The Delta State Government has dismissed criticisms of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration contained in a recent article titled “Beyond Concrete: When Contracts Replace Governance in Oborevwori’s Delta,” describing the publication as an opinion piece built on conjecture, selective omissions and misleading assumptions.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, in a statement, Monday said the Oborevwori administration had, within three years, recorded significant achievements across critical sectors of the state’s economy through the implementation of the MORE Agenda.

Ahon stated that contrary to claims that the government was overly focused on infrastructure projects, the administration had pursued a balanced development strategy encompassing education, healthcare, economic empowerment, rural transformation, environmental sustainability and security.

According to him, one of the administration’s most notable accomplishments is its ability to execute numerous projects without loans, adding that the governor’s prudent management of resources had earned Delta recognition as one of Nigeria’s best-managed sub-national governments.

Defending the government’s infrastructure drive, Ahon said roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, flood control facilities and security infrastructure were essential components of economic development rather than mere construction projects.

He listed major ongoing and completed projects across the state to include the PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, Enerhen Junction, Otovwodo and Agbor flyovers, as well as the Trans-Warri Road and Bridges project, Ayakoromo Bridge, Kwale-Beneku Bridge and numerous urban and rural road projects spread across the three senatorial districts.

The Governor’s spokesman also highlighted extensive flood-control and drainage projects being undertaken in flood-prone communities, alongside urban renewal initiatives in Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Sapele and other towns aimed at improving living standards and attracting private investment.

In the health sector, Ahon said the administration had invested heavily in modern medical equipment, including CT scan machines, MRI facilities, dialysis machines and 25 state-of-the-art 4D ultrasound scanners distributed across the state’s local government areas.

He added that more than 150 primary healthcare centres were currently undergoing renovation and upgrading, while continuous investments were being made in healthcare infrastructure and personnel.

He added that a brand new College of Health Technology has been built in Ovrode, Faculty of Medical Sciences building at the Southern Delta University, Ozoro Isoko North Local Government Area.

On education, Ahon said the government had recruited thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff to strengthen learning outcomes in public schools, while upgrading educational infrastructure and revitalising technical education to equip youths with practical skills.

The statement further noted that the administration had empowered hundreds of thousands of residents through social intervention and entrepreneurship programmes such as D-CARES, MORE Grants, MORE Biz-Up, WESAP and the Working Fingers Initiative.

According to Ahon, the programmes have provided financial support, vocational training and business development opportunities to youths, women, artisans and small business owners across the state.

He also rejected allegations that agriculture had been neglected, insisting that the administration continued to support farmers through extension services, agricultural inputs, rural access roads and other initiatives aimed at boosting food production and improving livelihoods.

The government’s commitment to rural transformation, he said, was evident in the construction of roads, bridges, schools, healthcare facilities, water projects and electrification schemes in previously underserved communities, including riverine areas.

Ahon disclosed that several urban and rural water supply projects had also been rehabilitated and expanded to improve access to potable water and enhance public health outcomes.

Responding to criticisms over the proposed construction of police divisional headquarters in the 25 local government areas for the proposed state police, the Governor’s spokesman described the initiative as a strategic investment in the state’s security architecture.

He argued that while policing remains under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Government, state governments have historically partnered security agencies by providing operational support and infrastructure in the interest of public safety.

“The benefits of improved security accrue directly to Deltans, their businesses, farms and communities. A secure environment attracts investment, promotes commerce and enhances the wellbeing of citizens,” he stated.

Ahon maintained that the administration had recorded measurable progress across all sectors, stressing that development should be assessed by its impact on the lives of citizens rather than by commentary.

He said visible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, water supply, security and economic empowerment across both urban and rural communities were evidence that Governor Oborevwori is delivering on his promises through the MORE Agenda.

The Chief Press Secretary reaffirmed Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to meaningful development, opportunities for all, realistic reforms and enhanced peace and security, noting that the administration would remain focused on sustaining the transformation of Delta State.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State on his historic re-election victory, describing it as a well-deserved reward for purposeful leadership and people-oriented governance.

