The Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, has urged orphanages across the state to adopt best practices and streamline adoption processes to safeguard the welfare of children in their care.
This call was made during a recent committee meeting that brought together Heads of Personnel Management from local government areas, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other stakeholders committed to enforcing the Child Rights Law in Delta State.
In her address, Mrs. Agas expressed concerns over irregularities observed in some of the state’s 62 registered orphanages under the ministry’s supervision.
“Children in these facilities must receive proper care and attention. However, we’ve noticed cases where some children have living relatives or are withheld by orphanages from being adopted,” she said.
She also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to regulate the admission process for children in orphanages to prevent exploitation and ensure the facilities cater to children who genuinely need care.
“This regulation will minimise cases of children with living relatives being admitted, ensuring resources are allocated to the truly vulnerable,” Mrs. Agas explained.
The Permanent Secretary further outlined challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, including insufficient funding, manpower, and logistics, but reassured attendees of the ministry’s commitment to overcoming these hurdles through collaboration.
A representative from the Delta State Correctional Centre, Idongeit Lucky, also raised concerns about the plight of infants living with incarcerated mothers, calling for additional support for these vulnerable children.
Meanwhile, Mr. Patrick Ochei, representing the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, highlighted persistent challenges in addressing child abuse.
“Many cases are withdrawn due to fear of stigmatisation or threats from suspects, while cultural pressures often lead families to settle informally, undermining legal processes,” he said.
Mr. Ochei also criticised bureaucratic delays and financial demands that hinder access to justice for child abuse victims. He emphasised the need for public awareness campaigns and commended the NUJ’s role in amplifying the committee’s efforts through consistent media coverage.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to enforcing the Child Rights Law and fostering partnerships to create a safer environment for children in Delta State.
Abel Johngold is a prominent journalist and media professional based in Delta State, Nigeria. He is the publisher of Spade Nigeria, an online news platform that provides news and analysis across various topics. Johngold also holds the position of Chairman of the Federal Information Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council. His contributions to journalism in Delta State have earned him recognition and respect within the media community.
Recently, Johngold gained public attention following the burial of his mother, Deaconess Victoria Omatie Esiorho. The ceremony, held in December 2023, was a significant event attended by dignitaries, colleagues, and representatives of various organizations. Deaconess Esiorho, a retired Superintendent of Police, was celebrated for her dedication to justice and truth throughout her life. During his tribute, Johngold expressed deep admiration for his mother’s life and the values she upheld, emphasizing her influence as a strong and principled figure.
In addition to his journalistic career, Johngold is affiliated with various professional bodies, including the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Delta Online Publishers Forum. His involvement in these organizations highlights his commitment to advancing the standards of journalism and public communication in Nigeria.
The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, Vito Corsica Deck, commemorated World Human Rights Day on Tuesday in Asaba, Delta State, alongside the global community.
In a statement signed by Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwadei, the Pyrates Cap’n of Vito Corsica Deck, the group emphasized the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Describing the day as a “poignant reminder of fundamental rights and freedoms,” the NAS lamented the persistent human rights violations in Nigeria, despite the ideals outlined in the declaration.
NAS Human Rights Day
The statement expressed concern over the alarming state of human rights abuses in the country, particularly the conduct of security agencies. Citing the #EndBadGovernance protest of August 1, 2024, where at least 17 protesters lost their lives nationwide, the group condemned the excessive use of force during peaceful demonstrations.
Call for Accountability
The NAS identified impunity among security personnel as a key driver of the human rights crisis. “Extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and prolonged detentions have become commonplace,” the statement read, noting that these abuses disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, including youths, ethnic minorities, and marginalized communities.
NAS Human Rights Day
The group also highlighted the plight of displaced Nigerians due to forced evictions, violence, and insurgency, which have left many living in fear. Women and girls were specifically mentioned as facing significant challenges, including gender-based violence, harmful traditional practices, and restricted access to essential services.
Freedom of Expression Under Threat
Citing the case of human rights activist Dele Farotimi, who was arrested for criticizing the government’s COVID-19 response, the NAS drew attention to the shrinking space for freedom of expression in Nigeria. “The government’s intolerance for dissent and its use of repressive tactics to silence critical voices is alarming,” the group stated.
Recommendations for Reform
To address these issues, the NAS called on the Nigerian government to take decisive action by:
Holding human rights violators accountable, regardless of their rank.
Conducting impartial investigations into allegations of abuse.
Strengthening the judiciary to deliver timely and fair justice.
Implementing comprehensive police reforms to enhance accountability and professionalism.
Protecting vulnerable populations, including women, children, and marginalized communities.
Additionally, the group urged the government to repeal oppressive laws such as the Cybercrime Act, which has been used to stifle journalists and activists, and to uphold citizens’ rights to peaceful protests and freedom of expression.
A Renewed Call for Justice and Equality
“As we observe Human Rights Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to dignity, equality, and justice,” the NAS stated. The group called for international collaboration and systemic reforms to promote accountability and ensure that the rights of all Nigerians are protected.
The National Association of Seadogs concluded with a plea to the government to prioritize human rights and build a nation where every citizen can live in peace, security, and freedom.
