*Gov Oborevwori Praises Bozimo At 87
By Emmanuel Ogoigbe, Warri
A prominent Ijaw leader in Delta State, Chief Mulade Sheriff, has called on the State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to appoint an Ijaw academic as the next Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba,the state capital.
Chief Sheriff, who holds a PhD and is the Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient, oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the appeal citing a lack of Ijaw representation in the leadership of the state’s newer universities.
He emphasised that, despite the Ijaw community’s role in establishing such institutions, no Ijaw individual has held the position of VC or a principal office in them.
Chief Sheriff argued that there are several qualified Ijaw professors with the requisite academic integrity, administrative competence, and professionalism for the VC job.
“Ijaw members were part of the Governing Council that facilitated the establishment of these universities and contributed to the development of the University of Southern Delta,” he stated.
The activist expressed confidence that such appointment would address a perceived neglect and foster greater inclusivity, giving the Ijaw people a stronger sense of belonging within Delta State’s educational framework.
“It is imperative to call on our dynamic governor to give the Ijaw —who have been deprived from hosting any of the state universities despite our economic contributions—a sense of belonging,” Chief Sheriff added.
“The appointment of a Vice-Chancellor from Ijaw extraction would address this perceived neglect and promote representation and inclusivity in university leadership,” he stressed.
Oborevwori Hails Bozimo At 87
Meanwhile, Gov. Oborevwori has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman, renowned legal luminary, and former Minister of Police Affairs, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, as he marked his 87th birth anniversary.
Oborevwori, in a statement released in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Sir Festus Ahon, described Bozimo as a towering figure in Delta State and national politics whose life has been defined by courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service.
The Governor noted that Bozimo’s contributions span decades of distinguished service to Nigeria, particularly his impactful tenure as Minister of Police Affairs, where he brought wisdom, stability, and institutional insight to a critical sector of national security at a defining period in the country’s democratic journey.
Governor Oborevwori further commended the elder statesman for his continued relevance in Delta State affairs, highlighting his role as a respected member of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council, where his counsel, bridge-building capacity, and deep understanding of the state’s socio-political dynamics have contributed significantly to peace, unity, and inclusive governance.
According to the Governor, Bozimo’s leadership among the Ijaw people of Delta State has remained exemplary, noting that he has consistently served as a voice of moderation, dialogue, and development, earning him widespread respect across ethnic and political lines.
The Governor said: “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate our father and leader of immeasurable value, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, on the occasion of his 87th birth anniversary.
“I join his family, friends, associates, and countless admirers in thanking Almighty God for His enduring grace, protection, and strength upon his life over the past 87 years.
“It is my earnest prayer that God will continue to grant him good health, sound mind, and divine illumination, as he remains steadfast in his lifelong commitment to service, peace-building, and the advancement of humanity and nation-building.”
Governor Oborevwori wished the elder statesman many more years of fulfillment, wisdom, and impactful contributions to Delta State and Nigeria.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Chief Sheriff.
