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Court Lifts Suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has nullified the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and ordered her immediate reinstatement to the National Assembly.

The court, in a ruling delivered today, declared the six-month suspension imposed on the lawmaker by the Nigerian Senate as “excessive and unconstitutional,” citing violations of statutory provisions governing legislative conduct.

The presiding judge said that the action of the Senate was unconstitutional.

The court while refering to Section 14(2) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, which stipulates that a member of a legislative house cannot be suspended for more than 14 days, as it was beyond its legal authority by suspending Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months.

The Justice further ruled that the Senate’s action amounted to a breach of legislative due process and a violation of the lawmaker’s constitutional rights to representation and participation in parliamentary affairs.

 

World Debate Championship: Delta Students Steer Nigeria To Victory In Doha

Students from Delta State, representing Nigeria, have emerged winners at the World School Debate Championship held in Doha, Qatar.

The students whom upon their victory at the national championship organized by the Presidential Schools Debate in Nigeria, under the Presidency, were made to represent the country  defeating some of the best young debaters from around the globe.

They secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory in the first round and went on to deliver a clean sweep with a 3–0 win in the final round.

The combined 5–1 aggregate score saw them crowned overall champions of the tournament, after the Nigerian students advanced to the finals against teams from the State of Chicago, USA, and Qatar.

Their success has lifted national pride and cemented the state’s standing as a hub of academic and intellectual excellence.

Their victory has been widely celebrated across the country, particularly in state, where education continues to receive strategic support under Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.

Education stakeholders and members of the public have hailed the students’ feat as an inspiration to young Nigerians and a strong affirmation of the importance of continued investment in education, critical thinking, and youth empowerment.

Before their departure for Doha, the governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori during their visit to his office had offered words of encouragement and prayers, expressing confidence in their ability to make the state and the nation proud.

The Nigerian team from Delta State were, Wisdom Chukwuma of Government College, Ughelli; Otorvo Uyoyou of Alegbo Secondary School, Effurun; Abraham Honour of Okpaka Secondary School, Okpaka; Ekhamateh Splendour of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba; and Alika Daniel of Utagba-Ogbe Grammar School, Kwale.

RERO TV Marks 5th Anniversary With Grand Celebration in Sapele

RERO TV, one of Delta State’s fast-rising online media platforms, will celebrate its 5th anniversary on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, with a grand event at the Wetland Event Centre in Sapele, Delta State. The celebration marks a significant milestone in the platform’s growth from a modest initiative to a widely respected voice in community journalism.

Founded in early 2020 by Mr. Akporero Henry, RERO TV was born during a period of deep personal and professional uncertainty. From volunteering in Lagos without financial support to returning to Sapele with just ₦6,000 and a bold vision, Henry launched the channel with minimal tools but maximum resolve. With the encouragement of his mother, elder brother, and the mentorship of notable journalists in Delta State, he began covering local events with nothing more than a mobile phone and an unwavering passion for storytelling.

In just five years, RERO TV has grown into a credible and trusted news outlet, promoting grassroots development, youth inclusion, and the telling of untold community stories. Its influence now extends beyond Sapele, contributing to media development across Delta State and parts of southern Nigeria.

The anniversary celebration is expected to attract media professionals, traditional leaders, civil society actors, and key community stakeholders. Okakuro Dr. Anthony Aghogho Owumi, the Omamigho of Okpe Kingdom, will serve as Chairman of the occasion, while the Special Guest of Honour is His Royal Majesty, Udurhie I, Ph.D., the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom.

Human rights activist and development advocate, Comrade Lucky Ighoyota, will deliver the keynote address, expected to focus on the role of local media in fostering inclusive development and amplifying grassroots voices.

As part of the ceremony, RERO TV will honour selected Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) with special awards for their sustained contributions to social justice, humanitarian service, and community empowerment. This gesture, according to the organisers, underscores RERO TV’s dedication to strengthening partnerships that drive positive change.

Speaking ahead of the event, founder and CEO, Mr. Akporero Henry, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who have supported the platform’s journey so far.

“This journey has been one of faith, sacrifice, and purpose,” he said. “From recording events with just a mobile phone to building a brand that now resonates with thousands, I remain thankful to everyone who believed in us. This 5th anniversary is a celebration of grace, grit, and the power of community.”

The anniversary event is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM and is open to the general public.

Local Govt Service Commission To Commence July 2025 Promotion Interview On July 8

The Delta State Local Government Service Commission will on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 to Wednesday, July 16, 2025 conduct a promotion Interview for over eight hundred and sixty staff of the Unified Local Government Service

In a circular letter signed for the Commission Chairman, Hon Joseph Otirhue by the Deputy Director of administration of the Commission, Mrs Chukwudumebi Nwamu, the interview will take place at the Olorogun Felix Ibru Secretariat in Asaba.

Those to attend on the first day of the interview, Tuesday July 8, 2025 were the Administrative Officer Cadre, Accountant Cadre, Information Officer Cadre, Assistant Information Officer Cadre, Programme Analyst Cadre, Planning Officer  Cadre, Town Planning  Officer Cadre Data Processing Officer, Confidential Secretary Cadre, Secretarial Assistant Cadre and Store Officer Cadre.

While those in the Community Development Officer Cadre, Community Development Inspector Cadre, Social welfare Officer Cadre, Education Officer Cadre, Assistant Education Officer Cadre, Executive Officer (Admin)Cadre and Executive Officer (Accounts) Cadre shall be attended to on the second day.

The third day of the exercise will witness the presence of those in the Nursing Officer Cadre, Medical Records officer Cadre, Pharmacists Cadre, Medical Records Technician Cadre, Agricultural Officer Cadre, Forest Officer Cadre, Legislative Officer Cadre, Legislative Assistant Cadre, Revenue  Superintendent Cadre, Computer Assistant Cadre; while Community Health Officer Cadre, Community Health Extension Worker Cadre, Health Educator Cadre, Health Educator Technician Cadre and Food Scientific Officer Cadre, Environmental Health Officer Cadre, Environmental Health Technician Cadre, Environmental Health Assistant Cadre and Assistant Dietitian Cadre shall be interviewed on the fourth day.

Those in the Engineer Cadre, Technical Officer Cadre, Works Superintendent Cadre and Senior Deck Staff Cadre shall be interviewed on the 5th day of the exercise being the July 16, 2025.

Invited officers have been advised to ensure that they are present on their scheduled date as there will be no consideration for a different date.

Also noted in the letter directives to the interviewee to appear with all their necessary credentials as nursing mothers are advised to leave their newborn babies and toddlers at home or daycare centres before coming to the Commission.

The officers were informed to comply to the civil service dress code by dressing properly as indecent dressing would not be tolerated.

2025 CIVIL SERVICE WEEK: Oborevwori Restates Commitment To SDGs, Service Excellence

As Delta State marks the 2025 Public Service Week, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emphasized the need for accelerated public service delivery to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Speaking at the public lecture organized by the Office of the Head of Service, with the theme “Five Years to 2030: Accelerating Public Service Delivery for a Sustainable Future”, the Governor stressed the importance of building institutional capacity, leveraging knowledge, and enhancing accountability to drive development.

Governor Oborevwori maintained that the state is committed to transforming the public service through robust human capital development under his administration’s MORE Agenda.

He assured civil servants that his government remains firmly dedicated to their welfare. “We are investing in new skills, modern practices, and behavioral change to ensure that our workforce is well-equipped to meet both present and future challenges. We must accelerate public service delivery and build a sustainable future for Delta State,” he said.

He noted that his administration had set a precedent by hosting a dinner for civil servants, demonstrating its commitment to their well-being. The Governor also highlighted Delta’s position among the first states in Nigeria to implement the new minimum wage, reinforcing his government’s dedication to improving citizens’ lives. “I urge every public servant to reciprocate this commitment with greater loyalty, dedication, and unwavering focus on achieving the government’s objectives,” Oborevwori added.

On the lecture’s theme, he reiterated the pivotal role of the civil service in achieving transformation, expressing confidence that with the right tools, mindset, and leadership, Delta would meet and surpass its goals.

In a remarkable show of support for excellence, Governor Oborevwori awarded two outstanding winners of the Public Service Quiz Competition a cash prize of N500,000 each, an act that celebrates merit and underscores his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in the public service.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Dr. Minnie Oseji, outlined the week’s activities, including a broadcast, Jumat service, online quiz, public lecture, golf tournament, and thanksgiving service. She noted that most quiz winners were from the Post Primary Education Board, prompting calls for future category separation.

She also highlighted significant strides in civil service reform, such as the near-completion of a 20-point agenda aligned with the MORE Agenda, adding that efforts were underway to restore a 10% IGR plow-back to revenue-generating MDAs.

She said digitization, performance monitoring, and improved training frameworks have also been introduced to modernize the service and expressed optimism that with sustained reforms, enhanced transparency, and security, Delta State will attract more foreign investment.

ANTI-OPEN GRAZING LAW: Delta Activist Mulade Laments Non-Implementation, Says State Government Lacks Political Will

Renowned Delta State peace and environmental justice advocate, Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, has lamented the deliberate neglect and non-implementation of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law 2021, alleging it had been used to only score political credit, while vulnerable masses, especially farmers, were abandoned to their fate.

Speaking on the law, Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West council area, stated that, close to four years after its passage, the non-implementation of the law is an indictment on the government in its inability to safeguarding the lives of Deltans.

He said, “In 2021, the Delta State government took a politically motivated and significant step towards addressing the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers by signing the Anti-Open Grazing and Prohibition Law.

“This legislation was designed to curb the rampant issues associated with open grazing, which has been a source of tension, violence, and insecurity in many parts of Nigeria. However, as we approach the fourth anniversary of this law, it is evident that the Delta State government has failed to implement it effectively, leaving citizens vulnerable to the very crises the law was intended to prevent.”

Mulade reiterated the importance of the law in not only curbing violence but enhancing agricultural productivity and economic stability.

“The context of the law is very clear: Open grazing has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and southern regions, where clashes between herders and farmers have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread insecurity.

“The Anti-Open Grazing Law was introduced as a proactive measure to regulate livestock movement, protect farmlands, and promote peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers. By prohibiting open grazing, the law aimed to reduce conflicts and enhance agricultural productivity, thereby fostering economic stability in the region,” he stressed.

The National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, warned of the consequences of the non-implementation of the anti-grazing law to include hunger, insecurity, violence, crimes, and the lack of public trust in the government among others.

“Despite the law’s noble intentions, the Delta State government has not taken the necessary steps because it lacks the political will to enforce it to the detriment of Deltans This lack of implementation has serious implications for the state and its citizens.

“The failure to regulate grazing practices has left farmers vulnerable to the encroachment of cattle on their lands, leading to crop destruction and economic losses. Moreover, the absence of a robust framework to manage herders activities has exacerbated tensions between communities, increasing the likelihood of violent confrontations.

“The situation is further complicated by reports of kidnappings and violent attacks attributed to herders and their accomplices. Citizens have expressed growing concerns about their safety, as these incidents have become alarmingly frequent. The government’s silence on the non-implementation of the law, despite these security challenges, raises questions about its commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of its citizens.

“The failure to implement the Anti-Open Grazing Law not only threatens agricultural productivity but also poses a significant risk to the overall security of Delta State. The lack of effective governance in this regard undermines public trust in the government and its ability to maintain law and order,” he added.

Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel Hails Dr. Nelson Egware’s Elevation as Executive Assistant on Media

The Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has extended warm congratulations to Dr. Nelson Egware on his well-deserved elevation to the position of Executive Assistant (EA) on Media to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

In a statement on Tuesday July 1, 2025, jointly signed by Kenneth Orusi and Michael Odiah, Chairman and Secretary of the Chapel respectively, the body described Dr. Egware’s elevation as a “commendable reward for competence, loyalty, and years of dedicated service to the advancement of strategic communication and professional journalism in the state.”

The Chapel noted that Dr. Egware has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, media intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to public service communication traits while serving as Senior Special Assistant (SSA), on Media, that have not only earned him the respect of his peers but have also contributed to the positive image of the Oborevwori-led administration.

“Dr. Egware’s elevation to Executive Assistant on Media is not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of Governor Oborevwori’s appreciation for merit and professionalism.

“It is our belief that this new role will further enable him to deploy his rich experience in journalism, public relations, and strategic communication for the greater good of Delta State,” the statement read.

The ICC praised Dr. Egware for his media leadership roles as Publisher of Truth Reporters, Editor of Veracity Magazine, and Deputy Editor of Delta Revealed, noting that his scholarly contributions and media advocacy have set a high standard for ethical journalism and public information dissemination in the state.

While wishing him success in his new role, the Chapel encouraged Dr. Egware to continue being a shining example to young media professionals and to maintain the same spirit of excellence and integrity that has characterized his service over the years.

“The Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel is proud of your achievements and stands in solidarity with you as you take on this new responsibility.

“We are confident that you will continue to make the media community and Delta State proud.”

The Chapel also commended Governor Oborevwori for his inclusive approach to governance and for identifying and elevating talents based on merit and performance.

Gov. Oborevwori Elevates Egware To Executive Assistant

.Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the elevation of Dr. Nelson Egware to the position of Executive Assistant, Media, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to strategic communication and his contributions to the advancement of the state.

Prior to this appointment, Dr. Egware served as Senior Special Assistant, Media, where he distinguished himself through impactful media engagements in support of the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.

A multi-disciplinary professional, Egware is an accomplished accountant, banker, journalist, and media strategist. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Delta State University, Abraka in 2004. He began his career at the defunct New Nigeria Bank (now Unity Bank) in 2005, before joining Zenith Bank Plc in 2007 as a Senior Executive Assistant in Relationship Management. He later transitioned to academia as a pioneer lecturer in Accounting at Delta State Marine Polytechnic, Burutu, in 2011.

In 2015, he took a leave of absence from the Polytechnic to serve in the Delta State Government as Special Assistant, Media, marking the beginning of his journey into public communication and governance.

Dr. Egware holds several academic qualifications, including a Master’s Degree in Banking and Finance (2008), MBA (2010), and MSc in Accounting (2015), all from Delta State University and the University of Benin. He recently earned a Ph.D. in Accounting (2025) from the University of Benin. As a certified journalist, he also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism (2017) from the International Institute of Journalism, in collaboration with the University of Maiduguri.

He has completed several professional trainings, including certificates in Digital Journalism and Editing from Reuters, and in Fact-Checking and Misinformation Detection from the West Africa Broadcast and Media Academy (WABMA), supported by the U.S. Consulate, Lagos.

Egware is a Fellow and Council Member of the Society for West African Internal Audit Practitioners (SWAIAP), where he serves as Director of Media and Publications. He is also a Distinguished Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA), and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Economists of Nigeria (ICEN).

During the 2023 elections, he served as Strategic Communications Liaison Officer for the PDP Presidential Campaign Council in Delta State, and also played a key role in the Media and Publicity Committee of the State Governorship Campaign Council.

Dr. Egware is a certified digital journalist (Reuters and Meta), member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). He is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Truth Reporters, Editor of Veracity Magazine (published by the Delta State Ministry of Information), and Deputy Editor of Delta Revealed, a publication of the State New Media Office.

An active researcher, Egware has published over 15 scholarly articles and has been cited 21 times on Google Scholar, with notable indices in academic research. He recently co-authored “200 Most Outstanding Deltans” and “Hope and Fulfillment”, a collection of essays reflecting on Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s eight-year administration.

A native of Emevor in Isoko North Local Government Area, Dr. Egware is widely admired for his intellect, discipline, and commitment to truth. He is a vocal advocate for youth inclusion in governance and has mentored numerous young communicators across the state.

His elevation is widely seen as a reward for loyalty, competence, and a reflection of Governor Oborevwori’s inclusive leadership style. As Executive Assistant, Media, Dr. Egware is expected to take on an expanded role in driving the Governor’s communication strategy as the administration intensifies implementation of its Renewed Hope for M.O.R.E. Agenda.

Ned Nwoko Celebrates Dein Of Agbor At 48

The Senator representing Delta North, Hon. Prince Ned Munir Nwoko has felicitated with the Dein of Agbor, His Royal Majesty, Benjamin Ikenchukwu, Keagborekuzi I, on the occasion of his 48th birthday.

In a goodwill message, Senator Nwoko described the monarch as a symbol of grace, wisdom, and strength, whose reign has brought pride and honour not only to Agbor kingdom but to the entire Anioma region.

According to the Delta North senator, “The Dein has been a consistent pillar of support in all that concerns our people. Whether it’s cultural matters, youth development, or the ongoing advocacy for Anioma State, His Majesty has never failed to show up for his people. I thank him sincerely for this.”

Senator Nwoko also recalled the Dein’s historic ascension to the throne at a young age, and how, over the years, he has grown into a respected traditional ruler who remains deeply loved by his people and admired across the country.

“At 48, he continues to carry the crown with humility, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility. I am proud of his leadership and all that he represents,” he added.

The Senator prayed for long life, good health, and greater wisdom for the royal father, noting that his presence and guidance remain a blessing to the Anioma people.

Benue Assembly Thanksgiving: Delta Speaker Guwor Calls For Unity, Condemns Violence 

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, and National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has called for greater commitment of stakeholders to advancing Nigeria.

Rt Hon Guwor spoke on Sunday during the 2nd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service of the 10th Assembly of the Benue State House of Assembly, held at St. Mark’s Parish, Apir, Makurdi, the state capital.

Rt Hon Guwor who was a special guest in the benediction service, said critical stakeholders, including State Houses of Assembly must stand together for national unity and development, expressing happiness that democracy has come to stay in Nigeria.

He congratulated his colleague in the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, Principal Officers and members of the House for the successful session of the 10th Assembly and their decision to appreciate God with a special thanksgiving service.

Describing his presence in the service as an honor to celebrate with the Lawmakers on the achieved milestone, Rt Hon Guwor commended the Benue Legislators for their dedication to effective representation, oversight and legislation.

The Delta Speaker who was adorned in Tiv traditional attire in commemoration of the visit, wished the Benue State Assembly continued success and impact in the next legislative session of the House.

A statement made available to newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, CPS Nkem Nwaeke, revealed that the occasion afforded the Speaker an opportunity to console with the government and people of Benue State over the recent killings in part of the state.

Rt Hon Guwor condemned any form of violence and called for a stop to such sad incidents, even as he prayed to God to comfort families of those that lost their lives and to restore permanent peace, law and order to Benue state.

He also prayed to God to grant the soul of those that died eternal rest.

The Speaker was accompanied by the Member Representing Ughelli South Constituency in the House, Hon Festus Utuama and some of his political aides.

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