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Tag: Sheriff Oborevwori

  • Protest: Oborevwori commends Deltans for embracing peace

    Protest: Oborevwori commends Deltans for embracing peace

    As Nigerians embarked on nationwide hunger protests, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has commended youths and stakeholders across the state for embracing peace, saying he feels their pains.

    Governor Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, expressed delight on the peaceful manner Deltans conducted themselves across the state.

    The Governor, said: “My dear youths of Delta, I thank you for the way and manner you organised yourselves today.

    “We are aware that Section 14(2) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

    “We shall continue to protect lives and property of our people.  As a state government, we remain committed to the ideals of good governance anchored in our MORE Agenda.”

  • Oborevwori urges Nigerians to shelve protest

    Oborevwori urges Nigerians to shelve protest

    Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Tuesday appealed to Nigerians to shelve the planned protest in order not to aggravate the nation’s challenge.

    The governor made the appeal when the National President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh and his delegation visited him, in Asaba.

    He said that the government was already addressing issues raised; adding that such protests would not solve the nation’s challenges considering the outcome of previous protests that were hijacked by hoodlums.

    He said, “Few days ago, I read your press statement on this protest and I was very happy.

    “Coming here today is an opportunity for you to talk to other fathers of faith in this state, to continue to put this state and the country in prayers.

    “We know it is a very hard time but our belief is that any time our people go to the streets to protest, the outcome is always different.

    “We know all the demands and requests of the protesters and we are doing our best to make sure that our people are being taken care of.

    “So, protest is not the solution at this time.”

    He urged the people to be united and remain peaceful to enable government move the state to a greater level.

    He noted that the people might have reasons to protest but the challenge was on how to manage it.

    “You have reason to protest but can you manage the protest? We have seen it in the past; we know what happened and how it ended. People were robbed and attacked.

    “We have listened to your cry and we are doing our best.

    “The solution is that we have to be more united and peaceful to see how we can move the state from the level it is today to a higher level and I believe we will achieve it.

    “So, your coming is a blessing because you need to talk to our people.

    “At the evening service today or tomorrow you can preach to our people not to take laws into their hands. There are people who are already planning to hijack the process.

    “You have a big role to play in this few days you will stay here and I know that this state will continue to enjoy peace,” he said.

    Earlier, Archbishop Okoh lauded Oborevwori, for his administration’s commitment to rapid infrastructural development of the state through rehabilitation of roads and construction of new ones.

    He said, “We commend your untiring efforts in maintaining peace and tranquility in Delta state.

    “It is an incontrovertible fact that peace is an indispensable factor in accelerating development and attracting investments and this you have done with passion.”

    He said that they were in the state for a great physical and spiritual importance called “Africa Sings”.

    According to him, it is an international choral music festival and singing competition billed to take place in Asaba, from Oct. 8 to Oct. 13.

    On the planned protest in the country, the Archbishop said most protests were usually being hijacked by miscreants.

    He appealed to Nigerians to explore other means of expressing their dissatisfaction with what was going on in the country.

    He, however, called on the government at all levels to come out with policies and actions that would reassure the common man that government was committed to improve the living conditions of the people.

  • Delta Assembly confirms 6 commissioner-nominees

    Delta Assembly confirms 6 commissioner-nominees

    The Delta State House of Assembly on Thursday confirmed the appointment of six additional nominees as commissioners and members of the State Executive Council.

    Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Dennis Guwor, announced the confirmation after the screening of the nominees during plenary in Asaba.

    Recall Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori had, in a letter, stated that the request was in pursuant to the powers conferred on him by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.

    The nominees were called one after the other to answer questions from members of the assembly.

    The nominees are: Mr Sunday Tataobuogwu, Mr Peter Uviejitobor, Mr Val Areyinka, Mr Trakiriowei ThankGod, Mr Ebikeme Clark and Mr Benjamin Okocha.

    The Speaker congratulated the nominees on their appointment and urged them to work toward achieving the ‘MORE Agenda of the  governor for the betterment of the people of the state.

