Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori will on Tuesday depart for Germany on an official working visit aimed at strengthening the state’s partnership with construction giant Julius Berger, according to the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu.

Aniagwu, who disclosed this at a press briefing in Asaba, said the Governor would be accompanied by himself and the Technical Assistant to the Governor.

Flanked by the Chief Press Secretary ( CPS) to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, and the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Projects and Policies, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, Aniagwu explained that the visit was strictly a working mission designed to deepen technical collaboration and secure more favourable project terms for Delta State.

“The purpose of this visit is to strengthen our ongoing partnership with Julius Berger. His Excellency is known for his negotiation skills, and this trip will help us secure better deals and concessions that will benefit the state,” Aniagwu added.

He emphasized that the visit was not for leisure, but rather part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance project delivery and cost efficiency.

Recalling the state’s previous engagement with China, Aniagwu noted that it led to the award of major contracts, including the ₦59 billion Agbor flyover and the ₦39 billion Otovwodo Junction, Ughelli flyover on the Warri–Patani Expressway.

The Commissioner also announced that the forthcoming 2026 budget, estimated at ₦1.5 trillion, would prioritize capital projects, social welfare, and infrastructure expansion.

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He said: “Following the approval of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, ministries are fine-tuning their submissions before presentation to the State Executive Council”.

Aniagwu added that the Governor had directed that all upcoming empowerment programmes, scheduled to begin next month, must be transparent and inclusive across all 25 local government areas.

He said key ministries and agencies would coordinate the initiative to create sustainable livelihoods and boost productivity.

According to him, the state would, in the coming weeks, perform several groundbreaking ceremonies for new projects worth billions of naira, including the Otovwodo Junction Flyover, underscoring the government’s determination to sustain momentum in infrastructure development.

He assured that Governor Oborevwori’s administration would not allow political timelines to slow governance, insisting that contractors had been instructed to maintain steady progress on all ongoing projects.

Tension heightened in Abuja  as security forces arrested Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore, as reported by Legit.

The demonstration, which was meant to be peaceful, quickly descended into chaos as gunshots rang out and people fled in panic.

According Legit, the police attacked peaceful demonstrators demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Sowore, who confirmed the arrests in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said:
“The @PoliceNG team deployed to brutalise #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters arrested Nnamdi Kanu’s brother and his lawyer, @AloyEjimakor, alongside innocent bystanders. They were beaten and taken to the FCT Command. The police must release them immediately!”

Protest disrupted with teargas and live bullets

Eyewitnesses reported that police operatives used live ammunition and teargas to disperse protesters around the Maitama and Central Business District areas.

Commuters were caught in the crossfire, with traffic grinding to a halt as major roads were blocked. Several videos shared online showed demonstrators running for safety as security operatives fired sporadically into the air, Daily Trust reported.

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Court order bars protests near key government buildings
Ahead of the protest, police authorities had warned that certain areas within Abuja were “no-protest zones,” citing a Federal High Court order.

Force spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the order prohibited rallies around sensitive government locations, including Aso Rock, the National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

“The Nigeria Police Force reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law. All groups, whether for or against Kanu’s continued detention, must comply with the subsisting court order,” Hundeyin stated.

Meanwhile, Sowore, a popular Nigerian human rights activist, who organized the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, was captured in a viral video running for his life when security operatives allegedly fired shots and tear gas to disperse the protesters.

Stakeholders antagonizing the protest have been mocking the activist for taking cover during the shooting.

But Shehu Sani, in a Facebook post, said it was a wise decision, stressing that it was not an act of cowardice.

He wrote, “Running away during protest is not an act of cowardice. It’s a strategy to dodge the bullet or the tear gas in order to fight another day.

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“Facing an armed Police man on the 20th day of the month after his last salary requires some form of caution. Comrade Sowore is bravely wise.”

New information has come to light regarding the recent visit of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, a prominent Niger Delta activist and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, to former President Goodluck Jonathan at his residence in Otuoke, in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on Friday.

The discussions centered decisively on the 2027 presidential election, where Jonathan is expected to challenge President Bola Tinubu robustly.

He was accompanied by the 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Joshua Maciver, and the the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services, High Chief Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, among others.

Jonathan told newsmen that he invited Tompolo over because of complaints by some people and to also discuss the sustenance of the peace in the Niger Delta region.

He said: “Since I left office, we have not seen. Tompolo is one young man that played key role in the unity of our people, but today’s visit, you know he is been handling this security issue in the Niger Delta and I remember as Vice president, I visited his camp to bring peace to the Niger Delta, and there are issues that people are complaining about, so I decided to call him so that we can have conversations along those lines. So that people will be carried along to make sure that the Niger Delta continues to be peaceful. That is why he came to see me.

