By Reen Chidi
The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to intervening in the rehabilitation of critical federal roads across the state, while strongly condemning political violence and intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, gave the assurance during an appearance on TVC’s Politics Tonight, where he highlighted the importance of road infrastructure to economic growth, agricultural development and commercial activities.
Aniagwu explained that although roads may not directly provide food for the people, functional road networks are essential to agricultural productivity, trade and economic prosperity, as they connect production centres with markets and consumers.
He acknowledged the country’s infrastructure challenges but maintained that both federal and state governments were making efforts to address them.
Citing the Abuja-Kaduna highway, the commissioner noted that the Federal Government was undertaking rehabilitation works on the route using concrete rigid pavement technology.
He also highlighted the collaboration between the Delta and Federal Governments in facilitating access to the Second Niger Bridge, particularly the state’s intervention through the payment of compensation running into billions of naira for the construction of the connecting bypass.
According to him, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had resolved that the state would not remain indifferent to the deteriorating condition of important federal roads within its territory.
He pointed to the state’s intervention along the Benin-Warri corridor in Effurun, where concrete pavement construction had been undertaken, as well as the emergency response to a challenging section of the East-West Road, which he said was addressed within 48 hours.
On the recent political violence in Asaba, which reportedly resulted in one death and five injuries, Aniagwu faulted attempts to portray the incident as a mere confrontation between supporters of rival political groups.
He alleged that members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were involved in the violence during a rally reportedly held against police advice concerning the need to secure an appropriate venue.
The commissioner further claimed that video recordings of the incident captured individuals allegedly encouraging others to attack and kill. He also expressed concern over statements attributed to a political leader suggesting that lives could be lost if the outcome of an election was manipulated.
Aniagwu, however, emphasised that the Oborevwori administration had no tolerance for political violence, intimidation or the harassment of political opponents, regardless of party affiliation.
He disclosed that the governor had directed security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, ensuring that everyone found culpable, including alleged instigators and perpetrators, was brought to justice.
He insisted that the investigation must be free from political interference and that anyone found responsible should face the full weight of the law.
While referring to reports of arrests and alleged confessions by some suspects, Aniagwu urged security agencies to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion.
On preparations for the 2027 general elections, the commissioner said the governor and the Delta State APC Campaign Council had resolved to centre their campaign on governance, development and the administration’s achievements rather than attacks on political opponents.
He said Governor Oborevwori had repeatedly advised party supporters to avoid confrontation and instead engage the electorate by showcasing the administration’s performance.
According to Aniagwu, the government’s record in infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, public service reforms and social investment provides sufficient grounds for political engagement with Deltans.
“Even if Oborevwori starts commissioning projects every day from today, he will not have enough time to commission all the projects his administration has executed,” he said.
He challenged opposition parties to identify any local government area in Delta State, insisting that the impact of the administration’s projects and interventions could be seen across communities.
The commissioner also announced that the state government was preparing to empower 15,000 indigent residents through its social investment programme.
He explained that beneficiaries would undergo a thorough screening process to ensure that the intervention reached genuine business owners and operators of micro-enterprises.
According to him, a verification mechanism would be introduced to prevent the diversion of funds and guarantee that the programme benefits only qualified individuals.
Addressing concerns surrounding workers’ welfare and the administration’s appeal to civil servants for political support, Aniagwu defended the government’s record, arguing that workers’ welfare should be evaluated based on policies and tangible actions rather than isolated public statements.
He listed promotions, recognition of seniority in appointments, improved welfare provisions and other government interventions as evidence of the administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of public servants.
He also described the governor’s appeal for workers’ support as an expression of confidence that those who had benefited from the administration’s policies would appreciate its performance.
Aniagwu, however, reiterated that political disagreements must never degenerate into violence, threats or intimidation, stressing that all differences should be resolved through lawful and democratic means.
He maintained that the Oborevwori administration remained committed to peaceful political participation, infrastructural development and people-oriented governance, expressing confidence that its record in office would earn it the support of Deltans ahead of the 2027 general elections.
