Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has been rumoured in the past weeks to nurse ambition to contest the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Delta North senatorial race, a ticket Prince Ned Nwoko, prominent business magnet and lawyer also seek ahead of 2023.
Okowa’s Principal Secretary, Hilary Ibegbulem, is said to have bought the PDP nomination and expression of interest forms on behalf of his boss, a move Ned Nwoko had taken ,setting the stage for a keen contest.
Contrary to wild speculations, the rumour turned out to be false.
Impeccable sources have revealed that the governor was never in the race with his eyes focused on higher political office, preferably president or Vice President,given his impressive profile and national visibility.
Those familiar with the matter informed that Nwoko had earlier met with Okowa who expressly told him that he would not run for senate and gave his blessings.
The governor’s green light according to sources,derived from Nwoko’s commitment to PDP and his supportive role in the emergence of Okowa as governor.
The billionaire philanthropist from Idumuje Ugboko in Aniocha North local government area, was said to have endeared himself to the hearts of party stakeholders led by Okowa, with his resolve to stay in PDP since the 2018 Delta North senatorial primaries, where Chief Peter Nwaoboshi was declared winner in controversial circumstances, dogged by alleged ballot manipulation.
Nwoko had remained in PDP while Nwaoboshi, reportedly aided to emerge senator, dumped the party for the All Progressives Congress (APC) about two years after, a step considered disappointing among PDP leaders in the state.
One Paul Osaji who hailed from Ute Ogbeje in Ika North east local government area is said to have obtained the 2023 PDP Delta North senatorial forms few hours to the initial April 14 closing date for submission, in a twist of intrigue.
Speaking on the development ,the leadership of Ned Nwoko campaign team described Osaji’s entry into the race as a mischievous Political undertaking, sponsored by those jittery and envious of Nwoko’s clout.
According to the group, ”Osaji who is resident in Obior,Aniocha North usurped the slot of the local government area when he was appointed commissioner for works in 2009.
“Again,for senate seat , his bid will not stand.PDP needs a strong candidate like Prince Ned Nwoko who would match and outrun Nwaoboshi and APC in every way possible especially financial muscle and public goodwill”
The group which had in the past few weeks transversed Delta North consulting key political leaders, on Nwoko’s ambition said Osaji was no match to the former House of Representatives member having proved a formidable political figure with charisma and popularity.
