Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, on Sunday assured that governance in the state will remain on track despite the build-up to the 2027 general elections, stating that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has put in place firm measures to prevent political activities from disrupting service delivery.
Aniagwu made this known while speaking on The Morning Show on Arise TV, where he explained that the directive requiring appointees seeking elective offices to resign is aimed at ensuring fairness, eliminating undue advantage, and keeping governance fully on course.
According to him, the governor has directed all political appointees intending to contest elective positions in 2027 to resign in line with provisions of the Electoral Act, noting that the law clearly stipulates timelines for public office holders seeking elective positions.
He explained that the directive is designed to ensure fairness and prevent undue advantage, stressing that allowing appointees to remain in office while contesting elections could lead to abuse of office, access to state resources, and structural advantages over other aspirants.
Aniagwu said, “The law is very clear. If you are holding an appointive position and intend to contest, you must step aside. It creates a level playing field and avoids a situation where someone uses the privileges of office to gain undue advantage over others.”
He further noted that beyond fairness, the directive would eliminate distractions in governance, as officials would be able to focus fully on their responsibilities without being divided between public service and political ambition.
“Contesting while in office can be a major distraction. Instead of concentrating on governance, such individuals may abandon their duties to pursue campaigns. That is why the law requires them to step down,” he added.
The commissioner also highlighted that Governor Oborevwori remains committed to governance regardless of political developments, pointing out that even during campaign periods, project execution and commissioning would continue unhindered.
“He has made it clear that even on days when campaigns are scheduled, he will first attend to governance by commissioning or inspecting projects before proceeding to political activities. Governance will not suffer in Delta on account of politics,” Aniagwu said.
He revealed that the state recently approved over N400 billion worth of capital projects, many of which are already being processed and awarded, with contractors receiving up to 40 percent mobilization to ensure timely execution.
Aniagwu added that several projects have been lined up for commissioning as the administration approaches its 3rd anniversary, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to development.
On internal party dynamics following the state’s political realignment, the commissioner said the governor has ensured inclusiveness and fairness among stakeholders, fostering unity and stability within the political structure.
He explained that the transparent conduct of ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses helped build confidence and maintain peace among party members.
Aniagwu maintained that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style, particularly his emphasis on prudent resource management and project delivery, has positioned Delta as one of Nigeria’s most stable and financially responsible states.
“Governor Oborevwori walks the talk. With the structures and processes already in place, governance will continue seamlessly, and Deltans will keep enjoying the dividends of democracy regardless of political activities,” he said.
