Several top government officials have resigned from their positions in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-controlled state, sparking political interest ahead of forthcoming party activities and electoral processes.
Among those who stepped down are a serving commissioner and the Chief of Staff to the governor, alongside other senior political appointees.
Edo State Water Resources Commissioner, Washington Osifo resigns from Governor Monday Okpebholo’s cabinet, Deputy Chief of Staff, Plus Alile also resigns to pursue elective positions.
Although official reasons for their resignations were not immediately disclosed, sources within the government indicated that the move may be connected to their political ambitions.
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Chief of Staff, Commissioner Others Step Down in This APC Led State
Step Down Immediately or Face Disqualification Okpebholo Warns Aspirants
The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has directed political appointees and public office holders seeking elective positions to resign immediately or face disqualification from contesting.
Okpebholo gave the warning during a meeting with party stakeholders and aspirants, stressing that anyone currently holding a government position must step down in line with existing laws and party guidelines before pursuing political ambitions.
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists today in Benin City by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele.
According to the statement, the directive was issued in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.
“The directive is aimed at ensuring that all aspiring candidates do not run the risk of disqualification by the relevant electoral authorities,” Ikhilor stated.
He added that the requirement was designed to promote fairness, transparency and a level playing field for all aspirants, while safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.
The government further reminded public office holders that “the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements,” urging all affected officers to take immediate and necessary steps to comply within the stipulated timeline.
The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo reiterated its commitment to upholding constitutionalism, respecting the rule of law and ensuring strict observance of due process in governance and political participation.
The statement also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to give the notice the widest possible circulation.
Southern Delta University Maiden Convocation: Oborevwori Approves Key Projects
…Rewards Four First Class Students As Institution Graduates 1,231 Students
Delta State Governor and Visitor to Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday approved critical infrastructural projects as the institution graduated 1,231, including four First Class students at its maiden convocation ceremony, marking a historic milestone in its evolution.
Speaking at the convocation ceremony, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to God for the successful take-off and growth of the institution, describing the maiden convocation as “the first of many remarkable achievements” for a university founded on hard work, resilience and excellence.
Earlier in the day, the Governor commissioned several projects, including laboratories and workshops for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, male and female hostsls, the Faculty of Computing complex, and the Faculty of Medical Sciences building constructed by the Delta State Government.
Oborevwori paid tribute to his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, for the foresight in establishing the university in 2021 as Delta State University of Science and Technology, noting that he presided over the legislative process as Speaker of the State House of Assembly at the time.
“Despite criticisms driven by narrow political interests, the benefits are now clear. Thousands of students who may not have had access to university education have been admitted, trained and graduated,” he said.
He explained that the amendment of the law to rename the institution as Southern Delta University was aimed at broadening its academic scope and enabling the accreditation of more programmes, in line with the administration’s vision of inclusive and responsive education.
The Governor approved key requests presented by the Vice-Chancellor, including additional ambulances, equipment for the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, hostels for medical students, a Faculty of Law complex, completion of the Computer-Based Test Centre, perimeter fencing and other critical infrastructure.
While commending Engr Godwin Izomor for giving automatic employment to the overall best graduating student, Oborevwori announced a cash award of ₦5 million for the overall best graduating student, as well as ₦1 million each for the other three First Class graduands. He maintained that outstanding performance must always be rewarded.
A total of 1,231 students graduated at the ceremony, including four First Class honours recipients, 421 Second Class Upper Division, 796 Second Class Lower Division and 10 in other categories.
Earlier in his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, described the maiden convocation as a watershed moment in the history of the institution, tracing its evolution from a College of Agriculture to Delta State Polytechnic, and eventually to a full-fledged university in 2021.
He noted that since inception, the university has expanded from six faculties with 45 programmes to 11 faculties with 89 programmes, all approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission.
Oboreh highlighted major infrastructural developments, including the construction of faculty complexes, laboratories, hostels, internal road networks, staff quarters, a perimeter fence and procurement of over 900 computers.
He also acknowledged the donation of ten fully furnished workshops by Engineer Godwin Izomo and the completion of previously abandoned projects, including a 1,200-seater auditorium.
The Vice-Chancellor appealed for further government support, particularly in the areas of medical accreditation requirements, power supply through an independent power plant, construction of additional hostels, establishment of a Teaching Hospital in Ozoro, perimeter fencing and completion of the Computer-Based Examination Centre.
Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Godson Echegile, expressed appreciation to the Ozoro and Orerokpe communities for their support and commended the Convocation Lecturer, General Alexander Ogomudia (rtd), for delivering a thought-provoking lecture titled, “Beyond Oil: The University and the Future of the Niger Delta.”
