Abraka Metro

VC’s Cup: Human Kinetics Defeat Mass Comm In Goaless Quarter Final Clash

Published

3 months ago

July 5, 2026

The Department of Mass Communication bowed out of the 2026 Delta State University (DELSU) Female Vice-Chancellor’s Cup in heartbreaking fashion on Thursday, July 3, after suffering a 5-3 penalty shootout defeat to the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education (H & G) following a fiercely contested goalless draw at Bembo Field.

Although the result brought an end to Mass Communication’s remarkable campaign, the team’s resilience, determination and unwavering fighting spirit earned admiration from students, lecturers and football enthusiasts who witnessed one of the tournament’s most competitive encounters.

The quarter-final clash drew a large crowd to Bembo Field, where supporters from both departments created an electrifying atmosphere. Having secured qualification to the knockout stage with a dramatic penalty victory over the Department of Anatomy earlier in the week, expectations were high that Mass Communication could continue its fairytale run.

From the opening whistle, both teams displayed impressive tactical discipline and determination. Mass Communication began confidently, controlling possession in the early stages and pressing high in search of an opening goal. Their attackers made several dangerous runs into the opposition’s half, but H & G’s disciplined defensive line remained compact, denying them any clear opportunity.

Not willing to be overrun, H & G gradually settled into the game, relying on swift counter-attacks to test the Mass Communication defence. Every attack was met with equal determination as defenders worked tirelessly to intercept passes, block crosses and clear dangerous balls from their penalty area.

The encounter soon developed into a tactical battle, with both teams refusing to give away possession cheaply. Midfield players from both departments fought relentlessly for control, winning crucial tackles and breaking up attacking moves before they could become genuine scoring opportunities.

Mass Communication’s defence once again proved why it had become one of the tournament’s strongest units. Their organised backline frustrated H & G throughout the first half, forcing the opposition to settle for long-range efforts that rarely troubled goalkeeper Success.

Whenever danger arose, Success stood tall between the posts. The dependable goalkeeper produced a series of confident saves, commanding her area with authority and ensuring that her team remained level. Her calmness under pressure inspired confidence among her teammates and drew applause from spectators gathered around the field.

As the first half ended without a goal, both coaches used the interval to reorganise their teams, urging their players to increase the tempo in pursuit of victory.

The second half resumed with renewed intensity as both departments pushed forward more aggressively. The pace of the game increased significantly, with attacks flowing from one end of the pitch to the other. Every forward movement was met with loud cheers from supporters who sensed that one goal could decide the contest.

Mass Communication continued to display remarkable teamwork, linking passes effectively through midfield while attempting to stretch H & G’s defensive formation. Several promising attacks raised hopes among their supporters, but the final touch continued to elude them.

H & G also came close on a few occasions, forcing the Mass Communication defence into emergency clearances. Once again, Success demonstrated why she had become one of the standout goalkeepers of the competition, making crucial interventions whenever her team came under pressure.

As the minutes ticked away, fatigue began to set in, but neither side was willing to surrender. Players continued to chase every loose ball, contest every challenge and battle for every inch of space. Despite their relentless efforts, the deadlock remained unbroken at the final whistle, leaving the outcome to be decided through the drama of a penalty shootout.

With emotions running high, players from both departments stepped forward to take the decisive spot kicks.

H & G displayed remarkable composure under immense pressure, converting all five of their penalties with clinical precision. Mass Communication responded courageously but managed to convert only three of their attempts, handing H & G a 5-3 victory and a place in the semi-finals of the Female Vice-Chancellor’s Cup.

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The final whistle signalled heartbreak for the Mass Communication players, many of whom had given everything on the pitch in pursuit of victory. Despite the disappointment, the team left the field to warm applause from supporters who acknowledged their outstanding effort throughout the competition.

Mass Communication’s exit does little to diminish what has been an impressive tournament campaign.

Earlier in the competition, the department booked a place in the knockout stage after overcoming the Department of Anatomy in another dramatic penalty shootout. Following a goalless draw in regulation time, Mass Communication held their nerve to emerge victorious from the spot, showcasing the resilience and composure that would define their tournament journey.

Throughout the competition, the team earned a reputation for defensive organisation, discipline and never-say-die determination. Match after match, they demonstrated unity, tactical awareness and an ability to compete against some of the tournament’s strongest departments.

Goalkeeper Success emerged as one of the department’s brightest stars, producing numerous match-saving performances that kept Mass Communication alive during crucial moments. Her consistency, leadership and confidence between the posts made her one of the standout performers of the Female VC Cup.

She was ably supported by an equally committed squad comprising Confidence, Esther, Rosemary, Joy, Cherish, Precision, Nenny, Bends, Miracle, Favour, Divine and Mariam. Together, they displayed exceptional teamwork, resilience and commitment, qualities that earned them the admiration of spectators throughout the tournament.

