Celebrity Showcase

Elumelu Celebrates Oborevwori's 3rd Anniversary, Hails Governor’s Development Strides in Delta

The immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, OON, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, on the occasion of his third anniversary in office, describing his administration as a shining example of purposeful leadership, inclusive governance and impactful development.

Elumelu, in a congratulatory message made available to journalists, commended Governor Oborevwori for his remarkable investments in human capital and infrastructure development across the 25 Local Government Areas and the three Senatorial Districts of the State in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda with Renewed Hope.

He praised the Governor for his humility, discipline, inclusiveness and prudent management of the resources of the State, noting with admiration that the administration has continued to execute meaningful projects and programmes without resorting to borrowing.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has shown himself to be a God-fearing, hardworking and visionary leader who continues to use the privilege of office to advance peace, development and prosperity for all Deltans with humility and sincerity of purpose,” Elumelu stated.

The former Minority Leader highlighted the administration’s achievements in critical sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth and women empowerment, employment generation, human capital development, as well as peace and security.

He particularly applauded the Governor’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure development across riverine, rural and urban communities, stressing that the construction and inauguration of the 4.8-kilometre Oko-Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road in Oshimili South Local Government Area within the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency remains one of the most historic and commendable interventions in the area.

Elumelu noted that the project, which is the first phase of the road project, has brought immense relief and socio-economic transformation to the benefiting communities, adding that the Governor’s dedication to equitable development has continued to strengthen public confidence in his administration.

“For three years, Governor Oborevwori has remained focused and untiring in his determination to move Delta State forward. His wisdom, calm disposition and cordial relationship with the Federal Government have continued to earn him national respect and recognition, while also attracting positive outcomes for the people of the State,” he said.

He further observed that the scale and spread of infrastructural development under the Oborevwori administration have further reassured Deltans of the Governor’s sincerity and commitment to the Renewed Hope with MORE Agenda.

Elumelu also commended members of the State Executive Council, the Speaker and members of the Delta State House of Assembly for their loyalty, support and commitment towards the successful implementation of the Governor’s Renewed Hope with MORE Agenda mantra.

The former Minority Leader congratulated the Governor on behalf of the entire Elumelu family, his political associates, the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency and Deltans in general.

He prayed God Almighty to continue to grant Governor Oborevwori divine health, uncommon strength, wisdom and greater grace to continue delivering more dividends of democracy to the people of Delta State.

2027 Elections: Elumelu, NUJ FCT Urge Media to Combat Disinformation, Defend Democracy

The Minority Leader of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, OON, has called on journalists, political actors and citizens to unite against the growing threat of disinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that fake news and propaganda could undermine Nigeria’s democracy if left unchecked.

Elumelu made the call on Tuesday while delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Press Week Lecture and Awards Night event at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

Speaking on the theme, “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,” the immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives described the issue of disinformation as one of the greatest threats confronting the nation’s democratic process.

“At the moment, Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its democratic journey. As we look ahead to the 2027 general elections, we are confronted not only with familiar political challenges but also with a rapidly evolving and more complex threat; the weaponisation of disinformation.

“Disinformation, misinformation, and propaganda have moved from the fringes to take center stage as dangerous tools for manipulation of political discourse; unleashing negative energies that distort public perception and opinion, weaken institutions, erode public trust, instigate divisions, restiveness and violence and corrupt electoral outcomes.

“Of course, democracy thrives when citizens are well informed and able to make rational choices. However, when the public space is saturated with falsehoods, distortions, and manipulative narratives, the foundation of democracy itself becomes fractured. In such an environment, the integrity of elections is threatened long before ballots are cast.

“Disturbingly, as we approach the 2027 general elections, we are confronted with the threats of fabricated news stories, Artificial Intelligence generated as well as doctored images and videos, false data and figures crafted by campaigners of falsehood to inflame passions, scandalize individuals and discredit institutions,” Elumelu said.

