Ukodhiko’s phenomenal plan for youth engagement

The development of youth leadership is critical to building civic capacity and long-term community sustainability. When youths develop useful skills and build self-confidence, we establish capable, effective leaders for the next generation.

The PDP House of Representatives candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Engr Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has said his representation if elected, will include youths in governance and for this he has designed a programme to create a model of youth empowerment through direct participation in the Federal Constituency. He said the overall goal is to bring a youth voice to community issues while developing confident, independent, and motivated youth leaders.

Youth in governance simply means youths and adults working together in positions of authority to make decisions and take action to strengthen organizations, communities and society.

The engagement of youths in governance is imperative because it has been identified that two top priorities which emphasizes public support for the role of youths in building healthy communities and a vital democracy includes: Creating a culture in which youths are equal partners in decision making and governance; and Encouraging youths for community service and civic involvement.

Data from a 2010 Search Institute study, “Developmental Assets: A Profile of Your Youth", documented that only 20 percent of youths perceive that their community values the youth; and only 24 percent believe that youths are given useful roles in the community. These results were among the lowest of all the assets measured and were lower than similar assets measured at a national level.

In direct response to these results, the PDP flag-bearer for the Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko has agreed to involve youths massively in governance by engaging them with various leadership roles and positions.

The benefits of these engagement for the Isoko youths are enormous including; Youth volunteers have a voice in decisions that affects them; As youths become stakeholders and change agents in communities and organizations, they bring perspectives, knowledge and relationships that lead to better decisions and more productive action; Youths in governance promotes positive outcomes among youths. It teaches the skills of active citizenship such as understanding how decisions are made and how to organize, plan, and communicate; and finally our civil society is strengthened when youths become informed and thoughtful citizens. Young people with skills, knowledge, commitment, and experience can reflect upon the common good, become full members of their communities, and take political action.

For an all inclusive governance and representation, let’s support, mobilize, canvas and vote Pst. Ukodhiko Jonathan Ajirioghene for House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency, come 2023.

I’m DIO, Oghale Emejoereda Emeka Rex
Writing from Uzere Ward 04.

Insecurity: Nigeria sliding into anarchy - Udoka

Following the recent happenings in Nigeria regarding insecurity, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta on Security Matters, Engr Emmanuel Udoka has said Nigeria is sliding into anarchy, urging intervention to rescue it from the hands of bandits, terrorists and other non state actors.

Udoka, who stated this during an interview with Delta Times, said that Tinubu and the entire APC structure were dwarfed of ideas and all it takes to govern a complex nation like Nigeria.

According to him, Buhari and his APC have taken Nigeria 20 years backward and it will take only an experienced and seasoned administrator like Atiku Abubakar to bring Nigerians out from the clueless government.

He said, "In one night, terrorists attacked the convoy of President Buhari's advance team in Katsina & the Kuje Prisons, in Kuje Area Council of Abuja.

"The attack on President Buhari's convoy whether advance or not does not mean much, what truly matters for me is the temerity and the fact that they can dare.

"This is a few days after the attack in Shiroro where several military personnel were killed.

"I won’t be surprised if the terrorists head to Aso Rock presidential villa and demand for the keys.

"We cannot continue like this, we are already seeing political damage control but Nigerians know that such cannot help the fizzling All Progressives Congress," Udoka stressed.

He said the Federal Government lacked the goodwill to deal decisively with the terrorists across the country.

"What explanation can the APC give Nigerians for failing to decisively tackle terrorists, insurgents and bandits who are daily ravaging our communities, killing and maiming our compatriots in various states across the country, despite the huge resources at their disposal?

"Due to their incompetence and compromises, hundreds of Nigerians, including school children are languishing in kidnappers’ den at the mercies of their assailants and the elements yet they are not perturbed.

"Recently, 11 Nigerians that was kidnapped from Train attack was freed after 3months with their political abductors. What a country!

"I am not seeing any difference between Tinubu and Buhari. In my comparison, i will say that Buhari is even the better Devil compared to the man we all saw shaking like cocoyam leaves while delivering his campaign speech on the day of APC presidential primaries."

He urged Nigerians to prepare ahead to vote out the APC at all levels as they have proved incapable of managing the nation’s economy.

"A bag of rice that was 9,000 but now sold for 34,000 to 36,000, every commodity in Nigerian markets, now 400% higher than when PDP was in power.

"In legal parlance, APC’s campaign mantra, eradication of corruption and insurgency, and revamping the economy, translated to their undertaking to achieve many of the provisions contained in Chapter II of 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution), that is, the very essence of governance, the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, particularly Section 14(2) (b) thereof, the security and welfare of the people, and in record time too."

He said several years later, not much can be said to have been achieved in this regard.

"Failure to keep such important promises, has definitely had an adverse effect on the credibility of government. If anything, the situation in the country has deteriorated.

"To make matters worse, all Nigerians have been hearing from the APC, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and other Presidential spokespersons, are nothing more than excuses and the blame game – The PDP’s corruption is the cause of all our problems bla bla bla!

"When a person starts to blame everything and everyone else but himself for his failures and inadequacies, never taking responsibility, whatever trust you reposed in such a person dissipates rapidly.

"And, when such a person cannot perform the simplest tasks satisfactorily, then you not only see the person as unreliable, incapable and inept, one starts to question ones own sense of judgement in the first place.

"In military, it is said that it is suicidal to reinforce failure. The 2021 Global Peace Index published by the Institute for Peace and Economics ranked Nigeria at 146 out of 163 countries, only better than countries like Iraq, Syria, Libya, Afghanistan, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Russia, which are typically known to have been conflict areas for a long time.

"The security challenges are continuing to spiral into general lawlessness and anarchy and we offer our prayers for Nigeria and Nigerians at this trying moment because things are not working in the areas of security and economy." Udoka stated.

Okowa’s performance in Delta superlative, says Ifeajika

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Delta, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Thursday said Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s performance in the state in the last seven years had been widely acknowledged as impressive contrary to criticism in some quarters.

Indeed, Ifeajika, who spoke as a guest on "Bridge Parliament" programme on Bridge Radio, Asaba, described the governor’s delivery of democratic dividends to people of the state as ``superlative’’.

According to him, prior to his emergence as governor, Okowa promised to give prosperity to all Deltans and he has since delivered on that, with thousands of youths engaged in entrepreneurship endeavours and doing well.

He said that OKowa’s administration deliberately set up multiple empowerment programmes to make youths self-reliant and employers of labour.

Ifeajika recalled that when the governor assumed office in 2015, there was crave for white collar jobs, with everyone pushing to be in government employment.

``But, the openings in government work were few and have remained so across the country. So, the governor decided to give serious attention to self-employment schemes, empowering the younger persons to fend for themselves, and seven years after, the testimonies are out there.

``And as it stands today, no fewer than 128,000 youths have been taken out of the streets as a result of the various job-creation programmes,’’ he said.

On flooding in Asaba, the spokesman said that Okowa had tackled the menace by embarking on storm water drainage projects in the capital territory, adding that more flood control measures were being undertaken to totally eradicate the problem.

He stressed that with the success recorded in Asaba, the state government had moved to replicate the same feat in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun, and urged residents of the areas to be patient with government as it addressed the flood menace.

``The Asaba storm water project is an audacious project embarked upon by the Okowa-administration and because it was successful in Asaba, it has been replicated now in Warri and Uvwie areas and it’s being done in two phases.’’

On road construction, he scored his boss high, saying "for the first time in the state, a government, incidentally, one headed by Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, took road development to the creeks where nobody thought it was possible to do so.

"He did it believing that the oil we have in the state comes from that part. Over 20.28km of road linking Obotebe 1 & 2 through to Yokri, Sokebulou and Ogulagha, all inside the Atlantic Ocean has been constructed.



``Okowa’s government did it and today they are grateful to him for that gesture.

"From 2015 to date, the Okowa administration has constructed no fewer than 1,995 kilometres of road and no fewer than 1,000 kilometres of drains and culverts and we are still counting because up till May 28, 2023, roads will still be constructed and inaugurated.

"The flagship of all the projects is the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat. It is a wonder in the whole of Africa and when Vice President Yemi Osinbajo came to inaugurate the project, he was surprised that such a magnificent project could be executed in Delta.’’

On completion of ongoing projects, Ifeajika assured that the Koka Flyover and Interchange would be completed this year, adding that it would certainly be delivered before the administration would wind up.

"For any project embarked upon by this administration, there is a projection for completion; we don't have the plan of leaving any project uncompleted,"

On the implementation of the anti-open grazing law in the state, the governor's spokesman said that efforts were being made by the Implementation Committee to operationalise the law.

Ifeajika also said that state police was the way to go as measure to curb current insecurity plaguing the nation, and therefore urged the Federal Government to expedite action in that regard.

2023: Ukodhiko will add value to life

As the 2023 election draws near, the candidate of the PDP in House of Representatives, Engr Pastor Ukodhiko Jonathan Ajiroghenei is a man that is known for employment and empowerment which adds value to life. This he intends to do through creating the Isoko Investment Company to drive industrialization that will create job and empower the people.

