February 11, (THEWILL) – No fewer than 235 registered Support Groups have petitioned the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, over what they described as sidelining by the State Government.
In a letter dated February 3, 2024, addressed to the Governor and signed by the Secretary, Directorate of Volunteer Groups, Honorable Prince Philip Igwenwanne, the groups expressed regrets, lamenting that, the support they expected and rightfully deserved from Oborevwori’s government has been alarmingly absent.
The groups also frowned at the negligence of a series of letters written to the State Governor to discuss with him before now, which were neither acknowledged nor given any attention.
The Support Groups were one of the powerful political structures during the vigorous campaign that eventually brought Oborevwori to power last year.
In the letter titled “Complaint Regarding Negligence of Support and Sidelining of the Volunteer/Support Groups” the groups reminded the Governor that their members were hopeful that their involvement in the campaign would create avenues for them to participate in the governance and development of their state.
They, however, added that the lack of inclusion and access to opportunities has dampened their spirits and diminished their motivation to continue supporting your administration.
The groups, according to the letter, are also seeking the opportunity to engage in a dialogue with the Governor, where they can voice their concerns and collaborate on finding practical solutions to restore trust, foster inclusivity, and create avenues for active participation of the volunteer group in governmental initiatives.
Part of the letter reads “It is crucial to recognize that the volunteer group represents a significant segment of the party’s dedicated supporters who wholeheartedly believed in your (MORE)vision and agenda. We came together, sacrificing our personal time and resources, with the sole aim of contributing to the realisation of a better future for our state under your leadership.
“Governor Oborewvowri, it is important to stress that our purpose in bringing forth these concerns is not to cast aspersions or create divisions within the party or your government. On the contrary, we firmly believe in the principles and objectives of our party and aspire to work in harmony with your administration to achieve the desired transformation. Recognising the immense potential of the volunteer group’s contributions, it is crucial to rectify this situation to ensure a more inclusive and synergistic relationship”.
Earlier, the Support Groups had written a congratulatory letter to the Governor, suggesting consideration of appointments for some principal officials/Volunteer Heads that played vital roles in the victory of the Governor.
In response, the State Government in a letter dated 22nd June 2023, with reference number GHP/COS/90/T2/217, signed by Ifeanyi Mok, for the Director, Office of Chief of Staff, Delta State Governor acknowledged their demand.
“Kindly be informed that the content of your letter has been noted”, the letter indicated.
About the Author
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
