Okowa congratulates Buhari at 80

Vice Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his 80th birth anniversary.

Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba extended the goodwill of the government and people of the state to the President on the landmark anniversary, saying God had been faithful.

The governor used the opportunity to commend Buhari for the completion of the second Niger Bridge, and remarked that it was a demonstration of "political will and statesmanship"

He said “as you clock 80 today, I heartily rejoice with you and your family on behalf of the Government and people of Delta.

"Let me on behalf of our people commend you for the completion of the second Niger Bridge, an audacious project that was long overdue.

“Your administration has provided support to states and local governments through interventions and refunds to mitigate the myriad of economic challenges faced by the two tiers of government.

“As you celebrate this year’s anniversary, it is my prayer and that of Deltans that God will continue to grant you good health and wisdom to finish strong as your administration winds down.

“On this auspicious occasion, I join your family, friends and other Nigerians to thank Almighty God for granting you a life of great accomplishments and service to mankind.”

Okowa signs 2023 Appropriation Bill of N571.6bn

Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday in Asaba, signed the state’s 2023 Appropriation Bill of N571.64 billion.

The budget, which is the last to be signed by Okowa as Governor of the state, comprises N235.5 billion for recurrent expenditure and N336.1billion as capital expenditure.

The governor also signed assented to nine other Bills - The Delta State Manufacturing and Use of Cotonou Boats Bill, 2022; Delta State Public Finance Management Bill, 2022; Delta State HIV/AIDs Anti-discrimination, Prevention and Protection Bill, 2022; Delta State Waterways Tax, Control and Licensing of Boats (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2022.

Others are Delta State Forfeiture of Property Bill, 2022; Delta State Maternal and Perinatal Deaths Surveillance and Response Bill, 2020; Delta State Passenger Welfare Scheme Repeal Bill, 2022; Delta State Administrative Procedure Bill, 2022 and the Delta State Transportation Data Management Bill, 2022.

In his remarks after signing the Bills, Okowa assured Deltans that the state would strive to implement capital projects embedded in the 2023 Budget as well as endeavour to complete ongoing projects before the end of his tenure.

He commended the House of Assembly for its cooperation over the years, adding that his administration couldn't have achieved the much it did without the strong support of the Assembly and Deltans.

"To have found time to work through these bills in spite of the electoral campaigns shows that you have stayed committed to our people who voted you into office.

"We will continue to remember you in the course of history because a lot has been done over the past seven and half years during which we have truly impacted on our people.

"We could have done better if we had a better security because we need a secured country for us to be able to impact more meaningfully to the people.

"But under the circumstances we have found ourselves, working with our people we have delivered the dividends of democracy to the best of our ability.

"Until May 28, 2023, we will remain functional and continue to impact on the lives of our people, including the youths to make them get entrepreneurial skills that will ultimately make them self-reliant," Okowa stated.

On the other Bills signed into law, he said they would contribute to the socio-economic development of the state and thanked the lawnakers for their commitment to duty.

Presenting the Bills earlier, the Speaker of the Assembly, Chief Sherrif Oborevwori, said that the Bills went through all legislative process before being passed.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor and members of the House for their support and cooperation over the years he served as the longest serving Speaker of the House of Assembly.

"I wish to express our profound gratitude to you for the cordial working relationship and synergy existing between the House and the Executive.

"This has not only brought stability to the House but also prosperity to Deltans and development across the State.

"God has indeed been gracious to Delta State and the House of Assembly in particular. We have enjoyed peace and harmony which have resulted in the excellent working relationship among the members.

"As you remarked during the presentation of the 2023 Budget on the floor of the House that this is the last Budget you will be laying before the honourable House, this will also be the last Budget I will be presenting to His Excellency, the Governor for assent as a Speaker of the House of Assembly," Oborevwori stated.

https://businessday.ng/amp/news/article/okowa-signs-2023-appropriation-bill-of-n571-64bn/

PRESS RELEASE

14th December, 2022

THERE IS NO IMPUNITY IN DELTA PDP, WE ARE ONE FAMILY

The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has reiterated the fact that there is no impunity in the Party, and PDP is one big, united family as was demonstrated in the recently concluded and hugely successful, comprehensive Ward-to-Ward Campaigns across the 270 Wards in the State.

This affirmation was contained in a statement by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary of Delta State PDP, while reacting to several contrary opinions on the unity of the party, including an earlier Press Release titled: "THERE MUST BE AN END TO IMPUNITY IN PDP DELTA STATE", signed by Chief Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie (Solicitor of England and Wales/Barrister & Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria).

Describing the Press Release as totally misleading, divisive, and an unnecessary diversion at a time when the party is fully settled and focused, after embarking on the well-received campaigns across the Wards and is now fully prepared and poised to commence its Local Government Campaigns for the 2023 elections, the Delta PDP Press Release reads:

"Our attention has been drawn to a totally misleading and divisive Press Release titled: 'THERE MUST BE AN END TO IMPUNITY IN PDP DELTA STATE', signed by Chief Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie (Solicitor of England and Wales/Barrister & Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria), an erstwhile PDP Governorship aspirant in our last primary election.

"While we are mindful of the fact that he has, by his own admission, already approached the Court over a completely different matter which has no bearing whatsoever on the internal affairs of our party, we hereby inform and assure Chief, Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie, that we are fully and unambiguously satisfied with the judgment of the Supreme Court on the authentic Governorship candidate of our party for the 2023 elections, and so do not wish to join issues with him, or anyone else, over some of the sensitive legal assumptions, as well as the other spurious and baseless allegations, he boldly asserted in his Press Release.

"However, as a very responsible and law-abiding political party, guided always by the provisions and tenets stipulated clearly in our party's Constitution, we want to state categorically that we take very strong exception to his statement that: 'The PDP State Party machinery rigged the process of “electing” these purported delegates in favour of the sitting Governor'. The Party ensured that no delegate election took place across the State. The Governor, through his lackeys, selected the entire 835 Delegates and wore the sham/illegal process, the garb of a legal election.'

"In the same vein, we would also commend Chief Ikie for highlighting the appropriate sections of our Electoral Guidelines and Constitution which were the grundnorm on which the elections of the 3-Man AD-HOC Delegates for the PDP Primaries were conducted.

"We are glad to note, without any prejudice whatsoever, that with the exception of a few infinitesimal complaints which were to be expected, since no system or human process is completely infallible, the congresses to elect our ad-hoc delegates was hugely successful across the Wards and LGAs in the State and were widely reported on all media platforms.

"Let us also remind Chief Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie and others who may still be nursing such hallucinations, that our Party's ad-hoc delegates were neither robots, puppets nor mannequins and since lobbying and competition for votes are two of the important hallmarks in a proper democratic contest, it is only natural that delegates will have choices, especially since our party provided a level playing field for all aspirants, who are qualified to contest at the primaries to have unhindered and unfettered access to all the delegates.

"We are proud to state without any equivocation that our Governorship Primary was not only free, fair, and transparent, it was also an exemplary reflection of what a proper democratic exercise, conducted in the true spirit of freedom of choice, where all aspirants got votes and since again, elections are about numbers, the aspirant with the highest number of votes emerged as the authentic candidate of our party by majority votes and was duly recognized as the Party's Guber flagbearer for the 2023 Elections.

"This point is incontrovertible and the fact that we conducted a free, fair, and transparent Governorship Primary has neither been challenged nor invalidated.

"It is against this crystal clear backdrop, complemented by the final and decisive Supreme Court pronouncement on the authentic Delta PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, that we wonder with some interest at the motive(s) behind the statement and actions of Chief Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie and his ilk, which we see as diversionary, reactionary and aimed dubiously at creating an unnecessary diversion at this auspicious time when the party has fully settled and has set up the formidable structures for our comprehensive campaigns, which have already conducted and successfully delivered our Ward-to-Ward campaigns, ahead of the 2023 general elections.

"We deem it superfluous and quite gratuitous that someone who claims to have nursed the aspiration for the Governorship ticket of our great party, should exhibit such joyless, unenthusiastic acrimony at this time, when the clarion call of all true, loyal, and committed members of our party, fully buoyed by cheerful exhilaration of the Supreme Court Judgment, is that we should all come together as one family, united with the sense of purpose towards winning the 2023 general elections in a 5/5 clean sweep.

"Let us state explicitly and unconditionally that, as a political party which believes and upholds the sacrosanctity of the rule of law, we are always prepared to submit to due process in the adjudication of contentions, and it is in that light, that we acknowledge and respect the decision of Chief Barrister Aghwarianovwe Novwe Ikie.

"We will however not be deterred or discouraged in our strident call and appeal to all party members, irrespective of their dispositions, to come together, now that our road to victory in 2023, has become clearer and smoother with the Supreme Court Judgment and overwhelming success of our Ward-to-Ward Campaigns.

"We will not relent in our concerted efforts to continue to reach out to all our members with the simple, yet powerful message that we are one united family and we are stronger, more dominant, and persuasive in our quest for an all-round landslide victory, working together as one big happy family.

Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta.

PDP! Power to the People!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State, and
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council.

2023: Nigerians will rejoice again, Okowa assures

Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Wednesday assured Nigerians that they would rejoice again as the nation would overcome its present travails after 2023 general elections.

Okowa gave the assurance at the 2022 Annual Convention and Christmas Concert of Christ Holy Church International, Asaba, with "Immanuel" as theme, and urged Nigerians to pray to God who alone could turn situations around for the good of the people.

He said that the sufferings of today would definitely pass away and a new life would come for Nigerians, adding that "rather than grumble and blame people, spend the time to pray to our God because He alone can turn things around.

"But, God alone who had allowed us to pass through the last seven years there is a lesson to be learnt from this."

The governor, who took the only lesson of the occasion, said that the Christian faith was nourished daily by the word of God and expressed belief that the people were gathered to nourish their faith through the word of God.

"The convention is for us to be enriched such that when we leave for our various homes, we would have been assured that our lives have been affected positively.

"As Christians, we all know that God always want to be with us. But the question is, are we ready to be with God?

"The benefit of Christian life is to allow God to be with us and dwell in our lives and as children of faith we can do nothing without Jesus so we must struggle daily to abide in Jesus," he said.

The PDP Presidential running mate said that Nigeria was facing challenging times which required the people to go into self-retrospection.

He stated that a very challenging period was prevailing in the country and that people were wondering if this was the Nigeria of their dream.

Okowa said "this, certainly is not the Nigeria of our dream; so, what do we do in this time? It is to call on the name of our God to touch the lives of our people so that we will do His will.

"These are interesting times for politics and politicians because as we talk to the people it is only God that knows our hearts and He alone knows those He has prepared to lead at this time.

"Our people must be prayerful and watchful so that God will truly lead us as a church and as a people so that we don't act with the trauma of the times."

In his sermon, President, Christian Association of Nigeria and General Superintendent, Christ Holy Church International, Most Rev. Daniel Okoh, said that the theme of the convention, "Immanuel", was an assurance that God was always with the people.

He said that God did not abandon His creation, adding that Nigeria would not break because God was with the country.

"The coming election will not break Nigeria. As a matter of fact, 2023 is the year of golden opportunity for Nigeria. 2023 is year of opportunity to elect leaders who will turn around the fortunes of Nigeria.

"God has already chosen those who will lead the people come 2023 and since God is interested in the government and the economy of men, then the people should be involved because God will use people to turn things around for the country.

"Do not be afraid because we have God who dwells among us to chose our leaders and watch over them and to hold them accountable," the cleric stated.

The CAN President condemned those attacking INEC offices and urged Nigerians to be prepared to vote for the candidates of their choice to lead the country out of its present travails.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/12/2023-nigerians-will-rejoice-again-okowa-assures/amp/

Medical Officers’ Brain Drain: Okowa, Enabulele proffer solution

Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and President of World Medical Association, Dr Osahon Enabulele, have said that improvement on emolument and working environment would reverse the preponderance of brain-drain of medical personnel from the country.

