By Dennis Otu
In an outpouring of joy and relief, the people of Delta State have been celebrating since the Supreme Court delivered its verdict on Friday, January 19th, 2024, marking the end of a protracted legal saga that has gripped the state. The Apex Court’s decision to uphold the election of Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has been hailed as a victory not just for the Governor but for all Deltans.
Governor Oborevwori, whose tenure has been marred by legal challenges, faced an onslaught of 38 court cases contesting his election. However, he remained resolute and undistracted, continuing to focus on his duties as the elected leader of the oil-rich state. His unwavering commitment was rewarded when the highest court in the land affirmed his rightful position as the Governor of Delta State.
The Supreme Court’s ruling has been met with widespread approval from the people, who had chosen Oborevwori as their Governor. The streets were awash with excitement as residents celebrated the legal vindication of their leader, whose street credibility and popularity have never waned. The atmosphere was electric, with the air filled with chants and cheers, as the people rejoiced in the confirmation of their collective choice.
Governor Oborevwori’s victory is seen as a testament to the democratic process and the rule of law. It also marks a turning point for Delta State, which has been eagerly anticipating a period of stability and progress. The Governor, affectionately known as the ‘Empowerment Master,’ has been a driving force behind numerous development projects and empowerment initiatives that have begun to transform the state’s landscape.
Since taking office on May 29th, 2023, Governor Oborevwori has launched an ambitious agenda to propel Delta State to new heights of development and prosperity. The state has become a hive of construction activity, with projects aimed at improving infrastructure and public services. The Governor’s commitment to empowering the people has been evident in the numerous appointments and programs designed to uplift residents from various walks of life.
The Supreme Court’s verdict has not only cleared the path for the Governor to continue his work but has also reinforced the people’s confidence in their leader. It is a call to action for all Deltans to unite behind their Governor and support his vision for a state that stands as the envy of others across the nation.
Looking ahead, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has laid out plans for significant development projects, including major construction work by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun. These initiatives are expected to bring about a wave of economic growth and job creation, further enhancing the well-being of the people.
The Governor’s holistic approach to development means that every corner of Delta State is set to benefit from an array of projects, from infrastructure to social welfare. The transformation envisaged under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership is poised to leave a lasting impact on the state, reshaping it into a model of regional development.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel Asaba, the Governor who was joined by his wife, Deaconess Tobore, his Deputy Sir Monday Onyeme and wife, Catherine, immediate past Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and wife, Dame Edith, Governor Oborevwori stressed that God ordained him to be Governor and thanked Deltans for supporting his ambition.
According to him, “I came to this altar before I went to Abuja for this last judgment and I said God is not a man that he should lie. I have promised God that every time He gives me victory I must come here to thank Him.
“I have done it several times and I said I will also return the same day of the victory to thank God. For the Lord has redeemed me.
“This victory is not about me but about the people of Delta state. The immediate past governor said that somebody that would not recognise this altar will never be governor; God has honoured that word.
“This case made it 38 cases for me from pre-election matters to this one. Even the governors who have done eight years did not go through such number of cases.
The Governor who was earlier welcomed from Abuja by a mammoth crowd at the Asaba International Airport, said he was happy that the litigations were over, assuring that he would now concentrate in delivering on his MORE Agenda for the people.
“I was overwhelmed by the crowd and the show of love at the airport. I want to reassure Deltans that my Deputy Governor and I will continue to serve you.
“This victory is for our people to know that our God is faithful and He alone has delivered us.
In the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling, there is a renewed sense of purpose among Deltans. The Governor’s call for collaboration has resonated with the people, who are eager to contribute to the state’s journey toward a brighter future. The message is clear: the time for division is over, and the moment for collective effort has arrived.
As Delta State turns a new page, the Supreme Court victory is a reminder of the unity and resilience of its people. It is a celebration of democracy, a reaffirmation of the people’s will, and a rallying cry for all Deltans to work together in pursuit of common goals. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with a united front, the state is destined for greatness.
Delta State stands at the cusp of transformation, and the Supreme Court victory has set the stage for an era of unprecedented development and prosperity.
Now that the Apex Court has spoken by giving a clean bill of health to Governor Oborevwori all hands should be on deck to rally round a man who has passion for the people. We all won at the Supreme Court on Friday, January 19th, 2024 and so let us all work for the progress of Delta State because we do not have another state to call our own. We are one people and the Supreme Court Victory is for all of us.
-DENNIS OTU IS SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANT (MEDIA) TO THE DELTA STATE GOVERNOR
