Today marks another solemn remembrance of the late Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Joseph Chike Edozien, a renowned academia and revered traditional ruler whose legacy continues to inspire many. Recall that late Prof. Chike Edozien, who was the 13th Asagba of Asaba,  passed  away on February 7,  2024.

The remembrance was commemorated today the 6th day of February 2026 by the people of Umuezei at Ezenei Junction, Asaba, and  was graced by prominent dignitaries led by the present Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge SAN, OON. Their presence underscored the significant impact Prof. Edozien had on both regional and national levels.

Speaking at the occasion, the present Asagba acknowledged that the leadership of his predecessor was marked by unparalleled wisdom and dedication to his people, adding the during his reign, he was a beacon of inspiration, guiding his community through various challenges and fostering unity among his people. His contributions extended beyond traditional leadership, influencing socio-cultural and political spheres across Nigeria.

In remembrance of Prof. Edozien, the Asaba community and in particular the good people of Umuezei gathered in ceremony and celebration of the legendary life of the late Asagba, and has initiated several projects, including a tree-planting campaign aimed at combating climate change which the late Asagba advocated. This initiative indeed reflects the late Asagba’s commitment to environmental sustainability and his vision for a better future for his people.

The remembrance also served as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of Asaba, particularly in light of past events such as the 1967 Asaba massacre. The community continues to honor the victims of this tragedy, reinforcing the importance of justice and recognition for those who suffered.

As the community reflects on the life and legacy of Prof. Chike Edozien, his memory remains a guiding light for Asaba and beyond. His contributions to leadership, culture, and environmental sustainability continue to resonate, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.

The Executive and members of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have felicitated with a notable personality in Niger-Delta, Engr Kestin Pondi, as he. marks another birthday anniversary and  for his professionalism, vision, and dedication which he consistently brings to national service and development,. adding that his leadership continues to inspire confidence and make a meaningful difference.
The Group acknowledges Pondi’s widely recognised stewardship at Tantita Security Services Limited, where his unwavering commitment to safeguarding critical national assets has played a significant role in improving security and stability in the Niger Delta.

The statement dated 2nd February 2026 reads in part.: “Through innovation, discipline, and strategic collaboration, you have set a commendable benchmark for private sector participation in national security.”

The statement further adds: “Beyond your professional achievements, we admire your humility and your deep commitment to community development and youth empowerment. Your people-centred approach to leadership reinforces our shared belief in inclusive growth, partnership, and collective responsibility as enduring pathways to peace and progress.”

“As media professionals, we particularly commend you for your support for constructive engagement and transparent communication. Your openness to dialogue has strengthened trust among security institutions, host communities, and the media, reflecting your clear appreciation of the media’s vital role in nation-building.”

The noble Pen Group led by Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli, FCIISM, MNIPR, ceased the opportunity to wish Engr Pondi sound health, sustained success on the auspicious occasion of his birthday anniversary, and even greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

By Wilbet Ijeoma

Adonishaka community in Ebedei, located within the Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, has erupted in protest against Platform Petroleum Limited after prolonged impasse over staff welfare between the oil host community and the oil company. The protest, which broke out in the early hours of today 4th February 2026 was sparked by the recent dismissal of one Mr. Evans Ossai, a driver from the host community , alongside grievances concerning staff welfare and poor working conditions.

The community’s dissatisfaction with Platform Petroleum has been simmering for some time. Previously, the Adonishaka community had expressed concerns over marginalization by oil companies operating on their land, highlighting issues such as environmental degradation and inadequate social benefits. The dismissal of Evans Ossai appears to have been the tipping point, galvanizing the community into action.

The protestors comprising community chiefs, women and youths, are demanding the reinstatement of Evans Ossai, whose dismissal they believe was unjust. Ossai’s role within the company was seen as vital, and his termination has been perceived as a direct affront to the community’s interests. Sources had that Evans alongside a few other staff embarked on a peaceful protest over poor remuneration and staff welfare which led to their dismissal.

The oil and gas chairman of the host community, Eseh Ifeanyi, who also spoke on behalf of the protestors, raised pertinent concerns about sack of some staff who are members of the community on no justifiable ground, the welfare of employees working for Platform Petroleum, and argued that the company has failed to provide adequate support and benefits to its workers, leading to dissatisfaction and unrest among the staff.

