2024 Kurutie Amafinide Uge Festival: TANTITA MD, Chief Pondi honoured for outstanding contributions to humanity, Community Development

High Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Limited, has been celebrated for his outstanding contributions to humanity and community development with an Award of Excellence presented during the grand finale of the Kurutie Annual Amafinide Uge Festival.

The prestigious honor was conferred by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, on behalf of the Kurutie community. The award highlighted High Chief Pondi’s exemplary dedication to advancing human and community welfare.

Presenting the award, Rt. Hon. Guwor praised High Chief Pondi’s commitment, describing him as a symbol of selfless service whose initiatives have significantly impacted the Kurutie community and its surroundings.

The Amafinide Uge Festival, a vibrant cultural event showcasing Kurutie’s heritage, provided a fitting platform to acknowledge High Chief Pondi and other distinguished individuals for their efforts in improving lives and driving development.

The recognition was warmly received with applause from the audience, solidifying High Chief Pondi’s reputation as a visionary leader whose philanthropic actions continue to inspire positive change across communities.

Six Months after Supreme Court judgement on Nigeria’s LGCs autonomy: Don’t allow cabals derail LG autonomy, NULGE Appeals to Tinubu

Six months after the Supreme Court granted financial autonomy to local governments in the country, the implementation of the judgment has yet to take effect, Sunday PUNCH findings have revealed.

On July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment affirming the financial autonomy of the 774 local government areas in the country and prohibiting governors from further control of funds meant for the councils.

The apex court also directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to pay local government allocations directly to their accounts, declaring the non-remittance of funds by the 36 states unconstitutional.

However, six months after the judgment, financial autonomy has yet to take effect.

Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, the President of the National Union of Local Government Employees, Hakeem Ambali, said the Federation Account Allocation Committee was responsible for the delay in direct allocations to local governments.

“There is a delay because FAAC has not given the instruction. ALGON is ready to comply with every instruction. In fact, the CBN itself can do that directly.

“The point is, there is a judgment, and since it is a Supreme Court judgment, there should be no confusion about that. FAAC itself should know what is right. We are calling on Mr President to please stand on business. We are happy with what he has been doing,” Ambali said.

He pleaded with President Tinubu to ensure that politicians did not frustrate local government autonomy.

“This is already six months since the government secured the landmark judgment.

“The technical committee that was set up has sent the document to the President. We concluded the process over a month ago. We are grateful that the President started well, but we need him to please stand and see the implementation to completion. The President should not allow cabals to come in the way of implementation,” the NULGE president said.

The Federal Government had, on August 20, instituted a 10-member inter-ministerial committee to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.

The committee’s primary goal was to ensure that local governments were granted full autonomy, allowing them to function effectively without interference from state governments.

Sunday PUNCH learnt that the implementation document by the technical committee had been transmitted to President Tinubu for assent.

If assented to, local governments nationwide will receive their allocations directly from FAAC.

We won’t take for granted anything that would affect security of lives, property  – SSG warns 

Delta State Government, Friday, warned that it would not take for granted, any matter that could affect the security of lives and property in the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Dr Kingsley Emu, gave the warning, while addressing protesters from the Ubulu-Okiti community in Aniocha South Local Government Area at Government House, Asaba.

The protesters, who were in their numbers, and carried placards with various inscriptions, were on a peaceful protest over the activities of land grabbers in their communities.

Dr Emu commended the protesters for their peaceful disposition, assuring that the government would look into the matter comprehensively once the Commission of Enquiry’s report was presented.

“We have listened to your complaints, and the governor, in his wisdom, through the State Security Council, has actually set up a Commission of Enquiry to look into most of these allegations that have been brewing with everything pointing towards the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Ifechukwude Okonjo.

“The security council has since invited him; thereafter, he was asked to stay away from all of these until the Commission of Enquiry concludes their assignment.

“Luckily, they are almost concluding their assignment, and, in January by the special grace of God, they would have been through and the government will do the normal thing of going through the recommendations.

“This legitimacy claims will be sorted out by the panel of inquiry headed by a serving judge of the state. The Committee is also made up of very reputable and responsible people who do not have any personal interest and will never have.

