By Abba -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
Johnson Godday Chukwudi, Managing Director of Godday Aluminum Company Limited, Abuja, has explained why many people in Delta North prefer Senator Ned Nwoko over former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the Delta North senatorial seat. He spoke in an interview on Sunday, where he weighed the political dynamics ahead of the next election.
Chukwudi said support for Nwoko goes beyond his push for the creation of Anioma State. According to him, Nwoko has established several businesses in Delta State that have created jobs for people in Delta North and the wider state. He cited Nwoko’s university in the area as one of such investments.
Describing Nwoko as a philanthropist, Chukwudi noted that the senator has helped many people and is more approachable and friendlier than Okowa, whom he described as “very stingy.” He added that Nwoko’s visibility and projects have made him popular among constituents.
However, Chukwudi pointed out a contradiction, stating that when Okowa previously served in the Senate, he did nothing for the people of the senatorial district. For that, he maintained that Nwoko remains the better candidate between the two men.
On the agitation for Anioma State, the businessman said he cannot be against it. He explained that the proposed state would mean more senators, House of Representatives members, and other opportunities. He noted that the agitation is tied to the push to give the South East an additional state to complete its six-state structure like other zones.
Addressing the ethnic identity debate, Chukwudi said his own language is about 70% Igbo-based and affirmed his Igbo background. He explained that while some communities around Edo mix their dialect, areas Asaba and environs speak “pure” Igbo, adding that he cannot deny his Igbo heritage.
On the political reality, Chukwudi said Nwoko’s return to the Senate may be difficult because Okowa, whom he described as Nwoko’s godfather, is also seeking to return. He stated that Okowa is on good terms with the governor, and together they control the political structure in the state.
He explained that the system is “hijacked” in such a way that only anointed candidates emerge, especially through delegates. With Okowa now in the APC, Chukwudi said the delegates, which include National Assembly members, party leaders, and chairmen, will align with the governor and Okowa.
When asked who his candidate is, Chukwudi responded that he is not a politician but, speaking sincerely, Nwoko is the better candidate. He argued that Okowa’s time in the Senate was “more or less a scam,” though he acknowledged that political calculations often override such sentiments.
Chukwudi advised delegates to “vote wisely,” stressing that Nwoko has shown commitment to key projects like Anioma State and has demonstrated impact through investments and philanthropy. He concluded that while the political system favours entrenched interests, Nwoko has earned more goodwill among the people.
