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Former President Muhammadu Buhari Passes On At 82

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Hill Nigeria
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Nigeria is mourning the loss of its former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday afternoon at the age of 82. The news was confirmed by his long-time spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Shehu’s announcement stated, “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.” The acronym GCFR stands for Grand Commander of the Federal Republic, Nigeria’s highest national honor. The Arabic phrase “Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin” translates to “May Allah accept him into the highest paradise (of Heaven), Amen,” a common Islamic prayer for the deceased.

Buhari, who had been in London for medical treatment, served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Prior to that, he was also the country’s military Head of State from 1983 to 1985. His passing marks the end of an era for a figure who played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape for decades. The exact nature of his illness has not been officially disclosed.

Angele Frowns At ‘Total Package Syndrome’ By House Agents

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Hill Nigeria
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…Lauds Community Newspaper Publishers For Supporting Delta’s MORE Agenda

The Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele has commended the grassroot publishers for promoting the MORE agenda of the state governor.

Angele gave the commendation while playing host to members of  Delta State Community publishers ably led by the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Community Newspaper, Prince Joseph Oromonopkai, at his office in Asaba.

He said as a group which comprises of grass root publishers, they have helped in effectively disseminating the activities of the state governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to the people at the grass root.

He urged them to continue in thier good work of information dissemination as it has helped in sensitizing the publics of some of the unknown happenings in the state.

The Commissioner described the ministry as a very technical one that handles a lot of things, adding that all the bill of Quantity (BOQ) of all the MDA emantes from the ministry,

He said the ministry was responsible for the certification of any building, reasons why 80 percents of professionals, architect, quantity surveyors and builders are in the ministry.

Angele said the ministry is meant to ensure that all the building in the state were up to standard.

He said the ministry tends to screening all the developers carefully, because if you hand it over to the wrong people, they turn out to be land-grabbers.

He said there was 150,000 units site in Okwe, another one at the back of the Asaba airport; that one he said was planned for 300,000 units while that of   Agbor 400,000 units.

The Commissioner revealed that the project will be over 50 percent completed by the early part of next year.

While highlighting the achievement of the state government, he said 15 duplexes have been approved by the governor for Judges’ Quarters, five in each senatorial district comprising of Delta North and environs, Ughelli Central and environs, and Usubi, Warri and environs.

According to the Commissioner, another project approved by governor is  the 12 duplexes for Permanent Secretaries in the PS Quarters.

“That one is right here; you don’t even need to leave Asaba. They’re mobilising to site now, and we want them to do the foundation quickly so that you can all attend the groundbreaking”, he said.

Speaking on the total package syndrome, he said it was an error for civil servant to pay exhorbitant house rent, when they earn less.

The Commissioner said the ministry was set to check mate the activities of agents who exhort Deltans, especially civil servant in a bid to help them secure accommodation.

He said it would be out of place for them to pay rents in millions when many of them have been indebted to coperatives just to pay thier children’s school fees, and fend for the their families.

Nani Urges Deltans To Support Tinubu/Oborevwori Second Term Bid

By
Hill Nigeria
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….Presents Motorcycles To APC Ward Chairmen In Idjerhe Kingdom.

By Onoriode Etatsemi.

Chief Hon. John Obukohwo Nani, the Chairman of the oil bearing Communities in Delta State, (DESOPADEC) a.k.a the Aghwemutuvwewi of Idjerhe Kingdom has urged Deltans to Support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Second Term Bid.

Chief Nani while presenting 4 motorcycles to 4 wards APC Chairmen in Idjerhe Kingdom in his country home at Atiwor- Jesse town,on the Occasion of his 65th birthday, said the gesture was on the mandate of the Delta State APC chairman who has advocated for the unity of the party in the state.

He emphasized that since the unity of the party is paramount, all members should thread on the part of peace and unity at all times.

The DESOPADEC Boss appealed to those present at the party to continue to pray for him so that he would be well placed to attract more development to his people.

He advised the people to stay on to Almighty God, worship Him in truth and in Spirit, explaining the it is in Him God, you can find succour, protection and provision .

Chief Paulinus Akpeki, the Ugo of Okpe Kingdom who presented Chief Nani’s motorcycles to the beneficiaries, applaudded the DESOPADEC Boss on his good will to the party leaders in Jesse.

” I have to commend Chief Nani for the Donations of four motorcycles. I pray to God Almighty that God should replenish your pocket for all you are doing for Delta State. “

” You are not the richest in Delta State, yet you have touched several lifes in the state and beyond. Please keep doing good. The good Lord will always be there for you at all times”. He added.

Chief Akpeki who became a member of House of representative at the age of 29, prayed that Chief Nani would climb the ladder of politics to the highest level in life.

He urged the beneficiaries of Nani’s good will to use the motorcycles to work for the victory of President Tinubu, Oborevwori etc, during the forthcoming elections in the country

He appealed to Deltans to support all those going into politics under the umbrella of APC during the next election to victory.

Gloria Oborevwori one of those who were in attendance during the event, describe Chief Nani as an exemplary leader whose leadership qualities is outstanding.

Meanwhile, a group who styled themselves as members of the Association of Urhobo Sons and Daughters in service have conferred on Chief Nani, the Patron of the Association.

The group leader Mrs Alimatu Voke Okolakpa said the gesture was arrived out after they concluded that under the leadership of Chief Nani as the DESOPADEC Chairman, the interventionist agency has attracted more development to the oil bearing Communities in the Delta State more than ever before now.

We Are Closer, Historically Connected To The South East’ – Ejiofor 

By
Hill Nigeria
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The highly respected Onishe of Ubulu-Uku kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Onyekachukwu Ejiofor, PhD, has shared strong words of encouragement to the Anioma people as the conversation about the creation of Anioma State continues.

He called on Anioma sons and daughters not to be discouraged by negative voices or selfish opinions from a few.

In his words, “My fellow Anioma people,

“For too long, the dream of Anioma State has resonated within our hearts. It is not a fleeting fancy, but a deeply rooted aspiration born from our shared history, culture, and destiny”.

“We must not allow the whispers of pessimism or the self-serving opinions of a few to cloud our vision. Anioma is Anioma, regardless of artificially imposed geographical zones, and those zones cannot and will not impede the realization of our collective will.”

He reminded us that our connection to the South East is not just by location but by history, culture, and shared values.

He questioned the idea that only maps define a people, stressing that true connection is about who we are and how we relate with one another not lines on a map.

He ended with a passionate call for unity, peace, and determination in pursuing this long-desired dream.

Read his full inspiring message below and share your thoughts.

“Some question our path, citing geographical constraints. I ask you: what is the true geography of a people? Is it merely lines on a map, or is it the intricate network of shared values, common heritage, and mutual aspiration? When our brothers and sisters from across the South-South struggle for twelve hours to reach a common point within that same zone, while we can traverse the distance between Anioma and our South-Eastern kin in a fraction of that time, the answer becomes clear. Our connections are not defined by arbitrary lines but by the very fabric of our being.

“Let us remember that the creation of other states in our nation’s history was not always predicated on rigid criteria. They were acts of faith, acts of vision, acts of belief in the potential of a people. And those states have flourished. We, too, possess that potential, that inherent capacity for growth and self-determination. We were once a region, the Midwest, forged without consultation, yet it became a testament to our resilience”,  he said.

“Therefore, I implore you, my brothers and sisters: cast aside unnecessary resistance. Embrace the opportunity before us. Come together, speak with one voice, and let that voice resonate with the unwavering commitment to the Anioma we envision. Let us seize this moment and build a future worthy of our ancestors and a legacy for generations to come.

Let peace and unity guide our path, let’s come together with one voice and shape the future of Anioma  he concluded.

Hoteliers Under Legal Obligation To Collect Guest Basic Information – Bureau DG

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Says operators must provide security surveillance, assist law enforcement agents to combat crime

Delta State Government has again reminded all hotel owners, managers, and front desk staff of their statutory obligation to collect and maintain accurate and detailed information from guests checking into their facilities.

Director General, Delta State Bureau for Communications and Orientation, Dr (Barr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, in a statement on Saturday, said the reminder became necessary in light of recent incidents of ritual killings, sexual violence, rape, and murder in some hotels in the country, and few reported cases in the state.

He said it has become imperative for hotel management to adhere strictly to the law requiring them to obtain specific information from guests, pointing out that information obtained is crucial in aiding law enforcement agents to track down perpetrators, and bring them to justice.

Accordingly to the Bureau Chief, front desk officers in hotels must obtain vital information from guests before checking them in, which includes any of the following; valid driver’s license, international passport, national identity number, valid student identity card, permanent voters card, or any other government-issued Identity.

Other vital information hotel front desk officers must obtain from guests includes; detailed addresses of guests’ residences and workplaces, check-in and departure dates, arriving from and destination, detailed information about co-guest, especially female guests, telephone numbers, Email address and guest’s occupation or profession.

