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.

Delta State has been ranked as the second-best governed state in Nigeria under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, according to the 2025 Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) Governance Performance Index (CGPI).

The latest governance ranking placed Delta State second nationwide with a score of 70 per cent, closely following Kaduna State, which topped the index with 73 per cent.

The ranking highlights the growing recognition of Governor Oborevwori’s administration for its performance in governance, infrastructure development, public service delivery and overall management of state affairs.

The CIAPS Governance Performance Index assessed the performance of governors across Nigeria’s 36 states, measuring governance outcomes and the effectiveness of public administration.

Governor Oborevwori’s second-place ranking places Delta ahead of 34 out of the 36 states in Nigeria, including Anambra, Niger, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Oyo, Enugu and Borno, which completed the top ten positions.

According to the report, Kaduna State, under Governor Uba Sani, emerged first with 73 per cent, while Delta State followed closely with 70 per cent.

Anambra State, led by Governor Charles Soludo, ranked third with 65.5 per cent, while Niger State under Governor Mohammed Umar Bago placed fourth with 65.1 per cent.

Ekiti State, governed by Biodun Oyebanji, came fifth with 64.5 per cent, while Akwa Ibom and Lagos States, led by Governors Umo Eno and Babajide Sanwo-Olu respectively, each scored 64 per cent to occupy the sixth and seventh positions.

Oyo State under Governor Seyi Makinde secured eighth place with 61 per cent, followed by Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah with 56.5 per cent. Borno State, led by Governor Babagana Zulum, completed the top ten with 54 per cent.

In the middle-tier category, Kwara, Abia, Ondo, Nasarawa, Osun, Ogun, Kano, Kogi, Edo and Jigawa occupied positions 11 to 20.

The report also identified the lowest-performing states, with Taraba State ranking last among the 36 states with a governance score of 20 per cent. Yobe, Benue, Rivers, Plateau and Kebbi were also among the bottom performers.

The strong showing by Delta State is expected to reinforce growing public confidence in the Oborevwori administration’s MORE Agenda, which has driven extensive investments in roads, bridges, healthcare, education and other critical sectors across the state.

The ranking further reflects the impact of ongoing development projects and governance reforms being implemented by the administration, positioning Delta among the leading states in Nigeria in terms of governance performance and service delivery.

The Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies noted that the Governance Performance Index serves as a benchmark for evaluating the effectiveness of state governments and promoting accountability, transparency and sustainable development across the federation.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, on the occasion of his 67th birth anniversary.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Saturday, Governor Oborevwori described Orubebe as a distinguished statesman, accomplished public servant, and respected leader whose contributions to the development of the Niger Delta region and Delta State remain remarkable.

The governor commended the former minister for his years of dedicated service to the nation, particularly during his tenure as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, where he played a significant role in advancing infrastructure and development initiatives across the oil-rich region.

Oborevwori said the celebrant’s wealth of experience and wise counsel continue to serve as valuable assets to the state and the nation at large.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate Elder Godsday Orubebe on the occasion of his 67th birth anniversary.

“He is a distinguished son of Delta State whose contributions to the growth and development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria remain noteworthy. His dedication to public service and the welfare of the people has left enduring legacies.

“As he celebrates this milestone, I pray that God grants him continued good health, strength, wisdom, and many more years of fruitful service to humanity,” the governor stated.

Governor Oborevwori wished the former minister a joyous celebration and continued fulfilment in all his endeavours.