Billboard to welcome Ibori in Oghara

Jethro Ibileke/Benin

Oghara, the home town of former Governor of Delta state, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, is agog and in festive mood, ready to receive him back home.

Ibori who was recently released from a London prison after serving jail term, returned to Nigeria in the early hours of Saturday.

It was reliably gathered that his plane touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 5:30 am.

Ibori was received and booked by officials of Nigeria secret police, the Department of State Services, DSS at the Airport.

The ex convict was taken to the DSS headquarters where he met with DG Daura and had departed  Delta State as at the time of filing in this report.

It was further learned that the former governor was to travel to Oghara, capital of Ethiope West local government area, his home town.

When the magazine visited Oghara the town wears a new look, with every road swept clean in readiness to receive their illustrious son home.

There was a large ‘welcome home’ banner with his picture, at the Oghara junction, along Benin/Warri road.

The residence of the former governor, located along Chief Ibori Avenue was already packed full with people who trooped there apparently to welcome him.

A live band is also on ground for entertainment.

Smell of paint pervades the palatial residence of the former governor, with the the buildings neatly painted milk and butter colours, and the side blocks of the walkway painted white and black.

The heavy presence of security operatives could be felt right from the entrance road, everywhere in the town and his residence.

As at the time of filing this report, it was gathered that Ibori who just landed at the Benin City airport under heavy security, was already on his way to Oghara.

Ibori, according to British government, was deported  having served out his 13 years jail sentence (served 6 1/2 years) in December for money laundering.

Ibori was accused of stealing about $250m from the Delta State Government part of which was used in buying six houses and luxury vehicles in the UK, the United States and South Africa.