The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, Alias Tompolo has called on protesters in Warri Federal Constituency to sheath their sword and give dialogue a chance while challenging INEC to do the right thing in warri wards delineation of Warri Federal Constituency.

Recall that on Monday 8th June 2026, heavy protest broke out in the oil rich region over non-implementation of ward delineation order by INEC which led to the shutdown of 13 oil flow stations operated by three energy giants, Anglo-Dutch oil conglomerate, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), American-owned Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) and NESTOIL/NECONDE.

Speaking though his Chief Press Secretary in Oporoza Town, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West LGA, Delta State, Tompolo confirmed that there has been mass action by peaceful women and youths from our various communities in Warri Federal Constituency occupying oil and gas installations in the Escravos and Warri river areas.

The Tantita helmsman ceased the opportunity to join many well meaning Nigerians who have been calling for a peaceful resolution of the impasse. “I join all well meaning Nigerians to call for a peaceful resolution. The Ijaw nation has from time immemorial been known for their peaceful ways and we cannot deviate from our history.” he appealed.

“The current political situation arising from the failure of INEC to complete the delineation of wards in the Warri Federal Constituency and mass action must not be allowed to be hijacked or to degenerate into violence of any sort.” Tompolo added.

He therefore called for calm in view of a meeting of community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to enable them devise a way forward and seek peaceful resolution to the impasse.

Tompolo also challenged INEC to be committed to doing the right thing and restore the peace in Warri and environs, while calling on the people of Warri (whether Ijaw, Itsekiri or Urhobo) to be calm and wait patiently for INEC to do the right thing.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment to serving all Deltans with dedication and fairness, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation, declaring that his administration remains focused on inclusive governance, prudent management of resources, and sustainable development across the state.

The governor made the declaration while receiving a delegation of Catholic priests from the Warri, Issele-Uku, and Bomadi dioceses, led by Rev. Monsignor John Ike Aduba, at Government House, Asaba.

Oborevwori expressed appreciation to the clergy for their prayers, support, and guidance, describing their role in fostering peace and good governance as invaluable.

According to him, the prayers of the faithful have contributed significantly to the successes recorded by his administration.

“The Bible enjoins us to pray for those in authority so that they may govern well. If people say today that I am doing well, it is because of the prayers being offered on my behalf. God has given us the strength and wisdom to serve the people of Delta State,” he said.

The governor commended the Catholic Church for maintaining a dignified and responsible approach to public issues, noting that the clergy had consistently offered constructive counsel through appropriate channels.

He said his administration was guided by the fear of God and a determination to ensure that all Deltans enjoy the dividends of democracy through infrastructural development, human capital advancement, empowerment programmes, and enhanced security.

Oborevwori disclosed that his administration had continued to maintain fiscal discipline, ensuring prompt payment of workers’ salaries and contractors without resorting to borrowing.

“Every project we award has financial backing. From the day I assumed office, I made it clear that any contractor engaged by this administration would be paid for work duly executed. We have been able to pay workers and contractors without borrowing, and that is by the grace of God,” he stated.

The governor also spoke on recent tensions surrounding the Warri Federal Constituency delineation issue, revealing that he had convened a meeting with leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

“We have witnessed crises in Warri in the past, and we do not want a return to those difficult days. There is no reason for conflict. We must continue to embrace peacefull coexistence, and I am glad that all parties have shown understanding,” he said.

Reiterating his commitment to inclusive governance, Oborevwori emphasized that he remained governor for every Deltan and not for any particular ethnic group.

“Delta State is blessed with diverse ethnic nationalities, and the only way to govern successfully is to ensure that every group have a sense of belonging. If a government is not inclusive, it cannot enjoy the trust and support of the people.

“I am not governor for any particular ethnic group; I am governor for all Deltans. Everything we have done has been guided by the principle of inclusiveness,” he added.

The governor further assured the delegation that the state government would continue to support mission-owned educational institutions and other initiatives that contribute to the development of the state.

