As part of the Pastor Idowu Okeze’s birthday celebration, a non – governmental organisation Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation (ONOF) has organised a debate competition for all the secondary schools in Ibusa to mark his birthday.The competition brought together students who presented compelling arguments for and against the motion, showcasing their critical thinking, creativity, and depth of research.
Pastor Idowu Okeze dressed in Man O’ War uniform after decoration and investiture as patron and along side with his wif
While explaining the reason behind the hosting of the event, the president of the Foundation Mr. Elder Patrick Okeze, highlighted the importance of fostering intellectual engagement and innovation in education.
According to him, the future of education depends on people’s ability to think critically and adapt to new challenges without losing the human touch.
Okeze stressed that the debate is part of ONOF’s larger commitment to promoting quality education and empowering young Nigerians to become changed agents in their communities. At the end of the debates Chosen Stars School won the grand prize as the best school with cash prize of N500.000 and St. Augustine’s College N300.000.
He commended the principals and staff of the Schools that participated for their commitment to the students’ growth and the seamless organisation of the event. The debate was a fitting celebration of the power of education to inspire transformative ideas and empower young minds for the future.
It was a day of pomp and ceremony at Obi Nwaokocha Okeze’s Event Centre in Ibusa, as the Delta State Command of the Man O’ War decorated and investiture Pastor Idowu Okeze as their patron.
The Commandant, while conducting the investiture and decoration of their new patron, she informed the gathering that his roles will be largely advisory and to enable the command to succeed through his support.
She enjoined all stakeholders that have been contributing to the growing capacity of the command to support the new leadership to attain lofty heights. She added that change has indeed come, and the time has come for all hands to be on deck to create a better society.
In his remark, the new patron Pastor Idowu Okeze said he was humbled and overwhelmed for the paramilitary organization to find him worthy to be their patron. He pledged to do everything within his capacity to assist as well as move the Delta unit Man O’ War to greater height.
Pastor Okeze has advised youths to imbibe discipline and hard work to actualise their potential and secure a brighter future for themselves.
He said that youths should not allow negative influences in society and in their immediate environments to determine their future, stressing that the organisation aims at instilling discipline, and good values, as well as ensure physical and mental fitness that will help youths achieve their aim in the future.
The programme also featured a march past by the command’s cadets and other side attractions that added colour to the parade and handover ceremony.
Onicha Ukwuani community in Ndokwa West local Government Area has conferred a Chieftaincy title on her illustrious son, Chief Emeke Ochonogor, as” Omemma 1 of Onicha Ukwuani ” for electrifying their communities which have been in total darkness for more than 20 years.
Even though it is an ongoing project, he started it with two hundred and fifty million Naira. He is not seeking any political office. It is just mere philanthropy.
Declaring the Chieftaincy title publicly, the prime minister of the five quarters, the Onotu-Uku of Onicha, Chief George Ogwu revealed that the community deem it necessary to honour Emeke Ochonoghor for his unending humanitarian gesture towards the Onicha Ukwuani community especially electrifying the communities that have been in total darkness for more than 20 years.
Chief George noted that such humanitarian kind cannot be overlooked without the community reciprocating by honouring him.
He said, recognizing such a man, would spur him and others to begin to look inward by contributing their quota to the development of their communities.
According to him: ” the honour is because of the goodness of Emeke Ochonogor as he has established electricity for the entire five quarters- Amoji, Eweshi, Ibabu, Ike- Onicha and Ugiliamai”.
“So, we have nothing to render to him, we all agreed to give him the title, “the Omemma 1 of Onicha” because we have never seen a man who brings electricity to his community without the help of the government. The idea is to give him the title to enable him do more and for others to emulate him.”
Chief George disclosed that the five quarters have been in total darkness for more than 20 years, saying “we have been struggling for the government to help but couldn’t see any help from them”.
He, however, appealed to the state government to build health care facilities, good primary and secondary schools and water for the community.
Speaking in an interview, President General, Onicha-Ukwuani Youth, comrade Ambrose Enuma said the honour of Chief Emeke Ochonogor was perfectly God’s doing for the youth of the community to have among them a person who is worthy to emulate and love by the communities.
While expressing gratitude for the Chieftaincy title, Chief Emeke Ochonogor expressed happiness. He said he didn’t know that the community would go this far to crown him with the title as Omemma 1 of Onicha Ukwuani.
He said; ” I am very happy about the honour, it is a thing of joy that your people recognize you that you have done something for them. It is a good feeling and hopefully in the future I am going to do more”
The ceremony was well attended by sons and daughters of the community and neighbouring communities including Ogume, Utagba Uno, Iselegu and others.
HRM Obi (Prof.) Louis Nwoboshi in a group photograph with Ibusa Youths Electoral Committee
The most youthful electorate in Nigerian history will head to the polls soon to decide the next youths executives of Igbuzo Youths Council . Numerous incidents have already marred the election. Authorities can take several steps to lessen the dangers before, during and after the vote. In this exclusive interview with Newsbreeze, the Igbuzo Youths Electoral Committee Chairman and Secretary speaks on the Youths election in Igbuzo , their achievements and challenges amongst sundry issues. Excerpts!
Can we meet you sir?
Chairman: My name is Barrister Charles Nwaogwugwu ,a legal practitioner, I have my office here in Igbuzo. I am the Chairman of Igbuzo youth electoral committee and by my side here is the secretary of the committee, Amb. Vincent Olimimah.
How did you emerge the Chairman of this Committee?
