By Austin Ogwuda

... says “there is no limitation of tenure for Legislators in our country’s Constitution”

... the office of the Legislator is not by appointment, nomination or a gift”

“Any attempt to use intimidation, threat or subterfuge to deny Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu his constitutional rights to contest any election should be resisted by all well meaning Nigerians”.

These were the words of a group known as ‘Patani APC VANGUARD’, in a strongly-worded letter to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), dated 6th May 2027.

It is titled: ‘Position of Patani Local Government APC VANGUARD on the Patani Bomadi House of Representatives Seat’ and signed by Mr. Frank Ebikefe – Convener and Hon. Owhofataro Ejakpovi Justice – Secretary.

It reads in part:

“Mr Chairman,
This letter is written to you because it has become necessary to address a few misconceptions and a display of ignorance by a group of people who desire elective office but are afraid to face the people they want to represent in a party primaries.

“They have,  instead, hired a few people to demonstrate, take the the social media and conventional media to exhibit their ignorance about democratic norms.

“It is on record that Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu has been representing the good people of Patani/ Bomadi federal constituency effectively since 1999 and the evidence abound across the federal constituency.

“At every election, people from Patani local government area contested against Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu either in the primaries or general elections.
There was no time Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu was prevailed upon not to contest in the PDP primaries, because he was an asset to the PDP.

“It is therefore strange that some people are clamouring against his aspiration to seek election and want the leadership of the APC to disqualify him and hand over the ticket to them on a platter of gold.

“Mr Chairman, as stakeholders, we in one voice say that we are in support of Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu submitting himself to the electorates and we will abide by whatever the people will decide.

“We are opposed to any attempt to prevent him from participating in the APC primaries.
We are against any attempt to blackmail Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu out of the APC primaries.
Let everyone interested go before the electorates to test their popularity.

“It will be undemocratic and unconstitutional to prevent Rt Hon Nicholas Ebomo Mutu from participating in the APC primaries .
We are convinced that you (APC National Chairman) will toe the part of constitutionality in this case”, the letter added.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) today commemorates the 2026 World Press Freedom Day with focus on the invaluable role of journalism in conflict prevention and peace building.

The event held on 6th May 2026 at DOPF Secretariat, Asaba and brought together critical stakeholders in the information and media subsector in Delta State.

Dr. Gideon Udechukwu Isika, an Authority in Political Communication and Development Strategic Media, and Associate Professor of Mass Communication in Dennis Osadebey University, Asaba, was the Guest Speaker who emphasized on responsible journalism in times of conflict to engender peace in the society.

Isika noted that conflict defines and limits the social condition in which we live, and deeply affects emotions and interest. He further noted that the topic of this year’s edition is apt, given a Nigerian democracy bedeviled with social conflict and insecurity. He however posited that journalists have all it takes as a veritable tool for shaping the society towards the right direction.

“The task before this conference is to find the nexus between factual reporting and societal challenges if the aim of reducing social conflict and competition which is optimizing progress can be realized.”, Isika stated.

The University Don further emphasized that conflict with its associated squabbles and tensions is not entirely bad as it could lead to startling revelations and good outcomes, and this is where responsible and factual journalism is required.
:
He further itemized the Notion of Journalistic Principles: which includes respect for truth, the principles of freedom in reporting, factual reporting, not suppressing essential information or falsifying documents, rectify any published information which is found to be harmfully inaccurate,. amongst others. The scholar further cautioned journalists about grave professional offences like plagiarism; malicious representations; calumny, slander, libel, and unfounded accusations.

On professional integrity, Isika noted that this is the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility, and charged journalists to uphold this tenet, avoiding sedition and deliberate distortion, and subscribing to balanced reporting.

Criticising what he described as begging-bowl journalism and the tendency to package political office holders, Dr Isika urged practitioners to act as watchdogs rather than lapdogs of those in power.

Isika cautioned journalists to be careful as election draws closer, so as not to be used as tools to cause crises instead of peace building. “Journalists must resist pseudo-reality, reject manipulation, and refuse to sacrifice truth for personal gain or political convenience,” he said.

As journalists we must adhere strictly to global ethical standards, that includes accuracy, fairness, balance, and respect for diversity, while avoiding discrimination and inflammatory reporting that could escalate tensions.” “We must use our medium to promote dialogue, emphasise shared national values, and encourage and facilitate constructive conversations through talk shows, press engagements, and community forums aimed at reducing tensions.” He said.

