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Eshor Storms Asaba, Pledges to Rescue Delta Economy with Jobs, Accountability and Blue Economy

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ASABA, Delta State — The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in Delta State, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has declared that he is determined to win the 2027 governorship election and redirect the state’s resources towards job creation, economic diversification and accountable governance.

Eshor made the declaration in Asaba on Thursday while interacting with community newspaper publishers and journalists during his ongoing consultations with stakeholders across the state ahead of the 2027 election.

The AAC candidate said his ambition was not merely to occupy the Government House but to build an economy capable of creating sustainable opportunities for Deltans, particularly young people.

According to him, Delta State is endowed with enormous financial, natural and maritime resources which, if properly managed, could significantly transform the state’s economy.

Eshor Questions Spending Priorities

Eshor criticised what he described as the present administration’s emphasis on flyover projects, arguing that greater attention should be given to employment generation, rural roads, human capital development and economic ventures capable of creating wealth.

He cited what he described as approximately N4.19 trillion received by the state between 2023 and 2026 and questioned whether the level of development in the state reflects the volume of resources available to government.

He also questioned the reported expenditure of about N177 billion on five flyovers, arguing that government spending should be accompanied by greater transparency and measurable economic benefits.

“What we need is accountability of all the funds that have been coming to this state so that we can be able to know that, at least, we should be able to give a pass mark,” Eshor said.

He maintained that Deltans deserve to know how public resources are being utilised and what measurable benefits government projects are delivering to communities.

Maritime Economy as Major Economic Opportunity

Drawing from his background in the maritime sector, Eshor identified Delta’s waterways, coastline and maritime assets as major opportunities that could help diversify the state’s economy.

The governorship hopeful said the state should make better use of its maritime potential, including its ports and waterfronts, to attract investment and create employment.

“I was a sailor and I’m still a sailor,” Eshor said, stressing that his experience in the maritime sector had given him an understanding of the opportunities available in the state’s blue economy.

He also said Delta should explore commercially viable ventures beyond conventional government projects as part of efforts to expand its revenue base and create employment.

Jobs and Skills for Young Deltans

The AAC candidate also placed job creation at the centre of his campaign message, particularly through technical and maritime-related training.

He said his administration would develop programmes aimed at equipping young people with practical skills, including engineering and other technical areas linked to the maritime industry.

Eshor argued that training should be connected to real economic opportunities capable of helping young people become productive and financially independent.

“The People Are the Structure”

On the political structure required to challenge the major parties in the 2027 election, Eshor said AAC would rely primarily on the people rather than political structures alone.

“The people are the structure,” he declared, insisting that the 2027 election should be about the interests and welfare of Deltans rather than merely the strength of political parties.

He expressed confidence that AAC could defeat the established political parties, citing the recent political developments in Osun State as an example of what he described as the power of voters to change governments through the ballot.

Asked whether he was coming to take over Delta State in 2027, Eshor responded emphatically: “101 per cent, we are coming to take over.”

Appeals to Deltans

Eshor urged Deltans to critically assess the competing political choices ahead of the 2027 election, arguing that the state requires leadership capable of managing its resources effectively and converting them into economic opportunities.

He said his campaign would focus on accountability, job creation, economic diversification, youth development and the utilisation of Delta’s natural and maritime resources.

The AAC candidate also said his ongoing consultations would provide an avenue to engage communities, youths, professionals, traditional leaders and other stakeholders on his vision for the state.

As the 2027 governorship contest gradually gathers momentum, Eshor’s campaign is positioning economic transformation, accountability and job creation as central themes of his challenge to the incumbent administration.

AAC Governorship Candidate Isaac Eshor Sponsors Over 50 Fibroid Surgeries, Expands Humanitarian Outreach in Delta

As economic pressures continue to make access to quality healthcare difficult for many families, the humanitarian activities of Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Delta State, have continued to attract attention across the state.

Through his humanitarian platform, the Focus Foundation, Eshor has supported vulnerable residents through healthcare interventions, educational assistance, empowerment initiatives and other forms of social support.

One of the foundation’s notable interventions is the sponsorship of more than 50 fibroid surgeries for women from different communities across Delta State.

The surgeries, according to the foundation, were funded through Eshor’s personal resources and targeted women who had struggled with fibroid-related health challenges but lacked the financial capacity to access the required medical treatment.

Beneficiaries of the programme have described the intervention as life-changing, saying the medical support provided not only relief from years of health challenges but also restored their confidence and hope.

Several families who were unable to afford the cost of surgery have also expressed appreciation for the assistance, describing it as timely support during difficult periods.

Associates of the Focus Foundation said the initiative reflects Eshor’s belief that leadership should be measured by its impact on people’s lives and its ability to provide practical solutions to societal challenges.

According to them, the foundation’s programmes are focused on bridging gaps in healthcare, education, youth empowerment and social welfare, particularly among vulnerable members of society.

Beyond the fibroid surgery programme, Eshor has continued to support individuals and communities through various humanitarian and empowerment initiatives.

His supporters and beneficiaries say the interventions cut across political, ethnic and religious lines, describing the AAC candidate’s approach as one centred on service to humanity.

Community leaders and beneficiaries have commended the initiative, noting that humanitarian interventions can make a significant difference in the lives of people who are often unable to meet the rising cost of essential services, particularly healthcare.

Observers of Delta State’s political landscape have also pointed to Eshor’s humanitarian activities as part of his public profile ahead of future political engagements.

For beneficiaries of the fibroid surgery programme and others who have received assistance through the Focus Foundation, the interventions represent more than financial support—they provide relief, dignity and renewed hope.

As political activities continue to develop in Delta State, Eshor’s humanitarian record is likely to remain part of the conversation around his leadership philosophy and people-centred development agenda.

 

 

Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM Hits Airwaves as Oborevwori Commissions First Radio Station Owned by an Asaba Indigene

ASABA, DELTA STATE — A new chapter opened in the media history of Asaba on Saturday, August 15, 2026, as Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, commissioned Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM, a new broadcasting station owned by renowned legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Tony Idigbe.

The commissioning, held in Asaba, Oshimili South Local Government Area, attracted traditional rulers, government officials, media executives, professionals, business leaders, friends and associates of the Idigbe family.

Representing Governor Oborevwori at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Michael Osuoza, formally commissioned the station and described the investment as a significant contribution to Delta State’s media and socio-economic development.

Osuoza noted that radio remains an important medium for information dissemination, public enlightenment and civic engagement. He urged the management and staff of Big Heart Radio to uphold professionalism, accuracy and responsible journalism in their operations.

He stressed that although the media has a responsibility to hold public institutions accountable, criticism should be constructive and focused on promoting good governance and societal development.

The commissioner also commended Idigbe for demonstrating confidence in Delta State’s investment climate and choosing to establish a venture capable of empowering citizens through information, education and entertainment.

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, described the establishment of Big Heart Radio as a landmark achievement for Asaba Kingdom.

The monarch said that, to the best of his knowledge, the project represented the first major radio broadcasting station established by an Asaba indigene in the state capital.

He described the investment as being in line with his vision of repositioning Asaba and encouraging indigenes to contribute to the development of their homeland through strategic investments.

“Today represents a new dawn for Asaba. This project demonstrates what can be achieved when our people invest in their homeland. It is not just a radio station; it is a platform that will help tell our stories, promote our culture and strengthen our identity,” the Asagba stated.

He expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for their support towards the realization of the project.

Chairman of the occasion, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, described the commissioning as a welcome development that would strengthen grassroots communication and encourage greater public participation in governance and community affairs.

Obaigbena emphasized that radio remains one of the most accessible forms of mass communication, particularly for reaching communities and ordinary citizens.

Speaking on the vision behind the station, Chief Tony Idigbe, SAN, said the commissioning marked the fulfilment of a long-standing dream to establish a platform dedicated to educating, informing and entertaining the public.

He explained that Big Heart Radio was conceived to bridge communication gaps, promote meaningful conversations, encourage citizen participation and create opportunities for people to connect and exchange ideas.

Idigbe commended Governor Oborevwori for creating an enabling environment for investment in Delta State and praised the Asagba of Asaba for his leadership and commitment to the development of the state capital.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Prince Nduka Obaigbena, family members and friends towards the realization of the project.

The station’s owner paid particular tribute to his family for making part of their ancestral land available for the project, describing the gesture as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice and commitment to community development.

The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Charles Obuebu, also commended the initiative.

Obuebu noted that broadcasting had evolved beyond conventional transmission to incorporate digital and online platforms. He encouraged the management of Big Heart Radio to use the station to promote culture, entrepreneurship, education and national development through quality programming.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Richard Agu, a longtime friend and former university colleague of Idigbe, described the station as an innovative venture that reflected the entrepreneur’s determination and commitment to excellence.

Agu recalled Idigbe’s leadership qualities and focus dating back to their university days, expressing confidence that Big Heart Radio would establish itself as a leading voice in the region.

For Dr. Mrs. Lizzy Idigbe, wife of Tony Idigbe, SAN, and President of the Association of Ibusa Professional Women (AIPROW), the commissioning was the outcome of vision, dedication, perseverance and a desire to give back to society.

Speaking with Newsbreeze Magazine, Mrs. Idigbe said access to information remained a powerful instrument for empowerment and development. She added that the station would serve as a bridge between communities and opportunities.

Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM is designed to combine conventional radio broadcasting with digital and social media technologies, allowing it to reach a wider audience while promoting interactive programming and stronger listener engagement.

The management said the integration of traditional and digital broadcasting would enable the station to expand its reach and keep listeners connected across multiple platforms.

The high point of the ceremony was the station’s maiden live broadcast conducted by Prince Nduka Obaigbena, officially signalling the commencement of broadcasting activities.

With its launch, Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM is positioned to contribute to the growth of Delta State’s media industry while promoting cultural heritage, grassroots development, information dissemination, entertainment and public discourse.

The commissioning therefore marked more than the launch of a new radio station. It celebrated the vision, sacrifice and investment of the Idigbe family and demonstrated the impact that strategic private investment can have on community development and the future of Asaba.

Adeleke Beats Oyebamiji by 66,252 Votes to Win Second Term as Osun Governor

Governor Ademola Adeleke has been re-elected Governor of Osun State after defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, by a margin of 66,252 votes in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke of the Accord Party the winner on Sunday, August 16, after the completion of the collation of results from the 30 local government areas of the state.

According to the final results announced by the electoral commission, Adeleke polled 511,067 votes, while Oyebamiji secured 444,815 votes.

The result means Adeleke defeated his closest challenger by 66,252 votes to secure another four-year term as governor of Osun State.

Adeleke also recorded victories in 19 of the 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji won 11 LGAs. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Najeem Salaam, finished third with 17,180 votes.

The election, which attracted strong political competition across the state, saw Adeleke maintain a significant statewide lead over the APC candidate despite Oyebamiji’s victories in several local government areas.

Following INEC’s declaration, supporters of the governor took to the streets in parts of Osun State to celebrate the victory, while political leaders and prominent Nigerians congratulated Adeleke on his re-election.

In his reaction after the declaration, Adeleke described the victory as a triumph for democracy and thanked the people of Osun State for supporting his administration.

With his re-election secured, attention will now shift to Adeleke’s second-term agenda and his administration’s plans for infrastructure, economic development, governance and other sectors across the state.

The governor has said his second-term administration will focus on transforming Osun from a predominantly civil-service-based economy into a more industrialised state.

Source: Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as reported by multiple Nigerian news outlets.

 

Ebu Community Renews Call for Reconstruction of Strategic Ebu–Ukala–Ezi Road

Residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have renewed their appeal to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to prioritize the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ukala–Ezi Road, describing it as the community’s most critical infrastructure need and the major gateway connecting Ebu to neighbouring communities and economic centres.

The call comes amid renewed optimism following the recent visit of a Delta State Government delegation to the community, a development many residents view as a positive indication that Ebu is gradually returning to the state’s development agenda after years of perceived neglect.

Speaking during the visit, the traditional ruler of Ebu,HRH Onu Paul Opili Odilile expressed appreciation to the state government for ongoing efforts on the palace road but stressed that the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ukala–Ezi Road remains the community’s highest priority.

