₦200m SUVs for Chiefs While Roads Kill, Schools Decay — Ogune Slams Delta Govt”

Alhaji Matthew Ogune, Chairman of MO MEDIA LTD, has criticised the Delta State Government over its decision to distribute 65 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs reportedly worth about ₦200 million) to traditional rulers across the state, describing the move as reckless spending amid worsening socio-economic conditions.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had on Wednesday presented the vehicles to the traditional rulers, describing them as “tools of service” for guardians of peace and stability in their respective communities.

Reacting to the development, Ogune said the action reflected misplaced priorities at a time when many communities in Delta State are lacking basic infrastructure and social services.

He cited Oruarivie and other host communities of the state-owned university, where he said internal roads are either nonexistent or have deteriorated into death traps, posing serious risks to students, academic staff, and residents.

According to him, the education sector in the state is also facing major challenges, with several public schools lacking basic facilities such as desks, functional classrooms, potable water, and learning materials.

Ogune further noted that youth unemployment remains on the rise, warning that continued neglect of job creation and skills development could worsen insecurity and social instability in the state.

“Spending such huge public funds on luxury vehicles at a time when schools are under-equipped, roads are impassable, and young people are unemployed sends the wrong signal and undermines public trust in government,” he said.

He stressed that while traditional rulers play important roles in community leadership, peace and stability are better sustained through investment in infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment rather than ceremonial expenditures.

Ogune called on the Delta State Government to reassess its spending priorities and redirect resources towards projects that have direct and measurable impact on the welfare of citizens.

He warned that continued extravagant spending without addressing pressing developmental needs could have long-term negative consequences for the state’s economic growth and social cohesion.