That day the rumour nearly broke the Internet: “Chief James Onanefe Ibori has decamped to the ruling party”. I was jolted and hit psychologically as if by a thunderbolt!

Within minutes, so many concerned people called me to ask if it was true. I was sad, but within me, I still knew that no matter what, Anioma must get her full eight years like others, even if we have to fight for it: To me, our victory was non-negotiable.

Determined in my heart, I told those who called me that it must be eight years for Anioma as anything short of it would be broad day robbery and a cheating. This we must never accept.

It turned out to be mere propaganda, by the evil forces of darkness who thrive on lies and fake stories. But unknown to the propagandists, while they were rumouring that Chief Ibori has decamped, he was working tirelessly, noiselessly and steadily with his political “son”, friend and brother, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, incumbent Governor of Delta State, to ensure that all goes well to ensure he is re-elected. He stood by him and Anioma people down to the end.

Another time, it was rumoured that Ibori had caved in due to pressure from the top. That is, in order to prevent him from facing persecutions, that he was going to decamp to the ruling party. But he never did. They were all lies from the pit of evil people. Yes, he stayed quiet and continued to work tirelessly underground to support equity and to maintain his brotherhood, brotherly bond and friendship with Okowa.

Yes, Ibori understands the dynamics and politics of Delta State inside out. And as a kingmaker, he knew it would be great injustice to work against Governor Okowa and the Anioma geo-political zone. He didn’t want to work against the man whose mandate God allowed in order to complete his second term. It could be recalled that earlier another past governor who should help to preserve democracy in Delta State was busy scheming to enthrone anarchy, and deny the Anioma incumbent governor of his right to a second term. Chief Ibori, though not having his freedom then, continued to ensure that democracy reigns in Delta State till date.

Your Excellency, Sir, I may not be directly involved with Okowa’s government, but your support was like a personal favour to me and many of us, for the sake of Anioma. Therefore, words are not enough to show my appreciation for your brotherly support.

From the depth of my heart, I am saying Thank You, Your Excellency, Chief James Onanefe Ibori!

You may be different thing to different people. But to me, you are indeed a legend of democracy and unity in Delta State politics.

Before the conspiracies against you, they called you all sorts of names – good and bad – but you have the heart of a godly man, though imperfect, a golden heart too, I must say.

Your loyalty, friendship and dedication to the cause of good and equity in ensuring that democracy triumphs over anarchy, has translated your name from ordinary to where mere mortals cannot dare thread. And you have carved your name this time not in gold anymore, but in a more precious ornament befitting of kings alone, in the annals of Delta State politics and beyond. And you will remain one of the best among good politicians in Nigeria.

Your words have become as clean as the white sand of the ocean; and it turned out to be true just like you said it: “I am with Okowa and Anioma for these eight years.” Indeed, you stayed with Okowa and Anioma to the end.

You have earned our respect, love and trust all over again: Therefore, you will remain His Excellency of all Excellencies.

Migwo Sir! God bless you.

I wish you long Life in good health; filled with joy, peace and abundance.

May Anioma blossom and grow in leaps and bounds with its renewed mandate.

Long live our democracy!

Long live our governor, His Excellency Ifeanyi Okowa.

Long live Delta State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

And cheerful cheers to all Deltans, for our victory and the triumph of democracy.

•Onyekaah Esq (Iyanga Anioma), wrote in from Asaba.

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