much knowledge and administrative skills, needed for the efficient management of men and resources"

On assumption of office as the Honourable Commissioner for Energy, Delta State, you assembled a team of aides, numbering about 25 persons, to work with you. A munificent gesture that's above the capabilities of many political players, when we consider the enormous financial resources you commit into uplifting your aides on monthly basis.

You have not tarried for one day since assumption of office as the Honourable Commissioner for Energy, you have made concerted efforts towards ensuring there is improvement in the Energy sector of the state, through the initiation of a blueprint energy policy paper, that will empower individuals or corporate bodies with financial capabilities, to come and build power generating plants, and distribute electricity within the state.

Through the intervention of the Energy Ministry, BEDC have been able to secure funding for the completion of the 132KVA abandoned power line from Delta 4, to Ozoro, which will boost the electricity supply in Delta State when completed.

You have shown an astuteness in the handling of your official responsibilities through constructive engagement and involvement of all the critical stakeholders of the electricity industry, towards finding a lasting solution to the myriad of problems confronting the energy sector in the State.

On behalf of Team UJA sir, we want to sincerely congratulate you, on the occasion of your 47th birth anniversary celebration, and we pray that, the good Lord will continue to shower you with longevity, wisdom and above all a clean bill of health, as we face the task ahead.

Happy birthday sir, and congratulations on your new age.

Signed: Pastor Elueni Sunday, on behalf of TEAM UJA.

Delta approves recruitment of 1,500 teachers

Delta Government on Tuesday approved the recruitment of teachers in core subject areas into the Unified Teaching Service of the state.

Commissioner for Information in the state, Charles Aniagwu, stated this while briefing journalists in Asaba on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Aniagwu said the recruitment became necessary to fill in vacancies created as a result of retirement, death and establishment of new schools across the state.

He said that the recruitment would not be political but strictly based on candidates passing Computer Based Test (CBT) in relevant subject areas.

On road construction in the state, the Information Commissioner said Exco approved a number of roads for construction across the three senatorial districts in the state.

He listed Construction of Justice Ada Onyetenu Street Asaba; Okuku Road, Kwale, Ndokwa West; Uche Anyahaebizi Street Asaba; Okobu Street Alisimie, Ika South LGA; Rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh Road in Udu and Construction of Aladja Ogbe-Ijoh Unity Road in Udu and Warri South West Local Government Areas as some of the roads earmarked for construction, rehabilitation and asphalt overlay.

Others include Construction of Chief James Ezechi Street, Okpai, Ndokwa East, Construction of Comrade Izeze Boulevard Road Oginibo, Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The Information Commissioner also announced Exco's approval for the Construction of Ilabor Road in Igbodo, Ika North East, Oko-Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu to link 2nd Niger Bridge Service Road in Oshimili South; Construction of perimeter road at Asaba International Airport; Construction of Samuel Osika/Onojaife Streets, Mosogar, Ethiope West; and Construction of Aboy Road, Bomadi.

Others include construction of Idumu-Inneh Street Phase 1, Issele-Uku, Aniocha North LGA, Construction of Chinedu Obodo Road and Francis Nwajei Street Asaba. Construction of Okwuijen Street, Boji-Boji, Agbor, Ika South, Construction of Buzugbe Street and Oranu Street, Boji-Boji Owa in Ika North East Local Government Area, among others

Aniagwu explained that the construction of the perimeter road at the Asaba Airport was part of government’s responsibility in the airport concession agreement.

Ukodhiko rejoices with Ogorugba on birth anniversary.

The Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, today, 1st of February, 2022, joins family and friends to celebrate with Prince Godwin Ogorugba, Chairman, PDP Isoko North chapter, on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

Ukodhiko in a congratulatory message personally signed by himself and made available to his media team, congratulated Prince Godwin Ogorugba on the attainment of a new milestone, which have heralded many years of accomplishments in service to the Party, PDP, both in Isoko and Delta State in general.

"Ogorugba is a trusted friend with an amazing team spirit and a strong political ally of mine. He's a brave and dogged political enthusiast, whose political sagacity, accommodating personality and friendly disposition, have won admiration across board.

'Today, I rejoice with my friend and brother, on the occasion of his birth anniversary, it is my prayer that, God will continue to shower him with longevity and sound health, to enable him continue to be a blessing to us," Ukodhiko added.

Happy birthday Prince Godwin Ogorugba, and best wishes as you celebrate my friend.

Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, Commissioner for Energy, Delta State.

Delta intervening in critical energy sector - Ukodhiko

Delta State Government says it would enact a law to enable it generate, transmit and distribute power as part of efforts to intervene in critical energy sectors in the state.

Commissioner for Energy in the state, Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko disclosed this while speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Asaba.

He said that with the privatisation of the power sector in Nigeria, the responsibility to generate, transmit and distribute power in the country is now the responsibility of private investors.

He however said that the state government was intervening in critical areas because of the huge shortfall in electricity supply in the country.

According to him, the Okowa led administration was poised to make life meaningful for the people hence the intervention in critical energy sectors.

"As you know, the power sector has been privatised, and it is now a private business. The role the Delta state government is playing right now is what is called "an interventionist role" the government is intervening in some of its critical infrastructures with regards to the power supply.

"When I came in, and I saw that the government had already conceived the IPP idea, I concluded that the first thing we need to do is to enact a law that will empower the state to provide what is called "Captive power" to generate, transmit and distribute power.

