By Anne Azuka
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has clarified that only the Federal Government has the capacity to dredge the River Niger.
The governor made this statement on Wednesday while responding to calls from riverine communities in the state for the dredging of the river to mitigate flooding. His comments were delivered during the Presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Dr. Gregory Nnamdi Oputa, as Obi Oputa III, the 20th Obi of Aboh, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori noted:
“The issue of dredging the River Niger is a longstanding one. It will best be handled by the Federal Government as many states will be affected.”
The governor congratulated Dr. Oputa on his ascension as Obi of Aboh and urged him to use his experience for the benefit of his people.
“As a traditional ruler, particularly in a democratic dispensation, it is crucial to emphasize dialogue and consensus in dealing with your subjects and in managing relationships with all levels of government,” Oborevwori stated.
He further encouraged the new monarch to uphold justice, fairness, and equity while working toward the prosperity of his people.
A Historic Occasion
The governor celebrated the significance of the event, highlighting the presence of dignitaries including captains of industry, traditional leaders, government officials, and other notable personalities as a testament to its importance.
Oborevwori praised the legacies of the late Obi Imegwu, Dr. Oputa’s predecessor, noting his role as a rallying figure in the region. He called on the people of Aboh to support their new king wholeheartedly.
“I urge the people of Aboh Kingdom to make the reign of Obi Oputa III one of the most successful in the history of the kingdom, the state, and the nation,” he added.
Uniting Aboh Kingdom
Earlier, the Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Council, Hon. Vincent Osilonya, commended the presentation of the Staff of Office, stating it had resolved disputes over the royal stool. He called on the people to unite and support their new leader.
In a separate address, Chief Tony Amechi, on behalf of the Aboh Kingdom, expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for the presentation ceremony and voiced confidence in the ability of Obi Oputa III to lead the kingdom to greater heights.
The occasion marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Aboh Kingdom, with hopes high for peace, prosperity, and progress under the reign of Obi Oputa III.
