Oborevwori signs Delta 13th-month salary law and four others
- Delta governor Sheriff Oborevwori has signed five bills, including one providing a 13th-month salary for eligible public servants.
- The laws also add four High Court judges and three Customary Court of Appeal judges, and tighten property protection.
- A new revenue law aims to harmonise taxes and curb multiple taxation in the state.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday signed five bills into law, among them one that creates a 13th-month salary for eligible public servants in the state.
The signing took place at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Asaba. The governor said the package fits into the reforms he has grouped under his MORE Agenda, according to Punch and Tribune.
On the salary law, Oborevwori said it is meant to lift workers' spirits, recognise what they contribute and raise output. The outgoing Head of Service, Dr Mininim Oseji, called it a lift for workers' welfare and family life, and said it should also stir business activity in the state.
What else the new laws do
The judicial changes raise the number of High Court judges in Delta from 46 to 50, and Customary Court of Appeal judges from nine to 12. The governor said the aim is faster and more efficient delivery of justice.
Another law amends the state's protection for public and private property, with the governor saying it strengthens safeguards against unlawful occupation and destruction of property.
The Delta State Revenue Service (Consolidated) Law, 2026, is expected to bring tax administration under one roof, reduce multiple taxation and make the state easier to invest in.
Oborevwori said development is about more than roads and buildings; it also means policies that change people's lives. He asked the agencies in charge to make sure the laws are actually carried out.
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, who presented the bills, said they would strengthen governance, improve justice delivery and protect investments.
The ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Judge, Justice Tessy Diai, who was represented by Justice Briki Okolosi, and the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, represented by Justice Tracy Uriah. Deputy Speaker Arthur Akpowowo, principal officers of the Assembly, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, the Secretary to the State Government and other commissioners were also present.
What happens next
The laws now take effect, but the details that matter to workers, such as who qualifies for the 13th-month pay and when it will be paid, will depend on how the state implements the law. The revenue law will also be watched by businesses and taxpayers for whether it truly ends repeated levies.
