Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has promised to channel to the federal government numerous complaints and appeal by coastal communities in the state for the dredging of the River Niger and address associated shoreline challenges in order to end perennial flooding in the riverside communities.
According to him, the responsibility fell on the federal government, which has the capacity and authority to dredge the River Niger as several other states would be impacted by the Niger dredging.
Oborevwori stated this during the presentation of Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Dr Gregory Nnamdi Oputa as Obi Oputa III, being the 20th Obi of AbohKingdom in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of the state.
He was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, who stressed that the state government was excited at the restoration of peace in the ancient coastal kingdom with prospects for accelerated socio-economic and
The ceremony took place at the Aboh Grammar School ground amid diverse cultural displays and attracted eminent personalities, including members of the national and state assemblies, senior government functionaries and a retinue of monarchs.
There were also representatives of other monarchs like the Oba of Benin, Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Asagba of Asaba, Olu of Warri, Onojie of Ujogba as well as those of Umuolu, Ibrede, Ashaka, Egbudu-Aka, Abala, Igbuku and Adonte.
The governor urged the people to rally behind their new king and work earnestly to make the reign of Obi Oputa III peaceful and remarkable such that its fame would resonate across the country and beyond as one of the most successful in the history of Aboh Kingdom.
Responding to several requests by the community, Oborevwori said, “The issue of dredging the River Niger is a long standing one; it will best be handled by the federal government as many states will be affected.”
He, however, said the state government would look into the issue of the local shoreline with a view to making them more functional and economically valuable.
The governor congratulated Oputa for successfully scaling the customary installation hurdle on his journey to sitting on the royal stool of his forebears as Obi of Aboh Kingdom.
He urged him to deploy his “wealth of experience and international exposure” towards the upliftment of his people in all ramifications.
“As a traditional ruler, especially under a democratic dispensation, it is crucial that I stress the need for you to follow the path of dialogue and consensus in all your dealings with your subjects and in all the community’s relationship with all tiers and levels of government.
“It is my sincere hope that Your Majesty will strive to maintain the sanctity of his exalted office and lead your people to greater prosperity while upholding the tenet of justice, fair play and equity,” Oborevwiri said.
Omon-Julius Onabu
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