By Barth Ozah

There are different kinds of people created by God, just as there are different kinds of politicians all over the world. While some people joined politics for self aggrandizement others equally joined the frail for love and the needs to help shape humanity on the part of development.

Obviously, Senator Ned Nwoko belong to the category of the later. A man with deep love for the people. He is equally loved by the people as he is adored by the youths, celebrated by the women and revered by all. He is passionate about addressing the numerous challenges confronting his immediate constituency of Anioma in particular.

An example of his passion for service will suffice! Few days after his inauguration as the senator representing Anioma, he returned back to his community where he hosted the people of Anioma and the entire state in a ceremony tagged, ‘grand ball celebrations.’

Speaking at the historic ceremony heralding his inauguration, Senator Nwoko never minced words about unveiling his vision for the people. He was frank, simple and direct while addressing the mammoth crowd who thronged in to welcome him from Abuja.

He said he will work for his people in every sphere, sector, and area whether it is a collective interest or an individual interest, he will make sure government  address all the needs of the people, ranging from health, education, road, employment, and empowerment of the youths.

“As a friend of the governor, i will not allow him to rest until the governor does those things that can be done by the state, I love the people, I love being around the people as a grassroots person.

“When the inauguration was to take place, many people from the lowest to the highest called me that they will be coming to Abuja and they insisted that I should have a reception in Abuja but I told them if I will have a reception in Abuja for 200-500 people, that will not serve the purpose. Again, I told them that they should not worry that I am coming back to the grassroots for Anioma people to have a reception and anybody who can come from Ndokwa, Ika, Aniocha, and Oshimili can come to be part of the reception.

“For example, if the reception is been done in Abuja, the governor and members of the state Assembly won’t be able to be there. Only a few people will have the opportunity to be there and I also don’t like the idea of people traveling a distance journey based on the risk involved. I am happy that it has taken place here and I am also happy that many of our people were able to attend. I was born in the village, I’m still a village boy despite my education and exposure, I am happy being around the people because I love the people and the environment.”

On Tuesday, in demonstration of his genuine interest and love for the people, Senator Nwoko commenced his post election engagements with a meeting of the representatives of Ndokwa youths drawn from the 30 clans that made up of the 3 LGAs in Ndokwa nation.

Addressing the youths, Senator Nwoko  said he would be the senator for all indigenes and residents of Delta North as the people share common  constraints, needs and aspirations.

He told the youths of Ndokwa nationality  that he had a deep knowledge of the challenges of the area and pledged to ensure  effective representation that would engender  improved quality of life and sustainable development.

Assuring the youths of a better future, the senator said he is poised to  initiate regular interaction with political leaders youths as well as oil companies operating in the area  to address unemployment, lack of basic amenities, environmental degradation among other problems affecting the generality of the people.

Nwoko who is the Chancellor of Sports University Idumuje-Ugboko, announced  that a campus of the university  would be established in Ndokwa land noting that  Ndokwa people have  appreciable record of excellence in Sports including swimming and hoped the Sports university, would encourage them to become global champions in sporting activities.

“As Delta North Senator my agenda is for Anioma people and those who reside in Anioma land. My focus is on everyone whether PDP, APC, LP or those that are not politician. Men and women, youths, male and female would be carried along. I understand the difficulties and desires of the people. I will speak and act for everybody  and all  segments. I assure the constituents of equity while serving as your senator.”

Senator Nwoko is the pride of the old and a source of inspiration for the youth. Men like to flock around him, women love to hear him speak, even children can’t seem to have enough of him. With Nwoko as the senator it is clear that Anioma district will be reckoned with in this dispensation.

Barth is a journalist and the Councillor representing ward 7 in Ndokwa West LGA.

BY SAM DUVWODE

The group, Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunisation and Nutrition (ACOMIN) has called on government to prioritize the health of its citizens by taking swift and decisive measures to improve living conditions and eliminate the breeding grounds for malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

ACOMIN also urge government and relevant stakeholders at all levels to support Community Based Organizations (CBOs) implementing projects towards elimination of malaria in communities across the State.

The call was made by the Delta State Chairman, Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunisation and Nutrition (ACOMIN), Pastor Greg Sifo at Orchid Hotel Asaba during the State Media meeting on Global Fund Malaria Community Led Monitoring Project Being Implemented by ACOMIN.

Pastor Sifo use the occasion to enjoin people in rural and urban commuities to make use of mosquito treated Nets and cultivate the habit of keeping their environment clean.

