Speakership: Okpe leaders insist on Igbuya
Okpe political leaders Tuesday recognized the contributions of the Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly,
Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya to the progress of the kingdom, describing him as a distinguished politician and patriot.
Igbuya, who is also the national vice-chairman of Urhobo Political Forum, UPF, was re-elected on the platform of the
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The leaders who spoke in Sapele stated that Igbuya deserved to be the next Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly
because of his sterling performance, experience and integrity
Citing him for honesty, diligence and loyalty, the leaders praised him for upholding the tenets of good governance and
championing the cause of Okpe people.
Rising from an emergency meeting Tuesday, the Okpe Patriotic Front (OPF), an umbrella organization of politicians from
different political parties in the kingdom said “the only person who can truly lead the assembly in the spirit of one
Delta is Igbuya, considering his wealth of experience and performance”.
“The leadership slot must be for the best and simply the best. Delta State House of Assembly under Igbuya’s
administration will be one truly based on the rule of law, accountability and transparency” the leaders said.
Calling Igbuya "a determined champion of progressive values, and a constant voice for tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness
and dignity, the leaders said in a statement signed by OPF chairman, Mr. Alex Ayomanor “Igbuya will do more in a way
that will bring total transformation to our people and the state”
“Igbuya served Sapele people with distinction. He is forthright, honest and meek in attitude. He understands issues of
both economic and social political weights. He is also fired by the urge to put his best in everything he does” the
statement added.
The Okpe Patriotic Front (OPF) is a group formed by political heavyweights in Okpe kingdom to pursue and project all
legitimate interests of the Okpe nation. It is also to preserve, protect and promote cultural heritage of the Okpe
nation.
The 29-member-house of the Delta State House of Assembly is expected to be inaugurated by the Governor-elect of Delta
State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa in the first week of June.
Similarly, Delta Central leaders on Sunday peeped into the emerging political scenario in the state, extoling the
virtues of Delta State House of Assembly Majority Leader, Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya.
They also described him as an asset to the state.
The leaders who gathered in Mosogar, Ethiope West Local Government Area to chart the way forward for the Urhobo nation
noted that the lawmaker made invaluable contributions to the growth of democracy and good governance in the state.
A press spokesman for the leaders, Raymond Akpojaro said the leaders resolved to pursue unity among the people of the
state.
The leaders who also lauded Igbuya for his integrity, empowerment of the youths in Delta Central and his redefinition of
Sapele politics said there were no doubts as to whether Sapele would produce the next Speaker of the state assembly.
“Among the contenders for Delta State Speaker’s position, Igbuya stands out. He has the contemplative demeanour of the
kind of a man who can lead the House. He understands the workings of the Assembly and the needs of the state and the
people. He is a ranking member of the House and the most appropriate person for this position.” the leaders said.
Continuing, the leaders said "Igbuya knows a lot about government, a lot about politics, and a lot about how to get
things done. He is the perfect example for those who go into politics for principle, who serve selflessly, and who are
prepared to do what they think is right."
The meeting, under the aegis of the Delta Central Political and Non-Political Forum (DCPANP) also provided an
opportunity for the leaders to review the zone’s past and draw a roadmap for the future. It was attended by prominent
citizens of the zone.
Known for taking bold initiatives, Igbuya who is returning to the House for the third time won the Sapele Constituency
seat in the April 11 House of Assembly elections.
By Njamanze Fidel
ENDS