In a landmark gesture emphasising the critical role of traditional institutions in governance, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Wednesday handed over 65 brand-new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state.
The ceremony, held at Government House, Asaba, highlighted the Governor’s commitment to strengthening grassroots governance and promoting peace and stability.
The fleet comprised 60 Toyota Prados and five Land Cruisers, which the Governor described as “tools of service” to support royal fathers in carrying out their responsibilities.
Oborevwori stressed that traditional rulers are far more than custodians of culture. Drawing from his grassroots political experience, he said, “They are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots.
”Their contributions to governance are critical but often understated.”
The governor praised the monarchs for their voluntary service in mobilizing communities, resolving disputes, supporting security agencies, and promoting government programmes.
“Our royal fathers are often on the road, mediating communal conflicts and implementing peace-building initiatives.
”These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service designed for strength, durability, and functionality,” he said.
Linking the gesture to his administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly its pillar of Opportunities for All, Oborevwori highlighted the government’s social intervention programmes, including financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons under the DCARES programme, grants for petty traders and artisans, empowerment of women and youth, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state.
He also noted achievements in workers’ welfare, pension payments, scholarships, and financial assistance for Delta indigenes in Nigerian Law Schools.
“Every segment of our population has been touched. Today, we focus on our traditional rulers not out of favoritism but fairness,” the governor added.
He praised the monarchs for their cooperation, saying, “You have not stressed me with demands; wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, culture, and support. This gesture comes from the heart.”
Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme described the SUV presentation as a clear demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions.
“This is in recognition of the vital role they play in ensuring peace, unity, and stability across the state,” he said.
In their remarks, several royal fathers, including the Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor (JP), the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abel, and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), expressed profound gratitude, noting that the vehicles would enhance their ability to serve their communities efficiently.
Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, described the gesture as timely and symbolic, reinforcing grassroots governance and peace-building.
“Mobility is central to the effective discharge of traditional responsibilities.
”For a traditional ruler, a vehicle is more than transportation; it is a symbol of authority and service,” he said, assuring the Governor of the council’s unwavering support.
