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Beyond Sentiment: Aniocha Should Embrace Change In 2027

By: Osita Biose
The principle of power rotation is a healthy convention that fosters fairness, equity, and inclusive growth. 
Delta State’s power rotation model, wherein the governorship alternates among the three senatorial districts, Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South stands as a stellar example. This arrangement has promoted equity, stability, and balanced development, ensuring that each district has the opportunity to produce a governor.
 
Within the Aniocha/Oshimili constituency, until the recent emergence of Hon Lawrence Ngozi Okolie from Oshimili South, Aniocha North and South  have more often  held the House of Representatives seat since 1999.In the saddle were Hon Paschal Adigwe (South)Hon Joan Onyemechi{South)Hon Ned Nwoko(North),with Hon. Ndudi Elumelu being a prominent representative. While the various  leaderships and contributions are undeniably commendable, the prolonged representation by Aniocha North and South  local  governments raises pertinent questions about fairness and equity within the constituency.
 
Adopting power rotation in the Aniocha/Oshimili constituency presents a range of significant benefits. One of the foremost advantages is the promotion of equity and fairness. By embracing this practice, leadership opportunities are distributed more evenly across all local governments, ensuring that no single area dominates representation.
 
Moreover, power rotation fosters inclusive growth by encouraging participation from diverse areas within the constituency. This approach broadens representation, allowing for a variety of perspectives and ideas to shape governance.
 
Likewise, it serves as a safeguard against marginalisation. By guaranteeing that every local government has a voice in leadership decisions, power rotation ensures that all groups within the constituency feel valued and included in the political process.
 
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Aniocha/Oshimili constituency is presented with a unique opportunity to embrace change and uphold the principles of power rotation. This change would ensure that all local governments within the constituency are granted an equal platform to contribute to leadership. In doing so, new ideas, perspectives, and energies can be infused into governance, benefiting the entire constituency.
 
Stakeholders must reflect on the importance of power rotation as the elections approach. By adopting this convention, Aniocha/Oshimili constituency can advance inclusive growth, diversity, and representation. This will not only ensure fairness but also lead to a more equitable and developed community.
At the end of Hon Ngozi Okolie’s first tenure, most constituents are confident that the score card will justify the means when compared with  the achievements of his predecessors
.
 
It is time for Aniocha to rise above sentiment, prioritise collective progress, and embrace the transformational benefits of equitable representation. The greater good of the constituency must take precedence in 2027.

ASAGBA OF ASABA PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE J. T. USEN

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, has expressed sadness over the passing of a one-time Military Governor of the old Bendel State, Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni (rtd).

In a tribute in his Palace on Friday, the Asagba, joined by some of the Palace Chiefs, condoled the Useni family, the Plateau State Government, the Governments and people of Delta and Edo States, as well as the Asaba community, describing J.T Useni’s death as a huge loss to the nation.

His Majesty.said, “We want to express our heartfelt condolences to the family of Lt. Gen Senator Jeremiah Useni who passed on recently

“As a Chief in the Palace of His Royal Majesty in Asaba, we are saddened by the news of his passing and we want to convey our heartfelt condolences, not just to his family and people of Plateau State, but also the government of Edo/Delta where he reigned as Governor of the old Bendel State.

“He was a Senator and also a Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“We mourn with the nation at this point in time, and more significantly, the Palace in Asaba is certainly saddened by his demise as we remember, with great passion and interest, his contributions, not just to the growth and development of the old Bendel State, but also of Asaba in particular because a lot of legacies that littered our past, the roads that he constructed in Delta and Asaba, we will remember always

“We want to express our condolences to show the whole world that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the family at this point in time and that the Palace will continue to remember him as a Chief that served us meritoriously.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace”.

The retired Army General and politician, who held sway during the Abacha region, reportedly died on Thursday at the age of 82 after a protracted illness.

GLORIA OKOLUGBO AND HER CHILDISH POLITICAL RANTS AGAINST SENATOR NWAOBOSHI 

By: Ike Philip Abiagom & Obiageli Edward Obanya
Hon. Gloria OKOLUGBO, the self styled Director of Communications for the Office of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, has recently been raving and ranting in the media space, with all manner of uncouth and uncensored vituperations, casting unprovoked and baseless aspersions on the ebullient personality and political sagacity of the Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, an astute political leader in Anioma , a Constitutionalist, founding state secretary of PDP, two term State Party Chairman, two term Senator of Federal Republic of Nigeria, two term Chairman  Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, an elder statement, the encyclopedia of Delta State Politics, informed Party Technocrat of APC, Anioma Political Warrior, a Go-Getter and a result Oriented Senator and the Odogwu of Anioma nation.
 