They made this known in their separate remarks at the opening of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) National Executive Council Meeting and Leadership Retreat in Asaba, on Wednesday.

They expressed optimism that resolutions from the NEC meeting, with the theme "Doctors and Effective Leadership in the Health Sector" would also proffer more solutions to resolving the issue and others plaguing the medical profession and healthcare delivery.

Reacting to the request for replacement of medical workers who left for greener pastures abroad, Okowa said he had given approval to fill the vacancies.

According to him, it is painful that people are leaving the country due to poor conditions. We cannot stop them, but the vacancies created by such exits should be filled; I have given the approval that they should be replaced so that we don't over-labour those left behind.

"I have long given approval to the Commissioner for Health that all doctors and medical professionals who exits the services of the state should be replaced immediately.

"No doubt, the economic fortunes of a nation are closely intertwined with the status of the health of its people. But, to remain economically buoyant as a nation, we have to ensure that our health sector is not plagued with daunting challenges.

"Although we have achieved some milestones in health as a nation, the healthcare system of our country is beset with the current problem of brain-drain.

"It is worrisome that our medical doctors who are expected to provide care for those who are ill among us, are leaving the shores of our country in droves.

"I feel this is a very key issue facing us as a nation and we should look into ways of stemming this ugly tide as we will continue to lose our medical professionals to other countries abroad if urgent measures are not adopted.

"It is a national challenge, which demands the collective attention of all, and among other reasons, is especially the desire to earn more money. There are also some complaints about the working environment and inadequate equipment," he said.

Okowa said that his administration had built new hospitals and provided modern hospital equipment to meet with current realities.

"In Delta State, we have tried to tackle some of these challenges by carrying out extensive renovations of most of our health facilities in all the three tiers of government
across the State.


"In addition, we have largely replaced old, worn-out and obsolete medical equipment with new ones in virtually all the health facilities in the State.

"We have also built new hospitals; an example is Asaba Specialist Hospital, which is providing tertiary-level services in the State, including the Delta State University Teaching Hospital at Oghara. Others include the Advanced Diagnostics Medical Centre and Mother and Child Centre in Owa-Alero.

"Their medical equipment are state-of-the-art and these facilities will also serve as referral centres providing tertiary-level health services in the State and indeed, the entire country.

"They have been provided with all necessary amenities, including a very conducive environment and attractive working conditions for staff.

"I am proud to add that Delta State is one of the very few in the Federation to domesticate the Medical Residency Training Act of 2017 in all our health institutions where residency training is being done," he stated.

On his part, Dr Enabulele said that there was a need to have effective leadership that would address the myriad of issues confronting the health sector in the country.

He called for concerted efforts to address the issue of brain drain, saying "we must ensure that we walk the talk in terms of leadership."



Enabulele described Governor Okowa as an exemplar of good leadership, and wished that the medical profession and Nigeria had more persons like him.

Chairman of the occasion, Professor Sam Oyovbaire, recalled the role of the NMA in the past and urged them to wake up and contribute their best to rebuild the nation's health sector.

He commended Governor Okowa for his impact in the health sector of the state, especially with the state’s contributory health insurance scheme.

In his address, the President of the association, Dr. Uche Ojinmah, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and some state governments, including Delta, for paying the new hazard allowance, adding that the Delta blazed the trail in paying the new allowance and many others.

Ojinmah called on other state governments in the country that were yet to commence payment of the allowance to do so to maintain industrial harmony in their health care sectors.

According to him, the quest for the long overdue upward review of CONMESS has been reinvigorated and shall not wane until the goal is achieved.



The NMA boss stressed that the grief of the long-suffering Nigerian doctor must meet a relief quickly to avert a total acquisition of escape velocity also known as 'Japa'.

He said the NMA was passing through a lot of turbulence as a result of loss of standards and derision of merit in the society, and urged members to be of good cheer in the discharge of their duties.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of NMA in Delta, Dr. Carter Okolakpa, had expressed appreciation to Governor Okowa for the immense support his administration had offered the association.

Okolakpa appealed to the governor to declare an emergency on the replacement of medical doctors and other healthcare workers who had left the service of the state.

This, he said, would reduce the stress the doctors and health workers were passing through due to manpower shortage.

In his remarks, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Chike Edozien, who was represented by Chief Chris Chukwurah, called for a strong leadership in the country that would address the challenges be-devilling all sectors of the nation, adding that the problem in the country was failure of government to implement well-articulated policies and programmes.

The Asagba, who is a medical doctor, wished participants fruitful deliberations.

During the ceremony, Prof. Clement Osime of the University of Benin, who delivered a lecture titled "Doctors and Effective Leadership in the Health Sector," stressed the need for medical practitioners to put in their best in the discharge of their duties.

He also tasked the medical doctors on leadership, saying it was important for them to be good leaders so as to be good mentors and motivators.

PRESS RELEASE

10TH DECEMBER, 2022

Delta APC: Life Cycle Of Lies, Illusion And Delusion

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has dismissed as cant, the story by the camp of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) that claims falsely in its headline that “Crisis in Delta PDP, as party excos, unit leaders, canvassers, dumps (sic) party.”

While treating the online publication with disdain, PDP in a Press Release signed by the Deputy Director, Media and Publicity Committee, PDP Campaign Council, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza said that the claim that Delta State PDP is in crisis confirms the persistent disinformation embarked on by the clueless APC even in the face of strong contradictory evidence, proves the opposition party and those behind the propaganda as possessing symptom of a psychiatric condition.

It’s inconceivable that anyone, will against all caution imposed by the ambiance of peace and calm that pervades the PDP across Delta State prefer to live in delusion by claiming and wanting the good and right-thinking people of the State to believe the deception that “Peoples Democratic Party in Delta State has been thrown into further crisis as party executives, unit leaders, party canvassers.”

Urging Deltans to ignore the APC lies and figment of its imagination, PDP said there’s no iota of truth in the APC story, but propaganda with the intention to trick the unwary to believe something that does not correspond with the known and observable fact.

The observable fact is that PDP in Delta State is united; it is in peace and working hard collectively across the State to ensure that all its candidates across board win the 2023 elections with massive votes. The party that has just concluded the arduous runs when its campaign trains cruised through all the Wards in the State, selling its candidates and evangelizing for the people’s votes in an atmosphere that was devoid of rancour cannot be the same party that APC wants people to believe is a party in crisis.

Indeed, all the party leaders, chieftains, followers, and supporters received the campaign train with fanfare, turning the Ward campaigns into carnivals even as the candidates were introduced to the people on each occasion. Besides, many former members of the APC dumped the party, made bonfires of the broom, the party’s symbol, and were received into the PDP.

At the PDP Ward campaigns, APC was exposed and likened to the ‘expired bad drug” that Nigerians must avoid like the leper. It has even been said severally that those who will vote for APC will define the number of mad people in Nigeria. Is it the party with this type of profile and perception that Deltans want to go with?

It is no news, therefore, that APC is Nigeria’s Achilles heel, and has been rejected. In Delta State, our Governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is riding high, and with his M.O.R.E. agenda, he is set to deliver to Deltans a State where love, peace, prosperity for all is the principal focus.

PDP therefore, calls on Deltans to ignore the APC cycle of lies, illusion, and delusion.

PDP All-The-Way!

PDP! Power to the people!!


Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.

Why Nigerians will sack APC in 2023 - Delta PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State says it was optimistic Nigerians would vote out the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections because the country had retrogressed in all indices since they took over from the PDP in 2015.

Chairman of the PDP in Delta South Senatorial District, Chief Julius Takeme stated this while addressing party faithful at its ward-to-ward campaign rally at Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state.

He said that with rising hunger, poverty and insecurity in the country, Nigerians were desirous to send the ruling APC packing and urged members of the party to remain united ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The party boss said Nigerians have resolved to sack the APC on account of the negative change brought by the lacklustre President Muhammadu Buhari administration and usher in the experienced duo of PDP's Atiku Abubakar and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa to rescue, reset, rebuild and return the country to its glory days.

Also speaking, former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor commended the people for their support over the years and urged them to remain committed to the party.

He said that since 1999, the PDP in the state had laid good foundation for successive administrations to build on and called on the people to vote for all candidates of the party.

The federal lawmaker appealed to aggrieved members of the party to sheathe their sword and work assiduously for the party's victory.

The campaign train which also visited Oyede, Okpe-Isoko, Ofagbe and Ellu Wards, had in attendance former PDP National Vice Chairman, Elder Emmanuel Ogidi; member representing Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi; Senatorial candidate of the party Hon. Michael Diden; House of Representatives candidate Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko; Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly Hon. Ferguson Onwo; the House of Assembly candidate, Barr. Bernard Odior.

Others include Commissioner for Energy, Chief Fred Obe, DESOPADEC Commissioner Dr Paul Oweh; Coordinator of the Isoko North PDP Campaign Council Dr Emmanuel Okoro, Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Iteire and Chairman PDP Isoko North Chapter, Prince Godwin Ogorugba among others.

2023: Atiku, Okowa will resolve Nigeria’s challenges - Uduaghan

Former Delta Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has urged the people of the state to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential ticket of Atiku Abubakar and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, saying the duo will rescue, reset and rebuild Nigeria from its current travails.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of party faithful at Owhelogbo, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state, Uduaghan said that for the first time in history, a Deltan would be Vice President of the country if the people vote for the party’s ticket.

The former governor called on the people to vote for all other candidates of the party from Sheriff Oborevwori for Governor, Michael Diden for Senate, Jonathan Ukodhiko for House of Representatives and Bernard Odior for House of Assembly.

"This is the first time we are having a Vice presidential candidate from our state, so I urge you all to vote Atiku-Okowa ticket so that our dear Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa will become the first Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from Delta State.

"Let's vote for all our PDP candidates because they are proven men and women of integrity and they have the capacity to resolve all our nation's challenges.

"My administration did a lot for Owhelogbo and other Isoko communities and l know the present Okowa administration is also doing a lot here, so if you vote PDP again you will get more," the former governor assured.

On his part, State Chairman of the party, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso said the people have every reason to vote out the APC led Federal Government because of the growing poverty, insecurity and economic downturn of the country.

Esiso said the people were tired of rising hunger and starvation and urged them to come out enmasse on election day to vote for all candidates of the party.

The campaign train which also visited Otor-Igho, Otor-Owhe, Emevor, Oghara-Iyede and Otor-Iyede had in attendance Delta South Chairman of the party, Chief Julius Takeme; Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi.

Others are Commissioner for Energy, Chief Fred Obe; MD/CEO DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Commissioner DESOPADEC Dr Paul Oweh, Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Iteire; Chairman Isoko North PDP Prince Godwin Ogorugba, Director-General isoko North PDP Campaign Council, Dr Emmanuel Okoro, among others.

Chief Joe Omene Exposes Real Omo-Agege, Describes Him As Greedy, Self-Centred, Betrayer, Worst Delta Politician Ever.

By Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.

We have always known that Delta APC Gubernatorial candidate and Deputy Senate President, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, is not the sanctimonious, squeaky clean, Knight in shiny Armour saviour, his obsequious loyalists and some of those selected smiling photographs on social media and Google images portray.

But we had refrained from deconstructing him at a personal level since we are not a political party that succumbs to low, dirty personality propaganda and hoped that one day, someone very close to him would do us the favour of presenting him the way he really is.

Today, the chickens have finally come home to roost as Chief Joe Omene, a great leader, elder statesman, and former President General of the Urhobo Progressives Union, UPU, has literally exposed and derobed Omo-Agege, leaving him bare to tan in the harsh electoral harmattan season of Delta's political landscape.

