The people of Igbuzo Kingdom, friends, associates, and admirers join the rest of humanity in celebrating a distinguished monarch, scholar, statesman, and custodian of culture, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, on the occasion of his birthday.

Your Royal Majesty’s life has remained a shining example of wisdom, humility, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to the peace, progress, and cultural heritage of Igbuzo Kingdom. As a renowned academic and traditional ruler, you have continued to provide purposeful leadership, fostering unity, development, and harmony among your people.

Your reign has strengthened the bonds of brotherhood within the kingdom while promoting the rich traditions and values that make Igbuzo a respected and admired community. Through your fatherly guidance, intellectual depth, and dedication to community development, you have inspired generations and contributed immensely to the advancement of Anioma land and Delta State.

As you join the nonagenarian, we pray that Almighty God grants you continued good health, divine wisdom, strength, peace, and many more fruitful years on the throne of our forefathers.

May your reign continue to bring prosperity, unity, and progress to Igbuzo Kingdom.
For and on behalf of my family Happy Birthday, Your Royal Majesty.

Nnam Obuzor oza ji ani Igbuzo
Oza Akatakpo
Oza Mgbengbe

Long Live the Obuzor of Igbuzo! Long Live Igbuzo Kingdom!

HRH Uwolo Amechi Nwaenie
Uwolo Igbuzo

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

ABUJA – The Grassroots Newspaper Publishers Network has criticised former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, over his reported advocacy for the return of fuel subsidy, describing the position as inconsistent with his earlier stance on the controversial policy.

The Publishers argued that Atiku had supported the removal of fuel subsidy before and during the 2023 presidential election campaign, when he described the subsidy regime as fraudulent and advocated redirecting the funds to critical sectors of the economy.

The Grassroots Newspaper Publishers further noted that the removal of fuel subsidy enjoyed support from major presidential candidates during the 2023 election, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who all acknowledged the need to address the economic challenges associated with the subsidy regime.

According to the publishers, any attempt by opposition politicians to now advocate a return to fuel subsidy could be interpreted as a reversal of positions previously canvassed before the electorate.

They maintained that the removal of subsidy has increased revenues available to the federal, state and local governments, giving many sub-national governments greater capacity to meet salary obligations, execute infrastructure projects and provide essential services.

The group acknowledged that subsidy removal initially brought significant economic hardship to Nigerians but argued that the reform has strengthened government revenues and improved the financial capacity of states. It further contended that the increased allocations accruing to states from the Federation Account have enabled many state governments to meet their salary obligations more effectively, compared with periods under previous administrations when several states reportedly struggled to pay workers’ salaries and pensions.

The publishers also accused opposition parties of relying heavily on criticism of the Tinubu administration without offering Nigerians what they described as convincing alternative economic policies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They said Nigerians deserve campaigns based on concrete plans for economic growth, employment generation, security, infrastructure and improved living standards rather than what they described as politically motivated promises.

While acknowledging concerns over the hardship associated with subsidy removal, the publishers said the Federal Government should continue to strengthen palliatives and social protection programmes to cushion the impact on vulnerable Nigerians.

The group declared that Nigerians are now more politically conscious and would carefully scrutinise promises made by politicians ahead of the 2027 elections.
It urged opposition politicians to present practical alternatives rather than simply seeking to reverse existing economic reforms.

The Publishers further appealed to Nigerians to support policies they believe are delivering measurable improvements, arguing that President Tinubu deserves constructive support where his administration’s programmes are producing positive results.
They stressed that political opposition remains important to democracy but should be based on constructive criticism, accountability and credible alternatives capable of improving the lives of Nigerians.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the publishers said issues surrounding fuel subsidy, economic reforms, revenue allocation, job creation and the welfare of citizens would remain central to Nigeria’s political debate.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The Delta State Contributory Health Commission has honoured the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Hon. Chief Innocent Esewezie, with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his outstanding commitment to expanding healthcare access and promoting health insurance coverage among residents.

The award was presented on Tuesday by the Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Hon. Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, during the commissioning of the ultra-modern Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital in Okpanam, a landmark healthcare project executed by the Oshimili North Local Government under the leadership of Chief Esewezie.

The recognition followed the successful registration of hundreds of residents into the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme through the intervention of the Oshimili North administration, a move aimed at ensuring citizens have access to affordable and sustainable healthcare services.

Presenting the award, Dr. Akpoveta commended Chief Esewezie for demonstrating visionary leadership in the health sector by not only providing world-class healthcare infrastructure but also ensuring that residents are protected through health insurance coverage.