"Without this law in place, we will be handicapped and retarded and we have to put that law in place in a way that we will not be in contradiction with the federal law.

"This will enable us to provide power for our people because we cannot keep on folding our hands that there are laws, because constitutionally we are empowered to make life meaningful for our people.

"When I came in saw that there was no law. The state government has not been able to make laws that will empower us to generate, distribute and transmit power that will comply with federal law, what I did after seeing what is on ground, I opened up a discussion with BEDC.

Because we are an investor in BEDC, i told them that there is a need for us to work collaboratively to see how we can make life meaningful for our people.

"We have different options and different approaches to this. Right now we have some stranded power that we are not using out of the 8.5megawatts that we have, we are only using a little above 4megawatts. We still have about 4megawatts that is stranded and not in use that I need to distribute and transmit to people to use.

"I have opened up a discussion with BEDC to see if I can feed it into their grid and give that power to our people, we will sell that power and have an agreement on how we can give that power to our people, and we pay a premium to them, like what is attainable all over the world," he said.

Ukodhiko remarked that the law would enable government generate, transmit, and distribute power to the people without contravening any law.

"We have already drafted something, and we are trying to see how we can come up with a law that is useful and all-inclusive to make life meaningful for our people.

"So once we finish with that law, we will send it to the attorney general to work on and then to the Governor to present as an executive bill to the House of Assembly to pass into law."

Dennis Osadebay University to commence academic activities Feb. - Okowa

Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Tuesday said Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, would commence full academic activities before the end of February, 2022.

Okowa disclosed this while fielding questions from journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing projects in the new university as well as the offices and residential apartments of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and the Chief of Staff, under construction.

He stated that all the courses of the university presented for the first year programme had been accredited by National Universities Commission (NUC), adding that no fewer than 500 students had already been offered admission to study various courses as accredited for the university.

According to him, more students who meet the admission requirements for the accredited courses in the university would be offerred admission by the institution before the admissions come to an end.

The Governor, who inspected the Administration Building, Vice Chancellor's Lodge, Faculty of Environmental Science, Faculty of Agriculture and the university's gate house, expressed satisfaction with the level of work so far executed by the contractors.

While saying that the administrative building and the Vice-Chancellor's lodge would be completed in March, 2022, he stated that Faculty of Environmental Science which was nearing completion would be ready in February.

On Faculty of Agriculture, Okowa described it as ``the star project’’ and said that it would be completed in October, 2022 and that construction of the roads connecting various faculties in the university were on course.

He also inspected the university’s gate under construction and affirmed that the Anwai/Ugbolu road would be expanded and beautified to link Ugbolu and give colour to the university and the Leisure Park and Film Village being built by his administration.

He added that the Faculty of Agricultural Science would accommodate a 500-seater auditorium and two 250-sitting-capacity auditoriums, including the Faculty’s building.

"I am quite satisfied with the level of works done in the various projects at the Dennis Osadebay University.

"We started from the administration block which has gone very far and the contractor has promised to deliver the project in March. From the progress of work, obviously, it will be delivered in March.

"Then, we went to the Vice Chancellor's Lodge which just started three and half months ago and we have a finishimng date of March. Also this year, and l think that with the work done, that is quite fast and very achievable.

"From there, we went to the Faculty of Environmental Sciences which is near completion. We were told that by the middle of February, they will be through with that project but l am giving them an extension up to the end February.

"I must commend all the contractors for a job well done. We also saw the road project that is ongoing, that takes us very quickly into the Faculty of Environmental Sciences unlike the road we took the last time we went to inspect that project.

"But the biggest is our star project, the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences; it is a huge project. The contractor has told us that he will deliver the project in December but we told him that he should try to find how he can deliver it by the end of September, this year.

"I believe that it is doable. He has a lot of workers on site but l am sure that he can get workers who can even run shift duties.

"That is really a very huge building with a 500-seater auditorium and two 250-seater auditoriums along with the main faculty building

"We believe that by the time they complete the project, there will be a lot of space. We call it Faculty of Agricultural Science but I am sure that it is quite a huge building that will take more than the agricultural sciences faculty.

"So, for the Dennis Osadebay University, a lot has been done. We are happy with the progress of work recorded in the university and l do hope that at the beginning of April, there will be a change in that campus. For now it is no longer looking like a glorified primary school," he added.

At the new SSG and Chief of Staff official quarters and offices, the governor announced that the project would be completed in March, 2022, and pledged his administration's commitment to completing all ongoing projects in line with contractual agreement.

The Governor, in company with some commissioners, was conducted round the projects by the project consultant, Mr Kester Ifeadi.

Okowa rejoices with Owhorode of Olomu at 105

Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom, Richard Layieguen, Ovie Ogoni-Oghoro I, on his 105th birth anniversary.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa remarked that the monarch had since ascending the throne, provided purposeful leadership for his people and Urhobo nation.

He pointed out that the monarch's reign had been very beneficial to his kingdom in particular and Urhobo people in general.

According to the governor, the Olomu monarch has in the past 34 years on the throne of his ancestors contributed immensely to the growth and development of his kingdom and the Urhobo people, and therefore, deserves to be celebrated on this special occasion of his birth anniversary.