  • ICYMI: Gov Oborevwori appoints more Commissioners, SAs

    ICYMI: Gov Oborevwori appoints more Commissioners, SAs

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday forwarded six additional names of nominees for appointment as commissioners to the House Assembly, for screening and confirmation.

    The names of the nominees were contained in a letter read by the Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Dennis Guwor, during its plenary in Asaba.

    The nominees include: Mr Sunday Tataobuogwu, the immediate past Chairman of Ika South Local Government Council, Mr Peter Uvuejitobor and Mr Val Areyinka.

    Others are: Mr Trakiriowei  ThankGod, Mr Ebikeme Clark and Mr Benjamin Okocha.

    The governor said in the letter, “I wish to inform the speaker and the members that this is in exercise, and the powers bestowed on me, by Section 192(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, (1999 as amended).

    ”I hereby nominate the following persons  for confirmation by the House for appointments as commissioners, and  as members of the Delta State Executive Council.

    ”I will greatly appreciate if early action is taken to place the names of the nominees before the House, for consideration and confirmation, to enable me effect their appointments, in line with the Constitution.”

    Consequently, the Majority Leader, Mr Emeka Nwaobi (PDP-Aniocha North), moved a motion for the assembly to note the governor’s letter accordingly for consideration.

    The motion was unanimously adopted by the assembly when put to a voice vote by the speaker.

    The speaker, consequently directed the nominees to submit 35 copies of their Curriculum Vitae, and other credentials, to the office of the Clerk of the House, Mr Otto Aghoghophia, on or before Wednesday.

    They will also appear before the house on Thursday for screening and confirmation.

    Recall that the governor had earlier forwarded the names of 28 commissioner-nominees to the state legislature  for similar consideration and confirmation.

    The assembly successfully screened and confirmed the appointment of the nominees.

    Out of the 28 confirmed nominees, four resigned their appointments, so as to contest the just-concluded local government councils election.

    Also at Tuesday’s plenary, Guwor and Nwaobi congratulated the State’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chapter and the newly sworn-in local government Council Chairmen of the 25 LGAS  in the state.

    The duo urged them to put in their efforts in ensuring that the people at the grassroots get the direly-needed dividends of democracy.

    Guwor particularly commended the Delta Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for successfully organising a free and fair local government election on Saturday.

    Oborevwori appoints 6 more Special Advisers

    Similarly, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori has approved the appointment of 6 more Special Advisers.

    The new Special Advisers are Hon George Oyefia, Mr Johnbull Edema, Hon Matthew Opuoru, Hon Ramsey Onoyake, Mr Toyin Agbolayah and Chief Jite Brown.

    According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, the date for the swearing-in of the new Special Advisers will be announced in due course.

  • Gov Oborevwori tasks newly sworn-in LG chairmen on fiscal discipline

    Gov Oborevwori tasks newly sworn-in LG chairmen on fiscal discipline

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, charged newly-elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 local governments in the state to embark on viable infrastructural projects and ensure modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent service delivery.

    Governor Oborevwori also tasked them to avoid profligacy typified by wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle, but to address the recurring problems of insecurity, poverty, unemployment and environmental decay in the various local government areas.

    Oborevwori gave the charge while swearing-in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 25 Local Government Areas in Asaba, the state capital.

    He explained that it was necessary for the chairmen to stay close to the people by operating from their area headquarters and warned that they must shun the unhealthy practice of running the local governments from offshore, especially Asaba and Warri.

    Governor Oborevwori, said: “To the elected Local Government Council Chairmen, I urge you to reciprocate the huge mandate that has been given to you by giving preference to the needs and aspirations of your people with a view to delivering good governance.

    “You must discharge your duties with sincerity of purpose, impartiality, compassion, fairness, and justice and I expect you to work assiduously for the actualization of the MORE Agenda.

    “As the third tier of government closest to the people, you need to improve the environmental sanitation in your communities. Our urban centres are riddled with filth as a result of improper waste disposal and poor sanitation habits of our people.