Her latest loquacious verbiage is couched in an article titled: “Nwaoboshi’s Divisive Tactics Undermining APC’s Progress in Delta North”, in which she exposed her childish, amateurish political shallowness, by dabbling into the internal affairs of the All Progressives Congress, APC; a matter over which she neither has the competence nor authority to speak on.
 
Unfortunately, her comments not only raises disturbing posers about the real intent and purpose of the looming defection of her principal, Senator Ned Nwoko to the APC, which she herself teased in an interview with a well national television network, but most importantly, offers the Delta APC a very clear, unambiguous mistakenly mistimed sneak preview of the divisive, disruptive, confrontational and quarrelsome baggage which Ned Nwoko is bringing with him into Delta APC.
 
Of course, those who are already conversant with Senator Nwoko’s eclectic spontaneity and have followed his political trajectory will easily confirm that these were the same unwholesome traits he has exhibited over the years and he is fully prepared to offload same on the APC, no thanks to Miss Okolugbo’s early exposé and confession of what is to come.
 
It is quite obvious that the provocative needle that has tickled the fickle minded Miss Okolugbo into this childish rant against Distinguished Senator Nwaoboshi, has to do with the simply and clear advise which he wisely offered to the APC intendee on the processes and demands which are required by a would be defector, to be fully accepted and integrated into the party mainstream and of course, the subsequent note of cautionary revelation that the want away PDP Senator was already in cahoots with certain elements to destabilize Delta APC.
 
For those who may have missed it, Senator Nwaoboshi, reflecting on Ned Nwoko’s manipulative shenanigans to join APC had described it thus: “His actions are unjust and arrogant, particularly as he is not yet a member of the party. Such behavior disregards the democratic principles the APC upholds and disrespects the rights of the duly elected Delta State APC executive.
 
He then proceeded to advise Ned Nwoko with the very brief and unambiguous words: “If Nwoko is truly interested in joining the APC, he must follow the same process as any other prospective member. This involves building relationships within the party, respecting its leadership structure, and adhering to its constitution and democratic processes. He cannot expect to join the party and immediately dictate its affairs. The APC is a democratic institution governed by established rules and procedures. Nwoko must abide by these rules if he intends to become part of the party.”
 
The fear of Senator Nwaoboshi’s advise is the beginning of the defection wisdom which prompted Miss Okolugbo to launch into a torrid tirade of unsolicited, uncultured abuse and several delusional postulations and allegations like: “under Nwaoboshi’s leadership, the APC in Delta North suffered significant electoral setbacks, which she attributed to a leadership style driven by personal ambition rather than collective progress. “Rather than building the party, Nwaoboshi’s tenure was marked by stagnation and a lack of strategic direction.”
She further cautioned that: “clinging to outdated leadership practices would only alienate party faithful and undermine President Tinubu’s efforts to fortify the APC”
 
The annoying part of this whole Okolugbo is that one wonders who gave her the temerity; a weightless political figure whose  credentials for recognition are only a few stints as a civil commissioner in a former administration and a failed gubernatorial bid with a fringe political party, which she later even abandoned to support another candidate, who gave her the audacity to even assume the boldness to talk about the Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi the way she has done.
 
Sadly, one can only infer that Ned Nwoko has confused her rational faculties with his usual monetary overtures to now imagine in her infantile hallucinations, that she can be so garrulous in describing the political legacy of the Oracle. 
 
Infact Miss Okolugbo’s ranting reminds one of the parable in the legendary novel, “Things Fall Apart” by the late famous author Chinua Achebe of  “Nza, the wiry bird, who after a heavy meal, forgot himself and challenged his chi (personal god) to a wrestling match. The latter laughed in a guttural voice while Nza danced around in the arena, with his shiny belly in tow and in one swift movement, Nza was seized by the tail and smashed on the stony earth by his chi. The fight ended before it began and the animals, who looked forward to an entertaining evening, blamed Nza for being unwise and daring too far!”
 