“I’m optimistic that projecting the principles of journalism is the way to go and with everyone here acting in good conscience, the course of national rebirth can be a possibility.”: Isika concluded .

.

The event was also graced by Comrade Felix Ofou as Special Guest of Honor. Ofou, who is an Executive Assistant to Delta State Governor on News Media and Director Cruze FM, emphasized on financial independence as a proponent of responsible journalism.

“You cannot be a successful journalist if you are not financially independent”: Ofou stated, while recounting the dangers in journalism with reference to his experience in the Okotoko crisis.

Ofou, who’ was the former Chairman of the defunct Punch Chapel of the NUJ, and Human Rights Award winner of the NUJ National Body (Imo State Chapter), charged journalists to imbibe credibility professionalism and regulations in their practices, and engage in continuous training and development for professionalism, aspiring to be not only a journalist but have a medium.

In a goodwill message, the Director-General of Delta State Bureau for Information, Dr. Fred Latimore Esq. expressed appreciation to the Chairman and leadership of DOPF for organizing this memorable event.
He charged journalists to keep reading and studying for more certifications, while soliciting the support of DOPF as election draws closer in news dissemination for a successful election.

The Delta State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of DOPF for their sustained partnership with NOA. She deemed the theme of this year’s edition of press freedom day as apt, noting that without peace and serenity, we cannot have a safe society. She emphasized the importance of journalists, including the so-called “citizen journalists” in unravelling credible news, citing the recent cases of crime in Delta who was covered by the conventional social media.

Ikolomi ceased the opportunity to hail the growth of DOPF in strength and networks,  urging them to continue in the path of progressive growth.

The State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, in his goodwill message, emphasized on creativity and responsibility for balanced reportage.
“Before journalists are entitled to social and economic security, they should play their parts through responsible journalism that makes us citizenship journalists, different from citizen journalists.” Oyowe noted.

He further noted that there is need for a 4-way test, verification and fact-checking for balanced reportage, and urged journalists to be guided by these due diligence.  He mentioned that the Journalism Council of Nigeria is a necessary institution for the stability of journalism which will regulate journalists from the onset in tertiary institutions. He urged members to be up and doing to make the profession a noble one.

Speaking at the event is the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, who commended DOPF for convening the program on behalf of the entire Press family in Delta State.
She applauded DOPF for doing journalism and doing it very well, while encouraging credible and responsible publications in online journalism.

Unobunjo identified the role of NAWOJ as being supportive to other organs of NUJ in Delta State, and assured the DOPF of their continued support in programmes like this.

Earlier in the programme, the Chairman Organizing Committee, Comrade Julius Oweh noted that DOPF was established and operates on the principle of professionalism and responsible journalism for peace building as he set the course of the discussion.

Participants present raised concern on plethora of issues which includes failure of accessing credible source of news and accessing areas with heavy security presence, the snare of paymasters in journalism, citizen journalism, balanced reporting, fear of internal sabotage and power fighting back responsible journalism.

Responding, Dr Isika noted that reporting truth has a lot of danger, but charged journalists to be of good courage and hope in God while being very careful in their practices.

On citizen journalism, DOPF Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli clarified that DOPF members are registered journalists with registered media outfits for public accountability. He decried cases of citizen journalists and Facebook boys who have no media background but are engaged by the political class as their media aides, but emphasized that the requisite qualifications should be met before appointment as public aides.

In a vote of thanks, Enebeli extended the Forum’s profound gratitude to guests present for the event, and acknowledged DOPF responsibility as gatekeepers for public trust.  “As we approach election, the burden of journalism becomes greater with a need to ensuring that our platforms serve for peace instead of unrest.”  he said.

He assured stakeholders that DOPF advocates ethical reportage and publications to prevent crises through strategic communication with the Government and responsible publications to the public.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) today commemorates the 2026 World Press Freedom Day with focus on the invaluable role of journalism in conflict prevention and peace building.

The event held on 6th May 2026 at DOPF Secretariat, Asaba and brought together critical stakeholders in the information and media subsector in Delta State.