According to the monarch, while the award of palace road project is commendable, the rehabilitation of the state road is vital to the economic growth, accessibility and overall well-being of the people.

We appreciate the attention being given to our palace road, but the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ukala–Ezi Road is of utmost importance to our people. It is the main access route to our community and its condition continues to affect our daily lives, the monarch said.

Residents say the deplorable state of the road has, for decades, hindered commercial activities, increased transportation costs and made access to healthcare, education and other essential services difficult.

Community leaders noted that farmers and traders are among the worst affected, as transporting agricultural produce to markets has become increasingly challenging due to the poor condition of the road.

Many residents believe that reconstructing the Ebu- Ukala – Ezi road would not only improve transportation and economic activities but also stimulate development, attract investment and enhance the quality of life for the people of Ebu and surrounding communities.

The community therefore urged Governor Oborevwori to give urgent attention to the project, describing it as a long-overdue intervention that would demonstrate the government’s commitment to equitable and inclusive development across Delta State.

As calls for action continue to grow, the people of Ebu remain hopeful that their persistent advocacy will yield positive results and that the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ukala–Ezi Road will soon become a reality.

For the residents, the road is more than just a transportation route—it is a lifeline whose rehabilitation could unlock new opportunities and usher in a new era of growth and development for the community.

The Light Diabetes Organisation Holds Free Medical Outreach in Igbuzo

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Hundreds of residents of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have benefited from a free medical outreach organized by the Light Diabetes Organisation as part of efforts to promote healthy living and tackle the growing burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.

The outreach, held on August 11, 2026, featured a comprehensive health awareness programme designed to educate participants on preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyles, and effective management of chronic health conditions.

Medical experts and healthcare professionals were on hand to provide vital health information, counselling, and guidance to members of the public.

As part of the exercise, beneficiaries received free diabetes screening, blood pressure checks, medical consultations, and personalized health advice from qualified healthcare practitioners.

The initiative attracted a large turnout of residents who seized the opportunity to know their health status and receive professional medical attention at no cost.

Speaking with Newsbreeze, the Co-Founder of the organisation, Princess (Mrs.) Tonia Nkem Akindele (née Eluemelu), said the annual outreach forms part of the organisation’s commitment to giving back to society and improving public health awareness.

According to her, the Light Diabetes Organisation remains dedicated to creating awareness about diabetes and related health conditions while providing support for vulnerable members of society.

Princess Akindele, who is based in the United Kingdom, expressed delight over the success of the programme, describing it as the fulfillment of a long-held vision to make quality healthcare more accessible to communities. She noted that she and her husband, Prince James Oludare Akindele, who is also a Co-Founder of the organisation, are driven by a passion for touching lives and bringing hope to people through impactful healthcare interventions.

She stressed that the increasing prevalence of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases underscores the need for continuous public education, early detection, and regular health checks.

“Awareness and early diagnosis remain critical in the fight against diabetes and other chronic illnesses. Our goal is to help people understand the importance of preventive healthcare and empower them to make healthier lifestyle choices, she said.

Many participants expressed gratitude to the organisers, describing the outreach as timely, impactful, and potentially life-saving.

They commended the Light Diabetes Organisation for bringing essential healthcare services closer to the people and urged the group to sustain the initiative.

The successful outreach further reinforced the organisation’s mission of promoting healthier communities and improving the quality of life of individuals through education, early detection, and access to basic healthcare services.

For many residents, the programme was more than a medical outreach—it was a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of community-driven initiatives in advancing public health and wellness.

Angry Youths Chase Alleged Vote Buyers, Seize Bags of Cash in Osun

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Tension reportedly erupted at some polling units in Ejigbo, Osun State, on Saturday as angry youths allegedly confronted suspected vote buyers and seized bags containing large quantities of naira notes.

The incident occurred during the ongoing Osun State governorship election, amid growing allegations of vote-buying and voter inducement across parts of the state.

According to a report by Daily Trust, the youths reportedly chased away individuals suspected of attempting to influence voters with cash and took possession of bags containing wads of naira notes.

The development comes against the backdrop of widespread reports of alleged vote-buying during the election, with voters and observers reporting cash inducements at different locations across the state.

Earlier reports by major Nigerian media outlets indicated that political agents were allegedly offering between ₦10,000 and ₦20,000 to some voters in various local government areas.

In Ikire, for instance, reports indicated that agents linked to the APC and Accord Party were allegedly involved in cash inducement, while similar allegations have emerged from Ilesa, Iwo, Ila, Ile-Ife and other areas.

The alleged confrontation in Ejigbo highlights the growing tension surrounding vote-buying during the election, with citizens and election observers raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

The identities of the alleged vote buyers involved in the Ejigbo incident, as well as the exact amount of money contained in the seized bags, were not immediately established from the available reports.

Guide Express will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more verified information emerges.

Osun Election: Hoodlums Attack Journalists as Voting Is Disrupted at ADC Candidate’s Polling Unit

Journalists covering the ongoing Osun State governorship election were reportedly attacked by hoodlums following a violent disruption at the polling unit of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Najeem Salaam, in Ejigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The incident occurred on Saturday, August 15, shortly after Salaam and his wife cast their ballots at his polling unit in Ward 4, Ejigbo.

According to reports, suspected hoodlums invaded the area, causing panic among voters, electoral officials, observers and journalists covering the election.

The development disrupted voting as voters and election officials reportedly fled the polling unit amid concerns for their safety.

Salaam was subsequently whisked away from the scene by his security operatives as the situation became tense.

Journalists who arrived at the location to cover the incident were also reportedly attacked. Some vehicles belonging to journalists were said to have been damaged during the confrontation.

The Nation also reported that the disruption forced INEC officials, observers and journalists to leave the polling unit, while voting was halted following the security breach.

Security personnel, including officers from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were reported to have arrived at the scene in an attempt to restore order.

However, voting remained disrupted at the time of the reports, with some voters waiting for information on whether the exercise would resume.

The identities of the suspected attackers and the motive behind the incident had not been independently established as of the time of filing this report.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of voters, electoral officials, journalists and other stakeholders participating in the Osun governorship election.

The Osun election is being contested by several candidates, including incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji and ADC candidate Najeem Salaam.

Guide Express will continue to monitor developments from Osun State as voting, counting and collation of results progress.

Osun Election: Adeleke Campaign Urges INEC to Fix Reported BVAS Failures

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The Imole Campaign Council of Osun State Governor and Accord Party governorship candidate, Ademola Adeleke, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently address reported malfunctions of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during Saturday’s governorship election.

The campaign council raised the concern as voters across the state continued to cast their ballots in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, the council said it had received multiple complaints of BVAS devices malfunctioning or operating slowly at several polling units.

According to the council, the situation was particularly concerning for elderly voters, with some allegedly unable to complete facial authentication after waiting for extended periods.

The campaign council specifically cited Governor Adeleke’s polling unit, Unit 009, Ward 02, Agbogunde Sagba, in Ede North Local Government Area, alleging that the BVAS machines were either malfunctioning or operating slowly.

It said the reported delays had left some voters waiting in queues for hours.

The council further stated that the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) Situation Room had reported BVAS failures in parts of Egbedore, Ife Central, Ilesa West, Ifedayo, Ifelodun, Oriade and Ilesa East Local Government Areas.

The campaign council urged INEC to deploy technical personnel and replacement equipment where necessary to ensure that eligible voters affected by the reported technical difficulties are not denied the opportunity to vote.

“The Imole Campaign Council calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission to immediately rectify these anomalies before voting ends,” the council said, warning that failure to resolve the issues could lead to voter disenfranchisement.

The development comes as voting and counting activities continue at various locations across Osun State. Reports from the field indicate that while voting has ended and sorting and counting have commenced at some polling units, accreditation and voting activities have experienced challenges in some areas.

The BVAS complaints remain allegations raised by the campaign council, and INEC’s official position on the specific complaints should be followed as the electoral process progresses.

The Osun governorship election features 15 candidates, with incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Najeem Salaam among the major contenders.

Umueze Community Turns 2026 Ulo Festival Into Colourful Carnival in Igbuzo

IGBUZO, Delta State — The usually vibrant town of Igbuzo, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, came alive with music, dance, traditional costumes and cultural displays as the Umueze Community celebrated its 2026 Ulo Festival in grand style.

The annual celebration, which attracted indigenes, residents, visitors and members of the Igbuzo diaspora, transformed the Umueze Quarter into a colourful carnival of culture, heritage and communal fellowship.

Umueze, regarded as the largest quarter in Igbuzo, marked this year’s festival with a strong display of its rich cultural heritage, with activities centred around Ashia Nta, where the statue of Nne-Eze stands as a reminder of the traditional and monarchical heritage of the community.

The festival featured the beating of traditional drums, the sound of ogene and agogo gongs, cultural songs, dances and colourful masquerade and warrior-inspired displays.

Young men appeared in traditional costumes inspired by warriors and spirits, while women and families dressed in their finest traditional attires to participate in the festivities.

Under the leadership of the Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Okonkwo, the Ulo Festival has continued to attract attention as one of the community’s major annual cultural celebrations.

Beyond entertainment, the festival provided an opportunity for families and community members to reconnect, celebrate their heritage and reflect on the history and traditions handed down by their ancestors.

Preparations for the celebration began weeks ahead, with families cleaning their homes, making provisions for guests and preparing traditional meals and drinks. The atmosphere became increasingly festive as relatives returned home from different parts of Nigeria and abroad.

Members of the Igbuzo diaspora, including those based in Lagos, London and the United States, were among those who returned to the community for the celebration.

The festival also provided an avenue for reconciliation, forgiveness and communal healing, with participants reflecting on the sacrifices of previous generations and the need to preserve peace and unity within the community.

A major attraction of the 2026 celebration was the contribution of a newly formed cultural committee, which introduced artistic and creative displays that added colour and variety to the festival.

Among the illustrious sons and daughters of Igbuzo who graced the occasion were Pastor Idowu Okeze and his wife; Chief Anthony Uwajeh, the Odua of Ibusa; High Chief Celestine Okafor, Ikwele Igbuzo; Chief Daddy Okeleke, Mgboko Igbuzo; Chief Ifeanyi Onwordi; Ogbu Nedu Eze Udo Igbuzo; Eze Inotu Henry Nnamdi; Chief Zikky Nwabuwa; Hon. Onyeisi Okeze; and Austin Ndinwa (Okemili), among other dignitaries.

Speaking during the celebration, Pastor Idowu Okeze expressed appreciation to the Umueze Quarter and the Odogwu of Igbuzo for their leadership and efforts toward promoting peace and development in the community.

“Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Okonkwo, is a traditionalist with a difference. His arrival has fostered growth and development, bringing peace, unity and love to our community,” he said.

Pastor Okeze also called for greater government support for the promotion of Igbuzo’s cultural heritage, noting that investment in culture could help unlock the community’s tourism potential and create opportunities for sustainable development.

He described the Ulo Festival as a celebration of joy, forgiveness and communal harmony capable of preserving the cultural identity of Igbuzo for future generations.

According to Diopka Onowu Charles Ndinwa, who spoke to Newsbreeze, the origin of the festival is traced to Umueze-Ibusa warriors who returned from Oko with the concept, which subsequently became intertwined with the community’s mythology and historical narratives.

As the celebration progressed, participants moved from house to house, exchanging greetings, congratulations and goodwill, while traditional songs and dance steps filled the streets.

The agogo, a small gong, alongside traditional drums and other local musical instruments, provided the rhythm for the cultural performances.

The Ulo Festival also featured a carnival procession anchored by Comrade Vincent Ollimah and others,

Pastor Idowu Okeze and his lovely wife
Pastor Idowu Okeze and his lovely wife

adding another layer of excitement to the celebration.

For the people of Umueze and Igbuzo, the festival represents more than an annual gathering. It is an expression of identity, history, unity and belonging.

With its combination of traditional music, dance, costumes, communal visits, cultural displays and the return of indigenes from home and abroad, the 2026 Ulo Festival once again demonstrated the enduring cultural spirit of Igbuzo.

The celebration also reinforced the call for greater recognition and investment in the town’s cultural heritage as a potential driver of tourism, community development and cultural preservation in Delta State.