Senator Ede Dafinone Receives Grand Patron Award From NUJ Sapele Chapel
—– Senator Stresses Human Capital Agenda, Vows to Shun Pull Him Down Syndrome
By Wilson Macaulay
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel, has conferred its prestigious Grand Patron Award on Senator Ede Dafinone, in recognition of his outstanding commitment to journalism, community development, and public service.
The award, which is reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional support for the media and society, celebrates the senator’s humility, exemplary performance and determination, qualities that have defined his journey from a renowned chartered accountant to a respected political figure in Nigeria.
Senator Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District, expressed deep appreciation for the honor during his acceptance speech, reiterating his dedication to serving his constituents and the nation. He stressed that distractions and media attacks would not derail his mission of bringing meaningful development to the people of Delta Central, adding that his focus remains on human capital development and accessible representation.
Highlighting his priorities, the senator disclosed his efforts to actualize the reopening of Sapele Port and to facilitate the establishment of a higher institution of learning in the district. He also emphasized the need to halt asset stripping at the Delta Steel Company. These projects, he noted, would drive economic growth and create lasting opportunities for the people of Delta Central.
On empowerment, Dafinone cited his youth development programme at PTI Conference Centre, Effurun, where 100 young entrepreneurs received POS machines and ₦50,000 each. “It may not change a life completely, but it can change a situation,” he remarked. He further revealed that while his office had received over 700 requests for constituency projects ranging from transformers to school rehabilitation, available funding could only cover about 200 within his tenure.
The senator also narrated how he personally mobilised security operatives to rescue a kidnapped victim, stressing that public office must be used to directly benefit the people. On political distractions, he dismissed a recent recall campaign against him, alleging that its sponsors later demanded ₦1.5 million to withdraw it. He cautioned against media attacks on Urhobo leaders, warning that such actions Will weaken the ethnic group’s influence in national politics.
Dafinone called for greater unity among the Urhobo people, urging an end to unnecessary rivalries and the “pull-him-down syndrome.” “Let my works speak for me,” he said, while disclosing that he has instructed his media team to ignore social media critics.
The senator also renewed his call for justice for the Okuama community leaders who have been in military custody for almost a year without trial. He described the situation as a violation of fundamental rights, noting that one detainee had died in custody while another was released in poor health. “If they are innocent, release them. If not, charge them in court. One year without trial is unacceptable,” he declared.
In his remarks, Chairman of the NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Nelson Agbajor, lauded Senator Dafinone for his warm reception despite his busy schedule. He described the lawmaker as a compassionate leader whose concern for the welfare of his constituents extends beyond statutory obligations. Agbajor particularly praised Dafinone’s mediation role in the Okuama crisis, where his intervention contributed to the release of some victims.
The NUJ chairman announced that the chapel had passed a vote of confidence on the senator in recognition of his developmental strides and quality leadership. He urged him not to relent in his efforts, stressing that there is still much to be accomplished in Delta Central.
Senator Dafinone, in closing, assured journalists of his readiness to collaborate with them in building a better society, commending the role of the press in promoting accountability and fostering peace.