According to him, the use of mosquito treated Nets is imperative in order to prevent malaria which is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

He call on government at all levels to provide infrastructure and equipment, implement effective recruitment and retention strategies to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals and prioritize the development of reliable electricity and water infrastructure in healthcare facilities.

Also, Dr. Julie Aniah of the State Malaria Programme Management, advised residents in communities especially pregnant women to discourage the use of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), saying that, TBAs because they are not well trained health personels sometimes cause complication and infections on pregnant women during birth delivery.

Dr. Aniah advised pregnant women to always make use of malaria treated Nets, go for malaria test and ensure that they get the right treatment from Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in their community.

Delivering a speech, the State Program Officer, Sir Austin Uwede, noted that, Malaria is a serious disease that can be life-threatening which can be prevented and treated, but if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can progress to a severe form that is often fatal..

According to him, malaria is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. It is spread by female mosquitoes of the Anopheles species. He added that Weather plays a role in the transmission of malaria.

“Nigeria experiences high levels of rainfall between June and September, which leads to increased malaria transmission during these humid months. Malaria incidences thrive in areas with unsanitary conditions, such as stagnant water, poor drainage systems, and inadequate waste management”.

Sir Uwede noted that, to address the issue of unhygienic living conditions and prevent the spread of malaria, urgent action and collective effort from the public are needed.

He said; “Sleeping under Insecticide-Treated Nets is crucial as they provide a physical barrier against mosquitoes, these nets are effective in reducing the risk of infection, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and young children”.

Sir Uwede advised government to enhance waste management systems to ensure efficient and effective waste disposal and develop sustainable solutions and initiatives aimed at improving living.

He noted that, as part of a national effort to address the challenges of Malaria in Nigeria, ACOMIN is working with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) on the ongoing Global Fund (GF) Malaria Grant, to continue implementing the civil society component. The grant is presently being implemented in the thirteen (13) GF-supported states namely Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, ligawa, Kwara, Niger, Taraba, Gombe, Yobe, Adamawa, Ogun, Osun, and Delta States. The project covers 8 LGAS in each state. In Delta state, the selected LGAS are Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Isoko North, Ndokwa West, Sapele, and Patani.

He said ACOMIN is using this medium to call on the mass media to contribute to Nigeria’s goal of eliminating malaria by amplifying that, all members of the public should ensure that their environments are well-kept and void of stagnant water, waste-forming receptacles for water, and open water storage containers around where mosquitoes can breed.

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday, said his relationship with the grassroot and common man would not be affected by his meteoric rise to becoming Governor of the state.

He stated this at the his inauguration thanksgiving/60th birthday anniversary service at the Living Faith Church, and reception ceremony in Asaba.

Oborevwori said that his relationship with the people at the grassroot was very key in his political sojourn and would never stop.

He said: “I want to start by thanking all of you who have come to celebrate with me. Your presence means alot to me.

“What I just have to say here is that you know me very well. I am still trying to fit into the shoes of a governor. You all know my relationship with the people at the grassroot, that relationship is very key and will not stop.

“I want every one to be patient, more appointments will come and there will be more development for the state, even as I sincerely thank all our leaders for their show of love to me”.

The Governor who had earlier at the church service appreciated God for his life said; “with immense joy, I have come here today to give thanks to God for His goodness, faithfulness, sustaining grace, and blessings over my life.

“My celebration today is in two-fold, first is to give God all the glory for my successful inauguration as Governor of Delta State and secondly is to appreciate God for adding another year to me.

“When I joined politics, I did not have the ambition to be governor. Like many politicians, it was purely out of a desire to contribute my quota towards the growth and development of our state and country.

“But by divine orchestration, I found myself serving as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly in the 6th and 7th Assemblies, and now Governor.

“So, I have every reason to come into His sanctuary to give all the glory to Him because I am who I am today purely by the grace of God.

“When I look back at my life’s journey, I realise that God has had His Hand upon me even when I did not know or acknowledged Him.

“In my years of unbelief and disobedience, He was there guiding, guarding, and protecting me. Now that I have come to the knowledge of His saving grace and Lordship, it is important that I consciously and intentionally engage in this spiritual activity to honour His name because it is not everybody that lives to the age of 60.

“At 60, I am healthy, strong, and in sound mind; He has also blessed me with a wonderful family. It is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in my eyes”.

