In a swift response to recent remarks by Comrade Austin Ozobo, President of the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI), Hon. Francis Obule, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, has defended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He asserted that the Governor’s visit to the Ayakoromor Bridge site was a clear demonstration of his authentic and unwavering commitment to infrastructural development in Delta State’s riverine communities.
Hon. Obule expressed his confidence in Governor Oborevwori, stating: “The Governor I know is a man of his word. When he promises something, you can count on him to deliver.
Based on this track record, I can confidently say that his visit to Ayakoromor was motivated by genuine intentions that should not be misinterpreted.”
Comrade Ozobo had insinuated that the Governor’s visit lacked sincerity, suggesting political motives and claiming that grassroots members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were unwilling to follow the Governor into the All Progressives Congress (APC), implying a loss of trust among the public.
In response, Hon. Obule dismissed these claims as “baseless, ill-informed, and politically naive.”
He highlighted that Governor Oborevwori’s administration has demonstrated unprecedented inclusivity and attention to the needs of all Deltans, particularly those in riverine areas, through developmental projects that extend far beyond political rhetoric.
“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s visit to the Ayakoromor Bridge site is part of his ongoing commitment to fast-tracking the bridge’s construction. His M.O.R.E. Agenda is active and thriving, and this bridge is a central component of his administration’s focus. The Governor’s actions, policies, and leadership style reflect sincerity and a genuine commitment to progress,” Obule stated.
Obule further pointed out that Governor Oborevwori’s shift to the APC has been met with overwhelming support, triggering a wave of political realignment in the state.
“Today, nearly every key political figure from the PDP in Delta State, including members of the State House of Assembly, all Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, Councillors, Ward Chairmen, and National Assembly Members, have followed Governor Oborevwori into the APC. This speaks volumes about the trust, leadership, and vision he commands,” Obule affirmed.
He criticized Ozobo’s attempts to undermine the political reality in Delta State, accusing him of misleading the public and sowing unnecessary divisions in the new political landscape.
“The grassroots PDP members Ozobo refers to are not naive. They have aligned with the Governor because they recognize his leadership, vision, and sincerity. The PDP, as it once was, has now realigned under the progressive platform of the APC—thanks to the Governor’s decisive leadership,” Obule stated.
Hon. Obule urged Comrade Ozobo to refrain from politicizing developmental projects, particularly those that directly benefit communities like Ayakoromor, which have long suffered from neglect.
“The Governor is dedicated to closing the infrastructural gap in our riverine communities.
Projects like the Ayakoromor Bridge are vital for the people and the economy, not political tools. Governor Oborevwori is determined to see them completed, undistracted by divisive rhetoric,” Obule concluded.
He reiterated that as the political landscape in Delta State evolves, Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to the people remains steadfast, focusing on delivering the dividends of democracy for all residents, regardless of political affiliation.
“The Ayakoromor Bridge, once just a distant hope, is now at the forefront of the Governor’s priorities. The people in the area can be assured that Governor Oborevwori is committed to making this vision a reality,” Obule concluded.