According to him, the Oshimili North model has become a shining example of how local government administrations can effectively channel available resources into projects that directly improve the welfare of the people.
He urged other local government chairmen across Delta State and Nigeria to emulate the achievements of Oshimili North, noting that greater participation in the contributory health insurance scheme would accelerate the state’s drive towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

The commitment demonstrated by the Oshimili North Local Government Chairman is commendable. Healthcare goes beyond building hospitals; it also involves ensuring that people can access medical services without financial hardship. This is exactly what Chief Esewezie has achieved, Dr. Akpoveta stated.
The presentation of the Award of Excellence attracted applause from dignitaries, government officials, traditional rulers, healthcare professionals, community leaders and residents who gathered to witness the historic commissioning ceremony.

The newly inaugurated Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital has been described as one of the most modern healthcare facilities established by a local government council in Delta State. The facility is equipped with modern medical equipment designed to provide quality healthcare services to residents of Okpanam and neighbouring communities.

Speaking on the significance of the project, APC chieftain, Chief Kizito Ijeh, said the successful completion of the hospital demonstrates the practical impact of economic reforms and prudent management of public resources. He praised Chief Esewezie for translating available funds into visible and people-oriented development projects that directly benefit the people.

Adding to the significance of the occasion was the launch of a six-day free medical and surgical outreach programme organised by the Oshimili North Local Government.
The initiative is providing residents with free medical consultations, treatment, medications and surgical procedures, particularly for vulnerable and low-income citizens.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North, Mr. Austin Nnabuife, popularly known as Ojegbue, described the dual achievement of constructing a world-class healthcare facility and expanding health insurance coverage as a major milestone in grassroots healthcare development. He noted that the projects reflect the administration’s commitment to improving the well-being of residents and ensuring that quality healthcare becomes accessible to all.

For Chief Esewezie, the Award of Excellence serves as recognition of a broader vision that combines healthcare infrastructure, medical outreach and health insurance protection to guarantee improved access to quality healthcare services for the people of Oshimili North.

The event marked yet another milestone in the council’s efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, promote preventive healthcare and improve the quality of life of residents across the local government area.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

OKPANAM – The ancient town of Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State came alive on Tuesday as political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, healthcare professionals, and residents thronged the community for the historic commissioning of the ultra-modern Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital.

The event, which turned the town into a carnival-like atmosphere, marked a major milestone in grassroots healthcare delivery and demonstrated the growing capacity of local government councils to execute multi-million-naira projects capable of transforming the lives of the people.
The hospital, conceived and completed by the Oshimili North Local Government Council under the leadership of Hon. Innocent Esewezie, was officially commissioned by Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D.

The ceremony also featured the launch of a comprehensive Free Medical Care Programme aimed at providing immediate healthcare services to residents of Okpanam and neighbouring communities.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori described the project as a clear reflection of his administration’s commitment to the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda, particularly in the area of meaningful development and sustainable healthcare delivery.

According to the governor, access to quality and affordable healthcare should not be determined by geographical location, stressing that the establishment of modern medical facilities within local communities would reduce the burden of long-distance travel and guarantee prompt medical attention for vulnerable citizens.
This project aligns directly with the core pillars of our M.O.R.E. Agenda. Access to quality and affordable healthcare should never be a luxury determined by location. By bringing modern medical facilities directly into our communities, we are ensuring that our people receive prompt and effective healthcare services when they need them most, he stated.
Governor Oborevwori commended Hon. Esewezie and the Oshimili North Council for successfully executing the project, noting that local government administrations remain the closest tier of government to the people and play a critical role in delivering development at the grassroots. He further praised the council for complementing the hospital project with a free medical care programme, emphasizing that infrastructure can only achieve its true purpose when accompanied by accessible and compassionate services.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, described the hospital as a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to improve the welfare and quality of life of residents.
He said a community could not truly prosper when its people lacked access to basic healthcare, adding that healthcare development extends beyond physical structures to include qualified personnel, modern equipment, healthcare financing, and programmes that directly benefit the people.

Esewezie announced the commencement of a six-day free medical outreach that would offer consultations, treatments, surgeries, dental services, and optical care to residents.
The council chairman also disclosed that 200 beneficiaries had been enrolled into the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme. According to him, 150 beneficiaries are members of the Oshimili North Security Watch, while 50 are autistic children and persons with special needs drawn from various communities within the local government area.
He revealed that part of the hospital facility had been dedicated to the care and support of children with special needs, reflecting the council’s commitment to inclusive and compassionate healthcare delivery.