The Governor who spoke further, appreciated his spiritual father, Bishop David Oyedepo for his special birthday message and for his guidance over the years and also thanked his predecessors and all political leaders across the state for their support.

“I appreciate the sent man over this Commission, Bishop David Oyedepo, who has been a true father, an inspiration, and motivator.

“My thanks go to the State Pastor, the Resident Pastor and his team for their love and support, and for graciously accepting to hold this special Thanksgiving Service.

“My appreciation also goes to my predecessors and all our party leaders and stakeholders whom God used in making me Governor of our dear state. I thank you all and I assure you that we shall make good use of this mandate to the glory of God and for the good of our state,” Oborevwori added.

On his part, Anambra Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, said he was delighted and excited to associate with Governor Oborevwori, saying Anambra and Delta being joined together by the Niger Bridge, great business opportunities await the twin cities of Onitsha and Asaba.

“Am excited to be here to have this great hand shake across the Niger. It is indeed a great pleasure to be with you to have this handshake of partnership between Anambra and Delta.

“It is my prayer and that of the government and people of Anambra State that as you celebrate your 60th birth anniversary today, we wish you many bountiful years of service to humanity and Delta state,” Soludo stated.

Governors of Edo and Bayelsa States who were represented by their deputies and Oyo State Governor represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, also paid glowing tributes to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on his birthday.

In their remarks, former Governors of the state, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, congratulated Governor Oborevwori for attaining the diamond age and welcomed him to the league of elders in the society.

State Pastor of the Living Faith Church, Pastor Triumphant Obamoh in a sermon titled “Gratitude for greater altitude”, said behind every success was the help of God, adding that ingratitude will cut off man’s source of grace and greatness.

He congratulated Governor Oborevwori on his 60th birth anniversary and urged him to continue serving and trusting God as his only source.

Dignitaries who graced the thanksgiving were, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, Edo State Governor represented by his deputy, Philip Shuaibu, Bayelsa Governor represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ehwrudjakpor; Governor of Adamawa State, represented by Senator Aminu Iya Abbas; Oyo State Governor represented by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Oguntoyin.

Also present were Deputy Governor of the state, Sir Monday Onyeme; immediate past governor of Delta, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and wife, Edith; former Governor, Dr Emmanuel and wife, Roli; former Deputy Governor Chief Benjamin Elue.

Other dignitaries included the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his deputy Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo. Members of the National and State Assembly.

Chief Great Ogboru; Chief Goodnews Agbi, Gen. Alexander Ogomudia; Mr John Siakpere; Professor Sam Oyovbaire; Chairman of Airpeace Mr Allen Onyema; Former President General of Urhobo Progress Union Chief Joe Omene; traditional rulers and a host of others also graced the occasion.

The Executive and Legislative Arms of the Ndokwa West LGA, have felicitated with the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sherriff Oborevwori on the occasion of the governor’s diamond jubilee celebrations.

In a good will message issued in Kwale, the council headquarters and endorsed by the executive chairman, Chief Goddey Obi-Nzete, prayed to Almighty God to grant Governor Oborevwori more favour and long life.

The message read: “the Ndokwa West Council management felicitate with you, your family and friends as you mark your 60th birthday. Life is the greatest of all gifts God has given to man. It is therefore a thing of joy that God has kept you in good health, and blessed you with success in life.

“As you celebrate, the entire Ndokwa West LGA wish you more glory and pray God’s grace will continue to sustain you on the lanes of favour and sound health.” the statement reads.

The statement lauded the former lawmaker turned governor for his steadfastness in service to Delta state  over the years.

“We recalled the leadership of Oborevwori as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly DTHA, for six uninterrupted years (2017 -2023), pointing out that his stewardship was a pride to the government and people of the state.”

The statement described governor Oborevwori as an astute lawmaker, a successful politician and a community leader whose contributions to the political and socio-economic development of the state cannot be undermined.

Members of the Ambrose Alli University Alumni Alliance For Empowerment have congratulated Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his victory at the poll and successful swearing in as the fifth executive governor of Delta State.

The Alumni body also congratulated the governor on his 60th birth anniversary saying he is worthy of celebration having used his life to impact lives positively.

President of the AAU ALUMNI Alliance, Mr Frank Miller who stated this at the end of its meeting held in Warri, Delta State urged Deltans to give their maximum support and cooperation to the Sheriff Oborevwori administration.

