AGBOR
DESPITE the seeming perception of a diminishing spread of HIV/AIDS with the advent of new viruses, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has warned that the scourge remains dangerous to humans, incurable and still prevalent in Nigeria.
At an event to commemorate the 2024 World AIDS Day in Agbor, Delta State, the federal agency held a sensitization programme on creating awareness on the dangers of HIV/ AIDS and measures for its prevention and control.
Organised in collaboration with Gibert Hill Foundation, the programme had the theme “Take the right paths: My health, my right.”
Warning against the thinking that the dangers of HIV/ AIDS are diminishing, Dr. Usama Ejiro of Delta State Ministry of Health said HIV/AIDS remains a dangerous and life threatening disease that is still actively spreading in communities. However, she noted that the spread could be prevented and controlled through enlightenment campaigns, safety measures and proper health management control.
Dr. Ejiro said the need for individuals to understand their health status has become very necessary as that would help them to know their health condition.
Also speaking at the occasion, Delta State’s representative at the commission, Mrs. Irene Emowodia, said the essence of the awareness campaign was to educate the people on the need to know their health status. “The HIV/AIDS sensitization exercise is in line with the vision to eradicate the spread of the deadly disease in the society,” she said.
Mrs. Emowodia pledged that the NDDC will continue to prioritize the welfare of the people in the region by ensuring that they live and enjoy a conducive, healthy and safe region.
In her remarks, Mrs Grace Alekwe of the Department of Community Health, Ika South Local Government Council who spoke on the advantages of family planning and birth control in the society, told participants at the programme to understand the need for child spacing and birth control in a modern society.
The sensitization programme was followed with a free medical test exercise on HIV/AIDS and was part of the commission’s efforts to carry out community sensitization and screening exercise in the Niger Delta region.
2027: Stakeholders Declare Support For Oborevwori
OTOR-IGHO
TOP politicians in Delta State, including the Chairman, Isoko North LGA, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba, the Director Finance and Administration, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Kome Okpobor; the State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Organizing Secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor; the Special Assistant to the State Governor, Hon. Chief Emmanuel Okpomor, a former Isoko North State Assembly aspirant, Hon. Engr. Ashaka Orobosah; Engr. Ajiri Osifihor among others have publicly declared their support for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s re-election in 2027.
This declaration was made during a ‘thank-you’ ceremony hosted by the Chairman of Isoko North, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba, at his country home in Otor-Igho Community, to appreciate his Otibio Ward 13 people for their support and prayers before, during and after the last local government election, where they affirmed their commitment to Oborevwori’s second term bid, emphasizing “No Vacancy in Government House 2027, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori re-election is not negotiable”
They cited Oborevwori’s achievements through the MORE Agenda in Delta State particularly in Isoko Nation to include; completion of Isoko -Ughelli Road Dualization, establishment of College of Medicine at Southern Delta University Ozoro, Conversion of Delta State University of Science and Technology to a full-fledged University, Construction of Emevor- Orogun phase 1 and phase 2 Road, Construction of internal roads at Ellu community, Establishment of College of Health Technology Ovrode, among others.
In his remark, the Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba further highlighted some of his achievements in just five months in office in consolidating the MORE Agenda of the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as: Construction of 15 Lockup shops and 4 toilets at Ofagbe big market, the ongoing Construction of Administrative complex at the council Secretariat, the ongoing Renovation of 50 open stores at Otor-Owhe community market , Rehabilitation of Otor-Owhe -Owhelogbo Road, rehabilitation of failed portions of Otor-Iyede Road, tilling of offices in Isoko North council Secretariat, renovation of the Chairman’s Lodge, distribution of free notebooks, bags and shoes to the 43 public primary schools, distribution of soya milk to boost Children’s nutrition in Isoko North LGA, perimeter fencing at Erovie community, Ozoro among others.
Delta PPRO Advises Victims Of Domestic Violence
ASABA
DELTA State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, has issued a counsel to victims of domestic abuse, urging them to prioritize their safety and well-being by escaping toxic relationships.
In a post, Edafe emphasized that marriage is meant to be enjoyed, not endured, and highlighted the devastating consequences of abusive marriages, including domestic violence and death.
Edafe stressed that physical abuse can often lead to death and that victims must recognize the warning signs and take immediate action to protect themselves.
This warning came as statistics revealed an alarming rise in domestic violence-related fatalities.
He said the notion of “he will change” is a dangerous myth, perpetuating a cycle of abuse that can have deadly consequences.
Edafe urged persons in such situations to create a safety plan, seek support from trusted friends, family, or counsellors, prioritize self-care, and familiarize themselves with local laws and regulations regarding domestic violence.
Ighrakpata Praises Uvwie Monarch For Promoting Unity, Rich Cultural Heritage
EFFURUN
THE Chairman of the Internal Revenue Service, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, has praised the developmental strides of the Ovie of Uvwie, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1, stating that his vision is in harmony with the MORE Agenda of the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Speaking at the recent 17th Uvwie Day celebration held at the Urhobo College playground, Effurun, Chief Ighrakpata emphasized the significance of the event as a platform for fostering unity and showcasing the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage.
“The Uvwie Day celebration unites Uvwie sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora, alongside non-indigenes, including the Hausa, Yoruba, Igalla, and Edo communities. It is a day to display our agricultural prowess, celebrate our heritage, and advocate for peace and unity. We need collective effort to drive progress in Uvwie and Delta State,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements of the monarch, Chief Ighrakpata noted that Uvwie has witnessed remarkable transformation under the Ovie’s reign. “The king came in with a clear vision, and to God be the glory, he is achieving it. Uvwie now enjoys peace, development, and an influx of companies. With the MORE Agenda of Governor Oborevwori, Uvwie has become an investment hub of Delta State,” he added.
Chief Ighrakpata also urged Uvwie youths to pursue excellence, taking inspiration from the awardees of the day, Cmdr. Hetty Ofugara Oraka-Onojeje and Professor Mercy Onaodowan Erhun. “Today, we celebrate distinguished accomplishments. I urge our youth to emulate them and strive for greatness,” he remarked.
The Chairman of the Board of Delta Broadcasting Service, Chief Moses Odibo, emphasized the unity fostered by the Uvwie Day celebration. “This event is a peace-building process that unites Uvwie sons, daughters, and their neighbors in celebrating our shared heritage. This cell is peaceful, so this part of the state will automatically be peaceful. Other kingdoms should emulate Uvwie’s example,” he stated.
Similarly, Rt. Hon. Rire Uruesheyi, Leader of the Uvwie Legislative Arm, reaffirmed the safety and business-friendly environment in Uvwie. “For years, Uvwie has enjoyed peace and safety. Those responsible for past unrest were not indigenes. Uvwie is hospitable to investors, with the highest number of banks and numerous companies in the state,” he noted.
Uruesheyi also commended the Delta State Government’s approval of a law to address the proper naming of business addresses in Uvwie. “This ensures that the positive contributions of Uvwie are duly recognized,” he added.
AC Okocha’s Spouse Emerges Anasi Amidst Celebration
OGWASHI UKU
It was celebration galore as Ezinne Lady Okocha became the Anasi (head of all ldumu Alibu wives), in Agidiehe quarters of Ogwashi Uku, headquarters of Aniocha South Local Government Area.
Ezinne Okocha, wife of a foremost political leader, Chief A.C Okocha, replaced theformer Anasi, Mrs. Benedicta Okonjo.
At the impressive ceremony which held at ACOM House, lsah road in Ogwashi Uku, and attended by the women of Idumu-Alibu of Agidiehe quarters in Oguwashi- Uku as well as the Ikei (men), Agidiehe, family, friends as well as political associates of Chief A.C Okocha, Ezinne Lady Okocha, promised to carry all Idumu-Alibu of Agidiehe Quarters along in the discharge of her duties as Anasi.
She said as the new Anasi of all the ldumu Alibu wives, of Agidiehe, she would strive to ensure their welfare is paramount, going forward.
Ezinne Okocha urged the women to remain supportive of their husbands as well as imbibe sound moral and cultural values in their children, in order to bequeath a legacy of high moral rectitude and respect for the customs and traditions of the community.
In a brief remark, Chief A.C Okocha said he is confident that his spouse will bring all Annasi Idumu-Alibu of Agidiehe Quarters in Ogwashi Uku under one umbrella, which is unity and purpose, in the discharge of her new role.
A thanksgiving service followed as it coincided with Ezinne Okocha’s birthday, which was held at the Holy Family Catholic Church, off lsah road, Ogwashi-Uku followed by reception for guests.
