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Oborevwori Condoles Family, Delta NUJ Over Death of Punch Correspondent, Matthew Ochei

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Punch Newspaper Correspondent, Mr. Matthew Ochei, describing his passing as a painful loss to the media community and the nation at large.

Ochei, a native of Ukunzu in Aniocha North Local Government Area, died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 43 years.

The Governor in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, commiserated with the Ochei family, journalists across the state, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, noting that the late journalist was a dedicated professional who discharged his duties with courage, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.

According to the Governor, Ochei’s commitment to truth, public enlightenment and ethical journalism earned him respect within and beyond the media industry.

“This is indeed a critical and painful moment. Delta State has lost a committed and fearless voice who informed and educated the public with professionalism and integrity.

“His untimely passing is a heavy blow to his family, the media community and all who believe in responsible journalism,” the Governor lamented.

Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones he left behind. May Almighty God grant them comfort at this difficult time and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest,” he added.

He further assured that the Delta State Government stands in solidarity with the NUJ and the entire media community during this moment of grief.

Oborevwori Prioritises Road Safety Over Sanctions on Truck Accidents

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising road safety over punitive sanctions in addressing the recurring incidents involving articulated trucks, particularly around the Ubu Bridge axis in Ogwashi-Uku along the newly constructed Ughelli–Asaba dual carriageway.

The State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the government would implement decisive measures aimed at curbing the rising cases of accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles on the corridor.

According to the Commissioner, the approach of the Oborevwori administration is anchored on enhanced safety enforcement rather than restrictive or punitive measures that could impede the free movement of goods and services.

He said planned interventions would include stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, improved speed control, and operational checks on articulated trucks plying the route.

Comrade Izeze further called for collective action to prevent future accidents, appealing to professionals, road safety experts, and concerned citizens to voluntarily offer practical, pro bono suggestions targeted at achieving zero accidents on the affected stretch.

He stressed that the appeal was not for consultancy services but for genuine, public-spirited contributions aimed at safeguarding lives and preserving the integrity of the road infrastructure.

The Commissioner explained that the renewed safety push follows a spate of accidents involving articulated trucks on the corridor, which have heightened concerns among motorists and residents despite the road’s recent completion and its enhanced aesthetics.

He revealed that the latest incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, marking the seventeenth recorded accident involving articulated trucks on the Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba stretch since the road was completed.

The incident occurred near the Ubu Bridge, a section known for its smooth pavement and modern drainage system designed to channel runoff from the surrounding Ogwashi-Uku hills into drains leading to the Ubu River.

Eyewitness accounts indicated that the articulated truck lost control while approaching the bridge, tilting and partially obstructing the carriageway. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded.

The driver reportedly attributed the accident to mechanical failure, claiming that the truck’s gear selector failed to engage a lower gear while navigating the approach to the bridge.

He dismissed suggestions of fatigue, describing the incident as an act of destiny. However, the explanation has done little to assuage public concern, given the frequency of similar occurrences on the same stretch of road.

“Despite the installation of clearly visible warning signs and speed limit notices before and after the bridge on both approaches installed months ago at the directive of Governor Oborevwori, many articulated truck drivers continue to disregard traffic regulations.

“Governor Oborevwori has consistently maintained that the state must avoid actions that could be perceived as restricting the free movement of goods and services, in line with global best practices.

“His administration has therefore prioritised improved compliance, driver discipline, and road safety measures over outright restrictions on the movement of heavy-duty vehicles.” Izeze added.

The Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba corridor has emerged as one of the busiest interstate routes in the South-South region, serving as a major transit link for articulated trucks travelling from the North, East, and South-West through Asaba and Ughelli to Warri, Yenagoa, Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, and Calabar.

This heavy traffic has placed considerable pressure on the road, even as the project continues to attract commendation for its quality and contribution to regional connectivity.

Despite the incidents, residents have acknowledged the broader impact of Governor Oborevwori’s infrastructure drive, noting that the quality of the road reflects the administration’s commitment to people-centred governance.

As investigations into the latest accident continue, stakeholders have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, improved driver discipline, and sustained public awareness to ensure that the benefits of the road project are not undermined by avoidable mishaps.

Amori Hails Son’s Commitment to Service, Education on Birthday

By
Hill Nigeria
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Distinguished Senator Chief Ighoyota Amori, Chief Adviser to the Governor of Delta State, has congratulated his son, Hon. Onome Christian Amori, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring and Audit, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a worthy son whose life of service has become a source of pride to the family and society.

In a congratulatory message released by his Public Relations Officer, Comr. Joelson Wilson, the Chief Adviser said he is deeply fulfilled watching his son grow into a responsible leader with a strong passion for education, youth empowerment and humanitarian service.

Speaking in an emotional father-to-son tone, Senator Amori said:

“My dear son, Onome, today I am not just celebrating your birthday, I am celebrating the man you have become. As a father, I am proud of your humility, your discipline, and your genuine commitment to service.”

“Your dedication to education, especially through the Onome Christian Amori Foundation, and your recent efforts in supporting Urhobo students, show that you understand the value of giving back and lifting others. That is a legacy worth building.”

“It gives me great joy to see you combine public service with a sincere heart for humanity. I pray that God grants you long life, wisdom, strength and greater opportunities to continue to serve and touch more lives. Happy birthday, my son.”

The Chief Adviser noted that Hon. Onome Amori’s growing impact in governance and community development, particularly his consistent support for education and youth advancement, reflects a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism.

He expressed confidence that his son would continue to distinguish himself in public service and humanitarian engagements, while remaining focused, disciplined and committed to the values of integrity, hard work and service to humanity.

Senator Amori wished his son good health, greater achievements and many more fruitful years of service to Delta State and the nation at large.

Delta Has Lost Rare Leaders, Says Oborevwori

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Hill Nigeria
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…Pays Condolence Visit To Nwaoboshi, Nuel Ojei Families

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the deaths of former Senator and political leader, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, and elder statesman, industrialist and community leader, Chief Emmanuel Nuel Ojei, as painful losses that have created significant gaps in Delta State, particularly Delta North, Oshimili North and Aniocha North Local Government Areas.

Governor Oborevwori made the remarks on Monday, during separate condolence visits to the families of the deceased, where he paid glowing tributes to their legacies, describing them as bold, principled, and selfless leaders whose impacts would be difficult to replace.

During his visit to the family of the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, fondly called “The Oracle,” the governor said the former lawmaker’s death came as a rude shock, noting that they had spoken only a few days before his passing.

“I received the sad news with rude shock because I spoke with him just a few days earlier. We discussed some development issues. I never imagined he would leave us so soon,” Oborevwori lamented.

He described Nwaoboshi as a courageous and outspoken leader who stood firmly by his convictions.
“If he was with you, he was fully with you; if not, he would tell you plainly. People like him are very few,” the governor said.

Oborevwori recalled their long relationship dating back to 2006 during the agitation for equity and power rotation in Delta State, particularly the push for Delta North to produce a governor at the time.

“He was very courageous as a party chairman and a strong voice for equity. Once he believed in a cause, you could not slow him down,” he said.

The governor noted that he was consoled by the fact that some lingering issues dear to the late Senator, including the Guinea House matter, were resolved before his death.

“It is not about how long one lives but the impact made. Senator Nwaoboshi made tremendous impact, raised people, and served the state with passion. There is truly a big vacuum in Delta North,” he added.

He extended condolences to the widow, Dr. Mrs. Judith Nwaoboshi, the Nwaoboshi family, the political family, the people of Delta North, and the Anioma nation, assuring them of the state government’s support.

Responding on behalf of the family, Elder Emmanuel Nwaoboshi thanked the governor for the visit, describing it as a source of comfort, and assured him of the family’s prayers and continued support.

In a similar vein, Governor Oborevwori, during a condolence visit to Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area, mourned the passing of Chief Nuel Ojei, describing him as one of the finest leaders produced by the area.

The governor commiserated with the widow, Mrs. Vivian Ojei, her children, and the entire Ojei family, noting that Aniocha North was a local government he held in high esteem because of the quality of leaders it had produced.

“Each time I came to this house, I went straight to see him. He was a very patient, wise, and thoughtful man who always offered guidance and support,” Oborevwori said.

He recalled how Chief Ojei maintained regular contact with him, offering counsel even after he became governor, and described the deceased as a man who lived a fulfilled and impactful life, respected within and outside the country.

“When I was contesting, I came here to consult him. He was always patient, very smart, and always keeping in touch. His passing is a great loss to all of us,” the governor lamented.

Governor Oborevwori assured the family of the support of the Delta State Government and prayed for peace and unity in Aniocha North as the community prepares for the burial of the late elder statesman.

Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, Special Adviser on Special Duties to the Governor and son of the deceased, thanked the governor for the visit, describing it as deeply comforting.

“Daddy held you very close to his heart; you were special to him,” he said, adding that his late father was a man of uncommon generosity who helped many people quietly without seeking recognition.

He pledged they would uphold their father’s legacy, and continue to serve diligently, while appealing for prayers and support ahead of the burial.

“This loss came suddenly, but we believe he has fulfilled his assignment on earth. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he concluded.

Stay Away From Rivers, Wike Warns APC National Secretary

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Nyesom Wike, has warned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress APC, Ajibola Basiru, to steer clear of Rivers State politics.

Wike issued the warning during his thank you visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State.

He cautioned him against making careless and provocative statements about the state.

Wike’s warning followed comments credited to the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, who had referred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as “the so-called Governor” during Wike’s earlier visit to Khana and Gokana Local Government Areas.

Giadom was also quoted as saying that Fubara could not secure a second term in office without going through Wike.

Reacting to Giadom’s remarks, Basiru described them as unfortunate, insisting that the office of the governor deserved respect regardless of political differences.

“The office of the governor is an exalted position, and whoever is occupying it must be respected, irrespective of whatever political differences you have.”

Wike, however, fired back, warning the APC national secretary to desist from meddling in Rivers State politics, declaring the state a “no-go area” for political interference.

He cautioned that those who failed to heed the warning could face serious consequences, urging Basiru to learn from the experiences of others who had attempted similar actions in the past.

“Let me warn those who come to Rivers State, because you have heard that we have N600bn, you come here, you collect, and you open your mouth to talk anyhow.

“I say it here, take this message to your National Secretary, leave Rivers State alone. Go and ask those who have done it before. Don’t take our support for Mr President for granted. You have to be careful with statements you make.

“Today, you are enjoying in Osun, you don’t know those who did the work. You are opening your mouth to talk about Rivers State. Anything you see, take it.

Ngozi Okolie Meets Youth Leaders, Reaffirms Commitment to Grassroots Development

By
Hill Nigeria
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The member representing Aniocha Oshimili federal constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Ngozi Okolie has assured youth leaders from his constituency of quality representation.

He made this known during a one-on-one meeting with community youths from his constituency at his residence in Asaba.

He promised them of more impact of his representation at the National Assembly, adding that he would like to touch every community.

Hon. Okolie outlined his achievements, which were Legislative Contributions (Bills & Motions) for the protection for Loan Holders; upgrade of Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba into a full-fledged Federal University; upgrade the Onicha-Olona Model School (formerly the Onicha-Olona Teacher Training College) into a full Federal College of Education; Advocacy for the revitalization of Ogwashi-Uku Water Project; Toyota Assembly Plant Initiative; Formally moved for the creation of additional political wards (specifically Aniocha North 2) to ensure fairer representation and closer governance for the people; facilitated training sessions and empowered more than 200 constituents in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE); provided direct financial grants to over 300 constituents for small-scale business expansion and sustainability; distribution of fertilizers to farmers across the constituency to improve crop yields and support local food security; provided direct school assistance to over 300 students across the four Local Government Areas (Aniocha North/South and Oshimili North/South; distributed over 30,000 exercise notebooks to primary and secondary students to ease the financial burden on parents.

He also highlighted the distribution of desks and chairs to selected schools in Oshimili South and Oshimili North; ongoing renovation of selected primary and secondary schools across all four Local Government Areas. Project completed at Aboh-Ogwashi, including the facilitation of a WAEC center and donation of laboratory materials; provision of Community Hubs; Construction of new roads in the Asaba region has been completed; Ongoing installation of solar street lights across Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili North, and Oshimili South to enhance security and nighttime trade.; Ongoing construction of a 1,000-capacity pavilion at the permanent site of the Palace of the Asagba of Asaba; facilitated the inclusion of the Akwukwu-Igbo Civic Centre in the budget (planning stage); support for Senior Citizens; Healthcare; Annual distribution of rice and food items during Christmas and Salah celebrations as some of his achievements since he became their lawmaker.

he said it was paramount to interface with the youth leaders so as to inform them on the effort made to the communities instead of just talking to the party leaders only and of course, if you reach the youths in the community, you have reached the whole community”.

Some of the leaders who spoke with Journalists after the meeting, commended the initiative of Hon Okolie and urged him not to relent in interfacing with them so as to keep them abreast of his performance.

2026: Delta State Governor Felicitates Deltans On New Year, Reaffirms Commitment To More Devt

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm and heart-felt felicitations to Deltans as they usher in the Year 2026. He expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His protection, grace and sustaining presence over the people and the state throughout the past year.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor described the New Year as a season of renewed hope, fresh beginnings and collective responsibility.

He urged citizens to draw strength from the lessons of the past and look forward to the future with optimism, courage and unity of purpose.

The Governor acknowledged the sacrifices, resilience and patience displayed by Deltans, noting that the modest but impactful gains recorded across key sectors of the state were made possible by the people’s enduring spirit, peaceful disposition and shared commitment to progress.

Governor Oborevwori assured that the pains, hopes and aspirations of the people remained at the heart of his administration’s policies, reaffirming that in the New Year, government would deepen its focus on good governance, infrastructural renewal, job creation, youth empowerment, enhanced security and inclusive economic growth in line with the MORE Agenda.

He called on all residents to continue to shun violence, embrace peaceful coexistence and uphold the values of hard work, tolerance and patriotism, stressing that enduring peace remained the strongest foundation upon which sustainable development, prosperity and social harmony thrives.

The Governor appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration with the government, noting that the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Delta State must be pursued as a shared responsibility.

While wishing Deltans a prosperous, peaceful and fulfilling New Year, Governor Oborevwori expressed renewed faith in the collective destiny of the state, assuring that his administration would remain steadfast in delivering people-oriented policies and projects aimed at improving the quality of life of all Deltans and positioning Delta State firmly on a path of sustainable growth, hope and shared prosperity.

Resident Doctors Vows Nationwide Strike, Accuses FG Neglecting Agreements

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike should the Federal Government fail to implement the memorandum of understanding (MoU) earlier reached with the association.
In a statement, NARD disclosed that its National Executive Council (NEC) was holding an emergency meeting to decide on its next line of action under the slogan, “TICS 2.0 – No implementation, no going back.”
The association noted that Friday marked the second day after the expiration of the agreed deadline for the implementation of the NARD–Federal Government MoU.

Trump Administration Halts Almost 7,000 Minnesota Borrowers Amid Suspected $400m COVID-era Loan Fraud

By
Hill Nigeria
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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has suspended about 6,900 Minnesota borrowers after identifying nearly $400 million in suspected fraudulent PPP and EIDL loans issued during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said those involved will be barred from future SBA programs, with cases referred for prosecution and repayment.

The SBA also halted over $5.5 million in annual federal support to Minnesota SBA resource partners and linked at least $2.5 million in loans to a Somali-based fraud scheme in Minneapolis.

Loeffler accused Minnesota officials of failing to act, noting that about $430 million tied to roughly 13,000 loans was flagged as potentially fraudulent but still funded, with some later forgiven

Kenneth Okonkwo Tag Obidients Yet To Join ADC as ‘disObidients’ 

By
Hill Nigeria
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Ahead of the 2027 elections, Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo has called on Peter Obi supporters to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) .

Okonkwo, an ADC Chieftain, described the Obidients who had not joined the party as disObidents during his appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.

“When I was in the Labour Party, I said it was a tactical mistake, telling your followers they can join all political parties, and I’m very glad that my brother, Peter Obi, has changed the tactic.

“If you listen to his interview on X space, he said all the obidients should go and register as members of the ADC.

“So if you are an obidient and you’re not in the ADC, sorry, you’re not an obidient, you are a disobidient.

“Anybody you see in the ADC is allowed to get into the ADC on one condition: you must be a true democrat. One thing ADC will not compromise on is internal democracy and living on the tenets of democracy,” he said.

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