- Nwaoboshi, “Oracle of Delta North Politics” Thightens Grip
- Okowa Tips Youthful Aide to Run for Senate on PDP ticket
By Abiola Olawale
Senator Ned Nwoko, a lawmaker representing the Delta North Senatorial District of Delta State in the Senate, has officially announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) triggering political permutations.
The Distinguished Senator Nwoko made this decision known in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the PDP in Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, his home state.
In the letter, Nwoko explained that his decision to leave the PDP was because of the deep divisions and factionalization within the party.
However, findings show that this development is coming against the backdrop of intense internal political battle, intrigues, and high-level tussles between forces loyal to the immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and those in full support of Senator Nwoko, with the former triumphing over the later.
Said an insider: ” Senator Okowa has seized the entire political structure of PDP in Delta North, sadly shutting out distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko. From ward level, to Senatorial level in Delta North,the entire structure is in the hands and pocket of Dr Okowa. So Ned Nwoko has to weigh the options because Okowa is plotting to likely back his political godson, Hilary, effectively closing the door against any contender on the PDP.”
The political source, a former House of Reps member from Delta North, added: ” The political situation is precarious, like walking tight rope. Even in the APC, it is not clear, how things will shape out. Distinguished Peter Nwaoboshi is known as the Oracle of Delta North politics. He holds tight and effectively controls the entire political structure of Delta North, with the exception of one LGA, Aniocha North. Will Nwoaboshi, the political oracle, welcome Nwoko to Delta North APC? That is another dynamics that politicians in the state are watching….Nwaoboshi is the only one in Delta North that can fight Okowa to standstill. He did it before severally. If Nwaoboshi okays the move, then that is the end of Okowa in the senatorial contest.”
While Nwoko is yet to disclose the next political party he will join, there have been growing speculations that the lawmaker might join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senator Nwoko’s letter reads in part: “I write to formally resign my membership from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a party I have proudly served as a foundation member since 1999.
“My decision to resign is due to the deep divisions and factionalization within the party. These divisions have made it increasingly difficult to unite and pursue the collective interests of our people.
“Just this week, on the 29th of January, top party functionaries descended to the lowest levels by physically fighting among themselves due to these irreconcilable factions.
“I am also grateful for the platform the PDP provided me to contest the 2022/2023 senatorial election, which allowed me to directly engage with the people of my constituency and present my vision for a brighter future.
“However, during my campaign, I made solemn and actionable promises to my constituents—commitments I take seriously as a servant of the people.
“Unfortunately, the current structure of the party in our state has not been conducive to fulfilling these promises. After careful consideration, I have concluded that stepping away from the party is necessary to honour my obligations to my people.
“While I bid farewell to my membership in the PDP, I assure all party members and my constituents of my unwavering dedication to statesmanship, unity, and the advancement of Delta North.
“My decision is rooted in the best interest of those I serve, and I remain committed to the progress and prosperity of our state and nation.”