The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, on Thursday, reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to unity, institutional continuity, and inclusive governance as the 8th Assembly hosted non-sitting Members of the State House of Assembly in Asaba.
The event, which brought together former Presiding Officers and past legislators from the First to Seventh Assemblies, was described as a landmark reunion aimed at fostering mentorship, preserving institutional memory, and deepening legislative harmony.
In his keynote address, Speaker Guwor said the meeting symbolized a bridge between the past and the present, adding that it was organized to strengthen the foundations of legislative governance in Delta State.
“Today, we are not just holding an event; we are connecting the past with the present and laying stronger foundations for the future of legislative governance in our dear State,” Guwor stated.
He acknowledged the contributions of successive Assemblies since 1992 to the democratic evolution of the state, noting that each had faced unique challenges but remained steadfast in upholding the principles of democracy, representation, and service to the people.
The Speaker paid glowing tribute to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State and immediate past Speaker of the House, describing him as “a man who embodies legislative continuity and the finest traditions of democratic leadership.”
Speaking on the theme of the gathering, “Building Harmonious Consensus in the Face of Diverse, Complex, and Competing Interests in the Legislature for Inclusive Governance,” Guwor emphasized that unity in diversity was the essence of democracy.
“In a House made up of people from diverse backgrounds and convictions, harmony does not happen by accident. It is built through dialogue, respect, tolerance, and a shared commitment to the greater good,” he said.
He urged legislators, both past and present, to see differences as strengths and to always put the people’s interest above personal or partisan considerations.
On the sub-theme, “Managing the Banana Peels and Booby Traps in the Legislature,” the Speaker described the legislature as a dynamic environment where integrity, prudence, and mentorship must guide conduct.
“Every legislature faces internal and external challenges. But it is through wisdom and adherence to due process that we preserve the dignity of this institution,” Guwor noted.
He called for sustained partnership between the legislative and executive arms in advancing the M.O.R.E. Agenda of Governor Oborevwori, stressing that “the legislature must be firm in oversight, fair in judgment, and focused on results that improve lives.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, said the gathering was conceived to celebrate the collective history of the Delta legislature and to provide a platform for engagement between serving and former lawmakers.
He commended Speaker Guwor for his vision and commitment to strengthening the institution, describing the event as “a family reunion that transcends politics.”
“This forum allows us to reconnect with our roots, appreciate our shared journey, and tap from the wisdom of those who have laid the foundation of what we proudly uphold today,” Akpowowo stated.
He expressed optimism that the interactions and reflections shared at the event would contribute meaningfully to legislative efficiency and democratic growth in the state.
In his remarks, Hon. Akpodiogaga Emeyese, Chairman, Forum of Non-Sitting Members, lauded the 8th Assembly for the initiative, describing it as unprecedented in the history of the House.
“What you have done today is to bring honour to those who have served and to remind us all that public service is a continuum,” Emeyese said.
He encouraged the current Assembly to remain united, uphold integrity, and protect the image of the institution through responsible lawmaking and constructive engagement.
Delivering goodwill remarks, the pioneer Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Okoro, commended the 8th Assembly for reviving the spirit of camaraderie among lawmakers across generations.
He said the gathering underscored the maturity and progress of the Delta legislature over the years, noting that the House had grown in stature, independence and institutional continuity.
In an interview, some former lawmakers including Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Rt Hon. Frank Enekerogha, Rt. Hon. Solomon Funkekeme, Prince Johnson Erijo, Anthony Elekeokwuri, Orezi Esievo all commended the Speaker of the 8th Assembly for the finding worthy to bring all past and present lawmakers of the Delta State House of Assembly to chart a new Course.
