By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The maiden edition of the Felix Nyemike Nkadi (FNN) Ibusa Public Primary Schools Soccer Competition will officially kick off tomorrow at 3:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine’s College Soccer Pitch, Ibusa.
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Ibusa Public Primary Schools Soccer Competition Kicks Off Tomorrow
Isolated and Forgotten: The Silent Suffering of Ebu Community in Delta State
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Ebu, a historic and culturally rich community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, has become a symbol of long-standing neglect and abandonment by successive administrations. Despite its vast agricultural potential, strategic location and law-abiding population, the community has remained cut off from basic infrastructure and essential social services for decades.
Investigations by Newsbreeze, through interviews with traditional Chiefs, youth, elders and residents, reveal deep frustration over what they describe as systematic exclusion from government development plans.
Residents insist that although they continue to vote, pay taxes and support constituted authorities, their community has been left to decay.
One of the most visible signs of neglect in Ebu is its deplorable road network. Apart from the dilapidated Auchi Road, which has remained abandoned for years, there are no tarred internal roads within the community. During the rainy season, movement becomes almost impossible as the roads turn into muddy traps, worsening flooding and erosion.
A traditional Chief in the community, Chief Tony Ogbuji , lamented the situation, describing the neglect as unbearable.
“There are no internal tarred roads in Ebu. Our streets have been abandoned for decades. Even a wheelbarrow cannot pass through these roads, let alone a car. There are no streetlights, no solar water systems and no drainage,” he said.
Chief Ogbuji added that despite the absence of basic amenities, residents of Ebu have consistently participated in elections and supported the government in power.
“Our people are patient, but that patience is wearing thin. If this neglect continues, we may be forced to boycott future elections because we feel completely abandoned by our government.
The poor state of infrastructure has also heightened insecurity in the community. Residents say most streets are plunged into total darkness at night due to the absence of streetlights, creating safe havens for criminal activities.
Kingsley Edem, a farmer and resident, described the condition of the community as “disgraceful.”
“We have been abandoned by every administration. What offence has Ebu committed to deserve decades of neglect? Is it because we have no political voice to speak for us?” he asked, calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further deterioration.
Education in Ebu is another major casualty of neglect. Children are forced to trek long distances erosion eaten road to attend dilapidated schools lacking teachers, learning materials and basic infrastructure.
Many youths abandon their education altogether due to hardship.
Healthcare services are also almost non-existent. The community lacks a functional primary healthcare centre or hospital that operates year-round. As a result, residents rely heavily on traditional medicine, not by choice but by necessity. According to locals, many lives have been lost to preventable illnesses due to the absence of accessible and adequate healthcare facilities.
Ebu is blessed with fertile land suitable for agriculture and aquaculture. Farmers in the community supply food to neighbouring communities and urban centres. However, poor road access, lack of modern farming equipment, storage facilities and market linkages have severely limited productivity.
Residents believe that with proper government investment, Ebu could become a major agricultural hub and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
Adding to the community’s woes is the lack of access to clean drinking water. Ebu has no modern boreholes, forcing residents to rely on streams and rivers for dring water. Locals lament that in this modern era, they are still exposed to waterborne diseases such as typhoid and cholera due to contaminated water sources.
What pains the people of Ebu most, according to residents, is the failure of government to uphold its responsibility to them. Despite the community’s strategic location as a potential gateway to northern parts of the country, Ebu has remained excluded from key development initiatives.
“The issue is not just underdevelopment; it is injustice,” an aggrieved resident told Newsbreeze.
“Development is not a favour; it is our right. We are not asking for miracles. We are asking to be treated as citizens of Delta State, not forgotten statistics.”
As the rainy season approaches and fears of flooding and erosion intensify, the people of Ebu are once again appealing to the Delta State Government to urgently intervene and not to abandone Ebu as like other past administrations. For a community rich in history, culture and potential, residents insist that continued neglect is no longer acceptable.
Ebu’s story serves as a stark reminder that meaningful development cannot be achieved while entire communities remain isolated and forgotten.
Pastor Idowu Okeze: A Beacon of Development and Hope for Igbuzo
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
By any standard, 2025 will remain a landmark year in the history of Igbuzo Kingdom, as unprecedented waves of development, empowerment and social intervention swept through the town—largely attributed to the tireless efforts of one man, Pastor Idowu Okeze.
For years, communities across Nigeria have yearned for leaders who combine vision, influence and genuine love for their people. In Igbuzo, that aspiration has found expression in Pastor Okeze, whose commitment to youth empowerment, infrastructural development and support for the less privileged has continued to redefine grassroots leadership.
