HEADLINE: Governor Oborevwori, Senator Nwoko Engage in War of Words Over Okpai IPP Project
SUBHEADLINE: Governor’s Aides Accuse Senator of Political Survival Tactics, While Senator’s Supporters Denounce Governor’s Attacks as Ignorant and Sectional
In a heated exchange, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Senator Ned Nwoko have engaged in a war of words over the Okpai Independent Power Project (IPP). The project, which aims to generate 100MW of electricity for local communities, has become a contentious issue in the state, with both parties trading accusations and counter-accusations.
Governor Oborevwori’s aides have accused Senator Nwoko of playing politics and using the project as a means to secure his political survival. They claim that the senator is trying to create a false narrative and incite Anioma people against the governor and former Governor Okowa in preparation for the 2027 senatorial election.
However, Senator Nwoko’s supporters have dismissed the governor’s aides’ claims as ignorant and sectional. They argue that the senator is simply seeking to hold the governor accountable for his actions and ensure that the project benefits the people of Delta North.
The controversy began when Senator Nwoko called for state funding of the Okpai IPP project, arguing that it was essential for the development of his constituency. Governor Oborevwori’s aides responded by accusing the senator of trying to coerce and blackmail the governor into funding the project, which they claimed was a federal project.
In a counter-attack, Senator Nwoko’s supporters accused the governor’s aides of ignorance and sectionalism. They pointed out that the governor had promised to develop Warri and its environs, but had failed to deliver on his promises.
A political and social analyst, Mr. Peter Legacy, said that the controversy was a welcome development, as it highlighted the importance of plurality in politics. He argued that the battle line had been drawn, and it was up to the people to decide who was playing politics and who was being responsive to their needs.
The Okpai IPP project has been a contentious issue in Delta State for several years, with allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The project was designed to generate 480MW of electricity, but it has been plagued by delays and technical issues.
The controversy has sparked a heated debate in the state, with many calling for transparency and accountability in the project’s management. The people of Delta State are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the dispute, and hoping that it will lead to the delivery of the much-needed electricity and development in the state.