In a goodwill message, the State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), . Delta State, Comrade Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of DOPF for their sustained partnership with NOA. She deemed the theme of this year’s edition of press freedom day as apt, noting that without peace and serenity, we cannot have a safe society. She emphasized the importance of journalists, including the so-called “citizen journalists” in unravelling credible news, citing the recent cases of crime in Delta which was covered by the conventional social media.

Ikolomi ceased the opportunity to hail the growth of DOPF in strength and networks, urging them to continue in the path of progressive growth.

The guest speaker of the event, Dr. Gideon Udechukwu Isika, an Authority in Political Communication and Development Strategic Media, and Associate Professor of Mass Communication in Dennis Osadebey University, Asaba, emphasized on responsible journalism in times of conflict to engender peace in the society.

Isika noted that conflict defines and limits the social condition in which we live, and deeply affects emotions and interest. He further noted that the topic of this year’s edition is apt, given a Nigerian democracy bedeviled with social conflict and insecurity. He however posited that journalists have all it takes as a veritable tool for shaping the society towards the right direction.

“The task before this conference is to find the nexus between factual reporting and societal challenges if the aim of reducing social conflict and competition which is optimizing progress can be realized.”, Isika stated.

The University Don further emphasized that conflict with its associated squabbles and tensions is not entirely bad as it could lead to startling revelations and good outcomes, and this is where responsible and factual journalism is required.
:
He further itemized the Notion of Journalistic Principles: which includes respect for truth, the principles of freedom in reporting, factual reporting, not suppressing essential information or falsifying documents, rectify any published information which is found to be harmfully inaccurate,. amongst others. The scholar further cautioned journalists about grave professional offences like plagiarism; malicious representations; calumny, slander, libel, and unfounded accusations.

On professional integrity, Isika noted that this is the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility, and charged journalists to uphold this tenet, avoiding sedition and deliberate distortion, and subscribing to balanced reporting.

Criticising what he described as begging-bowl journalism and the tendency to package political office holders, Dr Isika urged practitioners to act as watchdogs rather than lapdogs of those in power.

Isika cautioned journalists to be careful as election draws closer, so as not to be used as tools to cause crises instead of peace building. “Journalists must resist pseudo-reality, reject manipulation, and refuse to sacrifice truth for personal gain or political convenience,” he said.

As journalists we must adhere strictly to global ethical standards, that includes accuracy, fairness, balance, and respect for diversity, while avoiding discrimination and inflammatory reporting that could escalate tensions.” “We must use our medium to promote dialogue, emphasise shared national values, and encourage and facilitate constructive conversations through talk shows, press engagements, and community forums aimed at reducing tensions.” He said.

“I’m optimistic that projecting the principles of journalism is the way to go and with everyone here acting in good conscience, the course of national rebirth can be a possibility.”: Isika concluded .

The event was also graced by Comrade Felix Ofou as Special Guest of Honor. Ofou, who is an Executive Assistant to Delta State Governor on News Media and Director Cruze FM, emphasized on financial independence as a proponent of responsible journalism.

“You cannot be a successful journalist if you are not financially independent”: Ofou stated, while recounting the dangers in journalism with reference to his experience in the Okotoko crisis.

Ofou, who’ was the former Chairman of the defunct Punch Chapel of the NUJ, and Human Rights Award winner of the NUJ National Body (Imo State Chapter), charged journalists to imbibe credibility professionalism and regulations in their practices, and engage in continuous training and development for professionalism, aspiring to be not only a journalist but have a medium.

In a goodwill message, the Director-General of Delta State Bureau for Information, Dr. Fred Latimore Esq. expressed appreciation to the Chairman and leadership of DOPF for organizing this memorable event.
He charged journalists to keep reading and studying for more certifications, while soliciting the support of DOPF as election draws closer in news dissemination for a successful election.

The State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, in his goodwill message, emphasized on creativity and responsibility for balanced reportage.
“Before journalists are entitled to social and economic security, they should play their parts through responsible journalism that makes us citizenship journalists, different from citizen journalists.” Oyowe noted.

He further noted that there is need for a 4-way test, verification and fact-checking for balanced reportage, and urged journalists to be guided by these due diligence. He mentioned that the Journalism Council of Nigeria is a necessary institution for the stability of journalism which will regulate journalists from the onset in tertiary institutions. He urged members to be up and doing to make the profession a noble one.