Protestors who resisted intimidation from combined forces of soldiers and Police, have highlighted the substandard working conditions faced by employees, by roving casket and displaying placards with compelling inscriptions to ventilate their grievances. These conditions are said to include poor remuneration and working condition, inadequate safety measures, insufficient equipment, and a lack of basic amenities, which have collectively contributed to a decline in morale and productivity.

The protestors, comprising representatives from various segments of the community, including chiefs, women, youths, and rights activists, have articulated several demands. They are calling for:

– The unconditional reinstatement of Evans Ossai.
– Immediate improvements in staff welfare, including better healthcare and financial benefits.
– Enhanced working conditions to ensure safety and comfort for all employees.

Platform Petroleum has previously stated its commitment to empowering communities through social impact initiatives and engaging with local populations to address their needs, but  as at thus press time, no official statement was made by the management of Platform on the sack of Mr. Evans Ossai.

The protest by the Adonishaka community underscores the ongoing tensions between local communities and oil companies in Delta State. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Platform Petroleum will respond to the community’s demands and whether a resolution can be reached that satisfies all parties involved. The protest serves as a reminder of the critical need for oil companies to engage meaningfully and constructively with host communities, ensuring that their operations contribute positively to local development and welfare.

The family of Azu of Elume Main Town, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, with deep sorrow but total submission to the will of God, announces the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Evangelist Mrs. Elizabeth Azu Ovwile.

Evangelist Mrs. Elizabeth Azu Ovwile, aged 71, hailed from Elume Main Town in Sapele LGA of Delta State. She was a devoted Christian, a woman of faith, and a pillar of strength to her family and community. Until her passing, she was an active and committed member of God’s Grace Ministry, where she served God faithfully and touched lives through prayer, counsel, and service.

She is survived by her children, among whom are Mr. Austin Azu, Correspondent of News Central, Government House, Asaba/Delta State, a member of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, and also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Delta State Chapter; Honourable Samuel Azu, Leader of the Sapele Legislative Arm; Rev. God’s Time Azu of God’s Grace Ministry; Akpuvie Azu; Happy Azu Omofuju; Victor Azu; Vera Aghogi; and Justice Azu. She was also a cherished grandmother whose legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren.

Mama Elizabeth will be remembered for her unwavering faith in God, love for family, humility, and commitment to service. Though deeply mourned, her life remains a testimony of grace and godliness.

1. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
   May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Amen

Electricity meters will henceforth be provided and installed free of charge as the federal government has directed electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and meter installers to henceforth provide smart meters for consumers at no cost, warning DISCOs who may wish to shortchange Nigerians to desist or face prosecution.

The federal government, speaking recently through the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, revealed that meters have been procured under the World Bank–funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP), to improve billing and collections across the power sector. He therefore described any attempt to charge consumers for both the provision and installation of these meters as acts of illegality that are unacceptable.

With support from the World Bank-funded DISREP, the federal government aims to import a total of 3.4 million meters. Already, about one million of these have been delivered.

Full metering of consumers will enhance transparency in billings, boost consumers’ preparedness to pay and improve liquidity in the sector which will ultimately improve service delivery to the consumers.

The Councilor representing the good people of Ezhionum DSIEC Ward 19 in Ukwuani Local Government Area, Hon. Chukwuemeke Victor, has been suspended indefinitely by the Ukwuani Legislative House over breach of House Rules by dragging the Ukwuani LGA Chairman and the Treasurer of the Council to court over the alleged failure to disclose the council’s financial records as required by law without first exploring the internal mechanism of the House.

This is the second time the Honourable Councilor is seeing suspension by the Legislative House on similar account bordering on breach of House Rules, and this time with a more severe sanctions, with no salaries and any emoluments associated with his office.

The suspension was due to his failure to bring the issue to the house before approaching the court, which reportedly contravenes their rules. Notably, Victor had been suspended previously for allegedly breaking the same house rule, and the suspension was lifted before this latest suspension.

Sources from the LGA have reacted to the development, dismissing Councillor Victor’s query for financial records as baseless and unnecessary, following his securing an order of mandamus from a Delta State high court to effect same.

According to the sources, the financial records Victor seeks are already in the public domain, and he knows where to access the documents or information. The sources alleged that Victor’s decision to go to court was premature and solely ill-intended to drag the name of Ukwuani LGA’s in the mud.

There are also concerns that the Honourable Councilor representing Ezhionum Ward might have lost confidence in the Internal mechanism of the Legislative House after his previous impasse with the House that led to his previous suspension, which must have informed his decision to approach the court without first exhausting internal mechanisms, such as bringing the matter before the house for deliberation.