Peace has remained elusive to the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) since the formation of the party on 6th February, 2013, from a merger of three largest opposition parties. APC filed for its first-ever electoral contest in Nigeria in Delta through Olorogun O’tega Emerhor who sought to replace the late Senator Akpor Pius Ewherido, who was then senator representing Delta Central in the Senate. Late Senator Ewherido was one of the leading national figures in Nigeria that formed APC. He, however, died barely few months after the party was formed on June 30, 2013. Ewherido’s demise left the party without a leader in Delta as politicians struggled to get hold of the structure for the party at the time.
The Delta chapter has been embroiled in crisis since that election when some of its members refused to work for the victory of the party’s candidate in the October senatorial by-election. Since then, it has been one day one fight. From 2013 till date, the Delta APC has not presented a united front for any electoral contest.
Otega Emerhor
The internal wrangling did not abate in subsequent elections in the state. The situation has led to poor performance for electoral victories at the polls. The internal challenges have also culminated in a fractured party structure that impeded on the party’s performance in the 2023 elections. Though, the party was unable to win the governorship seat, Delta APC made tremendous progress by winning two senatorial seats, a House of Representatives’ seat and seven seats into the Delta State House of Assembly. This is the biggest achievement an opposition party had pulled since return of democracy in 1999 in Delta State.
The party’s loss in the 2023 election was blamed on internal strife as some party members worked against some candidates of the party, particularly the governorship candidate and then Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.
Olorogun Otega Emerhor, CON
Immediately after the 2023 general elections, the party was thrown into a major crisis with counter-accusations against some leaders of the party. The crisis led the Elder Omeni Sobotie’s headed Delta APC to constitute a Reconciliation Committee chaired by the party’s 2015 governorship candidate and founding leader, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor to meet with aggrieved chieftains across the state.
The Emerhor-led committee was tasked with investigating the causes of this disunity and proposing a path forward. Months after the committee was set up, the committee has since submitted her report to the State Working Committee (SWC). The report comprehensively detailed causes of internal conflicts, grievances, and a set of strategic recommendations to mend the party and position it for success in future elections.
Party Divided Against Herself
According to the report, the committee identified that Delta APC is severely fragmented, weakened by distrust among its leaders and divisions among its members. It noted that though there are many prominent and influential leaders within the party, but these figures lead separate factions, creating an environment of mistrust and competition rather than collaboration. This disunity has filtered down to the grassroots level, where party members, following their respective leaders, are equally divided and suspicious of one another.
“The party is divided, and the State Working Committee (SWC), tasked with leading the party, is not strong enough to unite the members. The SWC’s members are themselves fractured, and because of this, the committee lacks the leadership required to heal the divisions,” the report partly read.
Further compounding these challenges, the SWC suffers from a lack of legitimacy. The report reveals that the committee was not formed through an inclusive process, leaving many leaders feeling detached and disconnected from its activities. “The SWC’s composition was flawed from the start,” the report notes. Adding, “Many leaders do not feel ownership of the committee, and there is no process for funding its activities.”
In addition to these internal conflicts, the committee identified several external factors that have contributed to the weakening of the party. These include poor communication, lack of regular meetings, financial underfunding, and an overall lack of trust in leadership.
The Path to Reconciliation
To address these issues, the committee has proposed several key strategies aimed at unifying the party and restoring its effectiveness. A central recommendation is the establishment of a Delta APC Leadership Council, which will serve as a collegiate leadership body to unify the various factions.
The report suggests that this council should include a wide range of political figures, such as governors, former governors, ministers, senators, and members of the National Working Committee (NWC). “Delta APC does not have a governor to provide central leadership,” the report explains. “As a result, a leadership council that includes the most influential figures from all strata of the party is necessary.”
The proposed council will be co-chaired by the immediate past governorship candidate of the party and the current Honourable Minister. The leadership of the council will ensure a collaborative and inclusive approach to party decision-making. The council’s functions will include advising the SWC, assisting in funding the party’s activities, and helping to streamline the nomination process for appointments and elections.
Beyond the state-level leadership, the committee also emphasised the importance of building unity at the grassroots level. To this end, the report calls for the establishment of Senatorial Councils, Local Government Area (LGA) Councils, and Ward Councils. These councils are designed to foster unity within local structures, reduce factionalism, and ensure that party members at all levels feel included in the decision-making process.
The Senatorial Councils, for example, will be responsible for addressing issues related to party unity and will involve key stakeholders such as current and former federal and state political appointees, legislators, and party executives. Each council will meet quarterly, with a quorum of one-third of members required for decisions to be made.
At the LGA level, councils will work closely with the Senatorial Councils to unite factions, while Ward Councils will focus on grassroots mobilization and engagement. The report emphasizes that these councils will prioritize unity above all else, working together to align the party’s efforts and build a more cohesive structure.
Nexus Between Party Funding and Internal Democracy
One of the most pressing issues identified in the report is the party’s lack of a consistent and reliable funding mechanism. The committee recommends that the State Leadership Council take responsibility for instituting and overseeing fundraising efforts, with a focus on monthly levies from members, particularly political appointees, elected officials, and other influential figures within the party.
“The current system of fundraising is inadequate,” the report highlights. “The lack of funding has significantly hindered the ability of the party at all levels to meet its operational needs and hold regular meetings.”
In addition to financial restructuring, the report also tackles issues of internal democracy, which has been a source of considerable grievance among party members. The committee recommends that the Leadership Council work with the National Working Committee (NWC) to conduct inclusive congresses where positions are contested on a level playing field. This approach would avoid the imposition of candidates and officials, which has led to dissatisfaction and discontent within the party ranks.
“We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of past congresses,” the report asserts. “There must be an inclusive, transparent process that respects the rights of all party members.
“The leadership of the council shall compose of the immediate past governorship candidate of the party and the current honourable minister as co-chairmen. A secretary to council shall be designated/elected from among members at the inaugural meeting. The secretary shall come from a senatorial district different from those of the co-chairmen. Council meetings, secretary to council shall convene meetings of the council after consultation with the leadership. The secretary may convene a meeting upon the request of the state party chairman if the co-chairmen fail to agree to call a meeting.
The council shall meet at least once in every quarter and meetings of the council shall be hosted by member leaders on a rotational/ voluntary basis. This is to assist foster friendships and camaraderie. However, emergency meeting(s) can be convened in-between by the secretary subject to consultation and approval by the council leadership or upon request by the state chairman. The quorum for meetings of the council shall be 1/3 of the members provided a co-chairman and the state party chairman are present. Decisions by the council shall be by a simple majority of those in attendance.
The report also details the grievances expressed by party members during the reconciliation process. Key issues include:
Disunity and Distrust: The failure of party leaders to work together and support the collective interests of the party has led to fragmented support and ineffective campaigning.
Self-Serving Interests: Many leaders are accused of prioritizing personal agendas over the common good, which has resulted in poor decision-making and internal sabotage.
Imposition of Candidates: The lack of consultation in the selection of candidates and officials has led to widespread dissatisfaction and disaffection.
Olorogun Otega Emerhor
Financial Mismanagement: The inadequate funding of election campaigns has left the party vulnerable to financial inducements from opposition parties.
Lack of Regular Meetings: The failure to hold frequent meetings has left party members uninformed and disconnected from the decision-making process.
A Unified Future for Delta APC
The Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led Reconciliation Committee has provided a roadmap for restoring unity and strength to the Delta State APC. Through its recommendations, which include the formation of a Leadership Council, grassroots councils, a sustainable funding strategy, and a commitment to internal democracy, the committee aims to address the long-standing issues that have undermined the party’s cohesion.
In conclusion, the report offers hope for a united Delta APC capable of challenging for political power in future elections in the oil-rich Delta. However, it is clear that the success of these recommendations will depend on the willingness of party leaders to set aside personal interests and work towards the collective good of the party.
Sadly, few party leaders for their self preservation and personal interest, are fighting so hard to ensure that this path to success for the Delta APC doesn’t succeed. They have employed all forms of antidemocratic strategies, including outright propaganda spoil and demarket Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led Delta APC Reconciliation Committee and it’s implications. The route these leaders took when they hijacked the party structure in a winners takes it all during the last party Congress which resulted in party’s poor outing in the last election even when Deltans were ready for a change of government, but the party failed to capitalize on it because it’s was a “One Strong Man Show!”
“The unity of Delta APC rests on the ability of its leaders to trust one another and put the party first,” the report concludes. “Only then can the party regain its strength and achieve victory in future elections.”
Olorogun Otega Emerhor and APC
Comrade Unue Emeka, writes from Asaba, Delta State
Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Delta State Commissioner for Information, has played a significant role in the media evolution and political landscape in Delta State. Deploying a well tested, strategic, media management approach, which he honed to near perfection in his previous engagements, particularly as State Publicity Secretary of Delta PDP, Dr. Osuoza has steadily and systematically delivered on his defined portfolio mandate, which is fundamentally anchored, on shaping the collective public perception of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration and effectively advancing the MORE Agenda, positively.
Operating within the existing ambit of extant statutes and principles, both professionally and administratively, Dr. Osuoza has established his own stylistic imprimatur on the media relations landscape in the State, by combining traditional communication methods with emerging modern strategies offered by new media and digital platforms, to disseminate appropriate textual content, complemented by corroborative visual optics, to create a much desired clarity in the promotional messaging of the M.O.R.E Agenda’s sectoral accomplishments.
By effectively utilizing social media, television, radio and print, he has amplified the successes of the MORE Agenda and engendered public discourse around the administration’s initiatives. His excellent ability to craft engaging narratives, has not only addressed the existential concerns of our peoples, but has also inspired hope and captured the genuine, uncensored joys, euphoria and optimism they have continued to express, with the delivery of life impacting projects in their own corner of the state.
Through these platforms, he has strategically shared updates, responded to questions, encouraged discourse between the government and the people and guaranteed the constancy of the administration’s milestones and ongoing projects, by reinforcing a message of transparency and progress.
This holistic, all inclusive approach, has ensured that the state government’s initiatives are communicated effectively, which has been vital in building a positive image of the government amongst the majority of the citizens, thus fostering a better understanding of the systemic goals and verifiable achievements delivered by the M.O.R.E Agenda, under the able and dynamic leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Indeed, Osuoza’s efforts have not only reimagined public awareness through the robust involvement and participation of not just critical stakeholders and direct beneficiaries in the ownership of the various landmark achievement stories across the three Senatorial zones, they have also maintained a consistent fidelity to professionalism and developmental journalism ethics, which celebrates honesty, transparency and unambiguity, in the state’s media relations with its publics.
Dr. Osuoza’s unshakable commitment in promoting the MORE Agenda, and its intrinsic mandate to elevate key sectors such as infrastructure, education and healthcare and others, through its operational components of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace and Security, remains unwavering.
His intentional focus and determination in publicizing these efforts, complemented by his hands-on approach to always insist on balanced, accurate and favorable reporting, has introduced a noticeable progressive shift in the media’s coverage of Delta State governance and contributed to an enhanced public perception of the state government’s performance.
While this pleasant shift has no doubt bolstered support for the MORE Agenda by being instrumental in ensuring that the public is well-informed and supportive of the state’s developmental trajectory, it has equally helped to build stronger relationships and synergy between the government and key media stakeholders.
Dr. Osuoza’s strategic interventions in the media space, have earned him a solid media management niche in recognition of his admirable originality as a skilled communicator, deploying the critical and necessary tools to push the promotional narrative to his audiences with effective simplicity.
His ability to accommodate and utilize both traditional and modern media platforms to full advantage, has not only highlighted the visible and substantial progress being made under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, it has also ensured that the successes of the MORE Agenda are widely propagated and comprehended, and most importantly, helped reshape how Delta State is perceived both at home and in the Diaspora.
In its resolve towards dealing with Gender Based Violence (GBV) issues and in line with the 16 days activism to zero tolerance in GBV, the Delta State Government, through the State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force are set to proscute and arraign three rape offenders in the State.
Delta State
In a case referred on 18th November, 2024, at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Ughelli North Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, a 16 years old student of Otovwodo Grammar School Ughelli, named XXXX (Classified), living at Slaughter Road Ughelli, was allegedly raped by 3 boys on the 17th of November, 2024, at about 6:30pm in Otovwodo Grammar School Ughelli, when she was passing through the school premises on her way from an errand.
The victim was allegedly ambushed, tied up in a classroom and was subsequently raped by the 3 boys who took her in turns.
According to the SARC report of December 5, 2024, the veginal examination shows a “broken hyperemic hymen”.
Sexually assaulted girl, rape
The report, which as signed by the Social Welfare Officer, Ughelli North LGA, Ubiomo Davidson Efetomere, added that the boys (rapists) namely: Henry Godwin, Orovwoni Christian and James Power who are in their late teens and early twenties were apprehended and taken to Court and they were subsequently remanded custody at the Federal Correctional Centre, Okere Warri.
This newspaper also gathered that in a Police report dated 29th November, 2024, informing the Court of the probable cause to order the remand of the rapists in custody in Federal Correctional Centre, the Legal Officer (O/C Legal) of the Nigeria Police Force, Area Command Ughelli, stated that, “the trio are reasonably suspected to have committed the offence of Rape, punishable under Section 358 of the Criminal Code Cap C21. Vol. 1 Laws of Delta State of Nigeria 2006, within the jurisdiction of the Honourable Court.
Ughelli
In a phone call with Mrs. Kessiena Ufuoma Aroture, the Matron of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre Ughelli, she said the Centre has so far recorded conviction of four case relating to defilement of underaged girls in the Council Area and another pending one is coming up tomorrow at the Court.
She disclosed that on hearing of the defilement case. the Centre’s medical Team swung into action by attending to the girl medically and invited the police to investigate the case which was done and later got conviction to remand the rapists.
“We have done several cases like that but this is the latest of defilement case by the State Ministry of Women Affairs”. The Matron stated.
Spade Nigeria News (Online) also gathered that the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs lent a powerful voice to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, amplifying the call for collective action and solidarity in addressing the pressing global issue. The Ministry’s advocacy is a powerful reminder of the need to stand united in the fight against GBV. These campaigns have evolved to tackle cultural, systemic, and policy challenges, one message remains unequivocal: There is no excuse for violence against women and girls.
All efforts to get the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe to speak on the case did not yielded results as his phone calls from Spade Nigeria News Online were not answered. While he just responded “Pls remind me on monday” to Whatsapp messages sent to same phone number.
Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR, is a distinguished journalist, human rights activist, and community leader celebrated for his remarkable contributions to investigative journalism, public relations, and civic development. A former student activist at the University of Ibadan, he has made significant strides in public discourse, education, and fostering alumni engagement.
Abel Johngold Orheruata
Known for his deep commitment to community development, Abel’s passion for assisting others defines his work and personal mission.
Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR
His contributions to developmental journalism illuminate critical issues in civil society and the public sphere, championing democratic values and societal progress. Drawing inspiration from theorists like Jürgen Habermas, his research explores the power of rational discourse and collaboration in nurturing democracy and protecting human rights. Abel’s investigative journalism has been pivotal in uncovering corruption among Nigeria’s political leaders, reinforcing his reputation as a fearless advocate for accountability.
Abel Johngold Orheruata
As a seasoned public relations professional, Abel Johngold Orheruata is a registered member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and serves as Chairman of the Federal Information Chapel of NUJ Delta State Council. His dedication extends to civic education, where he actively delivers lectures on the National Orientation Agency’s (NOA) Core Values Charter to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Delta State, equipping them with the principles and skills to serve as patriotic citizens.
Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR
A proud alumnus of the University of Ibadan, Abel has held various leadership roles within the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), including serving as the longest-tenured Publicity/Social Secretary of the Asaba Chapter. Through his efforts, he has strengthened alumni networks and spearheaded initiatives that drive community development and personal empowerment.
Abel Johngold Orheruata
Abel is also a strong advocate for ethical media practices and enhanced communication strategies. He has organized workshops and partnered with organizations to promote media literacy, particularly within faith-based contexts, fostering understanding and unity across diverse groups.
In summary, Abel Johngold Orheruata exemplifies multidisciplinary leadership through his contributions to journalism, human rights advocacy, community engagement, and progressive communication. His unwavering dedication to societal advancement solidifies his role as a trailblazer in promoting democratic values and ethical leadership.
Abel Johngold Orheruata
He is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the NUJ, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Junior Chamber International (JAYCEE), and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS International), Pyrates Confraternity. Additionally, he serves as the Worldwide Publicity Secretary of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide.
Leo Tolstoy, the notable Russian writer and humanist understood the true meaning of change. So, he spent a considerable number of his active years on earth preaching about a better society and the need for people, especially those in high places, to be conscious of tiny changes that positively affect lives. Paul Adingwupu, an IT expert and a prominent politician in Delta State may not have the literary prowess, global popularity and influence of Tolstoy, but he is obviously on the same page with the remarkable Russian writer as far as changing the world for the better is concerned.
Presentation of Cheque to FELD Co-operative for disbursement of interest free micro-credit loans to beneficiaries in 2021
For nearly 20 years now, Adingwupu has been spending his time and resources building bridges, creating awareness among young people, empowering citizens across age and gender and upholding the dignity of labour as an essential part of life and living. But it is obvious that this politician from Delta State would not have done this much without the Foundation for Effective Leadership and Development, FELD, the engine room that drives his extraordinary compassion path and revolutionary change agenda.
In a soul-lifting feature story in elegant prose, authored by Godfrey Osakwe, Project Director of FELD to mark the 10th anniversary of this non-government organisation many years ago, he took a trip down memory lane and recalled how it all began. “Just like a drop with ripples in placid water, the Foundation for Effective Leadership and Development, FELD, an idea birthed 10 years ago continues to blossom in its trail of positive impact on the lives of people and communities in Nigeria. The foundation which was established in 2011 as a non-government organisation, primarily to pursue the vision of sustainable development based on good governance in all facets of life, has since its commencement of operations, continues to build human capital by strengthening communities with remarkable impact with exponential growth.” According to Osakwe, within the years under review, FELD has remained persistent in spreading its message of inclusion, hope and desire to better the lives of people regardless of the economic challenges of the day. This, in the Project Director’s view has been demonstrated through the organisation’s multifaceted approach to empowerment, educational advancement programmes and a unique inclusive scheme that brings everyone on board, irrespective of age, gender, faith or social status. So, the last 15 years or so, remain a glorious period for the Foundation for Effective Leadership, FELD, not only for its giant strides but also for altruistically touching lives, engraving its name in the consciousness of people and changing the narrative in a remarkable way in Delta State.
And for Adingwupu, a good family man who knows that social change stretches beyond what the society can offer the most vulnerable and next generation in terms of financial support or otherwise, he also appreciates the fact that the room for improvement is the biggest room. So, regularly, he goes out of his way to put a smile on faces of people as a way of bringing about the much-desired change he consciously seeks as a politician who vigorously works for the good of all.
However, it is important to add that this community leader and politician, even at the risk of sounding repetitive, actually believes in the family unit, and that is why he has taken it upon himself to strengthen and encourage struggling families especially in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency where he hails from. But outside his immediate constituency, some families can also attest to his courage and steadfastness with regard to lifting people in need. And as far as he is concerned, families that are weak and without the much-needed safety net need a helping hand; they deserve to be protected from their vulnerability. So, Adingwupu takes the extra trouble to cater for such categories of people by providing scholarship schemes, engendering economic empowerment, driving intellectual growth, giving access to good health care which he believes is a right, and providing other social services for the common good.
Nevertheless, one other good thing about Hon. Adingwupu and his philanthropic gesture is that he does not seek the klieg light in spite of all he does. As they say in television production, he is simply a behind the scenes man, a producer who just wants things done without taking the credit, and this has remained his guiding principles over the years. And it is easy to measure his success and acceptability especially from the perspective of the beneficiaries whose testimonies abound. “Hon. Adingwupu is not your everyday politician who celebrates and announces every kindness even when it is not necessary. And I am very proud of him for always sparing a thought for the poor and other people in most need of help. I am very sure that no government can sufficiently address the needs of its citizens but as they say, little drops of water make a mighty ocean. I am happy to announce that this uncommon politician’s drops of water in the lives of many people, regardless of political affiliation, are making a huge difference. That is the way to go especially with the challenges facing many people in Nigeria today,” a grateful beneficiary and one of his constituents revealed.
At a time like this, it is gratifying to also note that this unusual politician is determined to make many dreams come true. This is a daunting task, no doubt, but the activities of FELD should encourage other public-spirited individuals to do more with their time and resources.
No doubt, Hon. Adingwupu has set the bar high in terms of what individuals can do to touch society and change lives from their different parts of the world.
Some persons in Delta State are yet to come to terms on how Sheriff Oborevwori emerged as Governor of Delta State. While some others believe it is by divine orchestration, majority believe it was by deft political engineering.
DELTA FRESH VISION has noted that over the years, it had become customary that for someone to become Governor in Delta State he must have undergone executive tutelage as a Commissioner and SSG. At a point it was felt the college of SSG is a training ground for future governors of Delta State. Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa both passed through this route to become Governor.
It is somewhat a miracle that Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori was the first Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly to become the Governor of the State, against established political traditions.
Before him no one thought it was a possibility and there was no convention to contemplate its possibility. But it happened.
Beyond the facade, we must recall that Sheriff Oborevwori became Speaker as a first time legislator in the midst of several ranking Legislators on the 11th May, 2017. Although he was not the pioneer first time Legislator to become a Speaker; Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya owns that distinction, Sheriff Oborevwori was however, the first Speaker to transmute from one administration to another. He served two years in Dr. Okowa’s first term and also served as Speaker throughout Dr. Okowa’s second term, making him the longest serving Speaker in the history of Delta State.
In spite of the high turn over of Speakers in Delta State it was a rare feat for Oborevwori to have survived speakership for 6 years, in the midst of Legislators who were ever ready to “devour” any Speaker that does not carry them along. It speaks volumes of Oborevwori’s team spirit which he carried effortlessly to the Executive.
Upon resumption as Governor on the 29th of May, 2023, not a few Deltans thought that Sheriff Oborevwori was going to learn on the job. Some others did not give him a chance of high performance. Some who described Oborevwori with the epithet of “Street credibility” even did so as a euphemism for lack of Governorship experience.
18 months down the line, Governor Oborevwori has proved all skeptics wrong.
One early imprimatur of Oborevwori’s bold venture was his decision to engage the construction giant, Julius Berger to construct three bridges, Cloverleaf and road expansion projects in Warri/Effurun metropolis at an ambitious cost of N78Billion Naira. It was the first time any Governor of Delta State would use Julius Berger for construction job in the State. It signaled his administration’s resolve to admit only quality jobs as a testament of his ingenious M.O.R.E Agenda.
This singular decision flustered the APC and some of Oborevwori’s most vitriolic political opponents.
Some apologists even pooh poohed the Julius Berger projects, predicting that it would not see the light of day. Today, a visit to Warri and Effurun construction sites by Julius Berger would reveal a sprawling evidence of architectural wonder, far away from the staleness of the oil city to a glistering spectacle of beauty and resplendence.
Governor Oborevwori also made it clearly, in the early months of his administration that Delta State was not going to be an abode for shoddy jobs that does not conform with government’s specifications. He proclaimed a zero tolerance for cutting of corners, thereby setting the template for projects that would stand the test of time.
One other area that has confounded endemic skeptics and professional critics is Oborevwori’s resolve to run a government without borrowing. As ambitious as the 2025 State budget of N979 Billion there is no budget deficit, meaning that the budget will be financed from the Federation Accounts receipts as well as the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)
No wonder that Delta State under Governor Oborevwori’s watch, has been rated among top 10 State’s in the 2024 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index (G.A.T.I) by the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers (G.O.M.E.P), Nigeria.
Many Deltans do not know that Governor Oborevwori has taken it as a deliberate policy to save a percentage of all monies received from the Federation Account and IGR, which he plans to bequeath to his successor in years to come as a financial legacy.
We have a Governor who is not profligate in spending. His judicious use of State resources has become so palpable that even the blind can see it, the deaf can hear it and the lame can walk it.
Governor Oborevwori is prepared to put the State resources to judicious use for the development of Delta State and the upliftment of the living standards of Deltans and especially to take Delta youths and women off the streets through the establishment of empowerment schemes like D-CARES and MORE GRANT SCHEME and the WESAP.
As far as government business is concerned even the most inveterate cynic knows that it is not business as usual.
The plugging of areas of waste and leakages have become the hallmark of the Oborevwori administration.
The character of the Oborevwori administration can be gleaned by the decision of the Governor to do an infrastructure allocation of N2 Billion for each of the 25 Local Government Areas in the State in the 2025 State budget. This is a reflection of equity and fairness in the distribution of projects across the State.
Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda is not just a slogan; it is a testament to strategic planning, disciplined resource management and a deep commitment to the well being of every citizen. Through his prudent and people-centered leadership Oborevwori has defined what it means to manage State resources responsibly and transparently.
Deltans are now beginning to understand the meaning of the promise: “I am going to be a governor for all Deltans”.
The M.O.R.E agenda has taken roots just as the ship of State is on course, with its compass set in the right direction.
The opposition has been brought to its knees through good governance. By a policy of total inclusiveness, the Oborevwori administration has shown that the PDP umbrella is big enough to accommodate all Deltans one way or the other.
Flowing from the above, DELTA FRESH VISION enjoins every Deltan in Nigeria and in the Diaspora to join hands with the Delta State Government to move the State forward. Politics is over for now and Governor has so far offered an olive branch to the opposition to help steer the ship of State to safe shores. Delta State belongs to all of us and no one should pull it down in the name of Politics.
The M.O.R.E. Reality Group (MRG) wishes to commend Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the maturity and sagacity he displayed in clarifying his interaction with Senator Ned Nwoko over the Okpai Independent. Power Plant (IPP) matter that had gained some traction in the public space recently.
Oborevwori and Ned Nwoko
We indeed, applaud Governor Oborevwori’s uncommon show of wisdom and statesmanship in the face of innuendos and flacks shot and directed at him, following the imbroglio and the impressions created that he was told about Okpai IPP and that he refused to do anything about it, thus creating the impression that he does not want the development for the good people of Ndokwa Nation on the one hand, and the entire Anioma nation that constitute Delta North Senatorial District on the other hand.
But that opportunity to tell his side of the story came when the leaders of Ndokwa Neku Union, led by the distinguished Brigadier General Mike Ndubuisi (rtd), visited the Governor, thus making it possible for him to clarify the misty aspects of the claims by Senator Ned Nwoko that went viral.
Recall that sometime in September this year there was a trending viral video in which Senator Ned Nwoko declared that he met and requested the Delta State Governor to assist in the step down of 100 megawatts to be produced by the Okpai Power Plant, for the benefit of Delta North, but that the Governor refused. The occasion was the visit of the Senator representing Delta North to Brigadier General Mike Ndubuisi (Rtd) in his home town.
The video pitched the media Aides of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori against the media Aides of Senator Ned Nwoko in a raging media battle that dominated the public space for several months. To worsen the situation, Senator Nwoko reportedly told Deltans that he equally told Governor Oborevwori to intervene in the water distribution content of the Ogwashi Uku Dam project but that the Governor equally refused.
Another project which Senator Nwoko told Deltans he discussed with Governor Oborevwori but that the Governor also refused to assist, was the proposed coastal road project linking Asaba-Oko-Ase-Patani. Senator Ned Nwoko had told his supporters that Governor Oborevwori’s refusal to do the coastal road project prompted him to approach NDDC to include the coastal road in their 2025 budget.
These assertions by Senator Ned Nwoko created a prolonged impression that Governor Oborevwori did not like the Ndokwa Nation and was even neglecting the whole of Delta North in his developmental projects.
To set the records straight, it is on verifiable record that no fewer than 27 projects are currently going on and in different stages of construction across the three Local Government Areas of Ndokwa Nation.
It is also on record that the 2025 budget of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has allocated N2 billion for each Local Government on road infrastructure alone and has assured of enhanced development in the coming fiscal year 2025 with the budgetary provision of N50 billion for road infrastructure in the 25 Local Government Areas of the State.
There is also another N200 billion earmarked for road construction as provided for in the 2025 budget already passed by the State House of Assembly.
The appropriate opportunity for Governor Oborevwori to correct the erroneous impression of neglect of the Ndokwa Nation and Delta North Senatorial zone by extension, was thus presented, when the same Brigadier General Mike Ndubuisi (Rtd) led the Ndokwa NEKU Union to pay a courtesy visit to the Governor.
The Governor told the visiting team that he never held any discussion with Senator Ned Nwoko at any time concerning the Okpai IPP project nor any other project whatsoever. Governor Oborevwori revealed that the only thing Senator Ned Nwoko came to discuss with him was appointments for some of his constituents, which he granted.
Hear the Governor: “Sometimes as a Governor you will hear and see some things but choose not to respond. I saw a video that went viral where the Senator representing Anioma Nation, Senator Ned Nwoko, said he discussed the Okpai IPP with me. The only time that Ned came to see me was to solicit for appointment for his people which I granted. When I saw the video, I just smiled. Maybe he didn’t know that the video would go viral.”
The M.O.R.E Reality Group believes that the clarification of and assurances by Governor Oborevwori on the matter ought to have been sufficient to clarify the issue and reassure the people of Ndokwa Nation and indeed Delta North that the Governor means well for them, and for all Deltans, but then we were taken aback when our attention was drawn to a recent publication by the Directorate of Communication, Office of the Distinguished Senator Representing Delta North Senatorial Zone, titled: “Senator Nwoko reacts to Governor Oborevwori’s claims on Okpai IPP, appointments, Ogwashi Uku Dam, others”, in which they said Governor Oborevwori’s clarification that he never discussed the Okpai Power plant matter with Senator Ned Nwoko “are a perplexing distortion of events, and for what it’s worth demand corrections.”
According to the tedious, long-winding and sometimes convoluted and duplicitous write up: “Senator Nwoko has consistently engaged with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other senior party leaders, including: The Deputy Governor; Elder Moses Iduh, Engineer Dan Osai, former Party Chairman, and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The Senator has engaged the Governor on this project repeatedly, alongside other pressing developmental concerns critical to Delta North, including the Ogwashi-Uku dam, as well as the Asaba-Oko-Okpai-Aboh road. Despite repeated conversations with the Governor on these matters, no progress has been made, and no assurance was given.”
Apparently, what becomes glaringly obvious from the desperation of the publicists engaged and contracted into the self styled Directorate of Communication in the Office of Senator Ned Nwoko, is the crass ignorance they exhibited by claiming that “Senator Nwoko has consistently engaged with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other senior party leaders, including:
The Deputy Governor, Elder Moses Iduh, Engineer Dan Osai, former Party Chairman, and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.”
In their pedestrian logic to reduce a matter of such developmental magnitude to a ridiculous level of flippancy and political grandstanding, they forgot that Senator Ned Nwoko, in his typically ubiquitous spontaneity and sometimes staccato exuberance, couldn’t have “consistently engaged” all the afore mentioned top PDP stalwarts without splashing it all over the media and making heavy populist political capital out of such meetings.
If he could allow the brief meeting he had with the President General of Ndokwa Neku to be blown out of imaginable proportions in the media, one then wonders how “consistent engagements” with the leaders of PDP, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, could have happened or taken place so quietly that not even a squeak or whiff of such engagement was publicized by the usually loquacious Directorate of Communication at the time they took place.
Of course, the whole of Nigeria is very aware of the Senator’s engagement with the Minister of Power and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), as well as the meetings with oil and gas companies and conducting site visits, including his bill on the floor of the Senate on the State of Okpai Power plant step down controversy, and most importantly his crusading advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, all of which were and have continued to be lavishly and copiously given comprehensive publicity in the media and public space.
So, how did we then miss these his “consistent engagements” with the top PDP stakeholders and the leaders including the Delta State Governor in the media when they happened? Indeed, it is inconceivable that Senator Ned Nwoko, who does not do things quietly and always loves drama in all his engagements, would discuss with Governor Oborevwori or former Governor Okowa for that matter and it did not get media attention? It is quite unbelievable and simply exposes the extent to which the Senator’s media vuvuzelas would go to twist and manipulate a simple matter with negative propaganda for cheap political mileage.
And by the way, in what form, manner or procedure were those “consistent engagements” conducted? At least, one expects as it is standard practice, just like he did on the floor of the Senate, that a distinguished and responsible Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should exhibit more maturity, seriousness and decorum in addressing such developmental matters with his own State Governor and party leaders instead of the uncouth, off-handed, garrulous, spur-of-the-moment flippancy, with which he presented the matter before General Ndubuisi. And one even wonders how he has been “consistently engaging” the other leaders too.
It smacks of a disturbing and unacceptable lack of respect for the office of the Governor of the State, and speaks volumes of the poor and shabby exhibition of leadership that should be condemned outrightly and not encouraged.
We are nevertheless partially assuaged by the fact that the Senator’s media directorate was humble enough to admit that on their own volition that “It is encouraging that the Governor’s 2025 budget earmarks ₦200 billion for road infrastructure. We remain hopeful that these proposed projects will be accommodated within this allocation, as they are critical to the development of Delta.”
However, we take very strong exception to the claim by the Directorate that, “Regarding State appointments, from the outset of Governor Oborevwori’s administration, there has been a noticeable effort to undermine Senator Ned Nwoko’s position.” Indeed Senator Nwoko’s media team should be ashamed to make such a damning and diminishing claim of their principal in the public space as it not only de-markets the Senator’s reputation considerably, it also greatly undermines his political stature and exposes him quite recklessly as a weakling who neither has the clout nor capacity to influence critical decisions in his own political constituency.
We want to believe that this is a faux pas committed quite unintentionally by the media directorate in their overarching desperation to evoke empathy and rehash the victimhood narrative of his endured marginalization in his own political party and within his own Senatorial zone. This is not only unfortunate and laughable, but also most importantly, reveals the fact that there must be a maverick way and manner the Senator is going about whatever he is doing that is not going down well with the collective interest and objective of his fellow party leaders and faithful.
Interestingly, while it is acceptable to suggest that Senator Nwoko contributed to the electoral successes of the Party in his Senatorial zone, it is also germane to strongly remind his directorate of communication that the party and indeed some of the leaders they have chosen to vilify, were greatly instrumental in both the choice and emergence of Prince Ned Nwoko as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is a well established mantra in political circles that “Party is Supreme” and the interest of the party should always be put in consideration first before individual interest. Senator Ned Nwoko himself is a big beneficiary of the party’s decisions.
Finally, the MORE Reality Group (MRG) is quite happy and satisfied with the maturity and political brinkmanship Governor Sheriff Oborevwori exhibited, by opting to use the platform of the visit of the high powered Ndokwa Neku Union delegation led by the well respected Brigadier General Mike Ndubuisi (rtd), not only to clear the air on his interaction as Governor of Delta State, with Senator Ned Nwoko on the Okpai Independent Power plant matter, but also to assure Ndokwa nation that the MORE Agenda will deliver development to Deltans including Ndokwa nation.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori himself aptly captured the magnitude of the meeting thus: “Today, I had an excellent audience with the leadership of the Ndokwa Neku Union, led by the President-General, Brigadier-General Mike Ndubisi (rtd), during a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba. We discussed critical road infrastructure, education, empowerment, job opportunities for our youths, the progress we have made so far, and our future plans.
“As a government committed to inclusiveness, I assured the delegation that the Ndokwa nation is not and would not be neglected by our administration.”
The Delta State Governor has spoken. The MORE Agenda is fully on course.