Mr. Miller who was flanked by the vice President and Secretary of the Alliance Oyamenda Oziegbe Jerome and Ogugu Ekuevugbe Avborho and other members appealed to Deltans to rally round the Sheriff Oborevwori administration to enable him deliver on his MORE agenda of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace and Security for the state.

The Alumni body expressed confidence that Rt. Hon.Sheriff Oborevwori will deliver on his campaign promises to Deltans being a man of his words and integrity,adding that Deltans will witness more practical development in all sectors of the state’s economy.

“We are glad and proud that at last, an Alumnus of Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma is now the Executive Governor of Delta State, we are particularly excited about his inaugural speech where he promised to restore the city of Warri and environs to its proper status by bringing the desired development to the area with modern infrastructure”.

“We also congratulate Rt.Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on his diamond jubilee birthday celebration and pray God Almighty gives him divine strength and wisdom to run the affairs of Delta state”.

The AAU Alumni Alliance said the diamond birth anniversary of the governor was an ample opportunity to appreciate Rt . Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for his development efforts in Delta State.

According to the body,Rt.Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has contributed immensely to the growth and development of Delta State having used the legislative platform being a Speaker for six unbroken years to enact bills that have given direction for positive growth and reiterated that as governor Deltans were in for MORE development hence the need to support him.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD

LEKKI / With the aim of fostering academic excellence and nurturing young talents, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) Pyrates Confraternity, pledged to support pupils of Nursery & Primary Schools in their journey towards becoming spelling bee champions within the next five years. This came as the association generously donated educational materials to exceptional pupils of Ajiran Nursery & Primary School Agungi in Lekki, Lagos Nigeria.

Members of the Hispaniola Deck (Lekki-Lagos Branch) of the Pyrates Confraternity embarked on the remarkable initiative on Wednesday, 14 June, 2023, as part of the Association’s ongoing commitment to empowering students and enhancing their educational pursuits.

Responding to questions from newsmen, Mr. Chidi Mbadiuga (1st Mate of Hispaniola Deck), who led the NAS delegation to Ajiran Nursery & Primary School Lekki, Lagos, noted that “Recognizing the critical importance of education and the profound impact it has on young minds, the “National Association of Seadogs, a leading Humanitarian organization is geared towards creating a nurturing environment that will foster intellectual growth and encourage students to reach their full potential.”

He said the visit to the school provides the privilege of interacting with the outstanding students of Ajiran Nursery & Primary school, who exhibited remarkable passion and dedication for learning.

While distributing wide range of educational materials including dictionaries, spelling guides, reference books and interactive learning tools carefully selected to enhance the students’ linguistic abilities and broaden their vocabulary, Mbadiuga expressed the Pyrates Confraternity’s readiness to providing comprehensive support to exceptional students to become spelling bee champions.

“The Association will collaborate closely with Ajiran Nursery & Primary School and its faculty to implement specialized training programs, workshops, and mentoring sessions designed to hone the students’ spelling skills and equip them with the necessary techniques to excel in competitive spelling events.

“Our visit to Ajiran Nursery & Primary School was an incredible experience, and we are deeply impressed by the talent and enthusiasm demonstrated by the exceptional students we met.

“We firmly believe that every child deserves the opportunity to develop his/her potential, and we are committed to supporting these young spellers as they work towards becoming champions in their chosen field by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance. We aim to empower them to achieve their dreams.” The 1st Mate of Hispaniola Deck of NAS asserted.

Management Staff of Ajiran Nursery & Primary School Lekki Lagos during the Pyrates Confraternity ongoing free educational materials distribution to pupils
While inviting stakeholders in education and the wider community to join hands in supporting the noble course, assuring that, together they can transform the lives of exceptional pupils by empowering them to become champions in the world of spelling and beyond, Mbadiuga noted that “The National Association of Seadogs is known for its unwavering dedication to educational initiatives. And this project serves as a testament to its commitment to fostering academic excellence and enabling young talents to thrive.

“In the next five years, the Lekki Chapter of the Pyrates Confraternity will continue to work closely with Ajiran Nursery & Primary School, monitoring the progress of the exceptional students and providing continuous support to ensure their success in spelling bee competitions.” Mbadiuga noted.

Beneficiaries (Pupils) of Ajiran Nursery & Primary School Lekki Lagos in a group photograph with some members of the Pyrates Confraternity
In their separate remarks, the management, teachers and pupils of Ajiran Nursery & Primary School Lekki expressed their profound appreciation to members of the Pyrates Confraternity for the kindly humane gesture. And called on the other humanitarian service rendering organizations to emulate the National Association of Seadogs.

While appreciating the National Association of Seadogs for selecting his school amongst the very many in the locality, the Head Teacher of the school, Mr. Ibrahim Akuruyegbo, said he was very elated to receive the NAS delegation.

Akuruyegbo pledged his support and cooperation in all necessary ways to ensure the laid out plans of the Pyrates Confraternity for the school comes to fruition.

By Jonathan Afesuku

DELTA State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, has called for cooperation between security agencies and civilians to ensure a peaceful society.

The Deputy Governor observed that one of the cardinal aspects of the M.O.R.E. agenda of the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is peace and security, noting that with good understanding between security agencies and the public, peace that will ensure a conducive environment for progressive activities to take place would be ensured.

Sir Onyeme spoke on Thursday when honorary members of 63 Brigade Officers’ Mess, led by its Chairman, Chief Ikechukwu Victor, paid him a courtesy visit at his office, Government House, Asaba.

“As civilians, we should not be afraid to relate with security operatives; soldiers are humans like you and I; they laugh and also cry; most of the senior officers are even more compassionate, more gentle than us

“There should be a good connection between the men in uniform and the civilians, especially in the area of sharing ideas and information that will make our state and country more peaceful,” the Deputy Governor said.

He particularly thanked members of the Officers’ Mess for serving as a bridge between the military and civilians.

The Deputy Governor said, “as honorary members of the officers’ mess, you perform a lot of roles; though, some people say that you are soldiers without uniform, but the fact is that you do more than that, you are a bridge between the soldiers and the civilians, or the general public that they are protecting.

“The more people you have in the association, the more you are able to bridge the information gap between the men in uniform and the civilians.”

He commended the honorary members of 63 Brigade Officers’ Mess for identifying with him on his successful assumption of office as Deputy Governor and challenged them to be actively involved in building a state that they will be proud of.

Earlier, Chief Ikechukwu Victor, while congratulating Sir Onyeme for his election and successful assumption of duty as Deputy Governor of Delta State, assured him of the continuous support of the group and Deltans for the Rt. Hon. Oborevwori’s administration to succeed.

The Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, was among those who witnessed the visit.

Nigerian businessman, Obinna “Obi” Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana is celebrating 15 years wedding anniversary with his wife.

The Philanthropist made this known on his Facebook post today.

Cubana wrote, “15 yrs! See how God has blessed and multiplied us in everything! God has been good to us, so good! Happy wedding anniversary my baby @lush_eby . You said you wanted a 15th wedding anniversary ball, tonight you get one, the best!!!. I love you, forever ❤️”

Credit: Facebook // Obi Cubana

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday received in audience members of the National Association of Nigerian Students, led by the President, Usman Umar Barambu at the state house.

The visit comes less than 24 hours after the President signed into Law the student loans Bill into an Act, that will provide easy access to higher education for indigent Nigerians through interest-free loans from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.

The president during the visit said; “Poverty should not prevent anybody, any child, including the daughter or son of a wood seller, ‘Bole’ (plantain) seller or yam seller from attaining their highest standard of education. If we all believe that education is the greatest weapon against poverty, then we have to invest in it. If you eliminate poverty from one family, you can carry the rest of the weight.”

Therefore, he pledged that his administration would commit more resources to the education sector to ensure that every Nigerian child, regardless of their background, has access to quality education.

President Tinubu, who promised to consider the requests of the NANS leaders, urged the student body to ensure unity among its members across the country to achieve more.

“You have to promote unity and stability among each other. You have to employ democratic means in your programmes and elections. I have to say, anyone who is unable to accept and celebrate a free and fair election, does not deserve the joy of victory,” he advised.

He thanked the students for supporting the removal of subsidy on petrol, explaining the reasons behind the decision and the need to curb smuggling.

”I’m glad you understand the reason for the subsidy removal. We were at a point where Nigeria tried to draw water from a dry well and that is no longer acceptable and we equally must not continue to service the smugglers because they used to take our tankers and Premium Motor Spirit across the borders. We will put our money where our mouth is,” he said.

The leader of the delegation, Umar Barambu, said the purpose of the students’ leaders visit was to thank the president for the signing into law of the Student Loan Bill, which will provide loans to indigent students such that no Nigerian student in tertiary institutions will drop out of school over inability to pay school fees.

The Bill, sponsored by former House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, was signed into law by President Tinubu on Monday, June 12, which is Democracy Day.

Barambu said “We are here to congratulate you and to thank you for what you have been doing to the country since you assumed responsibility as the President. We want to equally thank you for the Students Loan Bill.”

Speaking to State House Correspondents after engagements with the President, Barambu revealed that they urged him to review the constitution of the special committee that will oversee the new Nigerian Education Loan Fund to include student representatives.

He said the students want the inclusion of its past national leaders and the exclusion of lecturers and lawyers from the loans board as provided in the Students Loan Act.

Speaking on the contentious clause of the Act, the NANS President said: “We have outlined the clauses that we are not too comfortable with. And part of them is the issue of that board that we mentioned to the President, which we said at least students’ representatives should be captured and there are some organisation that they put there, which to us, they don’t need to be there.

“We gave him an example, most especially the Nigerian Bar Association, ASUU. ASUU have their own microfinance bank running their own affairs without students on their board. So I don’t think it’s wise for us to allow them to be inside our own board because it is purely students.

“We are the major stakeholders of that bank. So I don’t think allowing them to be there is good. Not only them, but we also mentioned a lot of people that they should remove and put more of student-oriented organisation.”

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has urged Local Government Council Chairmen to check the activities of revenue collectors to reduce the burden of fuel subsidy removal on the people.

Oborevwori made the call when the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria ALGON, Delta State Chapter led by Hon. Victor Ebonka, paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba on Wednesday.

He said that people were facing serious hardship following removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government and cautioned Council chairmen against multiple taxation and avoid taxing the people more at this critical time.

Oborevwori said; “funding remains a challenge in our local government councils. It is our hope that with the removal of the fuel subsidy, more monies will be accrued to the local governments and states.

“But until such happens, we urge you to be very prudent and creative in the management of your resources. Even though taxes are pertinent sources of council’s revenue, I want to assure you that the conflicting issues and laws will be handled.

“With the hardship we are facing now with this subsidy removal, I want to appeal to you to talk to your people, your agents and tax collectors not to impose unnecessary taxes on our people.

“There are a lot of expections from our people and at this time, we need to manage them, see how much we are buying fuel now. We are looking for how we can provide palliative for our people.”

He tasked the Councils to take seriously the issues of environmental sanitation and sustainability, adding that “operation keep Delta State clean is a collective responsibility of all.

“In the remaining months of your tenures, one issue I want you to treat with urgency, is sanitation. Last week, I went through the Warri/Effurun area, I called on the Chairmen of Warri and Uwvie Local Government Areas, and discussed with them.

“Every month you do your sanitation and there are provisions to do that; you must keep your environment clean. It is very important to educate our people on the benefits of keeping our environment clean,” he said.

He said local governments play important roles in the development of the grassroot and urged Council Chairmen to ensure proper management of their resources for the good of the people.

“As the third tier of government, the local government plays a very significant role in our democratic setting and political evolution; being the arm of government that is closest to the grassroot.

“I note with delight that the local government administration in the state has been characterised by peace and stability, in addition to strong synergy with the state government”.

The Governor further remarked that his administration would collaborate with local government councils to pay the backlog of pensions owed local government retirees and retired primary school teachers.

“Unlike some states, our local government councils have full control of their finances. In fact, the previous administration regularly assisted with grants, as a result of which we have continued to see steady progress in developing our rural areas.

“We may not have been where we want to be but I am proud of the progress we have made. This administration will sustain the precedent that has been laid by my predecessor.

“We shall not interfere with your finances and we will offer assistance where necessary. In this regard, we shall be collaborating with the Local Government Pension Bureau, to see how the lingering pension issues will be resolved.

“We met last week to discuss the issue but with a caveat that it is necessary to have an Auditor to audit the pension board and see how the process is carried out diligently so that we can know the actual persons who are due for such monies. We don’t want pension funds to be manipulated,” Oborevwori stated.

Earlier, Hon. Ebonka said they were at Government House to formally congratulate Governor Oborevwori on his emergence as Governor and to formally pledge their loyalty to his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda.

He commended the Governor for his leadership style which brought peace and stability to the legislature, adding that throughout your tenure as Speaker, “no local government council chairman was summoned to the State Assembly rather you set up machinery in place to ensure prompt resolution of disputes.”

He appealed to the Governor to look into conflicting laws regarding building permits, sanitation and waste management even as he lauded the Governor for assisting them to work out modalities to defray pension liabilities owed local government pensioners and retired primary school teachers.