    “I will like to see you step up in this regard by devising proper waste disposal measures, while embarking on aggressive public enlightenment campaign to educate our people on good sanitation habits.”

    Governor Oborevwori, who reiterated that the state government does not tamper with local government funds, said he welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government autonomy, emphasising that statutory allocations to the local governments in the state for the last three months remained intact.

    He said as the then Speaker of the State House of Assembly, they voted for autonomy for the Councils during the 5th Constitution alteration session.

    “I, therefore, expect you to hit the ground running by embarking on visible infrastructural projects that can be commissioned.  You must shun wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyle.

    “Let your administrations be characterised by modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent project delivery.

    “As Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, we advocated for financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary.  The House also voted YES to Local Government autonomy during the Fifth Alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “Therefore, the Supreme Court judgment on financial autonomy for local government councils is a welcome development. Actually, Delta State Government has never tampered with local government funds. Rather, the state government has often had to augment the allocations to the local government councils to enable them meet their financial obligations”, he said.

    While charging the Chairmen to improve on their Internally -Generated Revenue, Governor Oborevwori cautioned against overtaxing an already burdened populace reeling under the painful effects of the current economic hardship.

    He said: “Your success on this job will also depend on your ability to work seamlessly with your Vice Chairmen, the legislative arm and other critical stakeholders in the Local Government Area. Please, avoid running a one-man show.

    “You must demonstrate the political sagacity to manage the local politics, and the administrative acumen to be all- inclusive to ensure peace, stability, and cohesion in your domains.”

    He expressed appreciation to the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, for conducting free, fair and credible elections and to the security agencies for ensuring peace and security throughout the exercise across the state.

    The newly elected Chairmen are Emmanuel Bazim Chinye, Aniocha North; Jude Chukwunkwike, Aniocha South; Dagidi Andaye, Bomadi; Julius Takeme, Burutu; Augustine Ogedegbe, Ethiope East; Christian Onogba, Ethiope West; Monday Odigwe, lka North East, Jerry Ehiwarior, lka South; Godwin Ogorugba, Isoko North; Warri Ovoke Friday, Isoko South; Vincent Osilonya, Ndokwa East; Obi Nzete, Ndokwa West; and Isaiah Esiovwa, Okpe.

    Others are Innocent Esewezie, Oshimili North; Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Oshimili South; Isaac Aguanah, Patani; Bright Abeke, Sapele; Vincent Oyibode, Udu; Jaro Egbo, Ughelli North; Lucky Avweromre, Ughelli South; Possible Ajede, Ukwuani; Anthony Ofoni, Uvwie; Festus Ashima, Warri North; Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Warri South and Sylvester Oromoni, Warri South West.

    While congratulating the new chairmen and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the resounding victory at the polls on Saturday, Governor Oborevwori said it was a product of weeks of grassroots campaign in which they did not take for granted and thanked the good people of Delta State who, in spite of the heavy downpour, came out and voted for the leaders of their choice.

    Responding on behalf of the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, expressed appreciation to the governor and leaders of the PDP in the state for the opportunity given to them to serve at the grassroots level of governance.

    He commended the electorate in the various local government areas for endorsing their candidature through the electoral mandate given to them at the polls, and assured that they have adopted the MORE Agenda of the Governor and would not betray the confidence reposed in them.

    The highpoint of the ceremony which was attended by the wife of the governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Kingsley Esiso, and other top government functionaries, was the administration of oath of office on the chairmen and their deputies by the governor.

  • Supreme Court ruling: We have no issues with LG autonomy – Oborevwori

    Supreme Court ruling: We have no issues with LG autonomy – Oborevwori

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has said that the State Government had no issue with the Supreme Court’s judgement on local government autonomy.

    He also affirmed faith in the transparency of the Local Government polls in the state, saying their transparency reflected his personal faith in democracy and due process.

    Oborevwori said that the State Government had over the years supported financial autonomy for legislature and the judiciary.

