The Head of the Association of Urhobo Mayoral Family Crown (AUMFC) and Mayor of Urhoboland, His Excellency Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Mayor Akpodoro, has criticized Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s leadership, saying he has failed to live up to the expectations of the Urhobo nation.
Speaking in Abuja during a stakeholders’ meeting, Akpodoro argued that the governor has demonstrated more loyalty to his Okpe roots than to the collective Urhobo identity, which, according to him, undermines the unity and progress of the Urhobo people.
He expressed disappointment over the governor’s handling of the Okuama crisis in Ughelli South, noting that his delayed response to the plight of the community reflected insensitivity. He further lamented the continued detention of prominent Urhobo sons, including a professor from Delta State University, Abraka, without visible intervention from the governor.
While acknowledging Governor Oborevwori’s infrastructural projects, Akpodoro accused him of neglecting Urhobo interests and “wasting the Urhobo slot.” He recalled that despite strong support from Urhobo voters in the 2023 elections, the governor has failed to reciprocate with patronage, respect for traditional rulers, or opportunities for Urhobo youths.
“Former governors Emmanuel Uduaghan and Ifeanyi Okowa empowered their people within two years in office. Who has Oborevwori lifted among Urhobo youths? Where are the contracts, the empowerment, the recognition of our leaders?” Akpodoro asked.
He warned that if the governor continues on this path, Urhobo leaders and youths may reconsider their political support ahead of 2027, stressing that the community would not allow its turn in power to be squandered before it rotates to Delta South in 2031.
Akpodoro also faulted the governor for alleged arrogance and disregard for advice, noting that he often ignores calls from Urhobo monarchs and stakeholders. He cited the case of an Urhobo woman stranded in Ghana who was rescued through private donations rather than state intervention, contrasting it with what he described as frivolous government spending elsewhere.
“The governor owes Urhobo a duty of responsibility and patronage. We demand respect for our elders, empowerment for our youths, and recognition of our place in the state. Anything short of this, and 2027 may be a mirage for him,” Akpodoro stated, urging Oborevwori to retrace his steps.
