Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, his counterpart in Bayelsa State, Alaowei Seriake Dickson and former Governor James Ibori have expressed their commitment to the development of the South South region.

They spoke on Saturday during the conferment of chieftaincy titles on Governor Dickson and Chief Ibori by the Pere of Kabowei Kingdom in Patani Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Erebelu Shedrack, Aduwo III.

“Our voice as a people will never be drowned, as a people, we will continue to take the pride of place in this nation, we will speak strongly for our people, we should ensure that our votes are in the direction where our people will be respected and our voice will be heard,” Governor Okowa said. “I believe that the way we are moving, we will never get it wrong for our people,” he added.

Okowa, who commended the Pere for the titles, described Governor Dickson and Chief Ibori as two great sons of the Niger Delta region.

“It only takes a wise man to make the wise choice of recognising these great men because, they are bold, strong, courageous and good advocates of our people,” he added.

Governor Dickson, in a brief speech, said: “Governors from our region are bold and holds Chief Ibori in high esteem, I am aware Governor Okowa is doing very well and we will continue to speak with one voice in the region.”

Chief Ibori had thanked the Pere for the titles, assuring that they will not let Kabowei Kingdom down in their interest and progress of the region.

“I am very interested in what goes on and we will continue to watch what goes on in the region, any referendum will be based on the interest of the region,” said Ibori. He lauded the developmental strides of Chief Dickson and Senator Okowa in repositioning the socio-economic life of the people.

The Pere in his speech stated: “A man who has done very well will be celebrated by his friends and we are proud of Governor Dickson and former Governor James Ibori.”

Governor Dickson was conferred with Izonopute (Rock) Chieftaincy title while Chief Ibori bagged Tiemwei (Pillar) at the occasion which was attended by personalities from different parts of the country.

•Photo shows, from left; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; former Governor of Delta, Chief James Ibori; Governor of Bayelsa, Seriake Dickson; the Pere of Kabowei Kingdom (Bayelsa and Delta State and his wife, at the event.

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