In his valedictory speech, the overall best graduating student, Frank Akaine, expressed gratitude to God, the State Government, the University management, lecturers and parents for their support throughout their academic journey.
He described the pioneer class as trailblazers who endured the uncertainties of a newly established institution with courage and determination.
“We came in as the first set, unsure of what the future held, but today we leave as proud alumni of a fast-rising university. This achievement is a testament to resilience, sacrifice and the power of vision,” Akaine said
He encouraged his fellow graduates to uphold the values of integrity, excellence and hard work instilled in them, pledging that the pioneer alumni would be worthy ambassadors of Southern Delta University.
The ceremony drew an array of dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, academics and community stakeholders, marking a defining chapter in the history of Southern Delta University, Ozoro.
Oborevwori Inaugurates Key Infrastructure At Southern Delta University
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday inaugurated series of landmark projects at Southern Delta University, Ozoro, as part of events marking the institution’s maiden convocation ceremony.
Among the projects commissioned were a block of science laboratories, the Faculty of Computing Complex, the Pa James Odhokpa Izomor Engineering Workshops comprising 10 fully equipped workshops donated by Engineer Godwin Izomor, male and female hostels, and the Faculty of Medical Sciences building constructed by the Delta State Government.
Inaugurating the projects, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to God for the milestone and lauded the university for its steady growth within a short period.
“I am very pleased to be here today. First and foremost, I thank Almighty God for making this occasion possible, and I commend Southern Delta University for this remarkable milestone,” he said.
The Governor disclosed that he began the day’s activities before 9 a.m. with the commissioning of key facilities, including laboratories and workshops for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Computing Complex.
He described as particularly inspiring the engineering workshops built through private initiative in memory of Pa James Izomor, noting that the gesture reflected a worthy investment in education and human capital development.
“While many people invest their wealth in luxury and showmanship, this family chose to invest in education. This is deeply commendable, and I pray that God will continue to bless them,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, the Governing Council and management for their prudent and transparent management of the University’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which he said had translated into tangible infrastructural development.
“I am particularly impressed with the prudent use of Internally Generated Revenue by the University management. I encourage Vice-Chancellors of other universities to emulate what is being done here,” he added, while reaffirming that the institution is permitted to control and deploy its IGR for developmental purposes.
Reflecting on the Faculty of Medical Sciences project, the Governor recalled inspecting the building last year and promising that the new faculty would be provided with a befitting structure and conducive learning environment.
“Today, I am glad to say that this promise has been fulfilled. The quality of work delivered here speaks volumes. This is indeed a very significant project and clearly reflects the steady expansion and growth of the university. This is a promise made and a promise kept,” he said.
He described the Medical Faculty project as critical to the advancement of medical education and scientific research in the state.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, disclosed that several of the projects were executed through internally generated revenue and direct labour, a strategy that ensured cost-effectiveness and quality control.
He thanked Governor Oborevwori for his consistent funding and unwavering support, which he said had enabled the young institution to achieve significant infrastructural and academic milestones within a short period.
The inauguration of the projects stood out as a major highlight of the historic maiden convocation ceremony, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to strengthening tertiary education and providing modern facilities to support learning and innovation in Delta State.
Nwaoboshi’s Funeral: Don’t Allow Division Define Us, Oborevwori Tells Politicians
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday urged political leaders to remain united and rise above bitterness and rivalry, maintaining that Nigeria’s advancement depends on cooperation, mutual respect, and collective responsibility.
Speaking at the Funeral Mass of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa, Governor Oborevwori, said the life and passing of Senator Nwaoboshi should remind leaders at all levels that public office is a sacred trust, entrusted by God and the people for the common good of the nation.
Eminent Nigerians from across political, ethnic and religious divides gathered at Ibusa to honour the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.
He said: “Power is transient. Positions are temporary. But the legacy of service endures. Let us learn from this solemn moment. Let us govern with humility. Let us engage one another with respect. Let us remember that history will judge us not by titles held, but by lives touched”.
He called for peace and purposeful collaboration, noting that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity.
“When we are united, there is strength. When we cooperate, there is progress. But when we allow division to define us, we weaken the moral foundation upon which we stand. Nigeria must always come first,” he emphasized.
Governor Oborevwori reassured Deltans that his administration remains committed to inclusive development, responsible governance, and policies that uplift the people.
“To the children and family of our departed brother, let his name remain your badge of honour. Let his legacy inspire excellence, integrity, and patriotism. His service to Delta State and Nigeria will not be forgotten,” he added.
Oborevwori said life and death remain in the hands of Almighty God, adding that true greatness is measured not by the length of years, but by the depth of impact. “What matters most is not how long we live, but how well we serve humanity and our nation,” he said.
Continuing, he said: “We are gathered in this sacred sanctuary not only to mourn a distinguished son of Delta State, but to reflect deeply on the kind of nation we are building.
“The life of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi challenges us to place service above self, unity above division, and country above personal ambition.”
Citing John 11:25 — “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he live”, the Governor emphasized the Christian hope of eternal life, noting that Nigerians must draw strength from faith even in moments of national reflection.
“We do not grieve as those without hope. We commend our brother to the Almighty, trusting in His promise of resurrection and everlasting peace. But as we pray for him, we must also renew our commitment to the ideals he stood for, courage, representation, and dedication to his people”, he said.
Describing Senator Nwaoboshi as a bridge-builder and patriot, Oborevwori said his contributions transcended political affiliations and strengthened democratic governance in Nigeria.
“He was not just a political figure; he was a servant of the people and a firm believer in Nigeria’s unity and progress. Indeed, the memory of the righteous is a blessing,” the Governor stated.
In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, preached on hope, accountability, and divine justice. Drawing from the experience of the Israelites in exile, he reminded the faithful that God remains present even in seasons of uncertainty.
Quoting the Book of Wisdom, he affirmed: “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”
“Time is not in our hands; it is in God’s hands. Let us live and serve in such a way that we may hear, ‘Welcome, good and faithful servant,” he said.
The Funeral Mass drew a distinguished gathering of national figures, underscoring the enduring influence of the late Senator. Among those present were the Governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; former Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; and numerous federal and state lawmakers.
OFAAC Mourns Passing of Its Founding Patron, Chief Elue
The Organization For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) – the culture umbrella body of Anioma people has announced with profound grief the passing of its revered founding Patron, Chief B.S.C. Elue, former Deputy Governor of Delta State (1999–2007) under the administration of Chief James Ibori. He was 85 years old.
According to a media release signed by Arc. Kester Ifeadi, President of OFAAC in Asaba, “As a distinguished son of Obior Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Elue was not only an accomplished statesman but also a prominent traditional chief (Okwalegwe of Obior) whose life was devoted to service, leadership, and the preservation of Anioma heritage”.
He recalled that during his tenure as Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Elue demonstrated exemplary dedication to governance and grassroots development. Beyond public office, he remained deeply committed to the cultural renaissance of the Anioma people. As a founding Patron of OFAAC, he played critical and strategic roles in strengthening the organization, offering wise counsel, mobilizing support within government circles, and elevating its profile both nationally and internationally.
Ifeadi said, through Chief Elue’s steadfast encouragement and advocacy, OFAAC gained increased visibility and recognition within governmental institutions and across global cultural platforms. His unwavering belief in the power of culture as a vehicle for unity and development significantly contributed to positioning OFAAC as a leading cultural organization in Nigeria and beyond.
“Chief Elue’s life was marked by dignity, humility, and an abiding love for Anioma heritage. He understood that culture is the soul of a people, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that the traditions, values, and identity of the Anioma Nation were preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
“On behalf of the leadership and entire membership of OFAAC worldwide, we bid farewell to a distinguished patriot, mentor, and cultural icon. His contributions to the cultural advancement of the Anioma Nation through OFAAC remain indelible and will continue to inspire our mission.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people of Obior Kingdom, the Anioma Nation, and the government and people of Delta State.
Adieu, our renowned founding Patron. Your legacy lives on in the cultural pride and unity you helped to nurture”, Arc. Ifeadi posited.
Oborevwori Dedicates CCDI Prestigious Leadership Action Award To Deltans
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was on Friday honored with the Leadership Action Award by the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) in recognition of his administration’s commitment to peace, justice, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
The award ceremony, held in Asaba, highlighted the Governor’s significant contributions toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Receiving the award, Governor Oborevwori who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the recognition as a validation of his administration’s governance model, which prioritizes due process and accountability as catalysts for genuine development.
The Governor said: “Justice is the oxygen of democracy; peace is the infrastructure of trust. This recognition reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions, the rule of law, and the equity that sustains peace.
“To be recognized by an institution so firmly committed to advancing democratic values and safeguarding integrity is not just a personal honor; it is a validation of the path we have chosen in governance, a path anchored in due process, accountability, and the unwavering belief that peace and justice are the bedrock of true development.