Throughout 2025, Igbuzo witnessed remarkable interventions attracted through Pastor Okeze’s engagements with relevant Federal Government agencies. These interventions cut across critical sectors of community life, touching youths, women, students and vulnerable groups. From roads construction to borehole projects providing clean and accessible water, from school renovations to the fencing of educational institutions, the impact has been both visible and far-reaching.
Educational development stood out prominently. Several schools in Igbuzo benefited from renovation projects,suppy of chairs ,Tables , modern laboratory equipment and improved learning infrastructure.
Scholarships were also secured for deserving students, offering renewed hope to families who previously struggled to keep their children in school. For many beneficiaries, these interventions were not just projects but lifelines that restored dignity and opportunity.
In the area of empowerment, Pastor Okeze facilitated cash support and empowerment schemes targeted at youths and the less privileged, helping many start small businesses and stabilize their livelihoods.
Agricultural and vocational empowerment programmes, including SEMAI SRS initiatives, further strengthened local capacity and productivity.
Notably, Pastor Idowu Okeze has consistently acknowledged the role of the Federal Government in making these achievements possible, openly appreciating the proactive administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its commitment to grassroots empowerment and inclusive development. His approach reflects a spirit of collaboration rather than self-glorification—an attribute many in Igbuzo describe as rare and admirable.
The gratitude of the people has been overwhelming. Across the town, residents speak with pride about a son who has placed Igbuzo first and used his influence for collective progress. Youth leaders, elders and community stakeholders agree that Pastor Okeze has demonstrated, through action, what it truly means to love and cherish one’s homeland.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Igbuzo Youth Council and other community groups unanimously honoured him as Igbuzo Man of the Year 2025—a title he has now earned for three consecutive years. To many, this is not just an award, but a reflection of deep communal appreciation and trust.
As the town entered 2026, Pastor Okeze showed no signs of slowing down. He recently announced another phase of empowerment programmes focused on skill professionals and trainees, aimed at grooming future entrepreneurs.
Empowerment forms have already been distributed and submitted, with assurances that beneficiaries will receive starter packs to enable them establish sustainable ventures.
For the people of Igbuzo, Pastor Idowu Okeze has become more than a leader—he is widely regarded as a God-sent light, a man whose compassion continues to touch lives daily. As prayers rise for his continued strength and elevation, the community remains united in its resolve to support and honour a man who has consistently remembered his roots and uplifted his people.
Indeed, Igbuzo’s story in recent years is inseparable from the name Pastor Idowu Okeze—a symbol of hope, service and selfless leadership.
Ugbolu Community Commends Oborevwori on Road Project, Seeks Urgent Intervention on Palace Road
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The people of Ugbolu Community have lauded the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the commencement of the long-awaited road project in the area, describing it as a clear demonstration of responsive and people-oriented leadership.
Community leaders and residents expressed delight that the road project has finally taken off, noting that it will significantly improve transportation, boost economic activities, and enhance the overall quality of life of the people. They praised the governor for his commitment to infrastructure development across the state, in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.
However, amid the commendation, the community made a passionate appeal to the state government to urgently address the deplorable condition of the only road leading to the palace of the traditional ruler of Ugbolu. According to them, the palace road has become virtually impassable, especially during the rainy season, causing serious inconvenience to residents, visitors, and cultural stakeholders.
The people described the state of the palace road as “shameful and embarrassing,” stressing that it does not reflect the cultural pride and heritage of the community. They lamented that a road leading to such an important institution as the palace of their king remains in a state of neglect, despite its significance as a symbol of unity, tradition, and authority.
Calling on Governor Oborevwori, whom they described as proactive and ever-working, the community urged him to reconsider the condition of the palace road and declare a state of emergency on it. They expressed confidence that the governor would once again listen to their cry and extend his infrastructural intervention to include the Ogbolu Palace Road.
The community reaffirmed its support for the Oborevwori administration and expressed optimism that the government’s timely intervention would restore dignity to the palace, improve access, and further strengthen the bond between the state government and the people of Ugbolu.
Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation Launches 2026 Skill Empowerment for 300 Beneficiaries
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation has kicked off the year 2026 on a strong note with the launch of a New Year Skill Empowerment Programme targeted at 300 beneficiaries.
According to the Foundation, the empowerment initiative is strictly designed for individuals who have already completed training in a skill or vocational profession but lack the necessary starter packs to establish themselves and become self-reliant.
Beneficiaries will, however, undergo an additional three weeks of rigorous assessment and refresher training to ensure they are fully qualified and competent in their chosen fields before receiving the starter packs.
The Foundation emphasized that the programme is not meant for fresh learners. Those who are currently undergoing training or have not completed learning a skill are advised not to pick up the empowerment forms. The organizers assured that such individuals will be considered for future programmes at the appropriate time.
Speaking on the initiative, the Foundation Co- ordinator, Dr. Pat Adigwe expressed deep appreciation to Pastor Idowu Okeze for approving the empowerment of a total of 300 persons, describing the gesture as a laudable way to begin the new year.
Prospective beneficiaries have been advised to note that participation requires strict adherence to instructions. Only those who successfully complete the additional three-week evaluation and demonstrate readiness and commitment will qualify to receive the starter packs.
Form collection for the empowerment programme commences daily at 9:00 a.m., and applicants are encouraged to present themselves promptly and prepared.
The Foundation described the initiative as a strategic step toward reducing unemployment, promoting self-reliance, and empowering skilled individuals to contribute meaningfully to economic growth in their communities.
Elder Acho Nonyalim: A Life of Service, Compassion and Impact in Igbuzo
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
In every community, there are individuals whose lives speak louder than words—men whose legacies are written not in titles, but in the lives they have touched. Elder Acho Nonyalim, Chairman of Junuic Group of Companies, stands tall among such rare breed in Igbuzo.
For many years, Elder Nonyalim has remained a pillar of hope to his people, quietly and consistently uplifting lives through purposeful philanthropy. One of his most impactful interventions is the “Back to School” initiative, a project that has restored smiles and renewed hope in the hearts of countless children. Through this programme, thousands of school bags, textbooks, notebooks, uniforms, sandals and other essential educational materials have been distributed to schools across Igbuzo, ensuring that children from less-privileged homes return to school with dignity and confidence.
His passion for education goes beyond material support. Elder Acho Nonyalim has awarded scholarships to students at various levels—from primary schools to tertiary institutions—helping many young people pursue their dreams and build a better future. To several beneficiaries, his timely intervention became the bridge between abandoning education and achieving academic success.
The women of Igbuzo have also felt the warmth of his generosity. Over the years, especially during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter, Elder Nonyalim has consistently reached out to village women with gifts of rice, wrappers and food items, easing their burdens and reinforcing the spirit of communal love and togetherness. These gestures, carried out year after year, have become a source of joy and reassurance to many families.
Beyond charity, Elder Acho Nonyalim has empowered his people through employment, providing jobs and opportunities to numerous sons and daughters of Igbuzo. As a visionary entrepreneur, he believes strongly in self-reliance and economic empowerment as tools for sustainable development.
As he prepares to celebrate another year of life, this moment offers a fitting opportunity to appreciate a man whose birthday is not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of service, sacrifice and selfless giving. Elder Acho Nonyalim is truly a colossus—a passionate giver, a man of vision, and a proud son of Igbuzo whose impact will continue to resonate for generations.
Igbuzo celebrates you, Elder Acho Nonyalim, for the lives you have touched, the hope you continue to inspire, and the legacy of love you are building. Happy birthday in Advance big brother.
Nwaoboshi’s Death Leaves Political Vacuum in Oshimili North
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The death of Distinguished Senator Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Oshimili North Local Government Area, creating what many observers have described as a profound vacuum in leadership and influence within Delta State politics.
For decades, Senator Nwaoboshi stood as the political oracle and towering figure of Oshimili North, a voice that resonated at critical meetings where decisions shaping the future of the state were taken. His absence has now raised pressing questions among political stakeholders and grassroots supporters alike: who will speak for Oshimili North at the council of elders?
Who will defend the interests of the area at gatherings of Delta State’s political power brokers? And who will stand firm when power-sharing arrangements are negotiated behind closed doors where emerging politicians are often excluded?Beyond representation, Senator Nwaoboshi was known for his ability to confront political heavyweights from other zones and ensure that Oshimili North was not sidelined in crucial state affairs. At meetings of party caucuses and elite political forums, his presence alone commanded respect and guaranteed that the voice of his people was heard.
The depth of the vacuum was further underscored by an unusual confession from a politician from Igbuzo, who was not politically aligned with Senator Nwaoboshi during his lifetime. Speaking in confidence, the politician admitted that the senator’s death has significantly altered the political influence of Oshimili North within the state.
According to him, it has now become clear that Oshimili North is facing a serious political dilemma following the fall of its only widely acknowledged political iroko.
He questioned who now has the courage, experience and network to occupy the political space vacated by Senator Nwaoboshi and confront entrenched political interests whenever Oshimili North risks being short-changed.
As the reality of his absence continues to sink in, many within the local government area fear that Oshimili North may become vulnerable in future political negotiations unless a new, strong and united leadership emerges. The concern, observers say, is not just about filling a position, but about replacing a voice capable of challenging political dominance and protecting collective interests at the highest levels.
While many believe that leadership ultimately comes from God, there is a growing consensus that this is a critical moment for Oshimili North to reflect, reorganize and nurture a new generation of leaders who can rise to the occasion.
With the political goalpost now seemingly unguarded, stakeholders argue that the search for a credible political successor—or a collective leadership capable of defending the zone—has become urgent. As Oshimili North mourns one of its most influential sons, the pressing question remains: who will rise to fill the void left by Senator Peter Nwaoboshi at a time when the local government needs a strong and fearless voice the most? ALILI
CP Aina Adesola Declares Zero Tolerance for Police Misconduct in Delta
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Delta State Police Command, under the leadership of its newly appointed Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, has declared zero tolerance for extortion, intimidation, incivility and all forms of unprofessional conduct by officers and men of the Command.
CP Adesola, who is widely described as proactive, upright and disciplined, has assured Deltans that the era of police officers extorting or intimidating members of the public with a sense of immunity is over. He reaffirmed his commitment to strict adherence to the rule of law, justice and professionalism in the discharge of policing duties across the state.
The Commissioner, known for his diligence and strong disciplinary record, stressed that any officer found wanting would be dealt with decisively, irrespective of rank or position. He assured residents that his administration would be guided by fairness, accountability and respect for human rights.
In a clear demonstration of this resolve, CP Adesola has ordered the immediate removal and redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Jesse Division, CSP Chidi Nwabuzor, to the Delta State Police Command headquarters for investigation by the AC X-Squad.
The decision followed allegations of extortion involving the sum of ₦2.5 million, as well as a series of complaints bordering on extortion and other unprofessional conduct reportedly leveled against the DPO from different quarters.
The action has been widely commended by residents, who see it as a strong signal of the Commissioner’s determination to restore public confidence in the police and ensure ethical conduct among officers.
Observers have described Delta State as fortunate to have a Commissioner of Police with a reputation for integrity and justice at this critical time, expressing optimism that his leadership will usher in a new era of responsible and people-friendly policing.
Meanwhile, the State Chairman of Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN) , Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom has appeal to Community newspaper publishers and other media practitioners in the state to partner with the new Commissioner by offering the necessary media support to promote transparency, accountability and public trust in the Delta State Police Command.
The Delta State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property while maintaining professionalism and respect for the rights of all citizens.
Aina Takes Charge as Delta’s New Police Boss, Pledges Safer State
By Ike Philip Abiagom
The Nigeria Police Force has appointed Aina Adesola as the 23rd Commissioner of Police in Delta State, as he formally assumed office at the State Police Headquarters, Asaba.
Addressing journalists shortly after taking over, CP Aina expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, for the confidence reposed in him, describing the posting as both an honour and a solemn call to service.
He assured the leadership of the Police Force and the people of Delta State of his unwavering commitment to duty, noting that Delta occupies a special place in his career, having begun his policing journey in the state after graduating from the Police Academy.
CP Aina paid tribute to his predecessor, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, commending his leadership, dedication and the institutional foundations he laid, which, he said, would be strengthened under his administration.
Outlining his mandate, the new Commissioner of Police said his priority is to strengthen security architecture, reduce crime to the barest minimum and ensure the safety of lives, property and economic activities across the state. He stressed that no society can thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity, especially a strategic economic hub like Delta State.
According to him, the command under his leadership will adopt a professional, intelligence-driven and people-oriented policing strategy, with emphasis on intelligence-led operations, proactive crime prevention, community policing, respect for human rights and strict adherence to the rule of law.
He disclosed that the command would work closely with sister security agencies, the Delta State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to combat crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and communal conflicts.
CP Aina also appreciated the Delta State Government for its continuous support to the Police and appealed for sustained collaboration in the interest of peace, stability and development.
Emphasising that security is a collective responsibility, he called on residents to support the Police with timely and credible information, while urging the media to remain professional partners in promoting public trust and security initiatives.
Addressing officers and men of the Delta State Police Command, the Commissioner promised purposeful and fair leadership, insisting that discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights would be non-negotiable, as misconduct, extortion and abuse of office would not be tolerated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to accountability and service, expressing confidence that, with collective support, Delta State would continue on the path of peace and security.
