Okowa denies rift with Uduaghan

Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has denied having any rift in his political relationship with Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State.
Okowa, who is aspiring for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state, said at a rally in Asaba on Monday that his relationship with Uduaghan was so smooth that the governor hand over the headship of Delta State to him in May 2015.
Though many had thought Uduaghan would support Okowa’s aspirations, the governor’s alleged support for a retired permanent secretary, Mr. Tony Obuh, for the governorship had raised suspicion about the continued political friendship between Okowa and Uduaghan.
The rally was used by Okowa and his political associates to formally declare his intention to contest the governorship of the state.
Okowa, who represents Delta North in the Senate, amidst applause, re-affirmed his friendship with Uduaghan, and declared that nothing would undermine his relationship with the governor.
He said he was the best person in line today to succeed Uduaghan as governor.
He said, “No matter what you hear, our friendship cannot be wished away. Uduaghan is my friend, he is my mentor, he is my Oga and I believe he is remaining neutral in the selection process of the governorship candidate of the PDP in next year’s election.
“I was the first Director-General of Patrick Osakwe Campaign Organisation for Senator and when he was leaving in 2011, he handed over to me. I was the first Director-General of Emmanuel Uduaghan Campaign Organisation for governor and when it is the time to hand over, he will hand over to me.
“He (Uduaghan) is my mentor, he is my Oga and he knows that I am the best for Delta State. This project is divine and God has approved of it, hence, there is no one that can stop us.”