The Delta State government has denied allegations that large crowds attending the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaigns in the state are rented. Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, stated that the growing support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is a reflection of public appreciation for their performance. He cited new projects in Warri South-West Local Government Area as an example of the Oborevwori administration's development efforts.
Aniagwu appeared on TVC's 'Politics Tonight' and emphasized that the crowds at the governor's political engagements are organic and made up of residents who voluntarily turn out to identify with the administration. He highlighted the governor's inclusive approach to governance and visible development projects across the 25 local government areas as factors that have strengthened public confidence in his administration. According to Aniagwu, the excitement and enthusiasm of the people at these gatherings are not characteristics of rented crowds.
The commissioner pointed to the political realignment in Delta, where Governor Oborevwori and several former PDP leaders have joined the APC, as a significant development that could influence the state's political direction ahead of the 2027 elections. He argued that the alignment between the Federal Government and the Delta State Government has enabled the state to benefit from national policies and translate them into development projects and social intervention programmes.
Aniagwu expressed confidence that the relationship between both administrations would strengthen the APC's electoral fortunes in the state. He noted that the Oborevwori administration has demonstrated fiscal discipline and pragmatism in implementing policies, and that the benefits of the Federal Government's reforms are being complemented by development initiatives at the state level. The commissioner highlighted Delta's third-month salary payment policy, which has been backed by legislation to guarantee its sustainability.
The policy goes beyond paying workers their basic salaries, as public servants receive the additional payment on the same basis as their regular monthly salaries. Aniagwu also emphasized that the true value of any manifesto should be measured by its implementation rather than the promises contained in it. He said the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda and Delta's MORE Agenda are both designed to improve living conditions, create opportunities, and strengthen economic development.
The commissioner acknowledged that the removal of petroleum subsidy has initially attracted public criticism, but argued that one major improvement has been the increased availability of petrol. He recalled that Nigerians previously faced a situation in which petrol was not readily available and, when it could be found, sold at exorbitant prices. Aniagwu expressed optimism that the reforms, alongside measures to improve purchasing power, would gradually ease the burden on households.
The Delta State government is preparing to commence another social investment programme, which will provide support to 50,000 Deltans. Aniagwu maintained that the Oborevwori administration's development programmes, combined with the Federal Government's economic reforms, have strengthened the basis for the state's support for Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027. The APC is confident of its prospects across Delta's 25 local government areas and intends to build on the goodwill generated by the performance of both governments.
Key points
- The Delta State government has denied allegations of rented crowds at APC campaigns, citing public appreciation for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's performance.
