Oborevwori Declares Delta ‘No-Go Area’ For Opposition, Commissions Roads In Asaba
Oborevwori Boasts of Political Strength Amid Infrastructure Push
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori has declared that Delta State has effectively become a “no-go area” for opposition parties, citing the extensive infrastructure projects delivered under his administration as evidence of growing public support.
The governor made the remark on Friday during the inauguration of the 4.8-kilometre Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road in Oko Kingdom and a network of newly completed roads in Asaba, both located within Oshimili South Local Government Area.
According to him, the pace of development across the state has significantly strengthened citizens’ confidence in government and positioned the ruling party favourably ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“When I contested the 2023 election, I won in 21 out of the 25 local government areas even before becoming governor,” Oborevwori said. “With the level of development and projects we have delivered in almost three years, Delta State has become a no-go area for other political parties.”
Strategic Road Projects to Boost Rural Economy
The governor described the newly completed Oko road network as a strategic intervention that would improve connectivity between communities and enhance economic activities, particularly in rural farming areas.
He explained that the Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road had historically been difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season when flooding made transportation nearly impossible.
For many farmers, the poor road conditions meant that transporting farm produce to nearby markets was extremely challenging.
In some cases, farmers had to pass through neighbouring Anambra State to access markets, often selling their produce at very low prices due to the logistical difficulties of bringing the goods back.
“Today, I am happy that we have completed this road. Farmers can now move their fresh produce easily to markets, increasing their income and improving their standard of living,” the governor said.
He added that the road would stimulate agricultural productivity, reduce rural poverty and strengthen economic integration within the region.
Phase Two Approved at ₦16.9 Billion
Recognising the strategic importance of the corridor, the state government has already approved Phase Two of the road project at a cost of ₦16.9 billion.
Oborevwori disclosed that the contract had been awarded to Setraco Nigeria Limited, a construction firm handling several infrastructure projects across the country.
The contractor has been given a 24-month timeline to complete the second phase of the project.
However, the governor expressed confidence that the work might be completed earlier than scheduled, considering the pace already demonstrated by the contractor on previous projects.
Flooding and Erosion Challenges Addressed
Beyond rural connectivity, Oborevwori highlighted the significance of the Amaechi Agusi and adjoining road projects in Asaba.
He recalled that the area previously suffered from severe erosion and flooding, leaving many roads nearly impassable for residents and businesses.
With the completion of the road network and drainage infrastructure, the governor said the situation had improved significantly.
According to him, the project would ease traffic flow, reduce flood risks and support commercial activities within the rapidly growing state capital.
“Harvest of Projects” Across Delta
The governor described the current phase of development as a “harvest of projects,” noting that several major initiatives had either been completed or were nearing completion across the state.
Among the projects he listed were the upgraded facilities at the Government Technical College Omadino and new faculty buildings at the University of Delta in Agbor and the Southern Delta University in Ozoro.
Oborevwori said additional projects would soon be inaugurated in different parts of the state in the coming weeks.
“As I always say, we are working. When you come to Delta State, you will see the evidence of what we are doing. Governance is about performance, and the people can clearly see our report card,” he said.
MORE Agenda and Federal Support
The governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth and women empowerment programmes under the state’s MORE Agenda development framework.
He stressed that peace and political stability were essential to sustaining development efforts across the state.
Oborevwori further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic reforms introduced in 2023, noting that the policies had improved the fiscal capacity of states to undertake development projects.
Officials Highlight Project Impact
Earlier, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, explained that the newly constructed Oko road had been built above the flood level recorded during the devastating 2012 Nigeria Floods.
According to him, the design would ensure that the road remains usable even during heavy rainfall seasons.
The Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah, also revealed that more than 70 kilometres of roads had been completed or were ongoing within the capital territory.
He said the agency alone had executed about 50 kilometres of roads and more than 20 kilometres of drainage projects.
Ukah further disclosed that the long-awaited Asagba Road project in Asaba had received government approval and construction would begin soon.
Communities Pledge Support
Local leaders welcomed the projects and praised the state government for addressing longstanding infrastructure challenges.
The Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili, described the road projects as transformational interventions that would significantly improve economic opportunities for residents.
Traditional authorities also expressed appreciation.
The Palace Secretary to the Asagba of Asaba, Chief Patrick Ndili, and the Akor of Oko Kingdom, HRH Osita I, described the road development as a long-awaited intervention that would open the area to further growth and investment.
Both leaders assured the governor of continued support from their communities ahead of the 2027 elections.
