The Isoko Development Union has concluded its 2025 Annual Conference in Oleh, Delta State, with far reaching resolutions aimed at reshaping the political and economic direction of the Isoko Nation and securing sustainable development of its natural and human resources.
The conference, held at the IDU Secretariat, drew traditional rulers, political leaders, youth representatives, women groups, and other key stakeholders who examined the growing socio economic challenges facing the Union and the urgent need for a sustainable funding structure to keep the IDU functional and relevant.
In his address, President General of the Isoko Development Union, Professor Chris Akpotu, delivered a frank assessment of the Union’s current state, stressing that IDU must urgently rethink how financial, material, and psychosocial resources are mobilised and managed for the long term development of Isoko land. He described the Union as financially strained and urged members to confront the reality with honesty and collective resolve.
Professor Akpotu called on Isoko sons and daughters to demonstrate genuine commitment by actively engaging in discussions on sustainable funding, noting that such engagement represents the truest form of love for the Isoko Nation. He warned that without deliberate planning and unity of purpose, the Union would struggle to meet contemporary demands or fulfil its founding mandate.
Turning to Isoko politics, the IDU President General stressed the need for strategic self examination and a clear political vision anchored on unity. He cautioned against internal divisions and rising political hostility, urging stakeholders to lower tensions and redirect energy toward cooperation and shared progress.
He emphasised that political participation in Isoko land must be guided by honour, inclusiveness, discipline, and collective responsibility, adding that sustainable development would only be achieved through cooperation across political and social differences.
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Professor Akpotu also acknowledged prominent Isoko leaders contributing to development efforts, including Engineer Nelson Onwo of the NDDC, Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas, and Honourable Pastor Engineer Jonathan Ukodhiko, thanking them and other stakeholders for their continued support. He described the IDU as a critical platform for protecting Isoko identity, resources, and long term interests, and urged leaders to strengthen the Union as an independent and united ethnic nationality.
Discussions during the conference focused on practical strategies for sustainable development and ways to enhance the effectiveness of the IDU in delivering on its mandate to the Isoko people.
Earlier, the member representing Isoko South Constituency One in the Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Ferguson Onwo, praised Professor Akpotu’s leadership, noting that it had inspired his consistent participation in Union activities. He also commended Delta State Governor, Rt Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori, for maintaining peace and security across the state, while urging youths to shun crime and preserve the stable environment achieved so far.
Honourable Onwo highlighted key projects executed in his constituency, including renovation of water schemes, installation of solar street lights, construction of classroom blocks, and road projects such as the Igbide to Olomoro road.
A major highlight of the conference was the inauguration of the Isoko Strategic Action Committee, a body expected to drive policy direction and coordinated action for Isoko development. The committee is chaired by Barrister Joe Arausi, with Rt Honourable Emmanuel Okoro as Co Chairman. Honourable Ferguson Onwo will serve as Secretary One, while Honourable Emmanuel Egbabor takes the position of Secretary Two. Other members include Chief Mrs Evelyn Aluta, Barrister Duncan Afahokor, Mrs Mini Igbrude, Barrister Vote Mukoro, and the chairmen of the two Isoko local government councils, Honourable Friday Warri and Honourable Godwin Ogorugba.
The 2025 IDU Annual Conference ended with a renewed call for unity, strategic thinking, and sustainable funding as the pathway to securing the future of the Isoko Nation.
