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Esewezie Breaks Ground for Achalla Cottage Hospital, Expands Healthcare Drive in Oshimili North

IBUSA, DELTA STATE — The Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Ifeanyi Esewezie, has commenced the construction of the Achalla Cottage Hospital in Ibusa, marking another major step in his administration’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery and accelerate grassroots development across the council area.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Monday, September 28, 2026, attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, council officials and residents, who gathered to witness the commencement of the healthcare project.

Performing the groundbreaking ceremony, the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty Obi Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, described the project as a significant intervention that would improve access to healthcare services and enhance the quality of life of residents.

The monarch commended Esewezie’s administration for prioritising projects that directly address the needs of the people and offered royal blessings for the successful completion of the hospital.

Speaking at the ceremony, Esewezie described the project as more than the construction of a healthcare facility, saying it represents a new phase of development for Achalla and neighbouring communities.

According to him, the cottage hospital will provide residents with improved access to medical services while also contributing to economic activities and development in the area.

He further disclosed that an access road would be constructed to link the community to the hospital, noting that the road would improve movement, connectivity and access to essential services.

«“This is not just about building a hospital; it is about creating opportunities, improving lives and laying the foundation for a healthier and more prosperous community,” Esewezie said.»

The council chairman reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every part of Oshimili North benefits from its development agenda, stressing that the hospital project was conceived in response to the healthcare needs and aspirations of residents.

Political leaders who attended the ceremony also commended the council chairman for what they described as his commitment to grassroots development.

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North, Hon. Austin Nnabuife, praised Esewezie for what he described as visionary leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of residents.

Nnabuife described the hospital as a legacy project that would have a lasting impact on healthcare delivery and strengthen confidence in grassroots governance.

Also speaking, Dr. Austin Obidi commended the initiative, noting that projects that directly improve the lives of ordinary citizens are important indicators of development at the grassroots.

Among those present at the ceremony were the Diokpa of Achalla-Ibusa, Uchechukwu Okolie; Chief Celestine Okafor; the Ikwele of Ibusa; Hon. Henry Olowo, Leader of the Legislative Arm of the council, alongside councillors; Dr. Austin Eloka Ajufo, Secretary to the Local Government; Mrs. Jones Ofunne, Head of Personnel Management; Mr. Mike Okeh, Treasurer of the Local Government; council staff, political appointees, community leaders and other stakeholders.

The ceremony was marked by excitement among residents, many of whom welcomed the project as a significant intervention in healthcare infrastructure for Achalla and surrounding communities.

The project is expected to be completed and commissioned in the second week of December 2026.

Upon completion, the Achalla Cottage Hospital is expected to provide healthcare services to residents of Achalla and neighbouring communities while contributing to the broader development of Oshimili North.

The commencement of the project adds to the list of development initiatives being undertaken by the Esewezie administration as it continues to focus on healthcare, infrastructure and other grassroots interventions across the local government area.

Governor’s Aide Applauds Esewezie’s Projects, Hails Achalla Cottage Hospital

ASABA, DELTA STATE — The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Youth Mobilisation, Hon. Chief Lucky Blessing Abuah, has commended the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Ifeanyi Esewezie, for his focus on grassroots development and people-oriented projects across the council area.

Abuah gave the commendation during an interaction with journalists in Asaba, where he particularly praised the groundbreaking of the Achalla Cottage Hospital in Ibusa, describing the project as a significant step toward improving healthcare delivery in the area.

According to the Governor’s aide, the hospital project demonstrates the commitment of the Oshimili North administration to bringing essential healthcare services closer to residents, particularly people living in Achalla and neighbouring communities.

He noted that the groundbreaking ceremony, performed by the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty Obi Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, marked the commencement of what he described as an important healthcare intervention for the community.

Abuah said the proposed cottage hospital would help improve access to medical services and reduce pressure on existing healthcare facilities serving residents within the area.

He also commended Esewezie for initiating projects targeted at improving the living conditions of residents, saying the council chairman had demonstrated a commitment to delivering development at the grassroots.

The SSA further attributed the increasing pace of infrastructure development at the sub-national level to improved revenue accruing to state and local governments following recent economic reforms by the Federal Government.

He said the ongoing projects in Oshimili North illustrate how available resources can be channelled toward addressing critical needs and improving the welfare of citizens.

Abuah also commended the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Austin Nnabuife, for his grassroots engagement and leadership.

He said Nnabuife’s efforts toward strengthening party structures and maintaining contact with members had contributed to greater engagement among stakeholders in the local government.

The youth mobilisation aide expressed optimism that continued cooperation among political leaders, party stakeholders and community representatives would support further development across Oshimili North and Delta State.

Anambra Cracks Down on Female Disinheritance, Orders Police Probe, Prosecution

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AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE — The Anambra State Government has directed the Nigeria Police Force to investigate reported cases of women and girls being denied inheritance rights on the basis of their gender and forward relevant case files to the state Ministry of Justice for possible prosecution.

The directive was issued by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, in a letter addressed to the police and personally signed by him.

According to reports, the state government has received complaints of female children and women being prevented from inheriting property belonging to their parents or families because of customs and traditional practices.

Nweke said such practices remain unlawful, noting that previous decisions of the Supreme Court have rejected customary rules that discriminate against females in matters of inheritance.

The Attorney-General directed the police to thoroughly investigate reported cases of gender-based disinheritance and transmit the resulting case files to his office for further legal action.

The state Ministry of Justice has also designated its Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Unit to handle the prosecution of persons accused of gender-based disinheritance, alongside other domestic violence and sexual offences.

Nweke further stated that denying women and girls inheritance rights solely because of their gender constitutes an offence under Section 22 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2017 of Anambra State, with offenders potentially facing up to four years in prison upon conviction.

The latest directive builds on earlier judicial decisions concerning discriminatory inheritance practices. In Ukeje v. Ukeje, the Supreme Court held that a customary rule excluding a female child from inheriting her deceased father’s estate on the basis of gender was inconsistent with constitutional protections against discrimination.

The Supreme Court also addressed discriminatory inheritance practices in Anekwe v. Nweke, a case involving the attempted disinheritance of a widow because she had no male child. The court rejected the discriminatory custom.

The Anambra government’s latest action therefore places reported cases of gender-based disinheritance within the criminal justice process, with the police responsible for investigation and the Ministry of Justice to consider prosecution where the evidence establishes an offence.

Women and girls affected by such practices are expected to report cases to the appropriate authorities for investigation and legal action.

Esewezie Hosts Traditional Rulers, APC Leaders as Sister Weds in Grand Ibusa Ceremony

Olorogun Hon. Innocent Esewezie, Chairman of Oshimili North LGA and brother of the bride.

IBUSA, DELTA STATE — September 25, 2026: The residence of the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Chief Innocent Esewezie, popularly known as Ugonwa of Ibusa, was agog with celebration as his sister, Nkechi, tied the knot with Toritseji in a colourful traditional marriage ceremony attended by traditional rulers, chiefs, political leaders, government officials, family members and well-wishers.

The ceremony, held in Ibusa, Delta State, attracted prominent personalities from across Oshimili North, underscoring the strong family, community and social ties surrounding the Esewezie family.

Among the distinguished royal fathers who graced the occasion were HRM Obi Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, Obuzor of Ibusa; HRM Obi Daniel Chukwuka Ogbudo (JP), Traditional Ruler of Atuma-Iga; and HRM Obi (Capt.) Ifeanyi Clement Ejiofor (Rtd.), KSC, JP, Traditional Ruler of Ukala. 

Their presence added traditional colour and significance to the celebration, with the royal fathers joining the families, guests and community members in extending goodwill and blessings to the newly married couple.

The event also attracted a cross-section of prominent chiefs and community leaders, including Chief Celestine Okafor, Ikwele of Ibusa; Chief Charles Okonkwo, Odogwu of Ibusa; Chief Victor Uchunor, President General of Ibusa Community Development Union; Chief Dr. Austin Obidi, Nshiweze; Chief Chijindu Fred Ajudua, Onwa of Ibusa; and Chief Nelson Agbamuche, among other palace chiefs and community stakeholders.

The political class was also well represented, particularly members and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North.

Those who attended included Hon. Austin Nnabuife, Chairman of the APC in Oshimili North; Chief Louis Ndukwe; Prof. Andy Egwunyenga; Chief Olise Ifeajika; Dr. Ben Iwezu; Dr. Austin Eloka Ajufo, Secretary to the Local Government (SLG); Chief Kizito Ijeh; Chief Mike Diayi; and Chief Lucky Abuah, alongside serving councillors, supervisory councillors, ward chairmen, the Ward Women Leader, youth leaders and other party stakeholders.

Representatives of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), state and local government appointees, friends, associates and members of the extended Esewezie family were also present to celebrate the union.

The gathering created an atmosphere of camaraderie as families, traditional institutions, community leaders and political stakeholders came together beyond their different spheres to share in the joy of the occasion.

Guests were treated to the rich cultural expressions associated with a traditional marriage ceremony, with the celebration providing an opportunity for both families to formally come together and honour the union between Nkechi and Toritseji.

Well-wishers at the event congratulated the couple and the Esewezie family, praying for the newlyweds to build a home founded on love, understanding, peace and mutual respect.

The ceremony also offered an opportunity for guests to celebrate Chief Innocent Esewezie and his family, with the turnout reflecting the relationships the family has built within the traditional, community and political circles of Oshimili North.

At the close of the ceremony, the Esewezie family expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers, chiefs, political leaders, government officials, family members, friends and well-wishers who honoured the occasion with their presence and goodwill.

The colourful celebration ended on a joyful note as guests joined the family in wishing Nkechi and Toritseji a

“The bride & groom, her bridesmaids & groomsmen — surrounded by love, laughter and beautiful memories. 💍❤️”

Itsekiri Omoko traditional dance display

peaceful, prosperous and enduring marriage.

Acho Empowers  Ibusa Students With 15,000 Books, Educational Materials

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Businessman and philanthropist, Elder Acho Nonyalim, has distributed thousands of educational materials to pupils and students in Isieke, Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, as part of efforts to support families ahead of the new academic session.

The intervention was carried out under the JUNIUC Back-to-School Empowerment Programme, through which Nonyalim provided more than 10,000 exercise books, 5,000 textbooks and writing pens to about 500 primary and secondary school pupils and students.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Nonyalim said the initiative was designed to ensure that financial difficulties do not prevent children from accessing basic educational materials.

He described education as one of the most effective tools for transforming society and empowering future generations.

“The true worth of a person is reflected in how he treats those who are in need. Those of us who are blessed with resources must share with others and help bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. Education remains the key to a better future, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn.”

Nonyalim explained that the annual intervention has been sustained for more than a decade, adding that it was inspired by his desire to support less-privileged children and reduce the financial burden on parents preparing their wards for a new academic session.

According to him, his support for education extends beyond the distribution of books and writing materials, as he has also assisted school dropouts, provided scholarships to indigent students and supported vulnerable children, including orphans, to continue their education.

The philanthropist urged the Delta State Government to continue promoting reading culture and educational development in public schools.

He also called on wealthy individuals, corporate organisations and non-governmental organisations to invest more in education and youth development, stressing that the future of communities depends largely on the quality of education available to their children.

Nonyalim said the initiative was established not only to provide educational materials but also to strengthen communities through education, empowerment and meaningful engagement of young people.

He expressed appreciation to members of his family, friends and associates who contributed to the success of this year’s programme, promising to sustain the project for as long as he has the resources and opportunity to do so.

Beneficiaries, parents and community members commended the gesture, describing it as a timely intervention that would help ease the financial pressure associated with school resumption.

They said the annual programme has become a source of support for hundreds of families in Ibusa and has helped promote access to educational resources within the community.

The JUNIUC Back-to-School Empowerment Programme has, over the years, continued to provide educational support to children in Ibusa, reinforcing Nonyalim’s stated commitment to education and human capital development.

Delta Police Take Education Commissioner, Three Others Into Custody Over Deputy Director’s Death

ASABA — The Delta State Police Command has taken the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, and three other suspects into custody as part of investigations into the death of Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda, a Deputy Director in the state Ministry of Secondary Education.

The development was disclosed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, in a statement issued on Monday, September 28, 2026.

According to the police, the commissioner and the three other suspects were taken into custody in connection with the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death.

The latest development brings the number of persons currently in police custody over the matter to five.

The police had earlier arrested Lucky Adoh, one of three aides allegedly linked to an incident involving Adeda at the Ministry of Secondary Education in Asaba. Police subsequently intensified efforts to apprehend other persons connected to the investigation.

The Command also said it was seeking Mrs Clemetine Ufuoma, Director of Basic and Secondary Education, and Clement Apia, driver to the Commissioner for Secondary Education, for questioning.

The police urged the two persons to make themselves available to investigators, saying their presence was required to further the investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, directed the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to conduct a thorough, impartial and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death.

The investigation is expected to consider available evidence and the actions of persons connected with the incident before determining whether anyone is culpable.

The police have also urged members of the public to avoid drawing conclusions while the investigation is ongoing.

The development follows growing calls for a thorough investigation into Adeda’s death after his death triggered protests by civil servants at the Delta State Secretariat in Asaba.

Earlier police statements had said allegations before the Command indicated that Adeda was allegedly assaulted by aides to the Commissioner. The police said those allegations remained subject to investigation.

Dr Ashibogwu has previously denied ordering or participating in any assault on Adeda and called for the circumstances surrounding the death to be established through investigation and available evidence.

The police have assured the deceased’s family and members of the public that anyone found culpable will face justice in accordance with the law.

Olejeme Hails Asagba Azinge, Says Reign Is Transforming Asaba and Preserving Its Heritage

Olejeme Hails Asagba Azinge, Says Reign Is Transforming Asaba and Preserving Its Heritage

ASABA, DELTA STATE — Former Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and Board Chairman of Trustfund Pensions Plc, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, has commended the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, for what she described as visionary leadership and a strong commitment to the development and preservation of Asaba’s cultural heritage.

Olejeme, who is also the Global Vice President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and National Coordinator of the Tinubu Torch Bearers (TTB), said the 14th Asagba of Asaba had demonstrated how traditional institutions could contribute to social and economic development while preserving the identity and heritage of their people.

Speaking on the monarch’s reign, Olejeme said Prof. Azinge had placed community development, public welfare and institutional advancement at the centre of his administration.

She attributed his leadership approach to his background as a constitutional scholar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and academic, describing it as inclusive, knowledge-driven and development-focused.

According to Olejeme, the Asagba’s reign has witnessed attention to healthcare, education, youth empowerment and social welfare.

She cited initiatives she attributed to the monarch, including the donation of dialysis machines, support for the establishment of a Drug Rehabilitation Centre, improvements in primary healthcare services and the introduction of ambulance services to strengthen emergency medical response within the kingdom.

Olejeme also praised the monarch’s reported support for education through scholarship and bursary programmes, as well as assistance to institutions including Dennis Osadebay University and the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba.

She further highlighted youth-focused initiatives involving skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and vocational training, saying such programmes could help young people develop skills for economic self-reliance.

The former NSITF Board Chairman also commended initiatives targeted at widows and other vulnerable members of the community, describing them as part of the monarch’s commitment to inclusive development.

On economic development, Olejeme praised what she described as the Asagba’s engagement with investors, corporate organisations and development partners to attract investments and create opportunities within the kingdom.

She also highlighted initiatives aimed at strengthening Asaba’s tourism and cultural profile, including the proposed Asaba Annual International Marathon, the planned Asaba Sports Academy and the revitalisation of the Palace Museum.

Olejeme described the ongoing Asagba Palace Project as a significant initiative that could help preserve the cultural heritage of the Asaba people while serving as a symbol of unity, identity and pride for future generations.

She said one of the defining features of Prof. Azinge’s reign was what she described as his ability to combine traditional values with contemporary development strategies.

Olejeme also paid tribute to the Asaba Queen, Her Majesty Obi (Dr.) Valerie Azinge, SAN, whom she described as a strong pillar of support behind the monarch’s developmental vision.

According to her, the Asaba Queen has continued to contribute to initiatives aimed at advancing the welfare and development of the kingdom.

“The people of Asaba appreciate her contributions and pray for God’s continued wisdom, strength and good health upon her,” Olejeme stated.

She expressed confidence that the initiatives associated with the monarch’s reign would have lasting significance, while calling on Asaba indigenes at home and in the diaspora to continue supporting developmental efforts aimed at promoting unity, growth and prosperity in the kingdom.

Oborevwori Celebrates Oyedepo at 72, Hails His Impact on Faith, Education

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ASABA, Delta State — September 27, 2026 — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, on his 72nd birthday.

In a goodwill message issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Oyedepo as a prominent figure whose contributions extend beyond Christian ministry to education and nation-building.

Oborevwori said the cleric had, through decades of service, inspired millions of people in Nigeria and beyond.

He described Oyedepo as a “rare gift to Christendom” and commended his teachings, mentorship and commitment to Christian ministry.

The governor also highlighted Oyedepo’s contribution to education through the establishment of Covenant University and Landmark University, saying the institutions have contributed to academic development, character formation and youth empowerment.

According to Oborevwori, Oyedepo’s influence has extended beyond the church, with his educational and other initiatives contributing to broader discussions around human development and nation-building.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate our father in the Lord, Bishop David Oyedepo, as he marks 72 remarkable years of a life dedicated to God and humanity,” the governor said.

Oborevwori also prayed for continued strength, good health and many more years of service for the cleric.

The birthday message comes two years after the Delta governor similarly congratulated Oyedepo on his 70th birthday in 2024.

Adeda Family Rejects Delta Govt Condolence Visit, Questions Inquiry Panel Over Deputy Director’s Death

The family of late Mr. Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda, a Deputy Director in the Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, has rejected a proposed condolence visit by the Delta State Government over his death.

The family also expressed reservations about the Administrative Panel of Inquiry constituted by the state government to investigate the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death.

The position was contained in a statement issued by Lloyd Sodje Adeda, the deceased’s brother, in which the family said it lacked confidence in the current process and wanted outstanding concerns addressed before engaging with the government. Vanguard independently reported the family’s rejection of both the condolence visit and the panel.

Adeda reportedly died following an incident at the Delta State Secretariat in Asaba, where he was a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.

The circumstances surrounding his death have triggered protests by civil servants and an investigation by the Delta State Police Command.

Police spokesman SP Bright Edafe said the command had received complaints alleging that Adeda was physically assaulted by three aides linked to the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu.

The police identified the three individuals as Enos Attah, Oputa Okestine and Lucky Adoh. Lucky Adoh has been arrested, while police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the other two.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale, directed the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and Adeda’s subsequent death.

According to the police, investigators will examine available video footage, eyewitness accounts, medical records and the actions of people connected with the incident before determining whether anyone is culpable.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Government has constituted an eight-member Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death. The panel includes representatives of organised labour and has been given two weeks to complete its assignment.

The family, however, has questioned the composition of the panel, particularly its reliance on government officials, and said it wants a process it considers sufficiently independent and credible.

The family’s allegations against individuals connected to the incident remain subject to investigation and have not been established by a court.

The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, has denied ordering or participating in any assault on Adeda. His account is among the issues expected to be examined as investigations continue.

The police have urged members of the public to refrain from reaching conclusions before investigations are concluded.

 

 

 

Oshimili North APC Unity Drive Gets Abuah’s Commendation

Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilisation, Chief Lucky Blessing Odiakachukwu Abuah, has commended the Oshimili North APC Consultative Team for its efforts to promote unity and reconciliation among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area.

Abuah gave the commendation while reacting to recent efforts aimed at resolving internal differences and strengthening cooperation among party members and stakeholders in Oshimili North.

According to him, the consultative team’s intervention has helped bring together aggrieved members and encourage dialogue among key stakeholders, describing the development as an important step toward building a more cohesive party structure.

He specifically commended the reported reconciliation between the member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Esenwah, and the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, Olorogun Innocent Esewezie.

Abuah said renewed cooperation among party leaders would contribute to greater cohesion within the APC and strengthen collaboration among members at the grassroots.

“At a time like this, unity is very important. The coming together of party leaders and members will strengthen our collective resolve and position the APC for greater success,” Abuah said.

The governor’s youth mobilisation aide also praised Esenwah for publicly declaring his support for APC candidates in future elections.

“Hon. Frank Esenwah has demonstrated true leadership by pledging support for all APC candidates. This is the kind of commitment that promotes party growth and unity. He is a leader who has the interest of the party at heart,” he stated.

Abuah further appreciated the Oshimili North APC Consultative Team, led by Dr. Austin Obidi, as well as the local government APC chairman, for their roles in facilitating dialogue and promoting understanding among party members.

He urged party faithful to sustain the spirit of cooperation, mutual respect and inclusiveness, stressing that continued unity would strengthen the party’s grassroots engagement and internal collaboration.

The reconciliation efforts come as political stakeholders in Oshimili North continue to engage on ways of improving cooperation among party leaders and members ahead of future political activities.