CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR MESSAGE FROM DELTA DECIDES

Godspower Onwudiwe
As we celebrate, the year ahead presents before us an unprecedented opportunity for Deltans to withdraw the mantle of leadership from our TESTED and FAILED politicians; as it is said in our adage, that it is in the bitterness of a bitter kola that you can tell it of its bitterness. Yes! This is the right time to SHUN those politicians who have failed us abysmally.

I SPONSORED THE MINIMUM WAGE BILL..DORIS UBOH-OGUNKOYA

Engr. Doris Uboh-Ogunkoya
Engineer Doris Uboh-Ogunkoya is one of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP Delta north senatorial aspirant. She is a politician of no mean repute. She was in the House of Representatives between 2007 and 2011, representing Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State. In this interview with DELTA DECIDES, this political amazon gives reasons why she is vying for the senate, her chances of clinching the People’s Democratic Party, PDP ticket, and the legacies she left for her constituency.

COMMUNIQUÉ SAGA: OKOCHA DISOWNS OKOWA, MONYE OTHERS

Peter Eloka Okocha
As controversies continues to trail the authenticity of the communiqué issued by some desperate governorship aspirants who are knee on foisting their aspiration on deltans, one of the aspirant whose name was included to give credence to the communique has denied being part of the meeting. 

JONATHAN A GOOD PRODUCT, SAYS OBUH

ABUJA- People’s Democratic Party, PDP, governorship aspirant, in Delta State, Mr. Tony Obuh, has described President Goodluck Jonathan as a good product that well-meaning Nigerians were pleased to relate with.

Obuh stated this at Abuja when he paid a solidarity visit to the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria, TAN, led by Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah.

He said, “I am happy to partner with TAN because everybody wants to partner with something that is good. President Goodluck Jonathan is a good product, which is why we are very happy to associate with him.”

“Mr. President has performed very well in the power sector, in the agricultural sector he has also succeeded in eliminating middlemen in the distribution of fertilizers. He has transformed our airports; the transportation sector has also witnessed tremendous improvements. He needs our support to do more, which is why we are happy to partner with TAN for his re-election,” Obuh stated.

Obuh, one of the leading aspirants in the state, was accompanied by top members of his campaign organization, including the director- general, Chief Fred Majemite, Chief Emma Ejiofor, Frank Nwugo, Arch Ambby, Jude Sinebe, Agbefe Sebastin and Felix Emadoye.

He assured the TAN team, including the Delta State Coordinator, Prince Ned Nook, that the Tony Obuh Campaign Organisation, was unshakably committed to Mr President’s re-election bid and would mobilize its members and resources to support the president.

In his response, Dr Uba expressed joy that Sir Obuh was willing to partner with the NGO, adding that Obuh had all it takes to work with the group.
Source: Vanguard

RE: ALLEGATION OF FORGED SIGNATURE ON A COMMUNIQUE PRODUCED AND SIGNED BY DELTA STATE GOVERNORSHIP ASPIRANTS AFTER THEIR MEETING ON TUESDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2014

Press Statement for Immediate Release
RE: ALLEGATION OF FORGED SIGNATURE ON A COMMUNIQUE PRODUCED AND SIGNED BY DELTA STATE GOVERNORSHIP ASPIRANTS AFTER THEIR MEETING ON TUESDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2014

Our attention has been drawn to an online publication, Delta Decide, 2015 alleging that Prof. Sylvester Monye, MFR, a Delta State Governorship aspirant forged the signature of Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, another Governorship aspirant, on a communique issued after their meeting.

We want to make it categorically clear that Professor Monye did not sign the communique on behalf of either Ndudi Elumelu or any other aspirant.

GOVERNORSHIP ASPIRANT IMPLICATED IN AN ALLEGED FRAUD

Controversial Communique
Professor Sylvester Monye
As the race for the Unity House, Asaba gets fiercer among the battalion of aspirants, there is an indication that some of the aspirants are resolving to applying desperate means to achieve their tall ambition of governing one of the richest states in the country. The manoeuvre and scheming by these aspirants to win the ticket of their party and possibly the election to Unity House so as to loot  the state treasury has been identified as the principal reason some of the governorship aspirants are doing everything possible to bring each other down.

2015: DELTA POLICE CAUTIONS POLITICIANS AGAINST VIOLENCE

ASABA – Ahead of the yuletide and the forthcoming general elections in the country, the Delta state PoliceCommand has warned criminals as well as politicians in the state against involving in crimes and encouraging violence, vowing to deal decisively on anyone caught.

The state Commissioner of Police, Alkali Baba Usman, handed this warning at Asaba, during a press briefing where the Command also paraded some suspected armed robbers and cultists arrested in November.

“It is indeed another happy moment for me to welcome you to this press briefing and to showcase some of our major achievements in reducing crime in the Command since the beginning of this month,” he said.

He said operatives of Anti-Crime patrol team from Obiarukwu Division in Ukwuani Local Government Area, while on patrol along New Sapele, Agbor road, intercepted one Toyota Highlander Jeep with, Reg. No. ABH 629 AA withthree occupants, and on sighting the police, they abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush.

According to him, preliminary investigation revealed that the said vehicle was snatched at gun point from its owner, Engr. Joseph Okolie in Warri the same day, noting that within this month, 12 suspects were arrested, 12 fire arms recovered, six cartridges and four vehicles, as well as two motor cycles were recovered.

DELTA 2015: OBUH HAS NO BAGGAGE OF ALLEGATIONS AGAINST HIM...NED NWOKO***Canvases Support for him

Hon. Ned Nwoko
Former member of the House of Representatives representing Aniocha/Oshimili Constituency, Ned Nwoko, has thrown his weight behind the governorship ambition of Tony Obuh, saying Obuh’s emergence will be a good choice for the people of Delta State.

Nwoko, in a chat with journalists in Abuja, said Obuh has the qualifications to be Governor of the state, saying all other aspirants to the office should queue behind him and support his emergence.

THE SURUGEDE: DESPERATE URGE OF SELFISH '14 ABUJA' GUBER ASPIRANTS

As the drum from the land of the spirit continues to churn out sweet melodies, the sun bird (Nza in ibo) standing by the roadside continues to hop around in complete ecstasy of what its ear was hearing. The probing eyes of the ordinary being wondered in confusion and surprise to what the sun bird was doing but as we say in our adage....''The bird that dances by the bush path has an ear listening to a sweet song coming out from the bush''

As the communiqué issued by the '14 Abuja' governorship aspirants continues to attract more controversial views, new developments are beginning to send strong wind to expose the anus of the fowl. When Delta Decides (DD) raised an alarm last week on the desperate ambition of these governorship aspirants implicated in an alleged signature forgery, we were called names by their political surrogates, they didnt stop at name calling, we were also threatened of legal action but now, we are justified as more revelations have continued to trail the purported communique issued by these aspirants. 

