Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, describing the royal fathers as indispensable partners in governance and grassroots development.
The presentation, which took place at Government House, Asaba, involved the handover of 60 Toyota Prado SUVs and five Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles to the monarchs to enhance their mobility and effectiveness.
Gov. Oborevwori described the event as “a very important and symbolic day in the life of this administration,” noting that the beneficiaries represent a unique class of leaders whose contributions to governance are critical, though often understated.
Drawing from his grassroots political experience, the Governor said traditional rulers go beyond being custodians of culture and tradition.
“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” he said.
While reaffirming his administration’s irrevocable commitment to building a strong and inclusive economy anchored on equity and justice, Oborevwori commended the traditional rulers for their consistent support and cooperation.
“I can confidently state that traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State. I commend their unwavering commitment to peace, progress and prosperity,” he stated.
According to the Governor, royal fathers play frontline roles in mobilising communities, promoting government programmes, resolving disputes and supporting security agencies, often without expectation of reward.
“Our royal fathers are constantly on the road; responding to government directives, mediating communal disputes, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution. They do all these voluntarily and willingly, and for this, we are truly grateful,” he added.
Oborevwori explained that the choice of rugged SUVs was deliberate, given the difficult terrains many traditional rulers operate in.
“These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service. What is required is strength, durability and functionality, and that is what these vehicles provide,” he said.
He linked the gesture to his administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly the pillar of Opportunities for All, highlighting several social intervention programmes already implemented.
These include financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons under the D-CARES Programme, grants to petty traders and artisans, empowerment initiatives for women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state.
The Governor also cited achievements in workers’ welfare, pension payments, scholarships, bursaries and financial assistance for Delta indigenes in Nigerian Law Schools.
“From the foregoing, it is clear that every segment of our population has been touched. So, when we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness,” he said.
In a lighter moment, Oborevwori told the monarchs: “You have not stressed me. You have not made demands. Wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, culture and cooperation. This gesture today is from the heart.”
Earlier, Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, said the presentation of the vehicles was a clear demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions, adding that the gesture was in appreciation of their vital role in ensuring peace, unity and stability across the state.
In his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, outlined key developmental strides of the administration across various sectors, noting that Delta State was being governed with empathy, foresight and a deep commitment to the collective welfare of its people.
Speaking separately, 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 profound appreciation to the Governor, saying the vehicles would significantly enhance their efficiency in the discharge of their traditional responsibilities.
In a 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 of the 65 SUVs as a timely and deeply symbolic intervention that strengthens grassroots governance and peace-building across the state.
He noted that mobility is central to the effective discharge of traditional rulers’ responsibilities, stressing that “a vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service.”
The council chairman assured the Governor of the continued support of traditional institutions, describing royal fathers as custodians of culture and natural partners of government at the grassroots.
