Senator Nwoko’s Anioma State Agenda and Sustainable Peace in Delta State (OPINION)
By Jim Derek Onokuta
The quest for the creation of Anioma State by Senator Ned Nwoko has raised concerns about his approach and potential consequences for Delta State. A trending video showed Senator Nwoko issuing instructions to State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, in a manner suggesting he wielded significant power and influence. This posture is crude, disrespectful, insensitive, and unacceptable.
The Okpai Power Plant, which Senator Nwoko referred to, is neither a Delta State Government project nor under the control of Governor Oborevwori. The power plant is owned by a conglomerate of multinational companies and the federal government. Media reports indicate that the House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the abandonment of the $38.7 million NNPC-NAOC Joint Venture Okpai Independence Power Plant project Phase II.
Deltans are perplexed by Senator Nwoko’s outburst, berating Governor Oborevwori over the completion of a power plant outside the state government’s control. He should direct his frustrations to the joint owners and partners of the Okpai Power Plant project.
Senator Nwoko’s actions tend to create division between immediate past governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, and incumbent Governor Oborevwori, by comparing infrastructure development between Delta Central and Delta North. His actions have been described as inappropriate, divisive, and capable of creating unnecessary political tension.
Senator Nwoko should refrain from pitting Delta North against other senatorial districts and focus on his National Assembly assignment. Comparing Delta Central to Delta North in terms of infrastructure development is misleading, given Delta North’s significant development during the previous administration and ongoing projects.
Governor Oborevwori’s administration is barely 15 months old, and comparing his performance to the 8-year tenure of the previous administration is unfair. Deltans cherish the cordial relationship between Senator Okowa and Governor Oborevwori.
Disputes between past and present governors have far-reaching consequences, hindering progress and development. Delta State has been peaceful and will continue to be.
Senator Nwoko should prioritize peace and unity, focusing on legislative duties and allowing Governor Oborevwori to govern. The governor’s vision to Advance Delta beyond 2027 should be supported, with projects implemented across senatorial districts.
The people of Delta Central supported Delta North during the previous administration; now it is their turn to benefit from power rotation, extending socioeconomic and infrastructural development to the other senatorial districts. Senator Nwoko and supporters should support Delta Central and the governor in the spirit of equity, good conscience, and brotherhood.
If Anioma State becomes a reality, what will be the fate of Delta Central and Delta South in terms of infrastructure development? Do Senator Nwoko and associates care about other senatorial districts’ development?
Deltans advocate for equal development across senatorial districts on a power rotation basis. Senator Nwoko’s actions are divisive and distasteful. He should pursue the Anioma State agenda without crossing the red line.
Delta will remain united despite Nwoko’s strategies. Peace building should prioritize progress and development for all.