2015: PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN DESERVES SECOND TERM-NGO

The community awareness and development network, says President Goodluck Jonathan deserves a second term on account of the impact of his transformation agenda on the nations socio-economic life.

The group gave the endorsement during the maiden edition of its awareness rally for the re-election of president Jonathan which held in Asaba the delta state capital, south-south Nigeria.

According to our reporter, the executive officers of the Community Awareness Development Network, CAWAN, a nongovernmental organization highlighted the catalog of achievement of President Goodluck Jonathan in less than four years. They say the president success story and virtually all sectors of national economy over qualifies him for a second term.

The national women leader, Dr Mrs Mariam Jubril said, "I am in full support to Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan transformation agenda and we urge all Deltans and Nigerians in general to join hands in insuring that come 2015, Goodluck Jonathan emerge as our president."

Another member said, "We deem it necessary to go round all the nook and cranny of Nigeria, all the communities to let them know that Mr. president deserves another chance." CAWAN says even as a non-governmental organization, it feels that the general progress of the Nigerian nation and its people should not be allowed to suffer on the altar of politics.

Accordindg to the state secretary of CAWAN, Delta State, Mr. Egbonimali Shadrack, "Our mission is to foster cooperation, collaboration, networking and exchange of ideas and skills and also identifying challenges and weaknesses militating against Nigeria's socio-economic and political growth and come up with lasting solutions to them."

The Asaba event is the first in a series of nationwide awareness and solidarity rallies planned by the Community Awareness And Development Network for President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2105 election.

2015: NGO TO HOLD RALLY FOR PRESIDENT JONATHAN

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO, the Community Awareness And Development Network (CAWAN), is holding a one-day rally for President Goodluck Jonathan.

The rally which embraces like minds from the South South zone, will take place at the Cenotaph on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 10 am.

According to the state secretary of CAWAN, Mr. Egbonimali Shedrack, national executive members of the political bigwigs and interest groups expected at the rally.

I WAS NEVER INVITED BY EFCC--OBUH

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State, Sir Tony Chuks Obuh, has debunked allegations that he was quizzed by officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in Abuja over alleged sums of money found in his account.

Obuh said that the allegation was unfounded adding that he was had never been invited by the EFCC to explain any financial transaction.

The front-line governorship aspirants said he had been as free as air pointing out that he was busy planning the formal declaration of his aspiration to be governor in 2015.

Said Obuh: “Ï was not invited by the EFCC either by letter or by phone call, to respond to anything or to account for anything. As you can see, I am working freely on the streets of Nigeria and particularly Delta State. I came from Delta State on Sunday and I participated in the ward congress held last Saturday. I had no invitation, not even a phone call from any organisation or EFCC, to respond to anything. So, I was never arrested, detained or queried by any organisation”.

According to Obuh, the allegations that he had been invited and detained by the EFCC, were ”some of those stories coming from the pit of hell and created by those who have decided to abandon the issues, in terms of political contest, to blackmail or run others down.”

On how he would tackle the issue of graft, the aspirant said there was need for collaboration of all stakeholders, adding however, that he was out for lasting legacies.

” For me as a person, I have been in the civil service for 32 years. I have not heard of any invitation from anybody, both within or from the EFCC to answer or respond to any enquiry as to corrupt practices in all the ministries I have worked. If I have been able to keep a clean bill, rising to the position of Permanent Secretary, a position that I will continue to cherish all the days of my life, I do not think that I will now go out, in the terminal days of my life, to do something that will give me sad memories. At 57, I am closer to where I am going to. What I am looking for now is something that can leave my name as a legacy, both for my family and to the people of the state. I am not going to do anything to soil that image,” he added

DELTA 2015: OKOCHA JOINS GUBER RACE, PROMISES TO RUN 'PAN-DELTAN' GOVERNMENT

A maritime expert and governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State for the 2015 elections, Mr. Peter Okocha, on Sunday said he would introduce a private sector mentality into the business of governance.

He also said he would run a ‘pan-Deltan’ government which would use the 13 per cent derivation fund to develop the oil-producing areas of the state.

Okocha’s position was contained in a statement by his Campaign Organisation which said the aspirant made the promise at the National Secretariat PDP in Abuja when he returned his Expression of Interest Form for the governorship race in Delta State.

“It is my intention to introduce the private sector mentality into the business of governance. In fact, good corporate governance would be the driving force of my government. Civil servants must deliver efficient services and appropriately remunerated.

“Furthermore, if elected, I will use the 13 per cent derivation fund to develop the oil- producing areas of the state because the people in these areas suffer environmental degradation, untold health hazards as well as economic deprivation resulting from oil exploration activities.

“My government would be pan-Deltan. No part of the state would feel abandoned and I assuredly declare that it is my intention to build on the legacy of the present administration,” he said.

UDUAGHAN THREATENS LEGAL ACTION AGAINST FACEBOOK ACCUSER

DETERMINED to clear his name of any financial misdemeanor, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has threatened to institute a legal action against one Odafe Harry, a Facebook user, who accused him of looting the state treasury.

Uduaghan, on his Facebook account with the name Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, contended that he had already briefed his lawyers to institute a legal action against Odafe to show the veracity of his claim.

Odafe, in his 30s, last week Friday, posted on a Facebook group, “DELTANS; HOW UNA SEE AM?” with Uduaghan’s picture calling people’s attention to “behold the face of the greatest looter of our time; Deltans, would we allow this thief to go to the Senate?”

The post has attracted 110 comments and 16 likes from members of the forum, but Uduaghan said Odafe must come out to prove before a competent court that the allegation was true.

The governor‘s post came 14 hours later, at exactly 8.09 a.m. on Saturday.

Uduaghan insisted that since the accuser had the right to speak his mind, he also had the right to clear his name.

Uduaghan’s post in the same group read: “Dear admin. My attention has been drawn to a post by one Odafe Harry at 6.18.p.m. on Sunday. While he has his right to say his mind, I also have my right to clear my name. I am, therefore, briefing my lawyers. Odafe needs to give the facts of the money I looted, how I looted the money and where I am keeping the money.”
Source: Tribune

DELTA 2015: EMETULU PICKS NOMINATION FORM, URGES DELTANS TO SUPPORT HIM

As the jostling of who succeed the incumbent Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan becomes intense, the former Commissioner for Power and Energy and a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governorship aspirant in Delta state, Hon. Charles Emetulu picked his governorship nomination form at the PDP secretariat in Abuja, thereby dispelling the rumour that he has backed out of the race.

Emetulu believed in the political circle in Delta state as the, “bridge that link Delta North, Central and South,” because of the strategic position of the Ndokwa people who are strong political allies of the Urhobos.

ADVOCATE gathered that he resigned his appointment on Wednesday, 15th, October 2014, to enable him contest the Governorship election in Delta state and was also among those the Anioma leaders submitted their name to the President for consideration.

According to Hon. Emetulu, he said that he is in the race having consulted his family and associates, and he is convinced that if supported by the PDP to emerge as its candidate, he has the capacity to take Delta State to the next level, by consolidating and building on the gains so far recorded by the Uduaghan’s government, which he have beenna part.

Reacting to media report in one of the community paper in the state that he failed to resign from office before the deadline set by the PDP for all political appointee to resign if they are seeking elective position; Hon. Emetulu described the report as the figment of the reports’ imagination as the records are very clear that he tendered his resignation on October 15, 2014, five days before the party deadline.

He therefore, urged the good people of Delta state to disregard the said publication which according to him is the hallmark of junk journalism because the reporter has access to him to confirm his story but chose to be mischievous.

Hon. Emetulu also called on PDP delegates to the state congress to see him as the new face of Delta which embodies equity, justice and fairness, by voting enmasse for him at the party governorship primary scheduled for November 29, 2014.

He also promised to run all-inclusive government, where all sections of Delta state would have a sense of belonging, by giving to all parts of the state what is due to it, without forgetting the critical sector, the youth and the women empowerment which would become one of his cardinal policies.
Via Advocate

DELTA 2015: UTUAMA JOINS GOVERNORSHIP RACE

DEPUTY governor of Delta State, Professor Amos Utuama, yesterday, joined the governorship race in Delta State after the purchase of nomination form for him by The Peoples Network” for Prof. Amos Agbe Utuama for Governor 2015.

Addressing journalists after picking the form, chairman of the group, Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo, said having served for eight years under James Ibori and another eight years as deputy to Emmanuel Uduaghan, Utuama was better prepared knowledgeable and experienced to continue on the projects and development of the state.

According to him, it took the group a day to the deadline to purchase the form because the individual concerned had to raise the funds, explaining that a state like Delta with various tribes and interest needed a man neutral and unassuming.

According to him, “Prof. Utuama is a rare breed, an industrious, trustworthy, accomplished legal colossus with great insight and strong organisation ability. He is a man of integrity, an epitome of humility, a lover of peace, gentle as a dove, a dynamic, meticulous, reliable and versatile administrator, whose interpersonal relationship is second to none. This, perhaps, explains why he has been in the corridors of power without any known record of clashes with those above or below him. He is a beneficent and philanthropic administrator.

“As a party man, Prof. Utuama’s sense of loyalty, steadfastness and dedication is second to none. He is unlike others, who are notorious for dumping their parties at the least opportunity when the weather looks unfavourable and jumps back in when it serves their interest. He is a honourable and illustrious son of Delta State whose drive for excellence, selfless service and exemplary leadership are laudable colorants to his professional, political, administrative and scholarly success.

“We believe that Delta State needs a governor with proven ability to perform and a vision to transform, a governor who will accelerate to new frontiers the ground breaking works of Chief James Ibori and the developmental strides of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan. The state needs a governor who has every corner of the State in his heart and can pursue a broad epicenter development dynamics that will resound in all areas of the State. We are convinced that Prof. Utuama fits the bill of the kind of governor Delta State desires at this moment” he said.

2015: GOVERNOR UDUAGHAN SET FOR SENATE AS HE COLLECTS, SUBMITS EXPRESSION OF INTEREST, NOMINATION FORMS

True to widely held belief, Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan's Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the Delta South Senatorial district were submitted at the Peoples Democratic Party State Headquarters Asaba, Thursday.

Governor Uduaghan, whose forms were bought on October 17 by some of his political associates in G3 at the National Secretariat of the PDP, Wadata House, Abuja, has expressed his deep appreciation to all PDP faithful and Deltans for their outpouring of love and support and promised quality representation at the Red Chambers.

In his words, “History is in the making and I have to heed the calls of my people who have severally urged me to go to the Senate after my tenure as Governor of Delta State. I will not disappoint them. I will, by the grace of God give my senatorial zone quality representation.

I also want to appreciate President Goodluck Jonathan and assure him that I will put all my National and International reach at his disposal.

Meanwhile, the foremost political platform in the senatorial district, the G3, comprising Isoko, Ijaw and Itsekiri, has fully backed Dr. Uduaghan’s senatorial ambition.

Secretary of the group, Hon. Solomon Funkekeme said Governor Uduaghan is the best the district can present at the National Assembly at this critical moment of the nation’s democracy, stressing “his wealth of experience and leadership qualities stand him out.”

Also, the Isoko Advancement Network (IAN) has applauded the decision of Governor Uduaghan to contest the Senatorial seat, saying that the network is confident that the three ethnic groups that make up the zone be well represented at the senate.

Speaking yesterday in Asaba, Chairman of the IAN, Hon. Mike Ogwa said the Isoko nation is fully and solidly in support of Governor Uduaghan’s senatorial aspiration and promised to mobilise the people of the district to back him.
By Sunny Areh

DELTA LG POLL: IMPORTANT NOTICE

This is to inform the general public particularly deltans that Delta Decides, a registered grassroot socio political pressure group has been accredited as observer and authorized by DSIEC to tweet and blog this Saturday LG election with videos and photographs.

As an accredited observer, we shall be dispatching our men and women with full kits to the following local government areas....
1. Ika South
2. Ika Northeast
3. Isoko South
4. Isoko North
5. Aniocha South
6. Ukwani
7. Ndokwa East
8. Ethiope East
9. Ughelli North
10. Ughelli South.

However, as an active citizen who would want to engage in the process, your involvement will be like that of an election observer, you are not an accredited DSIEC election observer as no kit for will be provided for you. Your duty would be to watch the process, quietly take note and report back to us your observation of the process as a concerned patrotic citizen who wants a better DSIEC in future.

