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Bauchi Govt Debunks Claims of Governor’s Defecting to PRP

Bauchi State Government has dismissed claims suggesting that Governor Bala Mohammed is considering defecting to the Peoples Redemption Party, (PRP).

The clarification followed a statement attributed to the PRP Publicity Secretary in the state, Hon Wada Abdullahi, alleging that the governor was not welcome to join the party. The government described the remark as “false” and “a product of imagination.”

According to Abdullahi, the party’s attention was drawn to circulating reports suggesting that Governor Mohammed might seek refuge in the PRP following the “alleged disintegration” of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nationwide.

However, the PRP declared that even if the rumours were true, the governor would not be welcomed.

Abdullahi stated that Governor Mohammed’s leadership record in Bauchi State falls short of the standards the party upholds.

But responding to PRP in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado, said Governor Mohammed has never contemplated leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), adding that no move—direct or indirect—had been made toward joining the PRP.

He noted that the governor’s political strength has been demonstrated in his electoral victories over the PRP in previous contests.

The government maintained that Bauchi has continued to record progress under Mohammed’s administration, citing gains in empowerment, infrastructure, rural development, urban renewal and tourism.

It also criticised the PRP’s stance, saying the party had failed to appreciate ongoing reforms, including the restructuring of traditional institutions and transfer of certain powers aimed at improving governance.

Gidado urged residents to remain watchful and not be swayed by “habitual criticism” from political actors seeking relevance.

Nwoko Family Beams With Pride As Kingsley Nwoko Is Decorated Major General 

…Senator Ned Nwoko Honours Brother’s Elevation

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko was on hand to witness the investiture ceremony of newly promoted Major Generals at the Nigerian Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday.

The event brought together senior military officers, government officials, and families to celebrate the elevation of officers in recognition of their dedication and outstanding service.

Among those honoured was Maj. Gen. Kingsley Nwoko, brother of Senator Ned Nwoko, who was promoted from Brigadier General to Major General. The promotion was part of a broader investiture of senior officers who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, discipline, and commitment to national security.

Senator Ned Nwoko described the promotion as a proud moment for the entire Nwoko family and for Anioma. He noted that the Nwoko family has always been associated with service, discipline, and commitment to the greater good—values his brother has consistently upheld throughout his career. He added that Kingsley’s elevation to Major General is “a well-deserved recognition of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering service to the Nigerian Army and to our nation,” and said the family and Anioma community are deeply proud of his accomplishments.

Oghenesivbe Congratulates UPU PG Ese Gam on Re-election, Urges Urhobo Unity

The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has congratulated Chief (Barr) Ese Gam Owe on his re-election as President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) for a second term.

In a goodwill message, Oghenesivbe praised Owe’s leadership, noting that his tenure has fostered unity within the Urhobo nation, ending leadership factions and promoting peace.

He acknowledged past challenges caused by disunity but credited Owe with restoring harmony, transparency and accountability in the union.

Oghenesivbe highlighted Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s efforts to drive development across Delta State, including the Urhobo nation, emphasizing the need for rapid infrastructure and socioeconomic growth across the kingdoms.

The Bureau Chief urged Owe and his executive to collaborate with stakeholders and Urhobo sons and daughters in strategic positions to promote progress.

“The Urhobo nation will develop faster than any other ethnic nationality in the state if all well-endowed sons and daughters unite and mobilize expertise and resources for the common good,” Oghenesivbe said, listing examples of successful Urhobos in public and private sectors.

He prayed for sustained peace, unity, and progress, wishing Chief Owe and his team good health, divine protection, and wisdom to deliver on their responsibilities.

Delta State Police Commissioner Urges Peace and Law-Abiding Conduct as Festive Season Approaches

As the year draws to a close and the festive season approaches, the Delta State Police Command has called on residents to uphold peace and adhere to the law. Olufemi Abaniwonda, the 22nd Commissioner of Police in Delta State, extended warm wishes to Deltans and Nigerian residents conducting business in the state.

Speaking in a statement, Commissioner Abaniwonda said, “We wish every Deltan and every Nigerian resident in Delta a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2026 in advance. However, we urge everyone to continue to be law-abiding. If you see something, say something. Let us all maintain the peace we have enjoyed throughout the year.”

He emphasized that sustaining peace is key to the prosperity of the state and the well-being of its residents. “It is only through peace and law-abiding behavior that we can build the Delta of our choice and ensure that our people thrive,” he added.

Commissioner Abaniwonda also acknowledged the support of the state government in maintaining security. “His Excellency, Right Honourable Sharif Oboro Warren, through his Hope Agenda, has continuously supported security services to provide an enabling environment for the people to prosper,” he said.

The Commissioner concluded by reiterating his festive greetings, saying, “Once again, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas in advance and a prosperous 2026.”

Senate Committee On Crude Oil Theft Meets NNPC Leadership In Oversight Visit

…. Senator Ned Nwoko Seeks Clarity on Past Leakages, Current Operations Before Final Senate Report

The Senate Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the persistent loss of crude oil revenues paid an oversight working visit to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) on Tuesday, as part of its ongoing engagements with strategic institutions in the sector.

The committee, led by its chairman, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, was received by the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Engr. Udobong Ntia, and other senior officials of the national oil company.

In his opening remarks before the session moved behind closed doors, Senator Ned Nwoko reasserted the seriousness of the assignment before the committee and the level of work already completed. He said the Senate expects a report that is factual, defensible, and comprehensive, given the enormity of losses associated with crude oil theft over the years.

“This is a committee with a very clear mandate. We have undertaken extensive work so far, including engaging both internal and international consultants, conducting field assessments, analyzing data and producing three separate interim reports, all of which have been formally laid before the Senate”.

The senator noted that while historical losses remain a major concern, with credible external documentation estimating crude oil theft at about $300 billion over time, the committee is equally focused on understanding present-day realities within NNPC’s upstream operations.

“The totality of the three interim reports shows clearly that there were a lot of issues in the past. But while the historical picture is important, our immediate priority here is to understand clearly what the situation is today, what has changed, what remains unresolved, and what measures your team has put in place to ensure sustainable progress. We do have serious issues that we need answers to before concluding our reports.”

Senator Ned Nwoko noted NNPC’s recent claims of reduced disruptions on critical pipelines and improved operational stability but emphasised that the committee requires verifiable data and full transparency to reconcile past leakages with present realities.

“There are two parts to this: one is about previous activities, some of which predate the current management. And second, to critically examine ongoing operations and the reforms now in place. We will deal with what is happening now, and in relation to our reports, we will also seek to have some private discussions with your team.”

Following his remarks, the senators and the NNPC leadership proceeded into a closed-door meeting, expected to cover detailed operational data, security measures, and audit trails relevant to the Senate’s ongoing investigation.

Ukah Inspects Capital Territory Road Projects, Expresses Satisfaction with Quality, Progress

By Kingsley Chibuzor

The Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Mr. Patrick UkahPatrick Ukah, has expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and level of progress recorded on several ongoing and completed road projects across the Delta State Capital Territory following an unscheduled inspection tour on Monday.

Mr. Ukah, who was accompanied by senior officials of the Agency, including the Project Manager and supervising engineer, Engineer Bawo Atsiangbe, inspected multiple project sites in Asaba and Okpanam, spanning Oshimili South and Oshimili North Local Government Areas. The inspection was undertaken to assess progress firsthand and ensure strict compliance with approved engineering standards and specifications.

Speaking during the tour, the Director General explained that the inspection covered key flood control and road infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity, easing traffic movement, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents of the state capital.

Among the projects inspected was the construction of flood control measures at Ogbeilo/Ugbomanta Streets, with a discharge drain through Ogbeogonogo Market to Utuogwu Bay in Asaba, which is currently about 60 per cent completed. Mr. Ukah described the project as critical to addressing the perennial flooding challenges in the area.

Also inspected were several road projects already 100 per cent completed, including the construction of Princess Pat Ajudua Crescent with a 110-metre spur to New General Hospital Road in GRA Phase V; Ambassador Leo Okogwu Road and adjoining streets in Zappa; Martins Nwanze Street; and the overlay of Oweazin Kenaz Crescent in Okpanam.

Other completed projects inspected include Aloy Isowede/Pastor Agbaegbu D. Street, Asaba, as well as Cletus Okolie Achi Way/Marble Hill School Road with a spur to Holy Family Catholic Church Road, off Okpanam Road.

The Director-General commended the engineering team of the Agency, led by Engineer Bawo Atsiangbe, for maintaining high construction standards and delivering quality jobs across the various sites. He emphasized that the Agency remains committed to ensuring value for money and durability in all projects executed under its supervision.

“From what I have seen so far, I am satisfied with both the quality of work and the level of progress achieved. Very soon, these roads will be fully ready for use, bringing much-needed ease, connectivity, and comfort to residents and road users within the capital territory,” Mr. Ukah stated.

He further reassured residents of the Delta State Government’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori places premium importance on durable, people-oriented projects that enhance urban living in the state capital.

Ethiope East Now Free From Insecurity — Ogedegbe Declares

The Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Chief Augustine Ogedegbe has declared that the council is now “free from insecurity,” crediting the turnaround to divine intervention and the determined efforts of his administration.

He made the statement while hosting community newspaper publishers led by the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Community Newspapers, Prince Oromonokpaye at his office in Isiokolo.

Speaking on the difficult security situation he inherited, the Chairman recalled that Ethiope East once faced what he described as “a beast-like level of insecurity,” particularly attacks linked to armed herders around the Abraka axis.

“It is God who handled it, not really me,” he said.

“When I came in, the security tension was like a beast. The same day, we lost two people to armed Fulani men in Abraka. It was a very bad one as it was all over the news.”

According to him, the administration responded swiftly by activating multiple security layers, including Operation Show-of-Force, local vigilante groups, and community hunters. These interventions, he noted, gradually restored peace to the troubled parts of the council.

“Today, even the people of Abraka who suffered the worst of it are saying the government has really tried. We still monitor and we follow up. There is no bad news at all, and by God’s grace, there will be none.”

The Chairman affirmed that Ethiope East is now regarded as one of the most secure local government areas in the state.

 “Security-wise, Ethiope East is safe. Our people can testify. God has done this for my government.”

2027: Delta Central APC Leaders Pledge Loyalty to Tinubu, Oborevwori 

…Stress Unity, Discipline,  Victory for Tinubu, Oborevwori

Leaders and other stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta Central Senatorial District, on Sunday, converged at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, for a high-level strategic meeting and pledged unalloyed loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The gathering, which brought together senior government officials, party executives, leaders, other stakeholders, and grassroots mobilisers, focused on reinforcing unity, discipline, and internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections with discussions centred on strengthening the party’s organisational framework, enhancing collaboration across all levels, and ensuring readiness for what stakeholders described as a defining political year.

Moving a motion to pledge unalloyed loyalty of the Delta Central APC Stakeholders to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, which was seconded by Chief Andrew Oru, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for remarkable strides in national security and economic stability.

According to Keyamo, “Nigeria is beginning to record improved security across various regions,” attributing the progress to the President’s renewed commitment to confronting insecurity.

Keyamo also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the massive infrastructural development across Delta State, adding that the Governor’s development strides were unequalled.

The minister urged party members to remain steadfast and united as APC congresses approach, cautioning aspirants that no one would secure the party’s ticket “from Abuja” without the endorsement of grassroots leaders.

He emphasised that loyalty, internal alignment, and respect for party structures were non-negotiable for electoral success.

Reflecting on Delta State’s political history, State Chairman of the party, Elder Omeni Sobotie underscored the strategic realignment from PDP to APC.

Sobotie stressed the importance of genuine grassroots engagement and the involvement of respected elders, urging members to remain united, resilient, and prepared against political attacks and expressed optimism for a landslide victory.

Chairman of the Delta Central Senatorial District APC, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, warned against indiscipline, factional loyalties, and divided structures, describing Delta Central as the “political engine room” of the party in the state.

Akpeki said; “One of the major problems confronting us today is indiscipline among some members, especially within certain local government and ward executives.

“Delta State APC has only one leader, and that leader is His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State. This is not up for debate. Any loyalty outside this structure is unacceptable.”

He announced reforms aimed at strengthening the party, including mandatory monthly senatorial meetings, rotating across the eight local government areas and the creation of a Delta Central APC Caucus Committee, tasked with strategic planning, conflict resolution, mobilisation, and performance monitoring.

“Our mission is too important and the stakes too high for indiscipline or division. Delta Central APC must operate as one family, with one structure, one leadership, one direction, and one objective: victory is sure in 2027,” he said.

The Senator representing Delta Central, Senator Ede Dafinone, the Member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency, Hon Ejiro Waive, the Executive Director of NEXIM Bank, Stella Okotete, Chief Solomon Igrakpata and Chief Andrew Oru, in their separate remarks, spoke in the same vein, stressing the importance of unity in the APC.

Local Government APC Chairmen present at the meeting unanimously expressed their commitment to delivering maximum votes for President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and all APC candidates in 2027.

As the meeting concluded, leaders reiterated their determination to reposition Delta Central APC as a disciplined, united, and formidable political force capable of securing sweeping victories in 2027.

Lagos Book Presentation: Delta State Governor Reiterates Support for Literary Excellence

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting literary excellence, intellectual discourse, and the growth of knowledge-driven communities.

The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, stated that his government will continue to support initiatives that celebrate creativity, scholarship, and national development.

Speaking at the public presentation of the book Hallmarks of Labour written by Izoma Philip Chikwuendo Asiodu, Governor Oborevwori said literature plays a vital role in shaping societal values and inspiring future generations.

He noted that Delta State is proud to identify with platforms that honour outstanding contributions to nation-building through the power of the written word.

Prof. Tonukari, delivering the governor’s message, commended Asiodu for his distinguished contribution to Nigerian literature and described the book as a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and integrity.

He encouraged emerging writers to continue striving for excellence in their craft.

The event, held at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, brought together eminent personalities and literary enthusiasts, including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd.), who chaired the occasion.

Discussions at the ceremony also highlighted the themes of the book, with speakers reflecting on the author’s emphasis on the virtues that define meaningful achievement and national progress.

Youth Dies After Fight Outburst at Naming Ceremony

The death of a 20-year-old man has occured after a fight broke out during a naming ceremony in Warji Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The incident was contained in a post shared on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama.

Makama said the victim, identified as Haruna Haruna from Kwata village, was injured during a dispute among youths during the event.

According to the post, the disagreement turned out violent.

He later died while receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Warji.

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