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SSA on Community Newspapers, ACNPN Chairman Lead Condolence Visit to Dr. Hillary Ibegbulem Over Father-in-Law’s Demise

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SSA on Community Newspapers, ACNPN Chairman Lead Condolence Visit to Dr. Hillary Ibegbulem Over Father-in-Law’s Demise

A delegation comprising the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Delta State Governor on Community Newspapers, Prince Oromonokpaye, the State Chairman of the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, and other community newspaper publishers has paid a condolence visit to Dr. Hillary Ibegbulem, popularly known as “The Lion,” following the passing of his father-in-law.

The condolence visit, which took place at Dr. Ibegbulem’s inlaw residence at Agbor , was aimed at identifying with him and his family during this period of grief and mourning.

Speaking during the visit, Prince Oromonokpaye conveyed the heartfelt condolences of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s media family and the community newspaper sector in Delta State.

He described the loss of a loved one as a difficult experience and urged the bereaved family to take solace in the impactful life lived by the deceased.

According to him, while death is inevitable, the memories and legacies left behind by departed loved ones continue to provide comfort and inspiration to family members and associates.

Also speaking, ACNPN Delta State Chairman, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, expressed deep sympathy to Dr. Ibegbulem and his family.

He noted that the community newspaper publishers in the state share in their sorrow and prayed for God to grant the family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Abiagom described Dr. Ibegbulem as a respected personality whose contributions to society and commitment to community development have earned him admiration across Delta State, stressing that the publishers deemed it necessary to stand with him during the difficult moment.

Other members of the delegation also offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the deceased and encouraged the family to remain united and steadfast in faith.

Responding, Dr. Hillary Ibegbulem expressed appreciation to Prince Oromonokpaye, Comrade Abiagom, and the entire delegation for the thoughtful visit.

He said their presence and words of encouragement had provided comfort to the family and demonstrated the spirit of solidarity that exists among colleagues and friends.

He thanked the visitors for sharing in the family’s grief and prayed for God’s blessings upon them.

The visit concluded with prayers for the deceased and members of the bereaved family.

Popular Asaba Content Creator ‘Odogwu of Asaba’ Arrested Over Alleged Rape, Death of 20-Year-Old Woman

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Popular Asaba Content Creator ‘Odogwu of Asaba’ Arrested Over Alleged Rape, Death of 20-Year-Old Woman

ASABA, Delta State — The Delta State Police Command has arrested popular Asaba-based content creator and social media personality, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, widely known as “Odogwu of Asaba,” over allegations of rape involving a 20-year-old woman who later died.

The arrest followed a petition submitted to the Delta State Police Command, alleging that the deceased travelled to Asaba on June 1, 2026, after she was allegedly invited by Ogbonna, who reportedly promised to train her in content creation through a programme advertised on his social media platforms.

According to the police, the young woman was allegedly lodged in a hotel by the suspect, where she was reportedly raped and physically assaulted.

Investigators said she later returned home in a distressed condition and narrated the incident to her parents.

The Command further disclosed that before her death, the woman recorded a video in which she allegedly recounted her ordeal, the emotional trauma she suffered following the incident, and the impact it had on her mental health.

Police said she subsequently consumed a toxic substance in an apparent suicide attempt and later died despite efforts to save her.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, PSC, ACIPM, mnips, immediately ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

According to Edafe:
“Upon receipt of the petition, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, PSC, ACIPM, mnips, directed the Area Command Effurun to carry out an immediate and thorough investigation into the allegations.

Acting on the directive, operatives of the Command swiftly commenced an investigation, leading to the arrest of Ifeanyi Ogbonna, also known as ‘Odogwu of Asaba’.

“During the preliminary investigation, the suspect reportedly made useful statements to the Police, while further investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case”.

The Police spokesperson added that the Commissioner of Police has assured the deceased’s family and the general public that the investigation would be transparent, thorough and impartial, stressing that no aspect of the allegations would be overlooked.

About the Suspect

Ifeanyi Ogbonna, popularly known as “Odogwu of Asaba,” is a well-known content creator, actor and social media influencer based in Asaba, Delta State.

He gained popularity through comedy skits, lifestyle content and collaborations with other digital creators.

He is also known for organising content creation initiatives aimed at mentoring aspiring creators and building online entertainment brands.

His arrest has generated widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians calling for a diligent investigation and justice for all parties involved.

The Delta State Police Command urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information while investigations continue.

The Command reiterated that the suspect remains in police custody and that the outcome of the investigation will determine the next legal steps.

As of the time of filing this report, no court has found the suspect guilty of any offence, and police say investigations are ongoing.

Relief as Abducted Oyo Students, Principal Regain Freedom After Days in Captivity

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Relief as Abducted Oyo Students, Principal Regain Freedom After Days in Captivity

IBADAN – There was widespread relief and celebration in Oyo State following the release of the students and principal who were abducted by gunmen in a recent attack that sparked concern among parents, residents, and education stakeholders.

The victims, who were held captive for several days, regained their freedom after efforts by security agencies and other relevant stakeholders.

Their release has brought an end to the anxiety that gripped families, school authorities, and members of the public since news of the abduction broke.

While details surrounding the circumstances of their release remain limited, authorities confirmed that the victims have been reunited with their families and are receiving the necessary medical attention and psychological support after the traumatic experience.

The abduction had drawn widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians calling for stronger security measures to protect schools and students from criminal attacks.

The incident once again highlighted growing concerns over the safety of educational institutions across the country.

The Oyo State Government commended the efforts of security personnel and all those who played a role in securing the victims’ freedom, while reaffirming its commitment to strengthening security around schools.

Parents and residents have also expressed gratitude over the safe return of the students and principal, urging the government to intensify efforts to prevent future incidents and ensure that schools remain safe environments for learning.

Security agencies have assured the public that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction.

Delta Govt to Transform Public Libraries into World-Class Digital Knowledge Hubs

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Delta Govt to Transform Public Libraries into World-Class Digital Knowledge Hubs

ASABA – The Delta State Government has unveiled plans to modernise its public libraries and transform them into world-class knowledge and digital learning hubs equipped to meet the demands of 21st-century education, research and innovation.

The Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, disclosed this during an inspection of the Delta State Library headquarters and its branch along the Grand Hotel axis in Asaba.

According to him, the inspection was aimed at assessing existing infrastructure, identifying operational challenges and developing a framework for comprehensive upgrades across public libraries in the state.

Prof. Tonukari explained that the exercise marks the beginning of a statewide inspection and monitoring programme designed to reposition public libraries as modern centres for learning, research and innovation, with improved facilities and expanded access to digital resources.

He directed the library management to establish partnerships with private organisations, philanthropists and other stakeholders to attract book donations and enrich library collections.

The commissioner also instructed that important Delta State Government publications and official gazettes be properly preserved and archived to support public access and future research.

He assured the management of government support through improved internet connectivity, enhanced data services and critical structural upgrades to improve service delivery and the overall user experience.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Mrs. Felicia Rone-Orugboh, urged library personnel to demonstrate greater commitment, initiative and professionalism in carrying out their duties.

She stressed the need for staff to take proactive steps in addressing challenges instead of waiting for government directives.

Asaba Reaffirms Ban on Sale of Ogbono Seed in Indigenous Markets

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Asaba Reaffirms Ban on Sale of Ogbono Seed in Indigenous Markets

ASABA – The traditional authorities of Asaba Kingdom have reaffirmed the long-standing prohibition on the sale of ogbono seed, locally known as Okoru Enu, in all indigenous markets across the kingdom.

The directive was restated by the Omu of Asaba, Obi Chief Dr. Ada Biosah, alongside the Ndi Eze Ahaba, who explained that the restriction is grounded in the kingdom’s longstanding customs and spiritual traditions, which have been preserved for generations.

According to the traditional leaders, the renewed enforcement became necessary following reports that ogbono seed was being openly sold in some indigenous markets despite the existing prohibition.

To ensure compliance, the palace said sensitization campaigns would be conducted through market leaders and community unions, while a task force would be established to monitor adherence to the directive.

The Omu clarified that the restriction does not prohibit residents or visitors from consuming ogbono. Rather, it specifically forbids its sale within Asaba’s indigenous markets.

Those who wish to consume ogbono are free to purchase it outside the kingdom and prepare it privately. The traditional institution urged traders, residents and visitors to respect the customs and cultural heritage of Asaba Kingdom, stressing that the preservation of longstanding traditions remains a collective responsibility.

ASABA : Ezenei Residents Lament Prolonged Blackout, Demand Urgent Action from BEDC

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ASABA : Ezenei Residents Lament Prolonged Blackout, Demand Urgent Action from BEDC

ASABA – Residents of the COBO-1 Transformer area in Ezenei, Asaba, have raised concerns over the continued power outage in their community, calling on the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and the Delta State Government to urgently restore electricity supply to the area.

The residents alleged that they have been without electricity for nearly two months following the collapse of power infrastructure caused by a recent rainstorm accompanied by strong winds that damaged several electricity poles within the community.

According to community members, the damaged poles were promptly reported to the BEDC office in Ezenei with the expectation of a swift response. However, they expressed disappointment that despite repeated complaints and follow-up visits, electricity has yet to be restored.

Residents further disclosed that although replacement poles have since been erected, BEDC officials are yet to reconnect the transmission wires needed to restore power to homes and businesses served by the COBO-1 Transformer.

They questioned the delay, asking how much longer it would take the electricity distribution company to complete the reconnection process and return the community to the national grid.

Some residents also alleged that officials of the company had advised the community to purchase replacement electric poles to facilitate repairs, a request they rejected on the grounds that maintaining and replacing damaged infrastructure falls within the responsibilities of the distribution company.

The community recalled a similar experience about two years ago when the transformer developed a major fault, leaving residents in darkness for almost a year. According to them, the prolonged outage was eventually resolved only after residents contributed funds to repair the transformer themselves following what they described as delays in intervention by the electricity provider.
They further alleged that after the repairs were completed, certain unauthorized demands were made before reconnection could be carried out, a situation they said was eventually addressed through the intervention of a BEDC Regional Manager.

Expressing frustration over what they described as a recurring pattern of neglect, residents said the current blackout has severely affected businesses, households, and economic activities within the area.

We have endured months of hardship due to the lack of electricity. Small businesses are suffering, families are struggling, and daily life has become increasingly difficult. We appeal to BEDC and the Delta State Government to intervene and ensure that power is restored without further delay, a resident said.
The affected residents have therefore appealed to the management of BEDC, particularly the Regional Manager, as well as the Delta State Government, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the delay and ensure the immediate restoration of electricity to the COBO-1 Transformer area.

They stressed that reliable electricity remains critical to economic development, security, and the overall well-being of residents, urging authorities to treat the matter as a priority.

OBOREVWORI’S ENDORSEMENT OF TINUBU FOR 2027 SPARKS REACTIONS AMONG DELSU STUDENTS

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OBOREVWORI’S ENDORSEMENT OF TINUBU FOR 2027 SPARKS REACTIONS AMONG DELSU STUDENTS

By Ighorue Deborah Ufuoma

ABRAKA, Delta State — Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general election has generated discussions among students of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, with many expressing differing opinions on the political development.

Governor Oborevwori publicly declared his support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid during an interaction with journalists in Asaba.

The governor said continuity in the Federal Government’s policies would further strengthen development efforts in Delta State, noting that increased federal allocations had enhanced the state’s ability to execute infrastructure projects and meet other development obligations.

The endorsement has since attracted reactions from political stakeholders and interest groups across Delta State, with analysts describing it as one of the early political developments likely to shape alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

At DELSU, however, students who spoke with this reporter said their primary concern is not political endorsements but the impact government policies will have on education, infrastructure and employment opportunities.

A Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive, who requested anonymity, said students would judge the endorsement by its impact on the university community.

“We hear about political alignments every election season, but what matters to students is improved hostel facilities, stable electricity, conducive lecture halls and a better learning environment.
If the partnership between the state and federal governments brings more investment to education, then students will benefit,” the student said.

Also speaking, President Sheikh, a 200-level student of the Department of Mass Communication and Film, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, expressed optimism that stronger cooperation between the state and Federal Government could translate into more opportunities for young people.

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated commitment to development in Delta State.

If that relationship with the Federal Government continues, students could benefit through improved infrastructure, scholarship opportunities and programmes that promote youth employment,” he said.

Another student, Ajiroghene Precious, also of the Department of Mass Communication and Film, urged students to assess political endorsements based on the outcomes they produce.

“Political endorsements are part of the democratic process. What is important is whether they result in policies that improve education, reduce the cost of schooling and create employment opportunities for graduates. Ultimately, citizens will judge leaders by their performance,” Precious said.

Some other students who spoke to this reporter said they would prefer to see greater attention given to issues affecting higher education, including hostel accommodation, research funding, campus security and graduate employment, regardless of political affiliations.

Political observers say issues such as economic reforms, infrastructure development, education, youth empowerment and job creation are expected to feature prominently in campaigns ahead of the 2027 general election, with students and young voters likely to play a significant role.

As discussions continue across the DELSU campus, many students say they will closely monitor how government policies and budgetary allocations affect the education sector in the coming months.

The views expressed by the students interviewed represent their personal opinions and do not reflect the official position of Delta State University.

Olejeme Unveils Plan to Mobilise 2.5 Million Igbo Women for Tinubu, Oborevwori Ahead of 2027

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Olejeme Unveils Plan to Mobilise 2.5 Million Igbo Women for Tinubu, Oborevwori Ahead of 2027

By Guide Express News

ASABA, DELTA STATE – The National Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers (TTB), Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, has intensified grassroots mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections, unveiling plans to mobilise more than 2.5 million Igbo women across the South-East and South-South regions in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

Dr. Olejeme made the announcement on Saturday in Asaba during a major women’s political summit attended by thousands of participants from the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones.

The summit focused on voter mobilisation, women’s political participation, leadership development and strategies for strengthening grassroots support for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Olejeme commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, APC National Women Leader, Dr. Mary Alile-Idele, and Delta State First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for their commitment to promoting women’s participation in governance and national development.

She urged women across Delta State and beyond to support President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, stating that continuity in leadership would consolidate ongoing reforms and accelerate development.

“Today, Igbo women are standing up for Tinubu. We are standing up for Oborevwori,” she declared.

According to Olejeme, the Tinubu Torch Bearers have embarked on a renewed grassroots campaign aimed at carrying the message of hope, inclusion and political participation to women across communities.

She announced that the organisation would deploy one million trained women mobilisers across 95 local government areas in the South-East and South-South.

“Our mission is to take this message to markets, churches, campuses and communities. Our message is simple: Tinubu represent positive reforms, while Oborevwori represents meaningful development,” she said.
She maintained that sustained support for the APC would promote infrastructure development, economic growth, women’s empowerment, youth opportunities and improved democratic dividends.

A major highlight of the summit was the endorsement of President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, former Delta State Governor and senatorial hopeful Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and Barrister Bridget Anyafulu for elective positions in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the event, the South-South Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers, Dr. Genevieve Mordi, said the organisation was entering a more structured phase of grassroots mobilisation.

She noted that women remain the largest voting bloc and possess the capacity to influence electoral outcomes when properly mobilised.

“We are organising ward by ward, market by market, campus by campus and polling unit by polling unit. More than two million women will speak with one voice in support of Tinubu and Oborevwori,” she said.

The Delta State Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers, Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude, Ph.D., urged members to remain united and committed to ensuring electoral success for APC candidates.

Other speakers, including the Vice Chairman of Oshimi 6th South Local Government Area, Hon. Nkechi Amaregbu, and Mrs. Chinwe Okolo, encouraged eligible Nigerians to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Former PDP State Women Leader, Hon. Kawulia Omoko, Duchess Nerissa Olisa-Ifeajika, Mrs. Ifeoma Onuorah, and Mrs. Edith Umeh also stressed the importance of active voter participation while commending initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and empowerment of women.

The APC State Treasurer, Ogbueshi Ayaka Oniawa, expressed confidence that the party’s policies and programmes would continue to deliver positive outcomes for Nigerians.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Olejeme called for unity and sustained commitment among members of the movement.

“Let no one divide us and let no one use us. APC is the party that works. When Delta works, Igbo businesses prosper. When Nigeria works, our children succeed. Igbo women are awake, organised and ready,” she said.

Political observers described the summit as a significant milestone in Dr. Ngozi Olejeme’s expanding grassroots mobilisation drive among Igbo women and Nigerian women in general, noting that the initiative could play a key role in strengthening women’s political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.

A former Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and former Board Chairman of Trustfund Pensions Plc, Dr. Olejeme is widely recognised for her contributions to public service, women empowerment and grassroots political mobilisation.

The summit concluded with renewed calls for unity, voter education, increased political participation and sustained democratic engagement as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

2027: Growing Calls for Engr. Isaac Eshor to Join Delta Governorship Race

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2027: Growing Calls for Engr. Isaac Eshor to Join Delta Governorship Race

By Guide Express News

ASABA, DELTA STATE – As political discussions ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Delta State continue to gain momentum, the name of renowned maritime engineer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community development advocate, Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, is increasingly being mentioned among individuals considered capable of providing purposeful leadership for the state.

A native of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Engr. Eshor has earned recognition over the years for his contributions to engineering, business development, youth empowerment and humanitarian service.

Widely respected in both professional and community circles, he has built a reputation as a leader committed to creating opportunities, supporting vulnerable groups and promoting sustainable development through practical interventions.

As a seasoned Maritime Engineer, entrepreneur and International Ambassador to Intercap Nigeria, Eshor has contributed to economic growth through job creation, mentorship and support for initiatives aimed at empowering young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Political analysts and community stakeholders believe that his blend of technical expertise, business experience and grassroots engagement has positioned him as one of the emerging voices in conversations about the future leadership of Delta State.

Focus Foundation’s Impact Across Communities

Central to Engr. Eshor’s humanitarian efforts is the Focus Foundation, a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving lives and supporting community development initiatives.

Through the foundation, numerous intervention programmes have been implemented to address healthcare, education, youth empowerment and welfare challenges affecting underserved communities.

One of the foundation’s most celebrated healthcare initiatives is the sponsorship of free fibroid surgeries for women who could not afford medical treatment.

The programme has provided relief to many beneficiaries and offered renewed hope to families facing health-related challenges.

Empowering Youth Through Skills Development

The foundation has also invested significantly in youth empowerment through free vocational training, entrepreneurship development and skills acquisition programmes.

Many beneficiaries have received practical training designed to promote self-reliance, improve employability and reduce unemployment among young people.

These efforts have been widely praised by community leaders as meaningful contributions towards economic empowerment and social stability.

Supporting Education and the Elderly

In the education sector, the Focus Foundation has supported pupils and students through the distribution of school bags, educational materials and learning resources to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The initiative has encouraged school attendance and improved access to basic learning materials for many families.

The elderly have also benefited from periodic welfare programmes, relief materials and support packages aimed at easing economic hardship and improving their quality of life.

A Vision Built on Service

Speaking on leadership and governance, Engr. Eshor has consistently maintained that public service should focus on improving the welfare of citizens and creating opportunities that benefit all segments of society.

According to him, meaningful leadership should translate into better infrastructure, quality healthcare, improved education, economic empowerment and effective representation for the people.

As conversations surrounding the 2027 governorship election continue to evolve, supporters argue that Engr. Isaac Eshor’s record in engineering, entrepreneurship and philanthropy reflects the qualities required to drive sustainable development across Delta State.

For many, his years of service, community engagement and commitment to improving lives represent a foundation upon which a broader vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Delta State could be built.

 

Oborevwori Approves Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road, Ebu Community Seeks Reconstruction of Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road

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Oborevwori Approves Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road, Ebu Community Seeks Reconstruction of Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road

By Guide Express

EBU, DELTA STATE – Residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have welcomed the approval of the construction of the Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road by the Delta State Executive Council, describing the project as a major step towards addressing the community’s longstanding infrastructure challenges.

The road project, approved by the State Executive Council under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, stretches from the Royal Palace to Ebu Grammar School. Residents said the project is expected to improve mobility within the community and provide easier access to key public institutions.

Community leaders noted that the approval has renewed hope among residents after years of inadequate road infrastructure, which they said has negatively affected economic, educational and social activities in the agrarian community.

Speaking on the development, a resident, Mrs. Mary Odile, expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori and the Delta State Government for approving the project.
She said the road would ease transportation, improve access to schools and other public facilities, and stimulate economic activities within the community.

While commending the government for the intervention, residents appealed to the Delta State Government to also prioritise the reconstruction of the Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road, describing it as the community’s most pressing infrastructure need.

According to them, the Ebu–Ezi-Ukwu Road serves as the major access route connecting Ebu with neighbouring communities and markets but has remained in a deteriorating condition for several years, making movement difficult, particularly during the rainy season.

They added that reconstructing the road would improve the transportation of agricultural produce, restore commercial activities and strengthen links between Ebu and surrounding communities.

Residents expressed optimism that the approval of the Ilo–Ebu Grammar School Road signals the beginning of broader government attention to infrastructure development in Ebu Community.

On behalf of the traditional ruler, palace chiefs, elders, youths and Ebu indigenes at home and in the diaspora, the community expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and members of the Delta State Executive Council for approving the project.

The residents also expressed hope that more infrastructure projects would be extended to the community under the administration’s MORE Agenda to promote inclusive development across Delta State.

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