BY SAM DUVWODE
Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has commended Deltans for supporting his administration and their peaceful conduct during the recent local government elections in the state. Governor Oborevwori made the commendation yesterday when he presented the Staff of Office to the Ibili Okpara-Uku of Idumuesah Kingdom in Ika North East Local Government Area HRM John Alika.
The governor, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, said the massive support and victory, candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) enjoyed at the election was a clear affirmation of the confidence and trust the people have on his administration and the party.
He promised to justify the confidence reposed in his administration by doing more for Deltans.
He said, “I would like to use this occasion to express my sincere gratitude to all Deltans for their peaceful disposition during the last local government election; the outcome of the election is an affirmation of the confidence and trust you have in this administration and our great party, the PDP.
“On our part, we will continue to justify your faith and belief in this administration; surely, we shall not fail you.” The governor added, “I am happy to be at this auspicious occasion of the presentation of Staff of Office to HRM, John Alika, and the Ibili Okpara-Uku of Idumuesah.
‘I congratulate the monarch, the people of Idumuesa, their friends and well-wishers on this occasion. Permit me to use this occasion to enjoin our royal fathers to remain the rallying point for peace and development in our communities. I urge you and other royal fathers to continue to mobilize your people towards well-being.
“At a time like this, communities should not only look up to the government for all the solutions to the myriad of challenges of sustainable development, because the resources of government are limited as other pressing needs and demands from various sectors also require the attention and action of government.”
Oborevwori emphasized that his administration has high regard and respect for the traditional institution in the state, as it was not only the custodian of the age-long customs and traditions but the only unreserved link with the past. He thanked the people of Idumuesa Kingdom for their gerontocracy practice since it does not lead to needless controversies, bitterness and unhealthy competition, which tears communities apart.
“Our royal fathers remain the link between the government and the grassroots in the mobilization towards understanding and supporting government policies and programmes.
“It is this realization that informs our avowed commitment to the enhancement of the status of the traditional institution in the State.
“Since the inception of this administration, we have not relented in our efforts in this regard and we will continue to give the institution all the honour it rightly deserves.
“It is important to consult your people in every decision that affects your community; please allow the overall interest of the community to inform your actions. I also implore this community, to accord the Okpara-Uku, the respect and honour that befit his status.
“Surely, your complaint on this subject matter among others, will be given attention as they will be channelled to the appropriate quarters for necessary advice and action,” Oborevwori added.
The Chairman of the Local Government Area, Monday Odigwe commended Governor Oborevwori and his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, for their unreserved support and assistance in tackling challenges facing the people of Ika North East.
Hon. Odigwe pledged to support the king, saying he would work tirelessly to promote the welfare, prosperity and the development of Idumuesa kingdom.
Earlier, the President-General of Idumuesah Progressive Union, Dr Raphael Dibie said the Idumuesah Kingdom was faced with insecurity from kidnapping and Fulani herdsmen attacks. He acknowledged the impact of successive administrations in the area of infrastructural development that the people have enjoyed over the years and appealed for more infrastructure in the area.
