Yoruba Tennis Club Lecture: Oborevwori’s 2023 Election Reference Highlights Strength of Democracy, Not Division — Oghenesivbe
The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. (Barr.) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has clarified that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s reference to his victory in the 2023 governorship election was intended to reinforce democratic values and not to incite division within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.
Governor Oborevwori, while delivering a keynote lecture titled “Inclusive Governance and National Unity: Lessons from Delta State for a More United Nigeria” at the centennial celebration of the Yoruba Tennis Club, reflected on the political dynamics of the 2023 election. In his remarks, he noted that he secured victory against Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who at the time served as Deputy Senate President, despite perceived institutional advantages.
The comments have since drawn mixed reactions from some APC supporters, with concerns raised over their potential political implications. However, speaking during an interview on Crown FM on Friday, Oghenesivbe maintained that the governor’s remarks were made in context and should be properly understood.
According to him, the governor’s reference to the 2023 electoral contest was a legitimate illustration of resilience, democratic choice, and the will of the people. He emphasized that it formed part of a broader narrative aimed at promoting inclusive governance and post-election reconciliation.
“Governor Oborevwori’s message was clear, elections may be fiercely contested, but governance must be inclusive. His actions since assuming office, particularly efforts to foster unity across political divides, demonstrate a commitment to peace and collective progress,” Oghenesivbe stated.
He further noted that the governor’s reconciliation posture, including outreach to former political opponents, reflects political maturity and should serve as a model for stakeholders across party lines.
Addressing internal developments within the APC in Delta State, Oghenesivbe described the endorsement of Senator Ede Dafinone as a consensus candidate for the 2027 Delta Central Senatorial District as a constructive move toward party cohesion. He commended Dafinone’s legislative performance and urged continued support for his leadership.
Oghenesivbe also acknowledged Senator Ovie Omo-Agege as a key stakeholder in Delta APC politics, calling for sustained collaboration and mutual respect among party leaders. He stressed that unity remains essential for political stability and long-term relevance.
While differing perspectives may arise from politically significant moments, he noted that what remains paramount is the shared responsibility to build bridges beyond electoral contests.
Delta State’s progress, the Bureau Chief added, depends on the ability of its leaders and stakeholders to close ranks, align on common goals with the governor and leader of the party in the state, and place the collective interest above partisan considerations.
He concluded by urging all political actors to focus on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting dialogue, and prioritizing the overall development of Delta State above partisan interests.
