The 2027 Delta State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru, has said the party is prepared to deliver the dividends of democracy and place Delta State on the path of decency, integrity, accountability, and good governance.
Ogboru made the declaration while addressing supporters and party faithful during a reception held in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State. He said his decision to contest the governorship was driven by his conviction that Delta State could be governed more effectively for the benefit of all citizens.
According to him, successive administrations in the state have failed to address fundamental governance challenges despite years of promises. He maintained that Delta State has the potential for better leadership and more equitable distribution of democratic dividends.
The ADC governorship hopeful stated that, among the political parties currently operating in the state, only the ADC offers genuine hope for meaningful change. He pledged that an ADC-led government would prioritize transparency, responsibility, and people-oriented governance.
Ogboru stressed that leadership should be measured by the positive impact it has on the lives of the people rather than the acquisition of political power. He noted that governance must focus on improving citizens’ welfare and creating opportunities for development.
He attributed the large turnout at the event to what he described as an organic movement of Deltans who are dissatisfied with the status quo. According to him, many residents believe the state can achieve far more than it has over the past two decades, particularly in infrastructure and security.
Speaking on electoral integrity, Ogboru alleged that Delta State has experienced years of electoral malpractice and voter disenfranchisement. He expressed confidence that technological innovations and increased voter awareness would help curb election rigging, vote-buying, and other irregularities in future elections.
The former governorship candidate also dismissed allegations that he had consistently supported successive governments in the state. He pointed to his history of challenging election results in court, including cases pursued to the Supreme Court, as evidence of his independence.
While acknowledging his personal friendship with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Ogboru emphasized that politics should be guided by principles and policies rather than personal relationships. He said political parties exist to seek power for the purpose of improving citizens’ lives.
On development, Ogboru argued that Delta State’s challenge is not a lack of resources but poor management and misplaced priorities.
He advocated greater empowerment of local governments as development centers, insisting that grassroots communities should have more control over resources and decision-making processes.
