The governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has abolished the arbitrary upward review of contract sums to promote accountability and protect public resources.
The governor disclosed this at the thanksgiving service marking the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Delta State Judiciary, held at Emmanuel the Saviour Catholic Church, Asaba.
In a statement shared via the state government’s page on Wednesday, the decision aimed to strengthen transparency and fiscal discipline in line with the Delta State Public Procurement Law of 2020.
“We have ended the old practice of arbitrary review of contract sums and variations after agreements have been signed.
“Today, every state contract contains a clause that prevents such adjustments, and no contractor receives payment without a duly executed agreement,” Oborevwori said.
He explained that the policy is part of the broader reforms under his MORE Agenda – Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security aimed to entrench good governance and responsible financial management.
Oborevwori also commended the partnership between the executive and the legislature, which he said has produced landmark laws in the electricity and health sectors, noting that such synergy continues to deepen the rule of law and transparency in governance.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to uphold judicial independence, the Governor said the State Government would continue to invest in judicial infrastructure and technology, including automatic recording systems, e-filing, e-payment, and virtual hearing facilities across courts in the state.
On public service reforms, he highlighted the approval of a 158 per cent increase in Delta’s minimum wage in October 2024, surpassing the Federal Government’s 133 per cent increase to motivate workers and enhance efficiency.
He further disclosed that over N70bn had been released to clear outstanding state pension arrears, including a N10bn intervention to the State Pensions Board and an additional N2bn monthly to sustain payments.
In the area of social welfare, the Governor said his administration launched a Widows’ Welfare Scheme, providing free healthcare and monthly stipends to 10,000 widows across Delta State.
He also listed youth empowerment initiatives – MORE Grant Scheme, MORE WISE-Up, MORE ICT, and MORE Biz-Up, which are helping thousands of small businesses and artisans become self-reliant.
Oborevwori urged all arms of government to remain united in promoting justice and fairness, stressing that peace and progress can only thrive where the rule of law prevails.
“The executive, legislature, and judiciary are partners in service. Each arm depends on the other to function effectively.
“Together, we must continue to uphold the rule of law and ensure that every Deltan can live, work, and dream in a society governed by justice and fairness,” he said.
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