Delta APC criticizes Oborevwori's administration over neglect for Delta Ijaw Communities

The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta State condemns in strong terms the continued neglect of key infrastructural projects that are vital for the development of the Delta Ijaw communities under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The APC in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo Esq expressed its support for the agitations by the Ijaw Youth Council. 

"It is unacceptable that in this day and age, our communities are left to grapple with such infrastructural deficits while the State Government remains indifferent to their plight."

Delta APC feels alarmed by the administration's continued failure to pay attention to critical infrastructural projects that are vital to the sustainable development of our riverine communities. 

According to the APC, "Despite the purported establishment of the Directorate of Riverine Development, it is becoming increasingly evident that the Ijaw communities, which have long contributed to the socio-economic fabric of the State, are being systematically sidelined in the execution of key infrastructure projects by Sheriff Oborevwori's administration."

The APC said key projects such as the Ayakoromo Bridge, Burutu Marine Polytechnic, and critical road projects in Ogulagha/Odimodi, Ohoroh/Bomadi, Torugbene/Ojobo, and Erhowa/Abari remain abandoned despite repeated calls for action. 

"It is reprehensible that Governor Oborevwori’s administration has ignored these projects, which are critical to addressing the economic and social needs of the Delta Ijaw people.

"The Ayakoromo Bridge, for example, has been a long-awaited lifeline that would enhance connectivity, trade, and security within the region. The lack of attention to the completion of this essential infrastructure project is not only a gross failure of governance but also a glaring disregard for the welfare of the people who rely on it, leaving residents and businesses disconnected and struggling to thrive. This is not only a disappointment but a disservice to the people of Delta Ijaw.

"Similarly, the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu is a vital educational institution that could play a major role in the development of human capital in the Delta Ijaw region. 

"However, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has failed to prioritize its completion and operationalization, further exacerbating the prospects for youth empowerment and local development. 

The failure of the Oborevwori's administration to upgrade the Isena-Ibe Teachers Training College, Bomadi to either a polytechnic or university, is a stark reminder of the administration's disregard for education and skill acquisition in riverine areas.

"Regrettably, the deplorable conditions of the roads in Ogulagha/Odimodi, Ohoroh/Bomadi, Torugbene/Ojobo, and Erhowa/Abari are a testament to the administration’s negligence. These roads are not only essential for the economic survival of these communities but also for the safety and well-being of the people."

The APC said, "The continued delay in addressing these projects is a direct failure to meet the basic needs of the Deltans who entrusted their votes to this administration. The  state of these roads not only hampers movement but stifles economic growth and development in these communities."

The APC urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to immediately prioritize the completion and funding of these critical projects. 

It said, "Delta Ijaw communities deserve better than the broken promises and abandoned plans that have been the hallmark of this administration. 

"It is time for Governor Oborevwori to stop paying lip service to the development of riverine communities and take meaningful action to improve the lives of its people, particularly ensuring that the Directorate of Riverine Development is not just a token gesture created for the purpose of settling loyalists with appointments but a catalyst for sustainable development in our riverine areas.

"Delta APC stands firmly with the Ijaw Youth Council and other stakeholders in our riverine communities in their call for Sheriff Oborevwori's administration to deliver on its promises and provide the infrastructure that will drive real development in the state. It is time for action, not cheap political rhetoric. Delta Ijaw and other riverine communities deserve better."