WARRI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, , Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has appealed to leaders and elders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to put aside divisive tendencies and work together for peace, stressing that unity is essential for the sustainable development of Warri and the state at large.
The governor made the call on Friday at the funeral service of the late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah, held at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri.
Oborevwori cautioned against the misuse of social media to stoke ethnic tension, warning that such actions could derail peace and progress. “In all, what we need is unity. I have witnessed crisis and I know its consequences. People are using social media to cause problems, this must stop. I want to develop Warri because this is my home, and some of the young people today have not enjoyed the Warri we experienced back then,” he said.
Recalling his personal experience during past unrest, the governor narrated how his father’s house was spared while others were destroyed simply because it bore the inscription, “Sheriff Papa House.” He described the episode as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of communal conflict.
Declaring, “Warri dey sweet me for body,” Oborevwori expressed his deep attachment to the city, insisting that he has no other home. “I am a man with street credibility and local content, not from the diaspora. Now that I am governor, I am a governor for all, and I will not take sides,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to accelerating development across Delta State, assuring that he would not betray the trust of the people. “I want to do more for Deltans. I don’t want to fail. I will continue to show love to the people and deep respect for our leaders,” he added.
He urged critics, particularly those outside the state, to refrain from sowing discord and called on parents to caution their children against using social media for hate campaigns.
Paying tribute to the late Mrs. Agbolayah, Oborevwori described her as a woman of faith and integrity who raised her children with strong values. “Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a bishop. My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.
Earlier in his sermon titled “Fight a Good Fight” from II Timothy 4:7, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, Primate of the African Church, urged Christians to live as beacons of peace and integrity in a troubled world. He praised Mrs. Agbolayah’s devotion to service and legacy of faith.
The Primate commended Governor Oborevwori for his leadership, noting that the appointment of Dr. Toyin Agbolayah as Special Adviser on Community Development strengthened the family during their mother’s lifetime. “Your Excellency, you are doing a great job, and from the way you are going, Delta State will soon compete with Lagos in infrastructure. The people of Delta love you and we pray that God strengthens you to do more,” he said.
The service was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the State Executive Council, and other top government officials.
