Ossai Success Ovie’s recent criticism of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege’s declaration speech for Delta Central raises concerns that deserve a calm, balanced response—one that prioritizes unity, context, and political maturity over unnecessary division.
First, it is important to understand the nature and purpose of a declaration speech. Such speeches are typically forward-looking. They are designed to communicate a candidate’s vision, priorities, and connection to the people—not necessarily to itemize acknowledgments of every political actor or stakeholder. Expecting Senator Omo-Agege’s speech to revolve around commendations of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori may miss the central objective of that moment, which is to define his own agenda and re-engage his constituents in Delta Central.
Senator Omo-Agege, a prominent Urhobo leader and former Deputy Senate President, has a long-established political identity and track record. His declaration speech should be evaluated based on the strength of its ideas, clarity of purpose, and relevance to the needs of Delta Central—not merely on who was or wasn’t mentioned. Leadership is not validated by name-dropping but by vision, competence, and the ability to deliver tangible results.
Furthermore, governance in Delta State is a collective effort. While Governor Oborevwori’s contributions to the state are acknowledged and appreciated by many, it is neither compulsory nor politically strategic for every speech by another leader to highlight those contributions. Political actors can coexist, contribute differently, and still work toward shared progress without constant public cross-referencing.
It is also worth noting that Delta Central, largely inhabited by the Urhobo people, has long benefited from a tradition of strong, influential voices advocating for development and representation. Political leaders like Omo-Agege and Oborevwori, are part of this broader ecosystem of leadership. Turning their individual political expressions into points of contention risks undermining the unity that has historically strengthened the region’s bargaining power.
To Ossai Success Ovie, this is a moment to reflect on the broader implications of public commentary. While critique is a vital part of democratic engagement, it must be constructive, fair, and mindful of its potential to inflame unnecessary tensions. Framing a speech as divisive simply because it did not highlight the Governor’s contributions or leadership may inadvertently sow discord among Urhobo sons who, in reality, share more common goals than differences.
At a time when Delta Central and Delta State at large face pressing developmental challenges—from infrastructure to youth empowerment—the focus should be on ideas, collaboration, and accountability. Public commentators and influencers have a responsibility to elevate discourse, not reduce it to personality-based rivalries.
In conclusion, Senator Omo-Agege’s declaration speech should be judged on its substance and its promise to the people of Delta Central. Political leaders are not diminished by the absence of mention in another’s speech, just as they are not defined solely by public praise. What truly matters is performance, impact, and the collective progress of the people.
It is therefore prudent to urge Ossai Success Ovie to channel his voice toward fostering unity, encouraging healthy political engagement, and avoiding narratives that may deepen divisions among respected Urhobo leaders. Delta Central—and indeed Delta State—stands to gain far more from cohesion than from contention.
Hon. Gabriel Ovie Okene (PhD in view)
writes from Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.
