In a recent development, the Delta State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilijie Okenmor, expressed his satisfaction with the fulfilment of Governor Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s promises.
The governor had assured that all twenty-five local government areas would be overseen by elected council personalities serving as chairmen and vice-chairmen. Chief Tilijie, speaking to journalists after the swearing-in ceremony of the local government council chairmen, conveyed his joy, likening the day to a momentous occasion in August.
Furthermore, Chief Tilijie highlighted the governor’s efforts to facilitate the smooth functioning of the council chairmen. He noted that the previous month’s allocation had already been disbursed, enabling the newly appointed chairmen to hit the ground running.
Chief Tilijie also expressed his delight regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. He stated that Delta State had already implemented local government autonomy during the previous administration.
Offering advice to the newly sworn-in local government chairmen, the finance commissioner emphasized the importance of prioritizing projects that would yield tangible benefits for the people. He urged them to focus on initiatives that would contribute to the expansion and realization of the MORE Agenda throughout every corner of Delta State.
When questioned about the financial independence of the local government councils and whether they would have sufficient funds to operate without state support, Chief Tilijie acknowledged that the major financial challenge faced by the local government was the substantial pension arrears. He revealed that upon assuming office, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori inherited a significant debt of approximately N56 billion in pension arrears within the local government confines. However, he assured that the governor had already paid off N40 billion of this debt, thereby alleviating the financial burden on the local government areas.
Additionally, Chief Tilijie mentioned that federal allocations had gradually increased and expressed confidence in their effective utilization for the overall development of the state. He stressed the need to prioritize projects that would contribute to the welfare and progress of the people.
Regarding allegations of electoral rigging made by other political parties, accusing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of securing all the seats in the 25 local government areas, Chief Tilijie responded by highlighting the absence of other political parties during the campaign period. He noted that while the PDP actively campaigned throughout Delta State, other parties were noticeably absent and, in some cases, did not even field candidates for the elections.