Chairman: I was called and was told that I was going to be a member, and after the first inaugural meeting , the members appointed me as the Chairman being the lawyer in their midst so I accepted the chairman position.
Were you people elected legally or appointed?
Chairman: We were appointed by the provision of Section 13 sub section 1-10 of the constitution of Igbuzo Youths Council (IYC)everything concerning our appointment was legal and I told them that we have to follow the constitution strictly.
Sir, How did you people come about the list of the committee?
Chairman: What the constitution says is clear. The constitution says one from every Ogbe and we are ten. Everybody is elected and we added the past presidents because of their wealth of wisdom and understanding of Igbuzo. One of the problems we have in Igbuzo is that when a man is not part of a particular thing he becomes angry and want to fight the system. By the provision of section 12 of the Igbuzo Youth constitution, made it clear that the past presidents are to play the role of advisory members, and a representative from each ogbe of the ten villages that make up Igbuzo. My Secretary is an automatic member from the provision of the constitution. The constitution says that the secretary of the council must be an automatic member.
Sir, what is the role of HRM,Obuzor in Igbuzo Youth Council.
Chairman: The role of the Obuzor by the provision of Section 12 of the youths constitution ,says that the Obuzor will be acting in Advisory Capacity ONLY.
How come the Obuzor released a list of new Youths Electoral Committee for the election?
Chairman: To be honest with you, I was surprised when I saw the new list. Ordinary by Section 12 of the constitution the Obuzor has no right to do so, it is only the out-going President Ifeanyi Asiodu based on section 13 sub section 1-10 of the constitution that has the right to select and inaugurate the electoral committee . For me, that list is unconstitutionally and unacceptable to Igbuzo Youths Council.
what is the Position of the youths based on the Obuzor list
The new list infuriated the youths actually, they had wanted to protest, but they felt it was not necessary. So we decided to seek a legal redress to enable the court interpret the constitution to everybody and to bring peace to Igbuzo because I don’t want rancor or chaos in Igbuzo. I wouldn’t want a situation where the palace will be ridiculed also. Hence we had to go to court. It is not we that took HRM to court but the constitution. We sort for an injunction to hold on at the moment and after the decision of the court if the court decides otherwise no problem, if it decides that section 13 should go ahead no problem as well, we will move ahead.
There was an allegation that last week the committee went to Obuzor to beg for forgiveness and he gave the Committee a condition that the case must be withdrawn first before he will talk to the Committee. Is it true or false?
Chairman: We wish to inform the public that a group of mediators, led by Mr. Paul Okobi, had met with the Obuzor earlier on two different occasions to address the ongoing issues between him and the Youth Council. Meanwhile, at our various discussion with the us, we were unanimous in the fact that the Obuzor of Ibusa is our father and further stated that the intent of the court case was not intentionally done to malign his name and the institution but was in their wisdom to allow Obuzor know that he was not perhaps sincerely well informed by some of the committee members that had the meeting with him which gave rise to the new Electoral Committee list that was published. After much discussion, they agreed that inserting Obuzors name in the suit was though almost inevitable but not morally acceptable to all as we have not explored all other viable communication channels to reach him and explain our grievances.
After another discussion with the Obuzor’s, HRM eventually agreed to receive us, hear us out and speak with us as a father to chart a way forward for the good of the community. The meeting was slated for 10.00 am on Friday,14th February, 2025, at Obuzors Palace.
Consequently, we all agreed to move as a body to the palace, to seek his face as our father, our King and for the honour and dignity of the institution.
However, upon our arrival at the Obuzors palace as if by divine intervention the Local Government Chairman was coincidentally in the palace, perhaps, in furtherance for the peace process.
On that note, we had to wait outside for all the mediators to be complete before the Obuzor eventually called us to his palace.
The meeting between the Royal Majesty and the Electoral Committee started with cola nut breaking and prayers from His Royal Majesty
However, at the brief speech by Mr Paul Okobi on the Genesis of their grievances and our resolve to visit him and pledge our respect and allegiance to him as our Royal father, the Obuzor subsequently accepted our cola nut, prayed for us and advised that the court case be vacated, to give room for more fruitful and robust discussion to avoid being sub judicial to court processes which may be tantamount to contempt of court. We want to thank everyone for your support and sincerely hope that we will get it right in the days ahead. we must stick to our right.
What is your right?
Chairman: Our right is that we must follow the Constitution.
Are you saying that the list from Obuzor is unacceptable by the Youths?
Chairman: It is unacceptable as much as we are concerned. The list does not constitute the provision of the constitution that must comprises the ten(10) villages of –Otu-UWOLO, Otu-ODOGWU and Otu-IYASE it does not. Unlike the previous list that was brought out by the out -going Igbuzo Youths President. That was in line with the provision of section 13 sub section 1-10.
Sir, from the new Obuzor list ,an aspirant was included in the list. What is your take on this?
Chairman: That is the magic of the list. we are surprise that an aspirant who bought a form to contest for the position of secretary of Ogboli Youths in the person of Daddy Concept was included in the list. How can somebody vying for a position be a member of the electoral committee list? It is wrong and unconstitutional.
Sir, Do you think that list is from HRM or someone is trying to manipulate the Palace ?
Chairman: Honestly speaking I respect the palace and HRM a lot. I think the list did not emerge from him. Somebody is working on him because if he is properly advised he wouldn’t have gone to this extent of releasing such list.
Sir, the Patrons of Igbuzo Youths Council in the persons of Most Distinguished Sen. Peter Nwaoboshi, Pst. Idowu Okeze and Chief Elvis Okonji addressed the youths and warned that people should stay clear from the youths election ,What do you have to say?