The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, urged local government councils across the state to enroll more citizens into the health insurance scheme to improve access to quality healthcare services.
Also speaking, former Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, commended Hon. Esewezie for the visionary initiative, describing the hospital as a strategic investment in the health and well-being of the people of Oshimili North.
Okowa noted that local government councils across the state were increasingly making meaningful contributions to development through impactful projects and urged council chairmen to sustain the momentum.

Earlier, the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Michael Ogbolu, expressed appreciation to the Oshimili North Council for the project, recalling the challenges residents previously faced in accessing quality healthcare services.
According to the monarch, pregnant women, children, and elderly residents often travelled long distances to seek medical attention, a challenge that the new hospital is expected to address significantly.

For many residents, the commissioning of the Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital represents more than the unveiling of a healthcare facility; it symbolizes a new era of hope, improved healthcare access, and people-oriented governance in Oshimili North.

The event will be remembered as one of the most significant milestones in the history of the local government, proving that visionary leadership, prudent management of resources, and commitment to service can deliver transformative projects that positively impact communities.

Among the dignitaries who attended the colourful ceremony were High Chief Austin Izagbo, Chief Patrick Ukah, Oshimili North APC Chairman Chief Austin Obidi, Hon. Austin Nnabuife, Chief Fred Ajudua, Chief Elvis Okonji, Chief Lucky Abuah, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor Hon. Joe Ijeh, as well as several political leaders, community stakeholders, and government officials.

As applause filled the air and guests toured the state-of-the-art facility, one message stood out clearly: Oshimili North has taken a giant leap forward in healthcare development, and Hon. Innocent Esewezie has etched his name in the history books as the chairman who brought a modern cottage hospital to the people of Okpanam.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 
ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the review and reconstitution of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections, following concerns over perceived omissions and shortcomings in the initial composition.
The directive came shortly after the Presidency announced a 223-member campaign council, headed by former Zamfara State Governor, Abdul’aziz Yari, as Director-General.

Sources familiar with the development said the President ordered the review after senior members of the ruling party raised concerns over the exclusion of key stakeholders, experienced campaigners and influential political leaders from the initial list.
The concerns reportedly centred on the level of representation accorded various regions, the National Assembly and important organs and leaders of the APC.
Following the development, President Tinubu is said to have directed his Chief of Staff and other officials in the Presidency to work with the leadership of the National Assembly and the APC National Working Committee to review the structure and identify areas requiring adjustment.

The review is expected to produce a broader and more representative campaign team capable of bringing together major party leaders, political stakeholders and experienced campaigners as the APC begins preparations for the 2027 presidential election.

One of the major issues reportedly raised within the party was the absence of Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, from the initial list.
His omission attracted attention, particularly because of his position as one of the highest-ranking political office holders from the South-East, prompting questions over the region’s representation in the campaign structure.
The positions assigned to some National Assembly leaders also reportedly generated concerns among party stakeholders.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, was named Deputy Director-General for the Southern campaign, while Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, were assigned senior responsibilities.
Other National Assembly leaders, including Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and Deputy President of the Senate, Jibril Barau, were also given coordinating roles.
Some party members, however, reportedly felt that the initial arrangement did not sufficiently reflect the political and constitutional ranking of the leadership of the National Assembly.The proposed restructuring is therefore expected to address the concerns and ensure that the various political leaders are appropriately positioned within the campaign hierarchy.
Several experienced APC campaigners were also reportedly absent from the initial list.

Among them are former Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, who played a prominent role in the party’s 2023 presidential campaign, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who was also involved in stakeholder engagement during the 2023 campaign, was another notable omission.
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, who served as National Youth Coordinator during the previous presidential campaign, was also not included in the initial structure.

The planned rejig is expected to accommodate some of the omitted stakeholders and strengthen the campaign council’s regional, political and institutional representation.
The development underscores the APC’s efforts to consolidate its political structure and mobilise its leaders and supporters ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 

IBUSA – In a determined effort to curb recurring flooding in Ibusa and other parts of Oshimili North Local Government Area, the council has launched an intensive assessment of flood-prone communities and warned residents against activities that obstruct drainage channels and natural waterways.
The exercise was carried out jointly by the Oshimili North Local Government Council, the Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU), and the Councillor representing Ward 8, Hon. Ekene Okonkwo, following recent flooding incidents that left several homes submerged and displaced residents.

