The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, over his stance on the Okpai Independent Power Project (IPP) in Delta North.
The group in a press conference on Sunday delivered by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwuiko, in Abuja, chided the governor for his lack of collaboration with the Senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko, to develop the project and the senatorial zone in general.
The association’s position was informed by claims that Governor Oborevwori in a recent statement said that Senator Nwoko had not discussed the Okpai IPP with him, alleging that their only meeting centred on the Senator seeking appointments for constituents.
The group said the governor’s assertion contradicts Senator Nwoko’s ongoing advocacy for the Okpai power step-down project, aimed at distributing 100 megawatts of power from the plant to Delta North communities.
HURIWA noted that the Senator’s efforts represent a broader commitment to the equitable development of Delta North, which has long suffered from neglect despite its contributions to the state’s economy.
The association expressed disappointment over the governor’s reluctance to collaborate on such a critical project, emphasizing that while the Okpai IPP is a federal initiative, state-level support is indispensable for its implementation.
“Senator Nwoko’s remarkable performance in the Senate, particularly his legislative achievements, has been widely acknowledged.
“Within two years, he has sponsored 25 bills and moved 19 motions, surpassing many of his contemporaries in the 10th Senate. His contributions include the Data Protection Bill and motions addressing environmental hazards and flooding. Senator Nwoko’s advocacy for establishing a National Social Security Agency to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs has even prompted President Bola Tinubu to propose an executive bill aligned with the Senator’s vision.
“In addition to his legislative impact, Senator Nwoko has initiated numerous community development projects, including scholarships, solar street lights, boreholes, and free medical outreach programs.
“He has also established Africa’s first Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko, creating educational and economic opportunities for the region.
“His push for the creation of Anioma State further underscores his commitment to addressing the systemic marginalization of Delta North,” the association remarked.
The association argued that the governor’s stance on the Okpai IPP and his alleged efforts to alienate Senator Nwoko from his constituents reflect a lack of appreciation for the Senator’s contributions.
They noted that the governor’s claim of financial constraints due to debt repayments from the previous administration does not excuse the absence of state-level action to support critical projects like the Okpai IPP and the Ogwashi-Uku Dam.
The association also condemned what it described as politically motivated attempts to undermine Senator Nwoko, particularly in light of his advocacy for Anioma State.
The association urged the state government to prioritize collaboration with the Senator to advance development projects critical to Delta North.
They further appealed to President Tinubu and other federal stakeholders to support Senator Nwoko’s initiatives, ensuring that his legislative and developmental efforts achieve their full potential.
The association called on all stakeholders to rally behind the Senator’s initiatives, emphasizing that a collaborative approach is essential for addressing the challenges facing Delta North and realizing its developmental aspirations.