By Sunday Apah
The Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, has rebutted statements made by Chief Wilson Omene, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Council.
Ahon criticized Omene’s assessment of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s infrastructure initiatives as misguided and poorly informed.
In a recent interview on an online TV,Chief Omene dismissed the ongoing construction of flyovers in Warri and Effurun, arguing that they are not linked to any economic or productive sectors. He also expressed disapproval of the Governor’s decision to join the APC.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Ahon characterized the flyover projects as vital infrastructure designed to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and stimulate economic activity in Warri and Effurun, which are significant commercial centers in Delta State.
“The flyovers, along with road expansions and an interchange, are not superficial changes. They constitute long-term investments in urban mobility, facilitate business operations, and contribute to overall economic development.
“These cities are crucial as they connect the ports, industries, and surrounding areas. The projects are unlocking commercial potential and creating a supportive environment for increased private-sector investment. Chief Wilson Omene might benefit from understanding the term ‘supportive business environment,’” the Governor’s spokesperson stated.
Ahon highlighted that the Warri-Effurun corridor serves a growing population and is essential to the state’s economy, pointing out that only individuals disconnected from contemporary urban planning would fail to see the importance of these developments.
Furthermore, Ahon challenged Omene’s assertion that financial resources should have been allocated to establish industries in the Delta Central Senatorial District, calling the perspective narrow-minded and emphasizing that Governor Oborevwori aims to serve the entire state, not just one region.
“Delta State encompasses more than any single senatorial district. The Governor’s M.O.R.E agenda—Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—is being applied fairly across Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South. No region is being overlooked,” he added.
Regarding the Governor’s shift to the APC, Ahon clarified that it stemmed from extensive consultations with political leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives throughout the state.
He explained that the decision was strategic, aimed at positioning Delta State for enhanced federal collaboration and developmental prospects.
“Governor Oborevwori’s alignment with the APC was not motivated by personal gain but was intended to collaborate with the Federal Government in delivering greater benefits to Deltans and residents. Chief Wilson Omene is merely playing the role assigned to him by those who view the Governor’s choice to join the APC as a threat to their political agendas.
“This decision followed comprehensive consultations and is focused on advancing the collective benefits of Deltans rather than narrow partisan interests,” he added.
Sir Ahon encouraged Chief Omene and other critics to engage in constructive dialogue instead of perpetuating divisive rhetoric. He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to inclusive development, infrastructure enhancement, and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
“While constructive criticism is welcomed, it should be based on factual information and guided by a genuine intention to advance Delta State,” he concluded.
