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GOVERNOR OBOREVWORI AND THE DECLINE OF URHOBO POLITICAL LEADERSHIP

Reflecting on the first year of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration, a concerning trend is emerging within Urhobo political leadership. Historically known for their robust and organized approach, Urhobo political leaders are now perceived as weak and increasingly disorganized. Even Governor Oborevwori, who occupies the highest office and should serve as a pivotal figure for Urhobo politicians, appears to fall short in fulfilling this role.

The current administration's officials from Delta Central show a notable reluctance to take the necessary risks to defend their region's interests. This lack of initiative and courage is troubling. Instead of prioritizing the collective well-being of Delta Central, many of the leaders seem more preoccupied with securing pecuniary benefits from the government, driven by greed and self-preservation. This inclination towards self-preservation is detrimental, fostering an environment where political maneuvering is geared towards survival and anticipation for the 2027 elections.

Within the Government House, there are signs of shifting dynamics and positioning. These maneuvers are believed to fuel the sycophantic behavior observed among Delta Central politicians. Governor Oborevwori's leadership style has, unfortunately, contributed to diminishing the prestige of his office. Instead of being a strong, independent leader, he is perceived as a surrogate to the former governor, which undermines his authority and the effectiveness of his administration.

Moreover, most Delta Central politicians in office have become more like cheerleaders than effective advocates, loudly praising his policies but failing to engage in meaningful actions or dialogue that could drive real progress. Their focus on flattery and praise-singing, regardless of the administration's evident shortcomings in service delivery over the past year, is particularly alarming. This behavior reflects a broader issue of loyalty being placed above competence and performance.

The first year of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration has highlighted significant challenges within Urhobo political leadership. The prioritization of self-preservation over regional interests, the lack of strong leadership from the governor, and the sycophantic tendencies of Delta Central politicians have collectively weakened the political structure. As these trends continue, there is an urgent need for a re-evaluation of leadership priorities and a renewed focus on genuine service delivery and accountability to restore the confidence and effectiveness of Urhobo political leadership.

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