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Delta 2026 Budget Will Determine Ijaw Votes — Mulade

By
Hill Nigeria
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…As Delta Ijaws Prepare To Endorse Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for 2027

Ahead of the 2027 governorship election and the proposed endorsement of governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the sole candidate by Delta Ijaws, a prominent Ijaw leader, peace and development advocate, Comrade (Chief) Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has declared that Ijaw votes would be determined by projects allocated and adequately funded in the 2026 budget.

The renowned human and environmental rights activist made the declaration at a press briefing after an expanded stakeholders meeting in Warri on behalf of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the state.

According to the Ibe Sorimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, the adequate inclusion and funding of projects in the riverine areas will serve as critical consideration for political support, and riverine communities predominantly occupied by the Ijaws and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities.

While he commended the infrastructural development stride by governor Oborevwori in the upland areas, Mulade however lamented the absence of such infrastructural revolution in the riverine areas of the state despite the population density and huge revenue contributions to the state as host to multinational oil and gas companies.

He said, “I want to sincerely  appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the infrastructural development, which I described as infrastructural revolution in the state, particularly in the upland,  and your proposed commissioning of the reconstructed Odimodi-Ogulagha road earlier constructed by SPDC in the 1980’s for their operational convenience and community residents.

“It is imperative to state that some Ijaw communities such as Ogulagha, Torugbene, Oporoza, Akugbene, Ojobo etc. are more densely populated than some local government headquarters in the upland, but they are deliberately deprived of development because of the so-called claim of terrain challenges.

“These communities host multinational oil and gas companies contributing immensely to the state revenue, but without any significant projects,” he lamented.

The Ibe-Sorimowei who reminded the governor of how the Ijaws adopted, supported and stood by him all through the election season, also gave the assurance of massive Ijaw votes come 2027, but one that must be backed by the governor’s commitment to development through massive projects inclusion for the area.

“We (the Ijaws) have created a conducive atmosphere to boost oil and gas production, making Delta the richest state; support security, douse restiveness and support economic stability. It is time for the governor to reciprocate through the 2026 budget with tangible legacy projects,” he asserted.

Speaking further he said, “Your Excellency, permit me to draw your attention to some expected critical projects that must be considered for the Delta Ijaw nation: the Ayakoromo bridge, Omadino-Okerenkoko-Kokodiagbene-Escravos road, Aladja-Ogbe-Ijoh Road, Ojobo-Torugbene road, among others.

“Build a first class Health Centre/General Hospital in riverine community,  particularly at Ogulagha Town, to compensate the people for their huge contributions to the state revenue.

On education, he appealed that, “It is worthy of note that every ethnic group in Delta State hosts state university except the Ijaws and the Itsekiris. I want to strongly and sincerely appeal to His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori once again, to consider the upgrading of the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, which is a moribund polytechnic, to a campus of the Delta State University, Abraka. This will position the state to explore the blue economy opportunities. Equally too, the state government should, without delay, build a campus of Dennis Osadebe University at Koko to give sense of belonging to the Itsekiris with a special focus on agriculture for Deltans.

“The above mentioned projects constitutes significant live-wire for the Delta Ijaw, and will translate into votes come 2027. We can assure His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, of 100 percent of the entire Ijaw votes come 2027.

“The consideration of revolutionary projects in the riverine areas in the 2026 budget will give a sense of belonging to the people for their huge contributions. Moreover, your commitment to development will write your name in gold, not just seeking their votes during elections.”

ADC Delta Unveils Coalition in Grand Style as Deltans Reaffirm Commitment to People-Driven Politics

By
Hill Nigeria
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Delta State Chapter, has held its long-awaited coalition unveiling at the Orchid Hotel, Asaba—an event that turned out to be one of the most vibrant political gatherings in the state in recent times.

This was dislosed in a statement signed by the Party’s state Publicity Secretary, Bishop Obiajulu Obi Obiajulu.

The venue he revealed came alive with an impressive turnout, as delegates, members and community representatives trooped in from all 25 local government areas, including the hard-to-reach riverine communities. Their presence sent a clear message: the ADC is steadily rising and gaining genuine grassroots acceptance across Delta State.

Despite attempts by some groups loyal to politician Great Ogboru to discourage attendance through social media campaigns, the unveiling recorded resounding success. Their efforts failed to deter the people, who remained resolute in their loyalty to the party. With the commitment of active, dues-paying members, the ADC Delta State Chapter delivered a smooth, well-coordinated and inspiring event—further proving that true political strength comes from the people.