As a man who survives from the private sector, Ukodhiko also talked about the need to stop gas flaring by using the gas to generate electricity for industrialization.

Communities in the Niger Delta have sufficient gas and if harnessed would be a great source of employment generation. This he intends to legislate upon if elected. Ukodhiko has ability and technical know-how to turn this to investment.

Ukodhiko has promised job opportunities from the side of government. For instance, federal ministries, agencies and parastatals would be open to employment and he has assured that Isoko would be engaged.

He also intends to look the way of the presidential amnesty program. Here there are chances we need to harness and we will be happy for it. For example, there are amnesty program for non violent which takes the form of education and training. Our people would get free education and training in the amnesty program.

It is on this note that we call on everyone of you to give your votes to Pastor Engr Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko to represent us at the green chambers for equitable, productive and progressive representation.

Vote Ukodhiko
Vote PDP (sent with love effect)

Azilo Isaiah Ogunye
Emevor ward 07
Emevor

Ukodhiko's Agenda For Isoko Youths

By Akpodhoma Michael Mikoko

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP for the position of Isoko Federal Constituency in the forthcoming general election, Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has identified involvement of Isoko youths in governance if elected.

First, good governance has been identified as one of the numerous challenges facing Nigeria political system. Nigeria as at today is battling developmental problems. It's no news that good governance is associated with democracy. In Nigeria after two decades of democratic experience, the system of government has not yielded much desired good governance for the Nigerian youths. This is because democracy in Nigeria is practiced in such a way that responsible, competent and the productive youths population are not engaged much in the democratic governance.

In Nigeria there is lack of trust of youths in governing institutions and political leadership, though of late the Isoko youths have been engaged in certain positions through political appointments among others yet the level of youth involvement is still low despite the fact that the modern Isoko youths are well endowed with needed modern technological knowhow and skills to make a difference.

The need to give them more opportunities in other key sectors to make impact in the mainstream development and governance of the state and country can't be overlooked. There are variety of factors underpinning youth engagement in governance in Nigeria. For instance, there is lack of quality education for the youths at all levels, lack of scholarship opportunities, employments, security among other elements.

There is the general belief that the issue of governance, development issues and policy design is for experts and youths do not have the expertise, skills and the drive for power. This perception has alienated the youth from most engagements in governance not only in Isoko, Delta state but the country at large. In most cases youths are often counted as a lost generation, marginalised, frustrated and suffered from decision making bodies and policy making institutions despite the fact that youth population make up more than half of the county’s population, successive governments since independence have continued to marginalize the youth demography in Nigeria.

It must be stated that, no sustainable development and good governance can be achieved without engaging the youth population most especially in the new normal world where engagement and other activities of governance are digitalised, this is because the new world order advocated for innovativeness, proactiveness and adaptation.

Therefore, judging from the seven-point agenda of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, there is more hope for the Isoko youths.

Conclusively, the hindrances of youth engagement makes it very clear that no democratic institutions can have claim to be legitimate and proper if youths are marginalized and left out of democratic processes, this among others Jonathan Ukodhiko will address for the Isoko youths when elected.

2023: Ukodhiko and the imperatives of purposeful representation

By Nelson Egware


The 2023 general election is fast approaching. And, for Nigerians another opportunity beckons to choose their next set of leaders and representatives to steer the ship of state from the rubble of neglect, backwardness, nepotism, grave insecurity and ineptitude in governance.

During twenty-three years of unbroken democratic rule since 1999, expectations were high that Nigeria, as the most populated black nation in the world, would march decisively to her well-deserved coveted seat in the comity of nations.

Ironically, however, the nation's expected journey to glory turned out to be a march to folly and the glimmering hope of grandeur dimmed into thick darkness of gloom. Untold hardship, pervasive suffering and poverty have been the inevitable consequence, which has become the defining physiognomy of the continental giant Nigeria would have become. The situation keeps worsening by the day, especially in the last seven years of the rudderless All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership at the centre.

With depreciating human development index and the country having the misfortune of being ranked as third worst-governed nation in the world in the new global good governance index in 2021, there is little to cheer about.

The continent of Africa is generally picking up economically and accounting for six of the world’s ten fastest growing economies in 2018, according to the World Bank. Sadly, Nigeria was not among these upwardly mobile economies; and, she was simply dismissed as “still experiencing negative per capita income growth, weak investment, and a decline in productivity growth.”

Fortunately, Africa’s governments are beginning to develop the required infrastructure and institutions. Across the continent, efforts are underway to improve education and entrench a culture of innovation. Moreover, many political leaders are implementing reforms aimed at improving business conditions in their respective economies.

According to the World Bank’s 2019 Doing Business Index, five of the 10 most-improved countries are in Africa, and one-third of all recorded reforms occurred in Sub-Saharan Africa. Yet, Nigeria is nowhere to be found! The Federal Government is doing practically nothing to speed up international trade and unlock investment and growth benefits especially with the concentration of the nation seaports in Lagos alone.

There is the general belief that Nigeria has been where it is because there have been no leaders and, as Harry S. Truman, one-time President of United States of America said, “Without leaders, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.”

It has become imperative for all who love Nigeria to put all hands on deck, to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in its avowed mission to rescue the nation from the rubble created by the inept APC government in the last seven years.

In the rundown to the primary election for the Isoko Federal Constituency, one man, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, sought to represent the Isoko people as the tenure of the legendary Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor, a former Deputy Majority Leader and Minority Leader of the House of Representatives draws to a close.

Ukodhiko emerged winner of the most keenly contested primary election in the history of the Isoko nation and, perhaps, in the entire Delta State because of the calibre of aspirants in the contest. They were all qualified to wear the big shoes currently adorned by Leo Ogor.

Ukodhiko is honed with a vision to give efficient legislative representation and strive to reposition the Isoko ethnic nationality in mainstream national politics, and to attract good and fair deal for the Isoko Federal Constituency in the Nigerian project.

With a redemptive mission to work diligently and deliver on his legislative responsibilities of lawmaking, Ukodhiko is poised to initiate Bills and sponsor Motions that will not only articulate the hopes and aspirations of the Isoko people but to help consolidate on the nation’s democracy and to also deliver abundantly, concrete dividends of democracy to our dear constituents, the good and supportive people of Isoko Federal Constituency.

For instance, Ukodhiko envisions an Isoko transportation sector that is viably sustainable through Private Public Partnership, which will rapidly but positively transform transportation in Isokoland. It shall entail the provision of tricycles, taxi cabs and mass transit buses.

As an astute entrepreneur, it is the vision of Ukodhiko to ensure establishment of industries in Isoko-land and ensure that they are well funded and positioned to provide thousands of job opportunities for our unemployed people, particularly the teeming youth.

Because entrepreneurship is the way out of poverty and unemployment in developing countries like Nigeria, Ukodhiko intends to utilise existing Skills Acquisition and Vocational Centres/ Entrepreneurship to train our gifted and talented youths with requisite skills to make them become not only wealth creators but employers of labour as well. No doubt, this in the long run will improve the socio-economic prosperity and transformation of the people and the area.

Speaking at an event recently, Engr Ukodhiko stated, "My vision is simply to offer quality legislative representation and reposition Isoko nation in mainstream and national politics that will ensure our people of Isoko Federal Constituency benefit more from the Nigerian project.

“Specifically, I have mapped out strategies that will ensure the industrialization of the Isoko nation by encouraging investors and entrepreneurs that will invest massively in Isoko nation by establishing industries and factories that will see to the creation of empowerment and employment opportunities for our teeming people.

“It is very possible to have an Isoko Investment Company like the Oodu’a investment companies in the Yoruba axis in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria.

“This initiative is prime in my heart as I am already devising strategies on how to to meet with Isoko sons and daughters who have made it economically, to team up and float the Isoko Investment Company that I strongly believe will see to the sustainable economic growth of Isoko Federal constituency," Ukodhiko added.

The PDP candidate for the House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency, has assured that if elected as a representative of the Isoko people in the National Assembly in Abuja, he will ensure the Isoko Development Union (IDU) and our highly respected traditional rulers enjoy a pride of place as they would remain central to his engagements in the House of Representatives in Abuja. He will engage presidents-general of communities to ensure that only projects of concrete economic value to the people are attracted to such communities.

To our dear Isoko people, therefore, one would say, behold your son! A professional engineer, astute businessman of international acclaim and a minister in the temple of God; a loving and caring family man, a philanthropist of great repute; Engr. Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko. Let us vote him all the way as the PDP candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency come Saturday February 25, 2023 as our Representative, to ensure effective representation of the Isoko people as enshrined in his manifesto.

A vote for Ukodhiko is a vote for a new dawn in Isoko nation.

2023: Ukodhiko the man with Isoko vision

In modern Nigeria society (mostly in southern Nigeria) it's very rare to find young or middle aged people that have succeeded in their line of businesses to be humble and respectful to family relatives, leaders across board, friends and the general society.

But here comes a man, Pastor Engr. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, 2023 candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, baptized with respect and service to humanity.

He actually belongs to his own class and despite all the success made in his line of business he still remain committed to friends, family relatives, leaders, the common Isoko man and the general society.

No wonder there's a biblical record in Colossians 1:4 saying, "Because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love which you cherish towards all God's people.

