…Says decision deliberate
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, on Wednesday, presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, explaining that the decision was deliberate given the rural and difficult terrains many of them operate in.
Speaking at Government House, Asaba, while handing over the 60 brand new Prados and five Land Cruiser SUVs to the royal fathers, he said the vehicles were for ease of movement, even as he commended the monarch for making governance easier and effective in the state.
He stated that royal fathers play a frontline role in mobilising communities, promoting government programmes, resolving disputes, and supporting security agencies, often without expectation of reward.
“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots.
“Our Royal Fathers are often on the road, responding to government directives, mediating in communal disputes, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution. They do all these voluntarily and willingly. For this, we are truly grateful,” Oborevwori expressed.
“These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service. What is required is strength, durability and functionality, and that is what these vehicles provide,” the Governor declared.
He linked the gesture to his administration’s broader philosophy of inclusive governance under the MORE Agenda, particularly its pillar of Opportunities for All.
He listed a wide range of social intervention programmes already implemented by his government, as well as the landmark achievements in workers’ welfare, pension payments, scholarships, bursaries, and financial assistance for Delta indigenes in Nigeria Law Schools.
“From the foregoing, it is clear that every segment of our population has been touched. So, when we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness,” he said.
HRM Major-General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd) Orhue I, the chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, in a vote of thanks, described the governor’s gesture as a timely and deeply symbolic intervention that strengthens grassroots governance and peace-building across the state.
He noted that mobility remained central to the effective discharge of traditional rulers’ responsibilities. “A vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service.”, he said and assured of the unwavering support of the traditional institution to his administration.
