By Ogochukwu Isioma
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has said that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is sustaining peace and stability in the state through the equitable distribution of development projects across all local government areas.
Aniagwu, who stated this on Friday during an interview on TVC’s Politics Tonight, noted that the governor’s inclusive governance style and prudent management of state resources have significantly improved infrastructure, accountability, and public trust in government.
He said the Oborevwori administration, which came into office in 2023, has been guided by four thematic pillars — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security — which, he explained, serve as the yardstick for measuring the government’s performance.
“From the onset, the governor made it clear that the people’s money must work for the people,” Aniagwu said. “He has brought transparency and accountability into governance and has not borrowed from any financial institution since assuming office. Rather, he has managed resources prudently while settling over 50 per cent of inherited debts.”
The Commissioner disclosed that the government has launched an ambitious infrastructure drive covering all 25 local government areas, including road networks, bridges, and rural connectivity projects.
According to him, each local government initially received ₦1. billion for rural road development in the 2024 budget, which was raised to ₦2.1 billion in the 2025 proposal, with an anticipated increase to ₦5 billion planned for 2026.
He stated that the approach has eliminated political bias in project allocation, ensuring that even remote communities benefit from government presence.
“In every local government area today, the footprints of Governor Oborevwori are clearly visible,” Aniagwu said. “Projects are being executed not because of politics or votes, but because the Governor is clear in his mind that every Deltan deserves access and development.”
The Commissioner cited ongoing bridge projects in Orere and Asabasi, rural roads linking smaller communities such as Usiri, Ndokwa East, Bulu-Angiama, Patani, Uduophori and Gbaregolor, as examples of the governor’s commitment to inclusive development.
Aniagwu attributed the prevailing peace in the state to the government’s equitable distribution of projects and deliberate efforts to develop oil-bearing and riverine communities.
“Before now, people complained that projects were always in the pipeline, but the Oborevwori administration has taken them out of the pipeline and put them on the ground,” he said. “When people see their clinics renovated, their roads tarred, and schools upgraded, they realize government can work, and the tendency for agitation reduces.”
The Commissioner further explained that the administration introduced a whistleblower policy to strengthen accountability in project implementation.
He said the governor personally monitors reports from citizens who can submit evidence of poorly executed projects through a dedicated line.
“If you send evidence of substandard work, the governor himself responds. That is why everyone involved in project delivery is sitting up,” he stated.
Aniagwu also disclosed that the governor recently approved the release of ₦8.4 billion to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) to clear contractor debts dating back to 2010.
He said contractors owed up to ₦20 million were paid in full, while those owed higher sums received 50 per cent as part payment.
Additionally, he noted that the governor has cleared arrears of civil service promotions and substantially addressed pension liabilities, releasing about ₦10 billion to tackle outstanding payments.
“Governor Oborevwori is matching promises with action,” Aniagwu stressed. “His fiscal discipline and fairness have strengthened confidence in government and deepened peace in our state.”
He concluded by inviting independent observers and journalists to visit Delta State to witness the ongoing transformation.
“We don’t just talk about projects; we encourage people to come and see. That is why peace has continued to thrive — because Deltans can now see that government is working for them,” Aniagwu said.