“So I appreciate his visit, because he is somebody we appreciate. He has contributed significantly to the peace in the Niger Delta and the security of the oil installations.”

Tompolo has been indirectly involved in the forthcoming presidential election, which Jonathan is speculated to be considering.

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An ally of Jonathan while in office, Tompolo is now seen to be aligning with President Bola Tinubu.

Recently, he was seen in a viral video encouraging Nigerians to vote for Tinubu in 2027.

Earlier in June, Comrade Sunday Adekanbi, the Protem National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement, had announced Tompolo as the group’s grand patron, saying they aim to gather 10 million votes for Tinubu in 2027.

Recently, Tompolo was seen in a viral video encouraging Nigerians to vote for President Bola Tinubu during the 2027 elections, because, according to him, the president has done well.

In June, Comrade Sunday Adekanbi, the Protem National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement, had announced Tompolo as the group’s grand patron, saying they aim to gather 10 million votes for Tinubu in 2027.

Despite Jonathan’s disclosure of the discussion with Tompolo and the reason for their meeting, there are unconfirmed reports that he came to persuade Jonathan against contesting in 2027.

A source, who wished to remain anonymous, disclosed that a prominent Niger Delta activist recently spoke with the former president about the upcoming 2027 election.

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During their conversation, the activist encouraged him not to heed the calls from those urging him to challenge President Tinubu in the election. Instead, he advised Jonathan to avoid running and to focus on being a respected elder statesman both within Nigeria and beyond.

…Says No More Hiding Place For Criminals

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, formally launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous state through public-private partnership in security management.

The event, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, brought together captains of industries, security chiefs, community leaders, and top government officials, including the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the occasion; Zenith Bank Founder and Chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who served as Special Guest of Honour; and the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo who served as Chief Launcher with a donation of N10 billion.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori said the Security Trust Fund established by law in 2013 was designed as a collaborative platform for mobilizing resources from the private sector to complement government’s investment in security.

He explained that the fund would focus on acquiring modern surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, and communication tools, as well as supporting the training and retraining of security personnel and community vigilante groups across the 25 local government areas of the state.

He said: “Security is not the sole responsibility of government, it is everyone’s business. Without adequate security, development cannot thrive, businesses cannot operate freely, and investors will be reluctant to commit their resources. This Trust Fund represents our shared commitment to peace, public safety, and sustainable growth.”

Governor Oborevwori said his administration rebranded Operation Delta Hawk as Operation Delta Sweep and as a joint task force involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps.

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While noting that the synergy among these agencies had yielded significant results, including the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition from criminal elements, he outlined the government’s broader strategy for tackling the root causes of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness through empowerment programmes, agricultural initiatives, and massive infrastructure renewal that have created thousands of jobs.

“Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth,” he said.

The Governor said 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund, and appealed for sustained support from the private sector and individuals.

“Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” he said, assuring that all funds would be transparently managed.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, described the launch as a defining moment in the state’s history and commended Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, which he said had transformed Delta into one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and progressive states. “Our Governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress,” he noted. “While others talk, he just gets it done,” he added.

Aig-Imoukhuede announced a personal donation of ₦100 million to the Fund on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, and expressed optimism that the initiative would mobilize up to ₦100 billion in 2025.

“This launch does not end today, it begins today. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth,” he declared.

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In his goodwill message, Mr. Jim Ovia commended the governor’s foresight and described the Security Trust Fund as a bold and forward-looking initiative.

He reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s partnership with the state and pledged continued support for its developmental efforts. “Security is the foundation of peace, prosperity, and business growth. This Fund brings together stakeholders to build a safer and more stable environment for citizens and investors alike,” Ovia said.

Also speaking, Chief Keston Pondi, who spoke on behalf of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, lauded the governor for institutionalizing a framework that enables coordinated private-sector participation in tackling security challenges.

He said: “What we are launching today goes beyond a financial contribution, it is a strategic investment in peace, progress, and the protection of lives and property,” pledging Tantita’s full support for the initiative with a princely donation of N10 billion.

In his keynote address, a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, emphasized that development and security were inseparable and must go hand in hand.

He commended the ongoing transformation of road networks in Delta State, describing it as a major contributor to safety and connectivity. Akpoyibo called for increased investment in technology, training, and collaboration among security stakeholders, stressing that true security could only be achieved through shared responsibility.

Earlier, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr Samuel Osasa, said the launch was aimed at reinvigorating the fund to meet emerging security needs.

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He disclosed that the Trust Fund had, over the years, provided vehicles, equipment, and support to security agencies, including the recent installation of modern facilities for the State Police Command to enhance implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.

He appealed to corporate organizations, private institutions, and individuals to partner with the State Security Trust Fund through generous donations, assuring that all contributions would be judiciously utilized in accordance with the law.

The event featured goodwill messages, pledges of financial support from public and private entities, and renewed calls for collaboration toward ensuring lasting peace and security across Delta State.

…Says Project Symbolises Renewed Hope Partnership

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday, performed the groundbreaking for the reconstruction of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Dual Carriageway in Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas, declaring the project a symbol of renewed collaboration between the Federal and State Governments for the benefit of Nigerians.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori said the project represented “another major step forward in the infrastructure renewal drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Delta State Government.”

He described the Warri–Sapele–Benin Road as a critical national infrastructure connecting major cities across the South-South and providing access to Edo and other parts of the federation.

“The section we are flagging off “covers a dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement, expanded shoulders, and extensive stormwater drainage systems, all designed to provide durability and ensure the safety of road users.”

Governor Oborevwori noted that the initiative underscored the gains of synergy between the two tiers of government, emphasizing that development becomes faster when governments work together in the interest of the people.

“Although this road is a federal route, the users are Deltans and Nigerians, and their safety and comfort are what matter most to us,” he said.

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The governor further disclosed that the Delta State Government had paid ₦10 billion in compensation to facilitate the ongoing construction of the Second Niger Bridge access road project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity between Asaba, Onitsha, and adjoining communities.

He lamented the hardship long suffered by commuters and transporters on the Warri–Sapele–Benin route due to its deplorable condition, noting that the reconstruction would enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and spur economic growth.

He said: “Beyond these economic benefits, the project will also strengthen security. Criminals often exploit bad roads to commit crimes. Once completed, this highway will make movement safer and improve the response of security agencies.”

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Delta one of the safest states in Nigeria through strategic investments in infrastructure, peace, and security.

He also promised that the requests of the people of Uvwie Kingdom partaining the Mother and Child Hospital and provision of 500KVA transformer, would be looked into.

“At over sixty years of age, I am not here for personal gain but to leave lasting legacies that generations will remember me for. By the time I leave office, I want Deltans to proudly say, ‘Oborevwori did this, Oborevwori did that,’” he said before officially flagging off the project from Effurun Roundabout by spare parts market to after Ohore, before Ometan Bridge.

Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, said the project is the brainchild of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori whom he described as a visionary leader determined to transform Delta’s infrastructure landscape.

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“This 10km project stretches five kilometres on each side and features an 8.8-metre-wide carriageway on both lanes, far beyond the standard 7.3 metres,” Izeze said, praising the governor’s foresight and commitment.

He said the project would be completed within 12 months, adding that the state would celebrate another landmark achievement that would enhance trade, transportation, and community life.

General Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Engr. Thomas Feng, thanked Governor Oborevwori for the confidence reposed in the firm, promising to deliver the project in record time and to the highest standards.

“Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a renewed era of infrastructure that will promote safer travel, stronger connectivity, and lasting economic growth for the people of Delta State,” Feng said.

Earlier, Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Chief Anthony Ofoni, flanked by his Okpe Local Government Council counterpart, commended the governor for his people-centred leadership and announced that the Airport Road in Effurun would be named as “Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori Way” in recognition of his vision and enduring legacy.

Also speaking, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom and Chairman of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, lauded the governor’s administration for prioritizing key infrastructure projects in Uvwie and across the state.

He noted that ongoing works such as the three flyovers and road expansions in Effurun and Warri had transformed the urban landscape and accelerated economic activities.

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Representative of the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Okakuro Mike Afe, joined in commending the governor for his developmental strides, praying for his successful completion of an eight-year tenure to consolidate the gains of the MORE Agenda.

The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and captains of industries, all of whom hailed the project as a beacon of renewed hope for the people of Delta and beyond.

The Founder and President of Atiba University Oyo, James Adesokan Ojebode, PhD, ALA(CSN) JP has expressed deep concern over reports that some Federal universities have allegedly refused to accept the recently released National Examinations Council (NECO) results from admission seekers.

In a statement issued in Oyo, Ojebode described the development as “unjust, discriminatory, and inconsistent with Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive and equitable education.” He lamented that many candidates who initially applied with Awaiting Results were later denied admission after NECO released their results — a situation he termed “a denial of the fundamental right to education and a reflection of administrative insensitivity.”

Ojebode therefore called on the Federal Ministry of Education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and NECO to urgently intervene and ensure that all affected universities reopen their admission portals to allow candidates upload their results. He noted that “education must remain a tool for empowerment, not exclusion.”

He further emphasized that proper coordination among examination and admission bodies is crucial to maintaining the credibility of NECO, the integrity of Nigeria’s admission process, and the public’s confidence in the education system.

Atiba University Oyo
7th October, 2025.