A recent 6 minutes, 57 seconds trending video, posted on Social media by RERO TV, left no one in doubt about Omo-Agege, as High Chief Joe Omene, took the Deputy Senate President to the cleaners, in a caustic, unsympathetic, and forthrightly authoritative, sage-like baritone, which tore the reputation, personality and integrity of the Delta State APC Gubernatorial Candidate to shreds.

Hear him: "The Omo-Agege you're seeing, just think of any politician from Urhobo, he's the worst. He's a very greedy man, self-centred, and everyday, when I see him criticize Governor Okowa in the papers I just laugh. Assuming he becomes Governor, he will be far worse.

"He is also a betrayer. Just look at the people he started working with, he has betrayed all of them," the distinguished Urhobo leader declared.

This was just the first salvo in a steady six minutes profiling of Omo-Agege, which is better heard than reported, except to hint that Chief Omene went on to give a graphic and detailed commentary of how the Delta APC Guber candidate betrayed former Governor, Chief James Ibori, who brought him into Government from the United States and gave him top positions like SSG and Commissioner Special Duties, only to be betrayed because Omo-Agege did not get the Governorship ticket.

Chief Omene revealed how Omo-Agege betrayed Chief Great Ogboru, who was instrumental in ensuring the two Senate tenures he's now enjoying and even the UPU, which stood as guarantor for his Senatorial ambition as Deputy Senate President, only for him to deviously embark on a divide and rule regime as the highest political office holder in Delta Central and Urhoboland, in order to exploit the division in Delta Central political structure, for his own selfish ambition.

He even called those who endorsed him for the position of Deputy Senate President "insurgents", after he had secured the position. Hear Chief Omene again: "We endorsed him without any preconditions and even wrote to President Buhari as the umbrella body of Urhobo ethnic nation, but he later called us insurgents after he had got the position.

"He called us insurgents, but when we were endorsing him we were not insurgents o. After endorsing him and getting what he wants we became insurgents. How can a lawyer say something like that about people who were in Court? It's not proper for a lawyer."

Shedding light on Omo-Agege's clannish development agenda, Chief Omene had this to say: "You're the Senate President (sic). As the (Deputy) Senate President he brought Law School, where did he site it? Orogun! He brought Polytechnic, where did he site it? Orogun! He brought so many other things, where did he site them? Orogun! He didn't site anyone in any other part of Urhoboland. No ooo.

"That will tell you the kind of person he will be, assuming some people vote for him foolishly to become Governor. He does not have the overall interest of Urhobo," the great Urhobo elder statesman said unflinchingly.

Delta PDP has never had any doubts about the Chameleonic nature of Ovie Omo-Agege. He was once a member of our great party and the circumstances under which he left the party were less than noble, disturbingly dishonourable, acrimoniously petty, and uncharitably rancourous, as he fermented all manner of disharmony within party ranks in his selfish quest to overturn an already accepted zoning arrangement, because of his "emi lo kan" mentality, just like his Presidential candidate in APC.

Chief Joe Omene has done Deltans a great service by exposing the real Ovie Omo-Agege to the world and we are quite gratified by this honest revelation. We have also been vindicated in our unwavering position that even in his own community and so-called stronghold, Ovie Omo-Agege already has major trust, personality, and integrity issues and the initial effervescence of his emergence which is fast fading, will continue to dissipate and evaporate rapidly, as the 2023 election draws ever closer.

© Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza is the State Publicity Secretary, PDP, Delta State & Deputy Director, Media, and Publicity Committee, PDP Campaign Council.

PRESS RELEASE

5th December, 2022

TONY NWAKA'S JOURNEY IN VAINGLORY AND PRIDE THAT PRECEDES THE FALL

The attention of the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council has been called to the effusions by one Tony Nwaka, Ph.D, the candidate of the feeble and futile All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking to represent the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency in the House of Representatives in 2023.

A statement by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Deputy Director, Media, and Publicity Committee, Delta State PDP Campaign Council stated that the party would have ignored the childishly silly and excessive boastfulness of Tony Nwaka about his personal abilities and achievements, but thought it necessary to respond for the sake of those who may have been taken in by the error and false presentation.

The intervention is also to deflate the puerile assertions and invectives thrown against the person of Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, the effective Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, the pride of Aniocha/Oshimili and PDP in the Green Chambers, and the party’s candidate for Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in the 2023 elections.

It is important to let Tony Nwaka know that nobody is against his right to seek to contest for the election to represent the people of Aniocha/Oshimili in the House of Representatives. Of course, he is already the candidate of the lackluster and wicked APC, otherwise referred to as the proverbial ‘Bad Drug” that has thrown this nation into negativities in all ramifications from which the PDP seeks to rescue and reset Nigeria. But we ask him to go out there and campaign, rather than indulge in an exercise of vainglory, deceptively woven to goodwill the people.

The Delta PDP calls on Tony Nwaka to back down from his high horse of futile academic exercise that is not a prerequisite for winning elections. It is mindless of him to want to destroy Ndudi Elumelu, whose good works remain sweet-smelling savour before the good people of Aniocha/Oshimili by pandering to base and irresponsible sentiments.

Which ideas does Tony Nwaka of APC have that he wants to offer? Is it the idea of one from a political party that has been acknowledged by Nigerians and Deltans in particular, as a party of liars and political deceits? Or is it an idea of one from a political party that has set Nigeria on a downward spin? Where was Tony Nwaka when his ruling party unsettled the good people of Nigeria by afflicting them with poverty, so much so that the nation has now become the poverty capital of the world? Through unmitigated cluelessness, the economic prosperity of Nigeria has been thrown overboard by the APC Federal Government, and here is someone claiming he has ideas to give to the people of Aniocha/Oshimili when he could not give his ill-informed party the idea to stimulate this country and put her on the path of economic growth?

Let’s ask Tony Nwaka what idea has he given to his ruling party to ease the insecurity situation in the country, as well as make the farms less harmful a place to go to by farmers?

Nigerians have rejected APC and all its candidates, beginning with the sick Presidential candidate, Tony Nwaka for their cluelessness. So, have the good people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency rejected Tony Nwaka.

For the good people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, the PDP candidate for the 2023 election, like the good wine, he does not need to be bushed. His antecedents in good representation over the years, with tangible and verifiable results speaks volumes about his acceptability by the people.

Tony Nwaka should not seek to hypnotize the people with his unproductive sweet tongue; we challenge him to go to the polls, where Ndudi Elumelu, his Achilles' heel is waiting to give him a resounding defeat and fall.

PDP! Power to the people!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director/Secretary,
Media and Publicity Committee,
Delta State PDP Campaign Council.

Oborevwori attends UPU Annual Thanksgiving Service, Ese Gam becomes Union PG.

By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe

Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly and governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, was among illustrious sons and daughters of Urhobo nation who attended the annual thanksgiving service of Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, on Sunday at Urhobo House, Uvbiamuge in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

While exchanging pleasantries with the new President General of the apex sociocultural organisation, Chief Barr Ese Gam, Oborevwori congratulated him and his executives.

Delivering his homily, Archbishop Goddowell Avwomakpa of Christ Missionaries Crusaders Church, appealed to all sons and daughters of Urhobo nation, home and abroad, to be united and work for the attainment of Urhobo common interests at all times.

He noted that for Urhobo to make significant progress, all hands must be on deck to keep alive the great vision of the founding fathers of Urhobo Progress Union.

The highly respected Clergy urged the new leadership of UPU to ask God for Wisdom, so as to excell in their assigned responsibilities, noting that Urhobo nation is gradually waxing cold because of disunity among leaders.

He appealed to UPU PG, Chief Barr Ese Gam and his executives to work very hard to place Urhobo nation in her proper position in state, national and international scheme of things.

"Urhobo need to do more to become powerful politically, relevant in business and other aspects of human endeavours. We need more successful Urhobo sons and daughters to make us occupy the right position in the nation's affairs.

"We must put away bitterness and rancour from amongst us and be focused on our collective goals for the greatness and advancement of Urhobo nation. There is the need to raise new and successful leaders, and the time is now.

"The first thing for us to do is to draw nearer to God, and cast our cares upon Him, because He alone can direct us alright to accomplish individual and collective goals.

"I Congratulate the new executives of UPU, especially our President General, Chief Barr Ese Gam. Let's support him and the new team to succeed," Awomakpa said

UPU PG, Barr Gam assured Urhobo nation that he will immediately hit the ground running, reconcile all aggrieved parties, focus on goals of his administration and to raise the stake higher for Urhobo nation.

"There is so much work to be done and I need the assistance and cooperation of our traditional rulers, well meaning Urhobo sons and daughters, home and abroad, to succeed.

"On my part, I will ensure purposeful leadership devoid of acrimony. We are brothers and sisters, and it's important that we focus on the development and socioeconomic advancement of Urhobo nation at all times," Gam Said.

Personalities in attendance includes; the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the incoming governor of Delta State and Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta Central Senatorial candidate of PDP, Senator Chief Ighoyota Amori, immediate past President General of UPU, Chief Moses Taiga, Olorogun Goddie Ibru, royal fathers, clergyman and people from all walks of life.

UDUAGHAN HOSTS BURUTU PDP

His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, the Immediate Past Governor of Delta and Chieftain of the party earlier today hosted leaders and party faithful from Burutu LGA at his GRA Warri residence as part of his peace move to reconcile aggrieved members of the PDP ahead of the 2023 general elections.

While addressing the gathering Dr. Uduaghan used his humble political journey as an illustration that God can pick anybody despite our preferences to fill in any position. He agreed that qualification can give an advantage but it is not the only determinant because all power belongs to God.

Admittedly, the former Governor said it is always painful when one loses a contest but the reality is that there are always winners and losers in every contest. He maintained that the attitude of the winners can make all the differences - either preventing people from leaving a party or further causing polarization as is evident in the many fallouts from the party primaries. But he assured that before the elections, the big PDP family will be united because there has been progress in the peace moves across the state.

He tasked all those who clinched party tickets across all levels to reach out to their opponents, admonishing that a simple phone call or visit will calm aggrieved hearts because everyone spent money.

The leader of Delta South also used the opportunity to appeal to all those aggrieved not to leave or work against the party assuring that the position might reach them in the next contest because politics is a very slippery venture.

L. Monoyo Edon,
Media Assistant to His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON

2023: Don't be deceived by fake promises, Okowa tells Nigerians

Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on Nigerians to be prayerful and watchful in order not to be swayed by politicians with fake promises.

He said that with the 2023 general elections a few months away, some politicians had started making empty and unrealistic promises to Nigerians as was the case in 2015.

Okowa made the call at the Thanksgiving Service to mark the end of the Annual Convention of Pasture of Life Ministries International, Asaba.

He said that the task to rebuild Nigeria was herculean, but pointed out that many people aspiring to lead the country did not understand the enormity of the problem facing the nation.

According to him, the times we are in Nigeria is very difficult and many persons want to make it look like its very easy to rebuild Nigeria, that will be deceitful of any man to say so.

"We were deceived in 2015 at the campaigns because promises were made in such a manner that people said let's drive out Jonathan’s and the APC came into government and we are where we are today.

"Here again people are beginning to its easy to fix Nigeria in 6 months but when you have not been in governance you will not understand exactly what the situation is and for somebody who says it's easy to fix Nigeria, it means the person does not even know the depth of the problem of Nigeria as at today,"

The PDP Presidential running mate said a lot of work needs to be done, adding that it requires the collective responsibility of every citizen to turn things around for the country.

"There is a lot of work to be done, and it requires great leadership and followership to work together to fix this country.

"It requires the collective efforts of our fathers and mothers but it also requires a lot of our youths to work together because people who don't understand the workings of governance can easily be deceived.

