Political commentator Basil Okoh has reignited debate over the influence of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
Okoh backed recent claims by former Speaker Victor Ochei that Okowa is not giving Oborevwori enough room to govern independently.
He recalled the 2010–2011 period when Sam Obi served briefly as acting governor, alleging that Okowa maintained a constant presence around the administration.
According to Okoh, many politicians and government officials witnessed Okowa’s active involvement in government affairs during that period.
The writer dismissed attempts by former Chief Press Secretary Olisa Ifeajika to deny allegations of interference by the former governor.
He argued that Okowa’s frequent appearances alongside Governor Oborevwori at official functions have strengthened public perceptions of continued influence.
Okoh said concerns about the former governor’s involvement have become widespread discussion across Delta State.
He maintained that Ochei merely voiced concerns already circulating among political stakeholders and residents.
The article claimed that persistent perceptions of Okowa’s influence have raised questions about Oborevwori’s political independence.
Okoh contrasted the situation with previous transitions involving former governors James Ibori and Emmanuel Uduaghan.
According to him, neither Ibori nor Uduaghan maintained such a visible presence in government after leaving office.
He described Okowa as unusually active in state affairs despite no longer occupying an official position.
The writer alleged that Okowa frequently visits Government House and remains closely involved in governmental activities.
He further claimed that such involvement has generated complaints among some government workers and political observers.
Okoh criticised Ifeajika for publicly defending Okowa, arguing that the allegations are already firmly established in public discourse.
He noted that some Urhobo leaders and groups have previously expressed concern about the former governor’s perceived influence.
The article praised Ochei for drawing attention to what it described as a significant governance issue in the state.
Okoh insisted that Oborevwori was elected to govern and should be allowed to exercise authority without external control.
He argued that continued perceptions of interference undermine confidence in the governor’s leadership capacity.
A major focus of the article was Ifeajika’s defense of Okowa’s role in government achievements.
Okoh interpreted Ifeajika’s comments as acknowledgement that Okowa’s influence contributed to policy implementation and project completion.
He particularly criticized statements suggesting that such involvement had produced developmental gains across the state.
According to Okoh, those remarks imply that Oborevwori requires guidance from Okowa to achieve success in office.
The writer argued that this narrative diminishes the governor’s credibility and authority.
He concluded that Ifeajika’s response ultimately reinforced, rather than weakened, Ochei’s allegations of political interference.
Okoh also suggested that doubts about Oborevwori’s independence continue to shape public perceptions of his administration.
The article further highlighted growing calls among some Urhobo political interests for more independent leadership in Delta State.
Okoh maintained that questions surrounding power, influence, and decision-making remain central to Delta’s evolving political landscape.
