ASABA — The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in Delta State, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has called on Deltans to critically reassess the state’s political leadership ahead of the 2027 governorship election, alleging that political cabals have dominated the state’s affairs since 1999.
Eshor expressed concern over what he described as a disconnect between the state’s substantial revenue profile and the level of development experienced by residents across urban and rural communities.
He argued that Delta State, endowed with abundant natural resources and significant public revenue, should demonstrate more visible progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, electricity, water supply and other essential services.
The AAC candidate questioned the condition of infrastructure in Asaba, the state capital, as well as other major urban centres, including Warri, Sapele, Ughelli and Agbor.
He also expressed concern over the pace of development within the Asaba capital territory, comprising Asaba, Ibusa, Okpanam and Issele-Azagba, arguing that the area should reflect the development standards expected of a state capital and its surrounding communities.
“Can we honestly compare the state of development in our capital territory with what obtains in other state capitals across Nigeria? The answer, in my view, is no,” Eshor said.
He maintained that the condition of roads and other public infrastructure in parts of the state raises questions about the priorities of successive administrations and the management of public resources.
According to him, several rural communities continue to face inadequate road networks and limited infrastructure, challenges he said affect agriculture, commerce and other economic activities.
Eshor further raised concerns about the education and healthcare sectors, citing what he described as inadequate facilities, infrastructure deficits and concerns over teachers’ welfare.
He identified reliable electricity, potable water and efficient transportation as critical areas requiring greater attention, stressing that development should not be measured solely by the construction of prominent urban projects.
Questions Over Revenue and Infrastructure Spending
On public expenditure, Eshor cited figures suggesting that Delta State had received more than ₦4.219 trillion in federal allocations and internally generated revenue since 2023.
He questioned whether the scale of development visible across the state adequately reflected the reported revenue inflows, calling for greater transparency in public spending and project implementation.
The AAC candidate also questioned the cost of the five flyovers frequently referenced in discussions about infrastructure development in the state, putting their combined cost at an estimated ₦177 billion.
However, the figures cited by Eshor, including the reported revenue total and flyover expenditure, require independent verification against official budget, revenue and project records.
Eshor argued that while major road and bridge projects could contribute to urban development, the government should also prioritise public schools, healthcare facilities, rural roads, water supply and other services that directly affect the daily lives of residents.
He called for a governance model that would ensure a more balanced distribution of development projects and public investments across the state.
The AAC governorship candidate urged Deltans to assess political officeholders based on their records, public service delivery and the measurable impact of government policies on citizens.
Delta State has enormous potential, but our people deserve to see that potential translated into better roads, functional schools, accessible healthcare, reliable water supply and economic opportunities. We cannot continue to celebrate revenue without asking what the people are getting in return, he said.
He maintained that the 2027 governorship election would provide an opportunity for residents to examine competing governance proposals and determine the priorities they expect from the next administration.
Eshor also urged young people, professionals, traders, farmers and community leaders to participate actively in the democratic process and demand accountability from those seeking public office.
He advocated stronger public institutions, transparent financial management, productive investments and sustained rural development, arguing that public resources should be directed towards projects that address the most pressing needs of communities across Delta State.
The AAC candidate concluded that the central issue for Deltans should be whether the state’s substantial resources are translating into tangible improvements in living standards, public services and economic opportunities.
2027: Eshor Media Team