Leading the inspection team, the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Esewezie, visited affected locations, including a residence reportedly inundated by floodwaters as a result of blocked drainage systems and encroachment on natural water channels.
The team also inspected Zion Road and other flood flashpoints within the community where residents have continued to battle flooding caused by clogged gutters, indiscriminate waste disposal, and the construction of buildings on drainage routes.

Addressing residents during the exercise, Esewezie expressed concern over the impact of the flooding on families and businesses, assuring the people that the council would take decisive action to prevent a recurrence.
He condemned the practice of dumping refuse into drains and gutters, stressing that such actions obstruct water flow and increase the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.

The council chairman also warned property owners against erecting buildings, fences, and other structures on waterways, declaring that the administration would no longer tolerate violations that endanger lives and property.

According to him, individuals found responsible for obstructing drainage channels or engaging in activities that contribute to flooding would be sanctioned in accordance with the law.

Esewezie emphasized that the fight against flooding requires a collective approach, calling on residents, community leaders, and development associations to work together in maintaining clean and functional drainage systems across the local government area.

He assured affected residents that the council would promptly address the environmental challenges identified during the inspection and implement measures aimed at reducing the menace of flooding.
The chairman noted that the partnership between the local government and the ICDU underscores a shared commitment to finding lasting solutions to environmental and infrastructural challenges facing communities in Oshimili North.

The inspection ended with renewed appeals to residents to support government efforts by keeping drains free of refuse, observing proper waste disposal practices, and respecting designated waterways as part of ongoing efforts to create a safer and healthier environment for all.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom- Newsbreeze

The Presidency has appointed renowned Delta State politician, former Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), and Vice President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, as the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the newly constituted 108-member All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council.

The appointment, which has generated excitement among party faithful and political stakeholders across the South-South region, is being widely viewed as a strategic move aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilization and consolidating support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Olejeme, a respected APC chieftain and accomplished public administrator, is no stranger to national political assignments. She previously served as a member of the 2023 Presidential Campaign Council and the 2026 APC National Convention Planning Committee. She is also a former Board Chairman of Trustfund Pensions Plc and has earned recognition for her contributions to public service, philanthropy, women empowerment, and community development.

The Presidential Campaign Council was inaugurated with former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, as Director-General, while Governor Hope Uzodimma was appointed Secretary. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima will serve as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the council respectively.

Under the campaign structure, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke will coordinate activities with zonal directors across the six geopolitical zones. Other zonal coordinators include Senator Olushola Adeyeye for the South-West, Senator Uche Ekwunife for the South-East, Muntaqha Rabe for the North-West, Ahmed Muhammed Ketso for the North-Central, and Senator Sani Danladi for the North-East. Ms. Stella Okotete, Engineer Abdullahi Garba Ramat, and Audu Maikori will serve as Secretaries of the Election Planning Directorate.

Reacting to her appointment, Dr. Olejeme expressed profound appreciation to the Presidency, APC leadership and members of the Presidential Campaign Council for the confidence reposed in her, describing the assignment as both an honour and a call to greater service.

She pledged to deploy her experience and grassroots network to promote the objectives of the campaign council while deepening public support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the South-South region.

According to her, the assignment offers a unique opportunity to engage communities, women, youths, and other stakeholders in meaningful political participation and national development.
This appointment is not only a call to service but also an opportunity to further mobilize women, youths, and other critical stakeholders in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, she stated.

Dr. Olejeme described President Tinubu as a visionary and courageous leader whose commitment to national development continues to inspire confidence among Nigerians.
She noted that despite prevailing economic challenges, the administration’s reform programmes are beginning to yield positive results and lay the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity.

President Tinubu possesses the qualities of a humble yet determined leader. His administration’s reforms are beginning to yield positive results, laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and national development. His commitment to transforming Nigeria remains unwavering, she said.
The former NSITF Chairman also urged Nigerians to remain united and supportive of policies aimed at strengthening the economy, creating opportunities for citizens, and improving social welfare across the country.

She further prayed for God’s wisdom, guidance, strength, and good health for President Tinubu, expressing confidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda would ultimately deliver lasting benefits to Nigerians.

Meanwhile, members of the Grassroots Newspaper Publishers , where Dr. Olejeme serves as the Grand Matron, have welcomed the appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of her leadership qualities, grassroots appeal, and commitment to national development.
The publishers noted that her vast experience in public administration, philanthropy, political organization, and women empowerment places her in a strong position to coordinate campaign activities and mobilize support across the South-South geopolitical zone.

According to the group, Dr. Olejeme’s appointment is expected to energize grassroots structures, strengthen political engagement, and encourage greater participation of women and youths in the democratic process.

Political analysts have also hailed the development as a reflection of the APC’s determination to build a formidable grassroots network nationwide as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

Over the years, Dr. Olejeme has distinguished herself as a philanthropist, community leader, and advocate for social inclusion. Her appointment is therefore expected to further strengthen the APC’s presence in the South-South while reinforcing support for President Tinubu’s vision of a more prosperous, united, and progressive Nigeria.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 and took the bold decision to remove fuel subsidy, Nigerians have faced economic hardship and rising living costs. While many citizens continue to feel the effects of the reforms, it is important to place responsibility where it belongs and objectively assess the impact of the President’s policies.

The truth is that fuel subsidy had long been acknowledged as an unsustainable and corruption-ridden system. During the 2023 election campaigns, major presidential candidates agreed that the subsidy regime was a scam that drained public resources and would eventually have to be removed. President Tinubu merely implemented a decision that many experts and political leaders had already accepted as inevitable.

Despite the temporary pains associated with the reforms, there is growing evidence that the policy is yielding results. One of the most significant outcomes is the substantial increase in revenue accruing to states and local governments through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). Today, many state governments and local government councils receive allocations that are several times higher than what they received before the subsidy removal.

Before the current administration came into office, many state governments struggled to pay workers’ salaries and often relied on bank loans to fund basic government operations. In some states, salary arrears became a recurring issue, while development projects were abandoned due to lack of funds. Today, the situation has improved considerably, with most states paying salaries more regularly and embarking on various infrastructure projects.

This reality raises an important question: if states and local governments are receiving significantly more funds than before, why do many communities still lack good roads, potable water, quality healthcare facilities, and employment opportunities? Why are many rural areas still grappling with poor infrastructure and inadequate social services?

The answer lies not in Abuja but largely in the performance of state governors and local government chairmen, who are constitutionally responsible for many of the services that directly affect grassroots communities. Roads within communities, primary healthcare centres, rural electrification, markets, schools, and sanitation are areas where state and local governments play critical roles.

President Tinubu’s reforms have expanded the resources available to sub-national governments. The challenge now is for governors and local government chairmen to ensure that these resources are translated into meaningful development projects that improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Citizens deserve transparency and accountability regarding how increased allocations are being spent.

Rather than directing all blame at the President, Nigerians should also demand accountability from state and local government officials who now have greater financial capacity to address community needs. Development at the grassroots level depends largely on how effectively these funds are managed and invested.

The Tinubu administration has laid the foundation for fiscal reforms and increased government revenues. The next stage requires responsible leadership at the state and local government levels. Governors and local government chairmen must rise to the occasion by prioritizing projects that create jobs, improve infrastructure, and enhance the welfare of the people.

While the economic reforms may have brought short-term challenges, their long-term success will depend on how well state and local governments utilize the opportunities created by increased revenues. For millions of Nigerians at the grassroots, the expectation is simple: the benefits of these reforms must be felt in their daily lives through visible and sustainable development.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

IBUSA (IGBUZO) – Renowned community leader, cleric, and philanthropist, Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze, has distanced himself from reports circulating across Oshimili North Local Government Area and parts of Delta State alleging that he has endorsed a political candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a strongly worded statement, Pastor Okeze described the purported endorsement as false, unauthorized, and deliberately misleading, stressing that he remains non-partisan and has not endorsed any candidate or political party.

The clarification followed the circulation of publications suggesting that Pastor Okeze had thrown his support behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Hon. Ashinze Charles Obiodogwu.

According to Pastor Okeze, the NDC candidate merely paid him a Courtesy visit, just as candidates and representatives of other political parties have done in the course of engaging key stakeholders in Oshimili North.

He explained that Hon. Obiodogwu’s visit came shortly after the NDC candidate paid a courtesy call on the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty, before proceeding to meet with him.

“The visit was purely consultative and should not be misconstrued as a political endorsement,” Pastor Okeze stated.

He emphasized that he has not endorsed anybody , nor candidates of any political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Action Congress (AAC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Accord Party, or any other political platform.

The purported endorsement does not represent my views or position in any way. I urge the public to disregard and denounce such misleading publications, he said.

Pastor Okeze further reiterated his commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service, insisting that his interactions with political actors should never be interpreted as support for any individual or party.

