30,000 Niger Delta Youths oppose October 1st protests

***Pass vote of confidence on Tinubu, say President has capacity to address nation’s challenges

* Hails Otuaro’s appointment, express confidence in Otuaro to steer ship of amnesty program

Over 30,000 ex-agitators in the Niger Delta, on Friday opposed the planned protests across the country on October 1st.

The youths vowed not to allow any protest to take place in the region on October 1st.

The repentant agitators, who spoke through their leaders at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Presidential Amnesty Programme led by Dr. Dennis Otuaro, in Warri, Delta State, called on the people of the Niger Delta region to avoid protests ahead of the October 1, assuring that the region’s challenges would be addressed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The youths disclosed this Friday at the end of the three day stakeholders forum held at KFT hall in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

Earlier in his speech, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Administrator , Presidential Amnesty Program revealed that the Federal Government has awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of the East-West Road to a Chinese construction company, adding that work will commence soon.

He urged the people of the region to resist any calls for protests, emphasizing that the peace and stability of the Niger Delta lie in the hands of its residents.

Otuaro reiterated the importance of maintaining peace in the region, noting that constructive engagement with the government remains the best way to achieve progress and development.

According to him, “The East-West Road, is a major artery in the Niger Delta, has been awarded to a Chinese company, and anytime soon, they will resume work.

“The President means well for the Niger Delta, and we must support his efforts to bring development to our region.

“The Niger Delta people will not be part of any protest. The problems of the Niger Delta will be resolved by the President, but it is up to us to ensure our region is not used as a base for protests,” Dr. Otuaro stressed.

“We have a responsibility to ensure that our region is peaceful. It is in our hands to keep the Niger Delta secure and support the Federal Government’s efforts to improve our communities,” he added.

On his part, a Niger Delta Leader, Paul Elvis, popularly known as General Ogubos, called for peace in the Niger Delta region, stressing that war is not the solution to the region’s challenges.

The former militant leader emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation in resolving conflicts. “Peace cannot be attained in a place of war.

“We must understand that violence will only lead to more destruction and suffering in our communities,” he stated, urging stakeholders to prioritize peaceful resolutions to grievances.

“Our people have legitimate concerns, but we must channel these grievances through dialogue, not violence.” He added

Elder T.K. Ogoruba, a prominent Niger Delta leader urged the federal government to address the longstanding demands of the region to avoid renewed protests.

Ogoruba noted that protests have been a consistent response to neglect since April 1949

He said, “We must maintain peace in the region, but let’s not forget that protests have been ongoing since 1949. The signs are clear, and protests will continue if nothing changes.

“Ogoruba stressed that the government is fully aware of the region’s demands, which include fair treatment, infrastructural development, and environmental remediation.

“I heard the administrator speak to us. What I came to hear was when he was appealing to all of us that we must maintain peace in the region, because protest is coming Protest.

“Protest is not alien to Niger Delta. We have protested all our protests, and those are the things that both about things like the residential amnesty program when you were young, the races you were running like an old man, that is, for 70 years today, I can’t run the race I used to run when I was much younger. Will not go deep tired for protest.

“We will be tired of it. Why am I saying this protest started since 1939 1940 Isaac Boro, 1966 and we have put all our matters know is that the federal government and all Nigerians are aware of the things the people of the Niger Delta need.

“We will not protest to tell them that any further, they already have them in their kitty, and by now, thank God that Mister President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has appointed the lives of our brother, Doctor Dennis Otuaro, and he is coordinating this amnesty program that is bringing results.

“Do you want to derail that program? There are some other issues that have been so appointed, the NDDC, the local content, national data development board, so many young ones have been appointed. Our protests have been made, and everybody is aware. So we want to give opportunities to the people the man has appointed to make sure that we get the dividends of democracy.” He said.

He called on the authorities to act swiftly to meet these needs to sustain peace and stability in the oil-rich region.

**Leadership isn’t merely about holding a title – Delta NUJ Chairman, Oyowe admonishes new exco

From Left: Victor Umukoro, Atu Lucky, Onyeka Lilian Adudu, Victor Sorokwu, Churchill Oyowe, Yvonne Suowari, Celestine Ukah, Inana Anna Okeoghene & Chimaobi Nzoromobi, immediately after the inauguration

Pioneer Chairman of Fresh Angle International Newspaper Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mrs. Yvonne Suowari, says she is excited about the journey ahead as regards the task to fight for what is right and the continued freedom to tell the stories that need to be told professionally.

