Every reasonable student or practitioner of politics should understand that in most democratic systems across the world, the principle of right of first refusal is a widely respected tradition, especially for incumbent presidents or governors who have performed creditably in office. It reflects a political party’s strategic decision to prioritize continuity over disruption, unity over fragmentation, and performance over politicking.
For Delta State and the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Sheriff Oborevwori exemplifies all the reasons this principle exists.
As the sitting governor, Oborevwori has not only earned this right through the sheer weight of his performance but also stands as a stabilizing force in a party celebrated for its broad ethnic and religious diversity. Sparing the APC the turbulence of a divisive primary would preserve party cohesion and reinforce democratic maturity. More importantly, it would send a clear message that loyalty, hard work, and results still matter in Nigerian politics.
A Leader with Grassroots Loyalty
Governor Oborevwori’s growing endorsements from across Delta State speak volumes. From party members and traditional rulers to Non-Indigenes, market women, civil servants, and students, the resonance of his leadership cuts across all demographics. Yet, he has resisted the temptation to weaponize these endorsements. His humility and quiet confidence reflect a deep commitment to service rather than self-promotion, a rare quality in Nigeria’s often noisy and ambition-driven political space.
While the APC remains open to internal competition, the groundswell of support for Oborevwori goes beyond mere political calculation, it is a validation of impact. Party leaders understand that in Oborevwori, they have a candidate whose popularity is organic, rooted in both substance and style, and whose second term would not only be easier to secure but also more productive.
The MORE Agenda: Tangible Impact, Real Results
At the heart of Oborevwori’s success lies his administration’s MORE Agenda: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. These are not just lofty slogans; they are actionable pillars that are already redefining governance in Delta State.
Infrastructure Transformation
From inherited to newly initiated projects, Governor Oborevwori has overseen a visible transformation of Delta’s physical landscape. Over 513 road projects spanning nearly 1,500 kilometers have been executed. Signature developments like the Trans-Warri Road, Ughelli–Asaba dual carriageway, the long neglected Oko-Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu road in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State is currently undergoing construction, flyovers at PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, and Enerhen have significantly improved the state’s connectivity and aesthetics.
Urban renewal in Warri, Effurun, and Asaba is reshaping these cities, while landmark projects such as the State High Court Complex and 50 new housing units reflect a commitment to functional, people-centered infrastructure.
Human Capital Development
Equally impressive is the administration’s investment in people. Public schools have been upgraded with modern classrooms, science laboratories, and ICT facilities. Technical colleges are being revamped to equip youths for today’s job market. Over 60,000 students have benefited from bursaries totaling more than ₦1 billion.
In healthcare, the state is witnessing a quiet revolution. Rehabilitated primary healthcare centers and cutting-edge diagnostic equipment—including 4D ultrasound scanners, dialysis machines, and CT scan units, are making quality care more accessible. The Delta-CARES initiative has impacted over 250,000 citizens, while the MORE Biz-Up scheme is energizing MSMEs across the state.
The recruitment of lecturers and consistent support for tertiary institutions, including salary reviews and infrastructure upgrades, further underscore the administration’s emphasis on education, empowerment, and long-term job creation.
A Governor Who Delivers, A People Who Endorse
What makes Governor Oborevwori’s leadership compelling is not just the progress achieved but the broad public trust he now enjoys. Early skepticism and partisan criticism have given way to widespread praise, even from former critics, who now acknowledge his consistency and substance.
Media organizations, civic groups, and political stakeholders across the spectrum have openly commended his performance. His introduction of periodic performance reviews for MDAs has strengthened transparency and accountability, further bolstering public confidence.
Conclusion: A Mandate Worth Renewing
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has proven to be more than a sitting governor, he is a transformational leader. His achievements under the MORE Agenda are not only visible but also deeply felt across all sectors of Delta State.
His calm temperament, strategic foresight, and people-centered governance present a compelling case for the APC to grant him the right of first refusal for its 2027 governorship ticket.
In Oborevwori, Delta State has found continuity with progress, humility with results, and leadership with vision. As calls for his re-election grow louder, one thing is clear: the people of Delta are not just endorsing a man, they are reaffirming a mandate for a stronger, more prosperous future.
The extra-ordinary performance of Governor Oborevwori has gained so much currency across the State that it will be needless going through the tortuous route of primaries. Not because he can't easily win it at ease, but it will involve needless waste of resources and stress for the people.
ReplyDeleteOne of the primary reasons that mark him out for excellence is the needful attention he pays to quality of job done. . The day-to-day attention to details, emphasizing quality of every project being executed, marks him for setting up standards, which will be difficult to emulate. Surely no coach changes the composition of a winning team.
Having said that, it is impossible to rule out side kicks. Therefore, if anyone wants to prove how bright the sun is shining with a lit candle, such a person is free but such a fellow should be advised to look elsewhere and concentrate efforts where it will be meaningful and productive to the State and its people.
Frank Igwebueze