The clarification is expected to put to rest speculation surrounding Pastor Okeze’s political stance as consultations and political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections in Delta State.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

Delta State – History was made on Saturday, August 15, 2026, as Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, commissioned Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM, a pioneering media establishment owned by renowned legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Tony Idigbe, marking the emergence of the first radio station owned by an Asaba indigene.
The station, strategically located in Asaba, Oshimili South Local Government Area, was unveiled during a colourful ceremony attended by traditional rulers, government officials, media executives, professionals, business leaders, friends and associates of the Idigbe family.

Representing Governor Oborevwori at the event, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Michael Osuoza, formally commissioned the station and described the investment as a major contribution to the media and socio-economic development of Delta State.
He noted that radio remains one of the most effective tools for information dissemination, public enlightenment and civic engagement, urging the management and staff of Big Heart Radio to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy and responsible journalism.

• According to him, while the medi
• a has a duty to hold public institutions accountable, criticism should always be constructive and geared towards promoting good governance and societal progress.
  Osuoza commended Mr. Idigbe for demonstrating confidence in the state’s investment climate and for choosing to invest in a project that would empower citizens through information and education.

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, described the establishment of Big Heart Radio as a landmark achievement and a significant milestone in the history of the Asaba Kingdom.
The revered monarch noted that, to the best of his knowledge, it was the first time an Asaba indigene had established a major radio broadcasting station in the state capital.
He said the project aligned perfectly with his vision of repositioning Asaba and encouraging indigenes to take ownership of the city’s development through strategic investments.

Today represents a new dawn for Asaba. This project demonstrates what can be achieved when our people invest in their homeland. It is not just a radio station; it is a platform that will help tell our stories, promote our culture and strengthen our identity, the Asagba stated.
He also expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for their support towards the successful realization of the project.

Chairman of the occasion, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, described the commissioning as a welcome development that would deepen grassroots communication and enhance public participation in governance and community affairs.
He emphasized that radio remains the most accessible medium for reaching ordinary people, adding that investments in communication infrastructure are investments in societal development.

Speaking on the vision behind the station, Chief Tony Idigbe, SAN, said the commissioning marked the fulfilment of a long-held dream to establish a platform dedicated to educating, informing and entertaining the public.
According to him, Big Heart Radio was conceived to bridge communication gaps, stimulate meaningful conversations, encourage citizen participation and provide opportunities for people to connect and share ideas.
He commended Governor Oborevwori for creating an enabling environment for investment in Delta State and praised the Asagba of Asaba for his innovative leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of the capital city.

Idigbe also acknowledged the support of Prince Nduka Obaigbena, family members and friends who contributed to the realization of the project. He paid special tribute to his family for making available part of their ancestral land for the establishment of the station, describing the gesture as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice and collective commitment to community development.

The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Charles Obuebu, lauded the initiative, noting that modern broadcasting has evolved beyond traditional transmission systems to include digital and online platforms.
He urged the management of Big Heart Radio to focus on making a positive impact on society through quality programming that promotes culture, entrepreneurship, education and national development.

Also speaking, Mr. Richard Agu, a longtime friend and former university colleague of Tony Idigbe, described the station as an innovative venture that reflected Idigbe’s determination and commitment to excellence.
Agu recalled that Idigbe had consistently demonstrated exceptional focus and leadership qualities since their university days and expressed confidence that the station would become a leading voice in the region.

At the heart of the remarkable achievement is Dr. Mrs. Lizzy Idigbe, wife of Tony Idigbe, SAN, and President of the Association of Ibusa Professional Women (AIPROW).
Speaking with Newsbreeze Magazine, Mrs. Idigbe described the commissioning as the product of vision, dedication, perseverance and a commitment to giving back to society.
She stressed that access to information remains a powerful tool for empowerment and development, adding that the station would serve as a bridge between communities and opportunities.

Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM is designed to integrate conventional radio broadcasting with digital and social media technologies, enabling it to reach wider audiences and foster greater listener engagement across multiple platforms.

Management of the station disclosed that the blend of traditional and digital broadcasting would expand its reach while ensuring that listeners remain connected through interactive and innovative programming.

The high point of the event was the station’s first live broadcast, conducted by the Chairman of the occasion, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, officially signaling the commencement of broadcasting activities.

With its launch, Big Heart Radio 92.1 FM is expected to strengthen Delta State’s media industry, promote cultural heritage, support grassroots development and provide a vibrant platform for information dissemination, entertainment and public discourse.

The commissioning was not only a celebration of a new radio station but also a celebration of the vision, sacrifice and investment of the Idigbe family, underscoring what is possible when individuals choose to invest in projects that benefit society and inspire future generations.