The former lawmaker noted that the media remained the cornerstone of every democratic society and urged journalists not to compromise professionalism and ethical standards in the race for breaking news.

“The media must never surrender to agents of disinformation. Accuracy should never be sacrificed on the altar of immediacy and speed. Therefore, media houses must face the challenge on meeting the yearning of a society on the fast lane by strengthening their capacity to blend fact and speed to outwit purveyors of fake news.

“Ethical journalism must continue to guide reportage, particularly during electoral cycles. Objectivity, fairness, and balance are not optional; they are essential. Beyond reporting, the media also has a responsibility to educate citizens, helping them to recognize false information and make informed decisions.

“The media must be ready and equipped to rapidly detect and counter disinformation by enhancing their capacity for in-depth reportage anchored on credible sources and reinforced reporting techniques on where, when, how, what and who,” he stated.

Elumelu also warned journalists against allowing politicians to manipulate reports for selfish interests, insisting that the media should deny prominence to politicians who engage in falsehood and character assassination instead of issue-based campaigns.

“The media must refuse to create space for non-performing and unpopular politicians who, having no achievements or electoral credentials to campaign with, engage in falsehood, defamation and negative propaganda against opponents and political institutions.

“As we approach the 2027 elections, I urge the political class to ensure to play by the rules. We must act as patriots, imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and not seek political power by all means.

“Those seeking elective offices must be ready to present their scorecards, competencies and vision instead of resorting to acts of desperation, spreading falsehood, promoting divisive arguments and overheating the polity to achieve selfish aims,” he added.

Earlier in her welcome address, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, described the theme of the Press Week as timely and significant, stressing that journalists had a major role to play in safeguarding democracy and public trust.

“This year’s theme, ‘2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,’ is not only timely, but deeply significant. As our nation moves closer to another critical electoral season, the challenge before us is clear: to protect the truth, defend democratic values, and resist the dangerous spread of falsehood, propaganda, and manipulated narratives that threaten the peace and unity of our country.

“The media occupies a strategic place in any democracy. Journalists are not merely observers of events; we are custodians of truth, watchdogs of society, and defenders of the public interest.

“In an age where misinformation spreads rapidly through digital platforms, the responsibility on journalists has become even heavier. We must continue to verify facts, present balanced reporting, and uphold the ethics that give credibility to our profession,” she said.

Ike commended Elumelu for accepting to deliver the keynote lecture, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose insights on governance and democracy would enrich public discourse.

She also appreciated the presence of the Chairman of the occasion and Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, the Co-Chairman and former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, as well as the National President of the NUJ, Alhassan Yahya, for their support and commitment to democratic engagement.

She further said the awards presented during the event were meant to honour professionalism, courage and integrity in journalism and corporate leadership.

“The awards we confer tonight are not merely tokens of recognition; they are a tribute to hard work, courage, professionalism, and integrity.

“As we celebrate, let us also renew our resolve to defend democracy through responsible journalism. Let us continue to speak truth to power, reject disinformation, and uphold the standards that define our noble profession.

“The future of our democracy depends in no small measure on the courage, discipline, and integrity of the media,” Ike stated.

ASABA MEMORIAL CENTER: DISPELLING FALSEHOOD AND SETTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT

The attention of the Ndudi Elumelu Campaign Organization has been drawn to a paid publication by Chief Chucks Nduka Eze in a Monday, May 11, 2026 edition of a national daily wherein he, claiming to represent the Asaba Memorial Trust, attempted to discredit the City Boys’ Movement and their legitimate effort towards the reelection of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

It is however not surprising that, given his antecedents of not supporting President Tinubu since the 2023 election, Chief Nduka-Eze will resort to fabrications and trying to scandalize the Minority Leader of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu for donating his building in Asaba Delta to the City Boys to serve as their Secretariat in the State.

Ordinarily, our campaign would not bother to respond to the fabrications by Nduka-Eze but for the sake of the public, we have decided to set the records straight.

