A renewed war of words has emerged between former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, over the outcome of the 2023 governorship election in the state. The exchange follows recent remarks by the governor during a public lecture in Lagos.
Speaking at the event titled “Inclusive Governance and National Unity: Lessons from Delta State for a United Nigeria,” Oborevwori reflected on his electoral victory. He attributed his success at the polls to his strong connection with grassroots communities across the state.
The governor stated that his accessibility and engagement with ordinary citizens played a decisive role in the election. He contrasted his performance with that of Omo-Agege, noting that he secured a commanding victory across the majority of local government areas.
According to Oborevwori, he won in 21 local government areas, while Omo-Agege managed victories in only four. He emphasized that his approach to leadership, which he described as people-oriented, gave him a clear advantage.
“I am with the people. I listen to them, I hear them, I call them, they call me,” the governor said while recounting the election outcome.
The remarks drew a response from Omo-Agege, who described the continued public discussion of the election as unnecessary. In a statement reacting to the governor’s comments, he cautioned against revisiting past political contests in a manner that could create division.
Omo-Agege acknowledged that while he might have responded more forcefully if they were still political opponents, the current political alignment between both men calls for restraint. He pointed out that they are now members of the same political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He stressed the importance of unity within the party, especially ahead of future political contests. According to him, the focus should be on strengthening the APC and ensuring electoral success in upcoming elections rather than dwelling on past rivalries.
“The 2023 Governorship Election has come and gone and is now behind us. The Supreme Court has spoken, and its decision is final,” Omo-Agege stated. He reaffirmed his respect for the court’s ruling and reiterated that he had previously congratulated Oborevwori on his victory.
Omo-Agege also referenced the vote margin that secured the governor’s win, noting that Oborevwori polled approximately 360,000 votes. Despite his defeat, he highlighted his own support base, stating that he received over 240,000 votes, particularly dominating in four local government areas in Delta Central.
He expressed appreciation to his supporters and pledged continued service to the people of Delta State. He also emphasized his ongoing efforts since May 29, 2023, to promote unity within the APC.
The former deputy senate president urged the governor, as the leader of the party in the state, to work collaboratively toward reconciliation and inclusion. He called on party members to avoid actions and rhetoric that could deepen divisions.
Omo-Agege further stressed that unity within the APC is critical to achieving broader political goals, including delivering electoral victories for President Bola Tinubu and securing wins across all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
He concluded by encouraging party stakeholders to focus on the future rather than past disagreements. According to him, a united front will be essential for the APC to consolidate its position in Delta State.
The exchange highlights lingering tensions from the 2023 election, even as both figures now operate within the same political platform. It also underscores the challenges of fostering cohesion within a party that has recently absorbed former rivals.
