By Foster Akpore
The President General of Orogun Kingdom, Chief Barr. Thompson Etetakpor Opone, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to zero tolerance for the illegal collection of levies popularly called ‘deve’ within Orogun Kingdom in line with Delta State Government’s policy outlawing ‘deve’ collection.
Chief Opone emphasized that his efforts build on the solid foundation established by his predecessor, Chief Barr. Benson Ndakara. He noted that Chief Ndakara had directed the Orogun Youth President, Ovoke Oteri, and his executive team during their inauguration to enforce strict adherence to this prohibition, a directive that remains effective. Opone highlighted that such policies are essential for fostering a conducive environment for developmental projects in Orogun Kingdom.
This commitment was evident today as the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Commissioner, Hon. Sylvester Ovbije, reaffirmed his dedication to renovating the Palace of the Okpara-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, HRM Joseph Okorocha Emoghene, Osuokpa I.
Addressing newsmen during the visit, Hon. Ovbije, accompanied by the project contractor, said, “I promised to renovate the palace, and today, I am here to fulfill that promise. By next week, work will officially commence.”
Chief Opone commended Hon. Ovbije for the numerous developmental projects he has attracted to Orogun, including the Orogun Market, the renovation of the Maternity Ward, and the rehabilitation of Ossai Road. He also lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing Hon. Ovbije, whose contributions reflect the governor’s “More Agenda” for statewide development.
Hon. Ovbije expressed pride in the comprehensive infrastructure projects underway, reaffirming that work on both Osai Road and the Okpara-Uku Palace would commence simultaneously next week.
This collaborative effort highlights Chief Barr. Opone’s progressive leadership aligning Orogun Kingdom’s growth with the State Government’s development policies while eliminating illegal practices like ‘deve’ collection. This is especially crucial as the area attracts property developers with projects such as the Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Defence Space Academy, and Oil and Gas Park attracted by Senator (Sir) Ovie Omo-Agege CFR, KSJ during his tenure as Deputy President of the 9th Senate.