Ukodhiko, has great love for the people of Isoko Nation and he has demonstrated it by submitting himself to serve God's people for effective and quality presentation at the green chambers of the National Assembly come 2023.

In the course of consultation with stakeholders before and after the primary elections, he spoke passionately about his love for his people and the need to make Isoko Nation a better home for every sons and daughters of the land.

Pastor Engr. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko, who's the immediate past Commissioner for Energy, Delta State, in all ramification has high regard for both the elites and the common man in the street of Isoko communities and the Isoko's living abroad.

X-raying, his love towards God's people many are convinced that he will be committed to attract the much clamoured meaningful infrastructural development to Isoko land.

There are peculiar factors that distinguished him among his equals. He has broad knowledge of the private sector and a successful businessman in the oil and gas sector, Reverend in God's vineyard and a philanthropist who has dedicated his earnings to humanitarian services of his people and the general public.

And just recently he garnered public sector experience when he served as member of the Delta State Executive Council as Commissioner of Energy for six months under the leadership of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and in his quest to serve his people better he resigned his appointment to contest for the position of House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency primaries under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and won.

From his reputation there's no doubt that he will make good and effective representation that will be encouraging to every sons and daughters of Isoko land.

I therefore encourage all Isoko sons and daughters to go into the streets of our communities and household to preach the Ukodhiko 2023 gospel of effective representation.

...If you hear UKODHIKO 2023 MATA tell another.

~~Odio-Odio
Ozoro ward 009, Isoko North LGA.

2023: Osun victory signposts PDP's rescue mission determination - Okowa

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, said the party's victory in Osun governorship poll was a pointer to its readiness to rescue the country from mal-administration and government insensitivity.

The governor stated this while addressing PDP faithful at a mega rally at Ozoro, on Saturday, and affirmed that PDP remained the only party that could return Nigeria to better days.

He assured that contrary to insinuations in some quarters, PDP was strong, virile and united in the state, adding that what was playing out was democracy-in-action.

"I am glad that some of our friends have come to join us in this revolution to rescue Nigeria.

"The victory of our party last week Saturday in Osun is just the beginning of the revolution to rescue Nigeria and to return us to the path of growth.

"In the last seven years, it has not been too well with us as a nation, but we know that God has come to our rescue and it's just for the PDP to take it and run with it; that sign has already started with our victory in Osun.

"Last Saturday, you listened, you watched and you waited for the result in Osun S. We went to the heartland of the APC in Yoruba land to make a statement and to God be the glory.

"They did not give PDP a chance; the APC thought it was a done-deal but God showed His mighty hand and when the results started coming, it was unfortunate for the APC.

"That is just the beginning and I must thank Nigerians who have come to realise that something has gone wrong and that we need rescue and there is only one party that can rescue Nigeria as at today and it is the PDP," the governor said.

He pointed out that PDP was the only party with the most experienced candidate and urged Nigerians to support the party's rescue mission.

According to him, when you look at all the persons they have brought out, you can see the distinction; we need a man who is calm with a lot of experience; somebody who knows what to do from day one.

"And, if you look at it very well, only one man fits the bill and that's why we are talking about the 'Atikulate Revolution'.

"I heard some people saying that PDP is dying in Delta State and I wonder why they are deceiving themselves.

"We are not boasting but on the day of election, our people will come out and vote and in the next election we are going to win all available seats - from the Assemby to the Presidential.

"In 2019 they got two local government areas but in 2023 we will win the entire 25 local government areas.

"Whatever is going on in the party today is a normal democratic process; so, there is nothing to worry about, no cause for alarm and no cause to fear," he stated.

The governor thanked PDP's presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for nominating him as his running mate, and assured him that Deltans would support the Atiku-Okowa ticket.

"We thank God that a very experienced presidential candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, picked one of your own as his running mate and we give God the glory.

"When it's time for campaign we will come out to campaign but one thing is that Atiku has done well for the people of South-South, South-East and the people of South-West because we stand for all and he has done well for us.

"2023 is about the youths and women of Nigeria and we cannot continue to suffer and stay hungry. We must definitely move forward," he stated.

Welcoming party faithful earlier, the state's Chairman of PDP, Chief Kingsley Esiso, said the primary purpose of the rally was to receive defectors from other parties.

He said that Nigerians could no longer tolerate a party that had divided Nigeria along ethnic, religious and regional lines.

"People are hungry and angry, and in the midst of that, APC showed its desperation and insensitivity by coming up with a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

"In Northern Nigeria, Christians constitute no fewer than 40 per cent of the population, yet APC said they couldn't find a Christian to be vice-presidential candidate.

"Nigerians will not answer them, we will wait till 2023 and answer them with our votes using our PVCs.

"Our people have seen with their eyes what Governor Okowa has done in Delta," he said.

On the governorship tussle in the state, Esiso urged party faithful to remain calm, adding that INEC had asked stakeholders to maintain calm until the entire court processes were exhausted.

"As the state Chairman of this great party, it is my responsibility to educate our people on developments in the party.

"Some weeks ago our party conducted one of the freest and fairest governorship primaries in Delta state and a candidate emerged and our party has dutifully submitted the name of that candidate.

"It is our responsibility to stand and defend the outcome of that primary. The issue before the court has nothing to do with the integrity and credibility of that primary.

"By the action of INEC yesterday(Friday), we have been told in PDP to wait patently for the outcome of the court judgement," he stated.

The rally was attended by, Minority Leader of House of Representatives, Chief Ndudi Elumelu, Speaker of the state's House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, among others.

The defectors to the PDP, who were in large number were led by Chief Fred Obe and his Grassroot Unity Movement; Chief Solomon Omene, Chief Gladys Agba, Amb. Nwaham Iwendi and APGA State Secretary, Chief A.T. Okrakpo among others.

They apologised for contributing to the emergence of a tyrannical party in APC and pledged to be part of PDP' rescue mission.

July 23, 2022

Press Statement

2023: PDP Has Valid Governorship Candidate in Delta State

…As Party Charges Deltans to Disregard Social Media Speculations

The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to speculations in a section of the social media that our Party had disobeyed an Order of Court with regards to our Governorship candidate in Delta State and that our Party do not have a candidate for the 2023 Governorship election in the State.

For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP makes it abundantly clear and states in very precise and categorical term that our Party had not disobeyed any Order of Court and we have a valid Governorship candidate for the Delta State governorship election in 2023.

However, in the interest and due information of our teeming supporters and the general public, our Party clarifies as follows;

In line with the new Electoral Act, submission of names of candidates is no longer physical but by electronic transmission to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Under the electronic process, INEC grants access to its portal to political parties to electronically upload its candidates’ information/particulars; which access for governorship candidates closed on Friday, July 15, 2022.

With reference to Delta State, our Party duly submitted and uploaded the name of Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor as the Delta State Governorship candidate of the PDP onto INEC Portal on Friday, July 8, 2022.

On July 18, 2022, three days after the closure of access to the INEC Portal, our Party and INEC received a Court Order directing the substitution of the name of Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor with another name. However, given the closure on July 15, 2022, our Party had no access to the INEC Portal

Subsequently, the PDP and INEC were served with Court of Appeal processes comprising; Notice of Appeal, Motion for Stay of Execution and Records of Appeal filed by the candidate whose name was initially uploaded by the Party onto the INEC Portal.

It is instructive to state that under the INEC guideline, the last day for effecting any change of names of candidates for the 2023 general election is September 28, 2022.

For emphasis, the PDP currently has a candidate for the 2023 Governorship election in Delta State. If there be any change drawing from the outcome of the judicial processes, such will be duly and appropriately reflected in compliance with the Order of Court. The PDP as a law-abiding Party has always and will continue to comply with Orders of Court in every matter and situation.

Our Party therefore urges our members, teeming supporters and the people of Delta State to disregard the speculations and remain focused on the platform of the PDP in their determination to consolidate on the achievements of the Governor of Delta State and our Vice-Presidential Candidate, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

The PDP is fully prepared for the 2023 general elections in Delta State as well as across the nation and will emerge victorious at the polls.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

Why we reviewed projects' costs - Okowa

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday, said his administration reviewed cost of some ongoing projects in the state due to inflation and rising cost of construction materials.

Speaking to journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing construction of Isheagu-Ewulu road and bridge in Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state, Okowa said that current economic indices in the country had taken negative tolls on every segment of activities and therefore, made review of the contracts' values inevitable.

He said that the road and bridge when completed, would serve two major agrarian communities of Isheagu and Ewulu.

The governor stated that contract for the project was awarded in January, 2021 and would be completed in December, 2022, adding that 4.7-kilometre Isheagu section already reconstructed.

He also said that from the bridge to Ewulu another fresh section of 4.4 kilometres of road would be constructed.

"With what is going on in Nigeria now, the inflation rate is very high and it is affecting every other thing, particularly construction of infrastructure.

"Most of our contractors are actually struggling, so we had no option than to review the rate because inflation has risen as much as 18.6 per cent and that is actually affecting every aspect of the life of the people.

