Okpe political leaders Tuesday recognised the contributions of the Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya, to the progress of the kingdom, describing him as a distinguished politician and patriot.

Igbuya, who is also the national vice-chairman of Urhobo Political Forum (UPF), was re-elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The leaders, who spoke in Sapele stated that Igbuya deserved to be the next Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly because of his sterling performance, experience and integrity

Citing him for honesty, diligence and loyalty, the leaders praised him for upholding the tenets of good governance and championing the cause of Okpe people.

Rising from an emergency meeting, the Okpe Patriotic Front (OPF), an umbrella organisation of politicians from different political parties in the kingdom said “the only person who can truly lead the assembly in the spirit of one Delta is Igbuya, considering his wealth of experience and performance”.

“The leadership slot must be for the best and simply the best. Delta State House of Assembly under Igbuya’s administration will be one truly based on the rule of law, accountability and transparency,” the leaders said.

Calling Igbuya “a determined champion of progressive values, and a constant voice for tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness and dignity,” the leaders said in a statement signed by OPF chairman, Mr. Alex Ayomanor “Igbuya will do more in a way that will bring total transformation to our people and the state.”

“Igbuya served Sapele people with distinction. He is forthright, honest and meek in attitude. He understands issues of both economic and social political weights. He is also fired by the urge to put his best in everything he does,” the statement added.

The Okpe Patriotic Front (OPF) is a group formed by political heavyweights in Okpe kingdom to pursue and project all legitimate interests of the Okpe nation. It is also to preserve, protect and promote cultural heritage of the Okpe nation.

The 29-member-house of the Delta State House of Assembly is expected to be inaugurated by the Governor-elect of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa in the first week of June.

Similarly, Delta Central leaders on Sunday peeped into the emerging political scenario in the state, extolling the virtues of Delta State House of Assembly Majority Leader, Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya. They also described him as an asset to the state.

The leaders who gathered in Mosogar, Ethiope West Local Government Area to chart the way forward for the Urhobo nation noted that the lawmaker made invaluable contributions to the growth of democracy and good governance in the state.

A press spokesman for the leaders, Raymond Akpojaro said the leaders resolved to pursue unity among the people of the state.

The leaders who also lauded Igbuya for his integrity, empowerment of the youths in Delta Central and his redefinition of Sapele politics said there were no doubts as to whether Sapele would produce the next Speaker of the state assembly.

“Among the contenders for Delta State Speaker’s position, Igbuya stands out. He has the contemplative demeanour of the kind of a man who can lead the House. He understands the workings of the Assembly and the needs of the state and the people. He is a ranking member of the House and the most appropriate person for this position.” the leaders said.

Continuing, the leaders said "Igbuya knows a lot about government, a lot about politics, and a lot about how to get things done. He is the perfect example for those who go into politics for principle, who serve selflessly, and who are prepared to do what they think is right."

The meeting, under the aegis of the Delta Central Political and Non-Political Forum (DCPANP) also provided an opportunity for the leaders to review the zone’s past and draw a roadmap for the future. It was attended by prominent citizens of the zone.

Known for taking bold initiatives, Igbuya who is returning to the House for the third time won the Sapele Constituency seat in the April 11 House of Assembly elections.

•Photo shows Igbuya

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