The state government reminded all licensed hoteliers, hotel unions and associations of their legal obligation to collect vital information from their guests, and to henceforth provide and ensure security surveillance to monitor guests activities within their premises and facilities as requested by law.

Dr Oghenesivbe further explained that the collection of guests information is not only a legal requirement, but also a critical tool in combating crimes, such as ritual killings, sexual violence, rape, and ritual murder in hotels, adding that in cases of alleged harbouring of criminals, the affected hotels must unconditionally assist law enforcement agents with guests contact information to facilitate investigation, apprehend and bring perpetrators to justice.

The State Orientation and Communications Bureau urges all hotel owners, managers, and staff to take this responsibility seriously and ensure that the required information is collected from every guest without exception, while emphasizing the need for vigilance and cooperation between hotel management and law enforcement agencies, so as to sustain a safe and secured environment for all citizens and visitors.

“By working together, we can reduce the incidence of crime in our hotels and ensure that Delta State remains a safe and secure place for everyone.

“His Excellency, the governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, and the state government are committed to ensure a safe and secured environment for all Deltans and visitors by investing heavily on operational vehicles and other logistic arrangements for law enforcement agents in the state.

“All hoteliers, hotel unions and associations are reminded of their legal obligation to collect vital information from their guests and provide security surveillance to monitor guests activities within their premises and facilities for a safer Delta,” the statement added.

Urhobo Nation Proud Of Oborewvori’s Achievements, Leadership Style – Oghenesivbe

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Says ethnic chauvinism inimical to development, peaceful coexistence

Director General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has said that Urhobo people of Delta Central Senatorial District, and all Deltans are proud of the numerous achievements of governor Sheriff Oborevwori, as can be seen from the overwhelming vote of implicit confidence on his administration.

He urged those alleging that the governor had neglected Urhobo Nation or his Urhobo folks to have a rethink, and reflect on the numerous completed and ongoing mega projects spread across Delta Central and other senatorial districts within the past two years of this administration.

Dr Oghenesivbe in a statement on Thursday, commended the governor over the ongoing construction of flyovers, pedestrian bridges, proposed ultra modern general hospital at Osubi, establishment of the Orerokpe campus of the Southern Delta University, construction of underground water tunnels at Effurun, Uvwie and environ, the dualization of Ughelli-Asaba highway, as well as the appointment of several sons and daughters of Urhobo nation into key positions in his cabinet and across board.

The State Bureau for Communications Director General pointed out that the governor recently marked two years in office, and that from all indications his detribalized leadership approach to governance had to a large extent enhanced peaceful coexistence with little or no agitation over marginalization, tribal or ethnic chauvinism.

He assured that governor Oborevwori would continue to make Deltans proud through good governance, fiscal discipline, political bridge building, and that the next six years of this administration will leave no bad taste in the mouth of the people.

The Bureau Chief appealed to the few Urhobo folks who are not comfortable with the governor’s unbiased leadership style devoid of Public display of ethnic or tribal bigotry to always be constructive in their criticism, noting that it is obviously not easy to govern a multi-ethnic state like Delta.

Dr Oghenesivbe said as a governor to all Deltans, Oborevwori must not be seen to exhibit excessive or open display of tribal or ethnic chauvinism in governance, noting that the pan-Delta leadership style of the governor had united and kept the people together, wherein each and every ethnic group or nationality have a sense of belonging as a critical and important stakeholder in the affairs of Delta State.

“Governor Oborevwori is governing the state with the fear of God as a leader and governor for all Deltans.

“Our amiable governor has not, and may never exhibit open and excessive tribal bigotry. And by the way, tribal bigotry is anti good governance and spread of development.The very essence of rotation of power is the collective pride of state ownership by all ethnic nationalities.

“Rotation of power has greatly sustained peaceful coexistence enabling the weak, the strong, majority and the minority to have equal say, lead and decide the state affairs. Open and excessive tribal display by any leader would fracture our unity and peaceful
coexistence.

“What the governor is expected to do is what he’s been doing in the past two years, which is to spread development, appointments and dividends of democracy to all Deltans, boost Delta economy, embark on mega projects and to upscale substantial progress in all sectors of the state economy.

“The governor did not, and will never neglect Urhobo nation or his Urhobo folks in the scheme of things. Governor Oborevwori is endowed with great wisdom and uncommon foresight. God will continue to direct and guide him to govern the state without blemish,” Oghenesivbe said.

