Comrade Opia Joshua Ojieh, the Supreme Leader and National Coordinator of the Movement for the Emancipation of Ndokwa Nation, has called for all Deltans, particularly those from Delta North Senatorial District, to unite in support of Senator Ned Nwoko and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He made this appeal during a meeting with PDP loyalists and youths at his residence in Kwale, Ndokwa West LGA, following his return from the United Kingdom.
Opia, who also serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, urged the people to allow both leaders to complete their first terms without unnecessary distractions and political infighting.
Opia emphasized that Senator Nwoko is working diligently for the people, especially in addressing the long-standing power issues in Ndokwa Nation.
He explained that the Senator has been advocating for the restoration of electricity in the region through the stepping down of the Independent Power Plant (IPP) projects, a vital move given that Ndokwa nation, particularly Kwale, has been without steady electricity for over two decades despite hosting several international companies.
Opia praised Nwoko for being the only prominent politician from the area who has consistently spoken up about these critical issues, in contrast to others who have remained silent.
He further clarified that there is no political rift between Senator Nwoko and Governor Oborevwori, as some detractors have suggested.
He said: “The Senator merely requested the state government’s intervention in ongoing projects such as the IPP and Ogwashi-Uku dam, which are crucial for the development of Delta North.”
These requests, according to Opia, should not be misconstrued as conflicts but seen as necessary advocacy for the betterment of the region.
Opia also addressed recent criticisms directed at Senator Nwoko, particularly from Hon. Obule. He called on Obule to focus on political matters within his local government area, rather than attempting to stir up tension in Delta North.
Comrade Opia, who has known Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for a long time, vouched for his good intentions and partnership with Senator Nwoko, urging everyone to respect the dynamics of Delta North politics.
He reminded Hon. Obule that Senator Nwoko is the only PDP Senator in Delta State and, as such, deserves the full backing of the party and the people.
In addition, Opia refuted rumors that there was a political agreement for former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to return to the Senate.
He argued that after Senator Nwoko completes his second term, it would be the rightful turn of Ndokwa Nation to produce the next Senator from Delta North.
This is in line with the rotation among the major ethnic groups of the district, as the Ika and Aniocha/Oshimili groups have already had their share of representation in the Senate.
He urged the people of Delta North to prepare for Ndokwa’s leadership at the Senate in the near future.
Opia condemned those who have been attempting to undermine Senator Nwoko’s efforts, stating that the senator’s commitment to advocating for the welfare of his constituents is both his duty and his constitutional right.
He pointed out that such neglect of important issues would not be tolerated in regions like Ijaw, Isoko, or Urhobo, and questioned why Ndokwa Nation should continue to suffer in silence.
He called on the people of Ndokwa to stand firm in their support for Senator Nwoko, who has done an outstanding job representing them at the National Assembly and urged them to rally behind Governor Oborevwori as both leaders work towards fulfilling their mandates to the people of Delta State.
By emphasizing the need for unity, Comrade Opia’s message underscored the importance of allowing Senator Nwoko and Governor Sheriff to focus on delivering positive results for Delta North and the entire Delta State without the distraction of internal political squabbles.