The Chairman of Ika South Local Government of Delta State, Jerry Ehiwarior has listed security, agriculture, environmental sanitation, road development and health care as his priorities.
According to him, the campaign against drug abuse and street trading would be intensified while workers’ welfare would be accorded due slant by his administration.
Ehiwarior disclosed this in his maiden press statement underlining his social contract with his constituents as he assumed office on Tuesday adding that the slant on security was to restore peace in the area once famous for its viable agricultural engagement.
The Chairman lamented that the high incidence of insecurity in the area, typified largely by kidnapping for ransom and killings, had forced farmers out of livelihood and entrenched fear and poverty among the people.
He stressed that the situation must not be allowed to persist, and vowed to give the situation of insecurity a potent fight.
His words, “We cannot sit back and allow criminals to control our lives. Ika South Local Government, under my watch, will find a lasting solution to this sad commentary. I will mobilize the traditional institution, community leaders, youths and all forms of security apparatus to secure our homes and farmlands.”
Ehiwarior said adequate quality attention would also be accorded road development and maintenance for which sake the Works Department would be revitalized to deliver on its mandate.
On health, he said the Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in the area would be provided basic medical and other necessities for enhanced efficiency, while environmental sanitation would be enhanced via the institution of potent committees and task forces, collaboration with waste disposal and management firms for enhanced success as well as greater enforcement of the monthly sanitation exercises and public enlightenment on the subject.
He also spoke of the intention of his administration in the agricultural sector, saying it would support farmers with grants and other subsidized inputs, as part of efforts to ensure food security in the area.
The Chairman disclosed that street trading and wrong parking of vehicles would not be tolerated, just as he pledged regular payment of staff salaries, allowances and other legitimate entitlements.
On the incidence of drug abuse in the area, he said, “We shall partner with relevant agencies to arrest this ugly and disturbing trend.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE