Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday reinforced his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development with the presentation of 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, describing the monarchs as indispensable partners in governance and peace-building.
The presentation ceremony, held at Government House, Asaba, saw the governor hand over 60 Toyota Prado SUVs and five Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs to royal fathers, a move aimed at enhancing their mobility and effectiveness, particularly in rural and riverine communities.
Governor Oborevwori said the initiative was a deliberate recognition of the critical role traditional rulers play in maintaining peace, promoting government policies, resolving conflicts, and serving as a bridge between government and the people at the grassroots.
Speaking at the event, the governor described the day as both symbolic and significant for his administration, noting that traditional rulers belong to a unique class of leaders whose contributions to governance often go unnoticed but remain invaluable.
Drawing from his background as a grassroots politician, Oborevwori stressed that royal fathers are more than custodians of culture and tradition, saying they are key intermediaries who help translate government policies into meaningful impact at the community level.
“They are not just custodians of our customs and traditions; they are partners in governance who help sustain peace, unity, and development in their various domains,” the governor said.
He praised the monarchs for their consistent support, noting that their cooperation has made governance in Delta State smoother and more effective.
“I can confidently say that traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State. I commend them for their unwavering commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori further explained that the royal fathers often work behind the scenes, mobilising communities, mediating disputes, supporting security agencies, and promoting government programmes, largely without expecting any form of reward.
“Our royal fathers are constantly on the move—responding to security issues, settling disputes, engaging in peace-building, and working closely with government agencies. They do all these voluntarily, and we truly appreciate their sacrifices,” he said.
He explained that the choice of rugged SUVs was intentional, considering the difficult terrains many traditional rulers operate in across the state.
“These vehicles are not luxuries. They are tools of service. What matters is durability, strength, and functionality, and that is exactly what these vehicles represent,” Oborevwori stated.
Linking the gesture to his administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly its focus on Opportunities for All, the governor highlighted several social intervention programmes already implemented by his government.
According to him, over 307,600 vulnerable persons have benefited from financial support under the DCARES Programme, alongside grants for petty traders and artisans, empowerment initiatives for women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state.
He also listed achievements in workers’ welfare, regular pension payments, scholarships, bursaries, and financial assistance for Delta indigenes attending Nigerian Law Schools.
“From all these interventions, it is clear that every segment of our society has been touched. So, when we turn our attention to our traditional rulers today, it is not about favouritism, but fairness,” the governor said.
Addressing the monarchs directly, Oborevwori said the gesture was a heartfelt one, borne out of mutual respect and cooperation.
“You have not stressed me. You have not made demands. Wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, respect, and cooperation. This gesture is from the heart,” he said.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the presentation of the vehicles as a practical demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions, noting that royal fathers remain central to peace, unity, and stability across Delta State.
In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, outlined the administration’s achievements across key sectors, saying Delta State was being governed with empathy, foresight, and a strong commitment to the collective welfare of its people.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor (JP); the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe I; and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), expressed deep appreciation to the governor, saying the vehicles would significantly enhance their ability to carry out their traditional and administrative responsibilities.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, described the presentation as timely and deeply symbolic.
He noted that mobility is critical to the effective discharge of traditional rulers’ duties, stressing that a vehicle represents both authority and service at the grassroots.
The council chairman assured Governor Oborevwori of the continued loyalty and support of the traditional institution, describing royal fathers as custodians of culture and dependable partners in the pursuit of peace and development across Delta State.