Firstly, contrary to claims by Nduka-Eze, the property donated by Rt. Hon Elumelu to the City Boys belongs to Rt. Hon Elumelu. It does not belong to Asaba Memorial Center, neither was it built with funds meant for the Memorial Center.

Secondly, also contrary to his claims, Chief Nduka-Eze never approached the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila to demand or propose for the Memorial Center. Rather, he met Rt. Hon. Gbajabiamila in Lagos as a former schoolmate at which meeting, he informed the former Speaker that his family has an acre of land which he proposed to be included in the budget for acquisition by Government as part of the allocation for the upgrade of the Federal Technical College Asaba.

However, upon investigation, it was discovered that his family had no such land in Asaba; that the said acre of land rather belonged to the community and not his family. Given the apparent underhandedness, the Speaker jettisoned the idea of appropriating funds to secure the land.

Thirdly, on the issue of the N450 million for the Memorial Center; contrary to Nduka-Eze’s claims, he did not propose the project to Rt. Hon Elumelu or the Speaker. The project came as an intervention project from Rt. Hon Elumelu, who as Minority Leader, proposed it in the budget as his Constituency Project. This is evidenced in Elumelu’s official letter-headed correspondence to the House Committee on Appropriation forwarding the project as his sponsored project.

Following Rt. Hon Elumelu’s request, N450 million was approved. Out of the N450 million, the sum of N383 million was released. The N383 million was however reversed and returned to the national coffers as unspent fund following the failure to secure a land in Asaba for the project. This is a fact that is verifiable from relevant agencies of government.

It is therefore shocking that Chief Nduka-Eze could throw decorum and respect for our heroes to the wind to conjure blatant falsehood in a bid to create false narrative that Rt. Hon. Elumelu’s property which he has held for over 20 years suddenly became the property of Asaba Memorial Trust because he donated it to the City Boys.

From every indication, including Chief Nduka-Eze’s established aversion to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is clear that the intent and purpose of the false narrative is to incite the people against the City Boys and cripple the group’s efforts towards the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

This unwarranted veiled attack on the City Boys by Chief Nduka-Eze, a known ‘Obidient’ clearly shows that he is working against President Tinubu’s interest. He never supported President Tinubu in 2023 election and apparently seeks to frustrate genuine, people-based efforts for his re-election in 2027.

Furthermore, we invite Chief Nduka-Eze to come clean and tell the people of Asaba how his reported attempt to swindle the government frustrated the efforts by patriotic citizens like Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu and stalled the Asaba Memorial Project.

On our part, our principal, Rt. Hon Ndudi Elumelu, the entire Campaign Council and indeed the people of Delta State remain focused and will not be distracted by characters like Chief Nduka-Eze.

Signed:
Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu Campaign Council.

Aniocha North APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori, Okowa, Elumelu, Onwodi as Consensus Candidates Ahead of 2027 Elections

In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State have unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to return to office unopposed, while the former State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and Engr. Fidel Onwodi as Consensus candidates for the 2027 general elections.

The strategic stakeholders’ meeting, held in Aniocha North and chaired by Dame Nkem Okwuofu, drew prominent party leaders, political stakeholders, youth and women groups, as well as ward coordinators from across the local government area.

At the meeting, participants unanimously adopted and signed a resolution declaring total support for the five leaders, citing their leadership qualities, performance, political contributions, and commitment to the growth and stability of both Delta State and Nigeria.

The stakeholders noted that the consensus endorsement followed extensive consultations and careful appraisal of the developmental strides and political impact of the endorsed leaders.

They emphasized that the decision reflects the collective desire of the people to sustain continuity, unity, effective representation, and inclusive development ahead of the 2027 elections.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was commended for his economic reforms, commitment to democratic governance, and efforts toward national development. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori received accolades for his infrastructural drive, empowerment programmes, and people-oriented governance under the MORE Agenda.

Former Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was praised for his enduring legacy, political leadership, and contributions to the stability and development of Delta State. Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu was equally applauded for his effective representation, legislative leadership, constituency projects, and sustained grassroots engagement.

