HURIWA faults Delta gov’s stance on Okpai IPP, seeks support for Nwoko

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has decried the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for denying discussions with Senator Ned Nwoko regarding the Okpai Independent Power Project (IPP).

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday in Abuja, the group’s national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the governor’s statement as a deliberate attempt to undermine the senator’s commitment to the development of Delta North, particularly the Okpai IPP, which holds significant potential to transform the region’s electricity supply and economic landscape.

The controversy arose after the governor claimed in a recent statement that Senator Nwoko had not discussed the Okpai IPP with him, alleging that their only meeting centered on the senator seeking appointments for constituents.

The assertion contradicts Senator Nwoko’s ongoing advocacy for the Okpai power step-down project, aimed at distributing 100 megawatts of power from the plant to Delta North communities.
Senator Nwoko has persistently engaged stakeholders, including the Minister of Power and the Transmission Company of Nigeria, to ensure the realisation of the project.

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HURIWA noted that the senator’s efforts represent a broader commitment to the equitable development of Delta North, which has long suffered from neglect despite its contributions to the state’s economy.
The association expressed disappointment over the governor’s reluctance to collaborate on such a critical project, emphasising that while the Okpai IPP is a federal initiative, state-level support is indispensable for its implementation.

He said, “Senator Nwoko’s remarkable performance in the Senate, particularly his legislative achievements, has been widely acknowledged. Within two years, he has sponsored 25 bills and moved 19 motions, surpassing many of his contemporaries in the 10th Senate. His contributions include the Data Protection Bill and motions addressing environmental hazards and flooding. Senator Nwoko’s advocacy for establishing a National Social Security Agency to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs has even prompted President Bola Tinubu to propose an executive bill aligned with the senator’s vision.

“In addition to his legislative impact, Senator Nwoko has initiated numerous community development projects, including scholarships, solar street lights, boreholes, and free medical outreach programs. He has also established Africa’s first Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko, creating educational and economic opportunities for the region. His push for the creation of Anioma State further underscores his commitment to addressing the systemic marginalisation of Delta North.

“It must be recalled that the quest for Anioma State started by Dennis Osadebe over 50 years ago. Osadebe was governor of Midwest State in the First Republic.”

HURIWA faulted the governor for failing to champion such transformative initiatives, instead choosing to downplay the senator’s achievements.

The association argued that the governor’s stance on the Okpai IPP and his alleged efforts to alienate Senator Nwoko from his constituents reflect a lack of appreciation for the senator’s contributions.

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They noted that the governor’s claim of financial constraints due to debt repayments from the previous administration does not excuse the absence of state-level action to support critical projects like the Okpai IPP and the Ogwashi-Uku Dam.

The association also condemned what it described as politically motivated attempts to undermine Senator Nwoko, particularly in light of his advocacy for Anioma State.

HURIWA alleged that opposition to the state creation initiative, even from within Delta North, is driven by fears of losing political control rather than genuine concerns for the region’s development.

“Senator Nwoko’s push for Anioma State is rooted in the aspirations of Delta North communities for justice and equity, making the resistance to his efforts both shortsighted and detrimental to the region’s progress.

“The push for Anioma State is not just a political ambition; it is a movement rooted in justice and equity. Senator Nwoko’s leadership in this regard reflects the aspirations of Delta North communities and deserves state-wide support,” HURIWA noted.

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HURIWA called on the Delta governor to retract his statement and issue a public apology to Senator Nwoko.
The association urged the state government to prioritise collaboration with the senator to advance development projects critical to Delta North.
It further appealed to President Tinubu and other federal stakeholders to support Senator Nwoko’s initiatives, ensuring that his legislative and developmental efforts achieve their full potential.

The association concluded by praising Senator Nwoko’s visionary leadership, describing him as a beacon of hope for Delta North and a model of effective representation in Nigeria’s legislative landscape.
They called on all stakeholders to rally behind the senator’s initiatives, emphasising that a collaborative approach is essential for addressing the challenges facing Delta North and realizing its developmental aspirations.