“This recognition of our contributions to Sustainable Development Goal 16 reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions.
“This award aligns with our MORE Agenda: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. Without peace, opportunities diminish; without security, development falters and I dedicate this recognition to our hardworking team and the resilient people of Delta State, whose collective commitment turns vision into reality.
”This award is not a destination but a call to greater duty”.
Earlier, President of the Rights Monitoring Group (RMG) and United States Permanent Representative of Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) to the United Nations, Comrade Olufemi Aduwo, stated that the award is a foremost global recognition for excellence in public service.
“Governor Oborevwori has recorded remarkable progress in the strengthening of public institutions, enhanced citizen security, deepened community-centered conflict resolution mechanisms, and widened access to justice across Delta State,” he said.
speaking on the sideline of the ceremony, Prof. Oluyemisi Akinyemiju, said; “each time we visit Delta State, we take time to assess the progress made in areas we previously identified.
“We compared the progress of this state with others we visited. I see this recognition as both an honor and a call to the state government to continue their positive efforts.”
The ceremony was attended by top government functionaries.
Senator Ned Nwoko, Political Leaders Pay Final Respects To Late Senator Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi
The lawmaker representing Delta North senatorial district, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko has joined APC faithful, political leaders and sons and daughters of Anioma to pay their final respects to the late Senator Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi, who departed on December 19, 2025.
The funeral mass was held at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Isieke–Ibusa, Delta State, on Friday, February 27, in a solemn ceremony marked by tributes, prayers and reflections on a life devoted to public service.
Among dignitaries in attendance were the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori; former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa; former President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan; Senator Ede Dafinone; former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, alongside other prominent political figures and community leaders.
In a condolence message released shortly after Nwaoboshi’s passing in December and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Senator Ned Nwoko described the late lawmaker as a consummate party administrator, longstanding political figure and dedicated community leader.
Nwaoboshi, who hailed from Isieke, Umuekea quarters in Ibusa, served as Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District from 2015 to 2023. He began his political journey in the late 1970s as an aide to the then Governor of old Bendel State, laying the foundation for a long and influential career in public service.
Over the years, he served in various capacities, including as political adviser to former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, and later as Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Special Duties between 2000 and 2006. From 2008 to 2014, he was the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta before resigning to contest for the Senate.
‘Pastors’ in Police Cell Over Fake Miracles
Six individuals posing as pastors in order to scam unsuspecting members of the public with fake miracles, operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested.
The suspects, identified as Fadahunsi, Kolade, Tijani, Iyanuoluwa, Arijesulola and Ademola, were apprehended in Idanre, headquarters of the Idanre Local Council Area of the state, which they use for their nefarious activities.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Abayomi Jimoh, the suspects were apprehended by the command’s tactical teams in collaboration with Community Safety Officers (CSOs) after a coordinated and intelligence-driven operation.
The police spokesperson disclosed that the suspects, through their modus operandi, involved the exploitation of faith, emotions, and vulnerabilities of their victims.
Jimoh added that the suspects swindled the victims under false pretense by promising divine solutions to financial difficulties, health challenges, and other personal problems.
He said, “It was gathered that the suspects operated in a coordinated manner, assigning specific roles to members of the group to create a convincing and structured facade of legitimacy.
“Further investigation is ongoing to ascertain the total number of victims, determine the financial magnitude of the fraud, and identify other collaborators who may still be at large.”
Catholic Church, Sacred Items, Vehicles Burnt in Cross River
Unknown persons have set ablaze St Mary Quasi Parish Catholic Church, Katchuan Irruan, in Boki Local Government Area of northern Cross River State.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Thursday, at about 3 a.m., throwing the quiet community into shock.
Church officials and residents said the identity and motive of the attackers remain unknown, noting that the assailants allegedly invaded the church premises before setting parts of the building on fire.
An unsigned statement issued by the church disclosed that the attackers gained unlawful entry into the facility and set fire to the Sacrament area, causing extensive damage to sacred items and sections of the altar.
The statement further revealed that vehicles belonging to the parish priest, which were parked within the church compound, were also torched during the attack.
According to the church, emergency responders were contacted promptly, while efforts were made to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to adjoining structures.
Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Police Command said it had launched a manhunt for those responsible for the attack.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said preliminary information indicated that the arsonists burnt records kept in the church sacristy and destroyed a Lexus RX 350 and a Toyota Corolla belonging to the priest.
Akata added that no arrests had been made, noting that the case has been formally recorded and transferred to Okundi Police Station for discreet investigation, with assurances that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