Observers described the gathering as a living example of democracy at work. Students, professionals, artisans, workers and community leaders all assembled out of their own free will, contributing their time, resources and voices to a party they believe represents a new style of politics. The ADC’s principles of fairness, openness and broad participation are gradually redefining political engagement in Nigeria.

A striking highlight of the event was the introduction of a renewed vision of Real Hope—not just hope as a slogan, but hope expressed through action, participation and accountability. Speakers emphasized that Real Hope means citizens taking charge of their future, young people stepping forward with courage, and communities refusing to be silenced by the old order of intimidation or manipulation.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to inclusiveness by celebrating the pillars of its structure:
– Women, who shape decision-making and drive community initiatives.
– Youth, whose creativity and energy fuel political transformation.
– Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), who are fully integrated into planning, leadership and decision-making.

This, leaders said, is the identity of the ADC—a political home where everyone is seen, valued and respected.

In a symbolic comparison, party officials referenced the recent viral incident involving a young naval officer who boldly stood up against unfair treatment, an episode that resonated nationwide as a symbol of Nigerians rejecting oppression. The ADC, they noted, embodies that same spirit of courage. Members across Delta State are saying “enough is enough” to political imposition, intimidation and secret deals.

The Coalition Unveiling also demonstrated the power of collective ownership. Every aspect of the event—from logistics to branding and mobilisation—was funded through voluntary donations ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦1 million. This, the party stated, is proof that the ADC’s strength comes from ordinary citizens, not political godfathers.

As Nigeria confronts deep social and economic challenges, the success of the unveiling offers an important national lesson: democracy flourishes when the people themselves participate and insist that their voices be heard. The ADC believes that Real Hope lies in honesty, community involvement and solutions that come from the people.

For Delta State and the nation at large, the message from the Orchid Hotel is unmistakable—Real Hope belongs to the people, and the people are ready to shape the future.

2027: Ethiope Leaders Sets to Reclaim Representation, Slams Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu

By
Hill Nigeria
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Leaders and political stakeholders of the Ethiope Federal Constituency have issued a damning assessment of their House of Representatives member, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, accusing her of what they described as “complete failure in credible, responsive and effective representation” since her election.

Speaking during a high-powered strategic meeting held over the weekend in Eku, Ethiope East Local Government Area, the leaders lamented that the constituency had suffered stagnation, neglect, and an alarming disconnect between the lawmaker and the people she claims to represent.

The forum, which brought together political leaders, community representatives, youth groups, and opinion leaders across Ethiope East and West Local Government Areas, unanimously resolved to “reposition the constituency” in 2027.

They vowed to mobilise aggressively at the grassroots and present a more competent, visible and people-focused candidate to restore the constituency’s legislative relevance at the national level.

Speaking at the gathering, former House of Representatives member for the constituency, Hon. Halims Agoda, delivered a scathing critique of Ibori-Suenu’s performance.

Agoda said; “Section 14(1) of the 1999 Constitution makes it clear that Nigeria must be governed under democracy and social justice”, stressing that true representation demands physical presence, vocal advocacy, and legislative productivity all of which, he argued, are lacking in the current representation.

“The young lady there now is not representing us,” Agoda declared. “Somebody elected to speak on behalf of Ethiope Federal Constituency must be regularly on the floor of the House, moving motions, sponsoring bills, and defending the interests of our people. What we have now is absence, silence, and constitutional non-compliance,” he lamented.

He cited a recent incident in which an Edo lawmaker raised an issue concerning land in Mosogar, yet it took Hon. Francis Waive from Ughelli North/South and Udu Federal Constituency to defend Ethiope’s interest.

“If not for Waive, our constituency would have been abandoned. That is the shame we are facing,” he decried.

Agoda said the constituency must now prepare a more intellectually and physically capable candidate who will “stand daily, speak boldly, and defend Ethiope Federal Constituency on the floor of the House.”

Also speaking, Chief Adviser to the Governor, Senator Ighoyota Amori, described Ethiope as the political heartbeat of Delta Central and reaffirmed the constituency’s loyalty to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Amori said; “This is the governor’s constituency. In 2023 we delivered; in 2027 we will double it. What we are seeing today is a united political force, preparing for total victory. Any APC candidate presented in Ethiope Federal Constituency will win.”