“They are not people that can be bought over. So, I appeal to you to remain patient for another maximum two months and everything shall be over.

“We note very strongly the use of the Police from Zone 5 to torment and harass you, as you have alleged; the Governor and the state will look into that.

“Please, don’t take the law into your hand because, if you do, you won’t be helping us and yourselves; very soon, this matter shall be resolved, by the grace of God.

“After the Commission submits its result, the government will look at it and take a stern position on this matter because any matter that can affect the security of this state cannot be taken for granted.

“Times are hard enough for the people not to talk of adding another affliction on them: Governor Oborevwori is a Governor for all – the rich, the poor, the middle class, the common people and the royals; that’s who the Governor stands for.

“Part of our MORE Agenda is enhanced peace and security; so, we cannot fold our hands and see this kind of thing happen; that is why we are particularly happy with the way you have come.”

Earlier, the leader of the protesters and Youth President of Ubulu-Okiti community, Ifechukwude Nwabuebo, alleged that; “For over two years now, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukude Okonjo and his brother, Prince Onyema and the family of Okonjo has been in our community land, grading and selling our land.

“If we protest, he will use thugs to chase us away from our land and our parents are no longer going to farm.

“The latest one now is that he came to Ubulu-Okiti, Ubulu-Uku and Aniagbala around 1 am in the midnight, broke into our houses, beat up our wives and carried away our fathers to Zone 5 for the past seven days.

“Since then till date, they have refused to grant them bail; so, we have come to the government to appeal to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene to release our fathers.

“We have been suffering for over two years and we are begging the government to intervene in this matter to tell the Okonjo family to leave Ubulu clan alone.

“We are not under Ogwashi-Uku clan; we are on our own- Ubulu-Uku, Ubulu-Unor, Ubulu-Okiti and Aniagbala is not the same clan with Ogwashi-Uku and they are now trying to take us as slaves which we have refused, hence we are here, sir.”

Engr. Olaide FC Annihilates Afase FC 4-0 To Emerge Champions of Barrier Football Academy End-Of-The-Year Championship

Engr Laide FC annihilated Afase FC 4-0 as they coasted to polish and bravery victory as they emerged the champions of Barrier Football Academy end-of-the-year championship.

The pulsating one sided encounter was played at Barrier Football Academy pitch on Thursday.

Engr Laide FC started brightly in the early minutes of the game as they showed more of their attacking intent marauding the opponents defence on several occasions.

The victorious side were clinical in front of goal scoring four beautiful goals to complete the rout over Afase FC.

The victory put Engr Laide FC first on the log with six points and six goals claiming the coveted trophy.

In the second game of the day, Otunba Kayode Bankole defeated Amb Tunji Gambari 2-1 in a keenly contested encounter.

Both teams needed a win to fight for the championship title as they showed their worth with power, energy and strength.

However, it was Amb Tunji Gambari who were more purposeful knowing that a win with wide goal margins will be enough for them.

Otunba Kayode Bankole FC showed their scintillating performance to snatch the important victory but missed out on the title on goal difference.

And after the final three round of matches, Engr. Laide FC tops the group with six points and six goals, Amb Tunji Gambari in the second position with six points and three goals, Otunba Kayode Bankole with six points and one goal while Afase FC were rocked bottom as they recorded no points.

Meanwhile, Engr Laide FC were emerged the champions of the Barrier Football Academy end-of-the-year championship.

In the same vein, the old players and current players of the academy will square up in a novelty match to mark the end of the year celebrations.

The match is slated for Monday 30th, December, 2024 and will hold at Barrier FA, field at 3pm.

The Head coach of the Academy, coach Taofeek Babatunde revealed that, refreshments will follow at the same venue.

The Barrier Football Academy end-of-the-year championship was organized to honor and celebrate those who have been contributing immensely to the growth of the Academy and achievements and success of 2024.

Abia Warriors (Umu Chineke) Set For Bayelsa United Encounter this weekend

Ahead of the Matchday 19 fixture of the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League against Bayelsa United, Abia Warriors of Umuahia have arrived Yenagoa, venue of the encounter.

Umu Chineke will have a light workout at the Samson Siasia Stadium this evening, to be in good stead for the all important encounter against the Ladan Bosso tutored Restoration Boys.

Still basking in the euphoria of their 2-0 victory over Ikorodu City FC at the Umuahia Township Stadium in their last league encounter, Umu Chineke will look to sustain the momentum against Bayelsa United.

The last league encounter between the two sides at the Samson Siasia Stadium saw the home side come from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with the Warriors in December, 2023.

Saturday’s game promises to be an exciting one as the Umuahia Warlords will look to get one over their former Head Coach, Ladan Bosso.

Head To Head (Last 5 Games)

20/04/24 AWFC 1-0 BUFC
03/12/23 BUFC 2-2 AWFC
02/04/23 BUFC 5-1 AWFC
18/01/23 AWFC 3-1 BUFC
28/10/15 BUFC 1-0 AWFC

Injury Update

Odinaka Anaeto, Prince Okorie and Chinemerem Meme Okike are the injury concerns at the moment for the Warriors.

Abia Warriors will lock horns with Bayelsa United on Saturday, 28th December 2024, by 4pm at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.

Urhobo Renaissance Society affirms commitment to Promoting Urhobo Culture, Language

By Odeya Ogbetuo

Urhobo Renaissance Society (URS), a socio-cultural organization has affirmed its commitment in promoting and preserving Urhobo culture, language and tradition to enable the present and future generations to have a clear identity and be able to speak Urhobo language fluently with pride.

In his welcome address during the 2024 URS Conference at Urhobo House, Uvwiamuge-Agharho in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, the president of Urhobo Renaissance Society, Professor Hope Eghagha said that since the formation of URS in 2017, the Association has been committed to the interest of Urhobo people with the aims of advancing and promoting the Urhobo language, culture, welfare and socio-economic activity of the Urhobo people in all spheres.

Speaking further on the 2024 conference with the theme “Re-thinking Urhobo Origin and Migration, Cuisine and Marriage Rites, Professor Eghagha said that apart from promoting Urhobo culture and language, URS since inception has continued to engage the Nigerian state by joining in stimulating national discussions on restructuring, seaports, the place of minority in the affairs of Nigerian state, stressing that it has also joined in conversation relating to education, agriculture and economic prospects.

Professor Eghagha stated that Urhobo is one of the oldest tribes in Nigeria which has survived for several centuries passing down their rich heritage despite the pressures of modernization.

According to him “We are concerned about the place of Urhobo in the state and National politics, the state of Nigerian nation, investment opportunities in Urhobo land.

We are also concerned about the relationship between URS and other associations and empowerment of Urhobo people. To pursue a radical development of the Urhobo Nation while respecting the integrity and rights of our neighbours. To enhance the tradition, custom and culture of Urhobo people. To institute discipline, self-reliance, patriotism, unity of purpose and selfless defence of Urhobo unity and integrity as ethics of the URS, as well as to create and foster the spirit of understanding and unity among the Urhobo people wherever they are.”

He urged Urhobo parents to speak Urhobo language to their children wherever they are and also give Urhobo names to their children to preserve the language and culture.

Professor Eghagha disclosed that Urhobo people did not originate from Benin but migrated from Benin where they formerly settled centuries ago to their present locations.

The Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori represented by Olorogun Emmanuel Agwariavwodo commended the Urhobo Progress Union and Urhobo Renaissance Society for their efforts and commitment in preserving Urhobo language and culture. He urged Urhobo parents to speak the language from age 1 to 10 years and beyond for the young ones to be able to speak Urhobo language.

“Both UPU and URS have a duty to ensure Urhobo language is spoken and taught in primary and secondary schools in Urhobo land.”

He advised the UPU and URS to draw closer to Governor Oborevwori, stressing that the Governor is ready to listen to their suggestions and also ready to assist in the development of Urhobo land.

The President General of Urhobo Progress Union, Olorogun Barr. Ese Gam Owe said that UPU is for all Urhobo sons and daughters and urged them to identify with Urhobo activities, appealing to them to always attend Urhobo National Conference every December.