    Speaking to journalists shortly after voting at Unit 33, Osubi Ward 6 in Okpe Local Government Area of the state, Governor Oborevwori said the state believed in autonomy for the Local Government, hence he did not constitute Caretaker Committees for them at the end of the tenure of their immediate past chairmen.

    “When I came in, I did not constitute transition committees here in Delta State because I am not in support of transition committees and the Heads of Personnel Management (HPMs) were in charge for three months to enable us conduct elections and, today, by the grace of God, we are having our elections and early next week, those who won would be sworn in.

    “The Supreme Court judgment has no effect here in Delta State because we don’t tamper with local government funds.

    “As a former Speaker, we were in the forefront of the issue of autonomy for the legislature and the judiciary. So, that judgment does not affect us here in Delta State.

    “In the past, the State Government cleared monies owed by Local Governments in the state. JAAC (the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee) is just a monitoring process to ensure transparency,” Oborevwori added.

    On the local government polls, the governor expressed joy in the transparent process, adding that the elections remained free and fair.

    Governor Oborevwori said: “When we did the grand finale of our rally in Asaba, I said that we want free and fair elections and that is what we are doing now.

    “I came through that same process of free and fair elections and with all the opposition, I won by a very wide margin.

    “I have been up since monitoring the process and now I am here to cast my vote and having cast my vote, I am sure that the PDP will be victorious by the grace of God.

    “This election is a litmus test for 2027 elections which will show whether we are doing well in line with our MORE Agenda or not. For now, we are not borrowing to execute any project. We are doing our best for Deltans and we will continue to do more in the coming years.”

    The governor urged the incoming local government chairmen to be focused and not be distracted, adding that they are the closest government to the people at the grassroot.

  • Gov Oborevwori mulls mass transit buses in Delta

    Gov Oborevwori mulls mass transit buses in Delta

    Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Tuesday mulled the provision of state owned mass transit buses in Asaba and Warri following the ban on commercial motorcyclist.

    Oborevwori stated this when the Forum of Female Permanent Secretaries in the state led by Dr Mininie Oseji, visited him at the Government House, Asaba on Tuesday.

    The governor said that the state government actually needed a mass transit in view of the ban on commercial motorcyclists in Asaba.

    He said the state government would ensure the civil servants continued to live happily even after retirement.

    According to him, we actually need it now that people are clamouring for a ban on commercial motorcyclists in some parts of the state.

    ”Since the ban on commercial motorcyclists in Asaba and its environs, the crime rate has reduced. Initially, I was reluctant, but, today, we thank God the decision because it has helped to curb crime.

    ”We will think of the best solution to the mass transportation to Deltans, especially for the civil servants,” he said.

    He added that the state government would have long done it but was careful not to waste the state funds.

    The governor told the permanent secretaries that he was impressed with their performance and would look into their request for more residential quarters for their members.

    He charged them to continue to put in their best in helping to drive his MORE agenda.

    He noted that no effort would be spared in creating a conducive work environment for civil servants to operate, adding that they would be trained and retrained for maximum productivity.

    He said that the state had done well in creating a balance in the appointment of permanent secretaries.

    According to the governor, the state has 23 male and 17 female permanent secretaries .

    He assured them of continued synergy in the realisation of set goals.

    Earlier, Oseji appealed to the state government, on behalf of the forum, to revisit the planned provision of residential quarters for serving permanent secretaries.

    Oseji said that what they had currently was inadequate for the number of permanent secretaries in the state.

    She said the forum was established in October 2021 to provide a platform for female Permanent Secretaries to discuss matters of common concern and interests among others.

    She lauded the governor for the projects executed across the state, including provision of official cars for serving Permanent Secretaries.

    She described Oborevwori as a role model for his evident transparent and prudent management of funds, and pledged that they would follow his footsteps.

  • Gov Oborevwori pledges to strengthen NYSC in Delta

    Gov Oborevwori pledges to strengthen NYSC in Delta

    Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of  Delta says his administration will continue to strengthen the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the state.

    Oborevwori gave the assurance at the swearing-in of Batch B Stream 1 corps members at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Isele-Uku, on Tuesday.

