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Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has followed the footsteps of his predecessors by appointing his brother, Onoriode Oborevwori, as Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission (DSSC). This appointment aligns with a trend of family appointments within the commission, raising concerns among sports stakeholders in the state.
A History of Family Appointments.
The practice began under former Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, who created the commission and appointed his brother-in-law, Hon. Amaju Pinnick, as its chairman. This was continued by Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who appointed his brother, Hon. Tonobok Okowa, to the same position. Now, Governor Oborevwori has sustained this legacy with the appointment of his brother.
Stakeholder Concerns
Delta State sports stakeholders, who initially viewed Oborevwori as a governor with a fresh and progressive approach, are disillusioned by this development. Critics argue that this trend:
1. Lacks Accountability: Family appointees are perceived as being less accountable and insulated from scrutiny.
2. Hinders Meritocracy: Qualified sports administrators are overlooked in favor of family ties.
3. Weakens Sports Development: With appointees lacking sports administration experience, the long-term growth of sports in Delta State is at risk.
Captivity of Delta Sports
If this pattern continues, the Delta State Sports Commission risks becoming a personal colony for sitting governors and their families. By the end of Governor Oborevwori’s tenure, the commission will have been under family control for 24 consecutive years, leaving stakeholders feeling powerless and excluded.
A Call for Change
Delta State sports stakeholders are urged to challenge this entrenched system and demand a transparent, merit-based approach to appointments. Without accountability and competence, the growth and development of sports in the state will continue to stagnate.
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