Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday reaffirmed the strategic importance of traditional institutions in governance as he presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state.
The presentation ceremony, held at the Government House, Asaba, featured the handover of 60 Toyota Prado SUVs and five Land Cruiser vehicles to royal fathers, aimed at enhancing their mobility and effectiveness, particularly in rural and riverine communities.
Describing the event as both significant and symbolic, Governor Oborevwori said traditional rulers occupy a unique and indispensable position in the governance structure, serving as vital links between government and the grassroots.
According to him, beyond being custodians of culture and tradition, monarchs play critical roles in community mobilisation, dispute resolution, peace-building, and the promotion of government policies.
“Traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State through their unwavering commitment to peace, stability and development,” the Governor stated, commending their voluntary support for government initiatives and security efforts.
He explained that the choice of rugged SUVs was intentional, noting that the vehicles were designed to withstand the challenging terrains many royal fathers traverse in the course of their duties.
“These vehicles are not luxury items; they are tools of service meant to support our traditional rulers in the discharge of their responsibilities,” Oborevwori said.
The Governor linked the gesture to his administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly its focus on inclusive governance and equitable distribution of opportunities, stressing that no segment of the population had been left out of his government’s development programmes.
He highlighted ongoing social intervention initiatives, including support for vulnerable persons under the DCARES programme, grants for petty traders and artisans, empowerment programmes for women and youths, monthly stipends for widows, as well as improved workers’ welfare, pension payments, scholarships and bursaries.
Speaking earlier, Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the presentation as a practical demonstration of the administration’s respect for traditional institutions and their role in sustaining peace and unity across the state.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, said the Oborevwori administration was driving development with empathy, foresight and a strong commitment to the wellbeing of Deltans.
In separate remarks, several traditional rulers, including 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 gratitude to the Governor, noting that the vehicles would significantly enhance their effectiveness in carrying out traditional responsibilities.
Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, in his vote of thanks, described the gesture as timely and symbolic, stressing that mobility is central to effective grassroots leadership.
“A vehicle is not just transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service,” he said, assuring the Governor of the continued support of traditional institutions in promoting peace and development across Delta State.
