South –South politicians, under the aegis of the Politicians and Political Office Holders in the South-South (PPOHSS) have expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for placing Nigeria on the world map for good, saying he is running a transparent, accountable government and has performed excellently to the envy of his foes.”
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt by the National Chairman of PPOHSS, Chief Julius Ikuru, the leaders also eulogized the national chairman of the All Progressives Party (APC), Chief John Odigie Oyegun for being above board in the discharge of his duties.
They not only praised Oyegun for elevating politics beyond the mundane levels of wrangling, greed and selfishness but commended him for his commitment to principles in the practice of politics, the rule of law and the best democratic tradition of fairness and justice.
The leaders dismissed the allegation of forgery, describing a self-acclaimed APC House of Representatives Candidate, Chief Christopher Anirah and his backers in Delta State as unscrupulous politicians.
“The allegation of forgery is wide off the mark and misconceived. It is also extremely contradictory in a number of areas, thus exposing the high level of ignorance and wickedness of Anirah and his PDP sponsors.
The leaders also lauded the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase for not yielding to calculated lies.
They appealed to journalists to protect Oyegun from undue harassment by self-seeking elements whose stock in trade is to hide under the banner of the media to bring down their imaginary or perceived opponents.
“Leaders at whatever level must demonstrate a certain degree of decency and exemplary conduct. Desperate politicians, those without ideas and popular goodwill are running away from real issues and resorting to character assassination and personal abuse.
The leaders advised APC members in Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency in Delta State to show Anirah the way out of the party.
The leaders who also affirmed their total support to Oyegun on his quest to develop the party in the zone, urged him to keep up the good works, irrespective of the antics of some detractors who peddle false stories about the party. ”
“We have a national chairman with a listening ear. We have a chairman that is committed to the development of the party. We have a chairman that is providing responsible, accountable and transparent leadership to the people. The avenue of peaceful dialogue is still available to members.
“APC is on a mission to change this country. Oyegun is administering the party, with the fear of God and for the good of the people. He believes in merit” the statement said.
The leaders also expressed their condolences to the people of Bayelsa on the death of the immediate past Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Col. Sam Inokoba
“Bayelsa has today lost one of its most motivating leaders. Col. Sam Inokoba was not merely a political leader but a role model and an ideal politician.
“Everything about him was positive. He thought well, he had positive ideas. His contribution as a politician was unparalleled. He has left a void for all of us” the leaders who described the late politician as the people’s chairman said.
In another development, Niger Delta Leaders on Wednesday praised Chief Timipre Sylva, describing him as an astute administrator, a prudent manager of resources and a distinguished politician,
“We have examined all the governorship aspirants in Bayelsa State and it is clear to us that Chief Timipre Sylva is the best. He represents a Bayelsa State that is dedicated to serving the best interests of the people; a Bayelsa State which offers hope to the people; a Bayelsa State where things work. Others aspirants in the APC represent narrow, sectional and divisive tendencies which can threaten the unity, peace and progress of the state” the leaders said after a meeting in Abuja.
Stressing that Sylva is the best governorship aspirant in the state, in terms of performance and commitment to the enlargement and deepening of democracy, the leaders said “he has all it takes to lead the state to success.”
Speaking glowingly on Sylva’s achievements in the state, spokesperson of Niger Delta People Forum (NDPF), Mrs. Ibifuro Thompson Tatua said the leaders praised him for his patriotic and courageous service as well as acknowledged his capacity to undergo painful but often necessary reforms.
“We have observed his leadership style at close range and he really excels. He is in the governorship race to bring peace and development to the state. He will restore the confidence of the people in government. He will also reinvent and locate Bayelsa State on the path of sustained growth”
“The leaders who predicted APC electoral landslide in the December 5, 2015 governorship vote urged APC delegates in the state to make Sylva the party’s touch bearer.
“The next governor must be a person of proven integrity, experience and compassion for the well-being of the people. Sylva is a man of wisdom, dedication and integrity.
“Huge numbers of Bayelsans are living in poverty. Sylva will focus on the real issues facing the people. He will give power back to the poor”
The leaders also commiserated with the family, government and people of Bayelsa State on the death of the immediate Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, Col. Sam Inokoba, describing him as an "an extraordinary man and a change agent.
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of the immediate past Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Bayelsa State, Col. Sam Inokoba.
Recalling his life as that of service, compassion and excellence, the leaders said “We send our heartfelt condolences to the family and the good people of Bayelsa State.”
By Fidel Njamanze