He described the meeting as a show of strength, unity and readiness for 2027, insisting that no opposition will withstand the political coalition emerging from the constituency.

The State Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the leadership gathered in the room represented the true custodians of Ethiope’s political future, adding that; “we are taking our destiny in our own hands.”

He said the meeting signalled a decisive step towards rebuilding the constituency’s political structures and repositioning Ethiope for more effective and accountable representation.

Leader of the APC in Ethiope East, Chief Bernard Edewor, described the meeting as a successful step toward building a formidable coalition for the next general election.

“We have laid the groundwork. There is no old or new APC, only one united family working for the good of the people. Our objective is clear: re-elect the governor, support our presidential candidate, and win all legislative seats,” he declared.

A major highlight of the meeting was the overwhelming approval of confidence votes in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The motion, moved by DESOPADEC Chairman, Chief John Nani and seconded by Dr. Benson Edoja, adopted both leaders as sole candidates of the constituency for the 2027 general elections.

Nani praised Governor Oborevwori for his performance and leadership style, while Edoja expressed confidence that both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori would win re-election.

“We hereby adopt Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election,” Nani announced. “And we adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as sole presidential candidate for 2027,” Edoja added.

The meeting ended with a renewed sense of determination among stakeholders who insisted that Ethiope Federal Constituency must no longer be voiceless or poorly represented.

Their final resolution was emphatic: Ethiope will take back its seat in 2027 and this time, it will send a voice, not an echo, to the National Assembly.

166 Local Government Retirees Receive 34m From NULGE, Delta State

By
Hill Nigeria
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166 retirees of the Local Government Service in Delta State have received the sum of  ₦34 million from the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) welfare scheme.

The State president of the Union, High Comrade Obatarhe Ogberetitinor revealed this while speaking with journalist shortly after the inaugural cash premium payment to the retirees at the NULGE Secretariat in Asaba.

Ogberetitinor said the gesture was aimed at alleviating the financial challenges faced by many retired workers across the state, adding that it was part of its welfare support and end-of-service benefits initiative especially those awaiting full payment of their entitlements.

He expressed profound happiness that the union had finally delivered on its commitment to reward retired members who had dedicated their years of service to the local government system.

“I’m so glad that we are fulfilling the promise we made three years ago. The money may not be much compared to the current value of the naira, but you could see the joy and excitement in the hall today as our retired senior citizens received their payment alerts. It gives me great joy as words can’t even describe how I feel. It’s truly a great day for all of us,” he said.

The NULGE president further explained that the payment was drawn from a well-structured welfare plan designed to ensure sustainability for the next ten years.

“What we used to pay retirees today did not come from the capital contributed. It was from the yearly premium. The capital will be sustained while the annual premium will continue to serve our senior citizens,” he explained, assuring that the initiative would continue as long as the local government service exists in Delta State.

He reaffirmed the union’s unwavering commitment to transparency and worker welfare, urging staff to maintain their confidence in NULGE.

“We represent their interests and will never betray their trust. None of our promises will go unfulfilled because we are working for the workers. They will surely enjoy the fruits of their labour,” he stated.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, the first Chairman of the Commission, Arch. Anslem Nwokeyem, lauded the NULGE leadership for initiating and executing what he described as a “notable and laudable scheme.”

“I’m greatly impressed. This is a wonderful and commendable program. Kudos to the NULGE executive for implementing such a noble initiative that puts smiles on the faces of our retirees,” he said.

On his part, the Chairman NULGE Contributory Welfare Scheme, Comrade Ijolo Omo-Ohwo, the prudency and accountability of the management committee members yielded much desired result when they decided to embark on disciplined savings, smart investment in treasury bills, prompt involvement in interest based loans and the purchasing of landed properties to secure future financial values for the scheme.

He said 166 retirees met the requirements to receive their cash premium of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) each.

“This careful and transparent approach does not only preserved the integrity of the funds, but also ensured the scheme’s continuous growth – safe guarding the interest of all members, both in service and out of service”, he said.

The Chairman NULGE Contributory Welfare Scheme, however appealed to their employer, the various council chairmen (ALGON) and the HPM/ TLG college to work in consonance to see how the scheme can be supported either through monthly or yearly grants.