Isoko Patriots Passes Vote of Confidence On Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Isoko Patriots, comprising President Generals, stakeholders, and coordinators of oil pipeline surveillance in Delta State, have passed a resounding vote of confidence in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), condemning in strong terms recent calls for the cancellation of its contract.

At a meeting held at Opute Hall, Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government Area, the coalition expressed deep concern over what it described as a coordinated smear campaign by criminal elements masquerading as ethnic agitators, aimed at discrediting Tantita’s achievements in securing oil pipelines across the Niger Delta region.

Reading the official position of the group, Chief Adonis Ubuwere, Chairman of the Isoko PGs Forum and President General of Irri Kingdom, warned that any attempt to truncate Tantita’s operations would amount to a direct threat to national economic stability and regional security.

He stated that since Tantita, chaired by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo with Chief Kestin Pondi as Managing Director, took over pipeline surveillance operations in 2022, illegal bunkering and oil theft in the Isoko region have virtually disappeared, with significant employment created for local youths.

“The Isoko Patriots, a coalition of young professionals committed to peace and prosperity, alert the Nigerian public and security agencies to a calculated campaign, allegedly sponsored by crude oil theft syndicates, to undermine Tantita’s mandate,” the statement declared.

The group revealed that credible intelligence pointed to a broader conspiracy aimed at sabotaging Nigeria’s oil surveillance framework, in order to revive the illegal bunkering economy dismantled by Tantita’s operations.

They criticized the silence of ethnic agitators during past contracts awarded to non-indigenous firms, such as Eraskorp and Ocean Marine, at a time when crude oil theft reduced Nigeria’s daily production to just 700,000 barrels per day.

“These agitators said nothing while our environment was devastated, our communities militarized, and the nation bled economically,” the statement read.

Describing Tantita’s role as a necessary intervention in a time of national crisis, the group emphasized that the contract aligns with the Petroleum Industry Act and reflects a strategic shift toward local content, inclusion, and accountability. They praised the company’s subcontracts to Isoko-owned firms operating within OML 26 and OML 60, and its broad community engagement.

They condemned recent protests against the contract, stating that those behind them are either non-residents or completely detached from the realities on ground.

“Tantita is one of the largest employers of labour in Isoko land. It is disingenuous to call for the cancellation of its contract based on ethnicity. Isoko sons are executing contracts in Ijaw areas—should they now be excluded?” the statement questioned.

The coalition insisted that the real motivation behind the agitations is “corruption fighting back,” warning the Federal Government and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) not to fall for the deception.

“The gains since Tantita’s engagement are undeniable. Even oil thieves know this. This is not patriotism; it is a desperate pushback by criminal cartels,” they said.

They further called for the expansion of Tantita’s operational mandate and urged the Federal Government to establish special courts to try oil thieves and their sponsors.

“A winning team deserves applause, not replacement,” they said.

The vote of confidence motion was moved by the President General of Otor-Owhe community, Engr. Atunu Alfred, seconded by Comrade Morisster Idibra, and unanimously adopted by all coordinators, workers, and the entire Isoko nation.

DELTA DEVT.: Mulade Charges Oborevwori On Industrialization, People Impactful Projects

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State-born and renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has called on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to prioritize people-oriented projects that will industrialize the state and create the much-needed employment opportunities for the youths.

Comrade Mulade, a prominent environmental rights activist and United Nations Peace Ambassador, made the remarks during a recent press conference which was held in Asaba, the State capital.

Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, emphasized on the urgent need for the State government to focus on initiatives that will not only enhance economic growth, but also improve the quality of life for residents in the State.

Speaking further, Mulade urged the Delta State government led by Governor Oborevwori to emulate his counterparts like governors Pastor Eno and Mbah of Akwa-Ibom and Enugu states respectively, with the latter who recently launched Enugu Airlines whose state income is somewhere 50 per cent of Delta State resources.

According to him, “Delta State has more resources to float Delta Airways, which will create employment opportunities for our youths and industrialise the state.”

The development advocate further argued that while “infrastructural projects are good, however, creating employment opportunities for the youths is far better and more important for peaceful, revitalised, sustainable economy that will add value to our economy.”

Mulade therefore appeal to the governor to prioritise industrialisation due to its immense benefits of job creation, while he also admitted the State’s unhealthy policies that are anti-business.

“I want to strongly appeal to His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State, to consider and prioritise industrialization as key to save our deteriorated economy.

“It is equally imperative to state that Delta State business economy is not healthy because of some government policies that are not economically friendly,” he stated.

