[dropcap][/dropcap]I knew Bola Ahmed Tinubu when we were at the National Assembly as senators. He belonged to a different party (SDP) while I was in NRC. But we had a common interest when it came to telling the truth. We said it as it was then.

He knew my vision even when the June 12 issue was in the front burner. I could see the injustices and I stood by fairness because I detest injustice. You can see that I identified myself with the aspiration of Nigerians.

So we had a lot of things in common and we had been friends since then. He saw me as being straightforward, honest and sincere in all my dealings with him. Not for any material gain. In fact, when I began my legal sojourn in the Emirship tussle he also supported me in terms of advice because it was a tough battle for me. It was tough taking on the government and we had to employ the services of a senior advocate of Nigeria in the person of Wole Olanipekun.

When God made me the Emir I said this man was there when I was in dire need of help so why can’t I use my position to make him what I feel will help him in future politically. That was why I honoured him with the title of ‘Jagaban.’ Jagaban means ‘Leader of Warriors.’

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he APC Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Hon. Austin Nnabuife aka Ojeagbue , has stated that His Excellency Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR, Deputy President of the Senate and Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Delta State is our next governor come 2023 in the State.

He said with the task ahead, all APC members are also campaign coordinators, mobilizers and canvassers for the party at all levels in the State. That this – membership of the Party – was what he referred to as the “entire team”. Nothing that as faithful party members, they must be committed to the party leadership, because its decision is supreme and every member must be prepared to accept such decisions.

Nnabuife asserted that “It is only the APC that has the capacity to defeat this monster, the cabal called PDP in Delta State. The movement to form a new government in the State is not about APC members alone, but a task for all Deltans. I, therefore, charge members of the Campaign Council to ensure total victory for the party during the forth-coming general elections. The task for all of you is to make sure APC emerges victorious in all elective offices up to the Presidency.

“We must take back our dear State from Governor Ifeanyi Okowa who with his cohorts, have held our state hostage. After over 7 years of Okowa, one thing we all agree on is that there is a huge gap between the funds Delta State received, generated and borrowed; even recklessly, and what Okowa’s government has done. This has left our state seriously undermined in so many ways that are too numerous to count. Okowa misused and wasted our hard-earned resources. And when the state ran out of funds, he embarked on a reckless borrowing spree, thereby mortgaging our future and those of our unborn children.

“We all remember what happened to Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya when he dared to ask questions, when he tried to do his job and provide the checks and balances our Constitution demands. He was fired for trying to scrutinize executive actions as the legislature must do. And because power corrupts and absolutely power corrupts absolutely, we ended up with an uncontrolled state government that has since turned its back on the people of Delta State.”

He maintained that it is common knowledge to all that the present ruling People’s Democratic Party – PDP in Delta has failed woefully in bestowing credible and visionary leadership to drive the yearnings of the people. That in all development indices, Delta State under PDP cannot compete with neighbouring States in education, agriculture and quality infrastructure.

“This is a big shame for a State that had been a pace setter, first with our sister Edo, as Bendel, and even as Delta State since 1991. Delta State is the highest receiver of Federal allocation and 13 per cent derivation, yet, the State is also the second most indebted State in the country. The seemingly chaotic socio-political and economic environment in Delta State requires a leader with the necessary skills and knowledge, to work with a qualified team to address the systemic bottlenecks that have hindered the development of the State.

“This is the time to terminate the ill-conceived Okowa dynasty. So I ask you all here and every Deltan, wherever they may be right now, every resident, both indigenes and non-indigenes in Delta North, Delta South and Delta Central to get ready to work, get ready to fight for our dear state and get ready to win on the 11th of March 2023. The DPS stated.

Nnabuife pledged the readiness of the APC administration in the State to establish a strong, resilient, inclusive and prosperous economy that generates opportunity, jobs and wealth, while lifting the poor out of poverty, through the implementation of people-oriented programmes and policies.

“Our vision is to make the State a model for others. We are going to bring new ideas and innovative policy solutions, under a government that gives the people a sense of belonging. These we have summed up in our ‘EDGE to BAND’ plan.

He said his APC emphasis would be on human capital development, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, housing and other labour-intensive interventions, which are core on the Party agenda for the State. And that they are going to engage with vigour on all fronts and build a brand-new Delta.

“APC government will deliberately create an enabling environment for industries and manufacturing, establish technology hubs, set up small businesses, loan guarantee schemes, and promote skills acquisition and set up Career Development Centres for Deltans.

“Our governmemt will guarantee the rights of women and youth and invest their unique energies to drive social and economic development in the state. We will initiate a youth development programme that moves them away from the hopelessness of today, connect them to creative endeavours and generate energy for honourable work.

“We will also be making aggressive investments in modern infrastructure capable of opening up the total economic energies of our people, we will lift the State out of a mono-economic dependency by launching diversification into tech and business incubation. The Delta APC Governorship candidate stated in his inauguration speech

While urging all party faithful/ members to familiarize themselves with the EDGE to BAND plan to make their job easier, Nnabuife disclosed that their task is to get the message to the grassroots, using the various tools at their disposal to get to every potential voter out there. He encouraged all to work in synergy with every group within and outside the party for the single goal of making APC victorious at both the federal and State levels.

Hon Nnabuife, who urged all aspirants who were not successful in their bid for the party ticket in the primaries to support the party and the Campaign Council, that in the coming days, weeks and months they would all pass through sleepless nights to ensure that the APC emerge victorious in all the elections in the State. That for him, unity and sense of purpose of party members is vital to victory.

While congratulating all the distinguished men and women selected to serve the party in the Governorship Campaign Council, the APC Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government noted that the task ahead may appear intimidating but collectively they shall overcome.

“The movement to liberate the State is a collective one, and not about APC members alone, but all Deltans. I, therefore, call on all Deltans, irrespective of party platform, who love this State to join hands with us to liberate, rebuild and reinvigorate our dear State. This is a responsibility we owe the present old and young generations and generations yet unborn. We must not fail in making Delta State a better place than we met it.” He added.

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]ge may be a number but life is certainly a battle. And if the life is that of the urbane and personable,the personal Aide to Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi(Hon. Henry Mordi aka Ojokojo),then life is not only a battle–it is a full blown war.Ever since he adorned himself as a soldier for good,he has had no reprieve from the unrelenting forces of evil. He is caught in the vortex of the eternal battle between good and evil.

Indeed, to those who know him up close and personal, Ojokojo is an enigma: humble,self-effacing,fashion mogul,efficient by nature, diligent, always thinking about things he needs to accomplish or how to get ahead on his next assignment,a complete Libra,if you care to assess him by his Zodiac sign. But in plain terms, he is a case of a man who set out to always make a difference wherever he found himself. Not the kind of difference other men pursue to grandstand, but the type that impacts humanity and makes life easier for people. And of this, his track record is unassailable. A look back at his trajectory gives a chronicle of exemplary service to his community and a profile of pure patriotism from an individual.

Hon.Henry Mordi aka Ojokojo is the quintessential leader and gentleman. He is the embodiment of cerebral articulation, the essence of unparalleled philanthropy, the epitome of intellection and breathtaking simplicity, the personification of undiluted humanness, the perfect example of leadership symbolism, the paragon of idealism, the soul of humanity, the heart of warrior, the perfect

Ojokojo is celebrating his birthday today and to put the epochal celebration in proper perspective, he attained the midpoint of midlife at the exciting peak and the proper prime of his mercurial powers where, poised like the bronzed champion, glowing flamboyantly in the golden flame of his decade, prepares himself to capture and conquer arguably, the one ultimate laurel for which his superlative gifts and brilliance clamour to be manifestly celebrated with maximum political aplomb woven into the matrix of an intrepid homogeneous ubiquity.

A true brother,elegant,handsome,dark and unblemished in the magisterial lithe and athleticism of folkloric Kings and heroes,with clear, unfettered, excellent diction and oratory,his brilliant smile like sparkling sun radiating from crystal clear eyes and embellished by the clean-shaven glistening scalp. Ojokojo is down to earth and corporate-smart, from the various experiences of home-bred grooming, ivy league sojourns in first class institutions and the inspirational influence and unparalleled, unquantifiable tutelage from the grand master himself,Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, Ojokojo is an accomplished technocrat, politician and grassroots mobilizer on his own merit.

A man of immense mettle and completely detribalized human being with a profound depth of character, whose humility, devoid of discrimination, embraces all and sundry, he soars like an eagle and exudes reverence and integrity. A pragmatic leader full of benevolence, he gives hope to the hopeless, Job to the jobless and welfare and succor to the poor and needy. To everyone who crosses his path, he is a light. He is a friend to all,a helper to many and a visionary man bubbling with the ideals of entrenching a united, peaceful, harmonious vision for his community and the world. Honest, Transparent, Dependable, uncomplicated and full of wisdom, Hon. Henry Mordi aka Ojokojo can change you effortlessly, with his word.

Brother, though even the sun will one day run out of fuel, our love for you shall last forever. we thank God each and every day for giving us a brother like you. On your birthday, we want to thank you for being the best brother, friend anyone could ever hope for.You are such a great brother in the world because you are so loving, caring, protective, and supportive.Your legendary generosity and willingness to do good at all times is documented in the hearts of millions.That is why on your birthday, You deserves a toast and song, “Happy birthday to you…” Above all, You deserves a prayer from everyone who is on the side of truth in the eternal battle between truth and falsehood.
Happy birthday to the regent,Ojokojo-Burger!

