By Abiola Olawale
A team of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) faithful has rallied support behind the immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, over his Christmas message, wherein he criticized the performance of the current Delta State government.
The group also vehemently criticized the Delta Government for what they describe as a misrepresentation of the words and position of the former Deputy President of the Senate and two-time Senator, representing the good people of Delta Central.
Omo-Agege, who was the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 governorship elections in Delta State, had in his Christmas message, criticised the performance of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, stating that “Delta State continues to face numerous challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, a struggling economy, and underpaid workers.”
He accused the governor of failing to effectively utilise over ₦900 billion receipt so far to mitigate the inevitable pains caused by economic reforms.
“Many communities are left in dire need due to the lack of transparency and accountability in fund allocation,” he added.
However, a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of the state, Chief Festus Ahon, argued that the position of Omo-Agege was not correct, and proceeded to misrepresent the words and statements of the erstwhile deputy Senate President. This misrepresentation has sparked sharp reactions, as many have accused the Delta state government of spinning, and fabricating lies to distort Omo-Agege’s well reasoned, and sound critique of Delta state government.
Consequently, in a counter-reaction, a statement signed by Godwin Anaughe on behalf of the group accused Ahon of sponsoring lies against the former two-term Delta Central lawmaker and APC governorship candidate in 2023 governorship elections.
The statement reads in part: “We strongly condemn the blatant misrepresentation of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege’s Christmas message by Alaowei Okoronwanta, an alias used by Festus Ahon, as a disturbing act of misinformation. Investigations revealed that Festus Ahon, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Delta State, was behind this false narrative. This is particularly concerning, given Ahon’s role as the official spokesman for the Governor.
“Ahon’s attempt to misrepresent Senator Omo-Agege’s Christmas message is an evil or demonic effort to ascribe to Omo-Agege what Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his administration think about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies.
“Senator Omo-Agege’s original message was a call to unity, hope, and support for the federal government’s economic reforms. His message acknowledged Nigeria’s challenges while highlighting the necessity of reforms for long-term growth and prosperity.
“The former Deputy President of the Senate’s message was balanced, thoughtful, and reflective of his commitment to President Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the well-being of Nigerians.
“In contrast, the fabricated story attributed to Alaowei Okoronwanta is a gross misrepresentation of Senator Omo-Agege’s views by the Delta State government.
“Governor Oborevwori’s public declarations of support for President Tinubu’s administration are therefore questionable, considering his aide’s public criticism of the president’s policies. It’s the classic voice of Jacob and the hand of Esau.
“Furthermore, the Delta state government’s sponsorship of misleading stories and propaganda to undermine the Federal Government only adds to the confusion. It’s essential for the government to promote truthful and accurate information, rather than spreading misinformation and propaganda.
“This inconsistency raises serious concerns about the Delta State government’s true stance on the President’s reform agenda and questions not only the governor’s sincerity and character but also underscores the need for clarity on his position regarding federal government policies.
“Governor Oborevwori is only playing political games with the President, as his actions and those of his aides and commissioners do not align with his statements of support. Mere public declarations of support are insufficient; tangible actions and policies must substantiate such assertions. Unfortunately, the Governor’s track record suggests the opposite.
“We urge the public to disregard the misleading story and instead, focus on Senator Omo-Agege’s original message. Furthermore, Festus Ahon and the Delta State government must avoid unethical practices, uphold the truth, and maintain the highest standards of integrity demanded of public office.”
