A REJOINDER ON DELTA STATE’S PROGRESS AND CONSTRUCTIVE COLLABORATION

By Henry Eloho Ayanruoh

In response to Zik Gbemre’s article, Delta @ 33 Plus & Alhaji Bukar’s Pain Over Lost Glory of Warri, it is important to first acknowledge Gbemre as a true patriot and committed Deltan. His passion for the progress of the Niger Delta and his love for the Urhobo nation are evident in his writings. His voice serves as an essential part of the ongoing dialogue about Delta State’s future. One could surmise that his decision to resend an article first published in August 2024 reflects a genuine desire for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to act on Alhaji Bukar’s advice.

However, while raising valid concerns about the state’s development, the criticisms of Governor Oborevwori’s leadership in the article seem overly absolute and may not represent the full scope of his administration’s efforts. Statements such as “he doesn’t care” or “he governs to satisfy a predecessor” risk oversimplifying the complexities of governance. Leadership at this level involves addressing systemic challenges that have built up over decades. These cannot be resolved overnight. Instead, they require strategic planning, time, and, most importantly, the collective support of citizens like Gbemre, whose commitment to accountability and progress is invaluable.

Rather than framing the situation solely in terms of deficiencies, it is equally critical to highlight ongoing efforts and the foundations being laid for a more prosperous Delta State. It is unrealistic to expect all issues to be resolved in just two years. The administration’s work should be viewed as part of a continuous process—a commitment to long-term solutions rather than immediate perfection.

Engr. Abdullah Bukar’s recommendations, as referenced in the article, are indeed insightful and rooted in experience. However, tying them to criticisms of the current administration could suggest that these ideas have been dismissed, which may not be the case. A more collaborative approach, presenting these recommendations directly to the government, might yield better results than framing them as evidence of failure.

Constructive criticism should foster dialogue rather than alienate leadership. Engr. Bukar’s recommendations could serve as a starting point for collaboration rather than conflict. To maximize their impact, consider the following approaches:

  1. Formal Presentation: Submit these recommendations to the state government in a structured format for consideration.
  2. Stakeholder Engagement: Organize civic forums or stakeholder meetings to discuss actionable steps for implementing these ideas.
  3. Collaborative Advocacy: Partner with civil society organizations or interest groups to amplify the significance of these recommendations in a productive way.

It is essential to recognize the many challenges faced by the Oborevwori administration, including limited resources, federal constraints, and inherited liabilities. These realities must be factored into public discourse to ensure fair assessments and constructive engagement.

Conclusion

Public discourse plays a crucial role in shaping governance. However, its tone and framing significantly determine its impact. Criticism, when framed constructively, opens pathways for dialogue and collaboration. Delta State stands at the threshold of progress, and by fostering a culture of mutual engagement, concerned citizens and the government can work together to address pressing issues while building on existing achievements. Let us seize this opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Delta State’s growth and transformation.

*Henry Eloho Ayanruoh
Executive Assistant on Community Development
To The Governor of Delta State.

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