Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday charged the newly elected chairmen and vice chairmen of the state’s 25 local governments to prioritize viable infrastructural projects and uphold principles of modesty, fiscal discipline, prudent management, judicious allocation of resources, and excellent service delivery.
During the swearing-in ceremony in Asaba, the state capital, Governor Oborevwori also urged the new officials to avoid wasteful spending and extravagant lifestyles, instead focusing on tackling issues like insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and environmental decay in their areas.
“To the elected local government chairmen, I urge you to reciprocate the huge mandate given to you by prioritizing the needs and aspirations of your people to deliver good governance,” Oborevwori said. “You must discharge your duties with sincerity, impartiality, compassion, fairness, and justice, and work diligently for the actualization of the MORE Agenda.”
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of local leaders operating from their area headquarters and avoiding the unhealthy practice of managing local governments from outside, particularly from Asaba and Warri. He also highlighted the need for improving environmental sanitation, devising proper waste disposal measures, and educating the public on good sanitation habits.
Reiterating that the state government does not tamper with local government funds, the governor welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy and noted that the statutory allocations for the past three months remained intact. He stressed the importance of avoiding overtaxing the already burdened populace and working seamlessly with vice chairmen, the legislative arm, and other stakeholders to ensure peace and stability.
Governor Oborevwori also expressed appreciation to the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for conducting free, fair, and credible elections, and thanked security agencies for maintaining peace during the election process.
In response, Innocent Esewezie, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Council, expressed gratitude to the governor and PDP leaders for the opportunity to serve and assured that they would adopt the MORE Agenda and not betray the confidence reposed in them.
The ceremony, attended by notable figures including the governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; and PDP State Chairman Dr. Kingsley Esiso, concluded with the administration of the oath of office to the chairmen and their deputies by Governor Oborevwori.
