A group of non-indigenes in Warri and its environs in Delta has thrown their weights behind the re-election of Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa and his Deputy, Kingsley Otuaro.
The group, under the auspices of “Team Favour Izoukumor for Okowa/Otuaro” spoke through its leader, Mr Owolabi Sunday at the inauguration and rally for the governor in Warri on Sunday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that OKowa/Otuaro is seeking re-election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The chairman of the team said at the forum that the non-indigenes comprise the Yorubas, Ibos, Hausas and Edo people residing in Warri and its environs.
Sunday said that the team’s decision to support Okowa/Otuaro’s re-election was based on the governor’s people-oriented programmes, policies and developmental achievement across Delta.
He said that all members of the team were in possession of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to exercise their franchise and work for the re-election of Okowa in the 2019 election.
“No doubt, Okowa/Otuaro combination has done very well for the state. So, it was easy for us to come together and unite to support and work for their re-election.
“Our desire is neither selfish nor motivated by pecuniary considerations. We are self-reliant because this land has been good for us, we are not seeking personal gains.
“His government has impacted positively in the lives of the people, earn the thrust of people’s support, which necessitated our support for him,” Sunday said.
He also commended Favour Izoukumor, the Commissioner representing Ijaw Ethnic Nationality on the Board of Delta Oil Producing and Development Commission (DESOPADEC) for his detribalisation.
“It is against this backdrop that we chose him to be the rally point of this our drive,” he said.
Responding, Izoukumor urged the team to remain focus and maintain the commitment that brought them together.
“It is good to start well, better to continue to build on the strong foundation, but it is best to finish strong.
“We cannot commend ourselves now until we deliver Okowa with a margin of victory that bears testimony of his acceptance and popularity.
“So, we must not get carried away; let’s remain resolute and carry through with this spirit until we cast our vote for the man who has done so well,” he said.