As at the time of writing this piece, Ned Nwoko is still a full, card carrying member who is representing Delta North Senatorial zone under the Umbrella of the PDP, so one wonders why Miss Okolugbo, perhaps carried away like Nza, on the heavy meal of monetary gratification she receives, would bad mouth and rubbish the APC as a crude, backward, uncivilized party which can only be saved by “Ned Nwoko’s visionary leadership, influence and vision which can rejuvenate the party and reverse its declining fortunes in Delta North,” all these even before he has officially joined the APC fold? What an insult to “The alter egos of APC’s in Delta North led by Most Distinguish Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, Rt Hon Victor Ochei, Ogbueshi Adizue Eluaka, Lady Madam Olejeme, Engr Hon Doris Uboh, [ Prof Leroy Edozien, Chief Enuha], APC reps candidate for Ndokwa Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the last election, Sir Opone, Evangelist Moses Kamaya, and all the others too numerous to mention would not allow for some elements to cast slur on the Delta North APC either in the local government or beyond.
 
Well, Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi has made his point clearly in the following words: “As a a two term Senator  who represented Delta North Senatorial District (2015–2023) and a committed leader in the APC, I strongly condemn Nwoko’s attempt to destabilize the Delta State APC”. 
As the saying goes, a word is enough for the wise. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear.

Ned Nwoko’s Alleged Plot to Destabilize Delta State APC will fail- Sen. Nwaoboshi

The  former Senate Committee Chairman on Niger Delta Affairs  and a leader in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Most Distinguished  Senator Peter Nwaoboshi has strongly condemned Senator Ned Nwoko’s alleged attempts to destabilize the Delta State APC.

In a press statement released on January 20, 2025, Senator Nwaoboshi accused  Ned Nwoko, who recently announced his planned defection, of secretly plotting with elements in the Presidency to dissolve the Delta State APC Executives before their tenure expires.

He described Nwoko’s actions as unjust, arrogant, and a significant threat to the party’s stability and unity in Delta State.

The statement reads.

NED NWOKO’S ATTEMPTS TO DESTABILIZE THE DELTA STATE APC

I have been made aware that Senator Ned Nwoko, who recently announced his planned defection, is secretly plotting with some elements in the Presidency to dissolve the Delta State APC Executives from state to wards before their tenure expires. This move is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to our party’s stability and unity in Delta State.

As a former senator who represented Delta North Senatorial District from 2015 to 2023, and a leader in the All Progressives Congress (APC), I strongly condemn Nwoko’s attempt to destabilize the Delta State APC. His actions are unjust and arrogant, particularly since he is not yet a member of the party. It disregards the democratic principles our party upholds and disrespects the rights of the duly elected members of the Delta State APC Executive.

The Delta State APC Executive was duly elected and has a mandate to complete their tenure. Any attempts to dissolve the executive would violate the party’s constitution and create chaos within the party. It has the potential to prevent Delta APC from fielding candidates in the 2027 general elections.

If Nwoko is genuinely interested in joining the APC, he must follow the same process as any other member. This entails building relationships with party members, respecting the party’s leadership structure and internal affairs, and adhering to the party’s constitution and democratic processes. He cannot expect to join the party and immediately dictate how things should be done. The APC is a democratic institution with established rules and procedures; therefore, Nwoko must be willing to abide by these rules if he wishes to be a part of our party.

Nwoko’s actions are clearly driven by self-interest, rather than a genuine desire to serve the people of Delta State. His history of party-hopping and lack of commitment to any particular party or cause are well-documented, indicating that his interest in joining the APC is motivated by personal gain rather than a commitment to the party’s ideals.

I strongly advise Nwoko to refrain from interfering with the Delta State APC’s internal affairs and to respect the party’s constitution and democratic processes. Any further attempts to destabilize the party will be met with stiff resistance from me and other concerned stakeholders.

Furthermore, I urge the National leadership of the party and the Presidency to ignore Nwoko’s demand for the dissolution of the Delta State Executive Committee of the party, as it is unconstitutional and motivated by personal gain. The National leadership should uphold the party’s constitution and democratic processes, rather than succumbing to the whims of individuals seeking to destabilize the party.

We will continue to defend our party’s integrity and democracy, and we will not be intimidated by Nwoko’s antics.

SIGNED:

Most Distinguished Senator Peter O. Nwaoboshi

Nigerian-American Ruby Star Dr Freddie-Ajudua Ties the Knot with Fiancée Kierra in America

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Love is in the air! Nigerian-American Ruby Super Star Dr Freddie-Ajudua and his beautiful bride Kierra celebrate their union in a heartwarming traditional-court wedding ceremony.
Dr Freddie -Ajudua has officially tied the knot with his fiancée, Kierra, in a beautiful traditional-Court wedding ceremony that has captured widespread attention.

