Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged leaders and elders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups to bury divisions and unite for peace, stressing that only harmony can guarantee sustainable development in Warri and across Delta State.
Speaking at the funeral service of the late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri, Governor Oborevwori cautioned against the reckless use of social media to spread falsehoods and incite conflict. He noted that many young people today did not witness the vibrant and peaceful Warri of the past, and warned that online hate campaigns could further destabilize communities.
“In all, what we need is unity. I have witnessed a crisis and I know its consequences. People are using social media to cause problems, this must stop. I want to develop Warri because this is my home,” he declared.
Recalling his personal experience during past unrest, the Governor said his father’s house in Igoruwe was spared while others burned simply because it carried the inscription “Sheriff Papa House.” He described the event as a painful reminder of the destruction violence leaves behind.
Oborevwori, who proudly declared “Warri dey sweet me for body,” emphasized that he has no other home outside Warri and vowed to govern without bias. “I am a man with street credibility and local content, not from the diaspora. Now that I am Governor, I am Governor for all, and I will not take sides,” he stressed.
He reassured Deltans of his commitment to fast-track development across the state, promising not to fail the people who entrusted him with leadership. He also urged critics, especially those outside the state, to desist from stoking division and called on parents to guide their children against misusing social media.
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Paying tribute to Mrs. Agbolayah, the Governor described her as a woman of faith and integrity whose legacy lives on through her children. “Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a bishop. My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.
Delivering the sermon, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, Primate of the African Church, urged Christians to be peacemakers and nation-builders, citing II Timothy 4:7: “Fight a Good Fight.” He described the late Mrs. Agbolayah was a God-fearing woman who lived a life of service and left behind a lasting legacy.
The Primate also praised Governor Oborevwori for his leadership and commitment to Delta State, saying, “From the way you are going, Delta will soon compete with Lagos in infrastructure. The people love you and we pray God strengthens you to do more.”
The funeral was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the State Executive Council, and other top government officials.