"We must seek the face of God, we must ask God prayerfully to allow His will to be done for this nation. So, we must all arise and pray that the will of God be in this nation so that we are not deceived again like we were deceived in 2015," he added.

Okowa further said Nigeria had never been so indebted like it is now saying, "the level of debt that we are in now in this country, we have never seen it before since 1999.

"All l ask is that our youths should shine their eyes, pray, don't be deceived again. Some people who told us that the naira and the dollar will become equal were deceitful.

"There are somethings that they will tell you and you will know that it is not possible because you have knowledgeable mind and you are educated.

"So, let us not just accept everything that people say, let us be cautious and prayerful and the Lord will truly guide us as a nation.

"As to whether Nigeria will return back to glorious days and surpass, yes it will; will it take time? yes also. We need to be prayerful," Okowa stated.

Guest Preacher Bishop Emmah Isong of Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI), Calabar, in his sermon "Them that love God" told Christians not to struggle to make it in life but just love God for all things work together for good to them that love God.

He urged Christians to love God and always pray for the nation in all they do and God will always show up in their lives, stressing that, "when you love God stumbling blocks put on the way against you will become stepping stones for you," Bishop Isong said.

Welcoming guests earlier, Presiding Bishop of Pasture of Life International, Bishop Jude Akhere had thanked the Governor for his immense contributions to the growth and development of the state.

He said he had lived in Asaba for 36 years and knew what the city looked like before the Okowa administration came on board.

He described Okowa as a governor with determination to change the status of Asaba capital city with several projects including Stephen Keshi Stadium; Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat; Maryam Babangida Way; DLA Road; Koka Flyover and Interchange
Asaba Storm Water Drainage; Okpanam Road; Asaba Leisure Park and Film Village.

Bishop Akhere also lauded the Governor for the establishment of three new universities, widow's monthly payment; Youth Empowerment Programmes; Contributory Health Insurance as well as free health care for children under 5 and pregnant women had contributed immensely to the reduction maternal mortality in the state.

Okowa mourns Delta-born gospel singer, Sammie Okposo

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has commiserated with the Okposo family and people of Isoko in the state over the passing of renowned gospel singer, Sammie Okposo.

The late Okposo hailed from Ivori-Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta. He reportedly passed on in the morning of Nov. 25, in Lagos. He was 51.

Okowa, in the condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, expressed sadness over the passing of the "Wellu Wellu" crooner, saying that it was a big loss to the deceased's family, Deltans and lovers of gospel music across the world.

According to him, the passing of the popular gospel artiste is a big blow to music lovers, his family, Ivori-Irri community and Isoko nation, considering his immense talent and outstanding contributions to the growth of gospel music locally and globally.

The governor described the late Okposo as a "gentleman gospel artiste", who contributed to the growth and development of modern entertainment industry in Nigeria.

He said that as one of the scions of the gospel genre of the music industry, Okposo would be greatly missed by his colleagues and fans.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of an illustrious son of our state and a great minister in gospel music.

“The news of his death was shocking and it is indeed, a great loss because he was a valued asset to Deltans and Nigerians, especially as his songs continue to inspire many to worship God," he said.

Okowa prayed to God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends to bear his exit.

Ukodhiko’s pedigree, proof of capacity to represent Isoko Federal Constituency

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

As we go into the polls in 2023, what should be criterion for voting our next representatives for the next four years should be the personal pedigree, antecedent as proof or evidence of the candidates’ capacities to deliver on the mandate to be given to them.

Universally, the legislature is the powerhouse of democracy. Here in Nigeria, the National Assembly (NASS) remains the most critical arm of government. Many have come to see the National Assembly has the best training ground for the enthronement of purposeful leadership.

With the people of personal accomplishments and capacities contesting for seats in the National Assembly through various political parties in various states of the Federation, it is obvious, to say, the next Assembly will be robust, marked by robust legislative delivery and responsive representation to the people.

At this critical time in our nation’s political history, Isoko can’t afford to send a charlatan or a pretender with no personal pedigree, antecedent to the National Assembly. Yes, We must be cognizant of the fact, good governance or representation are not in words or mere political promises but in actions.

We must critically think and consciously look less on mere promises and money been doled out and, think more and look well of people who have the requisite personal pedigree, antecedent in both the public and private sectors having the capacity to give, not only good representation but bring the desired dividends of democracy to us all.

The Isoko ethnic nationality has always been known for sending men and women who have personal pedigree, antecedent, and who are vibrant with strong character as representatives in the National Assembly, be it in the Federal House of Representatives, or in the Senate as represented by Stella Omu

Thus, I make bold to say that, the House of Representatives Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko stands out as the best amongst those who are contesting the Isoko Federal Seat in Abuja.

The reason is not far-fetched as he has the pedigree and antecedent. For more than two decades, he has been a successful businessman and investor with global exposure, reach and contacts. He runs successful companies in the oil and gas , construction and real estate sectors, both at home and in the diaspora under the parent-body of Joeny Holdings Ltd which has employed hundreds of youths including those from Isoko extraction.

Ukodhiko’s pedigree is not in doubt, so also, his antecedent both in the public service and in the private sector. As a civil commissioner in Delta State, he used the position to serve his people and help in realising their manifold aspirations. He was a Commissioner and member of the Delta State Executive Council for 8months! And his record of public service shows he saw to the socio-economic empowerment of the people. Whether in his capacity as a Civil Commissioner or as businessman, he did his utmost best to protect, advance and promote the overall Isoko interest.

There are no doubts, Ukodhiko foray into politics is simply to improve the welfare of his people of Isoko Federal Constituency, and the overwhelming calls, the massive supports and mass mobilization of the people for him to go the House of Representatives are motivated by their recall of his sterling performance during his days in government, and his pedigree, antecedent and multiple competencies in the business world.

Ukodhiko an ordained pastor with shepherding thousands of worshippers, is well mannered and Highly disciplined with good values. Well educated and knowledgeable, he is at home with the power that be as much as he is very comfortable with the teeming constituents in Isoko, having a good understanding of the challenges faced by the people.

Ukodhiko is a humanist in politics. His political vision rests on an ideology that is people centered, and it is to the people of Isoko he has made an unbreakable pledge to, to address the challenges and plights of the people through bills, motions and projects and holistic programmes.

With Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko of the PDP in the House of Representatives, every parts of the Isoko Federal Constituency will witness transformation, and the people will be empowered to grow. Let’s think, support and vote for the man, Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko of pedigree, who has the capacity to represent us of Isoko Federal Constituency well in the House of Representatives!

*Oreh writes from Otibio Ward 13 in Isoko North LGA

Deltans Won’t Fall For Your Cheap Lies, Propaganda , Okowa To Omo-Agege

DELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has said that the people of the state were too enlightened and exposed to fall for the cheap lies and propa­ganda being deployed by the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.

Speaking at a news conference in Asaba, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, said that rather than avail Deltans with his manifesto, Omo-Agege had engaged in lies to deceive Deltans, but warned that the people were very discerning and would not fall for the calumny against the governor and the State Government.

Mr. Ifeajika said that Okowa never be­trayed Southern Nigeria in becoming the vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Omo-Agege was maliciously peddling.

According to him, after the emergence of the presidential candidate of the party from the North, it was automatic that his running mate will come from the South, and for this, Okowa was found worthy to be selected hav­ing met the criteria set by the Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

He lampooned the Deputy President of the Senate, Omo-Agege, for his allegations that nothing worthwhile was done in the state with monies received over the years, disclosing that in his (Omo-Agege’s) Orogun community alone, the state government executed five important road projects.

“Across his Ughelli North Local Government Area, we have executed no fewer than 20 projects and across his Senatorial District, no fewer than 88 projects have been executed by the Okowa administration.

“Let him tell Deltans what he has achieved from the Federal Government where he sits as the second-in-command at the Senate. “It is on record that the Senate where he is a prominent member has been adjudged the worst since the fourth Republic began.

“It is this same National Assembly where he presides over that watched haplessly as President Muhammadu Buhari took our debt stock to over N60 trillion. Most times, the President collected loans, which he has continued to do almost monthly, without recourse to the Senate, in blatant contravention of the law.

“The injury inflicted on Nigerians by the APC through its maladministration in the country is fresh and tough on the people, yet the party is shamelessly campaigning for another chance to lead,’’ he said. On the issues raised by the APC’s Presidential Candidate, Bola Tinubu and former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, at the party’s rally in Warri on Saturday, the governor’s spokesman said “we will not join issues with Bola Tinubu and Adams Oshiomhole; they should first clear themselves on issues of identity and scandals before casting aspersions on Okowa, a man with sterling credentials.

“But we are not surprised at the way both men spoke at the rally, because in APC, lying and abusing people are in their DNA and the reason is obvious frustration.’’

He said work on some of the legacy projects of Governor Okowa’s administration was still ongoing in spite of the delay in accessing the bridging finance the government sought, adding, however, that “when we finally accessed N30 billion out of it, the governor, in his transparent culture, personally disclosed it to the media.

“So, we have nothing to hide here in Delta. That is the much that the State Government has collected from the bridging finance it sought and which some persons, including Omo- Agege, had ignorantly dubbed as loan of N150 billion and have continued to peddle it.”

He said that Oshiomhole, who was sacked as national chair­man of the APC by chairman of his Ward in Edo State, was suf­fering from frustration, especially after the defeats he suffered in all his battles in Edo, the worst being when he tried to stop Governor Godwin Obaseki from getting a second term.

“Hundreds of Oshiomholes and Tinubus couldn’t do any­thing about the battle. They lost it and it is the same way they will again lose to better option of Atiku-Okowa and the PDP,’’ Ifeajika added.

DELTA 2023: Sheriff Oborevwori and The New Deal

By Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.

There is widespread excitement among the people of Delta State right now. The excitement has enveloped a good majority of the people in anticipation of what is really people’s moment come 2023. One man who has become a phenomenon is behind this exciting wind of anticipation. That man, the man of the moment and perhaps for all times, is Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, present speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and the Delta State Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s longest-surviving and most resilient political party ever, Africa’s largest political party and most pro-people organization.

Rt. Hon. Oborevwori did not emerge by happenstance. He has been on the political scene and undergone tutelage under three Governors in Delta State. He also has the rare privilege of legislative and executive experience and has over the years seen politics as a tool for constructively reshaping humanity and making life better for the people. This vision has not only evolved, but has become concrete as seen in his emergence as the PDP Governorship candidate of Delta State at a free and fair primary election.

Evolving with this man of destiny is the concept known as Sheriffication which has become an ideology and a movement in Delta State. Anywhere, everywhere and wherever you turn the agreement among the people, young and old, men and women is that Delta State has been Sheriffied. To be Sheriffied is to believe and embrace the idea of Sheriff Oborevwori becoming Governor of Delta State in 2023 and the concept is Sheriffication.

While the majority of Deltans hailed Oborevwori’s entry into the Governorship race with excitement, a small clique was displeased with what they considered Oborevwori’s near underprivileged background. This clique tried to discredit Oborevwori. They cast aspersions on him and questioned his academic achievements.

There were litigations intended to undo him and thwart the wish of the people for him to become their Governor. Good enough the litigations failed and the people’s desire to have Oborevwori as their Governor is gathering momentum. In a few months from now, the people will affirm him as the Governor of Delta State through the ballot. They will witness and celebrate his swearing-in and inauguration as Governor in May 2023.

The emergence of Oborevwori has a populist push to it. He came from among the people in every sense of the word. While some say that he came from the streets, they forget to see the streets as representing the true and real essence of the people. The street is where the people are and democracy is about the people.

The streets see Oborevwori as their own and he is very high on street credibility. He was born among the people, he grew up among them, lives with them and he knows their ways, their problems, their hopes, and aspirations. In him are the strategies with which to free the people from want, lack and set them on a pedestal for the new deal he is bringing to the table. Oborevwori is undoubtedly the ideal people’s politician and leader. His populist ideas and goals are unquestionably remarkable and unsurpassable.