In a congratulatory message on Sunday, by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori noted that Oyebanji’s landslide victory in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election reflected the confidence and trust the people of Ekiti State have in his administration.

Oyebanji, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was declared winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after securing 319,224 votes.

Governor Oborevwori said Oyebanji’s victory was particularly significant because it marked the first time a sitting governor in Ekiti State had successfully won a consecutive second term since the return of democratic rule in 1999.

Oborevwori said the outcome demonstrated the growing acceptance of Oyebanji’s leadership style, which has been widely acknowledged for promoting inclusiveness, development and political stability in the state.

He also lauded the unity within the APC in Ekiti State, noting that the support of party leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members contributed significantly to the governor’s overwhelming victory across the state’s 16 local government areas.

“Your re-election is a clear endorsement of your administration’s achievements and your commitment to the welfare and development of the people of Ekiti State,” Oborevwori said.

He expressed confidence that Oyebanji’s second term would consolidate ongoing development programmes and further advance the socio-economic growth of the state.

The governor wished his Ekiti counterpart continued success, wisdom and good health as he prepares to embark on another four-year term in office.

The  Executive Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, Hon. Barr. C.S. Possible Ajede (Ph.D.), on Friday 19th June 2026, convened a reconciliatory meeting with the chiefs of Obiaruku Community to settle the lingering leadership dispute over who is the rightful Okpala Uku General.

The meeting was against the backdrop of the recent installation of a parallel Okpala-uku in a leadership impasse between Umusume and Obi-Ugbe quarters of Obiaruku.

The prolonged meeting brought together chiefs from all 13 quarters of Obiaruku. The Executive Chairman reviewed the background of the dispute and gave room for inputs to ensure that everyone had an opportunity for fair hearing.

As the Chiefs outlined the key issues surrounding the selection of the Okpala Uku General, the Chairman requested the council’s records, specifically the report of the committee he established in 2021 to document the ages of four elders in each quarter. The committee report, chaired by late Mr. Osekene, was presented, with some committee members in attendance.

A Chief read the report aloud to the council of Chiefs present, and its contents provided the basis for the resolution: the currently installed Okpala Uku General is confirmed as the traditional ruler. Although he shares the same birth year, the report places the present Okpala Uku first, and the Chairman emphasized the importance of relying on a document signed by sons of Obiaruku.

The Chairman criticized the installation of a new Okpala Uku General without proper procedure. Following the committee’s recommendations, the Onochi Eze and the palace chiefs were instructed to engage the Umusume and Obi-Ugbe Quarters to pacify them, and ensure that they continue to promote unity in Obiaruku.

Reciprocating the kind gesture of the Council boss, Barr Solomon Possible Ajede PhD, the chiefs thanked the Executive Chairman for his Solomon-like wisdom in restoring peace, and  pledged to work together as one family and as a community.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Thursday marked his 63rd birth anniversary with a thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, where he expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and guiding him in leadership.

Speaking during the service, Governor Oborevwori said the occasion was not about elaborate celebrations but about returning thanks to God for His faithfulness and mercy.

Saying he is a committed Christian, the governor said giving thanks to God was more important than any social celebration associated with his birthday.

“I have come here to thank God. The most important thing for me today is to give God thanks because He has kept me and sustained me. Every other celebration is secondary,” he said.

The governor appreciated Deltans and his supporters for the goodwill and support they have continued to show him, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to serving the state diligently.

“I thank all those who have shown me love and support over the years. By the grace of God, I will continue to do my best to serve the people of Delta State and justify the confidence reposed in me,” Oborevwori stated.

He urged citizens to continue praying for those in positions of authority, stressing that leadership requires divine guidance and wisdom.

Oborevwori said; “Pray for me, pray for the state, and pray for all those in authority. We need your prayers as we continue to serve. I believe that by God’s grace, everyone will have an opportunity to fulfil their purpose in life”.

Governor Oborevwori also commended the chaplaincy team for their dedication for maintaining regular worship activities at the Government House Chapel.

Earlier in his sermon titled, “What Is Your Prayer to God?”, the Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Venerable Charles Osemenam, congratulated the governor on attaining the age of 63 and prayed for God’s continued guidance upon his life and administration.