    The governor was represented by the state Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari.

    According to the governor, NYSC has become an enduring vehicle for mobilisation and sensitisation of Nigerian youths on nation-building.

    “My administration recognises the critical role of the NYSC scheme in national integration and development efforts.

    “That is  why my administration is committed to strengthening the scheme and enhancing its capacity to meet its significant mandate of nurturing our young graduates with the abiding patriotic values of loyalty, dedication and absolute faith in Nigeria,’’ he said.

    He urged corps members to participate actively in physical and mental activities that would prepare them to face challenges of nation-building.

    `’My administration considers you as critical partners in our transformation efforts through our social contract with the people of Delta State as encapsulated in the MORE Agenda.

    “The agenda focuses on institutional and structural reforms as part of an overall programme of sustained economic growth and development,’’ Oborevwori said.

    He further said that his administration was committed to  pursuing rebuilding, maintenance, upgrade and expansion of  critical infrastructure.

    Earlier, NYSC Coordinator in Delta, Mr Olusegun Alao,  urged corps members to make the orientation course a memorable one.

    “It is expected that this three weeks orientation exercise will prepare these young Nigerians for the task of nation-building,’’ he said.

    He appealed to the state government to expedite action in fulfilling its promise of  providing a new 150KVA diesel generator for the scheme as well as perimeter fencing of the orientation camp.

    A total of 1,911 prospective corps members were registered in the Stream I.

  • The Sheriff Oborevwori leadership template – By Josiah Agoro

    The Sheriff Oborevwori leadership template – By Josiah Agoro

    By Josiah Agoro

    My attention has once again been recently drawn to an article titled: “Thinking Aloud: Is Governor Sheriff Oborevwori a Placeholder For Okowa?” written by one Ovasa Ogaga, who describes himself as a journalist and public affairs analyst residing in Ughelli, Delta State.

    Of course, it is typical of the likes of Journalist Ovasa Ogaga, in their usual manner of trumping up half truths and misinformation, to latch on to some populist word or slogan to express their bellicose points, without even understanding the meaning of the word and this time the choice word they have chosen is “Placeholder”.

    Ovasa Ogaga in his delusional enclave actually ponders aloud if “Oborevwori is a Placeholder for Okowa” and as hilarious as this may sound, it sadly also exposes the sheer ignorance of some shallow critics masquerading as hack journalists, in the application and usage of such words.

    For the avoidance of doubt, a placeholder is “Someone or something  used or included temporarily or as a substitute for something that is not known or must remain generic; i.e. that which holds, denotes or reserves a place for someone or something to come later.”

    The above definition and meaning of placeholder completely destroys from the onset, whatever conjectures Ovasa Ogaga had alluded to the person and administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for the very simple reason that on May 29, 2023, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, JP, rightfully swore an oath of office to become the substantive Executive Governor of Delta State. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is not and cannot be a Placeholder. The inauguration on May 29, 2023 has settled that misnomer completely.

    Again, Ovasa Ogaga’s prognosis that: “There were no clear-cut visions or policies regarding infrastructure development, education, healthcare, security, or the welfare of Deltans. The only visible campaign mantra was “Ukodo Go Reach Everybody,” is another clear manifestation of ignorance and an unfortunate admission that the so called Journalist from Ughelli, has not read or is even too lazy to read the very articulate and well packaged document which clearly itemizes and comprehensively deconstructs the MORE Agenda in its contextual framework and operational implementation under the Meaningful Development, Opportunities For All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace and Security components.

    Also, the severally rehashed innuendos on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s performance, which the likes of Ovasa Ogaga have continued to espouse, are now puerile and tiresome refrains from those who have deliberately blinded themselves to the glaring fact that the Governor is not only completing projects which were initiated when he was Speaker of the State House of Assembly, but has set the bar as the star Governor for true succession Democracy in its finest model, by also working in harmony with his predecessor, to ensure that Delta State does not experience the level of acrimonious bitterness which is the lot of many States. We must thank God for His small mercies.

