We’ll Support Okowa for ‘Third Term’ if it’s Possible, Says Monarch

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Amid incremental political activities and alignments across the country in view of the 2019 general elections, a first-class traditional ruler in Delta State has stated his readiness to recommend Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for not just a second but a third term as Governor, if the Nigeria Constitution allows such.

The Asagba of Asaba, HRM (Prof.) Chike Joseph Edozien, made the assertion in Asaba, the state capital, after a guided tour of ongoing remedial construction work to upgrade the Asaba International Airport.

Obi Edozien, who undertook the inspection of the airport facilities’ upgrading through a high-powered delegation of the Asagba Council of Chiefs, stressed that the performance of the Okowa administration was so remarkable that practically nobody in the state would hesitate to support his ambition to be Governor again in 2019.

Leader of the royal delegation and renowned engineer, Obi Godfrey Konwea, told newsmen that “His Majesty, the Asagba who is currently on medical vacation in the USA, asked us to inspect the airport. We have seen the massive work going on, and this is wonderful.”

While thanking the governor for the impressive airport project, he further said Okowa has obviously justified the funds so far received by the state since the inception of his administration, though the receipts were relatively less than what his predecessors received.

According to the Asagba-in-council, “That Asaba people are peaceful and patient does not mean that we are weak. We have witnessed three democratically elected governors in our state (since 2019), this administration has not received half of the money others received but he (Okowa) has done very well.

“From what we have seen, we the entire Asaba people and those residing in Asaba are grateful to Governor Okowa; we ask him to prepare for, possibly, third term in office.”

Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, thanked the Asagba-in-Council for taking time to inspect the projects being executed, noting that the Governor has created new towns and cities with the provision of infrastructure.

Special Project Director for the airport project, Hon. Austin Ayemidejor, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Works, Mr. Fred Edafiogor and Mr. Jihad Yaghi, who is the Area Manager of Setraco construction firm handling the project, conducted the royal team through the 3.4 kilometres runway where the undulating portions were being peeled off and reinforced with thicker layers of stones and asphalt.

The delegation of the Asagba-in-council, which is an equivalent of the State Executive Council, as well inspected the expanded drainage system, and other functional facilities at the airport including the Fire Service Station, the Flight Watchtower, Luggage Hall with dual carriage elevators, VIP Lounge and Terminal Building.