By Jim Derek
A recent opinion piece by political commentator Basil Okoh has sparked strong reactions across Delta State’s political landscape, with many describing his comments as an attempt to discredit Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration despite visible achievements recorded under his watch.
Observers say Basil Okoh, known for his outspoken political writings, has a long-standing history of criticizing the immediate past governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, and anyone politically aligned with him. The latest of such writings, titled “Doubts at the Banquet Hall Asaba,” reportedly questions the growing alignment and cooperation between key leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under Governor Oborevwori’s inclusive leadership style.
Political analysts trace Okoh’s grievances to the 2014 governorship primaries in Delta State, when his preferred aspirant, the late Tony Obuh, stepped down from the race. Since then, Okoh is said to have maintained a critical stance toward Okowa and his political allies.
Meanwhile, sources within Delta political circles have alleged that Okoh and some associates are considering joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, possibly as a new political base. However, insiders suggest that such moves may not significantly alter the state’s current political dynamics.
At the recent Delta APC Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the State Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, political heavyweights across party lines gathered to reaffirm their support for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The event reportedly witnessed a large turnout of political leaders, including Senators Ede Dafinone, Thomas Joel-Onowakpo, and Ned Nwoko, among others.
Other notable attendees included the immediate past governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN; Delta APC Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie; founding leader of the party, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor; former National Woman Leader, Hon. Stella Okotete; Senator Ighoyota Amori; as well as past and serving members of both state and national assemblies.
Although Senator Ovie Omo-Agege was absent from the meeting, political observers have dismissed speculations of any major rift, noting that the senator remains a key stakeholder in Delta’s political evolution.
Governor Oborevwori, who has so far executed numerous infrastructural and socio-economic development projects across the state, continues to receive commendations from stakeholders for his prudent management of state resources and commitment to inclusive governance. His administration’s achievements, according to many, have positioned him strongly for re-election in 2027.
Political watchers believe that with the level of unity currently being fostered among Delta’s political leaders and the widespread support for both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, the governor’s path to a second term appears promising.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, Governor Oborevwori’s camp maintains confidence that his record of performance and broad-based alliances across party lines will ensure a smooth and decisive victory at the polls.