₦airaland Forum

KEHINDE OBAREH TASKS FG, PRIVATE SECTOR ACTORS, OTHERS ON FEMALE BOXING, GIRL CHILD EDUCATION

Highly accomplished Nigerian female boxer, multi-medal champion and sports advocate, Kehinde Joy Obareh, on Sunday urged the federal, state and local governments to pay special attention to the education of the girl child and the health of women in the country.

‘’The government, especially highly placed women in government and the private sector, can join hands in uplifting the girl child’’.

She also expressed the belief that destiny had linked her with boxing and pledged to contribute to the growth of female boxing in Nigeria and the world as a whole.

The 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show is an additional boost to the country’s development in boxing and the hunt for talents among home-based female boxers.

Obareh, who spoke during the 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, promised to make the dreams of 24 female boxers a reality.

She advised the young boxers to be focused and resilient in their boxing and educational careers.

Widely recognized as one of Africa’s best in the 60 kg weight division, Obareh was the first Nigerian female boxer to win a Gold medal at the All African Games, and Gold also at the African Female Boxing Championship in Cameroon. She was ranked 8th in the world at her prime. She emphasized strength, courage, faith and commitment as qualities that would guarantee success for the next generation of female boxers in Nigeria.

The kick-boxer further urged women to use their skills, energy and resources to contribute to the peace and development of Nigeria.

Some of the boxers performances gave officials reason to smile.

Gafar Fathia, Adepoju Roqueebat, Adeniji Aliyah, Sodipe Damilola, Ismail Abibat, Sadiku Tomiwa, Obiora Ada, Akanni Anuoluwa, Agboola Oyindamola, Adeyinka Abigail and Kareem Sukura won gold

Lasisi Nurat, Adeshina Aishat, Solanke Ramot, Ejeh Precilia, Kazeem Fathia, Jinadu Hikmot, Oluwafemi Oluwanifemi, Oyeleye Taiwo, Adepoju Taofikat, Adebisi Adenike and Olalekan Opeyemi won silver

Adegboyega Princess and Ibrahim Zainab received exhibition prizes

JUDICIARY NOT AN INSTRUMENT FOR LEGITIMIZING POLITICAL SHORTCUTS, SAYS FERIFE

· CALLS NDC’S PREDICAMENT SELF-INFLICTED

· CONDEMNS PARTY FOR IGNORING INTERNAL DEMOCRATIC PROCESSES

· URGES OTHER PARTIES TO RESPECT CONSTITUTION, ELECTORAL ACT, INEC'S GUIDELINES

Prominent Nigerian clergyman, legal scholar and political advocate, Very Rev. Fr. Benedict Ferife, on Sunday described the reported Federal High Court judgment setting aside the registration of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as a self-inflicted wound.

"Democracy is sustained not by public sympathy or media narratives but by strict obedience to the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the rules governing political parties. The NDC's present predicament is, sadly, not persecution. It is a self-inflicted wound’’.

In a statement titled ‘’NDC'S self-inflicted wounds: Why due process matters in democracy’’, Ferife lamented that the NDC found itself seeking judicial intervention instead of ensuring full compliance with INEC's constitutional and statutory requirements.

‘’Courts exist to interpret and enforce the law—not to rescue political parties from the consequences of their own procedural failures’’

Ferife said the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) ‘’is supreme and its provisions have binding force on all authorities and persons throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria’’.

‘’Section 1(2) declares: "The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed, nor shall any person or group of persons take control of the Government of Nigeria or any part thereof, except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution’’

According to him, no political party is above the law.

‘’Even more troubling are reports that the party ignored internal democratic processes by allegedly issuing tickets to persons who neither participated in nor emerged victorious in validly conducted primaries. If established, such actions amount to a direct affront to the Electoral Act’’.

He went on: ‘’Section 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022 requires political parties to nominate candidates through democratically conducted primaries, while Sections 82 and 83 require prior notification to INEC and empower the Commission to monitor those primaries. These provisions are not mere technicalities; they are legal safeguards against impunity and candidate imposition. Similarly, Section 223 of the Constitution requires political parties to operate according to democratic principles. Democracy must begin within the political party before it can be preached to the nation.

He blamed the woes that befell the party on its national leadership.

‘’One cannot ignore due process during party primaries, impose candidates, sideline legitimate aspirants, and later seek the protection of the courts when the consequences of those actions become apparent. The judiciary is a guardian of the law—not an instrument for legitimizing political shortcuts’’.

The transparency promoter said the leadership of the NDC ignored due process.

‘’If the NDC ultimately loses the opportunity to sponsor candidates in forthcoming elections, including any presidential candidate, the responsibility lies first with those who ignored due process. Political convenience can never replace constitutional compliance. This episode should serve as a warning to every political party in Nigeria’’.

Known for his theological writings and strong involvement in Nigerian democratic advocacy, Ferife urged political parties in the country to respect the Constitution, the Electoral Act, INEC's guidelines, and internal party democracy.

‘’Respect for the Constitution, the Electoral Act, INEC's guidelines, and internal party democracy is not optional—it is mandatory. The rule of law is impartial. It neither rewards popularity nor excuses procedural recklessness. Political parties that sow disregard for due process should not be surprised when they reap legal consequences.

24 FEMALE BOXERS STEP INTO RING AS KEHINDE JOY OBAREH BOXING SHOW BEGINS IN LAGOS

Hundreds of Nigerians are expected to see some of the country’s most talented female boxers on Sunday in Lagos.

‘’The 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show is expected to bring so many people to the National Stadium, Surulere on Sunday, June 28, 2026’’ a statement by kehinde Joy Obareh said Friday morning.

Tagged ‘’She fights, She wins’’, the women's boxing competition, according to the organizers, is to give back to the community, give hope to the less privileged female boxers and create more awareness about female boxing to the sporting world.

24 boxers will take part in the 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show when the action gets underway from 2pm at Brai Ayonote Gym, National Stadium, Surulere.

The boxers include Gafar Fathia (Crown B/C), Adeshina Zainab (Owonikoko B/C), Adepoju Rokibat (Shaku B/C), Adeshina Aishat (LASU B/C), Ajayi Nimotallah (Aso Rock B/C), Adeniji Aliyat (Blessed B/C), Adegboega Princess (Always B/C), Zainab Ibrahim (Segun Body B/C), Idowu Busao ( NPF B/C), Bibiloye Kabirat (Supreme B/C), Bonu Pesu (LASU B/C), Lawal Fathia (Biggest B/C), Anuoluwapo Akanni (Alwas B/C) and Kazeem Fathia (Mass Kenny).

Other boxers that will be competing include Sodipe Damilola ( A-King B/C), Ismail Abibat (Always B/C) , Olubuade Fridaus (Oluomo (B/C), Oluwafemi Oluwanifemi ( Crown B/C), Sodiq Tomiwa (Tiger 2 B/C), Ejeh Peculliar (Gao Star B/C), Adebisi Adenike (Biggest B/C), Adeinka Abigael (Brightess B/C) , Kareem Shukurat (Brightess B/C) and Oinkansola Kehinde (Morgan B/C).

Joy Obareh began her boxing journey at the age of 15 in Ketu, Lagos, Nigeria, and has since built a dynamic and accomplished career in boxing and kickboxing, representing Nigeria at numerous national and international events.

Over the years, she earned multiple medals, awards, and recognitions, including being ranked among the top female boxers globally.

The Apolo Grammar School and Ebenezer Noble Comprehensive College ex-student recently completed Advanced Diploma Boxing Coaching Course and Bronze Coaching Certificate in the United States.

Currently studying Business Administration at Southern New Hampshire University, USA, Obareh has fought over 100 fights and participated in several boxing competitions in Nigeria and abroad.

24 FEMALE BOXERS STEP INTO RING AS KEHINDE JOY OBAREH BOXING SHOW BEGINS IN LAGOS

Hundreds of Nigerians are expected to see some of the country’s most talented female boxers on Sunday in Lagos.

‘’The 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show is expected to bring so many people to the National Stadium, Surulere on Sunday, June 28, 2026’’ a statement by kehinde Joy Obareh said Friday morning.

Tagged ‘’She fights, She wins’’, the women's boxing competition, according to the organizers, is to give back to the community, give hope to the less privileged female boxers and create more awareness about female boxing to the sporting world.

24 boxers will take part in the 1st Kehinde Obareh Female Boxing Show when the action gets underway from 2pm at Brai Ayonote Gym, National Stadium, Surulere.

The boxers include Gafar Fathia (Crown B/C), Adeshina Zainab (Owonikoko B/C), Adepoju Rokibat (Shaku B/C), Adeshina Aishat (LASU B/C), Ajayi Nimotallah (Aso Rock B/C), Adeniji Aliyat (Blessed B/C), Adegboega Princess (Always B/C), Zainab Ibrahim (Segun Body B/C), Idowu Busao ( NPF B/C), Bibiloye Kabirat (Supreme B/C), Bonu Pesu (LASU B/C), Lawal Fathia (Biggest B/C), Anuoluwapo Akanni (Alwas B/C) and Kazeem Fathia (Mass Kenny).

Other boxers that will be competing include Sodipe Damilola ( A-King B/C), Ismail Abibat (Always B/C) , Olubuade Fridaus (Oluomo (B/C), Oluwafemi Oluwanifemi ( Crown B/C), Sodiq Tomiwa (Tiger 2 B/C), Ejeh Peculliar (Gao Star B/C), Adebisi Adenike (Biggest B/C), Adeinka Abigael (Brightess B/C) , Kareem Shukurat (Brightess B/C) and Oinkansola Kehinde (Morgan B/C).

Joy Obareh began her boxing journey at the age of 15 in Ketu, Lagos, Nigeria, and has since built a dynamic and accomplished career in boxing and kickboxing, representing Nigeria at numerous national and international events.

Over the years, she earned multiple medals, awards, and recognitions, including being ranked among the top female boxers globally.

The Apolo Grammar School and Ebenezer Noble Comprehensive College ex-student recently completed Advanced Diploma Boxing Coaching Course and Bronze Coaching Certificate in the United States.

Currently studying Business Administration at Southern New Hampshire University, USA, Obareh has fought over 100 fights and participated in several boxing competitions in Nigeria and abroad.

IGNORANCE AND POVERTY: THE PROBLEMS WITH DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA BY DR AUSTIN ORETTE

We have reasons to celebrate this year's Democracy Day and reasons to be downcast. We are survivors and this darkness shall also pass. June 12 is a day that the Lord made for us. It was fought for and bled for by our forebears. We should take time to reflect on this day and ask basic questions. Do we owe any allegiance to those who died in this quest? The answer is yes. What is democracy to us? Are we ready to fight and bleed for our democracy? Are we ready to fight for justice, freedom and rule of law?

If we are, we must define our democracy in Nigeria. We must shout from the rooftops to let anyone know that this struggle for democracy and the rule of law is what will define us as free people.

Are we really free? The answer is no. For democracy to be solidly planted, we must remove all vestiges of any limitations to our collective aspirations. We can only say we are free when the people governing us have the consent of the governed, under the rule law. The present leaders behave like coup plotters. The military bequeathed this to us.

We have a chance and duty to vote them out of power. They should leave government and enjoy the economy and the security they created. This is democracy. Incumbent should never be allowed to feel entitled to any position, when their performance is zero.

We are not free when we are chained down by ignorance. We are not free when we are handcuffed by poverty and diseases that the leaders use as a weapon to keep us gullible. We are not free when we are afraid to protect our stake in this commonwealth called Nigeria.

Of all the different types of government that exist, democracy is the most difficult to practice. This is because it requires citizens’ participation. We are here today because of the intellectual laziness of a majority of our citizens. They either refuse to vote or they sold their votes.

Unenlightened citizens cannot participate in this process. The vote of ignorant people is a danger to democracy. Their votes are mined to keep in place oppressive polices that have destroyed our ability to dream as a collective people, who want to move forward.

One is amazed by how much a lot of people don’t know about our system of governance. Majority of people shouting themselves hoarse don’t even know how their local government operate and they have never attempted to attend such meetings because they don’t know and they have no curiosity in this respect. They don’t know their members in the House of Assemblies. A lot of people don’t even know they can go to the House of Assembly and watch proceedings of those they elected to represent them.

At this moment, some people still think the governors are appointed by the President. I wouldn’t blame them considering the behavior of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. He is always running to Abuja for photo up with the president.

We should also attempt to learn more about the Judiciary by going to observe proceedings at the courts.

Unless we do these things to educate ourselves and our people, we will always see democracy as an abstract concept. When things go awry, we will not reflexively call President Bola Tinubu and unknowingly give cover to non-performing state legislators. We should hold the state assemblies, senators and House of Representatives members accountable.

Our continuous bellowing Tinubu shows we don’t know the kind of government we are practicing. This lacuna could have been filled if we have responsible people in power, individuals who will teach the people their civic responsibility in a democracy.

As democrats, we must engage the voters and make them participate in their governance. They cannot do this without knowledge, and they will become willing tools in the hands of tyrants and criminals who want to perpetuate themselves in power. This is the only process that will weed out autocratic and tyrannical leaders in a democratic society.

Knowledge of how we run our affairs is the antidote to the abuse of power that is personified by the NDC leadership.

The journey to freedom, Justice and the rule of law must be embarked on with knowledge and sincerity of purpose. Nigerian politicians are allergic to knowledge and are willing to spend any amount to perpetuate ignorance. It is our responsibility to stop them from using us as fertilizer for their greed and corruption.

We have collectively failed our nation by helping to elect imposters. We must use our knowledge as a weapon to dispel ignorance, instead of using it for sycophancy.

We must stop them. The journey of democracy is perpetual vigilance.

AUSTIN ORETTE, A SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, WRITES FROM OWHELOGBO IN ISOKO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA.

ENTREPRENEURS, TOP GOVERNMENT FUNCTIONARIES, OTHERS STORM DELTA STATE FOR TUNDE AGANBI’S FINAL RITES

· RELATIVES, CLOSE FRIENDS ARRIVE KOKO

A large gathering of dignitaries from the corporate, political, and traditional institutions will on Friday, June 26, 2026 witness the burial and bid final farewell to Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, a man widely recognized for his leadership and his massive contributions to the business community and the Itsekiri nation.

‘’The remains of prominent Nigerian businessman, community leader and a respected Board of Trustees member for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, will be laid to rest on Friday in his hometown of Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State’’ a statement from the respected family of Sir Stephen Aganbi – a well-known Second Republic politician, lawyer and Bible translator said on Wednesday in Koko.

A firm leader and institutional builder, Elder Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 73, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

The statement issued by the Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon. Felix Aganbi, praised Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi for working tirelessly to keep the community and the family united

According to the statement, the burial rites of Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, will begin from June 25 to June 27 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

‘’Service of songs will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at the Christiana Hall, Koko. An Open-Air Service and interment will take place on Friday, June 26, 2027 at Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club while a Memorial Golf Tournament and Traditional Rites are scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026 in Koko’’ the statement said.

The statement also praised the late businessman for a life rooted in accountability, fairness, humility and compassion.

Tunde Aganbi for burial June 26 in Koko

Prominent Nigerian community leader, businessman, and Board of Trustees (BOT) member for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, will be laid to rest on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko.

A member of the respected family of Sir Stephen Aganbi—a well-known Second Republic politician, lawyer, and Bible translator, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 73, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

The family in a statement on Monday celebrated his unique leadership style, high moral values, and generous spirit.

The statement issued by Akogate Group Chief Executive Officer, Hon Felix Aganbi, remembered Elder Tunde Aganbi as a key figure who worked tirelessly to keep his community and family united.

"Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi made immense contributions to the growth of the Itsekiri nation and Nigeria's business community"

A highly active and dependable leader in the management of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, the statement appreciated Elder Tunde Aganbi for his kindness, wise guidance, and affection for children.

Elder Tunde Aganbi will be buried on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko.

"A service of songs will take place on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Christiana Aganbi Hall in Koko while a golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026 in Koko" the statement added.

Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club BOT member, Tunde Aganbi, for burial June 26

Prominent Nigerian community leader, businessman, and Board of Trustees (BOT) member for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, will be laid to rest on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko.

A member of the respected family of Sir Stephen Aganbi—a well-known Second Republic politician, lawyer, and Bible translator, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 73, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

The family in a statement on Monday celebrated his unique leadership style, high moral values, and generous spirit.

The statement issued by Akogate Group Chief Executive Officer, Hon Felix Aganbi, remembered Elder Tunde Aganbi as a key figure who worked tirelessly to keep his community and family united.

"Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi made immense contributions to the growth of the Itsekiri nation and Nigeria's business community"

A highly active and dependable leader in the management of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, the statement appreciated Elder Tunde Aganbi for his kindness, wise guidance, and affection for children.

Elder Tunde Aganbi will be buried on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko.

"A service of songs will take place on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Christiana Aganbi Hall in Koko while a golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026 in Koko" the statement added.

Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi to be buried in hometown on Friday, June 26, 2026

The remains of Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi will be buried in his Koko hometown in Delta State, a top member of the family said Monday morning.

A younger brother to the late respected member of the board of trustees for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club man, Hon. Felix Aganbi, confirmed this to news men in Koko.

Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

Felix Aganbi said the burial of Elder Aganbi would come up on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

He praised Elder Tunde Aganbi for his contributions to the Itsekiri nation and the business community.

He also applauded Elder Aganbi for his unique leadership style, deep commitment to the community and untiring efforts at building and sustaining the unity of the family.

"Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi served God and humanity to the end"

The funeral program, according to the family will kick off with a Service of Songs on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Christiana Aganbi Hall, Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club.

"An Open-Air Service and interment will follow on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Canaan land Golf Course and Country Club while a memorial golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area" he added.

AUSTIN ORETTE REBUKES NDC LEADERS, TELLS PETER OBI TO SEEK RESIDENCE ELSEWHERE

Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, was on Friday told to seek residence elsewhere.

‘’Mr. Peter Obi should be made to understand that he has moved to a burning house and he should seek residence somewhere else. The NDC is a setup of corrupt and crooked politicians who are seeking to use his name to seek relevance. He must leave before dawn. This house is on fire’’.

Delta South NDC Senatorial Candidate, Dr. Austin Orette, gave the advice in Owhelogbo, Isoko North Local Government Area.

‘’Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are. Peter Obi must not allow himself to be used to give aroma to the stench that NDC is brewing’’.

Frowning at what he called threat to lives and democratic process, Orette said Nigerians should never grant any iota of legitimacy to reprobates in Abuja.

‘’All the ills from insecurity to perennial poverty are as a result of the corruption of the ballot box as personified by the likes of the NDC leadership. If we are to cure these ills, we must remove these reprobates as leaders in our country’’.

In a statement titled ‘’NDC leadership, corruption and threat to democratic process’’ Orette said the winners of the party’s primaries were being made to suspect ulterior motives on the part of the national officials because of their refusal to release the results.

‘’Whatever decision the leaders of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) are brewing must never be allowed to stand because it is a conspiracy against the people. Under normal circumstances, primary election results are released and candidates are enabled to start the campaign for the general elections. What the NDC is doing thwarts this process and is counter to logic’’.

He lashed out at the national leaders of the party for constituting themselves into cogs in the wheel of progress in Nigeria.

‘’The leadership of the NDC has become outlaws and has become a criminal enterprise. The leaders must resign. They lack the capacity to lead. No one has the right to keep the citizens in the dark in a democracy. The current leaders of NDC must go. They are anti-democratic. They are everything that Nigeria does not need at this time. They do not have the right to withhold the results of an election’’.

Orette, apparently angry, vowed to expose the wrongdoing of the leaders in court.

‘’What NDC leadership has done is criminal. They have violated the Electoral Act. I will be taking my case to court and the criminality will be established’’.

He said he was not satisfied with the explanation given by the national leaders of the party.

‘’Democracy dies in silence. No one has the right to truncate the will of the people no matter how highly placed. Leaders should be made to understand that they cannot run roughshod over people in a democracy. No one who has behaved the way these folks have done should be allowed to rear their heads near corridors of power in any civilized society. It is the tolerance of this kind of behavior that has made Nigeria the laughing stock of Nations around the world and the most corrupt country in the world’’.

He advised Nigerians not to tolerate criminality in high places.

‘’We should never tolerate criminality in high places. This is why we suffer. This is why a majority of Nigerians think corruption is normal and normalized of the Nigerian existence. These people have continued to violate our sacred obligations to each other. This nullification must not be allowed to stand. Any concession to this brigandage is surrender to perpetual slavery and tyranny under a click who worship at the altar of Baal. It is this process of decadence that brought all the ills we decry today to Nigeria’’.

He also urged the party leaders to divest themselves of the toga of criminality they are wearing.

‘’It is my people who are sending me to Abuja. Abuja has no business to pick a leader contrary to the wishes of my people. All these so-called leaders must divest themselves of the toga of criminality they are wearing. If Peter Obi keeps silent in the face of this tyranny, it means the man in him has died and he has no right to ascend to the presidency. The good people of Delta South people must know this perfidy is the reason why there is no measurable development in our region. All those selected have no allegiance to the people of Delta south. This is why they forget the electorate as soon as they are sworn in. Their loyalty is to their godfathers in Abuja and they want nothing to do with the people of the region until another four years when they come back to resume their Ponzi scheme in the name of another rigged elections’’.

Chris Iyovwaye’s governorship bid receives backing

· Surprise awaits APC, says Akpederin

· Insists Deltans living in squalor, deprivation on all fronts

Prominent Delta lawyer, Kingsley Akpederin, on Monday said Chris Iyovwaye’s quest for the Government House Asaba is to usher Delta State into a glorious dawn.

‘’We thank God that Deltans now have the opportunity to get a Governor that would drastically move from the trajectory of the recent past. Deltans with Chris Iyovwaye will now know how a state government can get back their ailing or dead industries so jobs would be surplus. Deltans would soon generate and distribute their own electricity that is affordable. And with Chris Iyovwaye, the state would be an interested player in securing every part of the state with a vibrant Forest Guard (among other security plans) that protects all forests and farmlands of the state including all areas which appear to be ungoverned’’.

He also described the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), governorship candidate as the surprise package of the 2027 elections in Delta State

‘’In 2023, many political pundits dismissed Peter Obi. They labeled his support as just social media based. Now, there is hardly any move that the ruling party makes today that is not influenced by the pole position of Peter Obi. Many Deltans do not know Deacon Chris Iyovwaye. But those around the Peter Obi Movement otherwise known as the Obidient Movement have known him from 2023 as a bulwark in Delta State in the struggle to do things differently in Nigeria led by Peter Obi. That was why without so much noise, he became the front runner in the contest for the governorship ticket of the platform of Peter Obi and associates. In the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), he is known all over Nigeria. Whoever therefore does not take the candidacy of Deacon Chris Iyovwaye seriously should better think again and prepare to realign with him as he would soon prove to be the surprise package of the 2027 Elections in Delta State’’

Akpederin told journalists in Asaba that the masses under a free and fair election will reject the ruling party in Delta State.

‘’Deacon Chris Iyovwaye and his teaming supporters will create an upset in the coming elections in Delta State. As Omo Agege, Victor Ochie, Prof. Pat Utomi, Dr. Austin Orette, and several other progressive political leaders stand firmly with Deacon Chris, who is positioned to mobilize the vast majority of the youths and women of the state, he is surely the candidate to beat in the coming elections in Delta State. Some analysts, especially of the ruling party, limit themselves to the past. They are oblivious of the fact that many Deltans have been regretting the absence of a strong candidate that represents a departure from how things have been done in Delta State’’.

He said the majority of the people are groaning under the heavy burden of poverty.

‘’How can the ultimate performance or report card of the government of a state that has allocations from the Federation Account that is four times what most other states receive, be roads and a few bridges? How can a state whose internally generated revenue is thrice or more of most other states pay the same minimum wage to its workers as other states when the cost of living in Delta State is far higher than that of most other states?

According to Akpederin, the people of Delta State have appeared like strangers in their own land for a long time now.

‘’The National leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress did not find it difficult to concur with the overwhelming decision of the membership of the party in Delta State that voted nearly one way for Deacon Chris Iyovwaye to be the gubernatorial flag bearer of the party in Delta State. This is because Deacon Chris has been prepared to lead the Delta people's takeover of their state. For a long time now, the people of Delta State have appeared like strangers in their own land. Poverty has made the vast majority of the people of Delta State to be low in confidence in speaking about the affairs of their state. But now, with Deacon Chris, many people would soon come out of the trenches to demand to take their state back. Now that the good people of Delta State have this kind of a selfless but fully prepared personality to serve them, their spirit rises for action. For how prepared Deacon Chris is, in a few weeks, most Deltans will start feeling the fresh air that this specially incubated and prepared personality will bring’’.

Akpederin lamented the cost of servicing numerous godfathers and political old horses.

‘’Deacon Chris Iyovwaye is fully prepared for the task of resetting Delta State. He is prepared to take the state from the firm grip of numerous godfathers and political old horses that are serviced with a huge chunk of what the state gets from both Federation Account Allocation and internally generated revenue. He is prepared to get the wealth of Delta State for the benefit of the people by industrializing the state and building infrastructure that would support agriculture, manufacturing and the state economy generally. We cannot be a rich state and yet have the people living in squalor and deprivation on all fronts’’.

TUNDE AGANBI FOR BURIAL AT KOKO

The remains of Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi will be buried in his Koko hometown in Delta State, a top member of the family said Monday morning.

A younger brother to the late respected member of the board of trustees for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club man, Hon. Felix Aganbi, confirmed this to news men in Koko.

Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

Felix Aganbi said the burial of Elder Aganbi would come up on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

He praised Elder Tunde Aganbi for his contributions to the Itsekiri nation and the business community.

He also applauded Elder Aganbi for his unique leadership style, deep commitment to the community and untiring efforts at building and sustaining the unity of the family.

"Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi served God and humanity to the end"

The funeral program, according to the family will kick off with a Service of Songs on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Christiana Aganbi Hall, Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club.

"An Open-Air Service and interment will follow on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Canaan land Golf Course and Country Club while a memorial golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area" he added.

TUNDE AGANBI FOR BURIAL AT KOKO

The remains of Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi will be buried in his Koko hometown in Delta State, a top member of the family said Monday morning.

A younger brother to the late respected member of the board of trustees for the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club man, Hon. Felix Aganbi, confirmed this to news men in Koko.

Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja, just a few weeks before his 74th birthday.

Felix Aganbi said the burial of Elder Aganbi would come up on Friday, June 26, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

He praised Elder Tunde Aganbi for his contributions to the Itsekiri nation and the business community.

He also applauded Elder Aganbi for his unique leadership style, deep commitment to the community and untiring efforts at building and sustaining the unity of the family.

"Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi served God and humanity to the end"

The funeral program, according to the family will kick off with a Service of Songs on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Christiana Aganbi Hall, Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club.

"An Open-Air Service and interment will follow on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Canaan land Golf Course and Country Club while a memorial golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2026 in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area" he added.

Uduaghan distances self from "focus more on kitchen duties" story

The Alema of Warri, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, has distanced himself from a story credited to him by Daily Post Media.

Uduaghan in a statement in Abigborodo accused the newspaper of spreading misinformation, misleading readers and attempting to damage his reputation.

‘’I have so much respect for the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. I also know her importance in the country’’

The Warri High Chief stressed on accurate attribution and responsible journalism.

‘’Journalism is the practice of the art of the specific. I have no connection with that video and news story’’

Uduaghan promised to lodge a lawsuit over false attribution.

He also asked the management of Daily Post Media to immediately pull down the news story or update it with the proper attribution.

ABUJA FEVER: A DISEASE OF POWER, GREED, AND POLITICAL MANIPULATION BY DR AUSTIN ORETTE

Since the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election of May 29, I have been ruminating on one troubling question: Why are party officials withholding the results of the primary election? Whose interests are these leaders serving?

It is wrong to keep the people in darkness. Democracy is founded on transparency, accountability, and respect for the will of the people. In a true democracy, the collective choice of citizens must prevail over the pecuniary interests of an elitist minority.

During my reflections, I arrived at a disturbing observation. Since the advent of the present democratic dispensation, it has become increasingly rare for an incumbent to lose an election, regardless of poor performance. This statistical anomaly suggests that, in many cases, what takes place in Nigeria is not an election but a selection.

These selections have produced a class of individuals who accumulate enormous power at the expense of the very people who voted for them. Elections have increasingly become cultural rituals in which the will of the people is subordinated to the whims of a privileged few. These individuals have evolved into political godfathers who trample upon the rule of law and make a mockery of the democratic process.

If party leaders believe they possess the authority to handpick candidates, why organize primary elections at all? They could simply announce their preferred candidates and spare the people the charade.

Since the refusal to release the results of the primary election, many individuals have been making pilgrimages to Abuja. Why? Are they attempting to negotiate the mandate of voters in exchange for the preferences of unelected party power brokers?

Who are these party leaders? How did they become leaders? It is increasingly evident that many of them were themselves selected rather than elected. Consequently, they remain accountable not to citizens but to their political benefactors.

This is why we continue to suffer. Their loyalty is to Abuja, not to the people. They cannot rock the boat because they are products of the very system they seek to preserve. Their mission is to recruit new acolytes who think alike and who will perpetuate the same culture of obedience to power rather than service to the people.

This is not democracy. Under the rubric of democracy, transparency is indispensable, and the rule of law is supreme. The absence of these values has nurtured the decay that now afflicts our nation. Progress remains elusive because we continue to drink from the toxic brew served in the dirty vessels of failed leadership.

Many of those who should be champions of development have instead become champions of decadence. Under such leadership, every essential public service has been compromised. The hospital in my village has become little more than a mortuary. Electricity is a luxury. Criminals parade our streets with impunity, sometimes in the company of politicians, taunting ordinary citizens because they, like their selected patrons, believe themselves to be above the law.

Politicians now negotiate and hobnob with armed robbers and kidnappers. Nothing appears sacred anymore. The moral foundations of society are steadily eroding. We have all become infected with what I call Abuja Fever—a disease of power, greed, and political manipulation that demands the sacrifice of truth, justice, and the people's mandate.

DR. AUSTIN ORETTE, NDC DELTA SOUTH SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, WRITES FROM OWHELOGBO IN ISOKO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

ORETTE DECRIES UNFAIRNESS IN NDC PRIMARY

A Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) aspirant in Delta South, Dr. Austin Orette, on Sunday decried unfairness in the country’s politics.

‘’The future of Nigeria cannot be built upon a foundation of electoral injustice. Our nation deserves better. Our people deserve better. Democracy deserves better. History will judge us not only by the battles we fought, but by the injustices we refused to tolerate’’.

He also alleged that individuals who did not actively participate in the party's internal democratic process may have been favored over those who subjected themselves to the scrutiny of delegates and the electoral process.

‘’I participated in the recent senatorial primary election of our party with absolute faith in the process and with the conviction that the NDC would stand as a credible alternative to the culture of impunity, manipulation, and political brigandage that has weakened our democracy for decades. I believed that our party was founded to defend transparency, fairness, and the sovereign will of the people. Sadly, recent developments have raised serious concerns about whether those principles are being upheld’’.

In a statement released in Owhelogbo, Isoko North Local Government Area, Orette described the outcome of the primary process as an assault on the democratic values upon which NDC claims to stand

‘’Information available to us suggests that the outcome of the primary process may not reflect the genuine wishes of party members and delegates who participated in the exercise’’.

He called on the leadership of the NDC to immediately publish and defend the authentic results of the primary election, provide full transparency regarding the selection process, and address the concerns being raised by party members and stakeholders across Delta South Senatorial District and beyond.

‘’The issue before us is larger than any individual ambition. It concerns the integrity of the electoral process, the sanctity of the ballot, and the confidence of ordinary Nigerians who continue to believe that politics can be conducted with honesty and accountability.

According to him, a political party that cannot protect the mandate of its own members cannot convincingly promise to protect the mandate of the Nigerian people’’

‘’When internal democracy is sacrificed on the altar of personal interests, political patronage, or backroom arrangements, the credibility of the entire political system is placed at risk.

He promised to pursue every lawful and constitutional avenue available to ensure that justice is done.

‘’We will challenge any action that undermines the democratic process through the appropriate party mechanisms and, where necessary, through the courts of law’’.

The US-based family medicine physician and Nigerian politician urged men and women of goodwill to stand for transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.

‘’This is not a fight for one candidate. It is a fight for every Nigerian who believes that merit should prevail over manipulation, that votes should count, and that democracy should not be reduced to a mere ceremonial exercise’’.

He declared that political parties have no choice but to operate according to the principles they publicly profess.

‘’To all supporters of good governance, accountability, and political reform, this is a defining moment. Silence in the face of injustice only emboldens those who seek to undermine democratic institutions. We must collectively insist that political parties operate according to the principles they publicly profess’’.

EMMANUEL TUNDE AGANBI, CANAAN LAND GOLF COURSE AND COUNTRY CLUB BOT MEMBER, DIES AT 73

A respected trustee of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, has passed away.

Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi died on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 73.

In a statement issued on Monday in Koko, the family of Stephen Aganbi described Tunde Aganbi’s passing as a monumental loss, not only to the Itsekiri nation but also to Nigeria as a whole.

According to the family, Elder Tunde Aganbi was a dependable father, a trustworthy brother, and a distinguished gentleman known for his generosity, gratitude, integrity, spirituality, vision, and strong moral values.

A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon. Felix Aganbi, noted that the vacuum created by his death would be difficult to fill.

The statement added that Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi left a lasting mark through his unique leadership style within the family, the business community, and the management of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club.

The family of the Second Republic politician, Bible translator, and prominent lawyer also praised Elder Tunde Aganbi for his sacrifices, humility, and unwavering commitment to achieving set goals.

They further described him as a man of sound character, wisdom, and understanding who would be remembered for his wise counsel, humility, kindness, and enduring affection for children.

The statement also highlighted his astuteness, leadership qualities, and sense of humour, describing him as a role model who led by example.

The funeral and burial of Elder Tunde Aganbi, according to the family, will take place in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

‘‘The funeral programme will begin with service of songs on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at Christiana Aganbi Hall, Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Koko, scheduled to hold between 4:00 and 7:00pm. An open air service and interment will follow on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club while a memorial golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2026, in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area’’.

EMMANUEL TUNDE AGANBI, CANAAN LAND GOLF COURSE AND COUNTRY CLUB BOT MEMBER, DIES AT 73
A respected trustee of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club, Elder Emmanuel Tunde Oludewa Aganbi, has passed away.
Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi died on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 73.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Koko, the family of Stephen Aganbi described his passing as a monumental loss, not only to the Itsekiri nation but also to Nigeria as a whole.
According to the family, Elder Tunde Aganbi was a dependable father, a trustworthy brother, and a distinguished gentleman known for his generosity, gratitude, integrity, spirituality, vision, and strong moral values.
A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon. Felix Aganbi, noted that the vacuum created by his death would be difficult to fill.
The statement added that Elder Emmanuel Tunde Aganbi left a lasting mark through his unique leadership style within the family, the business community, and the management of the Canaan Land Golf Course and Country Club.
The family of the Second Republic politician, Bible translator, and prominent lawyer also praised him for his sacrifices, humility, and unwavering commitment to achieving set goals.
They further described him as a man of sound character, wisdom, and understanding who would be remembered for his wise counsel, humility, kindness, and enduring affection for children.
The statement also highlighted his astuteness, leadership qualities, and sense of humour, describing him as a role model who led by example.
According to the family, Christian burial rites will hold on Saturday, June 27, 2027, in Lagos, while a memorial golf tournament and traditional burial rites are scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area.

