* Tompolo doesn’t spray money; he cannot be held accountable for actions of unknown individuals – Ozobo, IPDI

A leading Niger Delta activist Comrade Ozobo Austin who doubles as the National president of the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI), has come forward to exonerate High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, from the recent allegations of monetary abuse levied by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

The Niger Delta activist emphasized that there is no concrete evidence supporting the claims presented in the controversial and manipulative viral video that Tompolo sprayed money. He asserted that it is unjust to hold Tompolo responsible for the misdeeds of others.

Comrade Ozobo further alleged that the EFCC has been misled by individuals involved in oil theft and by naive Nigerians whose motives are grounded in envy and jealousy.

He said Tompolo who has great respect for the country’s laws will not condescend low to abuse the law, adding that it would have been better for EFCC to have looked for the unknown individuals responsible for the abuse of the naira in the viral video than dragging the innocent man to disrepute.

The Niger Delta advocate warned mischief makers to invest their time into a meaningful ventures and pursue responsible causes rather than making propaganda against the innocent Tompolo.

He emphasised that Tompolo would not respond to social media critics and unschooled individuals who take joy in manipulating fellow brothers.

Ozobo urged EFCC to be a noble organization and not to allow evil men and unscrupulous social media influencers to instigate them into commenting on unnecessary issues that were capable of threatening the fragile peace of Niger Delta.

By Peter Ziakegha, May 10, 2025

Kiagbodo, Burutu_The Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Julius Takeme, in company of the Delta State Commissioner for Housing and Chairman of the Burial Venue Committee, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, on Friday inspected the ongoing preparations at the burial venue of the late elder statesman, Chief Pa Edwin Clark, in Kiagbodo.

The visit was aimed at assessing the state of readiness of key facilities and ensuring that arrangements are in place for a dignified and well organised ceremony. The duo expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far.

Among the areas inspected were the main burial arena, the church slated for the final funeral rites, and the designated parking space for invited dignitaries. Workers were observed mounting canopies, setting up chairs, and grading roadways to ease access to the venue.

Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Takeme lauded the coordination and commitment of the central planning committee. He assured that all logistics would be completed in good time to honour the legacy of the late Chief Pa Edwin Clark.

Preparations are in top gear as the community, the planning committee and the local government get set to host dignitaries and mourners from across the country for the final rites of the respected leader.

Visits Trans-Warri Road, Two more Jetties to be built.

By Divine Perezide

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced early 2027 as the definitive completion date for the Ayakoromo Bridge project, this is a decisive step aimed at fast-tracking infrastructural development and fulfill a promise to riverine communities, accordingtothe governor.

The Governor noted that the critical project had suffered years of uncertainty and delays, but stressed that he was committed to ensuring its completion as scheduled.

He made this declaration during an inspection visit to the site of the Ayakoromo Bridge across the Forcados River, along with the 3km approach road at Egbo-Ide in Ughelli-South and Burutu local government areas.

Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of the 612-metre long bridge comprising 18 spans with 24 metres between each span to the communities of Egbo-Ide and Ayakoromo.

He added that although the contract was awarded before his administration, he ensured the contractor was remobilized to the site.

“This project is very dear to me and the people. The contractor has set 2027 as the completion date, but we would be pleased if it is finished early 2027,” he said.

“I am confident the contractor will deliver as promised, but I have also directed them to accelerate the pace of work. This bridge is crucial for connecting surrounding villages.

“As you can see, the people are excited even though they were not informed of my visit. This shows how important the bridge is to the two communities and others in the area.”

Earlier, the Governor visited the Trans-Warri Road and Bridges Project in Warri South Local Government Area.

He remarked that the project would enhance connectivity and create economic opportunities for both urban and rural dwellers.

“This project is vital to our people because it connects us with those in rural areas and expands opportunities.

“You saw how happy the people were as we arrived; elders and other villagers came out joyfully. This project is particularly important to the Itsekiri nation, which is why I am determined to see it through to completion.

“I was here in September 2024, and I am back again for inspection. I believe that by early next year, this project will be inaugurated, as it has already been delayed for nearly 19 years.

“We will no longer tolerate delays beyond project timelines. Under our MORE Agenda, we have committed to doing more for Deltans, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori announced the construction of two jetties in the area and explained that, due to the rainy season, the construction company is allowing the newly sand-filled areas to settle for road stability.

He, however, urged the firm to accelerate work to ensure the project is completed within his first term in office.