At the traditional wedding is Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua-1,the head of Ajudua Dynasty, President and Founder of Vebron Carre USA and his beloved wife Obi(Dr)Mrs Vivian Ajudua, the parents of groom , inlaws and  Others who graced the wedding were families, friends, Ruby stars, actors, actresses, and other dignitaries.

Reacting to the wedding, the father of the groom, Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua-1, expressed his happiness for Freddie his son, and expressed excitement about  Kierra finally getting hitched.

In Obi Ajudua-1’s comment section, He celebrated their union and offered advice to singles through captivating photos on his Instagram page.
American Ruby star Dr Freddie -Ajudua encouraged singles to remain patient, stay open to God’s definition of the best partner, and anticipate a double celebration in 2025.
The bride noted her first impression of her groom was his caring character, reserved, and self-assured character, saying physically, there was no missing his Popeye arms and incredible smile. She added that her groom’s gigantic heart was what she loved most about him.

As the couple celebrates their union, social media has been flooded with congratulatory messages and best wishes from friends, fans, and well-wishers. Their traditional wedding has become a topic of admiration, with many praising the cultural significance and love displayed during the event.
The newly weds are expected to hold their church wedding celebration soon to continue marking this joyous milestone in their lives.

Oborevwori is committed to building a Delta State that works for all

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Governor Oborevwori has displayed a high developed craftsmanship in his approach to work and challenges, which is evident in his constructive leadership and growing political profile. That profile showcases a man passionate about serving people in the grassroots, sharing his skills and resources and devotion to good causes. He went into politics from the grassroots level because of the same passion for serving and astute reading of the political compass.

The sum is that the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori is a tried and tested political strategist with the capacity to execute and create impact. He also has the EQ to take blows while remaining focused on the goal.

Observers, even stakeholders, often underrate the sagacity and skills of Oborevwori until they are confounded. Then he convinces them. Rt. Hon Oborevwori, is the reason for this smile across the nile, as we open up the file of his stewardship that is devoid of any vile.

All-over the world, ‘Sheriffs’ are known for their active and effective administrative and adjudicative roles in cities, districts, states and countries, doing well for governance to sell, mouths to tell, excellence to dwell and results to ring the bell.

For the first time in history, Nigeria as a country is fortunate to have one and for recording and reckoning purposes, Delta State happens to be the place with that uncommon grace for the historic race.He has been in active politics for sometime now, leaving behind the footprints of decency, consistency, transparency and efficiency wherever his feet dotted as far as political involvements and commitments are concerned.

From the ‘Ward’ to the ‘Local Government Council’ and to the ‘State Assembly’ and now to the Government House, as the ‘Chief Executive Officer’ of Delta State, the political superstar who is nicknamed ‘Ukodo’ has been creating, developing and delivering  meaningful, uncommon and fruitful political recipes, reforms and results that have brought about enhanced, entrenched and established democratic dividends across Delta State.

Under Oborevwori’s watch, the state government have embarked and is further embarking on diverse developmental and institutionalized initiatives with projects and policies that are crafted and casted with significance and relevance.

As young as it is, the one year and eight months old Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration in Delta State, have displayed exceptional excellence in leadership and displaced exhaustive excuses for not championing and channeling campaign promises to the path of fruitfulness and fulfillment.

The M.O.R.E. Agenda mantra is the master key that have unlocked several potentials and prospects and have even done ‘more’ in the implementation and impartation of good governance in confidence and consistence with the yearnings and cravings of every Deltan across the world.

The M.O.R.E. Agenda, is currently rated the most popular administrative acronym across the country because of its spectacular possession of the characteristics of commitment and complement, in feminity and masculinity (words and deeds).
Currently, Delta residents are witnessing and testifying to the grandiose and gargantuan infrastructural influences and inferences in terms of road constructions and rehabilitations, engineering of endearing bridges and crafting of flamboyant flyovers strategically and systematically within the state.
The icing on the cake happens to be the fact that Governor Oborevwori dedicates, donates and devotes so much attention to state projects and programs, thereby subjecting them to sensitive scrutinizes and sufficient supervisions.

This is the reason why the various and numerous projects of the state under Oborevwori’s watch, are coming out as the finest, fittest and fastest.

As a man of excellence, whose believe in education for transformation and reformation is confirmable and commendable, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has invested so much in that sector with sentiment, sanity and sanctity.