Speaking at the event is the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, who commended DOPF for convening the program on behalf of the entire Press family in Delta State.
She applauded DOPF for doing journalism and doing it very well, while encouraging credible and responsible publications in online publishing.

Unobunjo identified the role of NAWOJ as being supportive to other organs of NUJ in Delta State, and assured the DOPF of their continued support in programmes like this.

Earlier in the programme, the Chairman Organizing Committee, Comrade Julius Oweh noted that DOPF was established and operates on the principle of professionalism and responsible journalism for peace building as he set the course of the discussion.

Participants present raised concern on plethora of issues which includes failure of accessing credible source of news and accessing areas with heavy security presence, the snare of paymasters in journalism, citizen journalism, balanced reporting, fear of the internal sabotage or power fighting back.

Responding, Dr Isika noted that reporting truth has a lot of danger, but charged journalists to be of good courage and hope in God while being very careful in their practices.

On citizen journalism, DOPF Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli clarified that DOPF members are registered journalists with registered media outfits for public accountability. He decried cases of citizen journalists and Facebook boys who have no media background but are engaged by the political class as their media aides, but emphasized that the requisite qualifications should be met before appointment as public aides.

In a vote of thanks, Enebeli extended the Forum’s profound gratitude to guests present for the event, and acknowledged DOPF responsibility as gatekeepers for public trust. “As we approach election, the burden of journalism becomes greater with a need to ensuring that our platforms serve for peace instead of unrest.” he said.

He assured stakeholders that DOPF advocates ethical reportage and publications to prevent crises through strategic communication with the Government and responsible publications to the public.

In. a significant step to bring equity in the Infrastructural development of Delta State, the Executive Governor of Delta State, .Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Oborevwori performed today the official groundbreaking ceremony of the 10.8-kilometre Aboh–Akarai Road, which includes a 100-metre bridge across the Okiri River.

The event which took place on 6th May 2026 in Aboh Ndokwa East LGA,  Delta State,  showcased a project worth N29.8bn widely regarded as a transformative initiative aimed at improving connectivity, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing the quality of life for communities across Ndokwa East and its environs.

Governor Oborevwori described the Aboh-Akarai road project as. an important initiative that reflects his administration’s dedication to inclusive and sustainable development.  The 10.8km road, along with the 100-metre bridge across the Okiri River, is a strategic investment that will improve connectivity, facilitate commerce, and enhance the overall well-being of our people.

“Our administration remains guided by the MORE Agenda—focused on Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security. Today’s event is a clear demonstration of our commitment to delivering on these promises”: Oborevwori assures.

Speaking further, the Governor appreciated the people of Ndokwa Nation for their continued support and trust in this administration,  adding that their cooperation motivates him to do more.  He also assured the people that this project will be executed with the highest standards of quality and accountability

Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Sir Monday John Onyeme, praised Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori for his consistent commitment to infrastructure development across the state. He noted that since assuming office, the Governor has prioritized people-oriented projects, particularly within Ndokwa Nation—covering Ukwuani, Ndokwa East, and Ndokwa West.

Chief Onyeme described the road project as a key component of the administration’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on delivering meaningful development, expanding opportunities, and fostering inclusive growth across Delta State.

He further reaffirmed the continued support of the Ndokwa people for the Governor, acknowledging the administration’s visible impact in driving development and community transformation.

The Honourable Member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani federal constituency at the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi expressed profound appreciation to the Governor for bringing this project to his people.

Today represents a defining moment in our collective journey toward sustainable development and economic progress. He described the project as more than just an infrastructure project, but a strategic investment in the future of Ndokwa people. “This project will strengthen connectivity, enhance trade and agriculture, and promote social and economic integration across our communities.”, Ezechi admits.

“For many years, our people have faced difficulties in movement and access. Today, we mark the beginning of a lasting solution—one that will bring long-term benefits to present and future generations.”, he said.

On behalf of the people of Ndokwa East, the Reps member thanked the Governor for his visionary leadership and commitment to equitable development across Delta State,  noting that his administration has clearly demonstrated that governance is most meaningful when it directly impacts the lives of the people, with the ongoing projects across Ndokwa Nation as testaments to the Governor’s commitment.

The event drew the presence of traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, and residents, many of whom expressed optimism that the project would significantly ease transportation challenges and unlock new economic opportunities in the area.

