The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, has reaffirmed that the primary purpose of government is the protection of lives and property, pledging that his administration will not shy away from that constitutional responsibility.
He made this known on Thursday, 9th October 2025, during the inauguration of the committees against Land Grabbing and Drug Abuse, Cultism and Other Social Vices Committee at the Council Secretariat, Rumuodumaya.
In his address, Dr. Gift Worlu reminded attendees of the promises made during his campaign to confront the common enemies of the people—drug abuse, cultism, hunger, ignorance, poverty, and land grabbing—stressing that his administration was now translating those promises into action.
“We are here today keeping to our promise, believing that those of you who have been specially selected to serve in these capacities—eminent men and women who believe that a new Obio/Akpor is possible—will give us your knowledge, your heart, and your strength,” the Chairman stated.
Speaking on land grabbing, Dr. Gift Worlu described it as a “vicious and monstrous crime” that not only destroys lives but also discourages investment and tarnishes the reputation of the local government and its people.
“Anybody involved in land grabbing is a vicious and monstrous criminal. Land grabbing drives away investment and paints our people in bad light. It has led to molestation, harassment, and even death in our communities. We must fight it because it is a dangerous enemy,” he emphasized.
The Chairman further noted that land grabbing is not limited to private individuals, acknowledging that sometimes government institutions or agents are complicit, and called for fairness and justice in handling land-related disputes.
On the issue of drug abuse and social vices, Dr. Worlu lamented the growing menace in Obio/Akpor, describing it as a “pandemic” that has ruined the lives of many young people.
“In our local government today, drug abuse has become a pandemic. It is destroying our youth—boys and girls alike. People who indulge in drugs can’t focus in school or maintain jobs; they slip into armed robbery, cultism, and other social vices. We must all join hands to tackle this problem,” he said.
He called on members of both committees to approach their duties with sincerity, integrity, and commitment, reminding them that though the council cannot monetarily reward them for the enormous task ahead, God would reward their selfless service.
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated committee members, Hon. Alex Wele, Chairman of the Land Grabbing Committee, expressed appreciation to the Council Chairman for the confidence reposed in them and vowed to deliver on the assignment.
“This is a tough job, but we will do it with diligence and sincerity. I know the Chairman is serious about tackling land grabbing, and we are ready to match his will with action. We will put our names on the line for this cause,” he declared.
Hon. Wele also urged committee members to resist compromise and internal sabotage, emphasizing the need for teamwork, confidentiality, and moral uprightness in carrying out their duties.
In his remarks, the Head of Local Government Administration, Mr. Sunny Worlu, thanked God for the successful inauguration and advised members to take their responsibilities seriously, while also urging punctuality in subsequent council activities.
“The Chairman values discipline and commitment. Please, let us always take official invitations seriously. Do your best in this new assignment, and God will help you,” he admonished.
Signed:
Office of the Chairman, Obio/Akpor LGA
October 9, 2025