Responding to requests by the clergy, Oborevwori said the government would examine the possibility of supporting the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre at Oleri in Udu Local Government Area, including consideration for the construction of the access road to the facility.

Oborevwori also reflected on his Catholic upbringing, recalling that his late father remained a devoted member of the Church throughout his lifetime.

“I did not become governor to enrich myself. I became governor to serve. I am already comfortable. My passion is the work and improve the lives of our people. By God’s grace, when I leave office in 2031, there will be tangible achievements to point to,” he said.

Very Rev. Prof. Jude Obiunu who spoke earlier on behalf of the delegation, commended the governor for his commitment to equitable development and inclusive governance across the state.

He assured the governor of the Church’s continued prayers and support, noting that the Catholic community remained encouraged by the administration’s efforts to spread development projects across all parts of Delta State.

“The Church desires good governance and the delivery of the dividends of democracy to all people. From what we have seen, you are not a sectional or tribal-minded governor. Your projects and programmes have touched every nook and cranny of Delta State,” Obiunu said.

He appealed to the governor to sustain support for mission schools across the state, noting that many of the institutions still require infrastructure and government assistance to provide quality education.

The cleric also requested government intervention on the access road and security lighting leading to the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre at Oleri, saying improved infrastructure would enhance accessibility and promote spiritual activities at the centre.

He urged the governor to remain focused and continue carrying all Deltans along, irrespective of political or ethnic affiliation.

The visit ended with special prayers offered by the priests for Governor Oborevwori, Delta State, and Nigeria.

The apex socio-cultural organization of Ndokwa Nation, Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), Tuesday passed a vote of implicit confidence in Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his inclusive, equitable, exemplary and development-driven leadership.

The vote of confidence came during a courtesy visit by the leadership of NNU, elders and stakeholders of Ndokwa Nation to the Governor at Government House, Asaba, where the delegation praised his administration’s commitment to fairness, accessibility and infrastructural development across Delta State.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, President-General of NNU, Chief Amaechi Asugwuni, said the visit was aimed at appreciating the Governor for his numerous interventions in Ndokwa land and across the state.

According to him, the Ndokwa people had continued to enjoy the Governor’s goodwill, respect and commitment to equitable development, noting that his administration had provided ample evidence of purposeful governance.

He specifically lauded the completion and handover of Ndokwa House, describing it as a landmark project that would serve as a centre for consultation, planning and collective decision-making for generations of Ndokwa people.

Asugwuni also commended the Governor for the completion of the Asaba-Kwale-Ughelli Road, saying the project had significantly improved connectivity between Asaba and Ndokwa communities while providing a strategic alternative route within the state.

He further praised Governor Oborevwori’s open-door policy, noting that requests for engagement and consultation had consistently received prompt attention.

While appreciating the governor for all his doing in the state, the Ndokwa leader raised concerns over electricity supply challenges in the area and appealed for the step down of the Okpai Independent Power Plant.

He, however, said; “as a people, we condemn in the strongest possible terms every act of vandalism directed at public infrastructure. We cannot continue to demand development while allowing few individuals to sabotage facilities meant to improve our lives”.

Asugwuni apologized for the losses occasioned by the vandalism of power facilities and assured the Governor that community leaders were strengthening local security measures to prevent future occurrences.

The NNU President-General also appealed for the siting of higher institutions and critical infrastructure projects in Ndokwa land, including key road projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic development.

Asugwuni concluded by saying; “on behalf of the National Executive Council of Ndokwa Neku Union and the entire Ndokwa ethnic nationality, we unanimously pass a vote of confidence in Your Excellency, Rt Hon (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori in recognition of your exemplary, inclusive and development-oriented leadership”.

Responding, Governor Oborevwori thanked the leaders and people of Ndokwa Nation for their support and confidence in his administration, assuring them of his continued commitment to the development of all parts of Delta State.

The Governor particularly commended the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, describing him as a dedicated and effective public servant who had continued to contribute immensely to the growth and development of the state.

He also praised the leadership qualities of the Ndokwa Neku Union President-General, describing him as articulate, passionate and committed to the progress of his people.

Addressing concerns over electricity supply, Oborevwori acknowledged the challenges facing Ndokwa communities and lamented that repeated acts of vandalism had delayed efforts to restore power to affected areas.

He disclosed that the state government had approved additional funding for ongoing electrification projects and promised that work would soon commence in the affected communities.

The Governor said the government was also engaging the Transmission Company of Nigeria and other stakeholders to address electricity challenges, while assuring that the proposed Okpai Step-Down Facility remained under consideration.

He commended the Ndokwa Nation for publicly condemning vandalism, stressing that the destruction of public infrastructure increased project costs and slowed development.

On requests for additional educational institutions, Oborevwori noted that Ndokwa Nation already hosts a federal university and urged stakeholders to focus on strengthening existing institutions.

He also assured the delegation that several road projects requested by the people had either been approved or were already under construction.

The Governor emphasized that Ndokwa people occupied strategic positions in his administration, including the offices of the Deputy Governor, Commissioner for Energy and Commissioner for Finance, assuring them that their interests remained adequately represented.

Speaking on the 2027 political landscape, Oborevwori said the prevailing political arrangement in Delta State promotes continuity, stability and inclusiveness, adding that his administration remained focused on delivering projects rather than engaging in unnecessary publicity.

He reiterated that he remained Governor for all Deltans, irrespective of ethnic affiliation.

“What I do for Ndokwa, I will do for Isoko, Ijaw, Urhobo, Anioma and every other part of the state. The evidence is visible across Delta State. Our projects are spread throughout the state. We are showing results and we are showing our work,” the Governor stated.

Oborevwori thanked the delegation for visiting as a united front comprising traditional rulers, lawmakers, council chairmen and political leaders, assuring them of government’s continued partnership in advancing the development, unity and prosperity of Delta State.

The nation’s economy may suffer fresh setback following yesterday’s shutdown of 13 oil flow stations in Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State.

The oil facilities are operated by three energy giants, Anglo-Dutch oil conglomerate, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), American-owned Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) and NESTOIL/NECONDE.

Industry sources revealed that the 13 oil facilities collectively produced about 400,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

This implies that the nation stands to lose 400,000bpd in crude oil production in the wake of yesterday’s action by protesters.

The affected oil facilities were identified as Odidi 1 and 2, Batan, Ogbanabou, Jones Creek, Otunana, Egwa 1 and 2, Abiteye, Makaraba, Olero creek, Dibi field and Opuekeba flow stations.

The flow stations were seized by hundreds of women and youths from Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Isaba, Egbema and Diebiri Kingdoms, in Warri Federal Constituency, made of Warri South, South West and Warri North Local Government Areas of Delta State.

It was learnt that the protesters took over and occupied the facilities after edging out the companies’ security personnel and workers of the energy companies.

Reports from the companies also indicated that the protesters barred all logistic supplies to the three companies through the waterways, a development that further worsened the operations of the oil companies.

The aggrieved women and youths, mainly of Ijaw ethnic nationality, were protesting against the non-implementation of the recently approved ward delineation exercise by the National Electoral Commission of Nigeria (INEC).

They were of the opinions that their Itsekiri neighbours were behing clandestine moves to halt the implementation of the report, which they believed was rightly done by INEC.

The seizure of the facilities came less than 24 hours after the Ijaws and Urhobo of Warri Federal Constituency vowed to shut down oil production if INEC refused to implement the final delineation report.

The protesters insisted that oil production activities would remain halted until the recommended ward delineation exercise as approved by the nation’s electoral umpire was fully implemented.

The protesters displayed placards with such inscriptions such as “INEC: Implement Warri Delineation Report,” “Court Ordered Judgment on Wards and Polling Units Delineation,” and “No Implementation, No Production.”

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Chief (Mrs.) Maria Ebike accused INEC of deliberately delaying the implementation process despite the conclusion of consultations and recommendations aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over political representation in the area.

She said the ward delineation exercise was designed to ensure fairness, equity, and adequate representation for communities within the Warri Federal Constituency, adding that “some powerful forces in the Presidency” were behind moves to frustrate the implementation of the INEC’s report.

“We have waited patiently for the authorities to do the right thing. Since they continue to ignore our voices, we have no option but to demand justice through peaceful protests. No implementation of the ward delineation, no oil production,” Ebike, added.

The Supreme Court had in 2022 ordered a fresh delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency.

In obedience of the order by the apex court, INEC eventually carried out fresh ward delineation in Warri Federal and presented its final report to stakeholders in Asaba, the state’s capital on May 20th, 2026.

The implementation of the report had lately escalated tension among stakeholders of Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri in Warri and its riverside communities as the Ijaw and Urhobo accused their Itsekiri neighbours of mobilising contacts in the Presidency and Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to frustrate the legitimate action of the electoral body.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic train accident in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, which claimed four lives and left several others injured.

Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment from injuries sustained in the incident.

The Governor described the accident as heartbreaking and unfortunate, noting that the loss of lives was a painful tragedy for the affected families and the state at large.

He assured residents that the state government had swiftly mobilized relevant authorities to the scene of the accident to provide assistance to victims and ensure an effective emergency response.

According to the statement, Governor Oborevwori immediately directed the Commissioner for Special Duties, along with the Chairmen of Ika South and Ika North-East Local Government Areas, to move to the scene and coordinate rescue efforts.

The Governor also commended security agencies for their prompt intervention, disclosing that the Commissioner of Police was also at the scene and had deployed adequate security personnel to safeguard passengers’ luggage and other valuables in the train.

The statement further revealed that those who sustained injuries were promptly evacuated to nearby hospitals for medical attention, other survivors without injuries were moved to town, while the remains of deceased victims were deposited in the mortuary.

To facilitate the evacuation process, buses were immediately dispatched to convey survivors and injured passengers from the scene.

Providing an update on the condition of the victims, Chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Council, Hon. Monday Odigwe, disclosed that 35 injured passengers were receiving medical attention across three hospitals.

According to him, 13 victims are being treated at Central Hospital, Agbor, 12 at General Hospital, Owa-Oyibu, and 10 at General Hospital, Owa-Alero.

Odigwe also stated that officials had received assurances that efforts would be made to lift up the train on Tuesday.

Governor Oborevwori prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and also the fortitude for the families to bear the irreparable loss.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare and safety of residents and assured that the government would continue to monitor the situation and provide necessary support for those in the hospital.

Many feared dead as Warri-Itakpe train derails at Agbor in Ika South LG, Delta State with several injured.

As at press time, rescue teams were at the scene attending to victims and coordinating emergency response efforts.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has corroborated this report by confirming that four coaches of its Warri–Itakpe bound Train have capsized.

The Managing Director of NRC, Kayode Opeifa, said in a statement in Lagos on Monday, June 8, evening that NRC would provide updates on the accident as more details would emerge.

Opeifa said that emergency response teams had been deployed to the scene to manage the situation and assist passengers

“The corporation is closely monitoring developments and will provide a comprehensive update as more details emerge on the cause and extent of the derailment,” he said.

He urged members of the public to be calm and rely only on official communication channels for information regarding the accident. (NAN)

However,  this heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of vandalizing railway infrastructure which puts countless lives at risk.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday intervened in the tensions arising from the ward and unit delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, convening a high-level peace meeting with leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities at Government House, Asaba.

The meeting, which brought together ethnic leaders, security chiefs and top government officials, focused on preserving peace and fostering dialogue among stakeholders amid growing concerns over the delineation process.

Speaking during the meeting, Governor Oborevwori stressed the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of Warri, noting that peace and security remain central pillars of his administration’s MORE Agenda.

The governor said: “We want peace in Warri Federal Constituency. The stakeholders have assured me that they will keep to the peace accord. Under the MORE Agenda, we have promised Deltans enhanced peace and security, and we do not need any crisis in our dear state”.

“Warri is one family. There is nothing that we cannot resolve through dialogue. That is why I called this meeting, even at a short notice. We are ready to work together and sustain the peace we are enjoying. We will continue to work with security agencies and all ethnic nationalities to ensure lasting peace in the federal constituency and every part of the state”.

Speaking on behalf of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, Chief Godspower Gbenekama commended the governor for his intervention and assured Deltans that the Ijaw people remained committed to peace.

He said; “the governor has given us a marching order to ensure there is no crisis. I assure the people of Delta State that no Ijaw man will attack any Itsekiri man or village. It will not happen. By the grace of God, there will be continuous peace”.

Also speaking, Olorogun Victor Okumagba, who represented the Urhobo ethnic nationality, said; “for some time now, issues surrounding the ward and unit delineation in Warri Federal Constituency have been threatening the peace in Warri”.

“Today, the governor brought together the three ethnic nationalities, and after extensive discussions, we agreed that all parties should sheath their swords. We have also agreed to maintain and sustain peace for the benefit of all residents of Warri Federal Constituency”.

On behalf of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality, Chief Ayirimi Emami said on behalf of the Itsekiri people, “we came with our position regarding the ward delineation issue, but the governor has spoken and directed that everyone should keep their swords.

“We have all agreed to maintain peace and will return home to relay the message to our people”.

The meeting ended with a collective commitment by leaders of the three ethnic nationalities to uphold peace, and dialogue.

Political observers described the meeting as a significant step towards easing tensions and strengthening inter-ethnic harmony in the oil-rich constituency.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated HRM Okporua I, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, on the occasion of the first anniversary of his coronation and ascension to the throne of his forefathers.

Governor Oborevwori’s congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued on Saturday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon.

The Governor described the monarch’s first year on the throne as impactful and remarkable, noting that his reign has been characterized by wisdom, peace, unity, and purposeful leadership in Udu Kingdom.

He commended the traditional ruler for fostering harmony among his subjects and working closely with government and other stakeholders to promote development and stability in the kingdom.

Governor Oborevwori said that the monarch’s dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Udu Kingdom while embracing progressive initiatives had earned him the respect and admiration of his people and beyond.

According to the Governor, “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty, Okporua I, Ovie of Udu Kingdom, on the joyous occasion of the first anniversary of his coronation.

“Your Majesty’s reign within the past one year has brought renewed hope, unity and progress to the people of Udu Kingdom. Your commitment to peace, development and the welfare of your subjects is commendable and worthy of emulation.”

Governor Oborevwori prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, wisdom and strength for the monarch as he continues to provide purposeful leadership for the people of Udu Kingdom.

He expressed confidence that under the monarch’s stewardship, the kingdom would continue to witness greater peace, prosperity and socio-economic development.

The Governor wished His Royal Majesty, Okporua I, many more fruitful years on the throne and a successful reign marked by enduring achievements and blessings for the people of Udu Kingdom.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the member representing Isoko South Constituency II in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori conveyed his felicitations in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Saturday, describing the former Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly as a committed grassroots politician whose contributions to the development of his constituency and the state have remained remarkable.

The Governor noted that Onwo, an illustrious son of Olomoro Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area, has distinguished himself in public service through effective representation, dedication to the welfare of his constituents and unwavering commitment to democratic governance.

He commended the lawmaker’s outstanding performance as Chairman of the House Committee on Health, noting that he has continued to deploy his legislative experience and oversight functions toward strengthening the health sector in Delta State.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate Hon. Ferguson Onwo, PhD, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary.

“Hon. Onwo has over the years demonstrated commitment to public service and the advancement of democratic ideals. His contributions to legislative development and the health sector are commendable and worthy of recognition.

“As he celebrates this significant milestone, I join his family, friends, political associates and the people of Isoko South Constituency II in thanking God for his life and praying for continued good health, wisdom and greater accomplishments in the years ahead,” the Governor stated.

Governor Oborevwori wished the lawmaker many more years of fruitful service to the state and humanity.