"As regards the cost of construction, the high cost of diesel at the moment, asphalt has also gone suddenly very high and of course, to drive most of the motorised equipment you require for construction work, you need a lot of diesel. The cost of rod has also gone up and it's going up by the day.

"Unfortunately, beyond the global tendencies of Russia-Ukraine war which has also devalued our naira and making it to depreciate on daily basis and this goes a long way to affect the original cost of contracts," he said.

The governor, who was conducted round the project by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads) Mr Noel Omodon, explained that government was left with no option than to review the cost of the projects to ensure their timely completion amid biting inflation.

"Having looked at everything, we needed to save the budget and the earlier we find a pathway to completing the projects the better, otherwise the escalation continues even more on a daily basis.

"So, it's quite difficult and we wished we didn't get into the kind of difficulties we are in to, but we have no choice.

"We have started the projects and we have to complete them otherwise the contractors will move out of site and when they move out, to remobilise is at a higher cost and we don't want to go through that route at all.

"It's a very unfortunate situation we find ourselves; it distorts our budgeting and we just hope that we are able to continue realigning our budget to keep pace with the construction that we are undergoing.

"Beyond having the infrastructure in place, it also creates jobs for our young ones and we cannot afford to have the contractors move out of site because it will mean that you are going to take food off the table of families which is also not good for us.

"I have been informed that the project would be completed by the end of December, 2022.

"From what we are seeing, life is coming back to Isheagu from the excitement on the faces of the people because the road would help them to evacuate their farm produce," he stated.

Okowa also inspected ongoing works at the Sector C1 of the Ughelli-Asaba road by Obo River where the contractor said the bridge construction would be completed in October while the road would be ready in December, 2022.

2023: Why PDP has best candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency

The various party primaries have come and gone, candidates have emerged at various levels across Isoko nation. But the truth is, among all contested positions, the Isoko Federal Constituency, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary was the most talked about election across Isoko nation. Nevertheless, the party delegates in their wisdom gave us Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko as the party flag bearer.

As we approach the second aspect of the political journey (the general election) the All Progressives Congress, APC and other mushroom parties are not an alternative parties to represent the Isoko nation at the National Assembly. The reasons are simple, the only time an APC person held position of trust on behalf of Delta state, and Isoko nation. Isoko didn't benefit any single thing from that position till he left office, therefore we can't risk that journey again.

While political parties are mere platforms, but they also go a long way to determine their candidate impacts on the people. Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko despite the odds came out as the candidate of the PDP, is a mark of note. He has been chosen to serve, it's not a mistake, perhaps he was destined to represent Isoko nation at this time. Collectively let's trust him with our support for him to achieve that desired goal for Isoko nation by trusting his dreams, projections and promises for Isoko Federal Constituency.

In 2019, it's true that APC almost had their way in the last House of Representatives general election, but God and the people stood firm. Considering how APC have destroyed the country's economy at the federal level, we must collectively avoid APC in Isoko here. The coming election will be different, because there has been a significant improvement in our electoral process. Rigging and ballot snatching will be drastically reduced. The days of calculating one plus one as five are gone. One plus one must remain two in 2023.

The truth, over the years we look forward to technocrats, successful business men, those who have alternative incomes to hold political positions in Isoko. We now have Ukodhiko, let's use him as our pilot scheme, let's try him and watch out for the results.

PDP has come out with a candidate, let's forget the past, the odds and throw our support in one accord because in a representative democracy, leaders are expected to be associated with popular political affiliations and possess that required charisma to sway public opinion in their favor to get elected into office. The PDP is that political affiliation that is required, naturally technocrats follow a distinct route by taking a data-oriented and research-based approach to solving problems, let's collectively try his capacity come 2023.

Akpodhoma Michael Ajirioghene
Aviara ward 03
Isoko south LG

Aniagwu hails emergence of Unobunjo as Delta NAWOJ Chair

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has congratulated Comrade Sonia Unobunjo on her election as the 5th Chairperson of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State chapter.

In a congratulatory message on Monday, Aniagwu felicitated with the newly-elected NAWOJ chairperson and members of her executive and wished them a successful tenure.

The Commissioner expressed willingness to continue having a robust and sustained working relationship with the ministry and NAWOJ.

"On behalf of management and staff of the Delta State Ministry of Information, I congratulate you on your election as the Chairperson of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State chapter.

"Over the years you have given a good account of yourself as a well trained journalist and comrade in the struggle.

"These years of hardwork and dedication no doubt culminated in the implicit confidence reposed in you and members of your exco by NAWOJ Delta Chapter to lead them.

"It is my wish that you use your good office to foster good working relationship between your colleagues and our ministry and the entire state government.

"As you commence the journey of your leadership of the union, it is my prayer that God will grant you the wisdom to pilot the affairs of the union to glory of God and humanity," Aniagwu stated.

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
ASABA
DELTA STATE

17th July, 2022.

GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

ASABA SPECIALIST HOSPITAL DISCLAIMS RECRUITMENT EXERCISE

The attention of Asaba Specialist Hospital (ASH), has been drawn to a certain information circulating in the social media of a purported recruitment exercise by the hospital.

This is to inform the general public that Asaba Specialist Hospital is not currently carrying out any recruitment.

For the avoidance of doubt, if the hospital intends to carry out any employment exercise, the information will be advertised on major newspapers within the country and also on the hospital's website and social media handles.

The Chief Medical Director, Asaba Specialist Hospital therefore has advised that members of the public should disregard any information that says Asaba Specialist Hospital is currently recruiting.

Theresa Adiabua Oliko
Director of Information

Osun election: Delta PDP Chairman Congratulates Governor-elect, H.E. Senator Ademola Adeleke

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP Delta State, Olorogun Barr Kingsley Esiso , has congratulated H.E. Senator Ademola Adeleke Governor-elect of Osun, on his victory.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr. Edwin Afejuku, Special Assistant (SA) on Media to the Delta PDP chairman, and made available to the Newsmen on Sunday.

He explained that the victory was a result of the popularity of the candidate, as well as the strong campaign strategies put in place by the PDP.

According to Esiso, the governor-elect has the pedigree, experience, and vision to take Osun to the next level of development.

Esiso also thanked the people of Osun for their confidence in the PDP and its candidate H.E. Senator Ademola Adeleke.

The chairman also lauded the leadership of the party for providing the necessary support and guidance for party in the Osun election.

He thanked the Osun PDP campaign council, the state Working Committee of the party, as well as supporters for their hard work, dedication, and vigilance which led to the victory.

JOIN YOUTH COMMISSIONER TODAY

Join Comrade Ifeanyi Michael Egwunyenga the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Delta State as he speaks on Governor Okowa's giant strides on Youth Development Today 15th July 2022 on
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Kpoko--- 100.5fm
8:00am -8:30am

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10:00am- 10:30am

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Illah PDP empowers 300 party faithful in Delta

The leaders of Peoples Democratic Party PDP Ward 3 in Illah, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta, on Sunday empowered no fewer than 300 persons with motorcycles and modern farming equipment.

The gesture by the leaders also included cash gifts ranging from 5,000 to 100,000 to 200 women, youths, villages and camps inhabited by non-indigenes.

The disbursement was done at an enlarged meeting of members of the party drawn from the nine communities in the Ward.

Items given to beneficiaries were 10 motorcycles, 50 agro-chemical spraying machines, 50 cartons of herbicides, 50 cutlasses, and the cash gifts to no fewer than 300 party faithful.

Addressing the mammoth crowd, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika: Director-General, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr Andy Ilabor and PDP House of Assembly Candidate for the local government, Mr Frank Esenwa, said it was part of measures to reward party loyalists for their support over the years.

They said that Oshimili North was the home of PDP and pledged to give 100 per cent votes to the party in the 2023 general elections.

The ward 3 Chairman of the PDP, Mr Nelson Okonma, said the money used for the procurement of the items and cash given to beneficiaries were gotten from the proceeds from delegates from the ward who participated in the recent primaries of the party and contributions from party leaders in the Ward.

The trio called on members of the party to redouble support to enable the town deliver all candidates of the party in the forthcoming elections.

Other speakers lauded the leadership and stakeholders of the party for spreading the empowerment to all parts of the ward and advised other wards and local governments in the state to emulate Ward 3.

At the event, some members of the APC from the ward, including a former councillorship candidate, Mr Anthony Dibia, defected to the PDP.

Receiving the decampees, the Assistant State Organising Secretary of the PDP, Mr Uche Egbuche, said that the party was big enough to accommodate all, and assured them of fair treatment in the scheme of things.

He equally commended the party leadership in Illah for the empowerment of party members, saying it would boost the fortunes of the party in the area.

The leader of the decampees, Dibia, said the achievements of Governor Okowa and his emergence as Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP and Esenwa who is candidate for Oshimili North State Constituency contributed immensely to their decision to defect from their former party.

Highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of the items to beneficiaries, including the motorcycles won through balloting.

Asiuwhu assumes duty as Delta environment commissioner

... Calls for enhanced environmental sustainability

The newly appointed Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Chief Godspower Omafuvwe Asiuwhu has assumed duty with a call on management and staff of the ministry to redouble efforts in ensuring that environmental sanitation was enhanced and sustained.

