Publisher of The Common Good Letter, Rev. David Ugolor, has appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth representatives in Oghara, Delta State, to utilize Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's recent visit to address critical developmental issues affecting the community. The governor's visit was for the commissioning of the Oghareki Model Technical College. Ugolor emphasized that this presents an opportunity to seek concrete commitments from the state government on several pressing challenges.
The challenges highlighted by Ugolor include recurring flooding, deteriorating road infrastructure, inadequate drainage systems, and concerns surrounding the development of the Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara. He stressed that residents affected by these issues deserve urgent attention and practical solutions. Ugolor urged community leaders to present these concerns directly to Governor Oborevwori, demanding clear explanations, specific timelines, and identifiable officials responsible for implementing remedial measures.
On the issue of recurring flooding in Oghara, Ugolor called for immediate relief for affected households and businesses. He also advocated for a comprehensive assessment of the community's drainage network and natural water catchments. Furthermore, he suggested an investigation into the possible impact of Navy fencing on the natural flow of water, emphasizing the need for a properly funded flood-control plan to address the problem sustainably.
Ugolor raised concerns about a N20 million provision in the Delta State Government's 2024 budget for flood and erosion control measures in Oghara. According to him, the year-end budget performance report recorded zero expenditure against the allocation. This has prompted questions about whether the proposed project was delayed, cancelled, or transferred to another budget line. He called on the relevant authorities to publish the records and explain why no expenditure was recorded.
The publisher also challenged the Ethiope West Local Government Council to publish details of its annual revenue receipts, deductions, contracts, and expenditures, particularly for the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years. He advocated for an independent investigation and public release of its findings where allegations of diversion or misuse of public funds exist. This, he believes, will promote accountability and strengthen public confidence in local governance.
Addressing the issue of oil revenue and public infrastructure, Ugolor urged the state government to provide details of projects financed through Delta State's 13 per cent oil derivation revenue and other relevant development programmes in Oghara and the wider Ethiope West Local Government Area. He specifically called for a costed development plan outlining proposed interventions in road rehabilitation and other critical infrastructure.
The community leaders and residents are now awaiting a response from Governor Oborevwori and the state government on the pressing issues affecting Oghara. The governor's administration is expected to provide clarity on the implementation of remedial measures and the management of public funds. The call for transparency and accountability by Rev. David Ugolor has resonated with the community, which is eager to see tangible solutions to its developmental challenges.
Key points
- Rev. David Ugolor calls for urgent attention to flooding, road infrastructure, and hospital development in Oghara.
- The publisher questions the N20 million provision for flood and erosion control measures in Oghara.
- Ugolor advocates for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