He commended the URS for their commitment and donations to flood victims and the Okuama community tragedy.

“Nobody should undermine the unity of Urhobo nation. We have taken the CDS, the Nigerian Army and F.G to Court over the illegal invasion and killing of Okuama people in Ughelli South L.G.A and we are pursuing the case.”

The occasion was attended by some Urhobo traditional rulers and other important personalities.

The chairman of the organizing committee, Chief Emma Avworo said that URS focuses on areas that would improve the socio-economic well-being of Urhobo people apart from promoting unity, cultural heritage, language and preservation of custom and tradition of Urhobo people.

He stated that URS has been carrying out programmes that will enhance Urhobo living standard through donations, enlightenment and awareness creation through social platforms among others.

Several lectures were delivered such as ‘Urhobo Origin and Migration’ by Professor Andrew Onoaware Edevbie, ‘Urhobo Cuisines and Marriage Rites’ by Professor Rose Aziza.

The president generals of the 24 Kingdoms in Urhobo land also gave talks on their kingdoms.

Special Adviser on Community Development to Delta Governor, Dr. Agbolaya preaches love, Unity at Christmas

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Amb. Dr. Toyin Agbolaya JP has called on Christians to use the Christmas period to pray for love, unity and continuous peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

The Special Adviser also urged Christians to pray for the Governor Oborevwori, Delta State and Nigeria o overcome the myriad of challenges facing her, especially the issue of insecurity.

Dr. Agbolaya, While rejoicing with Deltans and Nigerian Christians for marking this year’s Christmas, called on them to imbibe the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom he described as a role model to all.

Dr. Agbolaya also notes that Nigerians should use the period to pray for their leaders for God’s guidance.

According to him Periods like this calls for sober reflection,Deltans and Nigerians must be their brothers’ keepers at all times.

He added that Nigerians, irrespective of where they come from, must work towards achieving the dreams of the founding fathers, who made a lot of sacrifices for us to be in one state

Dr. Agbolaya wished Governor Oborevwori and all Deltans a merry Christmas.

Christmas: Oborevwori congratulates Deltans, Christians as they mark birth of Jesus Christ says better days ahead

As the Christmas season envelopes the nation in its warm festive embrace, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has sent a heartfelt message of hope, unity, and goodwill to the people of the state.

Governor Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, took a moment to reflect on the significance of the season, emphasizing its deeper meaning beyond the celebrations.

Governor Oborevwori extended his warm wishes to all Deltans and other Nigerians as they mark the birth of Jesus Christ.

He highlighted Christmas as a time to embrace love, peace, and harmony, and called on everyone to set aside primordial divisions and focus on the collective progress of the country.

“Christmas is not just a time for merriment; it is a season of reflection and renewal,” the governor remarked.

He added, “it reminds us of the boundless love and selflessness that Jesus Christ demonstrated during his time on Earth.

“As we celebrate this season, I urge all Deltans to embody these virtues in their daily lives by fostering unity, peace, and understanding across our state and the nation.”

Governor Oborevwori urged Christians to use the occasion to pray fervently for a more peaceful and united Delta State and Nigeria.

He said, “our nation is at a critical juncture. But with collective prayers, determination, and hard work, we can overcome the challenges we face and emerge stronger.”

The governor also reassured the people of Delta State of his administration’s unwavering commitment to actively sustain their welfare.

Reflecting on the progress made during the year, he expressed gratitude for the prevailing peace in the state, which, he noted, had laid the foundation for sustainable development.

He said; “my administration is dedicated to pursuing people-oriented policies and programmes that will improve the standard of living for all Deltans.

“As we approach 2025, I assure you of better days ahead. Our focus remains on equitable development, job creation, and fostering an environment where every Deltan can thrive.

“With the collaborative efforts of our government and citizens, we will continue to grow, innovate, and create opportunities for all.”

Governor Oborevwori extended his warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to Deltans and Nigerians, saying, “May the joy of this season fill your homes, and may the coming year bring renewed hope, prosperity, and fulfillment for all.”