This administration have already established some institutions, as well as renovated, reconstructed and rejuvenated several structures and sections of most schools across the state.

The massive recruitment of teachers, the prioritized and prompt payment of bursary to indigent students as well as the gracious grants of sustainable scholarships and supports to both the privileged and underprivileged students from Delta State are the testimonials and credentials for this powerful administrative scorecard in that regard.

Healthwise, the Oborevwori’s government is wise enough to create wise policies and set up wise projects for advance healthcare delivery for residents of Delta State.

Several health institutions have been established, refurbished and furnished with the necessary elementary and secondary medical equipments and facilities to render the basics and additional services of health care delivery.

Complementarily, the government have so far injected huge amount of money to aid medical treatment bills that are aimed at subsidizing healthcare delivery for the citizens and residents of the state, via Contributory Health Insurance Scheme.

Oborevwori firmly believes that the development of human capital will enhance maximum and premium social and economic development that will flow in to water and nourish the pastural and peripheral strength of the state.

In view of this, his government has so far covered a reasonable distance in the quest to achieving standard and systemized youth-attributed investment policies and programs for attainable and sustainable  investment, vis-a-vis wealth and actualization creation.

Since being in charge of Delta State, Oborevwori, have so far deeply, decently and dependably involved the youth in governance and economic relevance via political appointments, service engagements and social empowerments.

Consequently, the state’s sponsorship and mentorship of the youth in craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship and digital distributorship have motivated and mobilized a strong relationship between the government and the great minded youths of Delta state.

The achievement of this milestone is made possible and feasible via selected successive and successful initiatives that are tactically ticketed and targeted at draining the stagnated and saturated ‘waters’ of poverty, as well as establishing and empowering the youths and women, like the MORE Scheme, Delta State Community Action For Resilience and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) and some MSME initiated programs.

Governor Oborevwori himself orally declared it that his government will never allow Deltans to suffer. His compassion, concession and consideration for the people that gave him their mandate is stronger than any other personal or political interest and this status quo made him vow to never treat the welfare of the citizens of Delta State with levity.

According to him; ” I am committed to building a Delta State that works for all. Through innovative programs and policies, we are promoting socio-economic development, improving healthcare delivery, and empowering youth and women. These initiatives are just the beginning, and I am excited about what we can achieve together. I envision a Delta State where everyone can thrive and have access to sustainable, inclusive development.

By working together and leveraging the strength of our people, I believe we can achieve this vision.

In life, you never know how fast you can run until you are called upon. In the race of life, better is never good enough. As we walk the talk each day and strive for perfection the best will surely come.”

The young administration of Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta State have accelerated faster than her counterparts and contemporaries elsewhere in Nigeria.

The state have equally soared higher than others in the areas of manufacturing, agriculture and tourism developments, which have impacted visibly, vitally, veritably and verifiably on the scorecard of the Governor, even within a very short period of his tenure;

Salaries, pensions and total emoluments are promptly paid and rewardingly regarded by the Oborevwori’s administration and this remains the secret of the visible smiles on the faces of workers and retirees in the state that are becoming more contagiously and contentiously appealing.With the implementation of ‘M.O.R.E. Agenda’, more progress, more purpose, more projection, and more prosperity have been registered and restored in the state.

Deltans, now and more than ever before are witnessing, seeing, perceiving and enjoying the goodies of good governance in the areas of ; Job Creation; High GDP & IGR Generation; Capital Inflow; Export of raw and processed agricultural products; Improved Economy of the State; Improved living condition; Environmental rejuvenation; Improved infrastructural facilities; Social stability and security of lives and properties; Improved educational and healthcare systems. Etc.

As a mark of reference with strong difference, the government of Oborevwori have so far not borrowed any fund, either internally or externally and this is a clear indication and confirmation of  the administration’s commitment for a tomorrow without sorrow for all Deltans.

Moreso, with the state fast becoming a construction hub via the sprouting and spreading of projects and more projects like the grasses of the Savannah, Delta have become the envy of all locations and destinations in Nigeria and beyond.

Just before midway into a 4-year term, Governor Oborevwori has performed beyond expectations, anticipations and projections in the eyes of every stakeholder and story teller within and outside the state.
As it is currently, the scenario is absolutely clear and understandable and there may be no need to enquire further.

*Beyond Media Frenzy: Call For Constructive Criticism Of Hon. Okolie* 

By: Osita Biose 
 
The media has been awash with repetitive allegations of poor performance by member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency of Delta State in the Nigerian National Assembly, Hon. Ngozi Okolie. 
 
