The immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, has berated Governor Sherrif Oborovwori over his poor performance in the last year and half, noting that except for the Effurun bridge, the governor has nothing meaningful to show for the over N900b it has received from Federal Allocation and Internally Generated Revenue.
Omo-Agege lamented the underdevelopment of the state despite the substantial revenues Delta has received from the federation account, driven by the 13% derivation fund and internally generated revenue. These funds, he claimed, have failed to translate into meaningful infrastructural and economic development.
He also has criticized successive PDP-led administrations in Delta State, asserting that serious governance has been absent since Chief James Ibori left office in 2003.
Speaking on Tuesday at Oghara in the Ethiope West local government area, where he formally welcomed Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu and her supporters, including former top PDP leaders who defected to the APC, Omo-Agege expressed his concerns.
As the 2023 APC governorship candidate, he stated that it was disheartening that Governor Sherrif Oborevwori has received over N900 billion from federal allocations, largely due to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's policies, yet Delta State has little to show for it apart from the N86 billion flyover bridge at Effurun.
"Since the election, I have deliberately refrained from commenting on the state of affairs in Delta, hoping that the governor would rise to the occasion. Unfortunately, nothing has changed, and it is now time to speak out. Delta State has greatly benefited from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic reforms, particularly the removal of petrol subsidies and the flotation of the naira, which have increased FAAC allocations.
"Although these policies have caused hardship, they are essential to transitioning our economy from import dependence to production and job creation. While the long-term benefits are emerging, including better growth rates, reduced imports, higher exports, and increased income for farmers, it is disappointing that Delta State has not effectively utilized these increased allocations to alleviate hardship and foster development.
"In the last year and a half, despite receiving over N900 billion from FAAC and internally generated revenue, the Delta State government has failed to develop the state. Instead, these funds have been used to service debts and satisfy political godfathers. It is imperative to oust unproductive leaders to secure a brighter future for Delta."
Omo-Agege further noted, "Apart from the N86 billion Effurun flyover, no major projects can be linked to these vast resources. Most internal roads are in deplorable condition, indicating that the state government has misplaced its priorities. These funds have been used to service debts and finance personal political ambitions, including Okowa's unsuccessful Vice Presidential bid and Oborevwori's governorship, rather than for the welfare of Delta's citizens."
He assured Deltans that the state's situation was not hopeless but redeemable. He emphasized that Delta APC is growing stronger and committed to taking the state in 2027. He urged APC leaders and members to work in unity to dismantle the unproductive PDP government and build a new Delta.
"I have known Hon. Erhiatake Ibori for many years and was honoured to support her political journey in 2015. Today, I proudly regard her as one of the most trusted loyalists in the House of Representatives, dedicated to advancing the President's Renewed Hope Agenda in the National Assembly.
"We also honour the enduring legacy of Governor James Ibori. His leadership and service to Delta State and Nigeria have left an indelible mark. Despite the efforts of subsequent governors, his foundational achievements remain unmatched. We thank him for supporting Erhiatake, who now carries the torch forward.
"Delta APC is stronger with Erhiatake's membership, and we anticipate welcoming more members to our progressive fold. We encourage party members to embrace new entrants and foster a united front as we build the New Delta Coalition ahead of the 2027 election.
"We take pride in our remarkable achievements in the 2023 elections, winning Delta Central and Delta South Senatorial Districts, with two of the three senators representing Delta State in the Senate. Although our governorship victory was denied by the PDP, we are determined to consolidate our successes and unseat the PDP in 2027.
"To our loyal party members, I urge steadfastness in our shared mission. Unfortunately, some members have chosen to align with the current government and endorse the governor for 2027. Let it be clear that such actions are not sanctioned by our party, and these individuals act solely on their behalf.
"As we move forward, I assure you that the APC will present a formidable candidate for governor in 2027. In line with our party's constitution, we will nominate a candidate who embodies our values and is committed to liberating Delta State from the PDP's hold. Together, we will tirelessly work toward a brighter future for our state."
