The publication of Delta State’s 2024 audited financial report in national dailies marks a significant moment in the state’s democratic journey and fiscal governance. In a political environment where opacity often undermines public trust, the deliberate move by the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to make the state’s financial position open to public scrutiny is both courageous and commendable.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated a clear commitment to prudent financial management and inclusive development. The audited report, as released by the State Ministry of Finance and led by the Commissioner, Chief Fidelis Tilije, shows not just figures, but a philosophy of governance rooted in accountability and public interest. Of particular note is the commissioner’s assertion that Delta State has not borrowed since the current administration came on board, even while internally generated revenue for 2024 surged past N157 billion. These are not just statistics; they are indicators of a disciplined fiscal culture that deserves recognition.
Transparency in financial reporting is not merely a bureaucratic formality—it is a democratic imperative. It allows the governed to evaluate the conduct of those in authority, and it sets the standard for participatory governance. For a government to gain and retain legitimacy, it must allow citizens to follow the money. With the publication of the audited report, Delta State takes an important step toward institutionalizing transparency as a pillar of its governance framework.
What further strengthens the governor’s scorecard is the evidence of delivery across critical sectors. Infrastructure development is visible and verifiable—from the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriageway to the ongoing construction of flyovers and rural roads across the 25 local government areas. The state’s investment in human capital through social welfare and the D-CARES programme, which has benefitted over 270,000 Deltans, also speaks to an administration mindful of its social responsibilities.
The significance of this public disclosure, however, must not be reduced to a political token. It must not be treated as a one-time publication aimed at optics or public applause. It should mark the beginning of a consistent, institutionalised practice of timely, comprehensive, and accessible financial reporting. Anything short of this would undermine the very ideals the Oborevwori administration appears to be advancing.
As a media organisation committed to the development of Delta State, Ndokwa Reporters views financial transparency as a necessary enabler of grassroots development. For communities in Ndokwa Nation and across the state to thrive, government action must be open to verification and citizen engagement. The media, civil society, and the broader public must be empowered with information to monitor progress, question decisions, and propose alternatives.
To this end, we encourage the Delta State Government to deepen this culture of openness. The people must see not only how much has been spent, but also on what, where, and with what impact. We urge the Oborevwori administration to ensure that future audited reports are equally published, with a simplified breakdown that allows for public understanding and discourse.
The publication of the 2024 audited account is, indeed, a bold and welcome development. But to sustain the confidence of the people, it must not end here. Let it be the beginning of a new era in public accountability—a tradition that defines not only this administration but those that will follow.
Only through sustained transparency and responsible governance can Delta State fully realise its promise of equitable development and lasting progress for all.