The new deal Oborevwori is offering to Deltans is embodied in his manifesto aptly titled M.O.R.E. The acronym is symbolic because it recognizes that so much has been done in Delta State, but he is set to do MORE and take the State and people to the frontiers of the emergent New World order. The driving indices of MORE are Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security. Reading and evaluating the MORE agenda will reveal that Oborevwori has a deep understanding of what the development aspirations of Delta State are. Every Nation, every State is a work in progress always confronted by problems which right-thinking leaders who bear the burden of their people, like Oborevwori now does, are always desirous of remedying. The manifesto depicts Oborevwori as highly pro-people. MORE is the people’s agenda and in it, Oborevwori enunciates a new deal that will turn the State around for good.

The MORE agenda seeks to reposition Delta State and her people by engaging the core indices of modern development. Such indices under Meaningful development include education, energy, healthcare, physical infrastructure such as roads, transportation, housing, and new cities, rural development, urban regeneration, etc. The foci under Opportunities for all are employment and wealth creation, agricultural productivity, industrialization, ICT, sports, and creative enterprise. Realistic reforms will harness policies and programmes of Government for the good of the people, while peace and security will create an enabling environment for investment and social co-existence for all Deltans and other Nigerians and foreigners. Oborevwori deliberately deemphasizes the reliance on crude oil in articulating his development agenda. His dream of greatness and rebirth for Delta rests on her human capital and agricultural resources which are to be galvanized by education, energy, ICT, and industrialization.

Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, despite the tendency for political opponents to undermine his educational attainments, holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science Degrees in Political Science from two of Nigeria’s prestigious Universities. Thus Oborevwori is well-grounded in the theory and practice of politics. Besides his towering educational attainments, Oborevwori has also undergone political leadership and managerial trainings in some of the best educational institutions in the world to reinforce his hands-on engagement in practical politics.

The truth is that all of those who undermine Oborevwori lack his capacity in every imaginable parameter. Among the qualification and experience reinforcing his competence and capacity are: Certificate in Top Executive Leadership Programme, Manchester Business School, United Kingdom; Certificate in Legislative Framework for Budget Management, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, United States of America; Certificate in Legislative Management and Leadership, International Law Institute, Washington DC, United States of America; Certificate in Leading Inclusive Development, London School of Economics and Political Science, United Kingdom; Certificate in Advanced Leadership Programme, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom; among others.

It is doubtful if any other Nigerian politician has such a formidable attainment in the acquisition of knowledge of modern governance. This is the cumulative knowledge and experience that proposed the new deal for Delta State and her people. The new deal is in MORE as envisioned and articulated by Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

© Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza is the Deputy Director of, the Media and Publicity Committee, Delta State PDP Campaign Council.

2023: Okowa to Omo-Agege, Deltans won't fall for your cheap lies

Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Monday said the people of the state were too enlightened and exposed to fall for the cheap lies and propaganda being deployed by the Governorship Candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.

Speaking at a news conference in Asaba, Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said that rather than avail Deltans with his manifesto, Omo-Agege had engaged in lies to deceive Deltans, but warned that the people were very discerning and would not fall for the calumny against the governor and the State Government.

He said that Okowa never betrayed South Nigeria in becoming the vice-presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Omo-Agege was maliciously peddling.

According to him, after the emergence of the presidential candidate of the party from the North, it was automatic that his running mate will come from the South, and for this, Okowa was found worthy to be selected having met the criteria set by the Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

He lampooned the Deputy President of the Senate, Omo-Agege, on his allegations that nothing was done in the state with monies received over the years, disclosing that in his (Omo-Agege’s) Orogun community alone, the state government executed five important road projects.

"Across his Ughelli North Local Government Area, we have executed no fewer than 20 projects and across his Senatorial District, no fewer than 88 projects have been executed by the Okowa administration.

"Let him tell Deltans what he has achieved from the Federal Government where he sits as the second-in-command at the Senate.

"It is on record that the Senate where he is a prominent member has been adjudged the worst since the fourth Republic began.

"It is this same National Assembly where he presides over that watched haplessly as President Muhammadu Buhari took our debt stock to over N60 trillion. Most times, the President collected loans, which he has continued to do almost monthly, without recourse to the Senate, in blatant contravention of the law.

"The injury inflicted on Nigerians by the APC through its maladministration in the country is fresh and tough on the people, yet the party is shamelessly campaigning for another chance to lead,’’ he said.

On the issues raised by APC’s Presidential Candidate, Bola Tinubu and former Governor of Edo, Adams Oshiomhole, at the party’s rally in Warri on Saturday, the governor’s spokesman said "we will not join issues with Bola Tinubu and Adams Oshiomhole; they should first clear themselves on issues of identity and scandals before casting aspersions on Okowa, a man with sterling credentials.

``But, we are not surprised at the way both men spoke at the rally, because in APC, lying and abusing people are in their DNA. And, the reason is obvious frustration.’’

He said work on some of the legacy projects of Governor Okowa’s administration was still ongoing in spite of the delay in accessing the bridging finance the government sought, adding, however, that "when we finally accessed N30 billion out of it, the governor, in his transparent culture, personally disclosed it to the media.

``So, we have nothing to hide here in Delta. That is the much that the State Government has collected from the bridging finance it sought and which some persons, including Omo-Agege, had ignorantly dubbed as loan of N150 billion and have continued to peddle it."

He said that Oshiomhole, who was sacked as national chairman of APC by chairman of his Ward in Edo, was suffering from frustration, especially after the defeats he suffered in all his battles in Edo, the worst being when he tried to stop Governor Godwin Obaseki from getting a second term.

``Hundreds of Oshiomholes and Tinubus couldn’t do anything about the battle. They lost it and it is the same way they will again lose to better option of Atiku-Okowa and the PDP,’’ Ifeajika added

13% Derivation: Okowa’s govt transparent, accountable

Delta Government on Monday debunked media reports credited to a governor of a South South state that it had collected refunds from the Federal Government without disclosing it to citizens, saying it had remained committed to transparency and accountability in all its financial dealings on behalf of the people.

The Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, made this known at a news conference in Asaba, while addressing the issues of 13 per cent derivation arrears payment to oil-producing states raised by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers at the weekend.

Tilije, who was in company with Commissioner for Special Projects, Chief Henry Sakpra and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said contrary to the ``revelation’’ by Wike, Delta had only received N14.7 billion in three quarterly installments of N4.9 billion each.

According to him, the total amount due to the State from the 13 per cent derivation arrears is N240bn out of which the Federal Government agreed to pay in quarterly installment for a period of five years.

"With the agreed amounts settled, some states like Rivers approached commercial banks and discounted theirs in full and collected, but Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa said he would not want to leave the next administration with a huge debt burden.

"He resorted to discounting only N150 billion out of the N240 billion expected receivables but later pruned it down to N100 billion.

"So far, we have got N14.7 billion in three quarterly installments and we have also accessed N30 billion out of the N100 billion we applied for as bridging finance," he explained.

The commissioner stated that contrary to the impression given by Wike that previous administrations in the country refused to pay the money to the oil-producing states, the discovery of the outstanding funds was made by current commissioners for finance in the Niger Delta states.

"The present Commissioners for Finance of the nine Niger Delta states looked into the books of the NNPC and discovered that 13 per cent derivation was not deducted from subsidy payments and investments in priority projects by the Corporation.

"We took the matter before the FAAC and National Economic Council and got them to approve the payment in arrears to the affected oil-producing states.

"It is important to state that this was only discovered under the Buhari administration, which he subsequently approved. It is not that previous PDP administrations refused to pay. It was never discovered then neither was it brought to their notice," he said.

Tilije also denied claims by former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, that the state government received over N60 billion on refunds for federal roads projects executed by the state.

Ovie Omo-Agege and His Crass Vituperations

By Jackson Ekwugum

November 21, 2022

Over the weekend, the good people of Delta State and, indeed, many Nigerians were assaulted with the vile propaganda that is the stock-in-trade of the All Progressives Congress. Addressing a press conference, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, the APC governorship candidate for Delta State launched a tirade against the Governor of Delta State and PDP Vice-Presidential Candidate, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as well as Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the PDP governorship candidate. The entire statement and his comments during the APC Presidential rally in Warri were riddled with fallacies, distortions, outright lies, unsubstantiated claims, and deliberate misinformation. They were served on a platter of malice with an unmistakable diabolical intent to spread disaffection and foment disunity among the good people of Delta State.

The APC Presidential rally in Warri was nothing but a failed attempt to divert attention from their monumental failure at the centre. The APC rode into power in 2015 promising to fight insecurity, corruption, and improve the economy. Nigerians, including APC members, know that on all three counts, the APC-led Federal Government has been an unmitigated disaster. Nigeria has never been more insecure than it is today. Corruption has grown wings under the APC, and the economy has hit rock bottom. Today, the naira is exchanging for N800 to a dollar as against their promise to make one naira equal to a dollar. Our external debt now stands at a staggering $40 billion as at the second quarter of this year, no thanks to the rubber stamp Senate where Omo-Agege is Deputy President.

Instead of apologizing to Nigerians for the pain and suffering they have been subjected to under their misrule, Omo-Agege and his band of political opportunists are busy reeling out phantom figures in a futile bid to confuse and deceive them. The length and breadth of the country are littered with failing and failed federal roads, including Agbor-Abraka-Eku Road and Warri-Sapele-Benin road, which makes you wonder what the loans were used for. It is shameful that Omo-Agege as Deputy Senate President could not prevail on the federal government to rehabilitate these roads that have remained a nightmare to motorists. The same scenario applies to the sea ports, which is the sole responsibility of the Federal Government. After almost years, is it now that the APC realised that the Warri Sea Port is not functional?

Omo-Agege and his co-travellers continue to deviously push the false narrative of financial profligacy in Delta State. The truth of the matter is that we have over N320bn in receivables including the N292bn refund by FAAC as part of illegal deductions before the payment of the 13% derivation. The Federal Government promised to pay in equal instalments of N13b over a period of five years. This compelled the government to request a drawdown of N150bn under receivable discounting which lingered until recently when 30bn was drawn. It is instructive to note that it was Governor Okowa who broke the news to Deltans and informed them that N25b has been channelled to ongoing projects while N5b was deployed to defray outstanding pension liabilities. Talk about openness and transparency!

The Okowa administration has judiciously utilized every money that it has received either from FAAC or IGR. Completed and ongoing road projects in the state number 883 covering a total length of 1, 932.14 kilometres while drainage channels have a cumulative length of 1,035.95 kilometres. Because Omo-Agege’s idea of politics and development begins and ends with his native Orogun, he does not know that it was Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo who commissioned the flagship 20.28km Obotobo I – Obotobo II – Sokebolou–Yokri – Road in Burutu local government area. Riverine communities like Burutu, Oporoza, Okerenkoko, and Benekrukru have been given a facelift with road infrastructure of the most vital interest and consequence by the Okowa administration.

Six bridges have been completed while an additional 15, including the Koka Flyover and Interchange on Benin Asaba Expressway, are at various stages of construction. The ultra-modern Central Secretariat Complex, an architectural masterpiece that was, again, commissioned by Vice-president Osinbajo, and the Ogheye Floating Market are two other signature projects of the administration. Meanwhile, three new universities have been established while nine new model technical colleges are nearing completion. Then there is the Stephen Keshi Stadium, the Asaba Storm Water Drainage, and the ongoing Warri Storm Water drainage projects. In human capital development, the Okowa administration has trained and produced 14,075 youth entrepreneurs while the state has maintained its leadership position in universal health coverage with over 1.2m enrollees (20% of the population) in the health insurance scheme.

