BY FESTUS AHON
ABUJA—As Deltans celebrate the swearing in of Dr. Steve Oru as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs by President Goodluck Jonathan, stakeholders and political leaders in the state have described his appointment as a good omen for the development of the Niger Delta region.
In separate chats with Vanguard, Deltans said Oru’s knowledge of the problems confronting the region would facilitate its development.
Those who spoke include, Mr Daniel Idonor, Olorogun Taleb Tebite, Mr Sam Marierie, Evangelist S. Olotu, Chief Andrew Oru, Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu and Olorogun Jaro Egbo.
Mr Idonor said: “There has never been a time a minister, who was nominated by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has received wide acceptance like we have today. Dr. Oru is acceptable to PDP members at every level. This is the first time I am seeing Delta State so united in this manner.”
Member representing Ughelli South in Delta State House of Assembly, Olorogun Tebite, expressed confidence that Oru would bring his wealth of experience to bear in the discharge of his duties as minister in charge of the Niger Delta.
“As a true son of the Niger Delta who has lived with the people, Oru is conversant with the needs of the people and he knows how to tackle them. We the people of Urhobo nation are pleased with his appointment.”
Also, the Deputy National President of Urhobo Youth Council, Olorogun Egbo, said that Oru’s appointment is a welcome development, adding, “his appointment as a minister is in line with the yearnings of the Urhobo people.”
On his part, the member representing Ughelli North constituency 1 in Delta State House of Assembly, Mr Sam Marierie, said: “Oru’s appointment is a square peg in a square hole because this is somebody who has served this country and our great party in various capacities. He is somebody that knows the Niger Delta very well.”
Also speaking, Evangelist S.O. Olotu, said: “As someone from the area, a lot is expected from Oru especially in road development and youth empowerment. His appointment is well deserved and this is the first minister that Urhobos are having in the President Jonathan administration. We are sure of rapid development in the region.”
Dr Ebenezer Okorodudu, said; “Oru is an amiable man who is close to the people and he is very accessible. We know he will do well and all of us will be proud.”
Source: Vanguard NGR