Following the match, supporters praised the players for refusing to give up despite the painful defeat. Many described Mass Communication as one of the tournament’s surprise packages, noting that their organisation, discipline and unity made them one of the most difficult teams to break down.

Some supporters expressed confidence that the experience gained during this year’s competition would serve as valuable motivation for future tournaments, insisting that the department has built a team capable of challenging for honours in the coming years.

Although H & G celebrated a deserved victory and progression to the semi-finals, Mass Communication departed with their reputation greatly enhanced. Their performances throughout the tournament demonstrated that success is measured not only by trophies but also by determination, teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship.

For the Department of Mass Communication, the 2026 Female Vice-Chancellor’s Cup will be remembered as a campaign filled with courage, unforgettable moments and unwavering belief. From surviving tense penalty drama against Anatomy to battling H & G until the very last kick of the ball, the team embodied the fighting spirit that defines competitive sports.

Their dream of lifting the trophy may have ended at Bembo Field, but the courage, discipline and resilience they displayed throughout the tournament have left a lasting impression on the DELSU sporting community. As preparations eventually begin for next season, the department can look back with pride on a memorable campaign that proved they belong among the university’s finest female football teams.

In another development, the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread drifted through the air as students eagerly welcomed visitors to colourful exhibition stands lined with pastries, popcorn, rich Nigerian delicacies, Ice cream and other drinks, like Zobo and Tiger nut drink.

For many at Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Tuesday’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES) Exhibition was more than an academic exercise, it was a celebration of innovation, creativity and the promise of self reliance.

Abraka Metro

Oborevwori, DELSU VC Hail Peretomode at Valedictory Lecture

Published

1 week ago

September 26, 2026

Media Conversation

A former Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Victor Peretomode, has proposed a tripartite governance model to sustain excellence in the institution.

Peretomode proposed the model at DELSU’s 12th valedictory lecture held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the university’s 750 Lecture Theatre, Site III.

The lecture was titled, “DELSU and the Burden of Expectation: The Challenges of Being Delta State’s Premier University and Rethinking Governance for Sustainable Excellence.”

He said as the state’s premier university, DELSU carries triple burdens — aspirational, political and operational — which translate into expectations such as expanding access to university education for Deltans, accommodating qualified indigenes, advancing state-specific development priorities and producing morally sound and employable graduates.

Peretomode, a Professor of Educational Administration and Higher Education, said the challenges could be addressed through his proposed “Peretomode Tripartite Model of Governance for Sustainable Excellence,” anchored on three pillars: Leadership Integrity, Funding Predictability and Quality Assurance.

He observed that DELSU has come far, but its journey is far from complete, adding that the burden of expectation it carries is not a weight to be feared, but a responsibility to be fulfilled.

In his remarks, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Visitor to the university, described Peretomode as an academic who contributed immensely to the development of university education in the state.

Oborevwori, who was represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, said the state would still need Peretomode’s wealth of experience as he bows out of service and assured of continued support for DELSU.

On his part, the Vice-Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Samuel Asagba, lauded Peretomode’s achievements as former VC, noting that his policies, though considered harsh at the time, have placed the university in its present enviable state.

Asagba wished the valedictory lecturer the best in his future endeavours.

Highlights of the event included the launch of two books authored by the valedictory lecturer and a musical rendition by the Department of Music.

Peretomode joined DELSU in 1992 as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Management and Foundations, became a Professor in 1996 and served as its 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor from 2014 to 2019.

The lecture was attended by the Vice-Chancellor of University of Delta, Agbor, Prof. Eric Eboh, Vice-Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, DELSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, DELSU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Hilary Owamah, DELSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Douglasson Omotor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Delta, Agbor, Prof. Patrick Ijeh, Provost of Oleh Campus, Prof. Augustine Atonuje, DELSU Registrar, Mrs Rufina Ufiofio, DELSU Bursar, Mrs Otimeyin Ekakitie-Omajuwa, DELSU Librarian, Dr Josephine Onohwakpor, Provosts, Deans, Directors, staff and students of the university.

Also in attendance were the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector, Delta State Marine Polytechnic, Burutu, Prof. Emmanuel Okoro, Delta business tycoon, Chief Tunde Smooth, Executive Director of Project, DESOPADEC, Chief (Dr) Ebenezer Okorodudu, former DELSU Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, former Dennis Osadebey University Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Robert Ikomi, members of DELSU College of Chaplains, friends and family members of the valedictory lecturer, including his wife, Dr (Mrs) Otaroghene Peretomode.

Meanwhile, Delta State University, Abraka has released its approved UTME cut-off marks for the 2026/2027 admission session.

The release comes barely 24 hours after the state-owned institution released its first batch of admission for the incoming session.