I am not at all surprised that Omo-Agege is not ready to run an issue-based campaign as has been canvassed. This is a desperate power monger whose name has gone down in history as a political bandit. He needs to be reminded that Nigerians have not forgotten his dubious role in the infamous mace saga, which remains the greatest assault on our democracy and legislative freedom. It would have been too much to expect a man whose name has become synonymous with political subterfuge and brigandage to suddenly embrace the fine art of constructive engagement and ideological debates to sell himself and woo the electorate. As the saying goes, you can only give what you have, and all that Omo-Agege has to offer is his mischief, uncouthness, brazen lies, wild conjectures, vile propaganda, and bolekaja mentality. Even his half-hearted attempt to present a manifesto was nothing more than a cheap copy and paste job.

It is ironic that Omo-Agege would dare to pillory the emergence of Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori as the PDP governorship candidate in Delta State. It would have been laughable were it not so pathetic. It is common knowledge that Oborevwori emerged through a free, transparent, and credible primary election that was broadcast live on national television where Oborevwori defeated twelve other contestants with 591 votes out of 821 total votes cast. Compare that to Omo-Agege who, in his usual crude and despotic manner, hijacked the electoral process in the APC, connived with powerful forces to prevent others from contesting, and crowned himself the winner of a kangaroo primary election. Again, the outcome of that exercise did not come as a surprise. Omo-Agege’s antecedents first as Executive Assistant, later Commissioner and SSG in the state exposed him as a selfish, self-centred, bigoted, and heartless individual who would stop at nothing, including using underhanded methods, to get his desire at the expense of others.

That Omo-Agege would continue to parade himself as the architect of the new Electoral Act despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary speaks volumes of his character as an inveterate liar, serial deceiver, and traitor. Nigerians remember very well how this rabble rouser stood on the floor of the Senate and spoke and voted against electronic transmission of results because, according to him, there was no sufficient network in Nigeria to make that possible. For him to now seek to claim credit for what Nigerians fought for is the height of political chicanery.

Similarly, Omo-Agege wants to posture as a champion of southern presidency. Yet, it is on record that he led Senate President Ahmed Lawan’s campaign to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari. The truth of the matter is that such terms as equity, fairness, and justice, have no place in Omo-Agege’s dictionary. It is on record that he has been a staunch opponent of power shift in Delta State. Since 2007, he has contested the governorship, jumping from one party to another in the manner of a shameless political prostitute. Recall that in 2019 when some leaders of the APC sought to zone the governorship ticket to Delta North, he vehemently opposed it and the only aspirant who dared to contest almost lost his life. That is vintage Omo-Agege – vicious, cruel, and barbaric.

Deltans know better than to commit their fortunes and future into the hands of a notorious political bandit. And as for Senator Emilokan, clearly this is a man that is mentally and physically unfit to occupy the office he is aspiring to. There is really no need to respond to him because he is daily making himself a nuisance and laughing stock to Nigerians. Truly, I have compassion on him, and I hope that sooner than later, those close to him will come to his aid and rescue him from continually making himself a national embarrassment.

Ekwugum is Manager, Communications, Government House, Asaba

RT. HON. FRANCIS OBOREVWORI: NOW THE ALBATROSS OF HIS DISTRESSED OPPONENTS.

OLOMU ONYIYE.

As the campaigns now run along, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has rapidly remained the much-talked-about bride in the political landscape of Delta State.

His political image & Guber ambition, still ensconced & driven by the catchphrases of the "Sherrified Movement' & M.O.R.E Mantra, have become quite infectious & electrifying among Deltans, to the extent that most of them now follow his political activities with relish or delight. But then, his opponents won't stop hauling or shelling their salvos from their already depleted stock. The simple aim: just make a shipwreck of his Divinely ordained Guber ambition & that would be enough.

Their initial intention was to ensure that the Speaker's goodwill was smeared irreparably by the allegation of him being an 'agbero', a designation which for want of any other plausible explanation, only sought to equate such a man (who has for 7 years, headed & presided over the Legislative Arm of the State populated by equally Honourable representatives of Deltans) to the deplorable status of a motor park tout or resented village urchin.

However, the strange narrative of a 'thuggish' Speaker was naturally weaned off the minds of Deltans who clearly knew & stood for the truth. As they say, Truth never walks on crutches. If it must walk at all, it has to stand upright.

Right now, a new narrative has been spun in the coven-like mills of the traducers of the platinum Speaker. They say he's only going to be Governor Okowa's surrogate in Government. How petty.

Between the Speaker, who has so far, been transversing the length & breadth of his Senatorial District & the State, having meetings & consultations with stakeholders/electorate, and his opponents, who keep going irritatingly berserk with their dependence on some phantom 'Federal Might or Connection', who is more prepared for the job ahead?

Obviously, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori has shown capacity by not waiting for Governor Okowa before hitting the ground running. He's been proving his mettle as the acclaimed veteran that he is.

Let his opponents keep inviting their feeble Federal flag bearers and garrulous past Chairmen who engage in mere political showmanship and unfounded tirades, but the truth remains that Deltans already know and would separate the real leaders from the bunch of jesters come 2023.

2023: Owhe clan endorses Ukodhiko for Reps

By Ajiri Oreh and Kingsley Ikodudu

Owhe clan in Isoko North Local Government Area on Sunday endorsed Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko of the Peoples Democratic Party for the House of Representatives in the 2023 General Elections.

The endorsement of the PDP candidate, Ukodhiko, was at a Town hall meeting of the Owhe Clan Development Union (OCDU) at Owhelogbo Town Hall, Owhelogbo.

The President, OCDU, Rev Sunday Atoma, said the meeting of President-Generals of Communities, the women association, traditional chiefs and the youths are in a consensus, support of our son, Ukodhiko for the House of Representatives."

The motion for adoption and endorsement of Engr Ukodhiko was moved by a former Isoko North Council Chairman, Chief Solomon Ukpore.

The motion was supported by Mrs Rhoda Osobo for the women group, Mr Ofie Goodluck Uthe for the youths, and Engr Wilfred Atunu for the President-Generals.

In his response, Engr Ukodhiko appreciated the people of Owhe clan for the endorsement, and promised to give Isoko Federal Constituency a befitting representation and bring desired development to Owhe clan and Isoko nation in general.

“What can be better than this today when your own people are fully in support of your aspirations.

“I am very happy with this endorsement, in support of me. God didn’t do wrong to make me come from Owhe. I feel proud be an Owhe man”

“Seeing the massive turnout of the people I feel optimistic I have won the Federal House of representatives election.

“My fathers, mothers and brothers and sisters, I am the only Owhe man in the race. I am appealing you continue to support me as I go to the House of Representatives I’ll fight for you and bring development and empowerment to you all and the people of Isoko.

“As you have endorsed me today, God has put hand on my aspiration. I’m not afraid because my people are fully backing me for the race”. Ukodhiko stated.

Present are the various communities’ president-generals, Rev Atoma of Otie-Owhe and Owhe Clan, Dr Israel Adaigho of Igbuku-Owhe, Revd Canon M.O Enaruvbe of Otor-Igho, Hon Elder Francis Ughegbe of Owhelogbo, and Sir Reuben of Ekreze-Owhe.

Others were are Engr Atunu of Otor-Owhe, Mr. Augustine Evue of Edhomoko-Owhe, Comr. David Ujorode of Eniagbedhi- Owhe , Comr Godswill Ubido of Akiewhe-Owhe, Hon Goodluck Obiaro of Aziaro-Owhe, and Prophet Sunday Okoro VPG, Enuru-Owhe

Former Secretary to the State Government, Sir Simon Efenudu, Chairman, Prince Godwin Ogorugba, Coordinator, PDP Campaign Council for Isoko North, Hon Mike Ogwah, Leader, Isoko North Legislative Arm, Hon Francis Udubra were among leaders present at the meeting

The Emptiness In Omo-Agege's Speech (Part 1)

The speech delivered yesterday at the Warri Township Stadium by the Delta State APC's Guber Candidate and Deputy Senate President, 'Sinator' Augustine Ovie Omo-Agege was full of lies and propaganda. It is the height of desperation, attacking the PDP and the Governor of Delta State, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa just to deceive Deltans and grab power by all means. Lies and propaganda are the typical characteristics of the APC in the last seven years. Deltans know the truth. APC cannot deceive us.

However, doubters are encouraged to re-examine Krishnamurti's popular quote on the need to understand the whole of life in 'Think on these things'. "You must understand the whole of life, not just one part of it. That is why you must read, that is why you must look at the skies, why you must sing, dance and write poems, and suffer, and understand, for all that is life". We know the true meaning of APC as All Promises Cancelled. It has nothing to offer. Making fresh promises when the previous ones were not fulfilled should be condemned.

So, Buhari's APC and Omo-Agege have been in power for the last seven years. Not even a mention or an effort to revive the Delta Steel Company, DSC in Ovwian/Aladja. Suddenly, the Orogun Senator woke up at the Warri Township Stadium to put up a strong lie about an unrealistic plan by Tinubu's APC to resuscitate the company. Probably, this time to be handled by the Jimmy Omo-Agege group of companies in Orogun presently handling projects at the ������� �����������, ������� ������� ����� ������, �����/����� ����� ����������, ���� ��� ������ and �������� ��� ������ all located in ������, Ughelli North Local Government Area.

Omo-Agege also dished out his plans to resuscitate and put into use the Koko and Warri Seaports in the presence of Asiwaju. Two points to note here: The DSP had forgotten that he made a similar promise to the Okwagbe people in 2019 and that Tinubu will never allow any seaport outside Lagos to see the light of day.

Omo-Agege who is yet to complete or commission a single project, seven years after, promising to perform miracles in Delta State. If he has performed, at least, the President would have been invited. The Sapele/Amukpe-Eku-Abraka-Agbor road, an acclaimed constituency project of the DSP is abandoned.

To be continued...

Oborevwori extols Jonathan at 65

Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 65th birth anniversary.

In a message contained in a statement by Spokesman of the Delta State PDP Governorship Campaign Council, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Oborevwori commended the former Nigerian leader for his sacrifices toward nation-building and unity of Nigeria.

Oborevwori, who is Speaker of the Delta House of Assembly, lauded Jonathan for his accomplishments in international peace mediations, especially in Africa.

"On behalf of my family, the people of Okpe constituency and Peoples Democratic Party in Delta, I congratulate our great leader and highly respected elder statesman, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, on the occasion of his 65th birth anniversary.

"As a man of peace and great fidelity, our former President has continued to use his goodwill and humane disposition to broker peace and unity in conflict-ridden countries of Africa.

"As governorship candidate of our great party in Delta, we will continue to be guided by the laudable qualities of statesmanship and selflessness which you have always exhibited at all times.

"As you deservedly celebrate this 65th birth anniversary, it is our prayer that God will continue to bless you with good health and greater wisdom in your service to God and humanity," he stated.

The Sheriffication of Delta State

By Fred Edoreh

The history of politics is replete with the struggle of classes. Even from Biblical times, when the taller, more handsome children of Jesse wondered how Samuel would seek out a goat herder to anoint as future King, it was also subsequently asked, "Is Saul also among the prophets?"

In the New Testament, the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Scribes also thought little of Jesus Christ, wondering how any good could come from Nazareth. In the pride of their high learnings, they were still ignorant that power belongs to God, that the race is not for the swiftest nor the battle for the strongest, and that God elevates the humble and uses the simple to confound the mighty. It was such that Jesus who was born in the corner of a manger became the King of the world. That same divinity seems to define the forthcoming Gubernatorial contest in Delta State.

The main protagonist, Rt. Honourable Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, humble, calm, and resilient, is a homeboy. His antagonists feel he does not belong to the tribe of the "mighty", sons of some old high-profile politicians and sung Government functionaries who, by the privilege of their birth and parentage, feel that power is exclusively for them and never for the sons and daughters of the common folks. Herein is the contest in Delta.