Please note Delta Decides does not have money to give you, this is strictly a patrotic citizenship project as no fund was provided by DSIEC for this project.

If you live within the state and want to volunteer with us, please reach the coordinator, Mr Darlington Okonma on 08033864292 for further directives.

Thank you all.

Signed:
Mr. Egbonimali Shadrack
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Delta Decides

DELTA 2015: OBUH PICKS GUBER FORM ***Says his journey to the Unity House Asaba is a done deal

The political Wada House of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, hosted a credible politician today as star PDP gubernatorial aspirant, Sir Tony Chuks Obuh procured the party's governorship nomination forms.

Obuh was accompanied by the Director General of Tony Obuh Guber 2015 Project, Chief (Barrister) Fred Majemite and other top Delta State PDP Chieftains.

Speaking to reporters, Obuh declared that his journey to the Unity House, Asaba is a done deal.

"It is now clear to those who have been peddling rumours in the past couple of days that Sir Obuh is at best the political "John The Baptist" who came to announce the coming of the "Real Aspirant" that their source of information is of a truth "barren and politically misleading". One of his campaigners said.

Project 2015 Boss, Chief Majemite while also speaking said that Obuh is not just an aspirant but the best and most qualified among the legion, some of whom are currently sponsoring faceless political groups to publish falsehood, character assassination deliberately targeted at our amiable Governor, His Excellency the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmaunuel Iweta Uduaghan and star governorship aspirant, Sir Tony Obuh.

He said the Governor by virtue of his position as the Leader of PDP in Delta State is a major stakeholder who by PDP and Nigerian constitutional provisions possess the right to participate and discuss issues and events that pertains the survival and progress of PDP and Delta State.

Chief Majemite said that Project 2015 will no longer deal with "Petty Political Issues (PPI)" especially now that Sir Obuh has picked the Governorship Nomination
Forms (GNF).

He appealed to all political pressure groups currently mobilizing for the landslide victory of Sir Obuh both for the party primaries and 2015 polls to intensify efforts in their "neighbour to neighbour" mobilization across the length and breathe of Delta State to ensure that after "Coca-Cola" soft drink, that Obuh's name ranks next in popularity.

However in different parts of the state, the news of Obuh's procurement of nomination forms sparked great excitement and jubilations as people particularly the youths in Asaba were seen chanting the Obuh Victory Train song.

DELTA 2015: OLEJEME N20M DONATION TEARS SUPPORTERS APART IN ASABA

WHAT was supposed to be a peaceful donation of N20 million to the Delta State branch of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) by one of its governorship aspirants, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, at the party’s secretariat in Asaba turned violent when some supporters demanded for their own share of the money or else they will vandalise the party’s new edifice.

Olejeme, the Chairman of Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), had stormed the secretariat with her horde of supporters to notify the party’s executive members of her intention to seek the party’s ticket for the 2015 governorship election.

The party’s Chairman, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, who sat on the podium and was flanked by the Secretary, Chief Solomon Ogba and other top party leaders, had showered encomiums on the female aspirant for taking time off her busy schedule to come to notify the executive members of her intention.

And overwhelmed by the show of support, Mrs. Olejeme promptly signalled to her aides who brought two medium Ghana-Must-Go and one big leather bags containing wads of money all in N1,000 denomination when she stood up to talk.

She explained that N10 million was to “wage” the traditional breaking of kolanuts” while the remaining N10 million was for the furnishing of the secretariat which was opened by the National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, earlier in the day.

She said amidst a thunderous ovation: “I always tell people that the PDP chairman in my state is the most valuable. He already has my vote as he goes to the Senate. I would make the state as beautiful as me if I win.”

There was, however, pandemonium when she left after the donation as the motley crowd of women, party faithful and thugs laid a siege at the premises demanding for their own share of the money, and openly calling the executive members who went upstairs to sort out the largesse names.

"We will shake this secretariat this night. We won’t leave here until we are settled. We will scatter this place. The executive members cannot eat alone and leave us out”, one of the youths threatened.

The fire-spitting youths, who waited anxiously downstairs, defied the threats and intimidation of gun-totting policemen and threatened dire consequences should they be left out of the sharing of the money.

By Hendrix Oliomogbe

NFF SACKS KESHI, PICKS AMODU

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has sacked Stephen Keshi, coach of the country’s national team, the Super Eagles.

The decision was made Wednesday night by the executive committee of the newly constituted Nigeria Football Federation, at a meeting at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

Keshi, will now be replaced by Shaibu Amodu, a former coach of the team. He will be supported by Salisu Yusuf, Gbenga Ogunbote and Aloysius Agu. Garba Lawal, a former player will serve as the team ‘s coordinator.

Amodu as a caretaker coach, will take charge of the team for the last two matches in the qualifying round for the 2015 African Cup of Nations.

Keshi’s three-year contract with NFF actually expired at the end of the World Cup in Brazil, where he led the team to the second round of the competition, just after winning the African Cup of Nations.

The team have had a run of bad results since then, losing to Sudan and Congo in the Group A qualifiers and drawing with South Africa.

The team rccorded a 3-1 victory over Sudan in Abuja on Wednesday.
But the NFF executives did not seem to be impressed to give Keshi a new contract, more so since Keshi had boasted that he has several African countries waiting to hire him.

DELTA 2015: ELUMELU GOES SPIRITUAL, DECLARES IN CHURCH ***Donates Cars and Tricycles to deltans

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Health, Mr. Ndudi Elumelu, has declared his intention to run for governor of Delta State.

The lawmaker, who is the younger brother of renowned banker, Tony Elumelu, made the declaration at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Onicha-Uku in Aniocha-North Local Government Area of Delta State.

A statement on Wednesday said Elumelu seized the opportunity to commit his governorship ambition to God.

Elumelu, who also runs a non-governmental organisation, Ndudi Elumelu Foundation, donated 10 vehicles and 30 tricycles for distribution to people in the three senatorial districts of the state as part of his empowerment programme.

He thanked the foundation members for their steadfastness and promised more incentives for the coordinators to facilitate their task of mobilising the electorate towards the 2015 elections.

He advised them to avoid distractions by remaining focused and mindful of their reactions to arguments from members of the public with regards to who becomes the governor of Delta State.

Earlier, at the dedication sermon, the Assistant Parish Priest of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Onicha-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Rev. Fr. Ignatius Chigbo advised Christians to judiciously use their talents and gifts to the Glory of God and the benefit of their generation.