Drawing his message from 1 Kings 3:7-12, Osemenam highlighted the importance of seeking wisdom from God, using the example of King Solomon whose request for wisdom pleased God and enabled him to govern effectively.

The cleric noted that Governor Oborevwori had demonstrated a commitment to peace, unity and inclusive leadership across Delta State, adding that such virtues reflected God’s grace at work in his life.

According to him, governing a diverse state such as Delta requires divine wisdom, patience and a heart committed to peace.

He commended the governor’s efforts in fostering harmony among the various ethnic nationalities and communities in the state and prayed that God would grant him greater wisdom and strength to continue leading the state on the path of peace, progress and development.

The thanksgiving service was attended by family members, government officials, political associates, clergy and worshippers who joined the governor in celebrating the milestone and offering prayers for continued success in his administration.

Highlight of the service was the cutting of the birthday cake by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, supported by his wife, Clerics and top government functionaries.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) extends its congratulations to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 63rd birthday.

In a statement issued and signed by Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli, FCIMS, MNIPR and Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, FCIMS, MNIPR, Forum’s Chairman and Secretary respectively, the Forum noted that the Governor’s birthday comes at a significant period in the life of the state, coinciding with the completion of three years of his administration, adding that this milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on the policies, programmes, and initiatives undertaken by the government during the period.

DOPF acknowledges the efforts of the Oborevwori administration in advancing its development agenda through infrastructure projects, governance reforms, and investments in critical sectors of the state’s economy. The Forum also recognizes the administration’s emphasis on continuity in governance and its pursuit of policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens across Delta State.

As stakeholders in the information and media space, members of DOPF have closely observed developments in the state and appreciate the importance of accountable leadership, prudent management of public resources, and sustained engagement with citizens in the pursuit of development objectives.

The statement reads in part:-

“On this occasion, the Forum commends Governor Oborevwori for his service to Delta State and encourages the administration to sustain efforts geared towards promoting inclusive growth, strengthening public institutions, and addressing the evolving needs of the people.”

DOPF wishes the Governor good health, wisdom, and continued strength as he carries out the responsibilities of his office.

Member representing Ndokwa West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Hon. Charles Emetulu, has called on youths in Ndokwa Nation to desist from vandalizing government facilities, warning that such acts undermine development and deprive communities of essential infrastructure.

Emetulu, who made the appeal on Thursday while hosting members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, stressed the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding public projects and installations across the area.

Expressing concern over the destruction of government facilities in some communities, the lawmaker said investments made by government were intended to improve the welfare of the people and should be protected for the benefit of all.

“Government does not provide infrastructure for itself. These facilities are put in place for the benefit of our people, and it is therefore wrong for anyone to vandalise or destroy them,” he said.

He urged traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to take deliberate steps to ensure that public assets within their domains were adequately protected.

According to him, community leaders must rise to the responsibility of safeguarding government properties and facilities located in their areas, noting that protecting public assets would encourage more development and attract greater government presence to communities.

Emetulu maintained that preserving public infrastructure should not be left to security agencies alone, emphasising that residents and leaders must work together in the interest of future generations.

“The responsibility of securing government facilities is a collective one. Our youths should channel their energies into productive ventures instead of engaging in acts that are detrimental to the growth and development of our communities,” he stated.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to the growth and development of Ndokwa West Constituency and the entire Ndokwa Nation, assuring that efforts would continue to be directed towards improving the wellbeing of the people.

He also commended members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum for their contributions to the promotion of responsible journalism and development-oriented discourse in the area.

“I appreciate the role being played by members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum in projecting issues that affect our people and promoting development in Ndokwa Nation,” Emetulu added.

Earlier, Chairman of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, Hon. Barth Ineh-Ozah, commended Hon. Charles Emetulu for granting members of the forum audience and for his continued support towards the growth of the body.

Ineh-Ozah said the forum remained committed to upholding professionalism and ethical standards in media practice while promoting responsible journalism in the interest of Ndokwa Nation.

He explained that the association was established to foster unity among media practitioners of Ndokwa extraction and provide a platform for constructive engagement on issues affecting the area.

According to him, members of the forum would continue to contribute to the development of Ndokwa Nation through objective reportage, advocacy and initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, progress and social cohesion across communities.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday rallied stakeholders across the state to unite against terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality, declaring that security remains a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and citizens.

The governor made the call while delivering his keynote address at the Delta State Security Summit 2026 held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, with the theme, “Security: A Collective Responsibility.”

The summit brought together heads of security agencies, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups, youth and women organizations, and members of the business community to deliberate on strategies for strengthening peace and security across the state.

Governor Oborevwori said the security of lives and property remains fundamental to sustainable development, noting that no society can prosper in an atmosphere of fear and instability.

“Security remains the foundation of every prosperous society. Without peace and stability, economic growth slows, investments decline and communities struggle to thrive. This is why the protection of lives and property remains one of the most important responsibilities of government,” he said.

The governor stressed that while government and security agencies have constitutional responsibilities to maintain law and order, lasting peace can only be achieved through collaboration among all stakeholders.

According to him, “The theme of this summit is both timely and relevant because it reminds us that security is not the responsibility of government alone. Traditional institutions, religious bodies, businesses, civil society groups and every citizen have critical roles to play in building a safe and secure society.”

Oborevwori disclosed that his administration had continued to strengthen the state’s security architecture through strategic partnerships with security agencies and communities, while making substantial investments in security operations and logistics.

He said the state government recently restructured and strengthened Operation Delta Sweep, the state’s joint security outfit, which has recorded significant successes in combating crime across Delta.

The governor further disclosed that, in preparation for the eventual establishment of state police, the State Executive Council approved the construction of divisional police headquarters in all the 25 local government areas of the state.

He also highlighted the establishment of the Delta State Security Trust Fund as a sustainable platform for collaboration between government and the private sector in supporting security operations.

The governor said; “I assure Deltans that government is in the process of procuring additional operational vehicles and security equipment, while efforts are ongoing to train and retrain personnel to improve our security capabilities”.

Calling for greater public cooperation with security agencies, the governor emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering and timely information sharing.

Oborevwori said; “If you don’t share information, security agencies are not magicians. They operate based on intelligence and credible information. Criminals thrive when communities remain silent and stakeholders work in isolation.

“The strongest security systems are built on trust, cooperation, vigilance and timely sharing of information. If you see something, say something.

“Let me make a resounding statement that Delta State condemns every act of terrorism recorded in any part of our country. We will continue to unite against terror until our nation is fully safe and secure for all citizens.

“I call on every resident of Delta State to be security conscious and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. Together, we can enhance peace and security in our communities”.

He expressed optimism that the summit would produce practical recommendations capable of strengthening community participation, improving intelligence gathering and deepening collaboration among stakeholders.

Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, said the summit was convened in response to growing security concerns across the country and the need for proactive engagement with critical stakeholders.

According to him, the gathering was designed not only to identify security challenges but also to develop actionable solutions that would enhance peace and security throughout the state.

In their goodwill messages, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Commander 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Asaba, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, and Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, Commodore Shehu Tasiu, commended Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering support for security agencies and his commitment to maintaining peace in Delta State.

Brigadier General Shonibare particularly praised the governor’s intervention in addressing tensions arising from the Warri Federal Constituency ward delineation exercise, noting that his leadership helped avert a potential crisis.

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated uncommon commitment to security. His intervention and engagement with stakeholders helped prevent unnecessary bloodshed and contributed significantly to the peace we currently enjoy,” he said.

The military commander also noted that incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state had reduced considerably due to improved collaboration among government, communities and security agencies.

Delivering a lecture on the theme of the summit, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, John Oyeniyi, emphasized that modern security challenges require a whole-of-society approach.

He identified kidnapping, cybercrime, cultism, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, drug trafficking and communal conflicts as some of the major security threats confronting Nigeria.

The police commissioner stressed that effective security depends on strong collaboration among government, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious bodies, the private sector and citizens.

The summit ended with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to work together in safeguarding lives and property and sustaining Delta State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and investment-friendly states.