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Equity, Party Stability, and Continuity: Why Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie Deserves Another Term

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Hill Nigeria
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By Mamuzo Gabriel

By all standards of fairness, justice, party cohesion, and political balance, Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie, Member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, deserves the full support of his people and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to return to the House of Representatives for a second term in 2027.

As the APC prepares for its upcoming party congresses, it is important to remind ourselves that all leaders, especially those elected into public office must be actively involved and carried along in party affairs.

Members of the House of Representatives are the visible face of the party at the national level. They defend party policies, project its image, and carry its banner in the National Assembly. The relationship between the party and its elected representatives must therefore be mutual and balanced.

The same way elected officials need the party, the party equally needs them. Equity, recognition, and inclusion must guide our actions. No individual or group interest should be allowed to override collective interest, as doing so could destabilize our great party, the APC.

Party strength is built on fairness, inclusion, and respect for all stakeholders.

A Child of Grace, Divinely Positioned

Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie is truly a child of grace, divinely positioned for leadership.

The Holy Scripture reminds us:

“So they fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera”— Judges 5:20 and again, “Touch not my anointed, and do my prophet no harm”— Psalm 105:15

When God chooses a man and the people confirm that choice, wisdom demands that we work with such grace not against it.

One Constituency, Four Local Governments

The Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency is made up of four local governments:

Aniocha North

Aniocha South

Oshimili North

Oshimili South

Historically, Aniocha North and Aniocha South have enjoyed long years of representation in the House of Representatives. Aniocha North alone has produced respected leaders such as Hon. Ndudi Elumelu and Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko, while Aniocha South has produced Hon. Onyemaechi Juan (Ada Anioma) and Hon. Pascal Adigwe.

Collectively, Aniocha North and South occupied this seat for about six terms, while Oshimili North and South waited patiently for their turn.

Today, that long-awaited opportunity has finally come through Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie of Oshimili South.

The Case for Equity and Justice

Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie has been in the House of Representatives for just about two years and eight months.

To deny Oshimili North and South the opportunity to complete their fair share of representation would amount to injustice, imbalance, and political exclusion.

Equity demands continuity.

Justice demands fairness.

Political balance demands that Oshimili North and South be allowed to complete their turn just as Aniocha North and South once did.

It is also important to note that Aniocha North currently holds the Senate seat for Delta North. For another Aniocha candidate to contest the House of Representatives seat at the same time would amount to over-concentration of power, which goes against the spirit of fairness, brotherhood, and understanding that has sustained this constituency over the years.

Continuity Means Capacity

Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie is no longer a freshman legislator. His experience at the National Assembly has matured, his networks have expanded, and his understanding of legislative processes has deepened.

Returning him for a second term will:

Strengthen federal presence in Aniocha/Oshimili

Improve access to committees, projects, and national influence

Position him for strategic leadership roles such as committee chairmanship, House leadership, and other key national responsibilities

Replacing him now with a new entrant would mean starting all over again, losing valuable momentum and influence already built.

A Grassroots Leader with Vision

Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie is a politician tested from the grassroots, nurtured by the people, and refined by national exposure. His leadership style reflects inclusiveness, humility, loyalty to party ideals, and commitment to service.

A Call to Oshimili North and South

This is a defining moment. Oshimili North and South must rally together, queue behind Ogbueshi Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie, and protect this historic opportunity.

Let us not allow selfish interests or internal divisions to rob us of what equity has finally delivered. As the Scripture says:

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven”— Ecclesiastes 3:1

This is Oshimili’s season.

Supporting Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie for a second term is not just about one man, it is about party unity, justice, balance, continuity, and the collective future of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.

For equity.

For experience.

For party stability.

For progress.

Hon. Ngozi Lawrence Okolie deserves our full support to return in 2027.

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Court Sentence Nigerian Man Who Murder UK Girlfriend to Life Imprisonment

By
Hill Nigeria
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A Nottingham Crown Court has handed a life sentence to 40-year-old Adedapo Adegbola for the murder of his former girlfriend, 23-year-old university student, Steph Irons.

According to Irish Reports on Thursday, Adegbola admitted to killing Irons at her Mapperley residence on October 21, 2025, following the end of their brief relationship.

The court heard that the couple had met while working together and dated for a short period before separating.

Prosecutors revealed that Adegbola became fixated on Irons after the breakup, purchasing two knives online and travelling to her home by taxi.

He reportedly attacked her outside as she took out the trash, then forced his way into the house, stabbing her multiple times.

Irons’ colleagues became alarmed after receiving distressing messages from her phone, prompting police to investigate.

Officers discovered her body in the living room, where she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the murder, Adegbola allegedly fled, discarding bloodstained clothing and other evidence along streets in Mapperley and Carlton.

Nottinghamshire Police said he travelled through Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield, and Hull before eventually surrendering.

Although he declined to answer questions during questioning, investigators were able to reconstruct his movements before and after the attack.

The court sentenced Adegbola to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 25 years.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, the lead investigator, described Irons as a “kind and compassionate young woman” whose life ended in “terrifying circumstances.”

He added that Adegbola made no effort to seek medical attention for her and instead chose to flee while disposing of evidence.

In a victim impact statement, Irons’ mother said her daughter’s death had left the family “devastated.” She described the student, who had aspired to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology, as loving, caring, and full of promise.

Insecurity: Unseal Amotekun In Osun State  Adeleke Tells Egbetokun

By
Hill Nigeria
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Following the rising insecurity across the country, the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has asked the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun to unseal Amotekun offices in the state to enable the outfit to resume operations.

In a statement signed on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Olawale Rasheed, the governor, Adeleke said the continued shutdown of Amotekun had weakened Osun’s security architecture and exposed rural and border communities to threats, especially with increasing cases of banditry and kidnapping in neighbouring Kwara state.

The governor said Osun is currently “handicapped in its security response” because Amotekun offices remain sealed, while some senior officers of the corps have been detained without trial for several months.

He said Amotekun had developed specialised expertise in tackling security challenges in rural and border areas, adding that the absence of the outfit had created a vacuum now being exploited by criminal elements.

Adeleke urged the IGP to either charge the detained Amotekun operatives over the alleged killings in the Akinlalu community to court or release them, while also demanding the immediate unsealing of the corps’ offices.

According to the governor, any further delay could endanger rural populations and increase the risk of criminal infiltration into the state.

“I call on the inspector-general of police to unseal Amotekun and allow its operatives to secure my people across the grassroots,” the statement reads.

“Those officers in detention should be charged to court after several months of incarceration. Any further delay in the unsealing of Amotekun will further jeopardise the safety and security of our people.” .

Utomi at 70: Experts Call for Nigerian Investment in Oil Sector

By
Hill Nigeria
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Critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s economy converged on Asaba, Delta State, today to chart pathways out of poverty in Nigeria and across Africa, as renowned political economist and management expert, Professor Pat Utomi, marked his 70th birthday.

The high-level colloquium, organised by the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL) in honour of the septuagenarian, brought together leading figures from academia, traditional institutions, politics, and the oil and gas industry.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Obi Alfred Achebe; 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; Founder and Group Managing Director of Rainoil Limited, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie; and other notable petroleum industry leaders including Dr. Austin Avuru, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, and Chief Lemon Kpea.

The event, themed “Overcoming Poverty in Africa: Did We Get It Wrong? What Next?”, attracted academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders, upstream and downstream oil and gas operators, as well as political leaders from across the country.

Setting the tone for the discourse, Professor Utomi, a professor at the Lagos Business School, said his decision to celebrate his 70th birthday in Delta State, in addition to Lagos, was deliberate—aimed at creating opportunities for young people in his home state.

“I decided to bring the lecture to Delta State so that young people around here can see opportunities they can pursue and live more meaningful lives,” Utomi said, noting that the lecture series was designed to expose participants to business and employment prospects within the oil and gas industry.

Reflecting on his greatest achievements at 70, the celebrated economist attributed his journey to divine grace, stating simply that “the grace of God drives it all.”

Earlier, a panel discussion on opportunities in the oil industry—moderated by Professor Utomi—featured industry experts who examined prospects, operations, and challenges in the sector, with references to Nigeria and Ghana.

Speaking at the panel, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie, a production engineer and Group Managing Director of Rainoil Limited, described the oil and gas industry as highly lucrative, with significant opportunities for Nigerians in both the upstream and downstream sectors.

Ogbechie urged Nigerians to take advantage of the sector, particularly the downstream segment, which he described as the “lowest-hanging fruit” for investors.

“I have seen significant transformation in Nigerians taking advantage of opportunities in the oil and gas sector to invest and take control,” he said.

He recalled that over three decades ago, downstream operations were dominated by international oil companies such as Shell, British Petroleum, Mobil, Total, and Texaco, noting that today, Nigerian companies have largely taken over.

“Today, many Nigerians have stepped forward to take control. The only international oil company still playing in the downstream sector is Total,” Ogbechie added.

In his remarks, Spokesman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Isaac Balami, described the colloquium as a landmark event, celebrating not just the age of Professor Utomi but the depth of his influence.