Also speaking on behalf of the President of the College of Head of Personnel Management and Treasurers of Local Government, the HPM of Oshimili South, Mrs Chidinma Omoghene lauded the welfare committee for their transparency and accountability.

Omoghene urged the executives to continue so as to earn more trust from the workers.

Highlight of the event was the formal presentation of cash gifts to the retirees and the inauguration of the welfare committee.

MOUN Set To Collect Checkup Dues In Delta

By
Hill Nigeria
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… promises members better days ahead

Motor Cycle Operators Union in Nigeria( MOUN) is set to collect checkup dues beginning from 13th November 2025.
This was made known by the body on Wednesday, today while addressing press in Warri.
Speaking on behalf of members, the Deputy National President of the body, Comrade Julius Oghenevwegba Bobi
said the body is a well registered one just as he said, it is recognized affiliate body of Nigeria Labour Congress.
According to him, all motor cycle operators in Nigeria in general and Delta State in particular are all members.
He said, the checkup dues are meant to take care of its members who have one challenge or the other. He said money generated is to take of themselves, their wife and four of their children.
According to the Deputy National President who was flanked by his executive members and others, said, the body is in collaboration with Delta State government Health Insurance Scheme to take care of the health needs of members from the checkup dues paid. His words:”We are coming up with Health Insurance Scheme that if you are sick, from that two hundred Naira, we are collaborating with Delta State government Health Insurance Scheme to take of health needs of members”.
The Deputy National President stated further that, plans are under way by the Union to import about 20,000 motorcycles from China adding, these motor cycles would be distributed to members of the Union free of charge provided the person has membership Identity card of the Union and the drivers license.
He therefore called on motor cycle operators to co-operate with the Union by paying their dues for the betterment of members. His words:” Our message is that, they should embrace the activities of this Union because, this Union is for the well-being of all Okada riders in Nigeria and Delta State in particular.”
The association used the medium to express gratitude to the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for allowing the Union to operate in the state.

The Fall of a Great Iroko: Asaba Mourns  Sudden Passing of Obi Nwanze Oduah, Odogwu of Asaba

By
Hill Nigeria
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By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Asaba was thrown into deep mourning today following the sudden and unexpected death of Obi Nwanze Oduah, the revered Odogwu of Asaba. His passing marks the fall of a great iroko—one whose presence, wisdom, and leadership shaped the cultural and communal fabric of the ancient town.

Until his final moments, the Odogwu stood as a symbol of strength, dignity, and tradition. His voice echoed with authority, his footsteps carried the weight of history, and his influence reached across Anioma land. To many, he was not just a titleholder but the embodiment of Asaba’s heritage.

Throughout his lifetime, Obi Nwanze Oduah was known for his courageous leadership, fairness in judgment, and unwavering dedication to the peace and progress of his people. He served as a bridge between generations, a custodian of culture, and a father figure to countless sons and daughters of Asaba at home and in the diaspora.

News of his passing spread like wildfire, leaving the community in shock. Men and women, young and old, gathered in clusters, sharing memories of the Odogwu whose presence commanded respect and whose absence will be deeply felt.

Indeed, Asaba has lost a titan. The palace has lost a trusted pillar. The community has lost a rare gem.

In the coming days, tributes will continue to pour in, each telling its own story of a man who lived with honour and departed with dignity. But one truth remains undeniable: Obi Nwanze Oduah’s name will echo through time. His legacy will endure. And the iroko that has fallen will not be forgotten.

May his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

Unified Delta Group Commends Delta State Government On Kwale Free Trade Zone Groundbreaking

By
Hill Nigeria
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 By Lord Davidson Onedju

The Unified Delta For Tinubu & Sheriff (UDFTS) purposefully led by its Chairman, Chief Engr Eric Egere, has issued a formal commendation to the Delta State Government, led by His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, following the successful groundbreaking ceremony for the Kwale Free Trade Zone (KFTZ).

In a statement released by Lord Davidson Onedju, the UDFTS recognized the project as a strategic initiative with the potential to significantly advance the state’s economic development objectives.

The group highlighted the KFTZ’s anticipated role in stimulating industrial growth, attracting domestic and international investment, and generating substantial employment opportunities for the citizens of Delta State.

The statement further acknowledged the strategic placement of the project in Ndokwa land, noting it as a positive step toward ensuring equitable development across the state’s regions, consistent with the administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda.