The commissioner who arrived at the ministry's headquarters, state secretariat, Asaba at about 1.30pm on Friday was received by staff of the ministry headed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Mrs Minnie Oseji.

Chief Asiuwhu who said his cardinal goal was to work with all in giving a new face to the environment, sued for the professional imput of staff in tackling environmental challenges in all parts of the State.

He commended the Permanent secretary, directors and other management staff on their previous achievements in the Ministry and called on them to roll up their sleeves in recording new feat in the Stronger Delta Agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

He equally advised staff to be on their duty post pointing out that indiscipline, gossip, absenteeism and indolence will not be tolerated.

The Commissioner thanked the governor for posting him to the Environment Ministry and vowed to leave lasting legacies in the few months that he will be in office.

Handing over relevant documents to the Commissioner, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Dr Minnie Oseji congratulated him on his appointment, swearing in and assumption of duty and assured him of maximum cooperation of staff in the realisation of set goals.

He said the Ministry has capable hands to drive the vision of the State Government in the environment sector.

Press Release

Sheriffication, the idea that cannot die

It is no longer news that the reports of the verdict of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which purportedly “disqualified” our Principal, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis O. Oborevwori FICMC, from the Delta State gubernatorial race, has sent cold into the feet of many of our members. This is so because many of them have no knowledge of the meat of the matter. Those who have

The truth remains that the case is as useless as a used tissue paper. This is a matter where the court clearly lacks jurisdiction to entertain ab initio. This is a matter the court ought to have thrown away and huge cost awarded against the petitioner at its first hearing. But why the learned jurist decided to take the route of this infamous travesty is what no one can decipher.

We agree that the courts form an integral part of our democratic process. It is factual that the judiciary will continue to rise up to its task of safeguarding and protecting our electoral system against hawks who premeditatedly attempt to circumvent the process to their ill advantage. That is why we are relying on the perspicacity of the appellate court to set aside and quash the obvious travesty of the lower court.

We call on our supporters to remain calm and law abiding. Truly, this too shall pass. The processes to right the wrongs have started and it won’t take long before we completely jump through this hurdle and then proceed to emerge victorious in the poll.

Sheriffication is a statement, an idea, a movement, a tsunami that stands gigantically taller than reach of its adversaries. The Sheriffication Movement (TSM) as a group is clearly unshaken and unbothered by this turn of events. Our projects, plans and actions remain unaltered and our dreams and aspirations as evergreen as ever. Our courtesy visits and schedule of activities remain unaffected. I call on all members and indeed Deltans to see this as a mere storm in a tea cup. Thank you all

TSM- Sheriff Lead we follow

Palmer Ogheneyole Nathaniel
Director-General

Ukodhiko extols Gen. Paul Omu at 82

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives Candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor (Engr.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has felicitated with former Governor of defunct Southeastern State, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (OFR) on his attaining the age of 82 years.

In a message of felicitation on Friday, at his Otor-Igho country home, Ukodhiko extolled General Omu for his patriotic zeal and visionary acumen, describing him as “a soldier’s soldier“

For him, “our leader, General Paul Omu, stouthearted, ever persevering and foresighted, commissioned on July 25, 1963 through hardwork and merit rose to the pinnacle of the nation’s military profession”

“Displaying a highly commendable military ability, retired but not tired General Omu served our nation and our state with all his strength, intelligence and zeal”

“A committed federalist and nationalist, he was military Governor of Southeastern State (1975-1978), Commandant, Command and Staff College, Jaji (1985-1988), member of the Armed Force Ruling Council (AFRC), and Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS”

“As a visionary he was associated with footprints among which were the Margaret Ekpo International Airport and the University of Calabar (UNICAL) that were built and established during when he was a governor of the Southeastern State”

The former Delta Energy Commissioner, Ukodhiko stated that, General Omu’s remarkable military career climaxed in the 1990s but never stopped serving the nation Nigeria and his Delta State.

“It was General Omu who headed the AFRC’s sub-commmittee that gave the recommendations that saw to the establishment of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) in 1993 and, much later he was appointed as the chairman of the Governing Council of NIPSS”

“Visionary and dynamic he was appointed as a member of the 2020 Delta State Vision Committee, and he was a member of the 2014 National Conference at Abuja”

“In partisan politics, he contributed to the growth and stability of our party, the PDP, most significantly as the Chairman of the South-South Reconciliation Commitee in 2008”

“Being a patriot, the lot to ensure the unity and advancement of the Isoko ethnic nationality saw him becoming the President-General of the Isoko Development Union (IDU)”

“My leader, in thinking of the roles you have played in the development of our nation, your sacrifice and commitment then it would not be out of place to celebrate you on the occasion of your 82nd birth anniversary “

Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko wished General Paul Ufuoma Omu good health, sound mind and more opportunity to serve God and humanity.

Delta approves N400m disbursement to 40 mission schools

Delta Government on Tuesday, announced that it had approved the disbursement of N400 million grant to 40 mission schools in the state to enable them to upgrade and expand their facilities.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, announced this while briefing journalists on some of decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor, Mr Kingsley Otuaro.

Aniagwu who was flanked by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, at the briefing, said that each of the 40 schools would receive N10 million.

He explained that the gesture was part of the state government's deliberate measures to ensure that the schools did not lag in terms of facilities and human capital development effort.

“At today's Exco meeting, a number of decisions were taken and one of them is the approval of disbursement of N400 million grant to 40 missionary schools in the state that were previously being run by the state government before they were handed over to the missionaries.

“That translates to N10 million for each of the 40 missionary schools to enable them improve on their facilities because you do know that in the last seven years, we have taken a lot of effort and time to upgrade a number of schools that are run by the government.

“But, since the return of a number of these schools to the missionaries by the last administration, we had hope that they too, should be able to cope fully. Yes, they had done very well as they have been able to add values to these schools,” Aniagwu added.

He stated that the state executive council also gave approval for the reconstruction of the first phase of the Old Lagos - Asaba road from Umunede to Obior which, according to him, is 7.6 kilometres.

To guarantee the overall success of the 21st National Sports Festival to be hosted in the state, the commissioner said that the government approved the construction of male and female hostels of 240-bed spaces each at the Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, with a view to providing secured accommodation for the athletes.

He added that the council also approved the construction of indoor sports complex inside the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, for short range games for the national sports festival.

“We approved the construction of 240-bed space in Dennis Osadebe University for female and another 240 bed space hostel for male which will house the athletes coming to Asaba for the National Sports Festival.

“The reason for siting them in the university premises is that the hostels will also serve as students' hostels after the sports festival.

“We have also approved the construction of indoor sports complex that would house other games within the Stephen Keshi's stadium,”the commissioner said.

According to him, construction of an additional lecture hall was approved for the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko in Warri South West Local Government Area of the state.

To de-flood the Core Area, Off DSS Road, Asaba, he stated that approval was given for the construction of drainage channels to connect the Asaba storm water control project.

Aniagwu said that six adjoining streets in Asaba were approved for construction with a view to advancing the urban renewal effort of the state government.

Also at the meeting, the government approved the appointment of Johnholt Ologho as the Regent of Emevor Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area of the state.

You've poor knowledge of governance, Okowa tells APC

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, said All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state criticised everything his administration did because it had poor understanding of governance.

Addressing journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing projects at Dennis Osadebey University, Asaba on Friday, the governor said that the main opposition in the state was being mischievous in its criticisms due to ignorance.

The projects inspected included the Administrative Building, Vice Chancellor's lodge, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, lecture auditoriums and the university's main gate.

Okowa assured that the university would wear a new look by December, 2022, when the projects would have been completed.

According to him, when people in Lagos and Abuja say that they are not seeing what we are doing, it is either that they don't come home or that they just want to be wicked in their ways.

"There is a lot going on in our three new universities and we are proud that we took this decision because the new universities have admitted no fewer than 5,000 students within one year of their approval.

"We have also commenced the construction of two hostel projects in the university to accommodate students and it will be useful to us during the National Sports Festival holding in Asaba in November," he said.

On the N25 billion loan for oil palm farmers in the state, he explained that it was not a direct loan to the state government, adding that the government was only acting as guarantor to the farmers.

"It is not a direct loan to the state government; it's unfortunate what critics are saying because they need to be informed and if they had listened at the House of Assembly when it was brought before the lawmakers, the letter was very explicit.

"We have an economic team and when we are satisfied with a plan, we go through the State Exrcutive Council and then to the House of Assembly for approval.

"We are only like a guarantor to the farmers, the oil palm farmers in the state. The loan is to the farmers but the state is acting as a guarantor to them.

"In Akwa-Ibom and Edo States, they have borrowed far more than what our people are asking for.

"This particular loan is from the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN to the oil palm farmers association in Delta State for the development of about 17,700 hectares of oil palm and It's going to be monitored but somebody needed to guarantee it for them and that is just what we have done.

"In guaranteeing them, we followed the same process of approval and that is what we have done," the gôvernor said.

He added that when the letter was written to the House of Assembly, the intention was clearly stated, but that the APC in the state cashed in it as it did with everything, without a clear understanding of what was going on.

"They just jump at everything, they want to criticise everything and I think it is poor knowledge on their part and that is the truth.

"I am wondering that if people are thinking of stepping into governance and they have the kind of mindset that they have in Delta State then it's unfortunate but they are not going to have the opportunity to govern Delta State because we know them and we know ourselves.

"When some of them rise up to talk we know them because we have been in this state before and we know what each and everybody represents.

"So, I try not to talk about persons but they continue to say things that ordinarily they shouldn't say but if you don't want to appreciate good works then you should keep quiet and that is what I expect of them.

"I say so because Deltans appreciate what we are doing and I will like to thank all Deltans because they have continued to partner us to achieve peace and through that peace we are developing our youths, building roads and developing infrastructure in several places.

"Perhaps, when they come around they just restrict themselves to their immediate environment, otherwise they would have seen a lot of things going on.

"If they find their way to the riverine areas, they will possibly respect what we have done in those areas because a lot of our villages that were abandoned before are now liveable cities in the riverine areas.

"The loan they are talking about is a farmers' loan and we are actually as a state government just guarantors to the loan," he stated.

On pensions, Okowa said that only eight states were currently running the Contributory Pension Scheme in the country as 16 states had exited.

He said that the state government inherited a huge backlog of past services as a result of the pension scheme but was doing a lot to defray it.

"When we came into government in 2015, we were owing about N100 billion as past services or accrual services.

"We were able to investigate the sum and it eventually came down to about N88 billion and since then we have been paying N500 million mobthly and we have paid over N36 billion over time.

"Whether we are going to complete the payment within my tenure, that I can't tell but we will continue to do our best.

"Even when we know the difficulty, we have refused to exit that scheme just as other states have done because it would have been much easier to exit and continue with the old pension scheme.

"But we believe in the interest of workers and we want the workers to be able to benefit and we will continue to do what is right.

"We have also made a provision of N20 billion from the proposed bridging finance to see what we can pay down for the past services," he stated.

On politics of 2023, gôvernor said that he would not leave any work undone and encouraged Nigerian youths to embrace the PDP, adding that Nigerians would gain from the success story of the Atiku-Okowa ticket.

"Here in Delta we have focused a lot on our youths and women because they are very important in this nation.

"The entrepreneurial, vocational and technical education programmes that we have had have all been geared towards taking our youths off where they were left in pains and take them out of penury and make them self-sufficient by giving them skills that can make them to stand on their own.

"We didn't just provide them with starter packs, we monitor and mentor them and a lot of successes have been recorded and this we will export to the larger Nigerian nation.

"Reading through the Atiku's document 'My Covenant With Nigerians' what we are doing for our youths here in Delta is clearly captured in his Human Capital Development programme.

"Most other candidates are just busy talking, they don't even have a working document, they are talking just to impress people and that is not the Nigeria that we need today.

"You just tell us where we are and what you intend to do not just to tell us what the challenges are but also the pathway to get us out of the present challenges and all that is contained in the Atiku's document," Okowa added.

PRESS STATEMENT

22ND JUNE, 2022

DELTA 2023: DELTA PDP ANNOUNCES SIR MONDAY ONYEME, AS DEPUTY GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE AND RUNNING MATE TO OUR GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE

Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, hereby announces Sir Monday John Onyeme, FCA, FCTI, JP, as the Deputy Governorship candidate and running mate of our party.

Sir Monday Onyeme, was born on March 30th, 1965, at Ibabu Community of Onicha-Ukwuani in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State. At a very early age in life, he showed a great passion for education, hard work, and spartan discipline.

The search for prompt remediation and positive change in his community and society from ignorance, poverty, and insecurity, took Sir Monday John Onyeme through Primary education at Army Children’s School, Sokoto State, Government Secondary School, Gummi in Kebbi State, Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda in Zamfara State and the University of Calabar, Cross River State, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree (Second Class Upper), in Accountancy.

He also has a Certificate in Information and Communication Technology, and a Master's Degree (M.A.) in Business Management from the Northumbria University in Newcastle, United Kingdom. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Accountancy.

Sir Monday John Onyeme, a Chartered Accountant par excellence, is a Fellow of different professional bodies such as, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), the Institute of Certified Forensic Investigation Professional Faculty (FCFIP), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), etc.

A professional to the core, before his present appointment as the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR), he was the Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria, a position he held for over nine years.

Above all, he is a loyal, dedicated and true party man, totally committed, well respected, and truly beloved in the PDP family. He is also a devout Christian and a complete family man, happily married with lovely children.

Sir Onyeme and our Governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, will pair on our joint ticket, as flagbearers of the PDP, for the 2023 Delta State Governorship election.

Delta State PDP, warmly Congratulates our Deputy Governorship Candidate, Sir Monday Onyeme, on his successful emergence as the running mate to our Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and we have no doubts that this is already a confirmed winning combination for the 2023 Governorship election.

We are now fully ready for the electoral battle in 2023 and by the Grace of God, it will end in praise, as always.

"Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta."

PDP! Power to the People!!

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

Congratulations sir.

To God be the glory!

Ogwah Hails Delta Speaker At 59

By Odio-Odio

Isoko North Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain and Senior Special Assistant, SSA on Political Matters to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Hon. Mike Ogwah has congratulated the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and governorship candidate of the party, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori as he clocks 59 on June 19.

Ogwah, in a statement he personally sign described the Speaker as refined son of the Urhobo extraction and a proactive Deltan with the spirit of one Delta.

"On behalf of my family, friends, well wishes and political associates, I join men of good will and Deltans to congratulate and share in your joy on this special day of your 59th birth anniversary.

"It's a statement of fact that your leadership style in piloting the affairs of the state assembly and the passage of Bills in making lives more meaningful to Deltans by the most vibrant house of state assemblies is highly commendable.

"Mr. Speaker sir, " it's also on record that you have continued to attract people oriented projects to your immediate constituency and the good people of Okpe kingdom".

"There's no doubt that you are working in synergy with His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, in making prosperity for all Deltans and the stronger Delta vision of his administration achievable.

"It's my prayer that the good Lord continue to project you and impact you with more leadership insight and above all grant you good health".

Hon. Mike Ogwah
SSA, On Political Matters to the Governor

Oborevwori at 59: A new dawn beckons, says Ukodhiko

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives Candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko on Sunday, felicitated with the Speaker of the Delta House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on his 59th birth anniversary, saying he “signifies a new dawn for Delta State”

Ukodhiko in a statement said that, “the Speaker of the Delta State Legislature, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori is a Leader whose mettle and strength have all been put to test, and he came out stronger and more determined “

“I must note, his emergence and headship of the State House of Assembly as Speaker for more than five years clearly underscores his capacity, pedigree and experiences, offering what can be termed strategic leadership to the House, which is regarded as the most vibrant State House of Assembly in our country, Nigeria.

“Remarkably, under his headship of both the 6th and the 7th Assembly, he saw to the enactment of countless laws that have helped in facilitating the economic growth and social security of the State in line with the Smart, and presently the Stronger Delta Agenda of the State Government “

“Also, he has ensured a cordial relationship and partnership with the Executive Arm headed by the State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa”

The former Delta Energy Commissioner, Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko stated that, “Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has shown remarkable capacity in handling the delicate matters and affairs of state and I am optimistic he will through a holistic development programmes as encapsulated in his “MORE Agenda” further advance and positively transform our dear State, Delta as Governor come beginning from May 29, 2023”

Assuring of the support and votes of the Isoko nation in his quest to govern the State, Engr Ukodhiko prayed to Almighty God to be with the Delta State PDP Gubernatorial Candidate, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori and grant him good health and wisdom to serve the people of Delta State.

Isoko North PDP congratulates Speaker Oborevwori at 59

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Isoko North LGA Chapter has congratulated the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and governorship candidate of the party, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on his 59th birth anniversary on June 19.

The party in a statement signed by the Chairman of the LGA Chapter, Prince Godwin Ogorugba, described the Speaker as a worthy son of Delta and a dedicated party stalwart astute street credibility.

"On behalf of the LGA Executive, party leaders and the entire membership of our great party in Isoko North Local Government, I congratulate and rejoice with you on this special day of your birth anniversary.

"Your sterling leadership of the State's legislature is an eloquent testimony of the life-changing Bills passed by the vibrant House.

"You have continued to bring honour and goodwill to the state and your good constituents in Okpe Local Government Area are proud of your astute representation.

"As a party we are happy that you won the gubernatorial primary of our party and it is our prayer that you will win in the 2023 general election to become the 4th elected governor of our dear state since the return of democracy in 1999.

"We look forward to greater dividends of democracy and better days for the people of Delta even as you continue to partner with His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in to building a Stronger Delta of our dreams.

"It is our prayer that God almighty will continue to bless you and grant you many more glorious years of service to our people.''

Prince Godwin Ogorugba
Chairman, Isoko North PDP
June 19, 2022

PRESS STATEMENT

16th June, 2022

DELTA PDP CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR OKOWA, AS HE EMERGES PDP VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has congratulated the State Governor, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on his emergence as the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate, on the joint ticket with His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, as Presidential Candidate for the 2023 general elections.

The congratulatory message was contained in a Press Statement by Delta PDP State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which hailed the choice as well-merited and described it as a tremendous call to service, in the quest by the PDP to rescue Nigeria from the suffocating leadership of All Progressives Congress, APC, in 2023.

The statement reads: "Your Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Executive Governor of Delta State and our undisputed leader, Delta State PDP heartily congratulates you, Sir, on your well-deserved emergence and unanimous acceptance, as the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate and Running Mate to our distinguished Presidential Candidate, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 general elections.

"Your emergence, after a rigorous, comprehensive, and highly anticipated process, is not only a clear testimony of the respect, acceptance, and goodwill you command and enjoy amongst your peers, leaders, elders, stakeholders, and teeming membership of our great party, it is most importantly, a tremendous call to service in the quest by the PDP to rescue Nigeria from the suffocating leadership of All Progressives Congress, APC, in 2023.

"We have never doubted your excellent leadership and organizational qualities, the astute and strategic savvy of your all-inclusive political brinkmanship, as well as the articulate, sterling administrative acumen, which we have already witnessed first hand in Delta State, and we are fully convinced you will bring all these to bear in the unbeatable partnership with His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who himself is an accomplished leader, first-class administrator and a globally recognized business mogul and development tzar.

"The unwavering mission to rescue Nigeria and Nigerians from the strangulation of the APC leadership is an urgent, critical responsibility, which cannot be delayed anymore and your presence on the joint ticket, has already engendered a peaceful and calming effect within the party, infused renewed confidence and optimism amongst the masses and established a reassuring balance in the collective hopes and expectations of Nigerians, that the PDP is at last ready, focused and prepared to take on the task ahead, and emerge victorious in the end.

This is your National stage, Your Excellency and as you embark on the campaigns across the length and breadth of the Country with the incoming President, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Nigerians will feel and know and be convinced that they are going to have a Vice President who will speak for the people, stand by the people and is one with the people in 2023 and beyond.

Once again, Congratulations, Your Excellency.

PDP! Power to the People.

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

Delta yet to access N150bn bridging finance

Delta Governor, Sen (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Tuesday said the state government was yet to access the N150 billion bridging finance.

He said that the funds had not reached the State because the Federal Government was yet to commence remittances to the state, contrary to the agreement.

Okowa disclosed this while speaking to newsmen shortly after inspecting ongoing works at the Koka flyover bridge and interchange in Asaba.

He said that the bridge was one of the projects that the bridging finance was meant to cover, adding that "when the money is available, we will be able to use it to upscale these projects.

"The bridging finance is actually a finance that we already have a source of repayment and rather than allow the depreciation of the Naira or the extension of time at work create a cost escalation for us, our intention was to take a bridging finance and then pay back from the monies that the Federal Government owes us.

"But as at today, we have not even accessed the bridging finance because the repayment plan from the Federal Government, which is supposed to have started by January has not commenced; they have not made any remittances to the state.

"Some states have taken a part of their own bridging finance because we are not the only state involved. But for us, we intend to wait until the refund process starts before accessing the bridging finance.

"So, we have not yet accessed that bridging finance at the moment but we have got the approval of the House of Assembly.

"I hear that some of our brothers who don't even understand governance, have tried to critique the situation but unfortunately, when some people don't understand what is in government and how you can save funds for the people, they could talk politics and criticise.

"But I am very confident that whatever we are about to do, we are doing it in the best interest of the state; we are trying to save money for the state, we are trying to save situations where you have cost overrun and cost escalations.

"We do hope that as soon as the first set of refunds come from the Federal Government, we would be able to access the bridging finance to be able to scale up the speed of the major projects that we have as listed before the House of Assembly and utilise the money for some other sources.

"But as at today, we are still coping and we hope that very soon the Federal Government will start the process of refund and we will be in a position to ensure that we speed up all the projects we have."

Okowa explained that a slowdown and depreciation of the naira could be a major disaster because the bridging finance was meant to be a cost saving measure for the state.

On the Koka flyover project, he expressed optimism that the project would be completed in December, 2022.

"I can actually see that work is on schedule and they have gone very far from the briefing that I received from the Commissioner for Works.

"You know that when we came in last, they told me that they would try and finish it in February, next year, but I put a lot of pressure and insisted that we wanted it completed this year.

"The information I received is that they are still working very hard to ensure that they finish the project by the middle of December.

"From what we can see, the super structure of the bridge is already on and a lot of work is being done and by October, it is expected that this would have finished completely.

"And, the work to provide the full interchange with the road network under would also be started in due course. They have promised that they are right on time and that they would be finishing before that end of the year.

"I am quite excited at this because it's quite important to us. More so, when we are anticipating that the sector C2 of the Ughelli-Asaba road would be completed about the same time.

"If there is free flow of traffic coming from Ogwashi-uku end to this place on a dual carriage way, it is important that we also have this completed about the same time.

"So that we don't have a clogging of traffic and it appears everything is going on as planned so I am quite happy with the pace of work," he said.

Atiku, Okowa ticket best combination for PDP

By Engr Emmanuel Chuks Mormah

It's worthy of congratulations to PDP family, PDP NWC and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on his emergence as the party flag bearer and this is very significant because it is the right time for the North East to produce a president.

However, the inability of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar not to name his running mate since the election is making the atmosphere tense. This has given room for a number of persons lobbying to be his running mate.

Among the number of people lobbying to be the Atiku's running mate only Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta stands out politically to be the best, to assure winning for the 2023 election.

If the PDP is working for a landslide victory in the two zones of South-South and South-East, only Governor Okowa can help the party secure this success.

Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa is a grassroot politician and a national political figure. He has an unmatchable political records in local and national politics.

Okowa held the position of South-South Governors Forum as Chairman, Planning Committee Chairman of PDP national convention, and it is on record that he gave the party, the most peaceful and fair election in history.

As Senate Committee Chairman on Health contributed immensely to the National Health Act which has revolutionised health care delivery in the country. As Governor of Delta he had pioneered the establishment of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission which has so far recorded over a million subscribers.

Governor Okowa has held positions both at Federal, State and Local level of political offices and it is on record that he is the only governor in South-South sub-region that is at peace with almost all the governors from the Southern Nigeria's region.

Governor Okowa led PDP to victory in Edo state, contributed to the party's fortunes in Bayelsa State and also hosted the southern Governors for regional unity and progress.

There is, therefore, no way one would claim Okowa is not national figure to be the running mate to the Wazirin Adamawa.

Come to think of Gov Okowa-led administration in Delta State. He has recorded enviable legacies in all facets of the state economy, human capital development, infrastructures etc. He made all 'dead trap', abandoned and dilapidated roads motorable and express way. This is why he's nicknamed "Road Master'.

Away from state level administrative successes, Okowa is a political professional and a dependable coadjutor. He is a detribalized man; one among other virtues that can sell him across the geo-political zones.

The untrue statements labeled on Okowa as not being a national political figure and a betrayer can be seen as political blackmails, as it is common in politics. Taradiddle, indefensible fib that should be trashed!

How nationalistic is the one who is saying Okowa is not national? And how nationalistic are those who are said to be national?

Okowa plays peaceful and wisdom-man politics and have been successful in all levels of politics. This is why people envy his tenacity.

PDP should be wise enough to take someone who means well for the party and the people. Who can assure 2023 winning. Who can return Federal power to the party and deliver the people's mandate. One who can align to make Nigeria great again!

Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa is the man best fit for the running mate to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa!

Omo-Agege unfit to govern Delta - Aniagwu

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu on Monday said the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege lacks requisite knowledge to govern the state.

Aniagwu said with the poor performances of the All Progressives Congress led Federal Government at the centre, it will be very difficult to market any candidate from that party in the 2023 general elections.

He stated this at a news conference in Asaba adding that he had once advised Omo-Agege to concentrate his energy on things that could enhance his electoral value rather than chasing shadows.

According to him, "not too long ago I had advise the Deputy President of the Senate, and the APC governorship candidate in the state, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege to try as much as possible to stay with the issues that could help his electioneering campaign and not to begin to stray in directions that will not in any way advance the course of his interest.

"I had thought that it was only those who speak for him that tend not understand what the issues are.

"I read somewhere, where he was mentioning that we have received over N700 billion in the last seven years and that we couldn't account for that and I begin to wonder N700 billion as what?

"It shows that he does not understand how governance runs because the data that is available shows that we have received more than that.

"I say so because he thinks that what we use to run government alone in a year is N100 billion, our wage bill alone, that is the recurrent side of the budget is even far more than what he was mentioning," he said.

He reminded the Orogun-born Senator that Governor Okowa was not contesting elections with him in 2023 and as such he should not make Okowa the subject matter of his campaign.

"First he needs to be reminded that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is not on the ballot with him in 2023. Governor Okowa is not running for any of the elections in Delta, he is not running to become a governor again, he is not running for any election that is limited to Delta, so its important that he begins to address his mind to other issues rather than chasing shadows.

"As a government we have been able to show transparently through the press in the last seven years, the many projects and programmes that we have embarked upon.

"Programmes such as the many platforms that we have used to empower our youths and a cross section of Deltans.

"Policies such as the ones that affects the livelihoods of our people and indeed projects that are quite outstanding such as the New State Secretariat, upgrade and concessioning of the Asaba airport that has made our airport quite outstanding among the comity of airports in the country.