Chairman: We want to assure the patrons and the entire Igbuzo people, that we are men of integrity. It’s our sole responsibility to conduct a free and fair election for Igbuzo and as far as this committee is concern ,nobody can influence nor intimidate this committee. Since this is the first time we are conducting youths election according to the constitution , all we need is the full support of the entire Igbuzo people because the best popular candidate must emerge by the grace of God almighty.
There’s an allegation that the election is supposed to start from the Ogbes but you people decided to start from the central, why?.
Secretary: The constitution was very clear. Section 13 sub section (1 )makes it very clear. It says that this committee will be elected and saddled with the duties of electing and conducting elections into the central positions and Ogbe elections and positions as the case may be. The basic ones that must come first are the central. Let me add more. A lot of people are saying why are we allowing the president that has served before to be the one to generate the delegates and I asked have we ever used this constitution before?
The last election was not conducted with this constitution. At the time election was held ,this constitution was not signed. The constitution was signed after the inauguration of the executives. I must say that majority of our people are not knowledgeable about the new constitution and some persons have been paid to sell wrong information to the Igbuzo public just to cost confusion. The various Ogbe president were not elected when they came in for the first time. We are test running this election with our lay down constitution and nobody can change it. We want to assure all candidates that the next Igbuzo Youths President must emerge through credible poll and not by appointment or intimidation.
Sir, the Igbuzo Youths Council vowed that they will not allow external body to conduct or influence their election?
Secretary: My brother it cannot happen in Igbuzo my town. We have our constitution and it is not stated that anybody outside the youths council will conduct our election ,so any group of persons who are lobbying to bring in anybody to disturb our election will fail woefully because we are wiser now than before. The youths body should be allow to elect their leaders and we don’t need any external interference in this election.
What are your takes and the way forward on the election?
Secretary: The constitution gives the out going President of Igbuzo Youth Council the legal right to conduct the election that will pilot new youth executives. If you have issues with that then come to us then we will look at what you are saying because we are human beings . Candidates have already bought the election forms, made to go to places to get their results, went to court to stamp their forms, sworn affidavits,submitted their forms to the committee, screened and they knew what they saw when they came for screening and for goodness sake, you don’t throw such a process just at a wave of hand. That is a complete injustice to human and injustice to one is injustice to all. All youths must stand at this point and understand that where they stand is where they need to stand.
Chairman The provision of the constitution is very clear. Like I said we have gone to court not to fight our dear father HRM Obuzor. We went to court to interpret the constitution. We are assuring you that if the court decide that the Obuzor has the right to constitute the electoral committee we cannot fight the court, we will definitely abide by the courts order but if the court says otherwise, we will go ahead with the election by the time frame we are given. So we are waiting for the court.
Sir, are you saying you people are not withdrawing the case based on the last meeting held with the Obuzor?
Chairman: At the moment, by the publication made by the Obuzors Director of information which was inimical to our integrity, it is becoming difficult for the Committee to decide what to do.
Secretary: We came to make peace and discuss with our father but when we came back what we read from the Director of Information of the Palace made it impossible for us to believe anyone obviously.
Chairman: It is quite unfortunate that somebody will regard us as ill mannered . It has not been explained to us why some committee members have been removed and it tells a lot about those peoples integrity. How will they look at them outside the community or even within the community. I will be a failure if I decide to work otherwise.
Secretary: Same here.
What assurance are you people giving to Igbuzo people?
Chairman: I am assuring the Igbuzo people that definitely it is not a fight. It is for us to get things done in the right way. We are not fighting our Royal Father. He is being pushed by some people but that is not the issue. What I can assure our Igbuzo people is that we will get these things done by the grace of God, the election will definitely come to pass.
Secretary: The Igbuzo people should understand that the Youths Council means well for them. The committee was clearly carefully selected and at as the time for the preparation for the election, not one person in the committee had an idea of who was on top or who was going to win. Integrity was the watch word. What we stand for is what we still stand for. Integrity and I will use this word ALUTA CONTINUAL VICTORIA ASCERTA (The struggle continues victory is certain)
Edo State stood still on Thursday,14th February,2025 as eminent Nigerians from all walks of life thronged the usually quiet town of Afuze, the administrative headquarters of Owan East Local Government Area of the state to pay their last respects to the late Mrs Ikeke Helen Ogedengbe, whose remains were interred at the Ogedengbe royal family compound.
The colourful ceremony brought together her children, sons and daughters in-law, relatives, friends and well-wishers who came from near and wide to bid her farewell and pay their last respects.
Mama Ogedengbe lived a life of purpose. She was a mother, grandmother and a friend to many. Though her demise came to many as a shock, but mama was indeed a virtuous woman.
She was loved by the people of Afuze town and her sterling straightforward, honest, trustworthiness and kindness distinguished her among her peers in the town.
Mama Ogedengbe, who passed away on at the age of 101 after a brief illness, left her good footprints for her children.
Afuze community, the venue of her funeral, was agog with crème de la crème of society who came to pay their last respects. At the funeral were top political leaders, businessmen and women, captains of industry, and other eminent Nigerians from all walks of life, who converged on the hitherto quiet town to give a grand royal funeral service to the late matriarch of the Ogedengbe family.
For many, it was a celebration of life of the Centenarian, who gave her all and served her people, Mama Ogedengbe was the Grandmother-in-law of Pastor Idowu Okeze and the grand mother of Pastor (Mrs ) Gloria Okeze, the wife of Pastor Okeze.