The UDFTS also observed an alignment between the state-level project and the broader national economic goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification and infrastructure development.

“The establishment of the Kwale Free Trade Zone marks a pivotal investment in the future economic landscape of Delta State,” the statement read.

“We are confident that this initiative will enhance the state’s industrial capacity, create new revenue streams, and solidify its status as a prime destination for business and investment.”

The group concluded by reaffirming its support for government policies and projects that foster sustainable economic growth and development for all residents of Delta State.

According to him, the Unified Delta for Tinubu & Sheriff is a political movement dedicated to supporting governance and development initiatives within Delta State.

Schoolboy Oscar Ezeani Dead: Family Alleges Negligence and Cover-Up at British Spring College

By
Hill Nigeria
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AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE — The family of 13-year-old Oscar Ezeani, a student at British Spring College (BSC), Awka, is seeking national attention following his tragic death in October 2025. According to the boy’s sister, Ella Ezeani, the crisis began when the school’s clinic allegedly ignored his mother’s explicit instructions regarding medication for a cough and suspected malaria, administering an unauthorized drug (Amatem) instead of the family-approved Coartem. The family claims this alleged disregard for parental direction set off a fatal chain of events that highlights a gross failure in the school’s duty of care.

​The situation escalated dramatically when Oscar was transferred to JoyVille Hospital, where his father allegedly found him “tied up hands, legs, and even his head bound,” having reportedly been left unattended for over an hour. The family asserts that Oscar’s death was a result of “negligence, carelessness, and a failure of duty.” The claims deepened with the allegation that the school owner later failed to apologize and that CCTV footage near the clinic and hostel was allegedly deleted and disconnected, suggesting an attempted cover-up of the events leading to the tragedy.

​The Ezeani family is now demanding a comprehensive, impartial investigation, an independent medical review, and a public apology from the involved institutions. Drawing a painful parallel with other cases of alleged negligence in Nigerian boarding schools, they are urging the public to amplify Oscar’s story to enforce accountability. His young life, full of potential, must not be silenced by institutional failure. Justice for Oscar Ezeani.

Ezinne Title a Call to Greater Service — Okonji

By
Hill Nigeria
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The  mother of the Leader of the Legislative arm in Oshimili South Local Government Council Chief Mrs. Anthonia Okonji, has described her recent Odu title as a call to higher responsibility.

Chief Okonji made this known while speaking with our reporter during her conferment with the revered Odu title as Ezinne and birthday celebration in Asaba.

“To be bestowed an Ezinne means a lot to me. It is not just a title but, a responsibility to continue being a mother figure, a role model, and a woman of virtue,” she explained.

Speaking, she said celebration came as both a surprise and an honor and it will spur her to continue in good deeds not only to her children but to the society at large.

She noted that the title would inspire her to deepen her service to God and humanity, especially in impacting on the lives of persons in her community.

Expressing joy over the lives her children, Chief Mrs Okonji said she was proud to watch her children grow to become the persons they were, adding that it was an evidence of her labour of love towards their upbringing.

On his part, the celebrant’s son and Leader of Oshimili South Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Michael Okonji thanked God for the life of his mother who nurtured him in the right path of life.

Okonji said the prestigious title bestowed on his mother was a well deserved one.

Others who spoke described the celebrant as a shining example of womanhood whose life continues to inspire both the old and young in Asaba and beyond.

Teenage Male Teacher Sentence To Life Imprisonment for Raping Nine-Year-Old Boy

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Abuja, has sentenced a 19-year-old teacher, Abdullahi Abbass, to life imprisonment for raping his nine-year-old pupil.

The conviction was delivered by Justice M. Osho-Adebiyi of the FCT High Court.

According to a statement issued by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP’s National Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, it stated that Abbass, who worked in a private school in the Kwali Area Council of the FCT, lured the young boy after school hours on March 19, 2025, and raped him through the anus.

The incident came to light after the victim confided in his mother, who immediately reported the matter to the authorities, leading to Abbass’s arrest and prosecution.

The teacher was arraigned on two counts bordering on rape and sexual abuse. Following a full trial, he was found guilty on October 29, 2025, under Section 2 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015, which prescribes life imprisonment for the offence.

Reacting to the judgment, NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, commended the judiciary and law enforcement agencies for their swift handling of the case, adding that it was a significant victory in the fight against sexual violence.

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