As part of efforts to challenge the Rivers State’s entrenched political patronage system, Obio/Akpor Local Government Chairman, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, on Wednesday 3 December 2025 unveiled the OBALGA A.R.I.S.E Agenda, a comprehensive blueprint aimed at transforming the local government into a self-sustaining economic powerhouse independent of federal handouts.
Speaking at the well-attended Economic and Investment Summit held in Port Harcourt, Dr. Worlu declared: “We are tired of being rich only on paper. Obio/Akpor hosts the headquarters of oil giants, yet our people still struggle. Today we draw the line – no more waiting for Abuja allocation before we move.”
The Chairman, whose administration has faced criticism from opposition quarters over alleged over-centralisation of power, used the platform to announce far-reaching reforms: full digitalisation of revenue collection and permits, elimination of multiple taxation, massive road rehabilitation in partnership with the state government, installation of CCTV cameras for security, and the establishment of a soft-loan fund for small businesses.
In a pointed remark that elicited applause, he stated: “Visiting the council secretariat will no longer be a punishment. We are retraining our staff and removing every bottleneck that scares investors away.”
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The summit also saw the launch of the Obio/Akpor Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OBACCIMA) and the council’s digital revenue platform – initiatives analysts say could rattle existing revenue networks controlled by political godfathers.
Elder statesman Chief O.C.J. Okocha, SAN, praised the initiative but urged the chairman to carry all political tendencies along to avoid a repeat of past local government crises.
With the 2027 elections already casting long shadows, political observers describe the OBALGA A.R.I.S.E Agenda as Dr. Worlu’s early campaign document – a promise of performance over patronage in a local government long regarded as the jewel in Rivers State’s political crown.
