By : Ike Philip Abiagom
IBUSA (IGBUZO) – Renowned community leader, cleric, and philanthropist, Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze, has distanced himself from reports circulating across Oshimili North Local Government Area and parts of Delta State alleging that he has endorsed a political candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strongly worded statement, Pastor Okeze described the purported endorsement as false, unauthorized, and deliberately misleading, stressing that he remains non-partisan and has not endorsed any candidate or political party.
The clarification followed the circulation of publications suggesting that Pastor Okeze had thrown his support behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Hon. Ashinze Charles Obiodogwu.
According to Pastor Okeze, the NDC candidate merely paid him a Courtesy visit, just as candidates and representatives of other political parties have done in the course of engaging key stakeholders in Oshimili North.
He explained that Hon. Obiodogwu’s visit came shortly after the NDC candidate paid a courtesy call on the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty, before proceeding to meet with him.
“The visit was purely consultative and should not be misconstrued as a political endorsement,” Pastor Okeze stated.
He emphasized that he has not endorsed anybody , nor candidates of any political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Action Congress (AAC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Accord Party, or any other political platform.
The purported endorsement does not represent my views or position in any way. I urge the public to disregard and denounce such misleading publications, he said.
Pastor Okeze further reiterated his commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service, insisting that his interactions with political actors should never be interpreted as support for any individual or party.
The clarification is expected to put to rest speculation surrounding Pastor Okeze’s political stance as consultations and political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections in Delta State.