Although he made it clear that Prince Ned Nwoko is a better candidate for Delta North than former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, but the Chief Executive Officer of Godday Aluminum Company Limited, Johnson Godday Chukwudi, has called for a rethink of Delta North’s political structure, citing entrenched godfatherism and delegate control as barriers to competitive representation.
In an exclusive interview with Ekunkonye Junior on Sunday, Chukwudi weighed in on the agitation for Anioma State, identity politics, and the upcoming Senate contest between Senator Ned Nwoko and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. He described the current system as “built to produce only them” and urged delegates to “vote for Nwoko, based on track record and development.” Excerpts.
The system that keeps producing them is built in such a way that it’s only them that can be produced. The structure is aligned with the governor
PULL QUOTE 2:
“My language is 70% Igbo background. I cannot say I don’t have Igbo blood. We were able to cross the Niger.”
Ned is more approachable. He has investment, philanthropy, and projects on ground. Delegates should vote wisely
Frankly, Senator Nwoko is a better senatorial candidate than Okowa — Concerned indigene, Chukwudi
Although he said Prince Ned Nwoko is a better candidate for Delta North than former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, but the Chief Executive Officer of Godday Aluminum Company Limited, Johnson Godday Chukwudi, has called for a rethink of Delta North’s political structure, citing entrenched godfatherism and delegate control as barriers to competitive representation. In an exclusive interview with Ekunkonye Junior on Sunday, Chukwudi weighed in on the agitation for Anioma State, identity politics, and the upcoming Senatorial contest in the state. He described the current system as “built to produce only them” and urged delegates to “vote for Nwoko, based on track record and development.” Excerpts
Can you briefly speak on the agitation for a new state from Delta your state?
Local development is what everybody needs. A new state means three senators, more House of Representatives members, and additional openings. The agitation is driven by the need to complete the six states in the South East. That is the major consideration.
What is your personal support for Anioma State?
I cannot be against it. In Anioma, the linguistic and cultural composition is approximately 60–70% Igbo. From Eku to Asaba, the dialect is pure Igbo, though it begins to mix with Edo influences further west.
What is your take in a former office holder seeking return to the Senate?
His chances are limited. The individual’s political godfather is returning to active politics and maintains strong ties with the governor. As we know, they control the political structure.
Can you identify the godfather?
Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State.
Should godfathers monopolise appointment of office holders?
No, it should not be their sole prerogative. However, politically, they have hijacked the process. The system is structured to reproduce the same set of actors, regardless of public sentiment.
Can you speak on the APC delegate system for Senate nomination?
The structure is the issue. National Assembly members are automatic delegates. “Ned is more approachable. He has investment, philanthropy, and projects on ground. Delegates should vote wisely.” Ward leaders and local government chairmen are delegates. Most are aligned with the governor. That determines outcomes.
Between Nwoko and Okowa, who is your preferred candidate?
Speaking frankly, Senator Ned Nwoko is the better candidate. His tenure has not been a ‘scam’, as some claim. He understands the political calculation required for effective representation.
Can you speak on accusations of polarizing the system?
I do not support polarization. But if this leads to a necessary political revolution that opens up the space, then it should be considered.
Can you throw light on Igbo identity in Delta North?
We have an Igbo background. My language is 70% Igbo. I cannot deny Igbo ancestry. Our people crossed the Niger and retained that heritage.
What would be your advice to delegates?
Vote wisely. Senator Nwoko has shown up with verifiable projects. The electorate can see that he is making an effort.
Can you speak on Nwoko’s comparative advantages?
He is more approachable and has significant investments, including a university in Delta State. He is a known philanthropist who has assisted many people. He is more accessible to constituents.
Let us have your view on contrasting leadership styles?
By comparison, Dr. Okowa is a very conservative spender. But the political system has studied itself. It does not study ordinary citizens. If the system decides to promote you, it will deliver you.
What exactly do you mean by “the system?
It is the network of automatic delegates, party leaders, and elected officials aligned with the executive. That alignment makes it difficult for non-establishment candidates to emerge.
What is your take on whether Anioma State resolves representation gaps?
It will help. A full state grants three senators and more federal constituencies. It deconcentrates power and addresses the agitation to complete the South East’s six-state structure.
What is your final message ahead of next election?
Delegates must remember that power ultimately belongs to the people. They should prioritize track record, accessibility, and development
“The system that keeps producing them is built in such a way that it’s only them that can be produced. The structure is aligned with the governor.” Nwoko has demonstrated that through projects and philanthropy. Do not let the system decide for you, understand and use it wisely.
As at Press time all efforts to Reach Distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Okowa proved abortive. Weekenders magazine will feature Senator Okowa next Week.