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By Oscar Okhifo
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, stirred debate on Wednesday as he handed over 65 brand-new SUVs to traditional rulers across the state, describing them as key pillars of grassroots peace and governance.
The move, aimed at boosting community dispute resolution and local administration, drew both praise and criticism over its timing and cost amid economic challenges.
The ceremony at Government House, Asaba, saw the presentation of 60 Toyota Prado SUVs and five Toyota Land Cruisers to royal fathers from communities across Delta State.
Oborevwori described the vehicles as “tools of service,” aimed at helping traditional rulers maintain peace, resolve disputes, and support grassroots governance.
“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms, and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” the governor said, noting that monarchs have been crucial in community mobilization, conflict resolution, and collaboration with security agencies.
“Our Royal Fathers are often on the road, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution. They do all these voluntarily and willingly. For this, we are truly grateful.”
The gesture, however, sparked mixed reactions among residents. Some questioned the timing and cost, arguing that such high-value allocations to unelected leaders could be seen as elitist and suggesting the funds might have been better spent on community infrastructure or security.
Critics noted that the Governor ought to have focused on rural poverty instead of giving lavish gifts to those who already have enough, a practice some say mirrors similar policies popular in Northern Nigeria.
They argued that the Governor ought to have been more concerned about the screaming rural poverty in Delta State, stressing that the real voters deserve more.
Despite the debate, traditional rulers expressed gratitude for the donation.
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) described the SUVs as a major boost to their mobility and effectiveness in serving their communities.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, called the presentation a timely and symbolic intervention that would further strengthen grassroots governance and peace-building across Delta State.