This persistent barrage of criticism seems like a broken record, leaving one to wonder why some individuals have suddenly targeted him. The situation bears an uncanny resemblance to the biblical tale of “the hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob,” where deception and manipulation are employed to achieve a hidden agenda.
 
Media trials are unethical, unhealthy, and often used as a means to attract attention. Rather than focusing on constructive criticism, some individuals resort to character assassination, mudslinging, and avoidable acrimonies. This approach not only undermines the integrity of our political system but also creates unnecessary tension among stakeholders.
 
As concerned citizens of Aniocha/Oshimili, we should strive to promote a culture of constructive criticism, acknowledging the achievements of our leaders while addressing areas that require improvement. It’s essential to recognize that every politician undergoes a vetting process before being allowed to contest, ensuring that candidates meet specific requirements and standards.
 
In light of this, “holier-than-thou” criticism should be jettisoned. Rather than indulging in destructive criticism, it would be more honorable for individuals to prepare for the 2027 elections. This approach would demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic participation and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
 
Let us channel our energies into promoting a positive image and culture, engaging in civil discussions, and working towards repositioning our politicians for the greater good. By adopting this approach, we can create a more conducive environment for democratic growth, where leaders are held accountable for their actions, and citizens are empowered to participate in the decision-making process.

The Politics of Defection: Implications for Delta State

By Osita Biose 
 
The recent defection of high-profile politicians from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),and the very strong indication that  Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents the Delta North senatorial district in the Nigerian Senate may soon join,, has sparked intense debate about the future of Delta State’s politics.
There were reports suggesting that Sen. Nwoko may be leaving the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Adding to the controversy, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has characterised his support for Tinubu’s administration as “patriotism” rather than politics. according to the commissioner for works(Rural roads & Public Informatin)Mr Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu,at  a press briefing recently in Asaba,the Delta state capital.This declaration has only served to intensify discussions and fuel speculation regarding a potential defection.
The Law and Defection
In Nigeria, the law allows politicians to defect from one party to another. However, the Constitution and the Electoral Act stipulate certain conditions that must be met before a defection can be considered valid. Section 68(1) of the Constitution states that a member of the National Assembly or a state House of Assembly shall vacate his seat if he defects from the party that sponsored his election to another party.
 
Despite this provision, many politicians have defected without vacating their seats, often citing “division” or “merger” within their original party as justification.
Implications for Delta State
The potential defection of Ned Nwoko and other high-profile politicians may have significant implications for Delta State’s politics. As a key player in the state’s PDP, Nwoko’s departure could potentially alter the balance of power within the party. 
 
Furthermore, the APC’s efforts to woo defectors from the PDP may be part of a broader strategy to gain control of the state. With the 2027 elections looming, the stakes are high, and the APC may see defections as a means to bolster its chances.
 Nwaobishi’s Position 
In this context, the position of APC chieftain Sen. Peter Nwaobishi as a former PDP Stalwart   within Delta State  is crucial. Although his exact stance on the recent defections remains unclear, it is anticipated that he will play a significant role in shaping the party’s response to these developments.
 
 APC’s Chances in Delta State 
Turning to the APC’s chances, the prospect of taking over Delta State remains uncertain. While the party has made significant gains in recent years, the PDP continues to be a dominant force in the state. Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, the  Director General,Bureau for Orientation, had earler  dismissed Ibori’s daughter’s defection as “grossly inconsequential,” stating that the PDP will “never miss” her.
Nevertheless, the APC is likely to persist and spring a surprise in its efforts to woo more defectors that the  PDP  may  not easily dismiss, and build momentum ahead of the 2027 elections. As the political landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the battle for Delta State’s political soul has only just begun.

Delta North 2027: Why Senate will not return to Aniocha-Oshimili,says Okoh

By: Benson Nwoko

Nigerian elections are some of the most turbulent in Africa. Deep ethnoreligious differences between the country’s diverse nationalities often rear their heads during elections, sometimes leading to overt violence resulting in loss of lives and property. The precipitates of such violence include flawed electoral processes and longstanding feelings of relative deprivation and exclusion. These contestations, according to Labinjo (2007) and Adebayo (2016) have always been due to the propensity of certain ethnic and geographical parts of the country wanting to hold on to political power in ways that undermine the political aspirations of other groups. These feelings have historical antecedents.