Media practitioners in Delta State has been cautioned against the rising spread of defamatory remarks within the political arena as the elections draw closer.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu who was represented by the Director of New Media, Mr Timothy Agbaragu gave warning during the fourth anniversary of the Hill Nigeria Media and capacity-building training for media personnel which held in Asaba.
Aniagwu criticized what he described as an increasing pattern of misinformation, unfounded accusations, and personal attacks among political players, stressing that such behavior not only weakens democratic principles but also endangers peace and erodes public confidence in the electoral process.
He noted that the warning comes at a time of intensified political activities and growing tension ahead of the elections.
The Commissioner raised concerns that if such defamatory content are left unchecked, it could incite conflict or mislead the electorate.
The Commissioner called on politicians, their supporters, and media professionals to ensure all information are properly verified before dissemination and to focus on issue-based campaigns instead of resorting to personal attacks.
While commending the host for the initiative, he urged journalists to uphold professionalism by providing accurate, factual, and credible reports.
On his part, the Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Mayor Chinedu Enujeko commended the host for her dedication, clear vision, and unwavering commitment to building a platform that unites people for meaningful dialogue and positive transformation.
He emphasized that initiatives like this were crucial in empowering individual particularly young people and promoting unity.

In his goodwill message, he warmly congratulated the host on the successful delivery of the programme and wished her continued progress in future endeavours.
“I commend you for organizing such an outstanding programme. Your passion and hard work are evident, and I wish you even greater success as you continue to make a positive impact,” he stated.
He further acknowledged that the host has played a significant role in positively influencing and shaping his political career.
Addressing the participants, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of UNIDEL, Agbor Professor Patrick Ijeh, and a senior Lecturer, Sub Dean in the department of Journalism and media studies, Faculty of Humanities, Federal University Otuoke, Dr. Blessing Umunnah urged journalists to remain committed to truth and uphold the ethics of the profession despite external pressures.
They highlighted key areas including fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and combating misinformation.
The training aimed at strengthening professionalism amongst media practitioners attracted journalists and media stakeholders from across the country, focused on promoting credible and responsible reportage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In her remarks, the organizer of the programme, Mrs Christy Aboghe emphasized the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion and safeguarding democratic values. She noted that as the election period approaches, there is a growing need for accuracy, balance, and ethical standards in reportage.
Some participants who spoke at the event described the training as timely and impactful, adding that it has equipped them with modern tools and strategies to navigate the evolving media landscape.
They also praised the host for a well-structured and engaging programme, expressing hope for more editions in the future.
The anniversary celebration also featured goodwill messages and a renewed call for collaboration amongst stakeholders to ensure credible and peaceful electoral processes in 2027.

Barely 48 hours after purchasing his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, Councillor representing Ezhionum Ward 7 in Ukwuani Local Government Area, Hon. Chukwuemeke K. Victor, has formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Ukwuani/Ndokwa Federal Constituency, drawing early endorsements from party faithful and community stakeholders.

The declaration, held on May 1, 2026, at Ezhionum Town Hall, attracted a large gathering of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ukwuani, Ndokwa West and Ndokwa East Local Government Areas, who turned out to receive the aspirant and signal support for his ambition.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Chukwuemeke expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that his purchase of the nomination form marks what he described as a shift from “ineffective and self-serving representation” to a more vibrant, youth-driven and result-oriented leadership. He solicited the support and endorsement of the people, assuring them of purposeful representation.

A chieftain of the APC in Ezhionum, High Chief Isaac Anowa, JP, described the aspirant as a worthy son of the soil, stressing that “charity begins at home,” and assured him of the community’s backing while offering prayers for the success of his ambition.

Also speaking, the Ukwuani LGA City Boy Coordinator, Hon. Isaiah Atuma, commended the courage and determination of the aspirant, urging the people of Ezhionum and the wider Ndokwa nation to support the project and pray for its success.

Chairman of APC Ward 7, Engr. Lucky Ojumah, lauded the emergence of Hon. Chukwuemeke in the race, describing it as a historic moment for Ezhionum. He noted that it was the first time the community would be producing a House of Representatives aspirant, and called on the people to rally behind what he termed a collective project.