Sheriff, as he is freely called, is not a descendant of any mighty name. He struggled to be in the mention by dint of self-effort. He has no home in Abuja, he does not holiday in London, New York, or Dubai.

He has aptly described his greatest asset as street credibility, taking pride in his deep connection with the common folks and everyday people.

While the high-class dash off to foreign cities for weekends and public holidays, he steps out from the Chambers of the Delta State House of Assembly, where he has been the Speaker for five years plus, to be with his family in his Osubi home or go round to honour his relations and friends distributed across Aniocha, Oshimili, Ika, Ndokwa, Ukwuani, Itsekiri, Isoko, Ijaw, and his native Urhoboland, identifying in solidarity with them in their different joyful moments or difficult circumstances

His opponents suggest that such a humble lifestyle is not psychedelic enough for one aspiring to be a Governor of Delta State, but beyond his simplicity is an entrapment of some of the greatest qualities of truly great leadership which begins with empathy, the identification, association and communication with the people, knowing them, feeling them, sharing in their pains and helping to solve their needs.

It is for this quality that he has been sustained as the longest speaker of the State Assembly and elevated from the position of Treasurer to Deputy Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria till date.

Before now, State Assemblies have been led as war houses, with the misimpression that they must not agree with the executive arm in order not to be seen as "rubber stamp." Sometimes also, some of the Assemblymen see warmongering as a pivot to rocket their political popularity.

Oborevwori however defines the principle of separation of powers as the Division of Labour in which all arms of Government must work in harmonious understanding for the common purpose of social and economic development of the people.

In his view, law-making and oversight functions do not necessarily mean the antagonism of the executive arm. He has conducted the State Assembly with the maturity and wisdom that differences are better managed through communication and agreeable resolutions, without the dramatics of conflicts and showmanship of populism.

Having come through the mills of public service, starting first as Supervisory Councillor for Works in the old Okpe Local Government Area which included now Udu and Uvwie Local Governments, Special Assistant on Youth Development to Governor James Ibori, Special Adviser on Land Security to Governor Emmanual Uduaghan, Delta State Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and then elected and re-elected Speaker of the State House of Assembly, in 2017 and 2019, he understands the responsibility of governance and the sobriety required in the discharge of leadership.

His experience through those positions, especially working with three successive Governors of the State and particularly as Speaker, not only bequeaths him with a deep knowledge of the development issues across all constituencies of the State, where and how the shoe pinches the people, but also of the processes and procedures of good governance.

Added to his experience in leadership and public service is a standard educational background for which after his secondary education, he proceeded to acquire Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Political Science, a Certificate in Top Executive Leadership at the Manchester Business School, Certificate in Leading Inclusive Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science, and Certificate in Advanced Leadership at the University of Cambridge.

To enhance his efficiency as a legislator, he also studied for a Certificate in Legislative Framework for Budgeting Management at the Georgia Institute of Technology and another in Legislative Management and Leadership at the International Law Institute, Washington DC.

A member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), it is most assuring that he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, a necessary skill for good governance through the equitable distribution of resources for not only even development but also for the maintenance of social harmony, peace, and security, especially in a State of diverse ethnic nationalities like Delta State.

This much he has reflected in his M.O.R.E. Agenda which, in practical terms, focuses on the industrialisation of the State by capitalising on its rich oil and gas resources to activate various existing and new industrial parks, attract private sector investments through enablement policies, tailored support for investors and Public Private Partnerships; jobs and wealth creation through human capital development entailing skills training and empowerment in technical handiwork, ICT and Digital knowledge as well as support for Small and Medium Enterprises; improved food security and expansion of agribusiness through more meaningful funding, technological and innovative support for farmers for higher commercial productivity, processing, packaging, marketing, distribution and exports as well as risk management; and the diversification of the economic base by encouraging the diverse sectors including the creative industry.

His MORE Agenda also includes the expansion of the State's physical infrastructure base, especially roads, bridges, jetties, as well as the deepening of social assets in health, education, housing, and motivation of the State labour force.

In public acceptance, conviction, and followership, Oborevwori is far ahead of his opponents but, as expected in politics, they are throwing things at him to distract him and confuse the public about his personality, personal achievements, and contributions to State building.

They even argue that he does not speak Queen's English, being not born in Buckingham but Osubi, being not bred in London nor New York but in Alaka, being not a graduate of Oxford but of Ambrose Alli and Delta State Universities.

But, the more they try, the more the State intensifies in "Sheriffication" as is currently being witnessed by the ever-increasing enthusiasm building around him in the ongoing ward-to-ward campaign by which he reaches and touches the people across the grassroots.

The glaring indication is that the people have not only settled for the homely leadership they find in him, one that they can truly, confidently, easily reach and connect with, but also one that inspires hope in the common folks across the State, from the upland to the riverine, from the inner parts of the urban and suburban centres to the towns, villages, and hamlets, from the artisan to the civil servant, the farmer to the market woman, the taxi driver and bus conductor to the cleaner, from the primary or secondary school teacher to the lecturer, from the undergraduate to the youth on the street, that they and their sons and daughters can also have a place in leadership and governance, if they build themselves like Sheriff.

2023: Uduaghan urges Isoko people to vote Ukodhiko

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

Former Delta Governor , Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has urged the people of Isoko to vote the People Democratic Party’s House of Representatives Candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko.

The Delta South PDP Leader, Uduaghan made the call on Friday at the Delta South Senatorial District PDP Ward to Ward Campaign at Abigborodo in Warri North Local Government Area

According to him, “with Ukodhiko in the Green Chambers, my dear Isoko people will benefit more dividends of democracy and enjoy quality representation at the National Assembly ”

The former Governor stated it was time for party leaders and supporters to close ranks and work for the interests of the PDP, which to him remains the strongest and the party to beat in the State

He enjoined the People to put aside all misgivings, dissociate from anti party activities, and vote massively for all candidates of the PDP in the 2023 General Elections.

Present at the rally were the Senatorial Candidate, Chief Micheal Diden, Director General, PDP Campaign Council, Hon Solomon Funkekemen, Deputy Chairman, Chief Val’ Arenyeka, former President, Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Chief Solomon Ogba, Chairman, PDP, Delta South, Chief Julius Takeme.

Others were former Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, Chairman, Warri North Council, Chief Smart Yomi Asekutu , Commissioner representing Isoko Nation on the Board of DESOPADEC, Chief Paul Oweh

Why Deltans Should Take Sheriff Oborevwori And PDP Seriously Than Other Gubernatorial Candidates And Their Parties

By Sylvester Imonina

It is becoming clearer every day why Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori was recently christened, "a man with excessive street credibility". Street credibility as it concerns Rt. Hon. Oborevwori simply means a man who knows what his people want at every given time because of his closeness/accessibility to the people in the streets of Delta State.

From Oborevwori's recent instinctive actions and inactions, tongues are left wagging by some people on the manner of person Oborevwori is! That is, if it is possible to change the order of nature, majority of Deltans wish that March 2023 should be within this month of November, 2022 so that they can elect a man whom meekness, generosity, accessibility and availability for service flows in his veins. Some of the reasons why Deltans are in a hurry to have Chief Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori as their Governor are not far-fetched.

In the history of Delta State in particular and Nigeria in general, Sheriff Oborevwori is the first Governorship Candidate to embark on Ward-To-Ward campaigns. Before now, Governorship Candidates of political parties used to campaign from one Local Government Area to the other. Because Sheriff Oborevwori and Delta PDP want to know what Deltans at the Unit/Ward levels want at this point in time, they decided to have interactive sessions with Ward Leaders and the common man in the two hundred and seventy (270) Wards in Delta State. The reason for the change in modus operandi is for the greatest interest of Deltans and same is yielding good results. Apart from the fact that Deltans now have the opportunity of meeting and/or getting closer to the person they yearn for as their Governor, come 2023, their demands are being carefully noted.

Another reason Deltans are taking Sheriff Oborevwori more seriously is because of the way and manner he and the PDP-led government of Delta State attended to them in their moment of need, caused by the recent flood. Sheriff Oborevwori did not only visit them, he and the PDP-led government of Delta State, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa provided almost everything they needed across the State.

While Governorship Candidates of some struggling and tattered political parties were hiding in the comfort of their homes in Abuja and Lagos, and some waiting for bullion Vans of their Presidential Candidates to come over to Delta State before they could assist our brothers, sisters, aged mothers and fathers, Sheriff Oborevwori, PDP-led government and some political office holders of PDP were busy attending to the needs of the internally displaced people. Unfortunately, those Candidates who were feeding our people with lies and fake promises are shamelessly soliciting for the votes of the people they abandoned in their moment of need!

Apart from the above, information in the public domain is that those who were displaced from their homes by the recent flood are being resettled by the Government of Delta State, under the leadership of our amiable Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa. The information says that each person is being given as much as Fifty Thousand Naira, while every family that was displaced and were in the internally displaced Camps is being supported with One Hundred Thousand Naira. This act of generosity is something that has never happened in the history of Delta State and Nigeria in recent years!

Deltans, "I will do so so so and so and I have or I am doing so so so and so" are not the same. Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori and the Delta State PDP-led government have led no one in doubt that they believe in the principle of "the welfare of the people is the supreme law". Deltans cannot afford to use their votes to play "jogba/kalokalo" in 2023.

Let us support Sheriff Oborevwori and PDP Candidates. Sheriff Oborevwori cares. He will listen more, and ready to do MORE for the good of all Deltans in 2023 and beyond. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori is the way; PDP is the answer.

Sylvester Imonina,
Writes from Oruamudhu Community, Ozoro Kingdom.

PRESS RELEASE

18th November, 2022

PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, DELTA STATE WELCOMES ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU TO DELTA STATE, SAYS DELTANS WOULD NOT REWARD APC’S GROSS INCOMPETENCE WITH THEIR VOTES

We want to welcome the APC Presidential candidate to his rally with his gubernatorial candidate in Delta State, Ovie Omo-Agege. We hope he would enjoy the traditional hospitality of Deltans for which we are well known all over the world.

In the circumstance of the experience of Delta State and Deltans, in the hands of the APC-led Federal Government, we are unable to give anything more than our traditional hospitality.

Deltans will not pitch their votes to APC for many reasons. First of all, Warri-Benin road, the Warri-Eku-Abraka-Agbor road; which are Federal Government roads, but have become major deathtraps and eye sores viewed against the over 1900 kilometres of roads constructed by the PDP Government of Delta State, under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

This is even more painful when the State Government have offered severally to fix these roads and the Federal Government rejecting such offers and chasing away workers sent to fix the roads.

More importantly, the humongous debt that your party’s-led Federal Government has incurred, have put the nation in such a jeopardy, making Nigeria the poverty capital of the world. This makes it imperative that an urgent rescue of Nigeria from APC is what Deltans and Nigerians are calling for right now.

Your party’s case is even more compounded by your poor coronation of a gubernatorial candidate in the person of Ovie Omo-Agege, the alleged notorious mace rustler, (without prejudice to his exoneration by the court), whose supposed link to brazen thuggery on the floor of the hallowed Senate Chamber, was rewarded by your party with the plum position of Deputy Senate President. In this office, you will agree with us, that he has exhibited his well known rapacious leadership incompetence, clannishness, greed, and sycophancy.

While your party might just be noticing these tendencies now, we in Delta State have since known this of him. Since the founding of Delta, he has had the reputation of being the worst-ever Secretary to State Government. But we are not surprised that your very poor-performing party has chosen a man whose antecedents are nothing to write home about. You will not also be surprised to know that the Senate over which he presides as Deputy Senate President, is rated as the very worst in the history of Nigeria.