Mrs. Suowari, made the declaration in Warri, Delta State, Friday September 27, during the inauguration of the first substantive executive of Fresh Angle International Newspaper Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Whilst noting that it was with profound sense of responsibility and commitment that she undertook the role, Suowari, asserted: “Fellow Journalists, Esteemed Colleagues, Friends, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who have placed your trust and confidence in me. Your unwavering support is the foundation upon which I will build, your continued guidance and collaboration will drive our success, and together, we will strive to achieve great things for our union and the profession we hold dear.

“As Journalists, we are the custodians of truth, the voice of the voiceless, and the watchdogs of society. In a time where misinformation spreads like wildfire and where the integrity of our profession is constantly under scrutiny, our role has never been more critical. It is a responsibility that we must approach with unwavering dedication and integrity.

“As Chairman, I will not make empty promises, but I can promise you this; I will be your voice, I will continue to fight for what is right, and most importantly, I will fight for our continued freedom to do what we do best- to tell the stories that needs to be told.

“I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to serve such a dedicated and prestigious body. Let us face the challenges ahead with courage and determination. Let us uphold the highest standards of journalism and continue to inform and empower our communities.

“Together, we can make this chapel a beacon of excellence and ensure that the voice of journalism remains strong.”

Delta State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade. Churchill Oyowe, in his address, said the inauguration of Fresh Angle International Newspaper Chapel, alongside its counterpart, marks a significant milestone in his leadership’s journey towards journalistic excellence and professional integrity.

Oyowe, averred: “Today, you have elected a new leader of this esteemed chapel. You have not just chosen individuals to fill positions; you have entrusted them with the responsibility to guide, inspire, and elevate your collective mission.

“The rigorous screening process conducted by the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) underscores the high standards and expectations we hold for our members. It is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and commitment that each one of you brings to the table.

“As we move forward, it is imperative that the new leadership embodies these values and works tirelessly to uphold the principles that define us. To those elected today, I commend your courage and willingness to serve.

“Leadership is not merely about holding a title; it is about being a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for progress. As you step into these roles, remember that your primary duty is to carry your members along, to listen to their voices, and to address their concerns with empathy and diligence.

“To the members of Fresh Angle Chapel, your role is equally crucial. Leadership thrives on the support and cooperation of its members. It is through your active participation, constructive feedback, and unwavering support that the chapel will flourish. Let us work hand in hand, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration, to achieve our shared goals.

“Together, we can create an environment where journalistic integrity is upheld, where professional growth is encouraged, and where the voices of our community are amplified. Let us embrace this new chapter with optimism and determination, knowing that the progress of Fresh Angle Chapel lies in our collective hands. In closing, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the new leadership team.

“May your tenure be marked by transparency, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to the values of the NUJ.

“Let us all pledge to support one another, to strive for excellence, and to make Fresh Angle Chapel a shining example of journalistic excellence in Delta State and beyond.”

Other members of the 7-man executive of Fresh Angle International Newspaper Chapel inaugurated by Comr. Churchill Oyowe, after Secretary of the State Council, Comr. Victor Sorokwu, administered the necessary Oath of Office, are, Chimaobi Nzoromob; Vice Chairman, Onyeka Lilian Adudu; Secretary, Ukah Chijioke Celestine; Asst. Secretary, Inana Anna Okeoghene; Treasurer, Victor C. Umukoro; Financial Secretary and Atu Lucky; Auditor.

 Otulu Clan Denies Alleged Police Invasion, Says Residents Enjoying Peace

**Says purveyors of misleading reports were agents of the devil with plans to disrupt existing peace in Otulu

The purported invasion of the Otulu Community in Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State, by suspected hoodlums, has been debunked by the leadership of the community, who explained that the purveyors of the misleading reports were agents of the devil with plans to disrupt existing peace in Otulu.

In a statement, the community leader, Obi Francis Medolunwa, and the Iyase of Otulu, Chief Christopher Isikekpei, the people declared that peace and harmony have reigned in the town for some time, explaining that the invasion as claimed by the reports, was an operation carried out by the police to arrest some suspected dissidents and miscreants causing instability in the community.

They also asserted that the police did not want Obi Medolunwa as he had cleared himself and had been a freeman after police investigations and reports.

Reacting to the media reports that quoted a ghost personality by the pseudo name Elder Chukwudi Anozie that ASP Dan Musa, a police officer from Abuja, led the invasion, the people of Otulu contended that the officers merely executed the directive of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrest those alleged to by perpetrating one crime or the other.

The police visit and arrest was an off-shoot of a petition dated August 15, 2024, addressed to the IGP and signed by Obi Medolunwa and Chief Isikekpei.

The statement traced the feud in the community to an attempt by their neighbours, including Ogwashi-Uku, to forcefully annex Otulu as part of their clan, despite a Supreme Court judgment in suit no. SC/293/1973, which affirmed the suit no. A/9/67 of the Mid-Western State High Court of Justice, Asaba Division that neither the Issele Clan, Ubulu Clan nor Ogwashi-Uku Clan proved they owned the Otulu community.

They stated that the continued incursions into the Otulu community prompted several protests since 2021, adding that there were also unprovoked attacks on the Otulu community by their neighbours and the killing of innocent citizens of indigenes.

They also recalled how Obi of Ogwashi Uku allegedly besieged the Otulu community with security agents and some native doctors, under the guise of performing cleansing and rituals at the center of Otulu, adding that all the actions, especially the gruesome murder of a youth. Mr Cletus Okpala allegedly by one Nnamdi, triggered further protests and culminated in the installation and coronation of Obi Francis Medolunwa to lead the people, which did not go down well with the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.

They stated that Obi Mdolunwa had honoured the invitation by the DSS and police in Asaba and Abuja, adding that the circumstances leading to his being declared wanted by the police had been resolved in his favour and he had been moving about as a free man.

They condemned the media reports that alleged that the Obi Medolunwa was still wanted by the police, adding that he cannot be a wanted person and submitting a petition to the police to arrest those causing trouble in the Otulu community.

The statement also denied that the Otulu community gave the police N20m to protect Obi Medounwa or to arrest criminals operating in the community, adding that the police visited the community to perform their duty.

However, they regretted that one of those arrested during the operation, Anthony Enurah has been released by the police and walking around claiming that he is above the law.

They described Elder Anozie, who presented himself as an indigene of the community, as a faceless individual and wondered how he presented himself before the press to canvass and publish falsehood against the Otulu community.

They pleaded with the state government and the police authority to continue with the painstaking investigations already being undertaken to unravel the real cause of the problem and recognize Otulu as an autonomous community.

Omu Obior Celebrates 2024 New Yam Festival In Grand-style

By: Patrick Ochei

The amiable Omu of Obior community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, HRH Omu Onyebuchibe Okonkwo has dazzled her people and guests as she celebrated her annual new yam festival in grand-style.

Omu Okonkwo on Thursday 26th September, 2024, gathered who is who in Anioma, including her Traditional Ruler, HRM Obi Kingsley Ofuokwu 11, Chief Baje of Idumuje-Unor and many others to join her to celebrate.

She especially appreciated God and her Ancestors for the gift of life and productive land of Obior that has brought forth bountiful harvest of farm produce for the year.

The Omu prayed for continual peace on Obior land, the unity of her people and more progress in the years to come.

It was an exceptional new yam festival as the people were sumptuously entertained with good food and enough to drink. The traditional music, accompanied by the flutes (Akpele) of Emeka of Obomkpa and Dike of Issele-Uku was not left out as the Omu and her well wishers danced gracefully to the admiration of all that stood to watch.

Alleged N33.8bn Fraud: Witness Narrates How Ex-Minister, Mamman Ordered Multiple Cash Transfers into13 Unauthorized Entities

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, commenced the trial of Ex-Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, for an alleged N33.8billion fraud with the presentation of its first witness.

Mamman was arraigned on Thursday, July 11, 2024, on 12-count charges bordering on conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of N33,804,830,503.73 (Thirty-Three Billion, Eight Hundred and Four Million, Eight Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Three Naira, Seventy-Three Kobo).

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Prosecution witness One, PW1, Abubakar Kweido, an operative of the EFCC while being led in evidence by Adeyinka Olumide Fusika, SAN, narrated how investigation activities reviewed that multiple monetary transfers were made from the project account meant for Mambilla hydroelectric power project into various companies with the aid of bureau de change operators into foreign currencies, Naira and bank transfers to over 13 entities.

Kweido said there was an intelligence assigned to his team, alleging that funds meant for the power plant were diverted through conspiracy by top officials in power. The funds, he said, were a loan granted to Nigeria by China’s Exim bank and the period of the investigation was from 2019 to 2023.

“At the time investigations were carried out, the defendant was the Minister of Power between 2019 to 2021. We commenced the investigation by writing letters of investigation to different Ministries and Agencies of the Government and various commercial banks, the responses received reviewed that he authorized the payment to some contractors and companies using One Joint Venture of Tractebel and De-Crown Projects Ltd and Sino Hydro Groups.

De-Crown projects Ltd was used as a project consultant, and Sino Hydro Groups was the engineering procurement contractor. Our investigation revealed that huge amount of money from the project account of Mambila was sent to different entities that were not authorized on the project, we then wrote letters of investigation activities to the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation for Mambila and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant Projects. We also submitted the Award Letters of the authorized contractors and we received response letters by the two authorized contractors, De-Crown Projects and Sino Hydro Groups” he said. The letters and responses were tendered and admitted as PWA.

In addition, four Letters from the Office of the Accountant General comprising account statements and responses were tendered and admitted in evidence as PWb2 and PWb3

Continuing, “When we analyzed the responses, we saw that over N33.8bn from the project account were sent to over 13 entities that are not the authorized contact, some of them are “Prymint Investment Ltd, Gurupche Business Enterprise, Shipikin Global Enterprises, Silverline Ventures, Intech Nigeria Ltd, Breathable Investment Ltd, First Class Contraction Ltd, Spinhillls Biz International Ltd, Fulex Utility Concept Ltd, Platinum Enterprise among others”.
We also requested the bank record of the accounts from Corporate Affairs and other Commercial banks which revealed that the persons behind the operation of these entities were mainly Maina Goje, Abdulahi Suleiman and Abdulahi Garba. We invited them to account for the funds they received from the Mambila project account. They reported to our office where they informed us that they have never applied for any contract with the Federal Ministry of Power or the Federal Government. They said they were bureau de change operatives. They also mentioned that all the monies received were disbursed based on the instructions of one Mustapha Abubakar Dida. The disbursements were usually in foreign currencies, Naira cash and sometimes via bank transfers”.

He revealed that Mustapha Dida was the Project Accountant of Manbilla Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant Projects and they denied knowing him or the boss, as it was one Mrs Bawo Idris whom they referred to as Yaro was the only person they had physical contact with.

“So we invited Mrs Bawo Idris, and she volunteered her statement where she mentioned that she was the personal assistant to the defendant at that time. She also informed us that she also received instructions from the defendant for disbursement which is from his First Bank and GTB accounts. Also, one of the accounts that received money from the project account is Sammie Court Resource Ltd. We contacted them and their managing director who he reported and informed us that the said payments were for the rent of a bedroom apartment. He also informed us in writing that the defendant was the one using the apartment. Some other accounts that benefited include Vintage Nigeria Ltd, Abdulahi Suleiman, Fullest Utility Concept, Firstclass Contraction and Project, Golden Bond Nig Ltd, AIJ Global, Usman Isah, Abdulkareem Danladi.

The matter was adjourned to October 9, 2024, for continuation of trial.

Egbetokun praises NFF for Dedication to Football Development 

The Inspector General of Police, Dr. Olukayode Egbetokun on Wednesday heaped praises on the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation for their palpable dedication and commitment to the cause of football development in Nigeria, insisting that football is a game that unites all Nigerians across all known physical, mental and economic boundaries.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by a team of NFF chieftains led by the President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Egbetokun admitted that crime rate does decline around the country whenever any National Team or Club of choice of football adherents are on duty.

“The Nigeria Police Force recognizes and appreciates the potential of football to work wonders for national unity, social cohesion and economic growth. In truth, football has the capacity to take criminals away from the streets. It is no gainsaying that we record lower incidences of crime when football teams are doing their business.

“We promise to continue to support you to develop the game in our country to an excellent level, as we look forward to a more robust relationship with your organization.”

Earlier, the NFF President commended the Inspector General for swiftness at all times in deploying officers, men and materials to venues of football matches in the country, from the low cadres of the league to international matches.

