ONICHA UKWUANI/Nigeria: Delta State, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, has called for the strengthening of Community Development Committees (CDCs) and vigilante groups across the state, stressing that their effectiveness is critical to maintaining peace and fostering grassroots development.
Sir Onyeme made the call on Tuesday at an empowerment programme organized by the Mishack Okonye Support Group in Onicha Ukwuani, Ndokwa West Local Government Area. The event, hosted at the residence of Sir Chris Osakwe, featured the distribution of support items to CDCs, vigilante groups, and members of the Okonye Support Group.
Represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Sir Chris Osakwe, the Deputy Governor commended Engr. Mishack Okonye for sustaining the support group before, during, and after the 2023 general elections, despite not holding any political appointment or government contract.
“Engr. Okonye has shown rare commitment to community development and political stability,” Onyeme said. “If we have proactive and successful CDCs and vigilante groups, our communities will be peaceful, and peace will provide the enabling environment for development.”
The Deputy Governor reiterated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s appreciation to supporters and urged them not to relent. He noted that dividends of democracy were already reaching Deltans in various forms—through projects, appointments, employment opportunities, and empowerment initiatives.
He further stressed the importance of partnership between government and citizens, urging Deltans to contribute meaningfully to societal growth rather than limiting themselves to criticism.
“Positive actions attract benefits,” Onyeme said. “Every Deltan must ask: what have I done for my people aside from what government is doing?”
In his remarks, Engr. Mishack Okonye pledged continued support for the Oborevwori administration, describing its success as a collective achievement for both Ndokwa people and the entire state. He emphasized the historic significance of having a Deputy Governor from Onicha Ukwuani and pledged to sponsor more initiatives to back the administration.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment—ranging from communication gadgets and uniforms for vigilante groups to financial support for group members—praised Okonye’s gesture. Community leaders including Chief Ferdinand Ossai, Chief Alika Ibobo, and Mr. Stephen Okunima also pledged continued loyalty to the Oborevwori government.
The event was attended by top political aides to the Governor, including Chief Godday Mgbabego (Executive Assistant on Political Matters), Chief Patrick Ogelenya (Executive Assistant on Chieftaincy Matters), and Comrade Fidelis Egugbo (Senior Special Assistant, Media).