She was also survived by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Her funeral service was held at Afuze and she lived a life of humility and commitment to the service of God.
Mrs Okeze disclosed that her grand mother lived an impactful life, adding that Nigerians should love one another by being charitable towards the promotion of humanity.
According to her, Nigerians should wholeheartedly embrace God in their daily lives by shunning anything capable of severing their relationship with God. It was a day for torrents of tributes as eminent Nigerians, family and friends hailed the contributions of the deceased to the welfare of mankind. I know that we feel pains, particularly members of the family but let us be comforted as she made her mark in life and she was a woman that made a great difference.
“She was someone who spent her life serving God and humanity and was one of those mothers who inspired me in life.
In his tribute at the funeral , Pastor Idowu Okeze eulogised the deceased for her invaluable service and significant contributions toward advancing the cause of humanity.
Okeze hailed the late Mama Ikeke Helen Ogedengbe for her love and compassion for humanity, saying she had left an indelible imprint on society.
He described the matriarch of the Ogedenge family as a woman who spent her life serving God and humanity.
“Mama was a mother to all and I am truly part of the family because I do remember her commitment to her family and she was always there for us.
“She was a mother to the poor, eyes to the blind and leg to the lame and she did so much to impact humanity,” Okeze explained. He urged the family members not to weep but to rejoice because their mother led a life of great impact and left indelible legacies. At the reception, guests were entertained in several marquees, including the home of Ogedengbe, who threw his doors open to host the mammoth crowd.
Lauding her resourcefulness and passion for excellence, Okeze said: “Reading Mama’s story, she just reminds all of us of how we were brought up with those values of diligence, of compassion for the community and integrity – the way she brought up and committed to the larger family, the Edo family, the family of humanity and serving God relentlessly till the end of the day.
“So, those are the values and those are assets that we must always pay attention to and associate with and you can also see it in her children.
“They’ve gone on to be very successful in life and also made friends from all over.
Engr. Peter Nwases, described her as a woman with humanity, adding that she cared about people. To the bereaved family, he charged them to “take it in good faith because that is the work of God and they should continue to pray for her.
“They should build on the legacy that she left behind because her legacy is very important and that is caring for the people.”
Among other dignitaries present are Hon. Onyesis Okeze, Chief Austin Ndinwa,(Okemili Igbuzo), Mr Micheal Okonkwo, and members of Okeze family members and friends from Ibusa.
Chief ( Comrade) Ifeanyi Asiodu President, Igbuzo Youths Council
As Youth President seeking to nurture future Community leaders,focus first on cultivating empathy ,service and ethics in yourself and others. The out going Igbuzo Youths Council (IYC) ; the umbrella body of all youths organisations in Igbuzo. In this exclusive interview with Newsbreeze, speaks on the Youths election in Igbuzo , his achievements and challenges amongst sundry issues. Hear the passion, vision, and expectations for the youths at Harvest of Royalty. Get inspired to take your place in this divine celebration of out going youths President of Igbuzo . Excerpts!
Q: Can we meet you sir
My name is Chief ( Comrade) Ifeanyi Asiodu ,from Umuodafe Igbuzo
You are the outgoing president, can you tell us about your achievements
Thank you very much. Yes I am the out-going President of Igbuzo Youth Council. So far so good,I would have done more, if not for a few individuals and groups that said if you are not a cultist or politician they will not allow you to excel or do what you are supposed to do but like I said we have achieved a lot. I can beat my chest to say what we have done in the first year and second year, my predecessor’s tried their best but we beat their records.
For example in my administrating,we were able to buy two Toyota Sienna buses ,one for the Igbuzo police and the other for one for Oshimili North surveillance . There was nothing we didn’t do then to help encourage the police to protect life and properties in our dear town, the records are there. In my tenure we guarded the entire community . We don’t have so much resources in our purse but I personally funded some of the youths activities. We have ten Ogbes in Igbuzo and anybody who is an indigene knows what it takes to prepare youths to guard throughout the night and the Local Government would always promised to assist financially but they never did.
During the Covid 19, when the protesters were looting ware houses, we guarded Igbuzo well,even when warehouses in Asaba were looted and some items carted but the Igbuzo youths guarded day and night without any problem.
Come to the issue of roads, we did our best, before now you can testify that there were lots of pot holes in some of our roads. We tried our best to fill them, if you go to Kefas road up to the junction by Okwali`s house ,people can always testify that the culvert was bad for many years and no vehicle or trucks can pass the road, not even the government did anything about it. We the youths took over the project of the culvert and constructed it manually and today it is passable and big trucks can ply the culvert now.
Again from Kefas road to Useni road and other roads in Igbuzo, we filled the pot holes roads and make them motorable again. Those are what we did as Igbuzo youths council on our roads .
Sir, How did you tackle Kidnapping and Cult crises in Igbuzo?
I can say during my tenure ,we tackle kidnapping in Igbuzo to the barest minimum and we did our best and I will tell you why kidnapping are still going on . The people in government knows why. There was this night there was a case of gun shooting in Umuoehea farm road in Igbuzo and two people were caught but when the police found out that they were rival cultist members, the people in authority changed the matter immediately accusing the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) that he is taking side and because the two culprits are members of particular cult group that are in power, power that be called Igbuzo DPO to release them because they were members of a particular cult group and they were released at last.
When I discovered that it was big cover up from the authority ,I told myself that I cannot be investing my money and risking my life and that of my members guarding the Igbuzo people and the government in charge will be sabotaging our efforts. They only bring people to book if the culprit does not belong to a particular political group or cult.
Sir, can you talk on Youths Empowerment in IGBUZO?
Under my leadership, we set up a free computer school in Igbuzo which is still operational. We rented a complete duplex and employed qualified teachers that we are paying every month and it is still on till date.
Under my leadership, we empowered more than hundred men and women the records are there. The people are still alive they can testify. We gave them cash of ten thousand each, apart from that we have people we are training in schools. More than fifty of them are under my personal scholarship . Since 1997, I have been sponsoring people in the Universities and Secondary schools. Recently three people just graduated from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
On sanitation everybody can testify what we did as youths, we cleared the drainages from Kefas junction to Isieke, Useni roads and inside the town you can go and verify. We cleaned the entire Ashi -Eke market with millions of naira.
Under my leadership we were paying the most senior Diokpa of Igbuzo till death, I started it from the previous Diokpa. infact I started paying from the first day I assumed duty as youths president. Everything I have said are verifiable.
Sir, Lets Talk about the Youths Election that is Heating up the Politics in Igbuzo
We ought to have conducted this election since last year and the delay of the election was as a result of respect we accorded to the local government Council chairman, we held meeting last year with him concerning the election and he personally appeal to the Youths Council to suspend their election till after the local government poll and give the government some time to settle down so that the youths election will now be conducted in a peaceful atmosphere. We waited as discussed and since the government had now settled down we decided to go ahead and conduct election to enable new executives emerge. We set up Igbuzo Youths Electoral Committee with the mandate to sale forms,screen and conduct election as guided by our constitution. The new Electoral Committee was introduced to our Royal father ,His Royal Majesty, Obi(Prof) Louis Nwoboshi and the Local Government Chairman Hon. Innocent Esewezie and we followed our constitution which is the grand norm.
The Igbuzo youths Constitution wasn’t written by me or one person. it was meant for the future and this is the first time it is going to work. As the President of Igbuzo youths, we must follow our constitution and we must protect the constitution and make sure it works to the end.
The Ibusa Youth Council has always Operated under a well defined constitution, particularly Section 13, which empowers the youths President to constitute Electoral Committee that can carry out their duties independently.
Moreover, after few months of not conducting a fresh youths election, Ibusa Youths became worried that a new exco was supposed to have emerge and it was based on this public outcry and petitions that prompted the setting up of an electoral committee as required by Ibusa Youths Council Constitution, Section (13) to oversee the election process of the incoming executives.
Eleven Man Electoral Committee and three advisory members was set up and the Committee headed by Barrister E. Charles Nwaogwugwu as Chairman and Amb.Vincent Oliminah as Secretary respectively, the electoral body was inaugurated to conduct and to usher new executives who in turn paid a courtesy visit to HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa along with his council of Chiefs and he was briefed on activities and the readiness of the committee to conduct a free and fair election and in response, the Obuzor of Igbuzo commended the committee for doing a good job and promised that he will stand by them to play his advisory role as stated in Igbuzo youths council constitution. The committee also paid a courtesy visit to the Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Innocent Esenwezie ,they equally briefed him of their readiness to perfect and conduct a transparent youths election come February 2nd 2025,the council chairman pleaded his total support to enable them conduct a peaceful election.
Few days to the election, HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi called a stakeholders meeting requesting for the postponement of the election date saying that he will reconvene another meeting of which he did. We were surprised to see a new list of Electoral Committee members been released from the palace in which seventy percent of the previous names was removed and new names of people who are above the age bracket of youths?
With due respect to our Royal father, HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, He does not have the Constitutional right to altered the list of Igbuzo Youths Electoral Committee according to Section (12 )of Igbuzo Youths Council Constitution, the Obuzor has only advisory role to play and the Obuzor position as pertaining to the youths is advisory role only.
I commend the effort of the palace of the Obuzor of Igbuzo ,but all we want is a free and fair election. I have no preferred candidate whoever wins have my hundred percent support . We don’t want any interference from individuals or groups , I don’t want anybody to hijack the youths election or turn the Youths body to political party.
Before I became Igbuzo youths president, it has a kind of appointment before but now we have a constitution and we must consolidate on it . During my tenure a lot of petition was brought in . When Umuodafe Youths Chairman was removed illegally they called me to authenticate his removal but I refused because he was legally elected constitutionally. To remove an elected president there are rules to be followed. Ogboli issue came up the same thing. If I had compromised by now there won’t be any election.
To the good people of Igbuzo, I ask one question: should we continue to do the same thing over and over and expect different results? It is time to be daring and try new ideas; ideas that have worked in other places ideas based on measurable indices, ideas that create a level playing field for all. What I’m promising Igbuzo Youths is something they have always known is possible, not a tall tale. nobody can undermine the constitution of Igbuzo Youths.
The true worth of a man is the way he treats people who are absolutely in need. If you care about people in need, you are actually making a contribution to the development of the nation. We need to give life back to the people. We need to see how we can use the available resources for everybody; create opportunities for all and care especially for those who are truly in need. The gap between the rich and the poor should be bridged. Those of us blessed with material resources need to share with others. We must strike a balance with our resources.” This is the Philosophy of Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma the CEO,One Needs Group of Companies.
CEO of One Needs Properties Limited,Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma and members of AOPSHON
Real Estate Company popularly known as One Needs Properties,has paid the 2025 Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (Primary Six Exams) registration fees for all the primary school students in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
One Needs Properties paid the fees for over 1,500 candidates for the forthcoming examination for the various schools.