He commended the wisdom of the governorship aspirant for committing the project into the hand of God stressing that all success comes from God, and urged Christians to make mercy and compassion their watchword in ministering to the needs of the less privileged in the society.

Special prayers were subsequently held for Elumelu who seeks to win the Peoples Democratic Party governorship primary.

DELTA 2015: HON. OCHEI AND THE IPP PROJECT***What happened to our IPP project?

Hon. Victor Ochei
"I heard that that boy Victor Ochei wants to be a governor too.That boy is too ambitious. He collected about N18bn for the IPP project and pocketed it and now he is also saying he wants to be the governor"....Pa EK Clark.

The above statement was made by Chief EK Clark early this year. This statement by an elder statesman was not just a statement but an obvious indictment of then speaker, Rt Hon Victor Ochei whose company (though, he claims to have deinvested from it) Davnotch was alleged to have collected close to N20bn for the IPP project. This project was supposed to serve the interest of all Deltans including Ochei, Pa Clark, Gov Uduaghan, Engr Charles Emetulu the Energy and Power Commissioner and Ochei's 'Yes we believe' team.

DELTA 2015: GBAGI SPITS FIRE, VOWS TO FIGHT AGAINST PDP ZONING

PEEVED by the rumour that the Delta State 2015 Governorship has been zoned to Delta North, former Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi has said he would fight against zoning, insisting that the State Governorship has never been zoned.

Gbagi who spoke when he paid a consultative visit to the State leadership of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Asaba, said the governorship position has always been contested for by aspirants from the three senatorial districts from inception of democracy till date.

He said; “no matter what it takes, I will govern Delta,” insisting that he was the most qualified amongst those vying for the gubernatorial seat in 2015. He held he has watched his hands very clean as a politician, adding that he has more stake than other governorship aspirants in the State.

Gbagi said; “Nobody has ever come to say I have stolen or that I have taken anybody’s wife. I will not take Delta State money,” soliciting the support of the party’s leadership and promised to use his wealth of experience and contact all over the world to transform the State.

Responding on behalf of the State PDP executive, Chief Solomon Ogba assured that that the party had agreed that delegates’ votes would count at the party’s primary and said: “the party has not taken any position on zoning and that is why we are receiving all aspirants. It is a contest and whoever emerges with the highest votes will be the party’s candidate.

“My appeal is that when someone emerges as the party’s candidate, other aspirants should support him. Only one person can be governor at a time and it is only God that can decide that. Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan clarified a lot of issues when he said he does not know who will succeed him”

By Festus Ahon

WE GAVE CLARK 14.5M THROUGH ORUBEBE TO DELIVER OGBORU IN 2011---ANTHONY EZEAGWU

Asaba- The Chairman of the defunct Democratic People’s Party (DPP) and now a top official of the Labor Party (LP) in Delta State chapter, has accused former Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a former federal commissioner of Information and an Ijaw leader, of accepting an inducement of N14.5 million from Great Ovedje Ogboru, the DPP’s governorship candidate in 2007 and 2011, promising to woo Ijaw voters for Mr. Ogboru in 2011.

Mr. Ezeagwu made the allegation last week in Asaba, the state capital, as he refuted media reports in which Mr. Clark reportedly claimed that he raised N42 million for Mr. Ogboru’s governorship campaign in 2011.

The LP chairman officially insisted that Mr. Ogboru sent N14.5 million to Mr. Clark through former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe. He added that the Ijaw political figure could not deny receiving Mr. Ogboru’s cash.

“Ogboru gave E.K Clark N14.5 million through Orubebe that cannot be denied from any source. That money was given to him to enable him [to] deliver Ogboru in the Ijaw area. He requested for it and it was in turn given to him. But the promise to deliver Ogboru in those areas was not fulfilled. I don’t know why people will just want to make cheap popularity by trying to blackmail people,” said Mr. Ezeagwu.

He said Mr. Clark “was on oath” in Mr. Ogboru’s election petition against Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, but turned around to ask some of the petitioners to embrace Mr. Uduaghan.

Mr. Ezeagwu, who is currently the state chairman of the Labor Party, said he was aware of N42 million was raised and given to a group called DCC, an appendage of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), headed by Mr. Clark. However, he stated emphatically that the money was not at any time given to Mr. Ogboru as Mr. Clark alleged.

“There was a group called DCC, which E.K Clark and his group were using at that time. They came and said they wanted to support us. This money [Edwin Clark] is talking about, Ogboru never touched that money. Neither did I touch it or see it. DCC members shared this money among themselves, [saying] they were going to work for DPP. Ogboru never made away with their money. It was brought and shared among their group and they also wanted to hijack our structure at that time.

“It’s good to put the record straight. We didn’t know whether they used the money for us or not, but they said they were going to work for us. If not for the fact that we are magnanimous, would we even say that the money was used for us when it was not given to us?”

The LP official said it was unfortunate that a man like Mr. Clark would “wake up and begin to make this kind of insinuation to tarnish a young man’s image.”

Two weeks ago, Mr. Clark had alleged that he raised N42 million and gave to Mr. Ogboru for the 2011 governorship election in Delta State, adding that the then DPP candidate ran away with the money.

LG POLL: DELTA DECIDES, OTHER GROUPS ENLISTED AS ELECTION OBSERVERS

ASABA-The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission has approved 12 Observer groups to participate in the forthcoming Delta State Local Government Council Elections scheduled for Saturday, 25th October, 2014.

The approved organizations are as follows:
LIST OF OBSERVERS FOR DELTA STATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL ELECTIONS FOR 25th OCTOBER, 2014.

S/NO. ORGANIZATION
a. CHURCH OF NIGERIA ANGLICAN COMMUNION

b. DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT CARE & EMPOWERMENTL FOUNDATION

c. ASABE SHEHU YAR’ ADUA FOUNDATION

d. CITIZENSHIP RIGHTS AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE

e. ENVIRONMENTAL AND RURAL MEDIATION CENTRE

f. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA STUDENTS

g. AFRICAN CENTRE FOR LEADERSHIP STRATEGY & DEVELOPMENT

h. VALUE REBIRTH & EMPOWERMENT

i. NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN SOCIETIES

j. THE PRESIDENCY, OFFICE OF THE SPECIAL ADVISER ON ETHICS

k. DELTA DECIDES CREDIBILITY

l. AFRICAN CHRISTIAN CARE TRUST ORGANIZATION

2. The above listed organizations are to report to the Chairman, Election Observers Committee, DSIEC Headquarters, kilometre 8, Asaba/Onitsha Express Way, Asaba between 14th -17th October, 9,00am to 4pm to obtain information and complete necessary forms.

3. To ensure prompt and efficient processing of ID cards, all the accredited observer groups are enjoined to compile the photographs of their members for deployment in Delta State along with the names and submit to the Chairman of Election Observers Committee, DSIEC Headquarters on or before Friday, 17th October, 2014.

4. Meanwhile, the Commission wishes to stress that any observer group other than those listed above found in Delta State for the said elections shall be reprimanded.

5. Any further equiries should be directed to the Chairman, Election Observers Committee, DSIEC Headquarters, Asaba.

Greg Edeme
Chairman, Election Observers Committee

DELTA 2015: I AM THE BRIDGE BETWEEN THE YOUTHS AND ELDERS

Andrew Warri Foubiri
His name is Andrew Foubiri Warri. He is a medical doctor from Ijaw land. A young and vibrant man who has impacted positively on the lives of the less privileged. He has equally initiated the NDDC and the DESOPADEC free medical programme that have treated closed to 3 million in the past 13 years.
He is aspiring for the seat of the governor and he is seeking the support of Deltans.
He is seen in the state as a bridge between the youths and elders.
In this face-to-face interview with Deltans, he speaks on his plans for the state, why he is running under the platform of the PDP. He further bares his mind on the controversial PDP zoning formula.

Exerts.....

MAY WE KNOW YOU SIR..?

DELTA 2015: MY IMMEDIATE GOAL IS TO REDUCE THE LEVEL OF POVERTY IN THE STATE.....PROF. IZEGBU

Professor Victor Izegbu
Professor Victor Izegbu is one of the PDP top contender to the Unity house, Asaba, he is a philanthropist who has contributed his quota at helping the youths in various areas of endeavor thereby alleviating poverty among Deltans through his foundation, Onochie Izegbu Foundation. This Asaba born professor is of the former Urological Surgery at the University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirate. In this interview with Delta Decides, he spoke on his plans for Deltans, why he is running under the platform of the peoples democratic party, PDP, and he equally bares his mind on the controversial issue of zoning.

Excerpts:

DELTA DECIDES SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT.

This is to inform all aspirants queuing behind the peoples democratic party, PDP that NEC has released the time table and cost of interest forms for the November 29th and December.6th 2014  Governorship and Presidential primaries respectively ahead 2015 general Elections.
Subsequently, State House of Assembly primaries is slated for 15th Nov.2014. While National Assembly is 19th Nov 2014 , LGA congress is 8th Nov.2014.
SALES OF INTEREST FORMS Commences 10th October 2014.

Warri: New Voice in Delta Governorship

Dr. Andrew Warri
Since the return of democracy in 1999, Delta State has been known as a state that is meticulous in the election of its leaders , saddled with the responsibilities of handling issues at local , state and federal levels . This is responsible for presentation of high caliber , experienced and intelligent leaders at the aforementioned arms of government which has made the state to earn an enviable reputation as one of the best developed states in the country today. It is as a result of the need to present the best that they are opposed to candidates ’ imposition by godfathers, a trend that has now flourished in the nation ’s polity.
Although at the last count no fewer than thirty governorship aspirants have declared their intention to contest, but the attempt to produce the best for the leadership of the state has led to a deep search by the people for the right candidate. Among those presently considered to foot the bill is a man considered to represent the true yearnings of the people of Delta State –a young and humble medical doctor and seasoned administrator.

2015 Polls: PDP Announces Dates for Primary Elections ***Fixes 6 Dec. for presidential Primaries

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday announced the dates for its primary elections ahead of the 2015 general elections.

The party fixed Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 for its Governorship and Presidential Primaries respectively.

The announcement was made by Mr Olisa Metuh, the party`s National Publicity Secretary, in Abuja and was made available to Delta Decides

The party spokesman also said that the primaries for the National Assembly would hold on Nov. 22, adding that the dates were proposed by the party`s National Working Committee (NWC).

According to him, the dates were proposals that were subject to the approval of the party`s National Executive Committee (NEC) scheduled to meet on Sept. 18.

“ We expect all public servants, government appointees and elected party officials who are interested in contesting any position to resign their appointments seven days before the commencement of the ward congress election,’’ he said.

The  sales of nomination and expression of interest forms for various elective offices would be between Oct. 27 and 28.

This is to enable public office holders interested in elective offices to resign their appointments before Oct. 20 he said.

DELTA 2015: OBUH VISITS DEIN OF AGBOR****Seeks Royal Blessing

Sir Tony Obuh and Dein of Agbor
As the saying goes, charity begins at home. It is on this note that the Governorship aspirant; Tony Obuh paid a consultative visit to his revered monarch; the Dein of Agbor kingdom on the 15th of September, 2014.

Mr Tony Chuks Obuh who hails from Agbor-Oki in Ika south LGA sought the Royal blessing of his Monarch HRM Kiagborekuzi I, the DEIN of Agbor kingdom as he prepares for his Governorship ambition.

The visit of Obuh to the Dein's Palace was seen as the gathering of the Political Big wigs in the state as he was accompanied to the Palace with various political heavy weights such as; Hon. Monday Igbuya, majority leader, the Deputy speaker of Delta state house of assembly, Hon Pat Ejete, Hon Edijala, the Caretaker committee chairman of Uvwie, Chief Frank Nwugo amongst others.

THE TREACHEROUS HEART OF OUR POLITICIANS ***IT IS NOT STRANGE.

We are in the season and soon they will be blaring their siren around town. Surely they will be in town, yes, they will come but not to consult neither to hear the peoples' genuine complaints nor their needs and problems for those are not their headaches.

Surely they will be around, they will come to share few cups of rice ,salts and of course abada to their hungry and naked praise singers, just like what some NGO do in refugee camps. They will come to give their enslaved and mentally deluded urchins some life support peanuts.(to oil their political machines). They like it that way as it helps to keep their followers on the baseline of poverty. Their arithmetics is simple, keep them perpetually hungry so that they will continue to come to you kneeling and begging for handouts.

One thing very good with these treacherous political leaders is that they enjoy using hunger as a weapon to subdue and mesmerise the led for that is the only way they reason. Afterall , did they not say that ''Beggars and empty stomachs have no choice?.

Sadly enough, we have not learnt our lessons.

DELTANS THIS UPCOMING ELECTION, BE WISE!

SHOCKING REVELATION: Ogboru Received, Ran Away With N42m Election Money –Clark

Left-Ogboru, Rigth is Chief E.K Clark
Elder statesman and foremost Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark has made startling revelations on how the governorship candidate of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) in the 2007 and 2011 general elections in Delta State, Chief Great Ogboru ran away with N42m contributed for him to pursue his guber aspiration.

Clark, who spoke when an aspirant for the 2015 governorship race, Obaisi Ovie Omo-Agege visited his Kiagbodo country home in continuation of his consultation with stakeholders on his gubernatorial quest.

Recalling the political upheavals that engulfed the State in the aftermath of the emergence of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan as the State Governor in 2007, he said: “For sometime Delta was divided, there was no peace. I now met people like Great Ogboru to come and intervene but for reasons best known to them they lost. One has to be sincere. In this house, I collected money from people, I gave Ogboru on this floor N42 million I collected from people for him. What did he do with the money? When he failed, he ran away with the money to Lagos.

DELTA POLITICAL TORTOISES. ***We we must resist them.

Like the proverbial tortoise, their tongue is coated in sweet honey. They hardly make eye to eye contact when they are in the spirit of telling lies which is their trademark.

Making promises to them is as simple as they know their names. They are never interested in whatever objection you raise when they are in the spirit.

They hardly stand at a spot while reeling out their lies.
They are never tired of putting up a forced smile.
They sweat and sweat while blabbing out their lies because they want to deceive us.
They create problems where there is none and give the impression that they will solve it.
They do not want to be interrupted so that they don't forget their line of lies.

Their time is coming but we must make them understand that even though they see us children that we were not born yesterday.

Our tortoises in politics.....Look at them as they are coming.

DELTANS THIS IS OUR TIME.

DELTA 2015: YOUTHS DRUM SUPPORT FOR ANDREW WARRI

Delta State youths under the aegis of Youths for Good Governance (Y4GG) are drumming support for Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant, Dr Andrew Foubiri Warri for the seat of Delta State Governor in 2015.

The group in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Mr. Benson Osekavwebor enjoined the people of Delta State to support Andrew Warri who hailed from Ogbobagbene, Burutu LGA in his quest to become governor of Delta State, adding that evidence are bound that Andrew Warri had been the centre of attraction for many years for his special interest and passion as a change agent in Delta State and across Nigeria.

The statement which described him as a strong motivator, exceptional growth driver and selfless leader worthy of emulation pointed out that they are aligning with him because he had over time declared publicly that he is joining the governorship race in Delta State for the sake of humanity.

“This statement is considered to be true as he has over the years shown true kindness to local communities in providing adequate medical care and attention to those who needed it the most. In all honesty, Andrew Warri is presenting a ‘New Order’ in the politics of Delta State as he is the youngest among the governorship aspirants and he is the most adored by the youths of Delta State.

He is a recipient of multiple industries and organisational awards for superior leadership performance and contributions,” the statement disclosed, adding that as a medical consultant to Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on a Special Medical Referral Programme, he had to date treated surgically no fewer than 1,300 Niger Delta indigenes within and outside the country.

The statement mainatained that having worked in different capacity caring for the ordinary man in the society; the need to serve on a wider scale had made him to nurse the idea of contesting for the governor of Delta State where he would have the opportunity to better the lives of the people should he become the governor of Delta State.

“He is indeed a people-centric person that the people of Delta State must do well to embrace and work it in the future. Andrew Warri is an “Exceptional Achiever” that has the people in mind concerning everything that he is committed to doing. With his many qualifications, attributes and certificates, it will be fair to state here that he is the right man for the governor of Delta State,” the statement said.
-Vanguard.

DELTA 2015: WHAT A MAN CAN DO WOMAN CAN DO IT BETTER- OLEJEME *** Say she respect the men but when the chips are down, they will support her

Chairman, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Dr. Ngozi Olejeme weekend declared that she would break the jinx and emerge as the first elected female governor in Nigeria.

Addressing party faithful, community leaders, youths and women in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, Olejeme said her governorship ambition was virtually signed, sealed and delivered.

Promising to alter the political arithmetic in the state, Olejeme said “I am prepared for the 2015 governorship race. God has programmed a woman to occupy the Delta State governorship seat in 2015. It is a mandate from God. He is going to put a woman on that seat come May 29, 2015. He will stop at nothing to ensure that I win the primaries and the 2015 governorship election."

Stressing that what a man can do, a woman can do better, Olejeme said at the critical moment, other aspirants would support her.

“No shaking. Other aspirants are my brothers. I respect the men but when the chips are down, they will support me."

What remained, according to the NSITF boss was her inauguration.

Olejeme who also reflected on the roads taken, the paths not explored, what need to be done and her place in the road ahead, promised to manage the wealth of the state efficiently.

“We will end this journey in victory in 2015. We will add value to the state. We will make Delta State better. We will provide sound education, basic health care facilities, potable drinking water, efficient transport, urban and rural connection facilities and other basic services” she promised.

Armed with the right statistics and information on the needs of the people, Olejeme reaffirmed her stance to ensure that numerous Deltans are employed.”

Olejeme who was in Delta Central to map out strategies for the forthcoming elections met with PDP stakeholders from Delta Central political zone and You and I coordinators in the 25 local government areas.

2015: DELTANS WILL NOT VOTE FOR ORUBEBE- E.K CLARK ***As Obuh Seeks Blessings ***Seven Chiefs from Dein's Royal Palace Accomplained Him

Ijaw National Leader and Elder Statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark has bare fang on Orubebe, saying come 2015 governorship elections, Deltans will not vote for the ex-Niger Delta Minister, Elder Godsday Orubebe but will cast their votes for President Goodluck Jonathan in his re-election bid.

Chief Clark, a former Federal Commissioner made the declaration during a consultative visit by members of Delta United for Tony Chuks Obuh, DUF Thursday September 4 at his country-home in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

While describing Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as a very humble and respectful son, Chief Clark disclosed how he told Orubebe to forget the governorship race and spearhead the re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan, stressing that Elder Orubebe refused to yield to his advice.

He warned that nobody should use his name to endorse any candidate, declaring that the era of imposing candidates on the people are over and will not be tolerated.

Also speaking, the Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Monday Igbuya, who stood-in for Chief Convener of DUF, Chief Ayirimi Emami, told Chief Clark that they came to introduce their Principal, Tony Obuh to him, adding that the Dein of Agbor sent seven Chiefs to represent him as a sign of his solidarity.