THE ANATOMY OF FEAR BY DR AUSTIN ORETTE

“We have nothing to fear except fear itself “FDR

The All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election was an exercise on how to control the people with fear. The party primaries yielded significant victories for political heavyweights alongside massive upsets for several incumbents.

In a democratic exercise that was supposed to be peaceful, there was gun fire, mayhem and murder. As usual, the police will not investigate these assaults on citizens because lawlessness is their insignia and this is also a telescope of the most powerful weapon of incumbent politicians of the APC stripe.

Fear is their weapon and they will deploy it for the harvest of power. They have nothing to show for the high office they hold. Fear has always been the weapon of dictators and outlaws. This is also the weapon the kidnappers have used effectively in Nigeria without any hindrance despite the overwhelming electronic signatures and footprints. The Colonial masters used it. The military used it and threw the country into a civil war that we are still grappling with. They made Nigeria a fear-based society. Fear based existence is a mechanical existence that makes every citizen interaction adversarial. This is who we are now. We have become a people with contracted dreams and limited aspiration. Our limited dreams take us everywhere but here.

Any kind of leadership that induces this kind of behavioral changes must be voted out to save our republic. This is what patriotism demands. We have a duty to vote out this bunch of leaders who have no understanding of constitutional order and a democratic society. They perambulate like peacocks and want us to consider their irrational drivels as law of the land.

After many years of civilian administrations, you will expect that those who rule will abide by the laws and govern with reason. Not so fast. The people in power today were the acolyte of the military cadre that ruled and destroyed Nigeria. They have adopted military tactics to force obedience. Damn the law and damn civility. Nigerian leaders are yet to come across a situation they cannot resolve without violence and intimidation. The citizen must be made to be afraid, very afraid and pliable. Keep him hungry and he will always be afraid. There is no law they cannot break in order to physically maim or kill a citizen who is not in tandem with obeying before the complaint format of governing.

If you close your eyes and listen to the way some of these politicians talk, you will think they got their position through a military coup. They use sirens to drive citizens from roads they did not construct, and they have thugs on their payrolls. They use the army and the police to harass citizens during the day and use their thugs to harass them at night. This is Nigeria where fear has been distilled to render the citizen impotent and unreasonable.

Activities in most cities come to a halt at about 5pm, because the citizens have become very afraid of the dark. The Night now belongs to the kidnappers, robbers and thugs. This anatomy of fear envelops the whole nation that everyone is distrustful of each other. This atmosphere has created a situation where we think the worst of each other, and we become easy to offend and manipulate.

Without a little nudge, we become participants in orgy of hatred for anyone who does not share the perimeter of our thoughts. The defensive actions we take in response to these fears clouds our judgement and out of proportion to the point of irrationality.

How do you explain a burglary proof in the window of the fifth floor of a building? Who is that robber who will come at 2 am with a ladder to climb into the window of the fifth floor and descend with his loot? That is the irrationality of fear.

There was a time in Nigeria when criminals were afraid of the citizens. At this time of writing, Nigerians are afraid of the criminals. The fear is so morbid that a lynching mob assembles immediately to kill a hungry person who stole a loaf of bread. No one has empathy for anyone anymore. That is how a society dies.

We are too afraid to come to rational judgement. How do we deal with ourselves when we have just taken the life of someone who needed our help? In the same breath, we celebrate leaders who made these conditions happen. These contradictions push us into a state of mass psychosis as we cannot rationalize these behaviors.

Fear has made our society afraid of human compassion. Whether we know it or not, we have become dogs in Ivan pavlov’s experiment where our reactions become instinctual, and rationality is held in abeyance. We begin to equate the ability to induce fear as the strength of politicians and we use the ability to hurt or kill people as ennobling. Sooner or later, we surrender the society we love to the psychopaths amongst us. They will mimic our civility and make laws that will set the criminals free and imprison the innocents. This is what guarantees the silence of the masses in the presence of overwhelming criminality.

A person was killed during a primary election. No one is talking because they have been enclosed in a cocoon of fear. These fears keep us divided. As long as we are afraid of something, the mediocre leaders are empowered. The fear is their oxygen. A village is wiped out by marauding soldiers, and my governor pays a courtesy call to the president. Dead voters are of no use to him as long as those alive are still afraid. The leaders who enable this kind of atmosphere should never be entrusted with power. They are the problem and we should vote them out.

We must wake up and remember that even though the road to Samaria was very bad, there was a Good Samaritan who chose love over fear and saved someone he did not know.

Fear is a limiting factor that stops the growth of a people. People who are afraid cannot dream and be creative. We must get rid of these fears because fearful people cannot be free. This fear precludes us from knowing each other and doing business with each other in a terrain that lacks legal safeguards.

These leaders who love power without any sense of responsibility must be voted out of power. They have used their limited vision to put our people in bondage of ignorance, disease and poverty.

We are obligated to reclaim our humanity. Voting them out will remove the blanket of fear that has stifled the energy and productivity of the Nigerian youth. We must remove this fear that has programmed us not to be kind to each other. We must make them answerable to us. This is what the 2027 election is all about. They must be held accountable for the decay in our society.

AUSTIN ORETTE WRITES FROM OWHELOGBO IN ISOKO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA