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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.

Pastor Idowu Okeze Hosts Grand Igbuzo Praise Night 2025

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Igbuzo town was aglow with spiritual fervour and celebration as the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation successfully hosted the highly anticipated Igbuzo Praise Night 2025, a landmark worship gathering widely described as one of the biggest and most transformative praise events in the state.

The spirit-filled programme took place at the St. Thomas’s College Compound, Umueze Farm Road, Igbuzo, drawing a massive crowd of worshippers from within and outside the community. The night was marked by intense praise, heartfelt worship, and an atmosphere charged with divine presence.

The event was hosted under the distinguished leadership of Pastor Idowu Daniel Okeze, the Chief Host and a renowned cleric and philanthropist whose commitment to spiritual revival and community development continues to positively impact lives in Igbuzo and beyond.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Okeze said the Praise Night was conceived as a divine assignment to liberate Igbuzo from negative spiritual influences and to seek God’s mercy, peace, and restoration upon the town.
“This gathering is about salvation, renewal, and a divine encounter for our people,” Pastor Okeze stated, emphasizing the need for unity, prayer, and total dependence on God for the progress of the community.

This year’s edition featured outstanding gospel ministrations from celebrated artistes, including the inspirational Ada Zion, the electrifying Lola Solarin, and other anointed ministers whose performances kept the congregation in deep worship and thanksgiving. The event also witnessed powerful exhortations and prayers from respected guest ministers such as Barr. Pastor Ben Okoji, Bishop Chiendu James, and the Chief Host himself, Pastor Idowu Daniel Okeze, alongside his wife, Pastor Vivian Okeze.

Adding colour and excitement to the memorable night, popular entertainer Comrade Vincent Ollima thrilled the audience as the Master of Ceremony, seamlessly guiding the flow of activities with humour and professionalism.

According to the organisers, the Igbuzo Praise Night 2025 was declared “a night of signs, wonders, and miracles,” reaffirming the foundation’s mission to strengthen faith, inspire hope, and foster unity among the people.

Indeed, residents and visitors who attended the programme testified to experiencing the overwhelming presence of God, as hearts were lifted, destinies touched, and the name of the Lord glorified. As praises echoed across Igbuzo, the community rejoiced,thanksgiving leaving behind a night that will be remembered as a defining moment of spiritual revival.

Christmas Cheer in Igbuzo: Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation Reaches over 2,000 Households

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The spirit of Christmas came alive in Igbuzo as the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation brought smiles and relief to thousands of families through a large-scale humanitarian outreach that touched lives across the community.
On Thursday, December 23, 2025, no fewer than 2,000 households in Igbuzo received Christmas food packages comprising 25kg bags of rice and groundnut oil, distributed across the town’s 10 villages. The gesture was aimed at ensuring that vulnerable and underprivileged residents were not left out of the joy of the festive season.
Making the presentation on behalf of the Foundation, Pastor Idowu Okeze explained that the initiative was targeted at widows, the elderly, people living with disabilities, market women, and other vulnerable groups within the community. He noted that the outreach has become a long-standing tradition of the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation.
“What we are doing today is part of the Foundation’s commitment to giving back to society,” Pastor Okeze said. “For many years now, it has been our custom to reach out to households in Igbuzo during festive periods. This year, we deliberately selected over 2,000 households across the 10 villages to share food items and spread love.”
He added that beneficiaries were carefully identified based on age and personal circumstances, with volunteers going as far as visiting homes, churches, and remote corners of the community to ensure no one was left behind.
“Widows, the aged, and people living with disabilities are among those benefiting today. We are also extending this love to orphanage homes in Igbuzo, because Christmas is about sharing and compassion,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Madam Jane Ofili, a widow from Ogbeowele, disclosed that about 500 widows benefited from the programme. She expressed deep gratitude to the Foundation, describing the gesture as timely and impactful.
“I sincerely thank God for this gift from the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation,” she said. “It will greatly cushion the effect of hunger among our people this Christmas. We received about 100 packs, which we will distribute among widows in our villages.”
Madam Ofili also commended the donor for remembering the less privileged, while calling on those with means to emulate the gesture. “There are people who have resources but forget the poor. I pray God blesses everyone who chooses to help the underprivileged,” she added.
The outreach, which was conducted peacefully, witnessed the presence of community elders and traditional chiefs, who applauded the Foundation for its consistent commitment to humanitarian service.
In an interview with Newsbreeze, the Foundation’s Coordinator, Dr. Pat Adigwe, described the exercise as part of its annual humanitarian intervention aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable residents in Igbuzo.
Over the years, the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation has remained a beacon of hope, touching the lives of widows, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups, and reinforcing the true meaning of Christmas—love, kindness, and shared humanity. 🎄

Pastor Idowu Okeze: The Rising Light Transforming Igbuzo

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Igbuzo town is presently in deep mourning following the passing of an illustrious son and political titan, Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, whose death has been widely described as the fall of an Iroko tree. His departure has left many citizens asking painful questions about leadership, continuity, and political replacement.
Yet, history reminds us that Igbuzo has always been blessed with exceptional personalities. From time immemorial, the town has produced men and women who rise in moments of challenge to serve, uplift, and give hope to the people. In this season of grief, many residents are drawing encouragement from the growing impact of Pastor Idowu Okeze, whose emergence has brought renewed hope and practical support to the community development.
Though not a politician, Pastor Okeze has, through consistent service and compassion, demonstrated leadership that rivals—and in many cases surpasses—that of some political office holders. His contributions to the development of Igbuzo are visible and far-reaching. These include the provision of solar street lights, Transformers, empowerment programmes for youths and women, support for widows and the less privileged, Construction of roads, renovation of schools, provision of laboratory equipment, Scholarship and the empowerment of small-scale businesses, among many other interventions.
As Igbuzo mourns the loss of Senator Nwaoboshi, the town is also preparing for a season of renewed upliftment. On December 29, 2025, Pastor Idowu Okeze is set to empower Igbuzo people with various items and cash support, further demonstrating his commitment to easing the pains of the community and taking the town to the next level.
In addition, on December 27, 2025, Pastor Okeze will host a Mega Night of Praise, expected to be one of the most transformative worship events in the state. The programme is anticipated to bring together people from far and near in an atmosphere of thanksgiving, prayer, and spiritual renewal.
In the midst of sorrow, many in Igbuzo now view Pastor Idowu Okeze as a God-sent blessing—an emerging Iroko tree whose selfless service is helping to heal wounds, restore hope, and reposition the town for greater progress. While the memory of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi remains evergreen, the people of Igbuzo are drawing strength from new leadership rooted in compassion, service, and genuine love for the community.

Nigeria Mourns a Giant of the Game as Football Icon Lawrence Okonji Passes On at 83

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Death has taken a revered figure, but history will forever preserve his name. He was more than a legend; he was an institution whose life embodied excellence, sacrifice, and service. In his prime, he inspired generations, broke barriers, and set standards that redefined his field. With his passing, the nation mourns not just the loss of a man, but the departure of an era whose impact will echo long after the final whistle of life.
Nigeria has lost one of its most revered football legends with the death of Elder Lawrence Onweazu Okonji, a celebrated striker, coach, motivator, father, traditional title holder, nation builder, and philanthropist whose life and career touched countless lives. He died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 83.

Fondly known as the “Daddy of Soccer” and the “Goal Sniffer,” Elder Okonji was among the pioneers of Nigerian football, leaving an indelible mark as a prolific goal scorer, national team player, and later as a highly respected coach who groomed talents across Nigeria and beyond.

Born in 1943 in Abakaliki and hailing originally from Ibusa in Delta State, Okonji’s love for football began at the tender age of five. By 16, he had launched his professional career with Ike Football Club, Abakaliki. He attended St. Theresa’s School, Abakaliki, and later earned a Diploma in Sports (Football Coaching) from the University of Physical Education in Budapest, Hungary.

During his illustrious playing career, Elder Okonji featured for several notable clubs, including Ike FC Abakaliki, Aba Giant Killers (now Enyimba FC), the Eastern Nigeria Team, Port Harcourt Red Devils (now Sharks FC), Ports Authority FC Lagos, and ECN (now NEPA FC Lagos). He also represented Lagos State at the 1973 National Sports Festival.

At the international level, he was a key member of the Green Eagles between 1965 and 1973, playing alongside legends such as Anthony Igwe, Joseph Erico, Peter Anieke, Paul Hamilton, and Sebastian Brodricks. He featured in historic matches against renowned foreign sides including Queens Park Rangers of England and Fortuna Düsseldorf of Germany.

Following his retirement from active football, Okonji seamlessly transitioned into coaching, where he continued to shape Nigerian football. He coached teams such as NEPA FC, Guinness FC Lagos, Lagos Academicals, Requins de l’Atlantique FC of Benin Republic, and Delta Force (formerly DSC FC). One of the most symbolic moments of his career occurred on June 6, 1973, when he scored the final goal ever recorded at the Lagos City Stadium, Onikan, during a friendly match between NEPA and Stationery Stores.

Beyond football, Elder Okonji retired from NEPA in 1989 as a Principal Executive Officer in the Personnel Department and officially stepped away from coaching in 1997. He later ventured into business, founding Okonji Enterprises with his late wife, Justina Okonji.

A respected community leader, he was honoured with a chieftaincy title in his hometown of Ibusa and remained a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and grassroots football development. Over the years, he mentored several players who went on to become household names, including Adokiye Amiesimaka, Alloy Agu, and Waidi Akanni.

Elder Lawrence Okonji’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy of excellence, discipline, mentorship, and service to Nigerian football will endure for generations to come.

2025 IBUSA SOCCER COMPETITION KICKS OFF TODAY AS TOURNAMENT MARKS 40 YEARS OF CONSISTENCY

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The much-anticipated 2025 Ibusa Annual Football Competition kicks off today, Wednesday, December 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., setting the ancient town of Ibusa (Igbuzo) agog with excitement as the tournament celebrates 40 years of uninterrupted existence and community unity.

The opening match promises fireworks as Ogbeowele FC squares off against Anyalobum FC, a thrilling repeat of the 2024 final. While Ogbeowele appears well-prepared ahead of the clash, Anyalobum has, in recent times, proven to be a formidable side and a hard nut to crack. Football lovers are therefore assured of an exciting and competitive encounter as both teams battle for early supremacy. Best wishes have been extended to both sides for a successful and injury-free match.

Established in 1985, the Ibusa Annual Football Competition has grown from a modest grassroots initiative into one of the longest-running and most consistent community football tournaments in Delta State. The competition was founded by the visionary sports enthusiast and community patriot, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, whose passion for youth development and unity laid the foundation for what has become a cherished tradition in Igbuzo.

Over the past four decades, the tournament has transcended sports, evolving into a powerful platform for community bonding, youth engagement, and cultural reunion, particularly during the Christmas and New Year festivities when sons and daughters of Ibusa return home from far and near.

The 2025 edition is especially historic, marking 40 years of resilience, continuity, and grassroots sports excellence—a rare achievement in community-driven sports administration. This year’s competition is proudly supported by North West Petroleum Ltd, MTN, and the sons and daughters of Ibusa, whose collective backing reflects the strong sense of ownership and pride attached to the tournament.

While Mr. Kwasa Amatokwu remains the pillar of the competition, he is strongly supported by a dedicated Sports Executive Committee led by Haji Chukwuyem Ojeih, alongside the unwavering cooperation of the people of Ibusa. Together, their commitment has ensured that the tournament has survived changing times, economic challenges, and administrative transitions.

As the ball rolls off today, the celebration goes beyond football. It is a tribute to 40 years of perseverance, unity, and vision, and a reaffirmation of Ibusa’s enduring spirit. What was once dismissed as an experiment has become a respected institution and a model of consistency for grassroots sports across the state.

Indeed, Igbuzo proudly celebrates Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu and the enduring legacy he has bequeathed to present and future generations, as the town once again rallies around the beautiful game.

HON. FRANK N. ESENWAH: SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR REPRESENTATION IN OSHIMILI NORTH

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

Hon. Frank Esenwah

Over the past two years, the Member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank N. Esenwah, has distinguished himself through purposeful, people-centered representation, earning widespread trust and admiration from his constituents.

Across Oshimili North, residents agree that the constituency has never experienced such responsive and impactful leadership. On the floor of the House, Hon. Esenwah remains a consistent and vocal participant in legislative proceedings, contributing actively to debates and playing key roles in the passage of bills aimed at advancing development and strengthening good governance in Delta State.

Trust, political observers note, is earned through integrity, dedication, and consistency. Hon. Esenwah has embodied these qualities, aligning his campaign promises with concrete action. Since assuming office, he has rekindled public confidence in governance by ensuring that the voices and concerns of his constituents are not only heard but translated into meaningful outcomes.

His leadership approach is inclusive and community-focused, cutting across all segments of society. Youths, women, elders, traders, and students attest to his accessibility and open-door policy. Under his stewardship, notable interventions have been recorded in critical sectors such as education, youth empowerment, community infrastructure, rural electrification, healthcare outreach, agriculture, and sustained grassroots engagement.

These accomplishments are tangible and widely felt, reflecting practical solutions that have improved the quality of life for families across towns and villages within the constituency.

Within the legislative arena, Hon. Esenwah has earned a reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking lawmaker. He consistently supports progressive legislation, contributes constructively to policy formulation, and advocates for initiatives that prioritize rural development and inclusive growth.

Beyond legislative duties, he maintains a strong presence in his constituency. Unlike leaders who appear only during election periods, Hon. Esenwah remains actively engaged year-round—participating in town hall meetings, consulting traditional institutions, engaging youth and community groups, and promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.

At a time when politics often fuels division, Hon. Frank Esenwah has emerged as a unifying force, fostering dialogue, building consensus, and encouraging inclusive decision-making.

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the people of Oshimili North are not just selecting a representative but affirming the kind of leadership they desire—one founded on trust, continuity, and sustained progress. Across wards, communities, and villages, one message continues to echo clearly.

Hon. Frank N. Esenwah has earned the trust of Oshimili North, and the people are ready to renew his mandate.