Engr. Fidel Onwodi also received widespread commendation for his commitment to grassroots mobilization, community development initiatives, and consistent efforts toward strengthening unity and cooperation within the APC in Aniocha North.

At the climax of the meeting, stakeholders appended their signatures to a joint resolution pledging to mobilize support and work collectively toward ensuring the emergence of the endorsed leaders in the 2027 general elections without opposition.

The meeting ended with renewed calls for unity among party faithful, peaceful political participation, and sustained collaboration in advancing the welfare and progress of Aniocha North, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole.

Political observers have described the development as a strong signal of solidarity, strategic alignment, and growing consensus within the APC structure in Aniocha North as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of 2027.

May Day 2026: Elumelu Salutes Nigerian Workers, Commends Tinubu, Oborevwori on Welfare, Security Efforts

The Minority Leader of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, OON, has congratulated Nigerian workers under the auspices of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on the occasion of the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration coming up tomorrow, Friday, May 1, 2026.

In a goodwill message to mark the May Day celebration, Elumelu thanked God for the Nigerian workers, describing them as critical stakeholders in nation-building and the driving force of the country’s economic growth and development.

He noted that this year’s Worker's Day theme, “Insecurity, Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” aptly highlights the commitment, and resilience of Nigerian workers, who continue to contribute meaningfully to national progress despite prevailing security and economic challenges.

Elumelu acknowledged the determined efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in tackling insecurity across the country, as well as ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of Nigerian workers.

He expressed optimism that sustained reforms and people-oriented policies would further enhance productivity and restore confidence in the nation’s workforce.

Elumelu also lauded the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, for maintaining peace and security in the state, while demonstrating untiring commitment to the welfare of workers and pensioners.

He commended the governor’s proactive policies, which he said have continued to promote industrial harmony and improve the quality of life for workers in Delta State.

While appreciating the steadfast support of Nigerian workers for the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, even in the face of global economic challenges, Elumelu expressed confidence that brighter prospects lie ahead.

He emphasized that the openness and inclusiveness of government in engaging with labour demands would yield tangible benefits for workers across the country.

Elumelu, reaffirmed his commitment to policies and legislative actions that prioritize workers’ welfare, job security, and a safe working environment. He stressed that the prosperity of any nation is directly tied to the well-being of its workforce.

The immediate past Minority Leader congratulated the leadership and members of the NLC and TUC, particularly in Delta State and urged them to remain steadfast in their contributions to national development.

“On this significant day, I salute the courage, resilience, and patriotism of Nigerian workers. Your sacrifices remain the bedrock of our nation’s progress. Together, we will continue to strive for a more secure, prosperous, and worker-friendly Nigeria,” Elumelu stated.

Merit Over Sentiment: Why Aniocha/Oshimili Must Reject Divisive Narratives and Uphold Performance in Representation

The article by Tony Eke, titled, “Apartheid and Greed: Aniocha Treats Oshimili as Political Inferior,” is not only misleading in its assumptions but fundamentally flawed in its conclusions. It attempts to substitute sentiment, division, and emotional rhetoric for what should be the cornerstone of democratic representation; merit, performance, competence, and proven capacity.

At the heart of the argument lies a dangerous oversimplification: that zoning and rotation, rather than competence and effectiveness, should determine who represents the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. This line of thinking undermines the very essence of democracy, which prioritizes the will of the people expressed through their confidence in capable leadership, not location, area of origin or lip service.

Representation is not a ceremonial rotation of offices; it is a serious responsibility that demands experience, legislative capacity, national relevance, and a demonstrable track record of delivering value. The people of Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili North, and Oshimili South are not divided by competence, they are united by a shared expectation of quality representation. Any attempt to reduce this expectation to mere zoning arrangements is both reductive and counterproductive.