    Ovasa Ogaga and his ilk have equally forgotten that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has only just completed one year in his first term of four years, in a Country that is experiencing excruciating national hardship and strangulation as a result of the suffering and suffocation imposed on Nigerians by the APC Government at the centre; a hardship carried over like a toxic plague from the previous APC administration when Ovie Omo-Agege was the Deputy Senate President.

    To even claim, as Ovasa Ogaga posited, that: “apart from the overhyped and over-inflated N78 billion Julius Berger flyover project in Effurun, the completion of a few rural and urban roads initiated by the Okowa’s administration, and continued work on sections A and C of the Ughelli-Ozoro-Kwale-Asaba road, Governor Oborevwori has engaged in selective governance”, is also dubiously being economical with the truth.

    Those who do not really comprehend and appreciate the nature of leadership and administrative governance will erroneously spin the lie that Government is working only when projects are Commissioned. Yet Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has in the last one year set down a leadership template which has achieved so much in addition to the Infrastructural Development which is robustly going on across the three Senatorial zones in the State.

    Salaries of over 50,000 workforce in the civil service are being paid promptly, promotions and regularly; payment to the tune of N5.522bn for civil servants promotion arrears has been addressed, Pensions payment has been guaranteed with a N40bn financial arrangement, Delta State Government, has concluded the payment of the 2022/2023 bursary to over 30,000 students of the State origin in Higher institutions across the Country, over 3,000 teachers have been employed, more than 118,000 persons have been empowered through the D-CARES programme, over 5,000 artisans and petty traders have received major financial support through the MORE Grants scheme, the Bureau of Wealth and Jobs creation has been re-energized with the appointment of a dynamic Chief Jobs creation officer, Health facilities have been upgraded and re-equipped and the agro-industrial park at Azagba-Ogwashi has successfully been completed, amongst others.

    Ovasa Ogaga should also know that in addition to the Emevor-Orogun road phase 1 and the High Court Complex Asaba (which was commissioned by former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan), there is also rapid progress in the construction of internal roads in Warri metropolis; advancement in the construction of the flyover at PTI junction, Effurun, Delta State by Julius Berger, Provision of over 60 transformers in various parts of the State through the Ministry of Energy, swift progress in the construction of the Isoko Ring Road, the Beneku bridge which is almost ready, as well as the newly completed Okpanam-Ibusa bypass in Oshimili North Local Government Area of the State which would be ready for inauguration sooner than later and many other infrastructural projects presently ongoing across the State.

    In the area of Enhanced Peace and Security, especially in relation to the oil and gas sector, Ovasa Ogaga and his sponsors will not only agree but also confirm the fact that youth restiveness has been curbed in the State and Delta State has witnessed zero protests/disputes, or engineered Shut Downs across the upstream, mid and downstream oil and gas subsectors, Employment opportunities have increased in the oil and gas sector, Host Communities have witnessed appreciable peace and development with the execution of Corporate Social Responsibility projects by the oil companies and new Dispute Resolution Mechanisms have been initiated which has achieved tremendous results including the swift aversion of intended shutdown of Otumara Flow Station in OML 43, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company Ltd in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State over Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) fallout, which would have cost Delta State 20,000/bpd, but has instead, ensured that production of oil and gas resources are stabilized to boost production capacities and in turn engender a stable and improved economy.

    In the last one year, the Delta State government under the astute, focused and strategic leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has successfully resolved the over ten years ownership tussle and claim to Well 9-Owhe Field in OML 30, operated by Heritage Operational Services Ltd. between Otor-Owhe and Olomoro communities in Isoko South and Isoko North Local Government Areas of the State, ensured the Swift resolution of a near crisis situation between Uzere Community in Isoko South LGA and Heritage Energy Operational Services Ltd. over the Independent Power Plant project;  successfully brokered a free gas supply arrangement by Heritage Energy Operational Services to the plant for the next two years on completion; ensured stability in the petroleum products’ supply chain in Delta State with the swift resolution of a dispute within the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, and was also instrumental to the peaceful composition of the PTD (NUPENG) leadership in Delta State.