Thus, expectedly, shortly after Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, there were calls for a renegotiation of the country’s political landscape, vis-à-vis the contestation of power. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) adopted a rule on a rotational presidency to mitigate the feelings of marginalization to foster national unity. The arrangement saw the emergence of Olusegun Obasanjo, a Christian from Nigeria’s South West, and Atiku Abubakar, a Muslim from the North East as the President and Vice-President, respectively. The ‘agreement’ meant that the next President after Olusegun Obasanjo would be a Northerner and probably a Muslim, who would be expected to choose a Southerner as deputy. Interestingly, although there were no provisions under the Nigerian constitution for the rotational presidency, the arrangement also considers, in some instances at the state level, candidates’ religious beliefs before pairing them to run for office (at the state and federal levels).

It was based on the above supposition, that a strong Chieftain of APC and Ndokwa Liberation Front, President, High Chief Dennis Okoh,aka Denco has call for a the rotation of senate seat in Anioma nation to mitigate the feelings of marginalized Ndokwa people to foster national unity, he insisted that the next senator from Anioma in 2027 must come from Ndokwa nation.

Okoh made this statement on Sunday during an interview with newsmen in Kwale, while responding to calls for Aniocha-Oshimili to produce the next senator in the upcoming electoral cycle. He said, “Those who have controlled the affairs of this Anioma nation, in terms of politics, have historically been more interested in the national interest than sectional interest.

He went on to state unequivocally, “For 2027, I, as a politician, authoritatively say—without any fear of contradiction or equivocation—that senate will not return to the Aniocha-Oshimili in 2027. This is not how we do it.”

Okoh said desperate people are the ones saying that the Aniocha-Oshimili has to continue in 2027. It is on record that since 1960,Anioma Nation has produced eight senators and from the statistic, since 1960 only nine (9)senators have represented the Anioma nation and out of the eight representatives Aniocha/Oshimili has produced five (6)Senators, Ika axis produced two(2) while Ndokwa produced only one(1) Senator in the person of Chief Patrick Osakwe. Below are the names of the eight senators and years of representation:

1) Chief D.C. Osadebey 1960 – 1963  Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency and became the Premier of Midwest. Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency
2) Mrs Kerry. 1964. Nominated . Ika Constituency
3) Nosike Ikpo 1979 -1983. Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency
4)Francis Nwajei elected during Babangida. Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency

5Dr Azinge  1992-1993  Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency
6) Chief Patrick Osakwe 1999-2011 Ndokwa Constituency
7) Arthur Okowa 2011-2015. Ika Constituency
8) Nwaoboshi Peter 2015-2023. Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency
9) Ned Nwoko 2023 till date Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency

Okoh explained that in Nigeria’s 64 years as an independent nation,the Aniocha / Oshimili Constituency has been in total dominance and control of the senate power for five times out of the total of eight senators that represented Anioma nation since 1960. He said that the Aniocha / Oshimili Constituency has had a better share of the senate more than any other blocs in Anioma Nation.

Aniocha / Oshimili Constituency must not allow itself to be goaded into actions that could have serious ramifications for its political stability. The Ndokwa axis is the most pro-Nigeria region of the Anioma and the most cheated since 1960,If Aniocha / Oshimili Constituency makes that mistake of holding on to senate power ,they would have inadvertently created a perfect storm that could lead to the disintegration of Anioma unity and zonation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Delta North 2027: Ndokwa Liberation Front seeks Nwaoboshi’s forgiveness over betrayal by faceless group

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The  Ndokwa Liberation Front,led by it’s President, High Chief Dennis Okoh aka Denco, on Saturday accused the anarchist group called Ndokwa Youth Forum of betrayal and Sabotaging the entire Ndokwa nations by trying to blackmail and humiliate the Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi for speaking the truth on constitutional matter on the zonation of 2027 senate to Ndokwa, vowing that their acts of betrayal would not be ignored.

Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi spoke as an astute political leader in Anioma , a Constitutionalist, founding state secretary of PDP, two term State Party Chairman,an elder statemen,the encyclopedia of Delta State Politics, informed Party Technocrat of APC, Anioma Political Warrior, a Go-Getter and a result Oriented Senator.

