In Delta State today, the reality is plain: Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was not the collective choice of the Urhobo people.
He was handpicked and installed by Ifeanyi Okowa, his predecessor, as part of a political succession plan.
That imposition robbed the Urhobo nation of the dignity of producing its own governor. Instead of reflecting the people’s will, it became a continuation of Okowa’s legacy.
Now, after two years in office, Oborevwori is already looking ahead to another term.
But we must ask: if this is truly the Urhobo turn, why should Urhobos accept a leader who was imposed on them rather than chosen by them?
Why This Arrangement Has Not Worked for Urhobos. Imposition Over Choice.
The so-called Urhobo turn was not born of Urhobo consensus, but of Okowa’s will. Urhobos have yet to truly select their own leader.
No Real Benefits
Despite having an “Urhobo governor,” the people have not seen meaningful progress. Infrastructure remains poor, industries absent, and job opportunities scarce.
The Tragedy of Okuama
Perhaps the most painful example is the destruction of Okuama. This happened during the tenure of an Urhobo governor, yet there has been no genuine remedy, no reconstruction, and no justice for those who suffered.
If Urhobos cannot find protection and remedy even under one of their own, what then is the value of this arrangement?
Warri Reduced to the “Keke Capital of the World”
Warri, once the heartbeat of commerce and pride of Delta, has lost its shine. Today, it is derisively known as the “Keke capital of the world,” a sad reflection of how industries have collapsed and opportunities vanished.
Under Urhobo leadership, this decline has not been reversed, it has worsened.
Continuation of Okowa’s Legacy
Policies and governance style remain tethered to Okowa’s interests, not tailored to the aspirations of Urhobo communities.
Loss of Dignity and Bargaining Power
Far from strengthening Urhobo political weight, the arrangement has made Urhobos appear unable to stand on their own feet, reduced to accepting what is handed down rather than producing leadership that reflects their strength.
The Way Forward
The matter is not about party formulas or rotation. It is about principle. People must be able to choose their own leader.
If Urhobos are to move forward, they must insist that their governor truly represents them, not the project of a predecessor, not the continuation of a legacy that has failed them, but a governor chosen by Urhobos, for Urhobos.
Let Urhobos choose their own governor.
About the Author
Dr. Abel Dafiaghor is a Delta-born civic advocate and physical therapist.
His father was the Chairman of the Delta State Movement in Ughelli, and he is passionate about good governance, accountability, and the dignity of ordinary Deltans.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author, Dr. Abel Dafiaghor, and do not necessarily reflect the position or editorial policy of Story Publishing House.