He said he was joining the royal family, people of Olomu Kingdom at home and in the diaspora and the entire Urhobo nation in celebrating the centenarian monarch, describing him as a bridge-builder, elder statesman and royal cannon who had attained a great landmark age in his journey of life.

Okowa prayed that God would continue to bless the renowned traditional ruler with great wisdom, good health and strength to continue leading the people of his kingdom.

He commended the monarch for his contributions to the prevalence of peace in the state as Chairman of Urhobo traditional rulers.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I warmly felicitate with His Royal Majesty, Richard Layieguen, Ovie Ogoni-Oghoro I, OON, the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom, on the occasion of his 105th birth anniversary.

“We pray that the Almighty God will continue to imbue you with deserving wisdom as you ensure that your domain is replete with peace and development for the pleasure of your people and Urhobos and their neighbours,” the governor stated.

2023: Ukodhiko advises Isoko People to wait for Okowa's directives.

Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, earlier today, attended the Delta Political Vanguard (DPV), new year get-together today in Government Field, Agbor.

Delta Political Vanguard is a political pressure group, whose membership cut across all the Local Government Area councils in Delta State, with Hon. Michael Diden (Ejele) as the chairman and Mr Ifeanyi Eboigbe, as the Director-General of the group.

During the New year get-together, members of DPV, reaffirmed their commitment to follow Governor Okowa's direction regarding the politics of 2023, with a well thought out slogan, "Where OKOWA go, we go".

Pastor Ukodhiko, while addressing his supporters during the get-together celebration in agbor, echoed the slogan of the DPV for his followers and supporters, and advised them on the need for Isoko people to follow suit, as we stand to gain more by working in consonant with the State Governor Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to deliver whoever he will choose as his successor.

Ukodhiko told his followers and supporters from Isoko North and South that, he's pleased with Governor Okowa's policies, and his infrastructural programmes, which are clearly evident in the state for all to see.

He urged them to be patient, as the Governor is still seeking the face of God, to enable him make an informed decision regarding his successor.

The DPV new year get-together, had in attendance a large number of Delta State PDP political heavyweights, and Party supporters drawn from the 25 Local Government Area councils, among whom was the state PDP Chairman, Olorogun Barr. Kingsley Esiso, and members of his Exco, members of the Delta State House of Assembly, ably led by the speaker, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Chief Michael Diden, chairman board of Desopadec, High Chief Askia Bashurun Ogieh, MD Desopadec, Mr. Ifeanyi Eboigbe.

Others were Chief David Edevbie, Chief Kenneth Gbagi, Chief Ejaife Odebala, Chief James Augoye, Chief Abel Esievo, Hon. Tutumor Daniel, Amb Omaduvie Sunday Oke-Oghene, Hon. Alebe Joshua Onos, Hon. Hon Jerry Obi, among others.

Okowa congratulates Senate President, Lawan, at 63

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, has congratulated President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, as he marks his 63rd birth anniversary.

Okowa, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba described the President of the Senate as a leader and democrat, whose commitment to nation-building was noteworthy.

He said that Lawan had brought his wealth of experience to bear on the legislature since his assumption of office as President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly.

The Governor commmended Lawan for his contributions to nation-buildig, saying that the National Assembly under his leadership had done well in passing legislations to improve the living conditions of the people.

"On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate you, Mr President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, on the occasion of your 63rd birth anniversary.

“As President of the 9th Senate, you have led the National Assembly in passing critical legislations for the good governance of Nigeria.

“As you mark your 63rd birth anniversary, I wish you many more years of God’s guidance and protection,” Governor Okowa said.

Okowa sets up Panel of Inquiry on collapsed church building

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has constituted a Panel of Inquiry to determine the cause of the collapsed building of the Okpanam branch of Salvation Ministries in the state.

The Governor on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah, expressed “with shock and sadness the news of the collapse of the building” situated on Okpanam Road, Asaba on Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

According to the statement, the State Government has also suspended the processing and/or approval of building plans for Core Area ll until the Panel of lnquiry concludes its work.

The panel has Dr.(Mrs.) Helen Anazia, as Chairperson with the following members: Engr. S. A. Aghagba, Director, Ministry of Works, Engr. Rex Orhe, Deputy-Director, Ministry of Works, Arc. Orerhime Iduseri, Ministry of Housing, Builder Isichei Felix Ekene, Ministry of Housing and Barr. Moses Agwere, Assistant Director, Ministry of Justice.

The Assistant Director, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Igho Eduvie will serve as Secretary of the Panel, which has two weeks for its assignment.

The Panel has the following terms of reference:

1. To inquire into and report on events surrounding the collapse of the building, including:

a. the number and identity of the deceased and the injured in the building,

b.the immediate and remote causes of the collapse,

c. the scope and adequacy of current legislation, regulations, policies, and processes concerning the safety of buildings for public use,

d. whether such legislation, regulations, policies and processes were complied with in the case of the affected building and identify any person or institution culpable in that regard,

e. the scope and adequacy of current legislation, regulations, policies and processes concerning the emergency management response to the collapse of the building.

2. To make recommendations for:

a. any measures necessary or desirable to prevent or minimise the collapse of buildings in Delta State; and

b. any other matters arising out of, or relating to, the foregoing that come to the Panel’s notice during its inquiries.

Delta plans legislation on power generation, transmission and distribution

The Delta State government says it is working on a legislation that would empower it and private sectors to generate,transmit and distribute electricity to all parts of the state to better the life of her citizen within Delta State exoecailly captive powers.

