Asaba – The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) has strongly criticised Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, accusing him of failing to deliver democratic dividends to the people despite an increase in the state’s revenues.
In a press statement signed by its National Coordinator, Prince Obaro Unuafe, and Secretary, Dr Clark Majebi, the group alleged that government spending under Oborevwori is hidden from the public and described the governor’s leadership style as “dictatorial” and “emperor-like.”
According to CGG, instead of improving lives, the rise in both federal allocations and internally generated revenue has become “a curse rather than a blessing” to Deltans.
“No more transparency in government spending. All government expenditures are shrouded in secrecy like a voodoo cult. The governor was voted to represent Deltans but currently operates like a Czar and an emperor,” the statement said.
The group further accused the governor of embarking on “fruitless foreign trips” in the name of attracting investors, while ordinary citizens continue to live in poverty and poor conditions.
“No serious investor will come to risk resources in an environment with insecurity and dilapidated infrastructure. The Internet has made the world a global village; a serious governor does not need road shows in China or Brazil to attract investors,” CGG added.
The organisation also condemned what it described as “wasteful jamboree trips” involving the governor and large numbers of aides, stressing that such actions amount to financial recklessness.
CGG compared the situation in Delta State to Nigeria’s oil boom years of the 1970s, when, according to the group, reckless spending on events like FESTAC ’77 and the controversial Udoji Award left the country with little to show for its wealth.
The statement also referenced a recent rumour about a heated disagreement between two Delta commissioners during an Executive Council meeting over alleged indiscriminate spending. CGG noted that no official has denied the report, suggesting that “silence means consent.”
The group questioned why the government should continue to sponsor “unprofitable events and festivals” while urgent infrastructure and development needs remain unmet.
As “stakeholders in the Delta State project,” CGG demanded greater accountability and transparency in the management of state finances.
“The governor was elected to serve Deltans, not to assume the position of a Czar or a bull in a Chinese shop,” the statement read.
The group expressed concern that many opposing voices in Delta State have been silenced by fear but vowed to continue offering “genuine and honest criticism.”
CGG finally called on Governor Oborevwori to:
- Provide regular briefings on the state’s financial status.
- Cut down on propaganda and frivolous spending.
- Focus on the effective management of human and financial resources for the benefit of the people.
