Mr. Oke Umurhohwo who hails from Ughelli, Ughelli North local government area of Delta state is the Marketing Manager of the Itel Mobile for West Africa 1. He is also a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who recently contested in the party’s primary election to represent the Ughelli North Constituency ll at the Delta State House of Assembly during the 2023 general elections.
In this interview with our Correspondent, Mr. Oke Umurhohwo, who is also the President and Founder of Ughelli Rovers Football Club spoke extensively on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s One year in Office and other salient issues
Excerpt:
A few days from today Governor Sheriff Oborevwori will be celebrating his one year in office, what is your assessment?
The Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Elder Sheriff Oborevwori administration has completed a lot of projects across the three senatorial districts of the state, that are ready for commissioning to mark his first anniversary in office and that is commendable.
Some of them l could mention are; the Edo Road in Ughelli; Emevor-Orogun Road in Isoko North, the bridge across the Obo River at Ogwashi-Uku in sector C 1 of the Ughelli-Asaba Road dualisation, the 5.3km Okpanam-Ibusa by-pass road in Oshimili North local government area of the state.
Others are the 4.4km Emevor-Orogun, Enwhe Road phase ll in Isoko South and the governor has also ensured that the executed projects are carried out in all the local government areas of the state that will positively impact the socio-economic lives of the people
You can see that with the presence of big contractors such as Julius Berger, Levant and CCECC, the Oborevwori’s administration is ready and prepared to change the face of Delta state, and if in his first year, such known construction companies have been engaged by the state government for serious job, then it is obvious he means well for the state.
You should also understand that the flyover bridges being constructed by the state government in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun are mainly on federal roads. However, due to Oborevwori’s magnanimity, he does not question whether it is a federal road or not, as long as the road is being built in Delta State for the use of Deltans and other residents of the state, as well as those travelling to and from outside the state.
A lot of people are of the view that Oborevwori’s govt is slow to developmental projects, do you subscribe to it?
How could anyone say his government is slow to developmental projects? You saw some of the projects l have mentioned, some ongoing, while some are completed and ready for commissioning as part of his ceremony to mark his one year in office.
We must remember this is his inaugural year in office. Continuously criticizing the government’s pace of progress is unjustified. To label a government as slow in executing developmental initiatives within just a year is insincere.
The Oborevwori administration has begun well, marking the first instance in over twenty years since Delta state was created where the state government has enlisted a company like Julius Berger for road construction. This initiative is praiseworthy, and we should acknowledge the governor for this courageous decision.
It is too early to judge or assess the state government’s progress in developing the state after just one year in office. We are aware that the governor has initiated several development projects since taking office, and many of these projects are scheduled to be completed and commissioned by the end of this month to mark his first year in office. I must say Oborevwori’s one year in office is a testament to his transformational agenda.
There is this perception that the development in the state is not commensurate with federal allocation coming to the state, what is your take?
This is incorrect. It is important to mention that the federal allocations received by the state government encompass various sectors. In addition to funding development projects, these allocations also cover the salaries of local and state government employees. The state government utilizes these funds to address a wide range of issues across the twenty-five local government areas, including implementing state programs.
Saying that the federal allocations received by the state do not match the development is an unfair assessment. The state government is actively working to improve the state as a whole.
As a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in what area would you say Governor Oborevwori has done well?
I have closely observed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration over the past year. I can confidently say that he has made significant strides in several areas, particularly in education and infrastructure development. His administration’s commitment to improving the quality of education is evident through the renovation and construction of schools, the provision of learning materials, and the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing the educational system. Additionally, the infrastructural projects initiated and completed under his leadership, such as road construction and urban renewal programs, have positively impacted the state’s economic landscape and improved the quality of life for many residents.
One thing that caught my interest was reading in the paper that the Delta state government is partnering with Julius Berger to construct our roads. I was pleased to think that the quality roads seen in other states will now be seen in Delta. I believe that the twin cities of Warri and Uvwie will transform.
Also, I am aware that the state governor instructed the Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas to engage with oil companies that previously left Warri. This initiative is commendable and a welcome development. If followed, the glory of the twin cities will be restored.
There is a perception that Delta Central has not received its fair share of appointments despite producing the governor. What are your thoughts?
I do not think this is accurate. There is no part of Delta Central from the Eight local government that the Oborevwori’s administration has not appointed people from, even to the ward level.
We must remember that government functions as a process. Not everyone can be appointed to this government all at once; it is a gradual progression, one step at a time.
People like us spent money to contest the primary elections for the House of Assembly, till this moment have not been appointed, not even our supporters who ensure the governor wins have been given any appointment, yet we are still there in the party to support this government so it can succeed.
How would you describe the crops of commissioners in Oborevwori’s cabinet, do you see them delivering the mandate of the governor?
Firstly, I would like to express my appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his selection of commissioners to serve in his cabinet. The long-standing concern that youths have not been adequately represented in previous administrations was finally addressed in Oborevwori’s administration.
The Governor’s cabinet comprises a diverse and dynamic crop of commissioners who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective portfolios. These individuals were carefully selected to drive the governor’s vision and implement the M.O.R.E Agenda, policies and programs that align with the administration’s goals for Delta State.
The commissioners have shown a commendable level of dedication and commitment to their duties. Their efforts in various sectors have already started to yield positive results.
Moreover, the collaborative spirit among the commissioners is quite evident. They have demonstrated an ability to work cohesively, which is important for the seamless execution of government policies. This synergy ensures that the administration’s objectives are met in a timely and efficient manner, fostering an environment of progress and development across the state.
However, it is important to maintain a continuous focus on accountability and transparency. Ensuring that these commissioners remain proactive in addressing the needs of the people and staying aligned with the administration’s vision is vital. Regular performance reviews can help keep them on track and responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities within the state.
You contested the primaries in the 2023 general elections and rumours are circulating that your supporters are urging you to run again in the 2027 general elections. Is this true?
I contested in the 2023 primaries of my party, PDP, to represent Ughelli North Constituency II at the Delta State House of Assembly. The outcome was not as expected, but I am grateful to God Almighty. It was my first attempt, and I never imagined I could garner such support. This experience has shown me that with greater effort, God may work miracles.
However, I have been diligently fulfilling my duties as a party member to not only support my party but also to assist the incumbent governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, in achieving success.
The rumours circulating that my supporters are urging me to run again for the House of Assembly position have not reached me yet, so I will refrain from commenting. However, it is common for supporters to have confidence in you and expect fair representation if you are in the House. If they ask me, who am I to refuse? I also want to express my gratitude to all my supporters for their unwavering support before, during, and after the election.
A lot of people are of the view that your teaming supporters base is increasing even though you are not in office, how true is this?
It’s humbling to hear that my support base is perceived to be growing, even though I’m not currently in office. I believe this reflects the trust and confidence people have in my commitment to our community, LGA, State and its development.
One significant factor might be my involvement in founding the Ughelli Rovers Football Club, Delta State’s premium team that is competing in the NLO. This initiative has brought Ughelli together, fostering unity and providing a positive outlet for our youth.
Additionally, my activities through the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation may have played an important role. We have had initiatives like the “Bloom Project” for Widows and Single Mothers, offering food items and financial literacy sessions, empowering these women and providing them with the tools to improve their lives. Furthermore, our efforts in the education sector, such as donating thousands of exercise books, school bags, reading guides, school uniforms, and stationeries may have made a substantial impact.
My approach has always been to remain actively engaged with my constituents and address the concerns I can attend to, regardless of my official status. Whether through community projects, social initiatives, or simply being present and available, I strive to make a positive impact in any way I can.
The growing support can also be attributed to the values and principles I stand for. People resonate with leaders who are transparent, accountable, and genuinely invested in their welfare. I have always prioritized these qualities in my interactions and endeavours.
Moreover, my involvement in various initiatives and constant communication with my supporters have helped maintain a strong connection. I regularly seek their input and feedback. This continuous engagement fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, which is important for any leader. I remain committed to working tirelessly for the betterment of our people and ensuring that our collective aspirations are realized.
A word of advice to Ughelli North people as the local government election is around the corner
As the local government election approaches, I would like to appeal to all Ughelli North residents to continue supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). As we all know, Delta State is synonymous with the PDP, and the PDP is integral to Delta State’s identity.
Make sure you participate in the election process by casting your vote. Avoid any form of violence or unrest. Encourage others to maintain a respectful and calm atmosphere throughout the election period. Peaceful elections are vital for our community’s stability and growth.
I strongly endorse Olorogun Jaro Egbo as Chairman of Ughelli North and encourage everyone to do so. I am extremely confident in his ability to deliver and make Ughelli North better. His commitment to progressive leadership offers a comprehensive vision encompassing security, environmental sustainability, and educational advancement. I believe he will lead us towards a prosperous future.