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) sounds the whistle to Kick-start campaigns for the 2023 general elections last Wednesday, September 28, 2022 the Delta State House of Assembly aspirant for the Oshimili North Constituency on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Dr Chuks Okonji (Omelora) says he will play by the rules with Party-based campaigns.

The House of Assembly hopeful who spoke in an interview with newsmen on Thursday in Asaba, said as he seeks election through the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), he would think more on providing solutions to some of the issues that have bedeviled the people of his Oshimili North Constituency.

Omelora who is a big property developer and Hotelier, said the campaign will be tailored towards getting the people to have the confidence to come out to vote in the general elections, because this coming election our people are no longer voting parties as usual rather Nigerians are voting on personal report cards of each aspirants.

“There has been general apathy because of the introduction of guns into the system prior to this time.

“Our campaign is going to be strictly tailored towards getting the people to have the confidence to come out, and that those who used to carry gun, the law will not let them carry guns to steal ballot boxes any more”, he said.

He stressed that what this translates into, is that “we have to go back to the people like we have always done to bring them out”.

Omelora said the provision of the Electoral Act has made it clear on the issue of snatching and stealing of ballot boxes and other corrupt practices, saying it is now a thing of the past, and that campaigns and winning elections should be based on relationship with the people and what you would do for them.

On the expectations from the security agencies during the campaign, the House of Assembly hopeful said looking at the law establishing them, they are supposed to stick by their rules of engagement.

“What we expect them to do, the security agencies, should be professional enough to ensure they protect the materials, get them to the various points around the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria and make sure nobody is intimated, see to it that the electoral personnel are strictly protected and the electorate also.

“And deal decisively with those who feel that the old ways should be continued. If they do that, it means there is going to be neutrality”, he submitted.

By: Ben Nwoko

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Delta State House of Assembly aspirant for the Oshimili North Constituency on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),Dr Chuks Okonji (Omelora),has commended teachers in Nigeria for their role in nation-building as they join their counterparts to celebrate World Teachers’ Day 2022.

In a statement released by him, on Thursday in Asaba, the House of Assembly aspirant said that teachers were the bedrock of the development of any nation as no other profession can metamorphose without the input of teachers.

Sir Okonji stressed the importance to contribute to teaching as a society, emphasizing that we invest in teachers as a state.

He said: “Generations owe innovation to teachers because they play a vital role in forming the society. They nurture and shape young minds, keeping them driven in their early exploration of life. They go above and beyond for little or nothing, and they deserve to be celebrated.

“We all need to become a society that contributes to teaching, regardless our discipline. Teachers ought to wear their title with pride, and they deserve support from all quarters. Frankly, we do not have enough of teachers, and this raises the concern of who will teach the next generation”

“So today as we celebrate our teachers, do something special for a teacher you know, reach out to your teachers whom you can find and tell them how special they are. The gift and excitement for them will not be what you bring, but who you have become”

“As you celebrate this day, I congratulate you all our dear teachers and look forward to a more rewarding engagement between the government and teachers in Delta,” Omelora stated.

By: Ben Nwoko

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Delta State House of Assembly aspirant for the Oshimili North Constituency  on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),Dr Chuks Okonji (Omelora), has called for continued national integration as Nigeria marks her 62 independence. He congratulate all Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Independence Day anniversary and pray that our country will continue to exist in peace and unity, with continuous development across the nation.

He said that at this point in our collective history, democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. All Nigerians should see today, the occasion of our nation’s 62nd  Anniversary, as an opportunity to redefine what really constitutes “the Nigerian dream.” We must rally around this dream and support leaders who are capable, competent and prepared to realise this dream for all Nigerians.

All of us must not neglect to participate in politics by leaving the political choices to only the politicians and manipulative elements who choose to invoke religious, ethnic and geo-political sentiments to impose leadership that is only supported for the purpose of serving the interests of those who put them in office.

As Nigerians, we must re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals of defining our personal interests in line with the realisation of our national objectives. Our national objectives should be to build a united, peaceful, economically strong and internationally respected nation, with a robust military, a well-motivated workforce, ambitious youth and fulfilled citizens.
“On a day such as this, it is imperative to call for a shift in the attitude and ideology of Nigeria and Nigerians as we must, as a country and as a people, exhibit the determination to tame and eliminate factors that keep the country down or retard her progress.

“The experts who at, independence in 1960, predicted that Nigeria would within its first two decades of independence become an economic giant did not make any mistakes because all the indices pointed in that direction for the nation. Over the years the dream has been derailed by the actions and inactions of both the elite and the ordinary people in the country.

“By now, we should have realized our mistakes and know that our present situation is far from what our country was destined for. It is high time we all decided that we will forget mundane issues such as ethnicity and focus on issues that unite the country, become our brother’s keeper, be law abiding and protect public property more than we protect our own.

While it is important for those in government to initiate progressive, innovative and problem solving policies, programmes and projects, particularly those that will uplift the poor in the society and create a more egalitarian society, the Nigerian people should also be ready to give maximum, patriotic and solid support for the success of the initiatives, and to demand accountability, transparency and sincerity of purpose from government.

“This is a time for all of us, citizens, to take a deep introspective look into how and why the South-East Asian countries that were in worse situation than our’s in the 60s and 70s have turned the fortune of their masses around, while things are worse for us.

“Pondering over this question will help us agree that the common point we should all subscribe to now is the one that will enable us work collectively and individually towards breaking the shackles that have limited our country.

“I firmly believe that if the economy of the country improves, most of the ills plaguing the nation like insecurity, youth unemployment, collapse of infrastructure and moral decay will disappear and a modern Nigeria will emerge as the real giant of Africa.

“I congratulate Nigerians that despite our many challenges, we have managed to remain together as a socio-political entity as we journey towards national discovery.

“I also congratulate Nigerians on the successful enthronement of democracy as a model of government in Nigeria and the role our country has played in the defence of democratic ideals around Africa.”

Nigerians should not allow government officials and politicians to continue manipulating them in pursuit of narrow interests. It is only manipulation that will allow voters to ignore the competence, experience, suitability and temperament of aspirants for public office and rather focus on where they come from and how they worship their God.

Today, as we celebrate our 62nd Independence Anniversary, Nigerians should vow that the leader who will lead the country when it is celebrating its 63th anniversary (2023) must be one who would have set this country on the path of genuine socio-economic development and political greatness.

Nigerians, we must not be complacent. Voters should be ready at all times to intervene when government starts to derail from our national objectives. Voters should intervene when government places personal and group interests above national interests. Never again, must we allow leaders who behave as emperors, maximum rulers or messiahs and their cabals to seize control of our government and its machinery.

With a vigilant citizenry that is well-informed and involved in monitoring government activities, officials and programmes, the prospect of good governance and improved standards of living for all Nigerians will be guaranteed.

Again, Happy Independence Day to my good people of Oshimili North Constituency, Deltans and my fellow Nigerians.

Sir Dr. Felix Chuks Okonji (Omelora)

By: Benson Nwoko

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Concerned Citizens of Ibusa have backed the aspirant for the Oshimili North State Constituency of Delta State on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),Sir(Dr) Chuks Okonji (Omelora),to represent the constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly in next year’s election.

The concern citizens of Ibusa, led by Dr Tony Ugo, who visited him in Lagos, said they believed Sir (Dr) Chuks Okonji (Omelora) is not only purposeful, but also humane and selfless servant that can fit into the shoes of our outgoing Lawmaker Extraordinaire, Hon. Pat Ajudua who has been historically phenomenal in her approach to leadership and proactive representation . They also described Omelora as a grassroots politician and seasoned administrator whom they described as a man that has the interest of the people at heart.

According to them, they want the best and brightest among Ibusa sons to represent them in leadership positions come 2023.“It is an aberration for barely lettered and incompetent people to aspire for leadership positions in a society where we have countless capable and prepared hands. Time was when the brightest among us took the back seats on issues pertaining to governance. The fad across most modern day societies is simply to allow people with the required mental and intellectual power to lead them.
“The call become necessary because right now, what the Oshimili North State Constituency needs is a pragmatic and realistic  politician that feels the pains, yearnings and aspirations of all in the constituency.

“Omelora is a big property developer and Hotelier  and among all the contestants from Oshimili North Constituency , He is the only one that has employed over fifty staff of Oshimili North indigenes  in  his companies. We need a man with good heart and wealth of experience to give us a quality and robust representation that will ensure dividends of democracy, which Omelora represents and stands for.
“We are ready to go to the length and breadth of Oshimili North Constituency to ensure that Omelora wins the general election come 2023.”

“The more lettered and competent a leader is, the higher his chances of providing solutions to problems confronting his people. The difference between the advanced society and the third world nations is simply in the calibre and quality of people they choose or elect as leaders,” they said.

Sir(Dr) Chuks Okonji (Omelora), without doubt symbolises and embodies the true representative that Oshimili North is in dire need of. It bears repeating that, this gentleman has the required character traits to turn things around through what he calls innovative parliamentary representation if given the opportunity to represent the good people of Oshimili North constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly,” the group added.

Omelora, who thanked the concerned citizens of Ibusa for visiting him after he made his intention known to join the 2023 race into the Delta State House of Assembly, expressed his intention to deliver the dividends of democracy to residents of the constituency.