Okowa Versus Anioma: An Anthology Of Gratitude

Barely 60 days to go….

By Norbert Chiazor

Opposition politicians may be heavy -hearted over Dr.Ifeanyi Okowa’s Hat-trick. He took power by storm in 2015, bounced back in 2019 and birthed a successor, 2023. Hits like “The Harder They Come “ (Jimmy Cliff).

Those familiar with the story of Delta and its razor-sharp schism would appreciate better the mountainous race,soaring Okowa to Eagle flight. Whether in Anioma world view or cumulative vision of Niger -Delta most prominent state, his allegory is brilliant.

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When history smiled on him 8 years ago, governorship on his lucky palms was first a glorious balm of unity for all Deltans.Then and more profoundly, a strong seal of approval for Delta North, after a long walk towards validation of self identity.

While the man in the mirror had made efforts to also put shine in all quarters across the state, he never disappointed Anioma. Asaba as capital is painted, pampered like Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” with the finest secretariat in southern Nigeria, best of Nollywood film village, remodeled international Airport, specialist hospital, scenic schools, roads and roads decorated with mega drainages among other amenities pleasant to the eyes.

A special town wrapped in peace and tranquility,commodities so scarce in Africa’s most populous bowel of violence. Okowa ‘s Asaba is Nigeria’s new haven, as strangers – East, West ,North and South- relocate in droves, home away to a happy home.

For Anioma satellite settlements, there is Okowa cascade effect.From my village Idumuje -unor to Idumuesah, Aboh to Akumazi ,Okpanam to Okpai, Obomkpa to Obinomba , Isheagu to Ashaka, Ebu to Emuhu, Ubulu-Uku to Beneku,…. he has touched the hearts of Anioma people. His Owa -Alero homestead is ornamented in eye -popping elegance. He did not create Agbor,but he made it a university town,transformed forever. Across Delta North, the performance may differ in intensity, but the stamp of his footsteps,no matter how subtle is deepened indelible.Undeniable.

Take it and trend . Those crying know Okowa tried!

The Okowa/Anioma experience yields interesting correlation between sonship and fatherhood.

Anioma indigenes never at any time failed to queue behind their own.Always wooing Okowa’s winning ways, they supported him to win all nine Delta North local government areas in 2015 Governorship elections and repeated the rally in 2019. They stretched hands of togetherness to other parts of Delta embracing one love.

The outing in 2023 particularly dismantled myths,reconstructing revisionist narratives, setting new meanings. Sheriff Oborevwori,Okowa’s humble and happy ally was elected governor.But that is not the main news! He got the highest votes in Delta North, polling 160,453. Delta central predominantly Urhobo, 100, 089 and then Delta South ( Itsekiri,Izon and Isoko) 99,685.

Out of the 25 local government areas in the state, the PDP Governor -elect also got the most votes in 3 Delta North LGAs,first in Oshimili North 35,966, 2nd Ika North East , 26,76 and 3rd, Oshimili South ,23,149.

Anioma came total, through thick and thin.Solid solidarity behind Okowa,boundless brotherhood for Sheriff and unification for multi ethnic Delta.

Little mischief may chip in February 25 and Delta but ponder pretty to perish your point.The emotionalism of Peter Obi was a national mood and not the failure of Okowa. Buhari lost in Katsina.Tinubu lost in Lagos. ELLU- P!

Since 2015, Anioma beheld Okowa.He beheld Anioma.Solid symbiosis.Spectacular symbolism.Both ways,his gubernatorial journey is laden with gratitude. Great grace. He is returning home among his Anioma kit and kin to thanksgiving. Also,Sheriff is coming in praises… Why not? In Urhobo,nay Delta central and far afield, his name echoes “ Ukodo” a source of sauce for all Deltans. Full measure of inclusiveness laid on the table of Deltans by the out-going and in-coming governor. A win – win scenario. The manna of M.O.R.E.

And now pardon the cynic to pine.But let the merry have their mirthful say- Anioma, Delta bask on the eve of Okowa’s power apogee.

Moral of the tale : Wherever you go, always remember the road that leads you home.

This song…. just a curtain raiser.

The send forth…

The epiphany of Ekwueme .

Watch out for more thrills and spills .