By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has delivered a stern message to the State Executive Council, asserting that their job security hinges on their performance rather than gossip.
During the inauguration of eight newly constructed duplexes at the Commissioners’ Quarters in Asaba on Monday, Governor Oborevwori commended his commissioners for their dedication and loyalty but emphasized that lackluster performance will not be accepted.
“I’d like to commend our commissioners for their loyalty, dedication, and hard work. However, I want to address the widespread rumors about the potential dissolution of the Executive Council. These speculations are unfounded and merely reflect people’s tendency to engage in talk,” he stated.
The governor clarified that while a full-scale dissolution is not in the works, commissioners who fail to perform adequately will be removed from their positions.
“If you are not delivering results, we will have to let you go, but that decision will not impact others positively contributing,” he remarked. “Currently, there are a few individuals not meeting expectations. Just today, I told one of them in the chapel that their performance was lacking,” he added.
He stressed the importance of taking initiative and being visible in their roles.
“As a commissioner, if we don’t see your presence, it means you need to take charge. You should be proactive in seeking the Governor rather than waiting for me to come to you. Many others are actively looking to engage with me; it’s crucial that you bring energy and initiative to your ministry,” Governor Oborevwori asserted.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to accountability, holding each commissioner responsible for the success of their respective departments.
“If there are issues in any ministry, the commissioner must be held accountable. A well-functioning ministry is a reflection of a capable commissioner,” he noted.
“We have several projects lined up for commissioning. Although we may not complete them all by the end of this year, we will strive to make significant progress. We aim to replicate what Mr. President accomplished during last Saturday’s commissioning by formally presenting multiple projects simultaneously in one location.”
“That is our plan for Warri on Wednesday. We will organize and present multiple projects in a unified ceremony,” he added.
“Today, we are here to inaugurate eight four-bedroom duplexes, each equipped with two staff quarters. This initiative arose because, upon taking office, we discovered only 22 available residences at the Commissioners’ Quarters, while the number of commissioners exceeded that amount. This led to our decision, reflecting our commitment to ensuring adequate accommodations for senior government officials.”
Chief Fidelis Tilije, Dean of Commissioners and Commissioner for Finance, expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for supporting the construction of the new residences and requested renovations for the existing older quarters.
Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, provided details about the project, noting it consists of eight duplexes with staff quarters and lounges, and praised Governor Oborevwori for his support in completing these structures.