The philanthropist and Chairman of One Needs Properties Limited,Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma who made the good gesture during a visit to the school, said the move is a personal commitment for him to empower the next generation as well as contribute to the educational development of Delta State.
Otoma expressed that he is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to excel academically and unlock their full potential.
“Education is the foundation for a brighter future, and I believe every child deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of financial constraints.
“With this in mind, I paid the first School Leaving Certificate Examination fees for over 1,500 students for all the primary School in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
“This is my heartfelt commitment to empowering the next generation and contributing to the educational development of our dear Oshimili North Local Government Area.
“I am passionate about creating opportunities for young people to excel academically and unlock their full potential.
“To me, these students represent the hope and future of Delta, and I am honoured to play a part in their journey toward success,” he stated.
He said his compassionate gesture aims to support underprivileged students, ensuring they have access to quality education and a brighter future and urged the beneficiaries to view the support as a motivation to excel in the examination, giving their utmost effort to achieve academic success.
Otoma urged well-meaning Deltans to “keep investing in our youth and help them achieve greatness and call on corporate organizations and individuals to give back to the society.
“I thank the schools’ management and staff for their hard work and urge the beneficiaries to study diligently, excel in their examinations, and inspire us to do more.
In their separate remarks, the Chairman of Association of Primary School Heads of Nigeria (AOPSHON),Comrade Chima Ugochukwu Anthony and Comrade Ogoh Augustine,National Deputy President(AOPSHON)applauded One Needs Properties for this generous acts of paying Millions of Naira for all the primary school pupils in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
They expressed their heartfelt appreciation for his kindness, acknowledging the significant impact his gesture will have on students’ education and future prospects.
“Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma the CEO,One Needs Group of Companies has responded to pupils call,“We are grateful to One Needs Group of Companies for this kind gesture. And we extend our prayers to Otoma on behalf of our students and parents for this kind gesture. And we know that providence will surely pay him back,” an elated Comrade Chima remarked.
As it stands today in Anioma Nation, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi is the official mascot of Anioma identity, history, traditional norms and values. He is fearless, courageous, pragmatic, articulate and very outspoken advocacy in the legitimate quest for constitutional clarity over contentious issues, which he has displayed with competent authority, makes his leadership model iconic and he has been their voice and will continue to stands for Anioma people when they are seemingly oppressed.
Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, the Dynamic Leader,the Oracle turned Miracle of Delta Politics, the Ide of Okpanam Land, Oshimili Lieonye Olie Ogwuaa of Akwukwu Igbo Kingdom and the Ochiaya of Anioma Nation, when he ascended as the member representing Delta North Senatorial District in the Senate Arm of the National Assembly, as a first timer he became the Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs,because he is the Anioma’s Democratic ship and he used the senate as vehicle to drive social and economic change in Delta North (Anioma) undermining the vehement hostility against him as a member of the opposition party at federal level.
However, Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi did not renege on his primary duty as a Senator and continued to discharge his duties with a sense of purpose and efficiency. Many leaders have not shown a greater sense of emotional intelligence, empathy and responsiveness to the needs of Deltans like (Senator Nwaoboshi)our Anioma Political Warrior, A Go-Getter and a result Oriented Senator.
Besides these legislative efforts and accomplishments, it is on record that he has, in an unprecedented manner attracted unequaled massive projects to the Delta North Senatorial District. Senator Nwaoboshi flaunts a first-time record in roads construction, rural electrification, both in the distribution of transformers, renovations of schools , supply of school, text books, chairs and tables and solar energy street lights, visible in all the nooks and crannies of the Anioma nation and this is indisputable. The list is endless and no space in one write-up can allow the listing, else it may become boring.
He fought and included Ndokwa Nation into Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) master plan and also included Ndokwa Youths into Nigeria Presidential Amnesty Programmes which alot of young people in Ndokwa Nation even in the whole of Delta North Senatorial District have benefited both in Education, Health, Agriculture sectors and Oil Companies Treaties till tomorrow. He also Sponsored the Bill for Act to repeal NDDC act, same Bill has been Passed by the National Assembly and Assented to or rather signed into Law by the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Critics in their attempt to lower the influence of the Nwaoboshi Factor have deposed insensitively that these achievements came only because of his privileged position as the chairman of the Senate committee for Niger Delta Affairs. They point to the huge resources of the NDDC as an added impetus for his performance. Absurdly, this position denies the Nwaoboshi Factor to these events. The questions to ask and congruously pertinent is, how is it that the ruling party ceded such a feasible and viable office to Nwaoboshi coming from an opposition party, if not for his delirious personae? That Nwaoboshi knows his onions is not at all in doubt because from the start of his political career, he has shown remarkably that he towers in the realm of the spiritual.
Anioma people have every reason to be proud of Nwaoboshi – A true son of Anioma, an illustrious son whose political influence has brought multiplying gains to us, evidenced by the several projects in infrastructure either attracted or personally provided by the Senator. In human capital development, the Senator has, and is still empowering both youths and women in various trades and businesses to make them self-reliant. Many more are also now on his payroll, sole effort of the Senator to alleviate the sufferings of his people.
All the nooks and crannies of Delta North are witness to the Nwaoboshi factor in the distribution of social infrastructure that once eluded the region as stakeholders in the NDDC
Deltans-Anioma Nation now knows better that Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi is the best Senator ever to represent Delta North at the upper chambers. His kindness and willingness to reach out to Aniomas people is one reputation that will continue to precede him. Nwaoboshi has performed beyond doubt and above all past and present Senators who have represented Delta North in the Senate and this is unquestionable and deepening success shall have no end because Senator Nwaoboshi is willing to do more.