Speaking during an emergence meeting with Ndokwa stakeholders in Kwale yesterday, the visibly angry Ndokwa Liberation Front President, maintained that he could “cut off” even his fingers if they decided to hinder him from “going far” on Ndokwa nation political right. A source privy to the meeting told newsmen that an angry Okoh alleged that the so-called Ndokwa Youth Forum is not a recognized body in Ndokwa nation and has no statutory authority to speak for the Ndokwa youths talk less of speaking on behalf of the leaders of the entire Ndokwa nation concerning this issue of power shift in Anioma.
The Ndokwa nation is been betrayed by this anonymous group of anarchist who we still doubt if they are true sons and daughters of Ndokwa nation because Ndokwa sons or daughters cannot sell his or her Political right because of personal gains (stomach Infrastructure).

“Ndokwa people were fighting unknown enemies while enemies within are pulling Ndokwa down,they were busy conniving and conspiring with the Non Ndokwa axis to take what belong to us. They call themselves sons of Ndokwa, but were misleading the people,” and rained more curses on them.
He told them that Ndokwa people are smarter than this UNSERIOUS group, accusing them of collecting peddling lies against Senator Peter Nwaoboshi our father of equity, who fought for equity in the state during Chief James Ibori administration, he did same to Governor Uduanghan and Governor Okowa. “Shame on this BETRAYAL GROUP,” he said.

Ndokwa Liberation Front (NLF) has vowed that Ndokwa will produce the next Senator to represent Delta North Senatorial District come 2027 . This was declared in an event sponsored by the elders of Ndokwa Nation, which saw Ndokwa people carrying placards with different inscriptions such as: ‘Is time for Ndokwa to produce the next senator’, ‘On Ndokwa nation we stand, Enough is enough’,Aniocha-Oshimii is out of next senate race of 2027 ‘We want justice’, ‘Fairness, and equity’ among others.

According to the RT. Hon. Kennedy Igba, the senatorial seat in Delta North has historically rotated among the Ndokwa, Ika, and Aniocha-Oshimili blocs, each serving for 12 years.
“With Aniocha-Oshimili completing its term 2027, equity demands that Ndokwa Nation takes its turn. Tracing the history of power rotation in Delta North, He recalled that the late Senator Patrick Osakwe of Ndokwa Nation served three terms from 1999 to 2015(12 years) before stepping aside to allow Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa of the Ika bloc to emerge.

Okowa served in the Senate for four years before becoming governor for eight years, further solidifying the rotational arrangement. “The principle of equity guided our decisions in the past, ensuring that every bloc had its turn. This arrangement has brought stability to Delta North politics, and it must be upheld,” Igba said.

He reiterated his commitment to respecting the zoning agreement, adding that it would be morally wrong for any bloc to seek to retain the position after completing its turn, it is our turn now and that Senator Ned Nwoko cannot contest again after 2027 because we have credible sons and daughters from Ndokwa who will take over from him.

Igba described the Aniocha-Oshimili blocs as good people, saying: “The Aniocha-Oshimili blocs are not tribalistic or racist. They are good people but some are being misled by poor representation. For those of our youths who claims to be sons of Ndokwa Nation but are conniving and conspiring with our present Senator Ned Nwoko to seek for second term in office at the detriment of our Ndokwa nation have shown themselves to the world that they are not true sons of Ndokwa nation, but are Meddlesome Interlopers misled with personal gain to betray our people.

The good about this party zonation, is that non of this unscrupulous youths will not be there when the party caucus will sit to interpret the party constitution stipulating rotation and zonation. They are jesters and at best infantile comic , laughable sycophants who cannot undermine constitutional issues within APC or PDP. There are anti-constitutionalist and anarchist.

Ndokwa people have every reason to be proud of Senator Nwaoboshi because all the nooks and crannies of Ndokwa nation are witness to the Nwaoboshi factor in the distribution of social infrastructure that once eluded the region as stakeholders in the NDDC when he was representing Anioma. He fought and included Ndokwa Nation into Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) master plan and also included Ndokwa Youths into Nigeria Presidential Amnesty Programs which a lot of young people in Ndokwa Nation even in the whole of Delta North Senatorial District have benefited both in Education, Health, Agriculture sectors and Oil Companies Treaties till tomorrow.

Nwaoboshi has performed beyond doubt and above all past and present Senators who have represented Delta North in the Senate but some of our past and present senators have not shown a greater sense of emotional intelligence, empathy and responsiveness to the needs of Ndokwa people like Senator Nwaoboshi, but critics in their attempt to lower the influence of the Nwaobosh’s Factor have deposed insensitively that these achievements came only because of his privileged position as the chairman of the Senate committee for Niger Delta Affairs.
we now know better that Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi is the best Senator ever to represent Delta North at the upper chambers.