Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, describing the royal fathers as indispensable partners who make governance “easier and more effective.”
The presentation, held at Government House, Asaba, saw the governor hand over 60 Toyota Prado SUVs and five Land Cruiser SUVs to the monarchs to enhance their mobility and effectiveness, especially in rural and hard-to-reach communities.
Governor Oborevwori described the event as “a very important and symbolic day in the life of this administration,” noting that traditional rulers represent “a special class of leaders whose contributions to governance are critical, though often understated.”
“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” the governor said.
He commended the royal fathers for their consistent support, stressing that their roles in community mobilisation, peace-building, dispute resolution and support for security agencies are central to stability in the state.
“I can confidently state that traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State. I commend their unwavering commitment to peace, progress and prosperity,” Oborevwori said.
Explaining the rationale behind the gesture, the governor said the SUVs were deliberately chosen to withstand the difficult terrains many traditional rulers operate in. “These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service. What is required is strength, durability and functionality,” he declared.
He linked the initiative to his administration’s MORE Agenda of inclusive governance, reeling out ongoing social intervention programmes, including support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons under DCARES, grants to traders and artisans, empowerment of women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows.
“When we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness,” the governor added, noting that the gesture was “from the heart.”
Earlier, Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the presentation as a clear demonstration of the administration’s respect for traditional institutions and appreciation of their role in sustaining peace and unity across Delta State.
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, in his remarks, highlighted key developmental strides of the Oborevwori administration, saying the state was being governed with empathy, foresight and a strong commitment to collective welfare.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, described the gesture as timely and symbolic, noting that mobility is critical to the effectiveness of traditional rulers.
“A vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service,” he said, assuring the governor of the continued support of the traditional institution.
Other monarchs, including the Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor (JP), the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe I, and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), also expressed gratitude, saying the vehicles would significantly enhance their service to their communities.