Senator Peter Nwaoboshi has reaffirmed to his commitment to the existing zoning arrangement in Anioma nation and has been the voice and will continue to stands for Anioma people when they are seemingly oppressed.
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to providing functional and high-quality education across the state.
Aniagwu who emphasized the importance of equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for a competitive future, disclosed this on a national television programme monitored in Asaba, the state capital at the weekend.
The Commissioner who was reacting to questions regarding the challenges of proceeding with construction on the abandoned Sapele Polytechnic at Deghele-Iriabome communities, Elume District in Sapele LGA, assured of Governor Oborevwori’s continued investment in the education sector.
According to him, there is the need to understand the issue of functionality, education is not like opening a biscuit shop were everybody can come and buy biscuits.
“There is a reason for establishing institutions and i told you that we needed to look at the issues of quality and functionality as part of the aftermath of the 2016 education summit organized by the state government”.
“We had education summit in 2016 and we brought in professionals from across the country to assist us on a need assessment in the education sector and to make sure that our students do not remain in school more than necessary due to strikes”.
“The main goal of that summit was to ensure that our students get the kind of quality education that can position them to compete globally. Our education philosophy is to have accessible and functional institutions and not just to establish higher institutions that could make us to be seen to be politically correct”.
“Prior to the establishment of three new universities by the Ifeanyi Okowa led administration, we had three Polytechnics in Ogwashi-Uku, Ozoro and Otefe-Oghara. These polytechnics were established in the three Senatorial districts and that is in addition to three colleges of education in the three Senatorial districts.
“We had the main campus of the Delta State University in Central Senatorial District with other campuses in the South and the North”.
“So what we did as a government is to continue in the assessment of what we need, not to play politics. If you go and establish three polytechnics and you have 300 hundred students in one and possibly 500 lecturers and at the end of the day it becomes mushroom, how have you helped the state with that?
The Commissioner said the new universities were established based on a feasibility study which indicated the trend students were gravitating to.
“When we examined the trend we saw that many persons want to navigate towards University education and the University we had did not have enough carrying capacity.
“It was on the basis of that we established three additional universities with the Polytechnic at Ozoro converted to Delta State University of Science and Technology and later Southern Delta University, the campus at Asaba became Dennis Osadebay University and the College of Education at Agbor converted to University of Delta.
“In Nigeria today, no state can boost of the number of state owned higher institutions that we have to the extent that out of our ten federal constituencies, nine have higher institutions.
“In the last nine and half years, no higher institution in Delta has embarked on any strike. All the strikes you have seen across the federation our schools don’t join.
“They don’t join because we try to meet up with those demands to ensure functionality of our institutions. We don’t just say go and put a polytechnic or a university somewhere without having a feasibility study.
“It was a feasibility study that revealed university education had become much more attractive to our people and that was why we went that way.
“We have not jettisoned the establishment of more institutions but we needed to move steadily such that we do not bite more than we can chew per time.”
Speaking further, Aniagwu said a campus of the Southern Delta University was established at Orerokpe in the same federal constituency with Sapele and using facilities from the Technical College being constructed by the State Government.
“Governor Oborevwori has been running fast and steadily on the lane of functional and efficient education system that caters to the needs of the present and future”.
“As an administration, we do not have intention to abolish any institution so established but we will remain unwavering in our efforts at proceeding with educational needs assessment”
He said the Oborevwori administration would continue to promote the trajectory of quality and functional education for Deltans in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda.
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Ward 8 comprising Idumuje Unor, Idumuje Ugboko and Aniofu, has passed a vote of implicit confidence in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State for “his humane leadership style, promotion of peaceful co-existence and sustainable development across the State.”
This was part of resolutions reached at a meeting of the Ward leaders and other stakeholders held Friday at Idumuje Unor in Aniocha North Local Government Area.
The confidence vote, while it may appear to demonstrate unity and support for the governor, raises questions about its true purpose, motivations, and long-term implications for the political landscape of Aniocha North and Delta State at large.
First, it is essential to understand the context in which the confidence vote took place. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who was elected as the governor of Delta State in the 2023 general elections, has faced various challenges in solidifying his hold on power within the state. These challenges stem from both internal party issues and external factors that question his mandate.
Critics have raised concerns about his political strategies, governance style, and perceived ineffectiveness. However, in an attempt to bolster his position, Oborevwori has actively sought political endorsements, particularly from grassroots political structures like local government councils and wards. The confidence vote in Aniocha North Ward 8 can be understood as part of this larger effort.
For a confidence vote to be a genuine expression of support, it must reflect the sentiments of the people being polled. However, the reality in many of these local-level political moves, such as the one in Aniocha North, is that they are orchestrated by party elites or political godfathers who have vested interest in maintaining control.
In the case of Aniocha North Ward 8, the confidence vote was likely influenced by party leaders who want to secure their position in the governor’s administration. By publicly endorsing Oborevwori, these local leaders want to demonstrate their loyalty, securing their access to patronage, resources, and political appointments. Thus, the vote may not have been an authentic reflection of the local populace’s views but rather a calculated political maneuver by those seeking to maintain their influence and power within the state’s political system.
