Delta State Government Refutes Viral Video on First Lady’s Visit, Reaffirms Commitment to Development

ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu has dismissed a viral video involving some nursing students during the visit of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, stating that it does not accurately depict what transpired at the event.

Speaking at a press conference in Asaba on Thursday, the Commissioner clarified that the First Lady’s visit was a two-day working engagement that resulted in significant benefits for the state and the entire South-South region.

“Our dear First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was in Delta State not for a holiday but on an official visit. During her stay, she generously distributed over 10,000 medical kits to the six states of the South-South region, using our state as the point of distribution. Her visit was well-received, and she was warmly welcomed by our people. We are very pleased with her contributions to our state,” the Commissioner stated.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the viral video, the Commissioner emphasized that the First Lady did not visit the School of Nursing in Agbor, as some reports suggested. He explained that some nurses at the event had expected to receive medical kits, but the current phase of donations was specifically targeted at midwives. Recognizing their disappointment, the First Lady personally apologized and assured them that nurses would also benefit from the initiative in due time through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

“There was no incident of hostility or bullying during her visit. The nurses were welcoming, cheerful, and even danced while the First Lady addressed them. However, a few playfully expressed their feelings by singing a different tune in response to the situation. Unfortunately, some individuals on social media misrepresented this moment to fit their own narratives,” he explained.

The state government expressed its deep appreciation for the First Lady’s visit and dismissed the misleading narratives being circulated online.

“As a government, we reiterate our gratitude to the First Lady for her support and contributions. The reaction seen in the video does not represent the general disposition of our nurses but rather a few individuals who desired equal treatment with midwives. We remain committed to ensuring that all categories of healthcare workers receive the support they deserve,” he added.

The Commissioner also reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government to enhance development in Delta State. He highlighted the state’s active engagement with federal agencies to advance the MORE Agenda and ensure maximum benefits for the people.

“Our partnership with the Federal Government has already yielded results. On Sunday, we participated in the concessioning of the Benin-Onitsha Expressway, a move that will significantly ease transportation along that corridor. Additionally, the Federal Government has committed to completing the 17.5km road alignment linking the Second Niger Bridge from Issele-Azagba, a project we fully support,” he noted.

He also commended the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for acknowledging Governor Oborevwori’s dedication to infrastructure development and human capital enhancement.

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated unwavering commitment to fulfilling the constitutional mandate that the security and welfare of the people remain the primary purpose of government. We appreciate the Federal Government’s initiatives in our state and look forward to more collaborative projects in the near future,” he concluded.