ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Government has moved to insulate governance from the pressures of the 2027 election cycle, with Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, declaring that strict measures introduced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori will ensure uninterrupted service delivery across the state.
Speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television, Aniagwu said the administration’s directive compelling political appointees with electoral ambitions to resign is a deliberate strategy to uphold transparency, enforce the Electoral Act, and prevent governance from being undermined by partisan interests.
He explained that the policy is anchored on existing legal provisions which require holders of appointive positions to step aside before seeking elective offices, noting that compliance is critical to sustaining democratic fairness.
According to him, the directive is also aimed at eliminating undue advantage, as retaining office while contesting elections could enable access to state resources and confer structural benefits over other aspirants.
“The law is very clear. If you are holding an appointive position and intend to contest, you must step aside. It creates a level playing field and avoids a situation where someone uses the privileges of office to gain undue advantage over others,” Aniagwu stated.
He further emphasised that beyond ensuring equity, the move would help prevent distractions within government, as officials would not be torn between their duties and political campaigns.
“Contesting while in office can be a major distraction. Instead of concentrating on governance, such individuals may abandon their duties to pursue campaigns. That is why the law requires them to step down,” he added.
Aniagwu noted that Governor Oborevwori remains firmly focused on governance, stressing that political activities would not slow down project execution or public service delivery in the state.
“He has made it clear that even on days when campaigns are scheduled, he will first attend to governance by commissioning or inspecting projects before proceeding to political activities. Governance will not suffer in Delta on account of politics,” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that the state recently approved over N400 billion worth of capital projects, with many already at various stages of processing and award, adding that contractors have been given up to 40 percent mobilisation to guarantee prompt execution.
He also revealed that several completed projects have been lined up for commissioning as the administration approaches its third anniversary, reflecting its commitment to infrastructural growth and development.
On the state’s political climate, Aniagwu said the governor has ensured inclusiveness and fairness among stakeholders, particularly following recent political realignments, thereby sustaining unity and stability within the system.
He attributed the peaceful conduct of ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses to transparent processes that have strengthened trust among party members.
Aniagwu maintained that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership approach, anchored on prudent resource management and consistent project delivery, has positioned Delta State as one of the most stable and financially disciplined in the country.
“Governor Oborevwori walks the talk. With the structures and processes already in place, governance will continue seamlessly, and Deltans will keep enjoying the dividends of democracy regardless of political activities,” he said.
