In the unfolding political landscape of Delta State, even the participation of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as one of the APC Senatorial Aspirants during the Delta North Senatorial primary seat raises serious questions about institutional integrity, accountability, and the future direction of our state.
The EFCC and the APC have fallen short in their responsibilities by clearing the path for a figure still burdened by unresolved allegations of massive fund mismanagement during his tenure, particularly concerning the 13% derivation funds running into hundreds of billions.
This move not only undermines public trust but signals a troubling tolerance for elite recycling over fresh, results-oriented leadership.
I see the current situation in Delta State as a clear test of whether our people will continue tolerating business-as-usual or finally demand accountable, results-driven leadership.
The APC and EFCC have failed Delta people by allowing former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to even enters party’s senatorial candidacy primary election despite serious, unresolved questions about his stewardship of state resources.
Okowa’s participatory reeks of elite protection and godfatherism. After years in power, he faces ongoing EFCC scrutiny over the management of massive 13% derivation funds—billions upon billions that should have transformed Delta but left many asking: where did the money go?
Instead of full clearance and accountability, we see political maneuvering, defections to APC, and a primaries process widely criticized as manipulated to favor the establishment candidate.
Delta people are weary of this parasitic cycle. We are tired of leaders who treat public office as a lifetime entitlement rather than a call to service.
Senator Ned Nwoko stands in sharp contrast. He is delivering visible, innovative developments across Delta North and the state.
From education scholarships and school projects, health outreaches, youth empowerment programs, to legislative pushes for infrastructure and even bold advocacy for Anioma State creation, Nwoko is working.
He has no dent of corruption baggage dragging him down. While others recycle old mandates without tangible legacies they can proudly point to, Nwoko is building one through consistent constituency service and strategic interventions.
The current Delta governor’s preference for Okowa is understandable on a personal level—after all, Okowa installed him and shapes the machine. Influences like opposition to Anioma (tied to certain ethnic calculations) may also play a role. But the people of Delta North and the state at large are rejecting this imposition.
They see Nwoko as their authentic choice: a leader focused on progress, not perpetuating control or seeking immunity from scrutiny.
Okowa has had his time—two terms as governor, significant influence, and multiple opportunities to create enduring legacies.
Instead of stepping aside to allow fresh energy, he clings to power, reportedly eyeing continued access to public resources and protection.
At this stage, with health considerations and unaccounted mandates, the responsible path is retirement and genuine accountability, not another run under a new party umbrella.
Ned Nwoko is the better option in every meaningful way: cleaner record, proven delivery, innovative vision, and genuine connection to the people’s aspirations. Delta deserves representation that builds rather than extracts.
The APC should have read the room and prioritized integrity over expediency. The EFCC must do its job without fear or favor—true justice would clear the innocent and hold the guilty accountable, not enable political comebacks.
This is the moment for Delta people to reject kleptocratic recycling and back the candidate who is already delivering: Senator Ned Nwoko. The future of our state depends on choosing service over self-interest. The time for change is now.
Pamela O.
Political Analyst and Commentator