Furthermore, the timing of the confidence vote is also telling. Political moves like these are often strategically timed to coincide with periods of political uncertainty or when a leader’s popularity is waning. In this instance, the vote in support of Oborevwori might have been an attempt to stave off growing criticisms of his leadership and shore up support at the grassroots level. Such moves are typically seen as efforts to create an illusion of stability and unity within the party, even when there are underlying issues or fractures that are being ignored or downplayed. By showcasing the vote as a resounding endorsement, Oborevwori and his allies are presenting an image of cohesion to the public, despite knowing that the image does not fully align with the reality on the ground.
The potential consequences of framing the confidence vote as window dressing are significant. It risks undermining genuine democratic engagement and dialogue, as it presents a false narrative of popular support. Instead of addressing real concerns about governance, leadership, and accountability, the vote reinforces the idea that politics in the region operates primarily through patronage and the manipulation of political symbols for short-term gain. This approach to politics can be detrimental in the long run, as it stifles real debate and policy discussions that could lead to effective governance.
Moreover, the use of window dressing tactics in politics can alienate the electorate and breed cynicism. Voters who perceive such political moves as insincere may become disillusioned with the political system altogether, believing that their voices and concerns are being sidelined in favor of political elites looking to maintain their hold on power. This disillusionment can manifest in lower voter turnout, a lack of trust in political institutions, and an overall weakening of democratic processes.
In the case of Aniocha North Ward 8, the confidence vote may have been designed to protect the political interests of local leaders rather than addressing the real needs of the people. It serves to reinforce a political narrative that may not reflect the true sentiments of the electorate. The superficial endorsement of Oborevwori’s leadership, presented as a unified declaration of support, may ultimately do more harm than good, as it can lead to the masking of genuine issues within the local political structure.
The people who passed the confidence vote in the governor seemed to be helpless. Helpless in the sense that they have no choice of their own. Even if deep in their hearts they are not willing to do it, they just have to do it to please the governor. The confidence vote is a fake narrative to seek political patronage. It is done by people who must eat from the crumbs of the governor.
While the confidence vote may have been presented overtly as an expression of popular support, it is crucial to view it through the lens of political window dressing. The vote is more about appearances, loyalty, and maintaining control within the political elite, rather than a genuine reflection of the will of the people. As such, it raises important questions about the state of democratic practices in Delta State and the broader implications of such political tactics for the future of governance in the region.
While many might be naive about the propensity of your skills and leadership acumen, my proximity with you avails me to a clear fact.
While many defines you with a wrong perceptions, my close range with you unravels your kind of person, hence, a true definition of you is right within my reach.
I’m left in shock and awe as to what manner of man you are. Your mien is studied religiously and your mannerisms inspire hope and determination to succeed within those whose paths have crossed with you.
You’ve always being yourself and remaining true to your calling and purpose in life which is to be an Iroko and offer meaningful shade or protective cover to all those in need.
You’ve proven and distinguished yourself creditably in the little that life and chance has thrust upon you. You are imbued with the requisite dexterity, unassailable skills, intelligence, sound mind and a calm spirit of purpose.
As you add another year to your age today, I wish you many more productive and accomplished years on earth with longevity, sound health, contentment and abundant wealth.
Your political trajectory has just began. Continue soaring higher as more leadership opportunities await your progressive person.
Happy birthday Boss, My Daddy, My mentor, My leader
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She was loved by the people of Afuze town and her sterling straightforward, honest, trustworthiness and kindness distinguished her among her peers in the town.
Mama Ogedengbe, who passed away on at the age of 101 after a brief illness, left her good footprints for her children.
For many, it was a celebration of life of the Centenarian, who gave her all and served her people, Mama Ogedengbe was the Grandmother-in-law of Pastor Idowu Okeze and the grand mother of Pastor (Mrs ) Gloria Okeze, the wife of Pastor Okeze.
Mrs Okeze disclosed that her grand mother lived an impactful life, adding that Nigerians should love one another by being charitable towards the promotion of humanity.
In his tribute at the funeral , Pastor Idowu Okeze eulogised the deceased for her invaluable service and significant contributions toward advancing the cause of humanity.
“She was a mother to the poor, eyes to the blind and leg to the lame and she did so much to impact humanity,” Okeze explained. He urged the family members not to weep but to rejoice because their mother led a life of great impact and left indelible legacies. At the reception, guests were entertained in several marquees, including the home of Ogedengbe, who threw his doors open to host the mammoth crowd.
Lauding her resourcefulness and passion for excellence, Okeze said: “Reading Mama’s story, she just reminds all of us of how we were brought up with those values of diligence, of compassion for the community and integrity – the way she brought up and committed to the larger family, the Edo family, the family of humanity and serving God relentlessly till the end of the day.
Among other dignitaries present are Hon. Onyesis Okeze, Chief Austin Ndinwa,(Okemili Igbuzo), Mr Micheal Okonkwo, and members of Okeze family members and friends from Ibusa.
Eleven Man Electoral Committee and three advisory members was set up and the Committee headed by Barrister E. Charles Nwaogwugwu as Chairman and Amb.Vincent Oliminah as Secretary respectively, the electoral body was inaugurated to conduct and to usher new executives who in turn paid a courtesy visit to HRM Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa along with his council of Chiefs and he was briefed on activities and the readiness of the committee to conduct a free and fair election and in response, the Obuzor of Igbuzo commended the committee for doing a good job and promised that he will stand by them to play his advisory role as stated in Igbuzo youths council constitution. The committee also paid a courtesy visit to the Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Innocent Esenwezie ,they equally briefed him of their readiness to perfect and conduct a transparent youths election come February 2nd 2025,the council chairman pleaded his total support to enable them conduct a peaceful election.
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