Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Wednesday, donated 65 new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers in the state in recognition of their critical role in ensuring good governance.

Mr Oborevwori, who described the traditional institution as “a tool for service”, for guardians of peace and stability, presented the cars to the royal fathers at the Government House, Asaba.

The vehicles included 60 new Prado Jeeps and five Land Cruisers.

According to the governor, the gesture underscored the centrality of the traditional institution in governance.

He described the event as “a very important and symbolic day in the life of this administration”, adding that “traditional rulers are far more than custodians of culture.

“The beneficiaries represent a special class of leaders, whose contributions to governance are critical, but often understated.

“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” the governor said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s irrevocable commitment to building a strong, inclusive economy, founded on equity and justice, and lauded the traditional rulers for their support.

He said: “Royal fathers play a frontline role in mobilising communities, promoting government programmes, resolving disputes, and supporting security agencies, often without expecting reward.

“I can confidently state that traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta.

“I commend their unwavering commitment to peace, progress and prosperity.

“Our royal fathers are often on the road, responding to government directives, mediating in communal disputes, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution.

“They do all these voluntarily and willingly. For this, we are truly grateful,” the governor said.

He said the decision to provide “rugged SUVs is deliberate, given the rural and difficult terrains many traditional rulers operate in.

“These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service.

“What is required is strength, durability and functionality, and that is what these vehicles provide,” he said.

The governor also said the gesture was part of his administration’s broader philosophy of inclusive governance, under the M.O.R.E Agenda, particularly its pillar of Opportunities for All.

He lauded the monarchs, saying: “You have not stressed me. You have not made demands.

“Wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, culture and cooperation.

“This gesture today is from the heart.”

Mr Oborevwori reeled out a wide range of social interventions already implemented by his government to include financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons, under the D-CARES Programme.

He also listed government’s grants to petty traders and artisans, empowerment of women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state, amongst others.

“From the foregoing, it is clear that every segment of our population has been touched.

“So, when we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness,” he said.

Earlier, deputy governor, Monday Onyeme, described the donation as “a clear and practical demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions in the state”.

Mr Onyeme said that the government’s gesture was in appreciation of the vital role traditional rulers play in ensuring peace, unity, and stability across the state.

In an address of welcome, the Secretary to the State Government, Kingsley Emu, outlined the various developmental strides of the Mr Oborevwori’s administration had made across different sectors of the state.

In a vote of thanks, the chairman, Delta Council of Traditional Rulers and the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom (Orhue 1), Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd.), described Mr Oborevwori’s donation as a timely.

He said it was also a “deeply symbolic intervention” that strengthens grassroots governance and peace-building across the state.

He said mobility remains central to the effective discharge of traditional rulers’ responsibilities.

He said, “A vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service.”

He assured the governor of their unwavering support, adding that royal fathers are custodians of culture and natural partners of government at the grassroots.

(NAN)