Speaking with journalists, Hon. Chukwuemeke acknowledged the calibre of contenders in the race, including Hon. Nicholas Ossai Ossai and the incumbent, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, but maintained that his candidacy represents a new direction. “We are coming with fresh ideas and a new mantra—New Era, New Order. Our focus is on consultation-driven representation that reflects the will of the people,” he said.

The councillor also addressed the lingering issue of the Independent Power Project (IPP) step-down in Ndokwa, describing the situation as politicised and detrimental to the people. He pledged to undertake a fact-finding approach to identify bottlenecks and propose workable solutions if elected.

On legislative performance, Hon. Chukwuemeke pointed to his track record at the grassroots, particularly in empowerment initiatives and provision of social amenities, assuring that he would replicate and expand such efforts at the national level.
He further outlined the core responsibilities of a legislator, including lawmaking, sponsoring bills and moving motions that directly impact citizens’ welfare. “Every nation is governed by legislation, institutional procedures and government policies. We intend to contribute meaningfully by enacting laws that will restore the dividends of democracy to our people,” he stated.

The aspirant also paid a consultative visit to Umudike community in Ossisa, where he sought the endorsement of party stakeholders. Speaking on behalf of the community, APC stalwart, Mr. Sylvester Obiandu, welcomed the team and assured them of the community’s support, describing the ambition as timely and well-intentioned.
In the same vein, Mr. Azuka Uwafili emphasised the need for youth representation, noting that the people were eager for a departure from what he described as underwhelming past representation.
Responding, Hon. Chukwuemeke assured the people of Ossisa that he would return for a full consultation and formal campaign engagement, during which he would unveil his manifesto.

Earlier, the aspirant had met with members of the Ukwuani Legislative Council (8th Assembly) in Akoku community as part of his consultations. He formally presented his nomination form to the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Durell Ossai.

Ossai commended the aspiration, describing it as a bold step, while urging unity among members of the assembly and encouraging the aspirant to foster cohesion within the political structure.

Corroborating this position, Hon. Marvin Ogbuta of Umutu Ward 1 described the aspirant as “vocal, intelligent and courageous,” affirming that the Councillors’ Forum strongly supports youth participation in leadership. He noted that the Ndokwa nation is ready for a generational shift and pledged support for the aspiration.

Other councillors present included Deputy Leader, Hon. Princess Olise (Umutu Ward 2), Hon. Ilugo and Hon. Ikechukwu Oji (Ebedei Ward 3A and 3B), Hon. Christian Odalonu, and Hon. Shiteje Dickson a 7th Assembly Councillor, among others.
Highlights of the event included traditional kolanut presentation, formal declaration, endorsement of nomination forms, and group photographs.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), a body of professional journalists, editors and media entrepreneurs, has announced plans to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day on Wednesday, May 6, in Asaba, the Delta State capital, with a renewed focus on the role of journalism in fostering peace and preventing conflict.

In a statement issued on Today, Saturday May 2, 2026, by the Secretary of the planning committee, Mr. Inneh-Ozah Barth, and its Chairman, Mr. Julius Oweh, the forum disclosed that the event will hold at the DOPF Secretariat, near St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, beginning at 11:00am.

The organisers said the celebration, though globally observed on May 3, was rescheduled to May 6 to enable wider participation of stakeholders within and outside the state.

According to the statement, eminent communication scholar, Dr. Gideon Uduchukwu Isika of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, will deliver a keynote lecture titled “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” a theme drawn from this year’s global focus on shaping a peaceful future through responsible media practice.

World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation adopted at the 26th session of UNESCO’s General Conference in 1991.

The day traces its roots to the historic Windhoek Declaration, adopted by African journalists in Namibia in 1991, which called for a free, independent and pluralistic press as a cornerstone of democracy and development. Since then, May 3 has been set aside annually to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom, evaluate its state across the globe, defend the media from attacks on its independence, and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The DOPF noted that this year’s event will also feature Mr. Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, as Special Guest of Honour, alongside media professionals, scholars and practitioners expected to converge for the engagement.

The forum emphasised that the celebration would provide a platform not only to honour the media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, but also to deepen public understanding of the indispensable role of the press in governance, accountability and democratic consolidation.

It added that the gathering would further serve as an opportunity to reinforce ethical journalism, promote responsible reporting, and strengthen collaboration among media stakeholders in advancing peace, unity and sustainable development in the society.