The State Commissioner for Energy, Pastor Engr.Jonathan Ukodhiko disclosed this at Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of the state during the annual conference of the Isoko Development Union, IDU.

He said the state government has approved the establishment of three additional independent power plants to be established at Ozoro, Warri and Agbor in addition to the 8.5 Megawatts already in Asaba to boost electricity supply in the state.

According to him, right now our people are suffering from almost total blackout which have put off many industries,The goverment is putting that bill together to be presented by His Exellency the governor who will then send it to the House of Assembly for passage into law.

“Let us try and encourage private individuals and companies that have the money to build power plants in various part of the state to generate,transmit and distribute to their area of operations.

"Our amiable governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has approved three more Independent Power Plants to be located in Ozoro, Warri and Owa Alero-Agbor.

“Presently, different companies have indicated interest. The government is not spending money to build those Plants,they will be built by private organizations and sell power to Goverment as the off takers.

"In fact government doesn’t have a business in doing business. We are not going to spend any money in building these power plants.

“The only thing that we are going to do is to buy all the power that is going to be produced, that is, we are going to stand as a guarantor that the power they will generate will be off take from them , that if these people are unable to pay for the power, we will pay for it,"being an off takers of the power in order for them to recoup their investment. Ukodhiko said.

He disclosed that over ten companies have expressed readiness to develop the three newly approved power plants, adding that the state government would ensure that only companies with the right competence and capacity would be engaged.

"As I am talking to you, more than 10 companies have indicated interest to build each of those locations.

“It is now left for us to choose which of the companies have the capacity and wherewithal to build the plants.

"Those are just only three places for now but we believe that as time goes on we should be able to spread it all over the state in order to support whatever the BEDC are doing to improve the light situations of the state because without adequate power we won't be able to develop.This is to add the the smart agenda of our amiable Governor,Dr. Ifeayi Okowa.

"It is not only just to build those power plants but we also want to create energy hubs where we will set up an area where people will be able to Set up cottage Industris in order to generate employment for our people and to generate IGR for Govermemet to boost the economy of the state for sustainable wealth creation.

“What are the energy hubs? The government will acquire about 5 to 10 hectares of land in each of those locations and about 30 percent of the energy that will be generated will be sent to those places for people to come and build cottage industries.

“Once these industries are in place, they will be able to generate employment, they will be able to generate IGR for the state and they will be able to grow the economy of the state.

"That is how far we have gone and by God’s grace before the end of the tenure of this administration those three power plants will begin to run.

“That is why we are looking at companies that can deliver the projects within six months, so that it can work before we leave office.” Ukodhiko added.

Yuletide: Ukodhiko donates food items, wheel chairs to over 3,000 persons in Isoko

Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko, on Tuesday presented food items, wheel chairs and other materials worth millions of naira to the people of Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas of the state.

Presenting the items at his Otor-Igho country home in Isoko North Local Government Area, Ukodhiko said the gesture was part of his contributions to the welfare of the people during the yuletide.

He said the empowerment was an annual gesture and thanked the people for their support to the Okowa led administration in the state.

"I thank God Almighty for making today possible and I also thank God for the gift of life for everyone here.

"I thank you all on behalf of the governor for the tremendous support you have given to his administration and I urge you all to sustain this support for our party, the PDP ahead of the next general election in 2023.

"Its a season of celebration and in our usual tradition we have come here to present food items to widows, orphanages, and over 3,000 people including persons living with disabilities.

"This is an annual empowerment but the difference this year is that we have decided to expand it to accommodate more people in Isoko South.

"I thank you all for coming even as I call on you to continue supporting our party and our governor as we approach the 2023 general elections and beyond," the Commissioner said.

DESOPADEC Commissioner representing Isoko nation, Dr Paul Oweh commended Engr. Ukodhiko for the massive provision for widows, Orphanages, the 24 wards in Isoko and Persons Living with Disabilities.

"We know he has been doing this before but this time around he is doing it as a serving Commissioner for Energy in Delta State and we thank him immensely for his love for the people.

"As leaders of the party in the LGA we will continue to support you to succeed as member representing Isoko North in the State Executive Council," he stated.

Also speaking Special Adviser to the Governor on Community and Rural Development, Dr Emmanuel Okoro, said the gesture is in the spirit of Peoples Democratic Party PDP.

Okoro, the pioneer Speaker of the State House of Assembly said Isoko nation would continue to support the Okowa administration and the PDP because of their support for grassroot development.

Chairman Isoko North PDP, Prince Godwin Ogorugba thanked the Commissioner for the presentation.

He said the party was grateful to the Commissioner for the massive provision to the people to celebrate the yuletide.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for his kind gesture and assured of their continued support and solidarity with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The ceremony was attended by Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Iteire, Chief Phillip Adheke, Chief Benjamin Efekodo, Chief James Obeuwou, Hon. Mike Ogwah Senior Special Assistant, SSA on political matters to the Governor, Hon. Peter Emaziye, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on chieftaincy affairs to the Governor and Chief Emmanuel Edevor among other leaders.

IDU Conference: Ukodhiko calls on Isoko Sons and Daughters to be united.

On 27th December, 2021, the Honorable commissioner for Energy, Delta State, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, joined other dignitaries, as Isoko Development Union (IDU), holds 2021 Annual general conference, at the IDU Secretariat, situated at the Oleh roundabout.

