Why Ogboru Hasn’t Given Up Governorship Quest, Says Delta ADC Spokesman

By Philip James

The Delta State Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Fred Akpewe, has explained why the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru, has remained steadfast in his pursuit of the governorship of Delta State despite previous unsuccessful attempts.

Akpewe, while speaking to journalists, said history often remembers leaders who refuse to surrender in the face of repeated setbacks, describing Ogboru as one of the most resilient politicians in Delta State’s democratic journey.

According to him, Ogboru has remained a dominant figure in the state’s opposition politics for more than two decades, contesting successive governorship elections on different political platforms while maintaining a loyal support base across Delta North, Delta Central and Delta South senatorial districts.

He noted that Ogboru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate for the 2027 election further demonstrates his determination to continue pursuing what he believes is his political calling and commitment to the people of Delta State.

Akpewe said that while critics may view Ogboru’s repeated governorship bids as persistence without reward, his supporters see them as evidence of resilience, conviction and an unwavering belief that the state deserves a credible alternative to the existing political order.

Drawing comparisons with notable political leaders, the ADC spokesman recalled that former United States President Abraham Lincoln lost several elections before eventually attaining the presidency, while former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari unsuccessfully contested the presidency three times before winning in 2015.

He stated that Ogboru’s refusal to abandon his ambition reflects his belief that political success is a marathon rather than a sprint, adding that the businessman-turned-politician remains convinced that only the electorate can decide when his political journey should end.

Akpewe further maintained that beyond personal ambition, Ogboru has consistently positioned himself as the face of opposition politics in Delta State, with his ability to mobilise grassroots support over the years demonstrating his continued relevance in the state’s political landscape.

He said the large turnout that greeted Ogboru during his recent return to Delta State at Osubi Airport reinforced the belief among his supporters that his political structure remains intact and that many still believe in his capacity to provide purposeful leadership.

The party spokesman also argued that many of Ogboru’s supporters believe previous elections did not fully reflect his electoral strength, noting that several of the contests generated legal disputes and public debates over the credibility of the electoral process.

Akpewe expressed optimism that the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 governorship election could favour Ogboru, stressing that changing alliances, shifting voter expectations and evolving political realities make every election unique and present fresh opportunities.

He added that regardless of differing political opinions, Ogboru has earned a place among Delta State’s most enduring political figures through his consistency and resilience, expressing confidence that the 2027 election will ultimately allow the people of the state to decide whether years of persistence will culminate in electoral victory.