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APC Delta Congress: The Dawn of a Defining Political Era

By Fred Oghenesivbe Esq.

Today, March 3, history beckons in Delta State.

At the iconic Cenotaph in Asaba, the Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convenes its first State Congress following the seismic political realignment that reshaped the state’s power structure, the historic collapse of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) framework in Delta State, into what is today widely acknowledged as the “Great Political Movement,” led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

This is no ordinary congress. It is not merely a routine political exercise. It is the formal unveiling of a new order. At the forefront of this defining moment stands the State Leader of the party and Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori. He will lead party leaders, stakeholders, delegates, and loyal faithful into what promises to be a congress of consolidation, direction, and renewed strength.

Across the globe, politics follows a familiar rhythm; negotiation and compromise, persuasion and principle, strategy and sacrifice. It is often a careful dance: a little to the right, a little to the left. But at its heart, politics is about unity of purpose, strength of structure, and the collective will to win.
Above all, it is about leadership.

The APC in Delta State, under Governor Oborevwori’s stewardship, has demonstrated firmness, clarity of purpose, and a performance-driven promise that resonates with the aspirations of the people. Leadership capacity is not measured by rhetoric alone, but by the ability to unify diverse interests into a formidable political force. In this regard, the Governor has proven both steady and strategic.

This congress carries additional weight. It is the first major gathering since the adoption of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as sole Presidential and Governorship standard-bearers for the forthcoming general elections.

The stakes are unmistakably high.
Today’s decisions will shape tomorrow’s victories. The structures built now will determine the strength with which the party marches into 2027. The message must be clear: we mobilize not for division, but for dominance; not for discord, but for destiny.

As the political pendulum swings, and as it inevitably does, our collective responsibility is to ensure that, whatever the outcome, unity prevails. Democracy within the party must strengthen the party, not strain it. When the ballots are counted and the dust settles, we must embrace the winners, celebrate collective triumph, and close ranks for the battles ahead.

Naturally, conversations have emerged regarding zoning and balance. A significant majority favours the emergence of the State Party Chairman from the South Senatorial District in the spirit of political equilibrium. Others advocate for the North Senatorial District, equally invoking fairness and inclusion.

These debates are healthy. They reflect engagement. They demonstrate ownership. But above preferences and projections stands a guiding principle: fairness, equity, and good conscience. Let the delegates speak. Let majority will prevail. Let justice temper ambition.
When the process is transparent and participatory, legitimacy follows naturally.

Our state party leader, Governor Oborevwori is widely regarded as a bridge-builder, a leader anchored in peace, equity, and sound judgment. Those privileged to have worked closely with him understand his calm deliberation, his consultative approach, and his commitment to justice.

Trust is not demanded; it is earned. Over the years, Governor Oborevwori has earned it. And it is this trust that must guide us today.

No matter how intense the contest, no matter how spirited the campaigns, the end must justify the means; a stronger, united APC poised for overwhelming victory in 2027.

The bigger picture is 2027 general elections. Let us approach this State Congress with open minds and elevated vision. The real contest lies ahead. The ultimate objective is clear: deliver Delta State convincingly for our party and its candidates in 2027.

Structures must be fortified. Grassroots mobilization must deepen. Stakeholders must align. The “Ukodo” symbolic of shared reward and collective participation will surely go round, one way or another. But first, we must sustain unity. Without unity, victory is fragile. With unity, victory is inevitable.

Today is more than a congress. It is a statement of intent. It is the birth of a consolidated political movement determined to redefine Delta’s trajectory.

As delegates gather beneath the Asaba sky at the Cenotaph, they do so not merely as party members, but as architects of a renewed political future.

May this Congress be peaceful. May it be transparent. May it be result-oriented. And may it mark the unmistakable beginning of a new era.

APC — Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.

Peller’s Epic Nigeria State Tour Kick Off Tomorrow

…’The Takeover Begins March 6

The popular Nigerian content creator and TikTok star Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, is set to embark on an exciting nationwide state tour starting tomorrow, Friday, March 6, 2026.

Peller recently shared details of his highly anticipated “Nigeria State Tour” on his social media accounts, listing several states he plans to visit in the first phase of the tour. The itinerary includes a mix of southern and a few northern locations, sparking excitement among fans across the country.