The resultant national insecurity, ethnic and religious disharmonies, extreme poverty, hunger, massive youth unemployment, and pervasive "japa", have become the hallmark of the disaster that your party has visited on Nigeria and Nigerians.

For these reasons, Deltans are unanimous in saying God forbid that they reward your monumental incompetence with their votes.

Delta State is PDP and PDP is Delta State.


Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.

FLOOD VICTIMS: GOV OKOWA SHOULD BE COMMENDED.

I just read that the Internally Displaced Persons' (IDP) camp in Ewulu, Aniocha South LGA (my LGA) has been officially closed by the Delta State Government, as the floods have begun to recede and some of the affected plains are getting habitable again. But what struck me particularly was the assistance of the State Government in relocating these thousands of IDPs back to their homes. It was reported that "single individuals were given =N=50,000 cash while households of internally displaced persons received =N=100,000." This is quite commendable.

I was the Commissioner for Special Duties in charge of emergency services when a similar flood occurred in 2012. And, I can tell you it's only those directly involved in the three-dimensional task of rescue, shelter, and relocation/rehabilitation that can appreciate the enormity of the job. The risks in pulling people out of the raging waters, the labour of creating emergency shelters, conveniences, and security, the diligence required to feed and care for the sick, the elderly, the pregnant, the infants, the emotionally unstable, the criminally minded, and, of course, ensuring a safe and orderly return of the IDPs to their homes.

Any leadership or agents of Government that successfully see through these extraordinarily difficult processes deserve some compliment. In my opinion, politics or no politics, we must be humane enough to appreciate the good works of others in such dire circumstances. On this note, my sincere thanks go to H.E. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and his team for the successful rescue, shelter, care, and relocation/rehabilitation of these our parents, brothers, and sisters.

God bless you, sir.

Ide Tony Nwaka, Ph.D
APC House of Representatives Candidate.

Delta accesses N30bn from N150bn bridging finance

Delta Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Tuesday, said his administration has accessed N30 billion out of the N150 billion that it applied for from a financial institution under the 'Bridging Finance' facility.

Okowa disclosed this while answering questions from journalists shortly after inspecting the Koka flyover and Interchange, Stephen Keshi Stadium, the Leisure Park and Film Village as well as the Dennis Osadebey University, all in Asaba.

He said N25 billion out of the N30 billion 'Bridging Finance' loan already accessed by the state government had been deployed into some ongoing projects while the remaining N5 billion was channelled into the payment of pensioners in the Bureau for State Pensions and the Local Government Pensions Bureau.

According to him, local government pensioners were not under the state's purview, adding that the money (N2.5 billion) was given to them as grant from the state government.

"On the Bridging Finance, as at today, we have only been able to access N30 billion of it and we have deployed it into various projects.

"We also have directed that N2.5 billion from that N30 billion be given to Bureau for State Pension and a grant of N2.5 billion to the Local Government Pension Bureau to help off set pensioners debt.

"Local Government Pensioners are not under us but it is an assistance in grants to help soften the monies being owed local government pensioners," Okowa said.

On the level of work at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, the governor said he was impressed with the pace of work and called on the contracting firm to redouble efforts so as to complete the various projects before November 24, this year.

He said Delta was set to host the National Sports Festival without any hitch, stressing that the upgrade of sporting facilities in the stadium was to meet international standards and advised those peddling fake news on the collapsed structure to base their reports on facts and not hearsay.

"We were also at the stadium and a lot of work is going on there. They have reassured me that they would be out of that place by the 24th of November.

"And I pray that they are able to do that because the games would start on the 30th of November. We are able to see the main bowl and the tracks that are being replaced.

"You also noticed that the swimming pools, the main one and the warm up one have gone very far. There is also additional spectators stand which I am told will be ready in another week from today.

"The two indoor sports halls is where I have my fears but I have been reassured that by the 24th of November, they would both be ready for the games," the governor said.

At the Dennis Osadebey University, the governor commended the contracting firms handling various projects in the institution for maintaining standard, pointing out that the vision of his administration was to ensure that the state owned tertiary institutions surpassed other universities in the country in terms of infrastructure and quality manpower.

'We have also seen the Faculty of Agriculture building and the auditoriums, 500 seater and the two 250 seaters. They have informed me that by the end of the year, they should be through with the project.

"By the end of December, Dennis Osadebey University will be wearing a new look. You recall that when it was approved as a university, it looked more like a secondary school.

"But the difference is gradually being seen today. As we walked passed, we could see that the Vice Chancellor and his team have moved into the administrative building which was just completed," he added.

On the Koka flyover and interchange and the Asaba Leisure Park and Film Village, Okowa said the projects would be ready for use before the end of the year.

He said the Koka flyover and interchange would, on completion, address the perennial human and vehicular traffic at the Koka Junction while the Leisure Park and Film Village would stimulate sustainable tourism development in the state capital.

Deflating the opinion of those who said nothing has been done in the riverine communities, the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate reeled out major projects executed by his administration to include construction of roads, bridges and other infrastructure that had brought a new dawn to oil bearing communities.

"The opposition will always look for something to say. I have heard them say that nothing has been done in Asaba and even Delta State as a whole.

"And I begin to wonder if they are blind or they have not gone round Delta State. Some of these things could be very annoying and most times, I do not respond to them.

"But occasionally, one needs to. I have just been briefed that the oppositions are trying to go to the riverine areas to see if some of the projects I have mentioned are true.

"And you all know that these projects are true because you travel with me. The Vice President of this country has also come several times, to inaugurate projects deep down in the rivers," the governor said.

He, therefore, advised critics to uphold integrity and truth in their campaigns, affirming that nothing would derail him from attracting equal development to all parts of the state.

The Governor was conducted round the various projects by the representatives of the contracting firms as well as some members of the State Executive Council.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/11/weve-accessed-n30bn-from-n150bn-bridging-finance-delta-govt/amp/

Delta to empower 5,000 artisans in 2023 - Okowa

As part of deliberate measure aimed at extricating Deltans from poverty, Delta State Government, on Tuesday, said it would scale up the number of Artisans in its empowerment programme from 2,500 to 5,000 from the 2023 fiscal year.

Delta State Governor and the Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa made the pledge while speaking at the 2022 Empowerment Day for Delta State Chapter of the Artisans Association of Nigeria.

Okowa said the only way to grow the economy was for government at all levels, donor agencies and well meaning individuals to invest in the growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSEs).

He said he was glad with the input of Artisans in the economic emancipation of the nation and pledged to rally round them in turning the fortunes of their businesses into viable enterprises.

"I am truly very glad that today, we are witnessing another day for the Artisans in Delta State.

"When I did come for the programme last year, I was truly very excited that the Artisans in Delta have been able to form themselves into a great association.

"I thank the Chairman and the various leaders of the artisan groups in Delta for accepting to come together. Because in coming together, you are able to build yourselves together.

"And in coming together, you have strength. Today, you are gathered here yet again and it is still another exciting moment.

"This country can only grow when we are able to lift our people from poverty, to a place where they can find a space and say of a truth, we are standing and are able to take care of our families," he said.

According to him, 2,500 Artisans have so far been empowered for year 2022, emphasising that the number was doubled for next year because of the determined effort of his administration to kick poverty and unemployment out of the state.

Governor Okowa, therefore, reminded youths and artisans on the need to be committed in their businesses and career so as to get to the zenith of their desired goals.

He said more Deltans would be lifted out of poverty in the remaining days of his administration, even as he sued for the sustained support of all Deltans in building a stronger Delta.

"We must learn to lift our people from the very micro level and cause them to grow gradually but steadily to a state where they can say they have defeated poverty and it is a gradual process.

"I am sure that we understand that we have to work hard to commit ourselves to that gradual process of building ourselves and families so that with time, all of us will collectively defeat poverty.

"We are going to double the Artisans that are being empowered by the state government from 2,500 to 5,000 Artisans for year 2023.

"I thank all of you who are involved in one legitimate business or the other. As a government, we will continue to encourage our people and be a responsible government to them.

In his remarks, the Chief Economic Adviser to the governor, Dr Kingsley Emu said investing in artisans was a very viable project, pointing out that the Okowa led administration had created thousands of direct and indirect jobs in its empowerment programmes.

Dr. Emu disclosed that so many urban and rural communities have been connected with good network of roads and bridges which, he said, had culminated in the growth of businesses, just as he challenged artisans to maximise government's empowerment programmes to grow their businesses.

Earlier, the State Chairman and National President of Artisans Association of Nigeria, Comrade Ifeanyi Abanum said the event was to thank the governor for the empowerment of its members and assured him of their unalloyed support in his political aspiration in 2023 and beyond.

In another development, the Presidents General of various communities in Delta State had earlier met with the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Patrick Ukah where they endorsed the Atiku/Okowa joint presidential ticket

Highlight of the event was the presentation of award of excellence in good governance to Governor Okowa by the association and other groups.

2023: Nigerians Tired Of Hunger, Poverty - Delta PDP Chair

Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Delta State, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso on Monday said Nigerians were tired of excruciating hunger, poverty, and insecurity and would do anything to sack the inept All Progressives Congress APC-led Federal Government.

Esiso who stated this at the Delta South Senatorial District ward-to-ward campaign in Warri, charged members to deliver all candidates of the party in the 2023 general elections.

He said Nigerians were prepared to sack the APC-led Federal Government come 2023 because of their incompetence which had led Nigerians into serious hunger, acute poverty, and unabating insecurity.

"Our economy has collapsed under the Buhari administration and Nigerians have resolved and are willing to vote for a President and Vice-President of PDP extraction and fortunately for us in Delta, the next Vice-President is our son and our dear Governor, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

"With Okowa in Aso Rock, the Warri-Benin road, Amukpe to Agbor, and the Warri Port will not remain like that.

"Deltans want to have our son in Aso Rock without hindrance so I appeal to you to vote for the PDP in all the elections," he said.

On the Governorship election in the State, the State Party Boss called on Deltans to reject the APC and whatever they represent, adding that the people of the State would not reinforce failure.
"Coming to Delta, I am aware that some political rascals are patrolling Delta State boasting that they want to continue with the poverty and hardship Buhari is foisting on Nigerians.

"Let us not give them that chance my people of Delta South, in this our Delta, there is only one party which is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) others are pretenders.

He commended former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for endorsing the party’s Governorship candidate, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, adding that when the lions come out of their den, other animals scamper to safety.

Director of the State PDP Campaign Council, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon appealed to the people of the Delta South Senatorial District particularly Warri South to show their capacity by voting for all candidates of the party in the coming elections.

He said that only a PDP administration can change the current narrative of hunger and hopelessness that pervades the entire country.

He said that since the Buhari and APC administration took over the reigns of power in 2015, Nigerians have been visited with serious challenges ranging from wide-scale insecurity and hunger with Nigeria becoming the Global Headquarters of poverty.

Funkekeme who is Senior Political Adviser to the Governor said next year's election provides a good opportunity for the people to sack the APC-led administration at the centre and bring back the PDP to rescue, reset and rebuild the Country.

Also speaking Chairman of the party in the Senatorial district, Chief Julius Takeme said the Okowa administration had done a lot in infrastructural and human capital development, youth, and women empowerment as well as appointments.

He urged the people to support the Atiku Abubakar and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa ticket to rescue and rebuild Nigeria from the maladministration of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The campaign train which started at Ubeji also visited Ogunu, Ekurode-Urhobo, Ugbuwangue, and Okere, Warri GRA wards, was attended by State Deputy Chairman of the party, Val Arenyeka, Senatorial candidate of the party, Hon. Michael Diden, Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, member representing Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency Hon. Nicholas Mutu.

Others are the House of Representatives candidate for the Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko, Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Ferguson Onwo, Chairman of Media and Publicity Committee of the State PDP Campaign Council, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, among others.