Delta State Deputy Governor, Barrister Kingsley Otuaro has described Kokodiagbene Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area as epitome of peace among Delta Communities.
Barr. Otuaro made the declaration during the formal opening of a coastal mega market in Kokodiagbene, Warri South-West Local Government Area, Our Senior Correspondent reports.
The Deputy Governor who spoke shortly before the commissioning of the people-driven mega project Wednesday October 26, praised the Chairman of Kokodiagbene Community, Comrade Sheriff Mulade and his executive for the initiative, urging other communities in the state to take a cue for the betterment of their people.
Barr. Otuaro who was represented by the Commissioner representing Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in DESOPADEC, Chief Favour Izuokumor assured all communities of the state government’s continued support.
In his welcome address, Chairman of Kokodiagbene Community, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, an environmentalist, disclosed that the coastal mega market cost over N20 million to rebuild into a befitting modern structure.
Comrade Sheriff Mulade making a remark
He noted that construction of the market was embarked upon in 1996 by Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, but was abandoned by the company, adding that his leadership took over the mega project and successfully completed it.
Comrade Mulade appealed to the state government, other well meaning individuals and multinational oil companies operating in the area to help the community to build more lock-up stores.
He said the coastal mega market is one of its kind in the riverine area of Delta State with 40 stores (comprising 10 lock-up stores). Ten of the stores were allotted to non-indigenes, another ten to other residents and 20 given to the host community.
Front view of the coastal mega market, Kokodiagbene
In a brief lecture titled “Community Empowerment And Sustainable Development”, Comrade Sheriff Mulade’s Model delivered by the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, he described Comrade Mulade as an achiever.
L-R: Prof. Benjamin Okaba, Chief Favour Izuokumor, Representative of Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Naira William Ogoba, Chief Julius Tonfawei , Dr. Godwin Orhadawhe (extreme right) & others
Prof. Okaba said the coastal mega market is a symbol of empowerment to people of the area.
He urged people of Kokodiagbene not to relent in their peaceful disposition, but continue to work hard in order to earn their entitlement, even as he admonished them to remain united and bring a worthy successor to sustain the development strides of Comrade Sheriff Mulade.
Cross Section of guests & community leaders of Kokodiagbene community at the coastal mega market shortly after the commissioning
Delta State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Mary Iyasere congratulated Comrade Mulade as well as the entire people of Kokodiagbene and Gbaramatu Kingdom for opening the coastal mega market.
The Commissioner represented by Mr. Opuware Stephen, remarked that the coastal market will encourage commercial activities in the area, making it more viable for potential investors to do business in the community due to its peaceful disposition.
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