Edwin Clark Lauds Delta Governor Oborevwori’s Developmental Success Despite Election Disagreement

Chief Edwin Clark, the former Federal Commissioner for Information and a key Ijaw leader, has publicly commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his impressive achievements in governance since taking office on May 29, 2023. Despite not supporting Oborevwori’s candidacy during the 2023 gubernatorial election, Clark praised the governor’s transformative efforts in improving the state’s infrastructure and boosting its economic growth.

In an open letter dated January 17, 2025, Clark, who also chairs the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), lauded Oborevwori’s work in revitalizing Warri and addressing long-standing infrastructural deficits across Delta State. He challenged the governor’s critics to point out any previous leader of Delta who had made such significant strides in such a short time.

Clark specifically singled out Oborevwori’s focus on Warri, a city that had been neglected by past administrations. Under the governor’s leadership, Warri is beginning to regain its status as a major commercial hub, thanks to critical infrastructure projects like the construction of three flyovers and several road developments at the DSC Roundabout. These projects, funded by a ₦78 billion contract with Julius Berger, are a testament to Oborevwori’s commitment to the city’s revitalization.

“Warri is fast becoming a sight to behold, returning to its former glory,” Clark wrote, noting that previous leaders had focused development efforts on less populated areas, leaving Warri to suffer. He also praised the governor for his inclusive approach to development, ensuring that nearly every part of the state benefits from these projects.

While expressing his approval of Oborevwori’s achievements, Clark also took the opportunity to highlight the need for greater attention to the needs of Ijaw communities in Delta. He urged the governor to prioritize the completion of key infrastructure projects, such as the Ayakromo and Gberegolor/Esama bridges, and to continue supporting initiatives by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) that would directly benefit these communities.

Clark’s letter serves not only as an acknowledgment of Oborevwori’s accomplishments but also as a call for further focus on the equitable development of all regions within Delta State, particularly the Ijaw communities that have long been underrepresented in state-led development efforts.