"We have performed significantly in the capital side of the budget with many outstanding accomplishments in infrastructural development.

"As a government we have added value to the people of Delta whether they live in the creeks or in the upland so for Omo-Agege to say that N700 billion is not accounted for, you begin to wonder whether he understands the issues of governance.

"I thought that as a member of the National Assembly he should be able to do some calculations because there has never been any year where we drew up a budget that is less than N360 billion.

"If in all our budgets we have performed 100 percent in the recurrent part of the budget which is why we are always ensuring that salaries are paid as and when due and that we have also performed significantly on the capital side of the budget.

"All these projects have led to the many milestones we have recorded in road construction, building of schools, bridges and other infrastructure such as the storm water drainage here in Asaba and Warri.

"Many of these projects you have either accompanied us to inspect or to inaugurate many of these projects so you begin to wonder if such a person is capable of governing if he does not have a clear understanding of what statistics is all about?

"As we go into the electioneering campaign be rest assured that we will put up what our party the PDP has done in Delta. state for our people to be the judge," the Information Commissioner stated.

On Okowa’s rising political profile and comments by some uninformed analysts, Aniagwu said the governor didn't buy it from the market, adding that he Okowa will add value to national governance with his scorecard in Delta.

"The good Lord and the people of Nigeria have seen that our Governor has discharged his responsibility very creditable well here in Delta and there are a lot facts that speaks to that in terms of projects, programmes and policies.

"We therefore urge you to shun the possibility of individuals who lack knowledge of activities in Delta and tend to paint pictures that are at variance with realities in the state.

"We thank you because you have remained with the truth and you have remained very professional in the discharge of your reportage and we are not going to lose any sleep because we know that you will continue to stay with the facts," he said.

The Information Commissioner further said that the primary election of the PDP has come and gone and the delegates spoke loudly and those who witnessed it can see the transparency that characterised the process.

He urged those who contested with the party's candidate Sheriff Oborevwori to join hands with him to continue the party’s winning streak in the state.

"As a Government we have always put the interest of the people first and that we will not lose sight of.

"The abysmal performance of the ruling party in Abuja is enough challenge for anybody who want to come and challenge the very laudable programmes and projects of Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa.

"We want them to go and correct their challenge first before looking in our direction because that's enough trouble for them rather than spending their energy questioning thins that are not even questionable in the first place.

On the alleged frosty relations between Governor Okowa and former Governor James Ibori, Aniagwu said there was no issues with the two leaders who have continued to remain close as great leaders.

"We are on course and I don't think there is any problem between Governor Okowa and our leader, Chief James Ibori.

"Okowa has continued to show him respect and I have not seen Chief Ibori speak ill of Governor Okowa and of course knowing who Okowa is, he will never speak ill of anyone especially his leader," he stated.

On the issue of a northern candidacy, Aniagwu said the country needs a dispassionate leader that will treat people equally and fairly and not on the basis of any ethnic, religious or regional considerations.

He said the PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar had served the country well as Vice President and assisted President Olusegun Obasanjo to rejuvenate the nation's economy between 1999 to 2007 and urged Nigerians to support him and the PDP to rescue Nigeria from the grips of the APC.

Okowa has all it takes to be president - Spokesman

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, has said that the governor has all it takes to be president of Nigeria.

Ifeajika stated this while reacting to remarks on Okowa by analysts in an AriseTv programme on Monday, on the strengths and weaknesses of some members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) being tipped as Vice Presidential candidate to the party’s presidential candidate who emerged on Saturday night, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Addressing journalists at Government House Asaba, the governor’s spokesman said the comments against his boss were derogatory, and smacked of crass ignorance of politics by those who made the analysis.

He said that Okowa possessed the requisite experience to be president but refused to yield to pressure to contest due to personal reasons.

"In the last two days, the media have been awash with reports about the PDP primaries and the outcome and the things that will follow.

"I don't know when onlookers have become serious politicians that are deciding for politicians. What we know, for those who understand politics, is that after the presidential primaries, the party leaders and the candidate will sit down to decide who the running mate will be.
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"It is not done in one day or immediately after the convention; what is important is that the party selects somebody who can assist the candidate to win election and that is done before the campaigns will start.

"There is no hurry about it; they usually take time to do it and it is the prerogative of parties to do that but I am aware that one analyst or commentator, precisely on Frank Tietie, in an attempt to assess some persons that were listed as likely Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP displayed so much malice against Okowa.

"When he got to Okowa for his assessment, he said that the gôvernor could not be the Vice Presidential candidate because he had not developed Delta and that he lacked national exposure, among others.

"To become a Vice-Presidential candidate, you don't have to have a national exposure for you to emerge. It is the prerogative of the party to pick who it thinks will win the election.

"You don't have to be one star anywhere; the party takes time to see who will join the presidential candidate to win election and that's what I am sure the party will do," he said.

Ifeajika said that Jonathan and Osinbajo were relatively unknown until they were nominated to be Vice-Presidential candidates.

"There are instances that buttress this point; when form President Obasanjo nominated Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as Vice President in 1999, he was governor-elect of Adamawa. The only thing known about him was that he was a retired Customs Officer and a businessman.

"During Yar'Adua's tenure, Dr Goodluck Jonathan was not known anywhere aside being Deputy Governor of Bayelsa and later Governor, following the impeachment of his boss. He wasn't a national star anywhere but he won election with Yar'Adua.

"Again in 2015, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo was chosen as vice-presidential candidate to President Muhammadu Buhari. Before then, Osinbajo was known just as a Professor of Law and former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State.

"Osinbajo was not a star in the political hemisphere at that time. So for somebody to say that Okowa is not known nationally in politics is to say the least, derogatory and it shows how uninformed whoever said so is in politics.

"Okowa, for the records, was a Commissioner in Delta for eight years, Secretary to the State Government, Senator and later as Governor.

"These are enough credentials to make him known nationally. Even as a first time member in the Senate, he was Chairman Senate Committee on Health while there were ranking senators. That was evident that he was already known before coming to the Senate.

"What we have today as the National Health Act in Nigeria is a product of Governor Okowa’s effort in the health sector. He sponsored the National Health Bill, which was passed and signed into law in 2014," he said.

He added that as governor, Okowa domesticated the Contributory Health Insurance Scheme in Delta, with over one million Deltans already enrolled in the scheme which gives free treatment to pregnant women, children under-five years and the aged while other enrollees pay only N7,000 per annum for the services.

Ifeajika further said that Okowa had handled tough assignments for the party which also added to his pedigree as a nationalist.

According to him, when Jonathan lost his re-election bid in 2015, the PDP was in turmoil and when the dust settled, the entire party sat down and chose Okowa to organise the National Convention that brought in Uche Secondus-led National Working Committee.

"He was called in again to organise another Convention to elect the presidential candidate of the party in the 2019 general elections held in Port Harcourt.

"For everything, by way of credentials, somebody should have in this country, Okowa has it. He is a giant in politics, a goal-getter in everything he choses to do and a material any day in the politics of this country.

"The said comment is not just unfortunate but malicious and hence we are responding to it." he stated.

On the 7th anniversary of the Okowa administration, Ifeajika said that the coastal areas of the state will forever remember the administration for braving the odds to construct roads in the area, including the 20.8km road leading to Obotebe 1, Obotebe 2, Yokri and Sokebulou roads.

"In a couple of weeks, we will proceed to inaugurate the floating market in Ogheye, a riverside community. It is called Ogheye Floating Market, built right on water, hence floating market.

"We have several empowerment programmes with over 150,000 youths taken off the streets and they are the fulcrum of MSMEs in the state."

On infrastructure in the state, Ifeajika said the governor had embarked on lots of infrastructural projects, including the 10 new ongoing technical colleges with three already completed in Asaba, Obiaruku and Effurun.

"The governor also established three new universities, with the upgrade of three higher institutions in the state to enable more Deltans have access to university education.

"It is on record that Lagos State Government, having seen the wisdom in what Delta did, has also established two more universities in the state," he stated.

Children’s Day: I’ll make case for child’s protection, Ukodhiko promises

By Ajirioghene Oreh

As the world celebrates this year’s children’s day, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko has promised to prioritize the needs of children and make laws that would ensure a better, safer and brighter future for them when elected into the House of Representatives.

Ukodhiko made the promise in his message of felicitation to the children on Friday, May 27, 2022 at his Otor-Igho country home in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

He stated that, “this year’s theme of the children’s day celebration, “Strengthening Supporting Systems for the Protection of the Nigerian Child: A Wake Up Call” is very timely and it calls for urgent actions that will see to the prioritisation of the needs of children”,

He advocated for a law to be enacted that would ensure children who ought to be in school are removed from the streets and roads of the nation from hawking and other sundry abuses.

The House of Representatives candidate expressed the commitment of his aspiration to champion the cause of children by ensuring the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the rights of the child (UNCRC) which was adopted in 1989.

While acknowledging the importance of children's rights, Ukodhiko assured that, “i will not only expand opportunities for children of Isoko Federal Constituency but I’ll ensure equal opportunities for all children,“ he added.