The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration, accusing it of using media propaganda to cover up what it describes as poor governance and underwhelming performance since the governor assumed office 19 months ago.
The APC’s response follows a widely circulated video showing Governor Oborevwori berating a contractor over alleged substandard work during an inspection. The APC dismissed the video as a “staged performance” orchestrated by the governor’s media team to distract the public from his administration's shortcomings.
In a statement signed by the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo Esq., the party expressed concern over what it called a persistent trend of awarding state contracts to unqualified contractors with questionable credentials, often linked to government officials and political elites.
“Delta APC sees through this comical ruse, which appears to be a desperate attempt by the governor’s media team to salvage his deteriorating public image after nineteen months of lackluster performance, despite the receipt of trillions in federal allocations,” the statement read.
The APC alleged that critical infrastructure projects essential to Delta State's development have been repeatedly awarded to contractors with dubious track records, prioritizing political loyalty over competence.
“This troubling trend not only compromises good governance but also severely impacts the quality of infrastructure development in our beloved state,” the APC stated. “Contracts worth billions of naira are being awarded to political allies of the governor rather than qualified firms, leading to poorly constructed projects that fail to meet basic standards.”
The party cited examples of unfinished or poorly executed projects, including roads riddled with potholes, unsafe bridges, and public facilities that remain unusable. It also referenced the tragic incidents at the Asaba Stadium as a stark reminder of the consequences of substandard infrastructure.
The APC called on Governor Oborevwori to reevaluate the criteria for awarding contracts and to prioritize the welfare of Deltans over political patronage.
“It is imperative that the governor engages with reputable contractors known for their expertise and commitment to quality,” the statement urged. “Deltans deserve nothing less than the best in infrastructure development. Roads, bridges, and public facilities must meet safety and usability standards to enhance the quality of life and foster economic growth.”
The party also criticized the alleged kickbacks and financial patronage tied to the contracting process, calling for a transparent and merit-based approach to ensure quality projects.
Highlighting the risks posed by poorly executed projects, the APC reiterated its commitment to holding the state government accountable. “The people of Delta State cannot afford substandard infrastructure that jeopardizes their safety and well-being,” the statement emphasized.
The APC further called on all Deltans to demand transparency, accountability, and better governance from the state government. “Together, we can build a better, more prosperous, and safer Delta State,” the party said.
The Delta APC pledged to continue advocating for the interests of the people while closely monitoring the actions of the Oborevwori administration.
