Response to Ejiro Idama's Criticism Defends Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's Performance in Delta State

A fresh debate has emerged over the performance of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori following the publication of a response to a recent opinion article by columnist Ejiro Idama. The response challenges Idama's criticism of the governor, arguing that political commentary should be rooted in verifiable facts rather than satire or rhetorical expression.

The article, published as a viewpoint, opens by criticizing Idama's writing style, describing it as entertaining but lacking factual support. According to the writer, while political criticism remains an essential part of democracy, it should be supported by evidence instead of relying heavily on metaphors and personal interpretation.

Central to the response is the argument that Governor Oborevwori's emergence as governor was the result of a democratic process rather than political coincidence. The author notes that the governor won one of Delta State's most competitive governorship elections and that his victory was subjected to judicial scrutiny before ultimately being upheld, reinforcing the legitimacy of his administration.

The response also points to what it describes as measurable achievements recorded during Oborevwori's administration. It highlights the completion and commissioning of roads across Delta State's three senatorial districts, alongside the execution of numerous infrastructure projects involving roads, bridges, drainage systems, schools, hospitals, and other public facilities.

According to figures referenced in the article, projects valued at more than ₦654.5 billion were reportedly completed in 2025 without the state taking on additional borrowing. The writer argues that maintaining fiscal stability while funding major development projects demonstrates prudent financial management and effective governance.

Beyond infrastructure, the article credits the administration with maintaining regular salary payments for civil servants, improving pension payments, supporting contractors through timely payments, sustaining industrial harmony, expanding educational and healthcare infrastructure, and continuing bursary support for students across the state.

The response further argues that Governor Oborevwori's leadership style is focused more on delivering projects than attracting public attention. Rather than governing through media appearances and political spectacle, the governor is portrayed as prioritizing practical development and long-term public service.

Addressing criticism of the administration's "MORE Agenda," the author insists that the policy has evolved beyond campaign rhetoric, claiming that its implementation can be seen through completed infrastructure projects and ongoing development initiatives throughout the state.

The opinion piece also criticizes what it describes as a tendency among some political commentators to equate media visibility with government performance. Instead, it argues that the true measure of any administration should be reflected in improved public services, functioning healthcare facilities, quality education, reliable infrastructure, responsible public spending, and overall improvements in citizens' daily lives.

Using several proverbs and analogies, the writer maintains that effective governance is ultimately judged by tangible achievements rather than newspaper commentary. While acknowledging Ejiro Idama's literary style, the response concludes that public opinion should be guided by documented results and measurable development instead of political satire.

The article ends by suggesting that, rather than asking how Sheriff Oborevwori became governor of Delta State, many residents are increasingly interested in how much further the state's development can progress under his administration.

Editor's Note: This article summarizes the viewpoints expressed in a published opinion piece. The claims and opinions presented are those of the original author and do not necessarily represent independently verified facts or the views of this publication.