    It is little wonder therefore that in this first year of the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori – led administration, Delta State won the Ms. Nafisa Aliyu Haruna Award for the “Safest & Most Peaceful State for Oil and Gas Investments in Nigeria in 2024” at a very credible award ceremony sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Abuja.

    How therefore, an administration that has embarked on these massive developmental strides and initiatives and achieved so much in such a short time, can be accused of engaging in selective governance beats the imagination of discerning, right thinking people, which the likes of Ovasa Ogaga does not belong to.

    And finally, most Deltans can easily attest to the kindnesses, benevolence and warm heartedness of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori which has not waned even with his ascendancy to the exalted position of the Governor of Delta State.

    It is indeed a display and manifestation of sheer wickedness and a hardened heart of evil and darkness for anyone like Ovasa Ogaga to accuse Governor Oborevwori of showing empathy and identifying with the family of Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi or Comrade Frank Kokori or the Asagba of Asaba, as well as rejoicing and celebrating with the families of close associates and peers like Olorogun Kingsley Esiso, when he gave his daughter out in marriage. May God not allow us have a leadership that will be praised for failing to relate with humanity and extend humane kindness to its citizens. Amen.

    Like Ovasa Ogaga rightly admitted in his write up, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori clearly told Deltans during his very robust and comprehensive campaigns that: “I Will Do More for Deltans” and those who have followed the trajectory of his administration objectively and dispassionately, will agree that he has already done very well in the last one year and Deltans are seeing and feeling the impact of the MORE Agenda in action in their lives. A placeholder would not have achieved the tremendous accomplishments Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has attained in only one year and there’s no doubt that the “Ukodo go reach everybody”, as he continues to give Delta and Deltans quality leadership in the years ahead.

     

    Josiah Agoro is a public affairs commentator and analyst.

  • PHOTOS: Congratulations pour in as Ovie of Agbarha-Warri receives staff of office

    PHOTOS: Congratulations pour in as Ovie of Agbarha-Warri receives staff of office

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Friday presented staff of office to His Royal Majesty (HRM), Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, the Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom in Warri South Local Government, Delta State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Oborevwori presented the staff of office to the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom with an admonition to maintain peace and harmonious co-existence in his domain.

    Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme during the presentation, said his administration holds the traditional institution of the State in high esteem owing to the important role it plays in governance, especially at the grassroots.

    He disclosed that through the partnership he enjoys with traditional stools in the State, the development goals of his administration are yielding dividends.

    Oborevwori, hence, promised to continue to cultivate and nurture the existing partnership as it makes a conscious effort to achieve its development goals.

    “We are here to witness and be part of the joy of the good people of Agbara Warri Kingdom on this momentous occasion of the presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpor Orereh, Igbi II, the Ovie of Agbara Warri Kingdom.

    “This administration holds the traditional institution in high esteem owing to the important role it plays in governance, especially at the grassroots.

    “My administration will continue to cultivate and nurture the existing partnership with the traditional institution as it makes conscious efforts to achieve its development goals through the MORE agenda.

    “The event of today is the high point of activities lined up for the installation of His Royal Majesty to the throne of his forefathers.

    “I commend the people of Agbara Warri for their ability to organise themselves in a most harmonious manner, which has resulted in the palpable joy and excitement that we are all witnessing today.

    “I sincerely hope that the love, understanding, unity, and sense of purpose that manifest themselves today, will become a permanent feature of all the activities of the people of Agbara Warri Kingdom.

    “Your Royal Majesty, as the prescribed authority in this kingdom, I urge you to uphold all the cherished cultural values and mores of your people.

    “You should also endeavour to be fair to your people through regular consultations and be even-handed in all the matters that affect both them and the kingdom.

    “I am hopeful that your ascension to the throne of your forebears will make a remarkable impact on the peace and harmonious coexistence of all inhabitants of Agbara Warri kingdom.

    “The people of Agbara Warri kingdom have a long history of good neighbourliness, peace, and love, both among themselves and other inhabitants.

