The Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Delta State, Deacon Kennedy Pela, has launched a new civic initiative, the Vision Better Delta Movement (VBDM), aimed at addressing perceived shortcomings in the state’s governance under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Pela unveiled the movement during a media briefing in Asaba, where he also announced the upcoming release of the third edition of his Letter to Deltans. The publication, he said, will serve as a mid-term evaluation of the Oborevwori administration, highlighting achievements, failures, and the alleged disconnect between government actions and public expectations.

He accused the state government of poor financial management, pointing to what he described as inadequate use of the N626.8 billion reportedly received by Delta in the first half of 2024—an amount he claims is the highest among Nigerian states.

“The citizens of Delta State deserve to know how state funds are spent, what achievements have been made, and who truly benefits from these allocations. Until we instill accountability in our resource management, the cycle of waste will persist,” Pela said.

He also raised concerns over transparency and debt figures, alleging the absence of accessible financial records. Insecurity in the state was another point of criticism, as Pela called for a renewed focus on the safety of lives and property.

“Governance must prioritize the protection of lives and property. We must shield the most vulnerable from harm,” he said.

Addressing Governor Oborevwori directly, Pela urged him to take decisive action during the remainder of his term.

“You have two remaining years to lead boldly, or risk being remembered for missed opportunities. Choose legacy over loyalty, reform over routine, and transparency over theatrics. The time to act is now, and the people of Delta are watching.”

Pela stressed that the VBDM is not a political party but a civic platform aimed at uniting citizens across affiliations.

“This is not a personal declaration. This is a collective civic affirmation aimed at restoring integrity in governance, rebuilding functional institutions, and unlocking inclusive prosperity across Delta State,” he said.

He called on Deltans at home and in the diaspora to join the movement, which he said would be guided by principles of “Righteousness, Harmony, and Prosperity.”