Dr. Hilary Ibegbulem has defended the political legacy of former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, while countering claims reportedly made by former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei.
In a statement titled "Response to a Purported Interview Attributed to Victor Ochei," Ibegbulem said he had not independently verified the authenticity of the interview but noted that if the views credited to Ochei were indeed accurate, certain facts needed to be presented to the public for clarity and balance.
He challenged Ochei's reported assertion that his political actions had never been driven by personal ambition, recalling that in 2014, Ochei was allegedly encouraged to contest the Delta North Senatorial seat while supporting Okowa's governorship aspiration. According to Ibegbulem, Ochei declined the offer and instead contested the governorship primary against Okowa.
He noted that after losing the primary election, Ochei left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and contested the Delta North Senate seat on the platform of the Accord Party, where he was defeated by the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.
According to Ibegbulem, Ochei won only his local government area during the election, a development he said raised legitimate questions about whether his political decisions were motivated by collective interest or personal ambition.
Responding to reports that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had attempted to persuade Ochei not to contest against Okowa, Ibegbulem argued that such intervention should not be interpreted as recognition of Ochei's electoral strength. Rather, he said it reflected the widespread belief in Okowa's experience, leadership credentials and suitability to represent Delta North in the Senate.
The former governor's ally also highlighted Okowa's extensive public service record, describing him as one of Delta State's most accomplished political leaders. He cited Okowa's service as Executive Chairman of Ika North East Local Government Area, Commissioner in several ministries, Secretary to the State Government, Governor of Delta State for eight years and a prominent national political figure.
Ibegbulem further dismissed allegations that Okowa was promoting family interests through elective positions, insisting that the former governor does not have any in-law contesting for office in Delta North Senatorial District or Ika Federal Constituency.
He specifically addressed references to Mr. Emmanuel Osazuwa, the APC candidate for the Ika Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat in the 2027 elections, stating that neither Osazuwa nor his wife has any familial relationship with Okowa.
According to him, attempts to portray Osazuwa's aspiration as an extension of Okowa's family interests were inaccurate and misleading.
Ibegbulem also rejected claims that Okowa had abandoned those who contributed to his political rise, maintaining that many of the former governor's long-standing associates still enjoy cordial relationships with him.
He argued that Okowa's continued influence across Delta State was evidence of the goodwill, loyalty and political support he has cultivated over decades of public service.
The statement further urged political actors to subject themselves to the same standards they apply to others, while stressing that leadership should be assessed on the basis of competence, service and verifiable achievements.
According to Ibegbulem, Okowa's political journey was built on hard work, discipline, professional excellence and years of dedicated service rather than privilege.
He concluded that as political discussions ahead of the 2027 elections intensify, the key consideration should be who possesses the experience, capacity, network and track record to effectively represent the interests of Delta North.
On that score, he said, Senator Okowa's record remains a compelling testament to his leadership and contributions to the development of Delta State and the nation.