In a remark, the PDP governorship hopeful, Mr. Tony Obuh described Chief E.K. Clark as a man of history in Nigeria and advocate of one Nigeria.

Mr. Obuh, a Seasoned Civil Servant, said that he “has seen governance to know what is good and bad after serving in Delta State Civil Service” and that his decision to resign from the State Civil Service as Permanent Secretary was not due to pressure or advice from anybody.

2015: ''ORACLE'' SPITS FIRE , TACKLES UPU ON UDUAGHAN'S SUCCESSOR.


Basking on the recent ''vote of confidence'' passed on him and the state governor by President Jonathan, the Delta State Chairman of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, our own born, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi,popularly called ''The Oracle'' yesterday decided to put on his gloves to take on the intimidating UPU by cautioning the Urhobo apex body about making inflammatory statements.

Nwaoboshi was reacting to a recent statement credited to the Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, who claimed that they hold the ace in deciding the fate of the next governor of the state because of their population advantage.

Reacting to the statement made by the national publicity secretary of UPU, Chief Mike Okenini , Nwaoboshi said that such inflammatory statements were capable of over heating the polity and cautioned that no tribe or ethnic group should hold the state to ransom in the quest to produce the next governor.

WE HAVE CURE FOR EBOLA.....Delta Traditional healers.

The panic over Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) ravaging part of West Africa and giving Nigerians sleepless nights may have got a cure if the claims by traditional healers under the aegis of the Otu Odozi Elu Doctors Association in Akumazi, Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, is anything to go by.
The traditional doctors numbering over 300 urged Nigerians not to panic but to bring to them any report cases of the disease, which they called isamisan disease to them.
The group led by the Okairoro of Akumazi, Chief Moses Dibie, said isamisan disease is an age long tropical disease which existed before the coming of the white people to African, adding that it the disease is older than yaws which the World Health Organisation (WHO) fought and defeated.

DELTA 2015: ANOTHER ASPIRANT, HON ELUMELU CRAWLS ON HIS KNEELS

Hon. Elumelu Kneeling befor chief Lori-Ogbebor
First it was the immediate past minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Peter Orubebe who went far away in the United Kingdom kneeling and crawling before Delta State immediate past governor, Chief James Ibori all in the bid to solicit for his support for the 2015 governorship race.
When Delta Decides published it, Orubebe's media team called us all sort of names.
Though the team acknowledged that their boss actually visited the ex-Governor to.solicit for his support but insisted that he did not crawl on his kneels as we reported.
When they got wind that DD is in possession of the video and ticket number, this team shelded away as we promised that the video and the ticket number would be released soon.

2015: UDUAGHAN UNDER SEVERE PRESSURE TO PICK EMETULU AS HIS SUCCESSOR.

Charles Emetulu
The political atmosphere in the state is cooking at a very high tensity with the proponents of power shift almost having their way.

Barring any further ''maradonic'' adventures from Uduaghan , information filtering in to AV-News, Kwale has it that based on the meeting of the Urhobo stakeholders in the PDP held in Mosogar and after due consultation with some Urhobo governorship aspirants, the Urhobo leaders have settled to support the Anioma governorship agenda ,though not without a condition attached.
Gov. Uduaghan

It is the condition attached to their decision to support an Anioma born governor that is about to further tear the PDP apart. Our source revealed that the leaders and elders of Delta Central led by Chief Amori Ighoyhota are mounting pressure on Gov Uduaghan to name Hon Charles Emetulu, the state commissioner for power and energy as his successor.

DELTA 2015: UDUAGHAN CAUTIONS AGAINST CAMPAIGN BASED ON BLACKMAIL

The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan, CON, broke his silence on his successor with a charge on all aspirants for the gubernatorial election in the state to sell their programmes and policies to the people rather than scheming on how to disqualify fellow aspirants.

Governor Uduaghan who has been evasive on his likely successor noted that neither he nor any level of scheming could determine the candidate that would take over from him in 2015 but that the final choice rested in the hands of God.

Dr. Uduaghan spoke at an Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter's (Anglican Communion), Asaba to mark the 23rd anniversary of the creation of Delta State on Wednesday.

He cautioned aspirants to "stop running around trying to disqualify anybody because who God wants to give power, that He will give, whether you disqualify somebody at the screening stage and God wants that person, the person will succeed."

The Governor recalled that in the build up to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries in 2006, he was disqualified by a screening committee in Port Harcourt before an appeal panel cleared him to contest the polls.

"As an aspirant who wants to take over from me, tell the people what you want to do, let us have a clean electioneering campaign. Who God wants, He will put in office," Dr Uduaghan said, stressing, "let the campaign not be about me, about whom I am supporting or who I am not supporting, let the campaign be about what you can do for the people."

He added, "I want to thank everybody that have indicated interest to take over from me in 2015, it is not easy to make up one's mind to contest but, know that there is only a space for one person at a time for four years."

Governor Uduaghan said that Delta State has cause to thank God on the occasion of the 23rd anniversary of the state creation in view of the giant strides that have been recorded by successive administrations in the state.

According to him, the decision to mark the occasion with a thanksgiving service was to acknowledge God’s mercies and goodness towards the Government and people of the state and a means of securing more favour from the creator.

The Governor said the state has recorded successes and used the occasion to declare August 27 as Thanksgiving Day for Delta State.

Governor Uduaghan who pronounced August 27 every year as a Day of Thanksgiving indicated that a bill would be sent to the House of Assembly to formally proclaim the day and urged the Speaker and members of the State Assembly to give the bill expeditious consideration.

He explained that his administration's Delta Beyond Oil Programme was a legacy that would stand the test of time because it involved going back to economic activities that the people were engaged in before the discovery of oil.

"We must go back to those things we used to do before oil was discovered, agriculture, mining, tourism, manufacturing, and others," he added.

Dr Uduaghan attributed the peace, stability and development in the state to concerted and sustained prayers and called on the people to be more united and shun bitterness towards their neighbours.

"What we need now is unity, we must remove every bitterness from our body, there is so much bitterness and such bitterness can lead to ethnic strife and security challenges," the Governor observed, emphasizing that there is need for change of heart.

The Governor also commended traditional rulers in the state who have renounced fetish practices to embrace God and appealed to the few traditional rulers who are yet to embrace Christianity to do so stating: "When a traditional ruler suppresses God's activities, that Kingdom cannot grow."