By Comrade (Sfy.) Onodarho Esiri.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Delta State Chapter has posited that the dividends of democracy would be its utmost priority once voted in, in the 2023 general elections.
The Party made the assertion on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 when some of its Party leaders and members paid a consultative visit to the 'Igbo Peace Initiatives' at its secretariat situated at Chief Godwin Ogbetuo's Close, off Water Resources, Effurun.
Speaking on behalf of the Party, Hon. Enakireru John, the State Vice Chairman for Delta Central Senatorial District, who led the delegation said, ' the way and manner the leaders and politicians handle leadership positions and government, particularly in Delta State, has resulted in the lose of the real meaning of the term, 'dividends of democracy'. [Indeed] it is not only lost but also thrown away'!
'Dividends of democracy' is now understood and seen by most Nigerians particularly in Delta State, as the benefits to those in government, the politicians and those who are close to them; and members of their families. It is no longer for the benefit of the masses.
He solicited for the Groups unwavering support, and asked that they cast their votes for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate's, beginning with the elections of the National Assembly.
In addition, Mr. Peters Omaruaye, the Party's candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District said that what we are witnessing now are 'democratic failures', driven by the 'divide and rule' policies of those in government. He further stated that, 'No wonder there are now big doubts as to whether the dividends of democracy are really possible in Delta State'!
That most of the conflicts and electoral violence seen are a result of our neglect and betrayal of the dividends of democracy; as elections have become 'a do or die affair'. He assured the Group that APGA and its candidates would change the narrative! Omaruaye passionately requested for the support of 'the Igbo Peace Initiative' and assured them "that once voted in, the All Progressives Grand Alliance would surely bring the dividends of democracy to the masses, fight against corruption and would assiduously work for the removal of this special class called 'the godfathers'. A pattern that has led to the appointment of 'godsons' whose only duty appears to be the servicing of their 'godfathers! He assured the gathering that The All Progressives Grand Allaince would put a stop to this pattern.
Other speakers at the august gathering included Engr. Vincent Urhie, House of Assembly candidate for Uvwie Constituency; Mr. Henry Edaferherhi, House of Assembly candidate for Warri South Constituency 2; Mr. Monday Okubio, House of Assembly candidate for Udu Constituency and Barr. Amos Ejedegba, House of Representatives' candidate for Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency.
In the response of the Igbo Peace Initiatives, its President, Chief Chijoke Emenike commended his guests for standing on the part of bringing the 'dividends of democracy' to the people. He opined that because the Party's governorship candidate, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru has distanced himself from all forms of electoral irregularities, the 'powers that be' have been working against his aspirations.
In continuation, he posited that the Group has resolved to support and work with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the State. He prayed for the success of all its Party candidates, and wished them well! He prayed for their sound health during their campaign season.