Iyovwaye Faults Urhobo Monarchs’ Endorsement of Oborevwori

A fresh political controversy is building in Delta State after NDC governorship candidate Deacon Chris Iyovwaye challenged the reported endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by some Urhobo monarchs, arguing that the concerns of ordinary Deltans should come before political endorsements.

Deacon Chris Iyovwaye has faulted the reported endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by some Urhobo traditional rulers, arguing that the decision does not adequately reflect the concerns of Deltans. The NDC governorship candidate called for greater attention to healthcare, education, security, agriculture and the cost of living, while urging the monarchs to reconsider their position.

ASABA — The reported endorsement of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by some Urhobo traditional rulers has triggered fresh criticism, with the governorship candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, questioning whether the decision reflects the concerns and aspirations of ordinary Deltans.

Iyovwaye, who spoke on Arise TV’s Morning Show, said the endorsement appeared premature and urged the traditional rulers to reconsider their position and pay greater attention to the views and welfare of the people.

He argued that traditional rulers, as custodians of culture and respected institutions of authority, do not participate directly in elections as voters.

According to him, the traditional institution should therefore be protected from actions that could create the impression that it has taken sides in a political contest that should ultimately be decided by the electorate.

Iyovwaye said he was particularly surprised that the endorsement could be made without what he described as adequate consultation with the people.

He questioned whether the monarchs had sufficiently “felt the pulse” of Deltans before taking such a position.

Iyovwaye Highlights Deltans’ Economic, Social Concerns

The NDC candidate said many residents of Delta State were facing serious challenges in healthcare, education, security and the rising cost of living.

He maintained that these issues should receive greater attention than political endorsements.

According to him, the quality of life of ordinary citizens should remain the primary measure of any government’s performance.

On healthcare, Iyovwaye raised concerns about the condition of some health facilities across the state. He alleged that shortages of doctors and other essential medical personnel were contributing to avoidable deaths.

He also criticised the condition of some public schools, arguing that pupils should not be forced to sit on bare floors while receiving lessons in the 21st century.

Security Threatens Agriculture, Food Production

Iyovwaye also expressed concern over the impact of insecurity on agriculture.

He said some farmers were finding it increasingly difficult to access their farms because of security challenges.

Consequently, he warned that the situation could affect food production and further increase the hardship faced by families across Delta State.

Iyovwaye Questions Focus on Flyovers

The NDC candidate also questioned the emphasis placed on infrastructure projects, particularly flyovers, as a measure of government performance.

He argued that governance should not be judged solely by visible construction projects but by how public resources are translated into better living conditions for citizens.

“We are talking about the performance of the resources on ground in the state,” Iyovwaye said.

He stressed that government must demonstrate how the state’s resources are being used to improve the lives of its people.

Iyovwaye Compares Delta With Abia

Drawing a comparison with Abia State, Iyovwaye argued that Delta could achieve more with its available resources.

He said Abia had fewer resources than Delta but had, in his view, demonstrated that determined leadership could produce tangible results in critical areas, including electricity.

For Iyovwaye, the comparison underscores the need for government to focus more on outcomes that directly affect citizens rather than relying mainly on physical infrastructure as evidence of performance.

Iyovwaye Urges Monarchs to Reconsider Endorsement

Iyovwaye therefore called on the traditional rulers to rethink the reported endorsement of Oborevwori.

He said their responsibility extends beyond political considerations to the protection of the interests, dignity and welfare of the people.

He maintained that the final decision on who governs Delta State belongs to the electorate.

The NDC candidate consequently urged political leaders and traditional institutions to listen to the concerns of Deltans and allow the people’s interests to remain at the centre of the political process.