Poland-based Nigerian extols Ibori’s leadership qualities, slams Oborevwori, Okowa over defection to APC

Stanley Ihedigbo

Poland-based Nigerian cybersecurity expert and committed member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Christian Onyinye Ijeh, has extolled the sterling leadership qualities of the former Governor of Delta State and a chieftain of the party, Chief James Onanafe Ibori, describing him as a unifier, a stabilizer and a great grassroots mobilizer who is intensely loved across the state and party lines.

Engineer Ijeh who made his views known in a strongly worded press statement expressed optimism that following the recent defections from the party, Chief Ibori will rise to the occasion and rebuild the party. Insisting that Delta remained a PDP, Ijeh said he does not doubt “our leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori’s capacity to bring his wealth of political experience, sterling leadership qualities and political sagacity to bear on our great party as the leader of the party not just in Delta state but also in the South-south”.

Calling for reconciliation and reformation, Engr. Ijeh urged all loyal PDP members in Ika South in particular and Delta State, in general, to rally around the party’s founding father, Chief Ibori, whose legacy of leadership and grassroots development, he said, remains unmatched.

He urged the Delta State PDP executive to immediately pay a courtesy visit to Chief Ibori to reaffirm their loyalty and chart a course for the future of the party.

“Chief Ibori remains a symbol of unity and the cornerstone of PDP’s legacy in Delta State. The state executive must show leadership by reconnecting with our roots. A visit to Chief Ibori is long overdue and necessary for the party’s survival,” Ijeh declared.

He condemned the recent defection to the All Progressives Congress, APC Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, and his immediate predecessor Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, accusing them of greed and self-centeredness. He said that the duo who became governor on the crest of the PDP deceived loyal members of the party across the state into following them to the APC.

Engr. Ijeh expressed deep disappointment in the alleged betrayal, noting that such actions undermine the principles of democracy, party loyalty, and the foundational ideologies of the PDP in Delta State.

“It is disheartening and utterly shameful that leaders we once trusted have chosen to abandon the party and misled others for their selfish ambition. The PDP in Delta State has always been a beacon of hope, development, and unity. To now watch it being manipulated by those who once swore to uphold its values is a great betrayal,” he added.

Engr. Ijeh extended his heartfelt appreciation to the resilient and steadfast members of the PDP—those who have remained loyal to the cause despite the ongoing pressures and political manipulations.

He praised them for their courage and determination to stay the course and called on them to stand even firmer in unity and vision.

“To our strong and faithful members who have refused to be swayed, I say thank you. Your commitment gives us hope. It is time to refocus and rebuild. Let us work together across all wards, local government areas (LGAs), and at the state executive level to reclaim our party’s strength,” he emphasized.

The PDP chieftain also commends Chief James Ibori and Barrister Chiedu Ebie for their contributions to the development of Delta State, particularly their visionary projects and strategic leadership that have positively impacted communities across the state.

Reaffirming his commitment to the PDP, Engr Ijeh called on all members of the party “to stand united, reject betrayal, and uphold the founding vision of the party.

“This is not the time for despair, but a time for action. The PDP remains strong because of its people. Let us rise, unite, and rebuild stronger for the benefit of Delta State and future generations,” he concluded.