Epiphany Azinge (SAN), the Asagba of Asaba, has urged the critics of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to be patient with him as he makes huge efforts in developing the State evenly.
According to him, the governor’s performance should not be judged based on Asaba alone because Delta is not a one-city State.
Azinge, a Professor of Law, who commended Governor Oborevwori for the prudent management of the State’s resources, was of the opinion that critics should appreciate the complexity and vastness of the before making comparisons with more compact states.
“Delta’s multi-city structure makes even distribution of development more demanding and should be considered when assessing the performance of Governor Oborevwori’s administration. Delta State cannot be assessed through the narrow lens applied to states with single dominant urban centres”, he said.
Speaking during an interview, Azinge said, “Delta State is not like a one-city state. You have Warri, Sapele, Ughelli, Abraka, Asaba, Ibusa, and so many others. Any government that takes care of all these numerous cities with the limited resources available is doing exceptionally well.”
He explained that the State’s spread of urban communities, coupled with its expansive geography, makes equitable development a complex and gradual process.
The monarch contrasted Delta with Lagos and Rivers, which have more centralised economic hubs that naturally concentrate development, adding that; “Asaba alone can compare with any other city. Talk less of Warri, Ughelli, Sapele, among so many others.”
While acknowledging that some communities particularly in what he described as the “wild land” areas of Delta may feel underserved, the Asagba maintained that the current administration is making deliberate efforts to extend infrastructure and economic development to all parts of the State.
He cited the recent groundbreaking ceremony of the Kwale Free Trade, Kwale, describing it as “no mean feat and a move that will generate far-reaching economic impact”.
Azinge called for patience, understanding, and realistic expectations, noting that the government must carefully balance resource allocation across diverse regions to prevent feelings of marginalisation.
“Let us underscore the point: Delta is not a one-city state,” he reiterated. “The way and manner resources are managed and spread must ensure every part of the State is satisfied,” he said.