According to posts circulating from Peller’s announcement and fan reposts, the confirmed states for this leg of the tour are; Benin (Edo State),Port Harcourt (Rivers State), Asaba (Delta State),Abuja (FCT), Kaduna, Uyo (Akwa Ibom State), Calabar (Cross River State), Aba (Abia State), Owerri (Imo State), Enugu, Ebonyi, Osun, Ondo, Ibadan (Oyo State) and Lagos.

The tour kicks off tomorrow, March 6, with fans eagerly awaiting updates on specific venues, dates per state, and any meet-and-greet or live streaming events Peller may host. Some social media users have humorously noted the limited northern representation (only Abuja and Kaduna), joking that “the boy no wan pay 1 billion for ransom” in riskier areas.

This move comes after Peller’s earlier announcements earlier this year about planning a massive multi-state journey to connect with fans nationwide, positioning him as one of the first major African streamers to undertake such an extensive domestic tour.

Peller’s followers have flooded timelines with excitement, with many asking, “If he comes to your state, will you be there?” Stay tuned for live updates, as Peller is expected to share real-time content from the road.

The tour promises fun interactions, content creation opportunities, and a chance for fans to meet the creator in person. More details are anticipated from Peller’s official accounts soon

Arenyeka Emergence As Delta APC Chairman Well Deserved –Safugha

Former Delta State Commissioner and past publicity secretary of PDP, Barrister Newworld Safugha, has felicitated New brand Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka on his emergence to lead the party in the state.

In a congratulatory message, he described the victory of Chief Arenyeka as well deserved, adding that with his wealth of experience, he will surely lead the party to victory comes 2027.

He lauded the state Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, our immediate past governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa and other party leaders for the peaceful congress, calling on all to support the new leadership for total victory.

Safugha said the emergence was an affirmation of his political sagacity, good leadership qualities, integrity, loyalty, humbleness and commitment to the noble visions of the party and state.

The APC Chieftain maintained that he is optimistic of Arenyeka sustaining and improving on unity, peace and making the party great during 2027 general elections and beyond.

While assuring Chief Arenyeka and other party leaders of his total loyalty and support, he noted that together the party will move the state and party to the Promised Land.

Mulade Tells Gov Oborevwori: Industrialize Delta To Tackle Rising Unemployment

A peace and environmental rights advocate, Chief (Dr) Mulade Sheriff, has called on the Delta State Government to urgently embrace large-scale industrialization as a strategy to curb rising unemployment and worsening socio-economic conditions in the state.

Mulade made the call in a statement released to journalists in Warri on Wednesday, where he expressed concern over what he described as an alarming rate of unemployment across the state, particularly among the youths. Which pose a strong security threats to the state in no distance time.

While commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he termed “remarkable and visible achievements” in infrastructure development across urban cities in Delta State, Mulade stressed that physical infrastructure alone would not sufficiently address the growing challenges of poverty, hunger and joblessness.

According to him, the state must deliberately shift attention to policies that stimulate industrial growth and expand employment opportunities for its teeming population.

“The governor has recorded landmark achievements in road construction and other critical infrastructure, and these efforts are commendable. However, the rising level of unemployment is an indication to security threats, therfore demands urgent attention.

Without industrialization, the problem of poverty and hunger will continue to worsen,” he said.

Mulade, who is also the Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, urged the state government to revive moribund industries and create an enabling environment that would attract local and foreign investors.

He added that Delta State’s strategic location, abundant natural resources and human capital gave it a competitive advantage to emerge as an industrial hub if the right policies and political will were put in place.

“The government should introduce deliberate and people-centred industrial policies, support small and medium-scale enterprises, and encourage private sector participation. Sustainable job creation can only be achieved through a robust industrial base,” Mulade noted.

The renowned environmental rights advocate, maintained that aggressive industrialization would not only reduce unemployment but also boost internally generated revenue and enhance long-term economic stability in the state.

Hon. Oyali Azubuike Commissions Landmark Projects, Empowers Constituents in Oko Ogbele

The Councillor representing Ward 1, Oko Ogbele (DSIEC Ward 2) and Deputy Leader of the Oshimili South Legislative Arm, Hon. Oyali Azubuike has officially commissioned several constituency projects in his constituency.