“We are here because we appreciate the importance of security in all our activities, programmes and events. This is to physically express our deep appreciation for the job you have been doing in readily sending officers, men and materials to secure the venues of football matches in the country. Your officers and men have been doing excellent work for us.

“Our country is one of football-passionate citizens. We also plead with the Inspector General to revive the Police Football Team that was very strong in those days, and also to consider giving a special quota to sportsmen and women who want to enlist in the Police Force.”

Gusau thereafter informed the Inspector General that the world football-governing body, FIFA will soon dispatch to its Member Associations a new template for securing football venues, and that the NFF will need to provide special training in that regard to officers and men of the Force who are dedicated to providing security at match venues.

Present at the occasion were the top echelon of the Nigeria Police Force including four Deputy Inspectors-General, as well as NFF 1st Vice President Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu; NFF 2nd Vice President Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye; Chairman of Technical Committee, Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa; General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi; Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire; Director of Competitions, Ruth David; Head of Security, Barnabas Joro; AD Protocol, Emmanuel Ayanbunmi and; Abubakar Barde, special assistant to NFF President.

Media Aide To Delta Commissioner, Bruno to Bury Father Friday September 27-29

The family of late Mr. Francis Iweluegim Amamosa of Okpe-Abavo, Ika south local government area of Delta State, has announced arrangements for his burial rites.

The invitation card made available to Areanewsng.com  by the son, Mr. Jude Bruno, the Media Assistant to the Commissioner for Secondary Education, said the funeral arrangements will begin on September 27, 2024.

The invite disclosed that the body of late Francis Amamosa, would leave Mother and Child Hospital mortuary, Owa-Alero, in Ika North East on Friday September for his home town for interment

It further revealed that on Saturday September 28, 2024, at 1:00pm, there would be entertainment of guests at Azuowa Primary School, Okpe-Abavo.

While on Sunday September 29, 2024, by 8:30am, there would be thanksgiving service at Worshippers of God Int’l ministries, Okpe-Abavo.

Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation Supports Next Generation of Football Talent in Kwara

Nottingham Forest and Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, is proud to announce the Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation’s support for the Kwara Kiddies League.

Through his foundation, Awoniyi will present sets of jerseys to all participating teams in the league.

As a Dettol ambassador, Awoniyi has also secured support from the leading hygiene brand, which will provide essential gifts to the young athletes.

This partnership underscores Awoniyi’s commitment to promoting health, hygiene, and sports development among Nigeria’s youth.

The jersey presentation ceremony will take place on Sat. Sept. 28 at the Kwara Football Academy.

Additionally, Awoniyi will launch the “Wyscout Camera” initiative, aimed at showcasing the talents of Kwara Kiddies League players to a global audience.

To further support the well-being of the young athletes, Awoniyi’s foundation will introduce a meal program, providing a nutritious meal to each player.

It would be recalled that the striker signed a 3 year deal with the league organisers in June to help develop young aspiring footballers in Kwara to provide them the opportunity to achieve their dreams of playing professional football at the highest level.

Suleiman Atunrase
Secretary, Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation

Delta Speaker Hails Journalists, Says They Are Major Partners In Nation Building

**Commends ICC for effective coverage of Assembly activities

Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, has commended the services of journalists in the state, describing them as major partners in nation building.

Guwor handed this commendation on Wednesday, September 25, at the his office in the Assembly complex when he received in courtesy members of the Indigenous Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council.

The speaker who expresses satisfaction with the activities of journalists in the state, noted that if the journalists is not there to publish the activities of the House, the public will not be able to know and understand what is happening in the house and in government. He said; “Journalists are great stakeholders in the activities of the state Assembly and we will continually partner with you to change the narrative”.

Earlier in his speech, Chairman of Indigenous Correspondent Chapel, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, on behalf of members, congratulated the Speaker for his leadership qualities and for having one of the most peaceful and effective legislature across Nigeria in the past one year. He also congratulated him on his emergence as the speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

Highlighting some of the aims of the visit, Comrade. Orusi, noted that the Indigenous Correspondent Chapel being Indigenous that basically work closely with the grassroot people, there is the need to partner with the state legislature by way of transmitting and reporting factually the activities and events of the state House of Assembly back to the grassroot. He also stated that visit is also to solicit and appeal to the Speaker and the House to give serious backing and support to the governor in ensuring that the newly created Directorate of Riverine Infrastructure become a substantial Ministry that will not fade out at the expiration of the Sheriff Oborevwori administration.