Abraka Metro

Prof. Emmanuel Akarah Laid To Rest Amid Tears, Tributes

Published

1 month ago

August 29, 2026

Media Conversation

By Ese Umukoro

The serene community of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka was thrown into mourning on Friday, 28th August, 2026, as the remains of Late Prof. Emmanuel Oghenebrorien Akarah, popularly known as, Don Spino, was committed to mother earth.

Speaking during the commendation service at Atscan Hall, Site II of the University, the Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Samuel Asagba, lamented that he received the sad news of the demise of the deceased on 8th of May, 2026 as a rude shock.

Asagba recalled the personal memories he shared with Akarah as a friend, eulogising his forthrightness, outspokenness and doggedness.

He stated that Don Spino contributed his quota to the growth of the University in different capacities since he was employed into the services of DELSU, adding that his legacy would not be forgotten in the history of DELSU because of his impact on both staff and students.

The Vice Chancellor thereafter led the University community to observe a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased.

In his commendation earlier, the Head of Department of Human Kinetics, Recreation and Sports Science, Prof. Ochuko Nabofa, eulogised Don Spino, calling him a colleague, a friend, a scholarly collaborator and ultimately an in-law.

Nabofa recollected how himself and the late Don Spino shared ideas, challenged each other intellectually and worked together in the pursuit of knowledge.

Nabofa concluded that Don Spino’s death has left a void in the Department of Human Kinetics, Recreation and Sports Science, in DELSU and in the lives of those who knew him.

He said the bond was further strengthened when in February this year, Don Spino’s cousin, Hon. (Double Chief) Godday Ewenuvie, got married to his younger sister whom he raised as a daughter, thus making them in-laws.

In her oration, the Dean of Faculty of Education, Prof. Florence Ugorji, said Don Spino was a man of the people whose life impacted positively on all who came across him.

Represented by Prof. Canice Ikeorji, the Dean further lamented that the deceased was an asset to the faculty and prayed for the repose of his soul.

Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU-DELSU), Comrade Paul Opone, bemoaned the loss of Don Spino.

In his tributes, Opone recalled the contributions of Don Spino during congresses and how he fought for the Union during its period of crisis.

The union Chairman stated that the passing of Don Spino was a challenge to him and the Union as it would be difficult to get his replacement.

Opone thereafter led members of the Union in singing the solidarity song for a fallen comrade.

The commendation service also witnessed the filing past the casket of Don Spino led by the Vice Chancellor before the remains of Don Spino were taken to Uruekpo Quarters in Evwreni kingdom for interment.

Late Professor Emmanuel Oghenebrorien Akarah joined the services of DELSU in 1995 as Graduate Assistant and rose to the rank of Professor in 2021.

Earlier, a Service of Songs in his honour was held at the DELSU’s Sports Complex on Wednesday, 26th August, 2026.

Dignitaries present at the commendation service included the Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Professor Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, the University Registrar, Mrs Rufina Ufiofio, represented by Mr Emmanuel Okoro, the University Librarian, Dr (Mrs) Josephine Onohwakpor, Director of Ceremonials, Information and Public Relations, Prof. Enajite Ojaruega, Chairman of ASUU-DELSU, Comrade Paul Opone, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, the University Public Relations Officer, Mr Henry Eseka, family members of the deceased, Professors, staff, students, and others from within and outside the university community.

Those present during the funeral at Evwreni kingdom included the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edmund Atakpo, immediate past Provost of Oleh campus, Prof. Elo Ibagere, Directors including the Director of Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES), Prof. Onoriode Emoyan, Deans of Faculties including the Dean of Arts Faculty, Prof. Nelson Edewor, Heads of Departments, politicians, business moguls, friends, family members of Don Spino and other mourners.

Abraka Metro

Tension As GLK, Okada Collide In Abraka

Published

2 months ago

August 20, 2026

Media Conversation

By God’stime Oyeh

An accident involving a GLK 350 and a commercial motorcyclist happened around 11:30 a.m., reportedly after a case of wrong-lane driving.

According to eyewitnesses, the motorcyclist, popularly known as an “Aboki” bikeman, was coming from the Campus 2 area when he was allegedly hit by the GLK 350 car.

The little damage to the car caused some tension at the scene as both parties tried to explain what happened.

Eyewitnesses said the motorcyclist seemed to be at a disadvantage during the confrontation with the car driver- who was clearly trying to oppress the motorcyclist which led vigilantes and other bystanders to step in and calm things down before it got out of hand.

Things reportedly got more heated when some area boys arrived and tried to help settle the issue. The GLK 350 driver defended himself and shared his version of events, but some witnesses felt his explanation didn’t quite match what they saw happen.

As arguments continued and tempers rose,and with the car driver still wanting to oppress the motorcyclist, the Vigilantes took it upon themselves to caution him since he wasn’t trying to make peace…the matter was eventually taken to the police station for proper investigation and resolution.