Speaking with our reporter during the event at Oko Ogbele, the Councillor said the empowerment was in alignment with the MORE Agenda of the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sherif Oborevwori.

While speaking, he said the support for his constituents was not the first, as he had earlier sponsored the JAMB registration of over 50 student, covered school fees for several university students, facilitated the construction of seven (7) two-bedroom bungalows for seven underprivileged widows within the community.

On his part, the Council Chairman, Hon. Ezenyili Kelvin applauded Hon. Oyali Azubuike for his commendable achievements and unwavering commitment to grassroots development.

Ezenyili also urged residents to maintain their support for the APC, emphasizing that continued loyalty would ensure greater democratic benefits from the Presidency down to the State and Local Government levels as the 2027 general elections draw nearer.

Highlight of the empowerment initiative was the presentation of 12 industrial sewing machines to youths to encourage vocational skills and economic independence, distribution of 10kg bags of rice to households to ease economic burdens, provision of agro-chemicals to local farmers to enhance agricultural productivity, supply of school bags and exercise books to students as to support their academic pursuits and free medical outreach providing medical consultations and free medications for over 100 residents.

Some of the beneficiaries while appreciating the Councillor, said Oko Ogbele has continued to experience effective representation, accountable leadership, and governance that prioritizes their needs.

The commissioning ceremony attracted a large crowd of men, women, and youths who gathered to celebrate and appreciate the impactful and people-oriented leadership of their representative.

Chief of Staff,  Commissioner Others Step Down in This APC Led State

Several top government officials have resigned from their positions in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-controlled state, sparking political interest ahead of forthcoming party activities and electoral processes.
Among those who stepped down are a serving commissioner and the Chief of Staff to the governor, alongside other senior political appointees.
Edo State Water Resources Commissioner, Washington Osifo resigns from Governor Monday Okpebholo’s cabinet, Deputy Chief of Staff, Plus Alile also resigns to pursue elective positions.
Although official reasons for their resignations were not immediately disclosed, sources within the government indicated that the move may be connected to their political ambitions.

Step Down Immediately or Face Disqualification Okpebholo Warns Aspirants

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has directed political appointees and public office holders seeking elective positions to resign immediately or face disqualification from contesting.
Okpebholo gave the warning during a meeting with party stakeholders and aspirants, stressing that anyone currently holding a government position must step down in line with existing laws and party guidelines before pursuing political ambitions.
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists today in Benin City by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele.
According to the statement, the directive was issued in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.
“The directive is aimed at ensuring that all aspiring candidates do not run the risk of disqualification by the relevant electoral authorities,” Ikhilor stated.
He added that the requirement was designed to promote fairness, transparency and a level playing field for all aspirants, while safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.
The government further reminded public office holders that “the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements,” urging all affected officers to take immediate and necessary steps to comply within the stipulated timeline.
The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo reiterated its commitment to upholding constitutionalism, respecting the rule of law and ensuring strict observance of due process in governance and political participation.
The statement also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to give the notice the widest possible circulation.

Southern Delta University Maiden Convocation: Oborevwori Approves Key Projects

…Rewards Four First Class Students As  Institution Graduates 1,231 Students

Delta State Governor and Visitor to Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday approved critical infrastructural projects as the institution graduated 1,231, including four First Class students at its maiden convocation ceremony, marking a historic milestone in its evolution.

Speaking at the convocation ceremony, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to God for the successful take-off and growth of the institution, describing the maiden convocation as “the first of many remarkable achievements” for a university founded on hard work, resilience and excellence.

Earlier in the day, the Governor commissioned several projects, including laboratories and workshops for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, male and female hostsls, the Faculty of Computing complex, and the Faculty of Medical Sciences building constructed by the Delta State Government.

Oborevwori paid tribute to his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, for the foresight in establishing the university in 2021 as Delta State University of Science and Technology, noting that he presided over the legislative process as Speaker of the State House of Assembly at the time.

“Despite criticisms driven by narrow political interests, the benefits are now clear. Thousands of students who may not have had access to university education have been admitted, trained and graduated,” he said.

He explained that the amendment of the law to rename the institution as Southern Delta University was aimed at broadening its academic scope and enabling the accreditation of more programmes, in line with the administration’s vision of inclusive and responsive education.

The Governor approved key requests presented by the Vice-Chancellor, including additional ambulances, equipment for the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, hostels for medical students, a Faculty of Law complex, completion of the Computer-Based Test Centre, perimeter fencing and other critical infrastructure.

While commending Engr Godwin Izomor for giving automatic employment to the overall best graduating student, Oborevwori announced a cash award of ₦5 million for the overall best graduating student, as well as ₦1 million each for the other three First Class graduands. He maintained that outstanding performance must always be rewarded.

A total of 1,231 students graduated at the ceremony, including four First Class honours recipients, 421 Second Class Upper Division, 796 Second Class Lower Division and 10 in other categories.

Earlier in his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, described the maiden convocation as a watershed moment in the history of the institution, tracing its evolution from a College of Agriculture to Delta State Polytechnic, and eventually to a full-fledged university in 2021.

He noted that since inception, the university has expanded from six faculties with 45 programmes to 11 faculties with 89 programmes, all approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission.

Oboreh highlighted major infrastructural developments, including the construction of faculty complexes, laboratories, hostels, internal road networks, staff quarters, a perimeter fence and procurement of over 900 computers.

He also acknowledged the donation of ten fully furnished workshops by Engineer Godwin Izomo and the completion of previously abandoned projects, including a 1,200-seater auditorium.

The Vice-Chancellor appealed for further government support, particularly in the areas of medical accreditation requirements, power supply through an independent power plant, construction of additional hostels, establishment of a Teaching Hospital in Ozoro, perimeter fencing and completion of the Computer-Based Examination Centre.

Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Godson Echegile, expressed appreciation to the Ozoro and Orerokpe communities for their support and commended the Convocation Lecturer, General Alexander Ogomudia (rtd), for delivering a thought-provoking lecture titled, “Beyond Oil: The University and the Future of the Niger Delta.”

In his valedictory speech, the overall best graduating student, Frank Akaine, expressed gratitude to God, the State Government, the University management, lecturers and parents for their support throughout their academic journey.

He described the pioneer class as trailblazers who endured the uncertainties of a newly established institution with courage and determination.

“We came in as the first set, unsure of what the future held, but today we leave as proud alumni of a fast-rising university. This achievement is a testament to resilience, sacrifice and the power of vision,” Akaine said

He encouraged his fellow graduates to uphold the values of integrity, excellence and hard work instilled in them, pledging that the pioneer alumni would be worthy ambassadors of Southern Delta University.

The ceremony drew an array of dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, academics and community stakeholders, marking a defining chapter in the history of Southern Delta University, Ozoro.

Oborevwori Inaugurates Key Infrastructure At Southern Delta University

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday inaugurated series of landmark projects at Southern Delta University, Ozoro, as part of events marking the institution’s maiden convocation ceremony.

Among the projects commissioned were a block of science laboratories, the Faculty of Computing Complex, the Pa James Odhokpa Izomor Engineering Workshops comprising 10 fully equipped workshops donated by Engineer Godwin Izomor, male and female hostels, and the Faculty of Medical Sciences building constructed by the Delta State Government.

Inaugurating the projects, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to God for the milestone and lauded the university for its steady growth within a short period.

“I am very pleased to be here today. First and foremost, I thank Almighty God for making this occasion possible, and I commend Southern Delta University for this remarkable milestone,” he said.

The Governor disclosed that he began the day’s activities before 9 a.m. with the commissioning of key facilities, including laboratories and workshops for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Computing Complex.

He described as particularly inspiring the engineering workshops built through private initiative in memory of Pa James Izomor, noting that the gesture reflected a worthy investment in education and human capital development.

“While many people invest their wealth in luxury and showmanship, this family chose to invest in education. This is deeply commendable, and I pray that God will continue to bless them,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, the Governing Council and management for their prudent and transparent management of the University’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which he said had translated into tangible infrastructural development.

“I am particularly impressed with the prudent use of Internally Generated Revenue by the University management. I encourage Vice-Chancellors of other universities to emulate what is being done here,” he added, while reaffirming that the institution is permitted to control and deploy its IGR for developmental purposes.

Reflecting on the Faculty of Medical Sciences project, the Governor recalled inspecting the building last year and promising that the new faculty would be provided with a befitting structure and conducive learning environment.

“Today, I am glad to say that this promise has been fulfilled. The quality of work delivered here speaks volumes. This is indeed a very significant project and clearly reflects the steady expansion and growth of the university. This is a promise made and a promise kept,” he said.

He described the Medical Faculty project as critical to the advancement of medical education and scientific research in the state.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, disclosed that several of the projects were executed through internally generated revenue and direct labour, a strategy that ensured cost-effectiveness and quality control.

He thanked Governor Oborevwori for his consistent funding and unwavering support, which he said had enabled the young institution to achieve significant infrastructural and academic milestones within a short period.

The inauguration of the projects stood out as a major highlight of the historic maiden convocation ceremony, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to strengthening tertiary education and providing modern facilities to support learning and innovation in Delta State.

Nwaoboshi’s Funeral:  Don’t Allow Division Define Us, Oborevwori Tells Politicians 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday urged political leaders to remain united and rise above bitterness and rivalry, maintaining that Nigeria’s advancement depends on cooperation, mutual respect, and collective responsibility.

Speaking at the Funeral Mass of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa, Governor Oborevwori, said the life and passing of Senator Nwaoboshi should remind leaders at all levels that public office is a sacred trust, entrusted by God and the people for the common good of the nation.

Eminent Nigerians from across political, ethnic and religious divides gathered at Ibusa to honour the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.

He said: “Power is transient. Positions are temporary. But the legacy of service endures. Let us learn from this solemn moment. Let us govern with humility. Let us engage one another with respect. Let us remember that history will judge us not by titles held, but by lives touched”.

He called for peace and purposeful collaboration, noting that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity.

“When we are united, there is strength. When we cooperate, there is progress. But when we allow division to define us, we weaken the moral foundation upon which we stand. Nigeria must always come first,” he emphasized.

Governor Oborevwori reassured Deltans that his administration remains committed to inclusive development, responsible governance, and policies that uplift the people.

“To the children and family of our departed brother, let his name remain your badge of honour. Let his legacy inspire excellence, integrity, and patriotism. His service to Delta State and Nigeria will not be forgotten,” he added.

Oborevwori said life and death remain in the hands of Almighty God, adding that true greatness is measured not by the length of years, but by the depth of impact. “What matters most is not how long we live, but how well we serve humanity and our nation,” he said.

Continuing, he said: “We are gathered in this sacred sanctuary not only to mourn a distinguished son of Delta State, but to reflect deeply on the kind of nation we are building.

“The life of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi challenges us to place service above self, unity above division, and country above personal ambition.”

Citing John 11:25 — “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he live”, the Governor emphasized the Christian hope of eternal life, noting that Nigerians must draw strength from faith even in moments of national reflection.

“We do not grieve as those without hope. We commend our brother to the Almighty, trusting in His promise of resurrection and everlasting peace. But as we pray for him, we must also renew our commitment to the ideals he stood for, courage, representation, and dedication to his people”, he said.

Describing Senator Nwaoboshi as a bridge-builder and patriot, Oborevwori said his contributions transcended political affiliations and strengthened democratic governance in Nigeria.

“He was not just a political figure; he was a servant of the people and a firm believer in Nigeria’s unity and progress. Indeed, the memory of the righteous is a blessing,” the Governor stated.

In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, preached on hope, accountability, and divine justice. Drawing from the experience of the Israelites in exile, he reminded the faithful that God remains present even in seasons of uncertainty.

Quoting the Book of Wisdom, he affirmed: “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”

“Time is not in our hands; it is in God’s hands. Let us live and serve in such a way that we may hear, ‘Welcome, good and faithful servant,” he said.

The Funeral Mass drew a distinguished gathering of national figures, underscoring the enduring influence of the late Senator. Among those present were the Governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; former Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; and numerous federal and state lawmakers.

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