While commending the Speaker and the House for services and representation so far, Comrade. Orusi, called on the speaker to ensure that the Anti Grazing Bill that has been passed into law by the House is implemented fully as cattle herders still walk freely with their cows in public places and farms destroying crops and causing Deltans a lot of pains.

Responding, Rt. Hon. Guwor, assured that he will give all the necessary supports to the state Governor to see how the directorate can become functional and substantial. He said having come from the Riverine Area, he is aware of the needs and challenges of his people and would want to see how such challenges could be reduced, and ensure such ministry is created to carter for the riverine people.

On the Anti Grazing law, Guwor, stated that implementation lies with the executive but, disclosed that the house have a compliance committee which is headed by the Deputy Speaker whom he also said has been doing a lot in ensuring the law is implemented. He promised that House will do all within their powers to collaborate with the executive and see how the law will be implemented.

Rt. Hon. Guwor appreciated journalists, and maintained that their visit has added values and colors to the activities of the Assembly.

DOPF Chair, Enebeli calls for legislative action to regulate exorbitant rent rates, Introduction of CNG buses, tricycles in Delta

**As Group visit DTHA Speaker, Guwor gets his pledge on better laws for Deltans

The Chairman, Delta Online Publishers Forum, DOPF, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli has called for legislative action to regulate exorbitant rent prices, which have become a significant burden on residents of Asaba the Delta State Capital.

Comrade Enebeli made this known Wednesday September 25, 2024, during a meeting with members of the Delta Online Publishers’ Forum (DOPF) at the Assembly complex in Asaba, emphasing the importance of affordable housing solutions for both locals and potential investors. The DOPF Boss also touched on transportation issues, advocating for the introduction of CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) buses and tricycles to lower commuting costs for residents across the length and breadth of Delta State.

The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, pledged the the Assembly’s dedication to enacting laws aimed at improving the well-being of citizens across the state.

Guwor, in his remark, underscored the Legislature’s critical role as the “core of democracy”, noting that it is the only government arm comprised of elected representatives entrusted with making laws to ensure peace, order, and good governance. He noted that under his leadership, the current Assembly has passed several key bills, many of which have already been signed into law by the Governor. Further assuring that the House Committee on Legislative Compliance, chaired by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, is actively ensuring the laws are effectively implemented.

Speaking on contemporary challenges such as housing, transportation, and the rising cost of living, the Speaker clarified that these matters largely fall under the Executives jurisdiction. However, he expressed the Assembly’s readiness to collaborate with other arms of government to address these pressing issues.

Rt. Hon. Guwor, commended the Delta Online Publishers’ Forum for its role in the state’s development, describing the media as a crucial pillar of democracy, stressing the importance of a strong relationship between the Assembly and the media to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of legislative activities.

“We encourage the media to seek clarifications on legislative matters directly from the Assembly to prevent misinformation and stop the spread of fake news,” Guwor added.

The Speaker also reassured the DOPF of the Assembly’s commitment to addressing the needs of Delta residents and praised the media’s efforts in fostering balanced and transparent reportage of legislative processes.

Earlier, the Chairman of the DOPF, Emmanuel Enebeli, commended Guwor’s dynamic leadership during the first year of the 8th Assembly, praising the legislative strides made and the smooth cooperation with other government bodies, particularly in advancing the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda.

Enebeli also lauded the Assembly’s efforts to address security concerns, specifically the farmer-herder clashes impacting farming communities, but he urged more action on this front.

“The ongoing clashes between farmers and herders have disrupted agricultural activities and worsened food insecurity in several parts of the state. While we appreciate the Assembly’s efforts, more needs to be done to ensure farmers can access their lands safely, especially in areas like Ughelli North, Ethiope East, Ukwuani, and Ika South Local Government Areas,” he remarked.

He also called for the activation of the Delta State Community Security Agency law, which was passed in 2020, to bolster security in rural communities. The Forum, additionally, urged the Assembly to enact laws compelling local government authorities to prioritise waste management, as improper disposal and blocked drainage systems continue to pose serious environmental risks.

The Speaker was also of the DOPF’s upcoming Annual Lecture, themed “Security Challenges: Finding a Local Implementable Solution,” scheduled for 20th November 2024, expressed the forum’s commitment to working with the Assembly to create a more secure and prosperous Delta State.