“We celebrate not only the years of Professor Pat Utomi, but the depth of impact within them—his mentorship, moral clarity, patriotism, and enduring faith in the potential of people and institutions,” Balami said, adding that Utomi’s legacy lives on through the Centre for Values in Leadership and the many lives it has transformed.

The celebration later moved to Ibusa town in Delta State, where a thanksgiving mass was held at a Catholic Church, with Nigerians gathering in large numbers to thank God for the life and 70th birthday of Professor Pat Utomi.

If you want this tightened for print, adapted for online headlines, or localized for a Delta-based newspaper, say the word and I’ll tune it perfectly.

Delta State Governor Mourns Late DBS Broadcaster, Vivian Nkechika

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed profound grief over the passing of a Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba presenter, Miss Vivian Nkechika, describing her death as a devastating blow to the journalism profession and society at large.

Miss Nkechika, an indigene of Ekwuoma in Ika North East Local Government Area, served as an Assistant Manager in the Programmes Department of DBS Asaba. She reportedly passed on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, following complications from a domestic gas explosion.

In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori conveyed his sympathy to the bereaved family, the management and staff of DBS Asaba, media practitioners across the state, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council.

He described the late broadcaster as a committed professional whose work was marked by diligence, ethical conduct, and an unwavering sense of duty.

The Governor noted that her passion for public education, factual reporting, and responsible journalism endeared her to colleagues and earned her wide admiration within the media space.

Oborevwori said: “This is a moment of deep sadness. Delta State has lost a vibrant and principled media practitioner whose voice contributed immensely to informing and enlightening the public.

“Her sudden departure is a profound loss to her family, the media fraternity, and all who value credible journalism.”

Governor Oborevwori prayed for divine strength for her family, friends, and colleagues to endure the painful loss, while also asking God to grant eternal rest to her soul.

“Our hearts go out to all who mourn her passing. May God comfort everyone she left behind and grant her eternal peace,” he said.

Ukah Mourns DBS Staff, Vivian Nkechika

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Mr Patrick Ukah, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Comrade Vivian Nkechika, a staff of the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba, describing her death as a painful loss to the media community in Delta State.

In a condolence message, Ukah said he received the news of Nkechika’s demise with shock and sadness, noting that her passing had created a huge vacuum not only at DBS but also among professionals who had the privilege of working with her.

Speaking on behalf of himself, as well as the management and staff of the DSCTDA, the Director-General extended heartfelt condolences to the General Manager, management, and entire staff of DBS, commiserating with them over what he described as an irreplaceable loss.

Ukah praised the late broadcaster for her professionalism, passion, and dedication to duty, recalling her exceptional skills and energy, particularly in her coverage and presentation of red carpet events at programmes organised by the agency

“Comrade Vivian Nkechika brought life, colour, and excellence to her assignments. Her commitment, eye for detail, and enthusiasm for her work were always evident and admirable,” he said.

The DSCTDA boss also sympathised with the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased, praying that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and asked God to comfort the entire DBS family in this moment of grief.

Dr. Michael Nwoko Mourns Veteran Journalist Vivian Nkechika

By
Hill Nigeria
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Following the death of veteran journalist and broadcaster, Vivian Nkechika, who passed away on February 4, 2026, Dr. Michael Nwoko, FRSPH, in a heartfelt tribute, described the late Nkechika as a dedicated professional whose commitment to duty and passion for public communication left an indelible mark on broadcasting and media development in the state.

Vivian Nkechika was widely known for her impactful service at the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), where she brought excellence, professionalism, and vibrancy to the airwaves. Beyond broadcasting, she played a key role in public health communication as Head of Media, Delta State Contributory Health Commission, a position she held from 2016 to 2019, helping to promote awareness and understanding of the state’s health insurance scheme.

Her media expertise also proved invaluable in the political communication space. From 2018 until her passing, she served as Head of Electronic Media to Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko, where she was instrumental in building and strengthening a strategic media team.

Recalling his last encounter with the late journalist, Dr. Nwoko said he led a delegation from the Senator’s office to visit her at the Asaba Specialist Hospital on February 3, 2026, where she was receiving treatment following a gas explosion incident.

“Despite her condition, she looked strong, cheerful, and determined to recover quickly and return to work,” he said, noting that the news of her death came as a profound shock.

Dr. Nwoko added that it took him time to gather the courage to put his grief into words, describing Nkechika as a rare professional whose life and service were worthy of emulation.

While mourning her sudden departure, he said her family, colleagues, and the larger media community can take solace in the legacy she left behind.

“She lived a life of impact and dedication. We pray that her soul rests in power,” he concluded.

Vivian Nkechika is remembered as a consummate broadcaster, media strategist, and public servant whose contributions will not be forgotten.

You Examplify Solid Support To Your Husband,  Ned Nwoko Tells First Lady, As He Celebrates Her At 56

By
Hill Nigeria
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Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations, has extended warm congratulations to the Wife of the Governor and First Lady of Delta State, Her Excellency Dame Tobore Oborevwori, on the occasion of her 56th birthday anniversary.

In a congratulatory message released in Abuja, Senator Nwoko described the First Lady as a “devoted spouse and a pillar of unwavering support to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whose steadfast presence continues to reinforce the administration’s stability”

The federal lawmaker noted that “Dame Tobore Oborevwori embodies a calm, affectionate and dignified disposition”, which, he said, has contributed significantly to the Governor’s confidence and composure in steering the affairs of Delta State.

According to Senator Nwoko, the First Lady has endeared herself to Deltans through her peaceful demeanour, compassion, humility, and virtuous character, particularly in her outreach to the downtrodden and vulnerable. He expressed gratitude to God Almighty for her “gracious posture and exemplary conduct” ,while wishing her continued good health, longevity and prosperity.

“Today, on behalf of the people of Delta North Senatorial District, Anioma, I gladly join the First Family of Delta State and our Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in celebrating our First Lady, Her Excellency Dame Tobore Oborevwori, on the milestone of her 56th birthday.

“Dame Tobore is a woman of deep faith ,passionately committed to uplifting the less privileged, while remaining fully aligned with her husband’s vision and destiny. Her ability to keep the home front strong have been instrumental to the Governor’s leadership journey.

“As she marks this special day, I wholeheartedly extend my sincere wishes for greater accomplishments, renewed strength and deeper fulfilment in her service to Delta State and humanity at large,” Senator Nwoko concluded.

Oborevwori Felicitate With Tantita MD, Keston Pondi At 49

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm felicitations to the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Engr.) Keston Ebimobowei Pondi, on the occasion of his 49th birth anniversary.

Oborevwori in a congratulatory message issued in Asaba on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, praised Pondi for his outstanding leadership and invaluable contributions to peace, security, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.

He commended the Tantita Managing Director for the pivotal role his company has continued to play in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure, noting that the enhanced protection of national assets has significantly contributed to improved crude oil production, revenue stability, and economic growth.

He described High Chief Pondi as an astute professional, and a committed patriot whose dedication to duty has earned him respect across the Niger Delta and beyond.

The Governor further acknowledged Pondi’s philanthropic disposition, noting that his humanitarian interventions and support for community development initiatives have positively impacted lives, particularly among youths and vulnerable groups in the region.

Governor Oborevwori said; “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate High Chief (Engr.) Keston Ebimobowei Pondi on his 49th birthday.

“He has distinguished himself as a dependable partner in the quest for a peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta, and his contributions to national development are worthy of commendation.”

Governor Oborevwori prayed for God’s continued guidance, sound health, and greater achievements for the Tantita boss in the years ahead, expressing confidence that Pondi would continue to render selfless service to the nation and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the Niger Delta.

Delta State Governor Celebrates Wife, Tobore At 56

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt congratulations to his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, as she marks her 56th birth anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori in a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor expressed deep appreciation for the steadfast support and encouragement of his wife over the years, noting that her unwavering commitment and prayers played a significant role in their journey to becoming Delta State’s First Family.

He described Deaconess Tobore as a devout and compassionate mother whose impact on society has been profound, particularly through her constant prayers and moral support for the state and their family.

The Governor also commended her humanitarian efforts through her pet initiative, the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’, which he said has continued to touch lives, with special attention to vulnerable members of the society, widows and elderly, including children living with autism.

Governor Oborevwori said: “On behalf of our family, as well as the government and people of Delta State, I warmly felicitate my dear wife, Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on the joyful occasion of her 56th birthday.

“She has remained a shining example of dedication, compassion, and godly values, not only to our children but to the entire state.

“As she celebrates this milestone, it is my earnest prayer, and that of our children, that God will continually endow her with strength, wisdom, and clarity of purpose as she carries out the demanding responsibilities of the Office of the First Lady of Delta State.”

Governor Oborevwori further expressed his personal admiration for his wife, describing her as a source of daily joy and inspiration.

“You make every day a pleasure with your self-effacing mien, cheerful disposition, love for God, devotion to family, disciplined work ethic, and unwavering service to humanity. I celebrate you today and always. Happy birthday, my love and best friend,” he said.

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