Delta State, known for its rich cultural heritage and economic potential, stands at a crucial crossroads. The political atmosphere is rife with tensions and distractions, threatening to derail the progress the state desperately needs. Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori faces intense scrutiny, not just for his governance but also for his interactions with key political figures, particularly former Governor Chief James Onanefe Ibori.
A recent incident at the memorial mass for the 13th Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof Joseph Chike Edozien, has sparked widespread debate. A photograph showing an interaction between Governor Oborevwori and Chief Ibori went viral, only to be swiftly retracted by the Government Press Unit. However, a video of the interaction later emerged, showing a brief handshake exchange. The moment, initially misinterpreted by many as a sign of disrespect from Oborevwori to his predecessor, saw the governor initially seated before quickly rising to reciprocate the greeting. This trivial episode has been blown out of proportion, fueling unnecessary political drama.
The real issue is not this perceived disrespect but the broader implications for governance and leadership in Delta State. The state grapples with numerous problems, from inadequate infrastructure and education deficits to healthcare challenges and economic stagnation. These issues directly impact the lives of the people and demand immediate attention, overshadowed by political theatrics.
The media’s role in this scenario is crucial. Journalists and news outlets must resist being drawn into political distractions and instead hold the government accountable for its performance on key socio-economic issues. The citizens of Delta State deserve a government that prioritizes their welfare over political maneuvering. Governor Oborevwori and his administration must focus on delivering tangible development outcomes, improving public services, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the dividends of democracy reach every corner of the state.
The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), in a congratulatory message to the Governor on his one-year anniversary, commended him for completing some of his predecessors’ projects and initiating new ones. However, they emphasized the urgent need for attention to security issues affecting food production and the necessity of convoking an Economic and Social Development Plan for the state. The lack of industrial production activities is a significant concern that the government must address, rather than engaging in political discussions that do not contribute to the state’s positive development.
Governor Oborevwori’s development agenda, known as the M.O.R.E. agenda, is not a comprehensive development plan but a political manifesto. For real progress, manifestos should align with an established development plan tailored to the state’s needs. The closest Delta State has come to such a plan was Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s “Delta Beyond Oil,” which, despite its promise, failed to materialize fully. Development Plans set milestones as an organisation or state progresses. This Delta Lacks. It the bases for Key Performance Indicator (KPI).
As the Governor completes his first year in office, it is time for the media and other stakeholders to critically analyze the administration’s progress and focus on holding the government accountable for its promises. The controversy over Oborevwori’s greeting of Ibori should not distract Deltans from the essential task of ensuring the government’s actions align with the state’s development agenda.
While recent events involving Governor Oborevwori and Chief Ibori have sparked controversy, they should not distract from Delta State’s pressing needs. The media and all stakeholders must remain vigilant and committed to promoting good governance. By doing so, we can ensure the state’s leadership is held accountable, and the people of Delta State receive the development and prosperity they deserve.
For us at Ndokwa Reporters, any political argument that does not contribute to the socio-economic well-being of our state is a distraction. Let us refocus on what truly matters: the growth and development of Delta State.
