A powerful message of responsibility and grassroots leadership echoed through Koko, headquarters of Warri North, as the Executive Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Nicholas Efele, called on political office holders to remain accountable to the people whose mandate they hold in trust.
The charge came during an empowerment programme he organized in Warri North Local Government Area, where 100 beneficiaries drawn from the LGAs 10 wards received financial support under the theme, “Empower the People for Tomorrow’s Followership.”
The initiative was more than a distribution exercise, it was a deliberate statement on inclusive leadership and grassroots engagement.
Addressing party members and community leaders, Efele underscored a fundamental principle of democratic governance: leadership is stewardship.
He noted that political structures are sustained not by positions, but by people. According to him, meaningful leadership requires consistent engagement, practical support, and sustained investment in followers at the grassroots.
“The party belongs to all of us,” he said. “It is the people who give it life. While we may not meet every need, even modest support can reignite hope and strengthen loyalty. Just as a church nurtures its congregation, a political party must care for its members.”
Efele encouraged beneficiaries to use the support wisely and reaffirmed confidence in the developmental strides of the Delta State Government.
He highlighted landmark infrastructure efforts such as the Ogbonbiri Road project and the completed Tebu water project as tangible proof of government’s commitment to progress and improved living standards of people of Warri North.
He further urged continued support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu, commending ongoing federal efforts to reposition the nation.
In his remarks, APC chieftain Michael Diden, popularly known as Ejele, described the initiative as a sincere appreciation of loyal supporters.
He emphasized that political office carries both privilege and obligation, the obligation to uplift those who sustain the system.
Diden expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for their contributions to the state’s development.
Projecting confidence ahead of the next electoral cycle, he declared that President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori would secure re-election in 2027.
He also formally announced his intention to contest the Delta South Senatorial seat in the forthcoming elections, asserting strong grassroots support across the district and expressing confidence of broader victory in the next race.
Chairman of the occasion and APC Chairman in Warri North LGA, Hon. Omashele William, described the programme as a strategic investment in the future, noting that empowerment fosters stability and strengthens democratic participation.
He commended Efele’s initiative and urged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity.
Former Deputy Chairman of Warri North LGA, Hon. Dio Tenga, called the programme exemplary and challenged other leaders to emulate the model of grassroots support.
He praised Governor Oborevwori’s road infrastructure drive and commended President Tinubu’s national leadership.
Hon. Princess Abigeal emphasized the multiplier effect of empowering women, noting that when women are strengthened economically, families and communities rise with them.
Adding a broader political perspective, Ese Sanko, National Secretary of Delta Political Vanguard, highlighted the group’s longstanding influence in shaping leadership in Delta State, pointing to Governor Oborevwori as one of its notable products.
For beneficiaries like Mr. Ayiba Tiemo of Ward 8, the initiative represented more than financial assistance, it was recognition, inclusion, and renewed hope.
Beyond the speeches and political declarations, the event reinforced a central message: sustainable political leadership is built not merely on electoral victories, but on consistent, visible commitment to the people at the grassroots.
