DEACON RAYMOND EDIJALA is the Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State for Project Monitoring and a former Transition Committee Chairman of Udu Local Government Council. In this interview with SUNDAY APAH, he discusses the newly formed Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum, the development initiatives of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other pertinent public issues.
Excerpts:
As the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring, how would you assess the Governor’s performance since taking office?
The Governor’s performance has been nothing short of outstanding. I am genuinely impressed by the volume of projects he has initiated and the level of empowerment he is providing. The political patronage extended to all sectors has exceeded my expectations. Overall, I can confidently say that the Governor has excelled in his duties.
What is your response to the minority voices from opposition parties claiming that the Governor has not performed?
The criticisms from the opposition are largely unfounded. It is common for opponents to seek out reasons to criticize the Governor, irrespective of the realities on the ground. The accomplishments we are witnessing make it disheartening for anyone to claim otherwise. In my view, the opposition has little—if anything—to substantiate their claims. I am confident that by 2027, we will see numerous developmental projects credited to the Governor.
What do you believe has led to the defection of some members of the PDP to the APC in the state?
The motivations for these defections appear to be driven by personal interests aimed at creating the perception that their party is performing better. From my vantage point as the Executive Assistant on Project Monitoring, I can attest that the PDP-led government is making significant strides. If the APC were in power, I doubt they would achieve what this government is accomplishing. Look at our roads, schools, market projects, and various empowerment initiatives—all indicative of the progress we are making. It is imperative that the opposition recognizes the success of our Governor.
What is your stance regarding the calls from some individuals in Delta South and North Senatorial Districts for the Governor to serve just one term, thereby allowing a candidate from Delta Central to take over? Is this approach favorable to the South and North districts?
I believe that the Governor is already achieving remarkable results in his first term and deserves a second term based on these ongoing accomplishments. The principle of “one good turn deserves another” applies here. If the Governorship goes to another person in Delta central, what happens if the succeeding candidate seeks re-election? This could lead to significant unrest, and the state is not prepared for that. I urge everyone, particularly those in the opposition, to remain calm and support the Governor in delivering the M.O.R.E Agenda to the people of Delta and to advocate for his second term to maintain our existing zoning arrangements.
Could you share some outcomes from the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency Forum meeting held in Asaba?
Our meeting was a positive step in the right direction, although the operational framework still needs refinement. The intention is clear: we have our Governor, Representatives in the House, local government chairmen, commissioners, and, importantly, we need to ensure unity moving forward. While there are currently some grievances, I believe that, with sincerity and a commitment to collaboration, we can address these issues over time.
Sir, the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency did not win the last elections. Do you believe that with these forces uniting as one, they can overcome the opposition in 2027?
In politics, unity is key. The more participants we have in this effort, the more effective we will be. I encourage everyone to set aside differences, foster forgiveness, and work collaboratively to include all voices. Sending the right signals to the public is crucial. Other constituencies have successfully formed their forums, and I am optimistic that by uniting, we can mobilize women, youth, and others towards our common goal of electoral success.
You previously mentioned the Governor’s numerous projects in the state. Can you confirm if the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency has benefited from these initiatives, and if so, could you highlight some of them?
It is essential to recognize that in politics, those who cast votes often take precedence over those who do not. While we have ongoing projects in our constituency, such as the nearly completed Udu Harbour Market, many more are needed. Roads have been addressed, and though there is still work to be done, I am confident that by 2027, all dilapidated roads will receive the attention they deserve. While expectations may not fully align with the current state of affairs, I assure you that the government under Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to delivering even more for our people.
Currently, the PDP at the federal level faces numerous factions and challenges. Do you believe that the PDP can secure victories in the upcoming 2027 elections? How can the party resolve these issues swiftly?
Indeed, we are currently facing significant disarray within the party. If we proceed into the electoral arena disjointed, our chances of success at the national level are slim. I urge the party leadership to introspect and engage in compromise to unify our efforts as we approach the 2027 elections. Despite the existing tensions, notably between the secretary and the chairman, our focus must be on the larger goal of ensuring political cohesion and strength moving forward.