    “The government, therefore, has every good reason to look forward to an enduring atmosphere of calmness and the attendant sustainable development in this kingdom,” the governor said.

    Oborevwori tasked the king to be proactive on issues bothering on security, urging the people of Agbarha-Warri to accord the king the needed privileges and respect that are required by the traditional institution.

    He further promised that their request for the development of the kingdom would be given priority.

    He said, “Dear good people of Agbara-Warri, I appeal to you to ensure that the love and joy of today are deepened.

    “You should all accord His Royal Majesty all the respect and loyalty that his office demands.

    “I urge all of you to be sincere and transparently honest in all your dealings with His Royal Majesty and extend every necessary assistance and cooperation to him to lighten the burden of his office.”

    In his welcome address earlier, Chairman, Staff of Office Planning Committee, Chief Chris Eyitemi Orode, said that the Agbarha-Warri Kingdom was strategic in building bridges of peaceful coexistence with the traditional rulers of Okere-Urhobo and other non-indigenes, making the area crisis-free.

    Chief Orode acknowledged the importance of peace in fast-tracking developmental activities in the state.

    He assured that the Agbarha-Warri kingdom would support the Oborevwori administration in sustaining peace across all ethnic nationalities in the area.

    Staff of office: Dafinone congratulates HRM Igbi II,  Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom

    Meanwhile, the Senator representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone has congratulated His Royal Majesty (HRM), Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi 11, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom on his presentation of Staff of Office by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, praying that his reign will usher in peace and development to the Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.

    The Delta Central lawmaker in a statement also congratulated the great people of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, urging them to continue to work and support the king to succeed.

    He noted that the success of any king is subject to the support and loyalty of his subjects, urging them to build on the spirit of unity and oneness displayed in the activities leading to the coronation of the Ovie and the official presentation of staff of office.

    Senator Dafinone’s statement reads; “on behalf of the Urhobo people whom I represent at the Senate, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, on this momentous occasion of your presentation of the staff of office by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    “This historic event marks a new chapter in the rich history of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom. It is a testament to your exemplary leadership, wisdom, and the high esteem in which you are held by our people and beyond.

    “As you assume this revered position, I pray that your reign will be characterized by peace, prosperity, and development of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom. May your leadership bring unity, progress, and a renewed sense of community among our people.

    “I pray that God graces you with wisdom to put the welfare of your subjects and kingdom far above other interests and I do not doubt that under your guidance, Agbarha-Warri Kingdom will continue to flourish.

    “Your Royal Majesty, as you embark on this noble journey, please be assured of my continued support and prayers. May your reign be long, fruitful, and filled with the blessings of peace and prosperity.

    “Congratulations once again, and may God bless the Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.”

    DESOPADEC boss congratulates Ovie of Agbarha

    Similarly, Olorogun John Obukohwo Nani, Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has congratulated the Ovie.

    According to Nani in a statement on Friday, the presentation of staff of office marks the beginning of a new era for not only the Agbarha-Warri people but also the Urhobo nation.

    The statement reads: “I wish to congratulate Your Majesty on your coronation as IGBI II, The Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

    “This significant occasion marks the beginning of a new era for not only the Agbarha-Warri people but also our beloved Urhobo Nation, and I am filled with pride and joy by your ascension to this revered throne.

    “As you take on this royal role, Your dedication, wisdom, and commitment to people’s well- being will undoubtedly guide your reign and I am confident that your leadership will bring prosperity, unity, and progress to Agbarha- Warri Kingdom and beyond.

    “On behalf of my family and the people of the oil- bearing communities in Delta State, I wish you a long, peaceful reign filled with achievements that honour our rich cultural heritage and propel the Kingdom toward a brighter future.

    “Congratulations once again, Your Royal Majesty. May the Almighty God continue to bless and guide you as you sit on the throne of your fore- fathers. Ajuwe! Ajuwe!! Ajuwe!!! Wo’Suo’Tor!”

    PHOTOS: Congratulations pour in as Ovie of Agbarha receives staff of office