Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a fair and peaceful resolution of the long-standing Ogbe-Ijoh and Aladja crisis in Warri South West and Udu Local Government Areas.
Speaking during a ‘thank you’ visit to Ijaw traditional rulers and political leaders at the Ugborikoko residence of the Pere of Ogulagha Kingdom and Chairman of the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers’ Forum, Captain (Elder) Joseph Timiyen, Governor Oborevwori assured both communities of his unbiased approach to resolving the dispute.
He commended them for maintaining peace and heeding his earlier counsel to cease hostilities, emphasizing that his administration remains dedicated to fostering unity and development across the state.
“I will not be sentimental in resolving this crisis. My administration is committed to fairness, and I urge both communities to remain peaceful while we work towards a lasting solution,” he stated.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the Ijaw traditional rulers and political leaders for their overwhelming support, which he credited as a key factor in his victory during the 2023 gubernatorial election. He acknowledged the patience and trust of the Ijaw people, assuring them that his government was delivering on its promises.
Highlighting developmental efforts, Oborevwori revealed that his administration had recently approved several projects for Ijaw communities, including the Ayakoromo Bridge project, which is being prioritized under an Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO). Additionally, he announced the establishment of a model school in Gbaramatu and pledged to address other concerns raised by the traditional rulers.
The visit also served as an opportunity for the governor to extend his condolences to the Ijaw Nation over the passing of their revered leader, Pa Edwin Clark.
In response, the Chairman of the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, Captain (Elder) Joseph Timiyen, expressed appreciation for the governor’s visit and pledged continued support from the Ijaw people. He, along with other traditional rulers, appealed for increased government intervention in education, infrastructure, and electricity restoration to riverine communities.
With Governor Oborevwori’s assurance of fair mediation and renewed development efforts, hopes are high for a peaceful and lasting resolution to the Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja crisis, paving the way for sustained progress in the affected communities.