Using Rt. Hon.Ndudi Elumelu as a case study clearly illustrates why merit must prevail. His tenure in the House of Representatives, including his role as Minority Leader, was not an accident of geography but a product of legislative experience, political maturity, and national influence. Ranking within the National Assembly is not arbitrarily assigned; it is earned through years of effective participation, strategic leadership, and the ability to influence policy at the highest levels. These are not qualities that can be rotated; they are built over time.

Elumelu’s record reflects sustained engagement with his constituency, facilitation of developmental projects, and a strong voice in national discourse. Whether one supports his continued candidacy or not, it is intellectually dishonest to dismiss such credentials in favor of a rigid zoning formula that ignores performance altogether. Leadership is not an experiment; it requires tested hands.

Furthermore, the suggestion that any axis has been “oppressed” or treated as “inferior” is not only exaggerated but deeply irresponsible. Words like “Apartheid,” “Greed,” and “Inferior” are inflammatory, historically loaded, and wholly inappropriate in describing the relationship between the Aniocha and Oshimili people. These communities share deep cultural, historical, and familial ties. To introduce such divisive language is to deliberately sow discord where none should exist.

It must also be stated clearly: the decision on who represents the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency rests solely with the people themselves, not external commentators. While public discourse is welcome in a democracy, it becomes problematic when individuals who are not direct stakeholders attempt to impose narratives that could destabilize unity. The people of this constituency are politically aware and capable of making informed choices based on their collective interests.

The claim that zoning automatically guarantees fairness is also questionable. True fairness lies in equal opportunity, not forced outcomes. Every qualified individual, regardless of origin within the constituency, should be free to present themselves before the electorate. The voters, in turn, should assess candidates based on competence, integrity, experience, and vision, not merely on where they come from.

It is also important to emphasize that a representative in the House of Representatives does not serve a clan, village, or axis, they serve the entire constituency. The mandate is holistic, not sectional. Effective representation requires someone who understands the diverse needs of all four local government areas and possesses the capacity to advocate for them collectively at the national level.

The attempt to frame the political landscape of Aniocha/Oshimili as one of domination and exclusion is therefore not only inaccurate but potentially harmful. It risks creating unnecessary tension and distracting from the real issues; development, governance, and effective representation.

In conclusion, the future of representation in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency must not be anchored on emotional appeals or divisive rhetoric. It must be built on merit, performance, experience, and proven leadership. The electorate must remain focused on what truly matters: who has the capacity to deliver, to lead, and to represent effectively at the national stage.

Anything less would be a disservice to the people and a betrayal of democratic principles.

C. W. Ugbolue.

Okwuofu Celebrates Mama Suzanne Elumelu at 98, Praises Her Legacy of Raising Exceptional Children

A prominent political leader in Delta State, Chief Nkem Okwuofu (Agunwanyi), has felicitated with Mama Suzanne Elumelu on the occasion of her 98th birthday anniversary, celebrated today, Friday, April 24, 2026.

In a goodwill message, Chief Okwuofu gave thanks to God for sustaining the life of Mama Elumelu, whom she described as a great and virtuous woman whose impact continues to resonate across generations.

She noted that Mama Suzanne Elumelu’s life remains a shining example of grace, resilience, and unwavering faith in God, adding that her nearly ten decades on earth stand as a testimony to divine favour and enduring strength.

Okwuofu further described Mama Elumelu as a remarkable mother whom God used to nurture and raise great children who have continued to add immense value to society and humanity at large, including renowned business leader, Mr Tony Elumelu, and immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu.

According to Chief Okwuofu, Mama Elumelu’s commitment to family values, humility, and generosity has not only earned her widespread admiration, but has also significantly shaped the character and achievements of her children.

“She is a symbol of strength and dignity, whose life of sacrifice, love, and devotion has inspired many. Her legacy is clearly evident in the lives of her children and all those she has impacted over the years,” Okwuofu stated.

The Delta State political figure expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving Mama Elumelu’s life to witness another milestone, describing her 98th birthday as a celebration of a fulfilled and impactful life.

She prayed for continued good health, peace, and more joyful years for the nonagenarian, wishing her a memorable celebration surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers.