Delta at 34: Anniversary should be time for reflection, not celebration – Activist to Gov Oborevwori
A human rights activist, Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, has cautioned Governor Sheriff Oborevwori against turning the 34th anniversary of Delta State into what he described as “lavish and unnecessary celebrations.”
In an open letter to the governor, Agberen said the anniversary should instead serve as a moment of sober reflection on what he called the “subpar performance” of the state government and its negative impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
He urged the administration to focus on practical measures that would improve the welfare of Deltans.
The statement was sent to our correspondent in Warri.
He said, “Industrialization and manufacturing companies are the sole means of achieving a safe and prosperous state.
“They will facilitate food provision for impoverished families, thereby reducing crime rates and poverty levels, as hunger is a primary contributor to insecurity and other societal issues in the state.”
He said, “Deltans have been very unfortunate to have had a government in the state for the past thirty-four years that has been principally driven by the vision of self-enrichment and the near-total neglect of the vast majority of Deltans. The indicators of bad governance in Delta State are staring us all in the face.”
According to him, “From the embarrassingly weak healthcare system to the horrible level of opportunities for youths to thrive despite our God-given resources.
“There is no industrialization, and the roads and poor skill acquisition programs initiated by past and present governments are insufficient.
“There are no opportunities for foreign investors to exploit and improve our local economy, especially ones that would boost agriculture and other economic activities.
“There is no better way to demonstrate concern for the future of Delta State than to underscore the dire circumstances faced by the majority of its indigenous population.
“Delta State is experiencing severe difficulties, and the current level of infrastructural development is insufficient to support the people or the economy.”
Agberen congratulated the state on its 34th anniversary celebration.
“Deltans, as we hope for progress and transformation within the state, while keeping our fingers crossed as watchdogs, constantly rejecting every government antic that keeps us underdeveloped and impoverished.”