Delta Polytechnic Rector Suspended Over Alleged Financial Misconduct, Abuse of Office

By
Hill Nigeria
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By An Investigative Journalist

The Governing Council of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku has suspended the Rector of the institution, Buldr. (Prof.) Emmanuel Achuenu, following allegations bordering on financial recklessness, corruption, abuse of office, and gross misconduct.

In a letter seen by this publication, the Council communicated the decision to Prof. Achuenu, with copies forwarded to the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, and the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, the Governing Council expressed deep concern over the rector’s failure to respond adequately to a series of grave allegations despite being given ample opportunity to do so.

According to the Council, Prof. Achuenu was invited to appear before the Council to respond to detailed allegations, including an unauthorized expenditure of One Hundred and Eleven Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira (N111,860,000), which was N42 million in excess of the amount approved for an accreditation exercise. Rather than comply, the rector allegedly ignored the Council’s directive, an action seen as a deliberate attempt to frustrate ongoing institutional reforms.

Consequently, during its statutory meeting, the Governing Council unanimously resolved to suspend Prof. Achuenu for an initial period of six months with effect from Friday, July 4, 2025. The Deputy Rector has been directed to assume the role in an acting capacity.

However, documents obtained by this investigative reporter reveal a slew of serious allegations against the embattled rector. These include:

• Unlawful diversion of Polytechnic funds into the personal account of the Registrar for the unauthorized purchase of vehicles for principal officers.

• Unauthorized sale of Polytechnic assets without Council approval, contravening Delta State Government auction laws.

• Illegal withdrawals from the Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) account.

• Failure to remove the names of 19 deceased or absconded staff from the state payroll, despite Council directives.

• Employment of 19 permanent staff without Council approval, as well as the unauthorized recruitment of over 214 ad-hoc staff.

• Obstruction of the Council’s statutory meetings and disrespectful conduct, including lateness, talking down on Council members, and staging walkouts.

• Refusal to implement Council decisions, including the suspension of the institution’s Registrar and Bursar.

• Unexplained expenditure of N3.92 million purportedly as balance payment for generators that had already been fully paid for in 2023.

• Release of N6 million to a contractor, Chulico Best Ventures, for renovation of the Polytechnic Event Centre, despite no work having commenced.

• Irregular approval of N15 million for solar light repairs, contrary to an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the solar service provider.

In response to mounting concerns over alleged certificate racketeering and systemic corruption, the Governing Council, under the leadership of Hon. (Pastor) Paul Adingwupu, initiated sweeping reforms aimed at sanitizing the institution in alignment with Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda, which prioritizes transparency, institutional accountability, and educational excellence across Delta State.

As part of this clean-up initiative, the Council earlier set up an investigative panel to ensure due process and fair hearing for all accused officials. Following investigations, the institution’s Registrar, Dr. Jude Okocha, was also suspended.

A senior staff member of the Polytechnic, who spoke to this publication on condition of anonymity, expressed support for the Council’s action. “The era of impunity must end if we are serious about building a credible academic system. We support every genuine effort to restore order, accountability, integrity and excellence to our institution.”

Efforts to obtain a response from Prof. Achuenu were unsuccessful, as multiple calls to his mobile line went unanswered. However, what reportedly followed his suspension was disturbing; as the rector allegedly returned to the institution accompanied by suspected thugs, locked up the Council Secretariat, and issued a redeployment letter for Council staff. He was reported to have boasted that the Governing Council had been dissolved by higher authorities, a claim many described as audacious and unbecoming of an academic leader.

This development has raised critical questions as to: Who are the “powers from above” emboldening Prof. Achuenu to act with such impunity? Who is shielding him from the consequences of his alleged misconduct? These are questions that demand urgent answers from stakeholders committed to good governance, accountability, and the development of our educational sector.

As investigations continue, both the Polytechnic community and the public await the next steps in what is shaping up to be a landmark drive for integrity, transparency and reform in Delta State’s higher education sector.

 

 

Abanum Felicitates With Okowa At 66

By
Hill Nigeria
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Abanum Salutes Okowa At 66

On this special day of yours, Your Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa words are not enough to express my joy for your milestone achievements.

As a father figure that you are you ensured that Deltans were united and this peace has continued to linger even after your tenure in office.

The Informal sector in the state were not left out as you ensured that they enjoued the dividend of good governance.

On behalf of Artisans in the state and my family, I wish you many more prosperous year filled witb good health.

Happy Birthday to my mentor and leader

 

Signed

Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Informal Sector

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