As Delta State marks its 35th anniversary, residents have used the occasion to reflect on the state’s development journey, with some questioning whether the level of infrastructure and social amenities matches the resources that have accrued to the state over the years.
While some Deltans commended the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and its MORE Agenda, others said more needed to be done to improve the living conditions of ordinary residents across the state.
The divergent views emerged as the state celebrates 35 years since its creation, with residents assessing developments in areas such as roads, education, healthcare, drainage, employment and the provision of basic amenities.
One of the major concerns raised was the state’s infrastructure deficit despite years of federal allocations, derivation revenue and internally generated revenue.
“Delta State is 35 years old today, yet we are still asking the same painful question: Where is the development?” one resident asked.
According to the resident, Deltans are still confronted with challenges including bad roads, poor drainage systems, inadequate schools, weak healthcare infrastructure and unemployment.
The resident argued that the issue was not necessarily about politics but about accountability and the need for government to demonstrate how public resources had been utilised.
“A state blessed with enormous resources should not look this way after 35 years. The problem is not lack of money; the bigger problem is how the money has been managed,” the resident said.
Another Deltan said the anniversary should provide an opportunity for residents and government to reflect on the state’s development and the impact of public spending on communities.
“Deltans deserve more than political propaganda, ceremonies and promises. We deserve to see the evidence of our collective wealth in our communities,” the resident said.
Another contributor asked: “Where is the development? Where did the money go? And who is going to account for it?”
The contributor said 35 years was long enough for the state to have achieved significant transformation in education, social development and the provision of basic amenities.
However, not all the reactions were critical of the government.
Some residents acknowledged what they described as the strides of the current administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, while noting that more remained to be done.
“We thank God for the giant strides taken by the administration under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. But a lot still needs to be done. Lives should be touched,” one resident said.
Another resident expressed support for the governor’s MORE Agenda, saying, “The governor’s MORE Agenda is working for the state though.”
For some residents, the key measure of the state’s progress should be whether government policies and projects are making a tangible difference in the lives of ordinary people.
“Deltans cannot seem to be happy and celebrate until there is growth and development in comparison with the amount of resources or revenue that came in or was received,” one resident said.
The resident added: “Can the ordinary man in the streets feel the impact of government? That’s what we should be asking.”
As Delta State celebrates its 35th anniversary, the reactions highlight both the achievements recorded over the years and the expectations of residents for faster and more visible development.
For many Deltans, the anniversary is therefore not only a celebration of the state’s journey but also an opportunity to demand greater accountability, improved infrastructure and development that directly impacts communities.
“Happy 35th Anniversary, Delta State—but let this anniversary also be a moment of serious reflection and accountability,” a resident said.
