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By Emmanuel Samuel
In an era where the lines between governance and politicking are often blurred, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has drawn a clear distinction. His administration, according to the Delta State Government, is not prepared to trade governance for political expediency. This message was reiterated by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a recent media briefing in Asaba, the state capital. Speaking amid rising concerns over youth protests in Udu Local Government Area, Aniagwu took a decisive tone. He reiterated the government’s unwavering focus on development, transparency, and inclusion, regardless of political support or opposition. “Governor Oborevwori is not ready to play politics with governance,” he said, “but rather committed to delivering results that improve lives across all 25 local government areas.”
Since taking office in 2023, Governor Oborevwori has set out to build on the legacy of his predecessors while addressing long-standing infrastructure and human capital gaps. While some observers note that Udu LGA did not overwhelmingly support the governor during the 2023 elections, Aniagwu made it clear that the administration has not held back on development in the area. “Despite the political dynamics of 2023, this government has been more than fair to Udu,” Aniagwu noted. “Over 27.8 kilometers of roads and 24 kilometers of drainage systems have been constructed or rehabilitated in the local government alone.”
Among the most notable ongoing and completed projects in Udu LGA are: DSC Roundabout Flyover Project, a transformative infrastructure undertaking set to ease traffic congestion and enhance commercial activity around the Delta Steel Company axis; Rehabilitation of CAC Road located off Orhuwhorun Road, the project restores a crucial artery for residents and small businesses. Bezi Road Construction, a key connection off College Road, Aladja, linking communities for easier movement and access to social amenities.
Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usiefrun–Orhuwhorun Road Rehabilitation, a major route straddling both Udu and Ughelli South LGAs, bringing new life to a stretch long marked by neglect and erosion. Opete Road Reconstruction: This significant route runs from DSC Expressway by Plantation City to Opete Waterside, enhancing trade, mobility, and connectivity.
Urban and Community Roads: This includes Awharode Street/Lane in Oghior Town, Dickey Street in Opete, and Chief Godwin Okporoko Crescent, now in its second phase—all designed to unlock local economic potential and improve daily commuting, and Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road (Phases I & II): With Phase II already approved and in procurement, this road project ties together Udu, Uvwie, and Warri South-West, demonstrating the governor’s regional approach to infrastructure.
The administration is also focusing on economic development with a touch of modernity. A standout project is the Udu Harbour Market, currently under construction at a cost of N4.8 billion. The market, designed with 230 shops, a modern abattoir, lighting for night trading, and security features, is poised to become a commercial hub for local traders, farmers, and artisans.
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“This is not just about market stalls,” Aniagwu said. “It’s about empowering our people, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy in a sustainable way.”
Governor Oborevwori’s administration is also making strategic investments in healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. In Udu alone, four primary healthcare centres are being revamped and rehabilitated. In addition, the General Hospital in Otor-Udu has received a state-of-the-art 4D ultrasound scan machine, enhancing diagnostic services and maternal healthcare delivery. “These are not empty projects for political grandstanding,” Aniagwu emphasized. “These are tangible investments in the health and well-being of our people.”
Commissioner Aniagwu did not shy away from addressing the recent youth protests in Udu, pointing to what he described as a coordinated effort by “certain individuals” to misrepresent the facts and incite discontent. He cautioned residents, particularly young people, against being used as political tools by those seeking to gain relevance through misinformation. “This government is open to constructive criticism,” he said, “but we will not allow the gains we are making to be undermined by falsehood and sponsored unrest.”
In his view, open dialogue, transparency, and evidence-based accountability are hallmarks of Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style. “We welcome scrutiny,” he said. “But we must all stand for the truth.” The Oborevwori administration’s inclusive approach is deeply rooted in its MORE Agenda—an acronym for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. The projects in Udu exemplify this agenda in practice: bridging infrastructural gaps, improving healthcare, stimulating the economy, and promoting social equity. For a state like Delta, that is ethnically diverse and politically dynamic, Governor Oborevwori’s emphasis on governance without favoritism is not just strategic; it’s essential.
“Every LGA matters,” Aniagwu said. “Development must be people-centered and not skewed by how a community voted. That is the governor’s belief, and it is why the work continues across board.” The unfolding developments in Udu and across Delta State underscore a crucial point: Governor Oborevwori is building a legacy not on political loyalty, but on equitable governance. Whether through roads, markets, or hospitals, the message is clear—leadership must deliver results, not rhetoric.
In a region often characterized by political wrangling and uneven development, Sheriff Oborevwori’s calm but resolute focus on infrastructure, health, and economic empowerment is earning him cautious praise, even from critics. As Delta State continues on this path of growth, the governor’s choice to put governance above politics may well become the benchmark for a new kind of leadership, one driven by performance, not personality.
.Samuel, is a native of Delta, writes from Abuja
