DELTA 2023: The Fear of Doing the Right Thing, How Level is the playing Field Promised by Okowa
FocalPoint Editorial
By Ezekiel Kagbala FPR
Rolling deep into Delta State 2023 Governorship primary election, the People's Democratic Party, PDP, is about to experience conflict of interest if it has not already happened on a 'smoked screen' that is deceptive.
Some key political leaders may be projecting and sponsoring aspirants of questionable reputation and character. This is often done with resources of the State in the use of public funds that may have been successfully misappropriated.
ecall that Governor Okowa had already promised a free, fair, and credible primary election with a level-playing field for all aspirants. The question is that, "How level would that level playing field be since most of the elected officers and appointees of the current administration are also contesting?"
How level is that playing field when those who have never done anything to earn a living are suddenly rolling out mind boggling numbers of exotic cars in their fleets of convoy in the name of consultations?
How level is the playing field when those who claimed to have resigned are still playing dual role in the Government, even using Government vehicles and offices to facilitate all their political activities?
How level is the playing field when Delta State Government officials accompany aspirants who are still working in the current administration on a consultative visit with the use of Government official vehicles?
How level is the playing field when nobody has been endorsed but somebody is using public resources and a group loyal to the current administration to facilitate the activities of his aspiration?
How level is the playing field when suddenly an appointee who denied his resignation is suddenly coming out to say "I am aspiring", even getting so emboldened to use the current administration's slogan: "Strong Delta"?
Going by the quantity of aspirats from Delta Central and Delta South, their votes from delegates would be divided. The bulk votes for the PDP primary election may come from Delta North and the grand commander of the delegates will definitely be the Governor, a smart politician in a smart Delta State.
The question is; "Who is afraid of loosing grip on power?" They are the current power brokers, the leaders who feels recycling themselves around power is the only means of sustenance. It shouldn't be surprising how they make up all forms of political calculations and manipulations to satiate their desperation for power.
As Deltans we cannot lie to ourselves forever, all is not well. The way and manner in which aspirants are springing out within the PDP for the primary election is questionable if they must get it right.
Can PDP be trusted to screen away those who have been in the corridor of power as Delta State Government appointees, elected officials whose interest is shrouded in controversy?
Should those invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for investigation and still being investigate, get some sorts of support to contest with independent self-made aspirants?
Level playing ground should be fully leveled; the way and manner aspirants are being admitted should reflect the Party's resolve to conduct free and fair primary elections that should enthrone quality men.
