The Delta State Government has released a relief fund of ₦458 million to residents of Ughoton, Ugbokodo, and Jeddo communities in Okpe Local Government Area who were affected by the devastating windstorm of April 15, which destroyed homes and properties worth millions of naira.
The Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, disclosed this during the accreditation and verification exercise in Ugbokodo on Tuesday. He said the intervention was a clear demonstration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to the welfare of citizens, particularly those affected by natural disasters.
According to Etacherure, 1,231 verified victims are set to benefit from the relief package. He urged beneficiaries to ensure proper documentation and to use the support wisely.
“The Governor’s prompt response shows his compassion and leadership,” he said. “This assistance may not replace all that was lost, but it is a gesture of solidarity and care. We encourage beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds.”
The member representing Okpe Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. James Aguoye, also lauded the intervention, describing it as unprecedented. He recalled that the Governor immediately dispatched a team to assess the damage after the storm, leading to a swift and structured response.
“This is leadership with empathy,” Aguoye stated. “Even while major projects are ongoing across the state, the Governor still prioritized the suffering of these communities. It is evidence of responsible governance.”
Chairman of Okpe Local Government Area, Hon. Isaiah Onoriode Esioma, also commended the Governor, saying the gesture reinforces the administration’s “people-first” agenda. He encouraged beneficiaries to channel the funds toward rebuilding their lives and homes.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Delta State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Alfred Ebrenenyin, assured that strict verification procedures were in place to ensure transparency and prevent the diversion of funds.
Community representatives, who spoke separately, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oborevwori.
From Ughoton, Pastor Henry Oborerhiri said the Governor’s intervention had “restored hope.”
Ugbokodo’s representative, Comrade Clifford Ayabare, described the relief as “a promise fulfilled.”
And from Jeddo, Mr. Prosper Nikomoshina said the gesture had “turned their sorrow into joy.”
The representative of non-indigenes in the affected areas, Mr. Abolade Orisabinone, also thanked the state government and praised the host communities for maintaining peaceful coexistence.
The disbursement of funds is expected to begin immediately following verification, offering affected families the means to begin rebuilding their lives.
