The Chairman of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. DCN. Joseph Otirhue, has described the recent autonomy granted to local governments as a major relief for the state governments in an interview on Wednesday. According to him, the state used to chip in to help with local government responsibilities, but now they’ll be managing their affairs, they are now expected to be self-sufficient. He put it simply: “Every man to his tenth oh Israel!” In other words, time for everyone to step up!
When asked if we should expect even more development, Otirhue didn’t miss a beat, pointing to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s “MORE Agenda.” He explained that the governor is all about pushing for more growth and progress, and that local governments need to follow suit. “No excuses for them,” Otirhue said. “That’s why they were elected. Even during the previous administration, 80% of the local governments were active, and projects were being commissioned left and right. Now that they’re on their own, they better keep the momentum going.
Hon. Otirhue emphasized that significant progress has already been made, citing the commissioning of various projects across local governments. He also noted that current local government leaders have swung into action, with project commissioning expected soon. “Delta nor dey carry last,” he added, affirming the drive of local governments under their new autonomy.
Reflecting on Delta State’s development over its 33-year history, Hon. Otirhue praised the strides made under the leadership of Governor Oborevwori. He highlighted the massive infrastructural developments across the three senatorial districts. “If you visit Warri, particularly the PTI and Enerhen junctions, you will witness massive development within just two years,” he said, predicting even more progress in the coming years.
He further pointed out the governor’s achievements in sectors such as education and health, citing the employment of over 3,000 primary school teachers and the renovation of hospitals. “The governor has proved doubters wrong. Our duty as Deltans is to keep praying for him,” Hon. Otirhue said.
Addressing potential challenges within the Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Otirhue acknowledged that while challenges are inevitable, the ability to overcome them is what matters. “Challenges will come, but how we handle them is important. Currently, everything is moving well across the 25 local governments,” he said, expressing confidence in the commission’s ability to manage any issues that arise.
He also had big praise for the governor’s work with the DCARES program, which has already benefitted over 97,000 Deltans. Otirhue explained that if you crunch the numbers, the program has seen a 200% increase in impact in less than a year! “People were receiving alerts and starter packs on the spot. No stage management—this was the real deal,” he said.
With employment programs across all districts and more in the works, Otirhue emphasized that Deltans are smiling, happy, and grateful for the progress so far. “If you haven’t enrolled yet, go and do it! Your time is coming, and the governor has got you,” he concluded.
