Aniagwu Defends Oborevwori, Slams Eselemo Over Criticism of Delta’s Development in Oil Communities
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and development in oil-producing communities, insisting that such investments have positioned the state as Nigeria’s leading oil producer and significantly boosted national revenue.
This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Friday night. Aniagwu was responding to criticism from Delta APC stalwart, Collins Eselemo, who questioned the economic value of investing in creek communities.
Aniagwu stressed that Delta could not have attained its status as the country’s highest oil-producing state without strategic investments in infrastructure and peace-building in its oil-bearing areas.
“Governor Oborevwori has brought significant development to our state. It is because of our deliberate investment in the creeks that we have not seen major incidents of pipeline vandalism. The people who live there have homes, own vehicles, and need access roads. That is why they are now part of the development conversation,” he said.
He debunked claims made by Eselemo regarding abandoned projects by the previous administration. “Former Governor Okowa didn’t commission the Ogulaha-Okonti-Odimodi Road, but he completed and inaugurated the 20.29km Obotobo I, Obotobo II, Sokebulou, and Yokiri roads in Burutu LGA. These are real projects in the creeks, not on paper.”
Aniagwu described Eselemo’s comments as ill-informed and offensive. “Eselemo questions the economic value of developing the creeks. It’s a shameful and shallow question—especially from someone who hails from that region,” he remarked.
Addressing political realignments, the commissioner noted that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership facilitated the recent wave of defections from the PDP to the APC in the state.
“We joined the APC to broaden the spectrum of development. We extended a hand of partnership to those we met in the party. It’s a process. Full integration takes time, but our goal is one Delta, united in progress,” he said.
Aniagwu dismissed claims that key bridges in Effurun and Warri are just 400 meters apart as “false and misleading.”
“Let Eselemo point out where Enerhen Junction is just 400 meters from the DSC Roundabout. One of the bridges exceeds 400 meters alone, and we are building three. Plus, we are expanding the entire corridor,” he explained.
He expressed confusion over Eselemo’s inconsistent arguments, suggesting the APC chieftain appeared unsure of his own criticism.
“Is he upset about our move to the APC, or is it the infrastructural progress under Governor Oborevwori? He keeps shifting points. I’m not even sure he knows what he’s angry about,” Aniagwu said.
On allegations that the state owes over N400 billion, Aniagwu provided a strong rebuttal: “Since Governor Oborevwori took office, he has not borrowed a single kobo. Instead, he has repaid over N280 billion in loans and contractual obligations, many inherited from previous administrations.”
He urged Eselemo to reflect on his performance and accusations. “Tonight, he was all over the place—attacking even his own party’s spokesperson. That raises serious questions about whose interest he really represents,” Aniagwu added.
Referencing Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo’s recent comments, Aniagwu said the state’s unity within the APC is strong. “Keyamo himself acknowledged that everyone has come together. So again, where exactly is Eselemo coming from?”
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s developmental direction: “We are making tangible progress. Delta is moving forward, and the records are clear for all to see.”