While presenting his goodwill message, the Hon Commissioner Pastor Ukodhiko, commended the efforts of the Prof AKPOTU led IDU excos, for ensuring there is peace in Isoko, especially for amicably resolving the land dispute crisis between Emede and Igbide.

“ I also want to thank the IDU leadership for their continuous support for the Governor Okowa led administration.

You and your team should not waver in your support for the Governor, as I enjoin you to continue to give him all the support you have given him for the past 6 years in order for him to finish strong”.

Continuing, Ukodhiko said “Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, is a man who love Isoko people, and the least we can do in appreciating him, is to support any Candidate that he will present to us as a successor, because of his visionary leadership style and his love for the Isoko people ”.

The Honorable Commissioner, called on Isoko people to be united in purpose, as without unity, Isoko will not be able to attain their place as a Nation.

“Isoko sons and daughters, must join hands and ideals together with the Goverment, to enable us build and develop Isoko Nation, and Delta State in general”.

Pastor Ukodhiko, while addressing the issue of power supply, pleaded with the people of Isoko to be patient with Government regarding the epileptic power supply in Isoko, as the situation is not only peculiar to Isoko alone but Nigeria as a whole.

Let me quickly state it here that, contrary to the perception of some of our people, that we (Goverment) are not doing enough regarding the epileptic power supply in some part of the state, especially Isoko, is not true, as since my assumption in office five (5) months ago, we have not rested on the issue of light.

The light issue is one that give me great concern as the Honorable commissioner of Energy, because since the time the federal government divested their interests in the power sector, and transferred ownership to private individuals and Companies, states governments have been mostly reduced to intervention agents.

And Delta State Government, have not failed in their role as an intervention agent.

"When I resumed office, as the Honorable commissioner for Energy, one of the first things I did on assumption of office as a very practical person, was to initiate the formulation of a detailed Energy policy, one which will empower individuals or cooperate bodies with financial capabilities, to come and build power generating plants in the state".

The policy paper once completed, will be sent to his Excellency Sen Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for onward transmission to the Delta State House of Assembly, as a Bill, in order for it to be debated upon by the House, and subsequently pass into law.

Following the above initiative of the Delta State Government, to partner with private individuals or cooperate bodies, with financial capabilities to build power generating plants, the Delta State Government, recently approved the construction of three Independent Power Plants(IPP), in addition to the 8.5 Megawatts already existing in Asaba, to be sited in three (3) different locations within the State, and different firms are already showing interest to partner with the State Government.

We have also discussed and agreed with BEDC, on the need to improve the power supply to Isoko and Kwale, by linking Kwale and others, to Ubiaruku and Abraka line, coming from Ameokpe as an interim measure, aimed at improving the light situation in Isoko and kwale, while working on the abandoned Isoko 132KVA power line from Delta 4, to be stepped down at Ozoro to give stable power supply to Isoko and Kwale Area.

"We have concluded plans to partner with BEDC through the CBN Gencos intervention initiative, initiated by CBN".

BEDC have been able to secure funding for the 132 KVA abandoned line to be completed within a shortest time frame, which will greatly improve the light situation of the state, when completed.

"We will continue to push, until we get it right for our people, through continuous engagement of all the critical stakeholders, Ukodhiko added".

Some of the dignitaries present during the annual conference were, HRM, Barr. Austin oghaijabor, the odiologbo of Ibrede, HRM Isaiah Isike Edekere1, the odiologbo of Olomoro, Chief Owhefere Job, representing the Okpuzo of owhe,
Prof. Chris Akpotu, IDU President,
High Chief Iduh Amadhe, IDU Patron, Dr. Barr. Paul Oweh, Commissioner representing Isoko ethnic nationality on the board of Desopadec, Sir. Ayodele Othihiwa, Rtd Justice Vincent Ofesi,
Hon. Peter Emaziye PhD, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on chieftaincy affairs to the Governor, Hon. Mike Ogwah, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on Political Matters to the Governor, among others.

Ukodhiko present a four days free medical outreach in Isoko!

As part of his humanitarian services, the Honorable commissioner for Energy, Delta State, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, is putting on a four days free medical outreach, in partnership with Isoko Health Professionals.

The free medical outreach, will run for two days in Oleh and two days in Ozoro.

22-23rd of December, at Oleh civic Centre, and 29-30th December, at Opute hall, Ozoro.

The Honorable Commissioner will be on ground to officially declare the programme open on Wednesday 22nd, December, 2021, at Oleh Civic Centre by 10:00am prompt.

Are you or any of your close family members or friends having any underlying health challenges?
While not take advantage of this medical outreach.

For further enquiries, please contact 07030561923.

Prof. Ukala was a special gift to Nigeria - Okowa

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, on Monday, paid glowing tributes to Prof. Samuel Ukala who died on September 13, this year at the age of 73, describing him as as special gift to Delta State and Nigeria.

The governor who was speaking at a one-day ceremony held in Asaba to celebrate the life and literary works of Prof. Ukala said the renowned playwright and Professor of Theatre Arts and Drama was a rare gem.

He disclosed that the deceased has immortalised himself with his unique literary works and the impacts he made in the lives of people, coupled with the fact that he was an asset to Delta State, Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

The Governor said he was emotionally pained by the demise of Prof. Ukala because of how dear the erudite scholar was to his family.

According to the governor, Prof. Ukala was many things to different persons, saying that he was a father figure as well as a friend to him.

He noted that the late Ukala, apart from serving as member of the State Advisory and Peace Building Council, was also, a member of the Project Implementation Committee for the establishment of the three new universities in the state.

While saying that, it was rather unfortunate that he did not live to see the first set of students of the new universities, Okowa noted that the late emeritus professor lived his life fighting for others and not self because he believed in equity, justice and fairness.

"Prof. Ukala lived his life fighting for others and not self because he believed in equity, justice and fairness.

"I wish that people would emulate these sterling qualities of his so that the society would be a better place for all.

"The late professor, had by his literary works, immortalized his name, as those works of his would live forever long after we are all gone," Okowa said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire who was represented by Revd. Prof. Oke Akokotu, said the exit of Prof. Ukala created a vacuum in the literary world and the Advisory Council of the State where he was a member till death.

On his part, the Chairman of the three new Universities Management Council, Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze said the deceased professor was outstanding in all assignments given to him, pointing out that working with him was an experience he will forever miss.

Other speakers at the event had testimonies to share about the legacies of late Ukala, Professor Emeritus.

A drama on 'Iredi War' written by the late professor was acted live at the event which featured fund raising for a foundation to immortalise him.

Owhe Leadership Forum Passes Confidence Vote On Okowa, Others

...As Ukodhiko plays host to forum

A social Political Group called Owhe leadership Forum (OLF) has passed a vote of confidence on Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko and Deacon Godwin Ogorugba.

The Forum expressed satisfaction over the Governor's leadership style, his smart agenda initiative and thanked the Governor for appointing an Owhe son Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko as member of the State executive council.

Owhe Leadership Forum which was hosted by the Honorable commissioner of Energy, Delta State, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ukodhiko, at his country home Erawha-Owhe in Isoko North Local Government Area on Sunday 19th December, 2021 discussed issues that concerns unity and progress of the Owhe clan.

The chairman of the forum, Sir Patrick Akporuno PhD, in his opening speech, gave an appraisal of some of the initiatives of the Forum, and enjoined members of the forum to be committed to the course of the forum, as the development of Owhe clan is not a one man affair, but a collective effort.

Pastor Ukodhiko, while speaking, thanked the people for their massive turn out, and the enormous support given to him since his assumption of office as the Honorable Commissioner for Energy, Delta State.

He noted that, Owhe Leadership Forum, "is one umbrella body, whose members, are at the forefront, rooting for the growth and development of Owhe clan, through concerted efforts of ensuring Owhe remained united towards a common course".

The Honorable Commissioner, also stressed on the importance of voter's registration, unity, and pleaded with the people to always promote activities that encourage peace and unity, remain committed to the party PDP.

The Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, in his brief exhortation, admonished the people to remain united, as the strength in unity cannot be overemphasised, and therefore encouraged people of Owhe clan to remain united in pursuit of their ambitions.

Other members of the Forum who spoke during the meeting, were Dcn. Prince Godwin Ogorugba, PDP Chairman, Isoko-North Chapter, Chief Sam Egwerome, Chief Owho Ovuakporie, President General of Owhelogbo Community, and Hon. Godwin Itobi were all for the unity and progress of the clan.

Meanwhile, Chief Owho Ovuakporie, president General, Owhelogbo Community while speaking, thanked Pastor Ukodhiko, for heeding the clarion call put to him by Owhelogbo Community, by providing Owhelogbo Police Division with a patrol Van, after series of efforts made to get the patrol van proved abortive.

The highpoint of the meeting, was the motion for a vote of confidence to be passed on the Governor of Delta State Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko, and Prince Godwin Ogorugba, by members of the forum, which was moved by Hon. Mike Ogwah, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on Political Matters to the Governor and seconded by Dr. Eric Oghounu, Senior Lecturer at Delsu, Abraka.

The motion for the vote of confidence, was put through parliamentary proceedings, presided over by Chief. Sam Egwerome, and put through a voice vote, and the yes had it.

A vote of confidence was also passed on Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, for his sharp political acumen, which has propelled him to national repute within a short period of his appointment.

Finally, a vote of confidence was passed on Prince Godwin Ogorugba, PDP Chairman Isoko-North, for his dogged leadership style in piloting the affairs of the party in the local government.

The meeting which was well attended, had personalities from all walks of life, namely political leaders, religious leaders, and community leaders.

Among other dignitaries present during the meeting were, Hon. Tutumor Daniel, Special Assistant, SA on Political Matters to the Governor, Capt. Igbuku, former Isoko North PDP chairman, Hon. Francis Udubra, Chief. Francis Ughegbe, Hon. Sunny Governor, Special Assistant, to the Governor, Mr. Sunny Ufuoma, Hon. GOT Itobi, Chief Evis Ovie, Sir Robert Ighosewe, Dame Dr. Mimi Igbrude, Chief Collumbus Abada, Capt. Reuben Ukuevo, Comr. John Onovroke, Comr. Ubido Oghenefegor, Engr. Festus Akponovo, Amb. Egwu Oghenero Alakpodia, Amb Omaduvie Sunday Oke-Oghene, Comr. Victor Onoriode Ovie and Oghounu, amongst others.

Ukodhiko join Elueni to return thanks to God.

The Honorable Commissioner for Energy, Delta State, Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, today, joined his SA, Pastor Sunday Elueni, in thanksgiving, at the Redeem Christian Church of God, RCCG Kingdom Life Parish, Ozoro, as Elueni returns all the glory and honor to God for his recent appointment.

The Thanksgiving service, which was in appreciation of God's favor, love and mercy over his life and family, coupled with his recent appointment as the SA to the Honorable Commissioner for Energy, was well attended by friends and family members.

Pastor Odili Emmanuel, Pastor in charge of Delta Province 15, in his sermon during the church service, admonished the congregation on the importance of giving Thanks to the Lord without season.

He therefore enjoined the congregation to always be grateful and thankful to God in all circumstances and at all times.

Among dignitaries that attended the church service with the Honorable commissioner, were Hon. Emmanuel Edevor, Former Chairman, Isoko-North LGA, Hon. Tutumor Daniel, SA to the Governor and a former PDP Chairman Isoko-North Chapter, Hon. Mike Ogwah, SSA to the Governor, Chief Amudede Matthew, Chief Nicholas Areh, former PG, Ozoro Kingdom, Engr. Joseph Oghenero Uyeri, Comr. Igbuku Emmanuel, among others.

Congratulations sir!

Ukodhiko congratulates Iteire at 60.

Birth anniversary celebration is an ancient tradition of birth day remembrance.

Today, I am joining the rest of the world and PDP Isoko-North Chapter, in congratulating my friend and elder brother, Hon. Dcn. Christian Iteire, the Executive Chairman of Isoko North LGA, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary celebration.

Hon. Iteire is a budding political phenomenon with a blend of affability, whose political policies and robust welfare packages for workers of Isoko-North LGA, despite being in their nascent stages, has won him admiration and commendation from all and sundry.

My friend, your administration has ushered in a new aura of excitement amongst the council's staff of Isoko North LGA, as your programmes and man management style, mesmerises the staffers.

I pray for you on the occasion of your birth anniversary that God should continue to strengthen you and shower you with good health, to enable you continue as a pace setter among your contemporaries.

Congratulations and best wishes my friend!

Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, Honorable Commissioner For Energy, Delta State.

Ukodhiko meets with PDP elites from owhe clan.

Yesterday Dec. 12th, 2021, the Hon. Commissioner for Energy, Delta State, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, in continuation of his mission, dubbed Building Bridges of unity within our great party PDP, Isoko-North Chapter, meets with some PDP elites of owhe clan in his country home, in Erawha Owhe.

The meeting which was like an interactive session, had in attendance, a large number of party faithfuls, especially those that are in the age blanket of quinquagenarian and below.

Pastor Ukodhiko, in his opening remark, after the opening prayer, and observation of the traditional rites, started by quoting one of Dr. Martin Luther Kings Jr. quotes, where he succinctly captured it, "The Time is always right to do what is right" and today, we are here to do what is right by seeking to Build Bridges of Unity.

No nation or ethnic group, no matter how large in terms of their numerical numbers, without unity, can not achieve their political goals.

Owhe clan is one of the biggest clans in Isoko, which equal political strength, but this strength can only be effectively utilised, if we are united politically.

I beseech you today my brothers and sisters, party leaders that are here with me today, let us shun politics of strife and bitterness, fueled by personal ambitions, without recourse to the interests of the people of the clan, which have precipitated into political disunity among us,

Yes, we may differ in opinions and political ideologies, you may be a member of an opposition political party, it doesn't make us enemies as we are brothers before politics, bonded by the ancestral cold of our founders, Azagba and Owhe.

I want to encourage us to imbibe the spirit of unity, as there are enormous benefits in working together in unity, Ukodhiko added.

The Honorable Commissioner noted that, the easiest way to bring development to our people, is through government interventions, as no man can do it all on his own, no matter how worthy or influential you are; am therefore seizing this opportunity to appeal to us to remain united, and continue to support the Gov. Okowa's administration, as he is committed to finishing strong and better.

We all know our amiable Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi okowa, is a God fearing man and a devout Christian, whose developmental strides abounds in the State.

I strongly believe as we enter into the periods preceding the 2023 politics, where intensive negotiations will be taking place, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, is already seeking the face of God on his successor, someone who will be saddled with the responsibility of building on the existing developmental legacies of Okowa administration, and we are waiting for his directives on where to go in 2023 once direction have been shown to him by God.

Responding on behalf of the people, Gen. Ogbaudu Omoefe, and others who spoke in the same vein, thanked the Honorable commissioner, for taking this bold step of reawakening the spirit of unity among us the owhe people, a political trait that distinguishes the owhe people in the past, which have eluded us in recent times, and have made us weak.

They said some of the issues causing pockets of disunity here and there in the clan, were caused by some of the party leaders whom because of their inordinate ambitions, started pursuing self agenda, against the owhe agenda.

The people unanimously agreed to work with Pastor Ukodhiko and other party leaders, towards promoting unity in owhe clan PDP, after exhaustively deliberating on some of the issues raised by the elites that were present.

Prince Godwin Ogorugba, the PDP Chairman, Isoko-North Chapter, Hon. Mike Ogwah, Hon. Richie Isagba, Hon. Tutumor Daniel, Avura Emeakpor amongst other leaders who spoke during the meeting, emphasises on the importance of owhe clan PDP, working together in unity, and stressed on the need for us to be united politically ahead of 2023 General elections.

Iyede: Ukodhiko visits Adheke, preach peace and unity.

Today, the Honorable commissioner for Energy, Delta State, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, accompanied by Barr. Dr. Paul Oweh, Commissioner representing Isoko ethnic nationality on the board of Desopadec, Hon. Peter Emaziye (PhD), amongst other dignitaries, visited the respected Chief Adheke Philip, former Chairman, Isoko-North LGA, at his country home in Eboh Iyede.

The Honorable Commissioner, who is also a pastor in the Redeem Christian Church of God, is on a mission to build bridges of Unity in our party (PDP), Isoko-North Chapter.

Pastor Ukodhiko, while speaking after the traditional ritual of presenting and breaking of kola nut, said Hon. Phillips Adheke is one of the foundational members of the PDP in Isoko North, and commended him for his political sagacity and consistency which has lasted over two decades.

I am here today sir, to appeal to you to join me on a peace building mission, towards uniting all the factions within our great party (PDP), Isoko North Chapter.

Faction is a bane to our common development and progress, as no group or nation can attain their full political potentials with factions.

With you with me on this mission sir, my job will be made easy, as your wealth of experience as a grassroot politician and a founding member of the party, will be of great value to me and by extension, help in promoting unity within our party, in a bid to foster peace, Ukodhiko stated.

Hon. Adheke while responding, said leadership failure and greedy desires to cling to power by successive politicians at the expense of others, led to the division and factions within our party, and thanked pastor Ukodhiko for taking it upon himself to build bridges of unity, towards promoting peace within our party.

He said that he's convinced that Pastor Ukodhiko is a gentleman and a lover of peace, whose intentions are genuine, but warned him against hijackers and political sycophants, whose jobs are to feed fat from the system at the detriment of others.

He assured the Honorable commissioner that he will join hands with him and other leaders of the party, to build bridges of unity within the party PDP, to make the party stronger and better, while positioning the party for great victory ahead of 2023 general elections.

Peace and unity are sacred ointments that serves as a moisturisers to our development, therefore, we must encourage those that genuinely seeks it, Hon. Adheke added.

IKODUDU KINGSLEY.

Egware celebrates Izeze on birth anniversary

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Media, Comrade Nelson Egware has congratulated Member representing Ughelli South State Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Comrade Reuben Izeze on his birth anniversary on Dec. 3.

Egware in a congratulatory message to the astute lawmaker, he described Izeze as a man of the people and a loyal friend of all times.

He said that the activist turned politician has done well for humanity by making life more meaningful for many including himself.

Egware remarked that the story of his political and journalism career could not be told without a great mention of the contributions of Comrade Izeze.

"Happy birth anniversary to my big brother and leader, Comrade Reuben Izeze,

"Izeze is a trained Engineer and Lawyer, who has impacted several lives positively both in public and private sectors.

"The story of my political and journalism career cannot be told without the great contributions of Comrade Izeze.

"My dear leader and big brother, you personally inspired me and pushed behind the scenes in high places to support my career.

"Looking back, i hope you are proud of the Nelson Egware you mentored since 2012.

"As you turn a year older today, it is my prayer and that of many Nigerians and Deltans, that the good Lord will continue to bless you and your family with good health and imbue you with greater wisdom to continue in your quest to make life better for humanity.

"Congratulations big brother and mentor!"

Ifeajika urges eligible voters in Oshimili North to register

Sons and daughters of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta at home and in the diaspora that are 18 years and above have been called upon to leverage on the ongoing online registration of eligible voters by INEC to enable them choose those who will lead them in future elections.

The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika made the call in his office on Thursday when he played host to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) women leaders from the local government area.

Mr. Ifeajika said that he was happy with the peace that had returned to the party in the area, stressing that it was through registration of eligible voters that the area could maintain its remarkable support to the PDP.

He disclosed that the local government had remained a strong hold of the party, emphasising that the development, empowerment and appointments that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa had attracted to the area would make them redouble their loyalty and unflinching support to his administration.

"The Oshimili North Local Government Area Woman Leader and the women leaders in the various wards are doing well. I am glad with what their leadership is doing in Oshimili North.

"We are proud of our women in Oshimili North. They fully mobilised support for the PDP during the last local government election in the state.

"We should continue to preach peace by promoting peaceful co-existence. I won't want us to disappoint the governor who had done so well for us.

"The ongoing registration of eligible voters by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is an important exercise that we should embrace particularly, those that have not been registered before or those who have issues with their voters cards.

"I want to also use this opportunity to remind us about the ongoing PDP e-registration exercise and to say that it is equally important for us, as PDP members, to key into the exercise," Mr. Ifeajika said.

The CPS thanked the women for the visit, the gifts presented to him and their resolve to work for the party, even as he assured them that the Okowa led administration was irrevocably committed to fulfilling its electioneering campaign promises to Deltans.

Earlier, the Oshimili North PDP Woman Leader, Mrs. Grace Odiakaose said that they were in the CPS office to thank him for being a good ambassador of the local government and for the impact he had made since his appointment as spokesman to the governor.

Mrs. Odiakaose said that they were impressed with the human capital and infrastructural development the present administration had executed in the local government area and pledged their continued support for the PDP.

Highlight of the visit was presentation of gift items to Mr. Ifeajika by the women.