Oborevwori Endorsed for Second Term by Community Leaders
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has received a unanimous endorsement for a second term from Presidents-General of communities and kingdoms in the state.
The endorsement came during a meeting held on Wednesday in Asaba, following a motion moved by Chief Sunday Okiah of Abala Clan in Ndokwa East and seconded by Prince Godwin Okotie of the Itsekiri Nation. The motion was adopted through a resounding voice vote.
In his speech, Prince Igwe Nzekwue, President-General of the Delta State Forum of Kingdoms, Clans, and Communities, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his administration’s strides in infrastructure.
“Your programmes and projects are already yielding results, and the people are happy with the developments. We will continue to support you beyond 2027, just as we did in 2023,” Nzekwue assured.
Addressing the Presidents-General, Governor Oborevwori urged them to prioritize mediation and dialogue in resolving disputes to foster sustainable peace and development across the state. Reflecting on his tenure as Chairman of Osubi Community during the construction of the Osubi Airport, the Governor emphasized the importance of balanced leadership.
“When I was community Chairman, I stood by my people but ensured that they did not oppress Shell. At the same time, I worked to prevent Shell from oppressing the community,” he said. “That mediation and dialogue helped us complete the Phase 1 and 2 of the Osubi Airport. As community leaders, you must do the right thing to bring peace and unity to your communities.”
The Governor cautioned against confrontational approaches, urging leaders to adopt negotiation and inclusiveness. “When you fight, you will still end up resolving issues through mediation. Why not start with dialogue instead of confrontation?” he added.
Oborevwori also called on Presidents-General to ensure unity, peace, and accountability within their communities. “You are holding a position of trust. Listening to your people and serving their interests, not personal gain, is the only way to succeed,” he noted.
The Governor emphasized the need for collaboration with traditional rulers, highlighting the importance of mutual respect in fostering community progress. “Working hand in hand with traditional rulers will help you succeed. Some Presidents-General and traditional rulers clash, but managing those relationships is essential because their roles complement each other,” he said.
On infrastructure, Governor Oborevwori announced that over N2 billion had been allocated for road projects across the 25 local government areas. He also promised to revisit the widows’ programme by the first quarter of 2025.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Development, Dr. Toyin Agbolayah, lauded the Presidents-General for their critical role in grassroots development. “Without the Presidents-General, achieving meaningful development at the grassroots would be impossible,” Agbolayah said.
The meeting reaffirmed Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to peace, unity, and development while underscoring the vital role of community leaders in driving progress across Delta State.
