Delta Govt.’s move to APC anchored on good governance — Aniagwu
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By Ifeanyi Olannye
Mr Charles Aniagwu, Delta Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, says the recent move by the state government to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is anchored on good governance and not politics.
Aniagwu stated this in Asaba on Tuesday, while addressing newsmen on the political realignment that saw the entire state structures of the PDP defecting to the ruling APC.
He recalled that the recent political realignment saw key members of the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, including lawmakers and political appointees, defect from the PDP to the APC.
Aniagwu described the realignment as a strategic move in the best interest of governance and development in Delta.
He said that the defection, though unprecedented, followed wide consultation and a collective decision among stakeholders across the state.
“We have examined a whole lot of issues around the need for us to take the decision that we took.
“We are quite convinced that the decision is in the best interest of the development of our state”.
Aniagwu dismissed the notions that the movement was borne out of weakness, adding that PDP was still strong in Delta when the decision to move was taken.
He, however, said that the “intractable challenges” at the PDP national level was part of the motivation for the shift.
“While the PDP gave us a platform for over 26 years to drive development, the inability of the party to reposition itself as a viable opposition capable of competing politically became worrying,” he said.
He likened the situation to a medical scenario where a blood transfusion is required to preserve life, emphasizing that while political identity had long been rooted in the PDP, the change was necessary to maintain the vitality of governance in the state.
Addressing criticism from some members of the APC over the influx of former PDP members, the commissioner referenced the party’s 2014 merger history, calling for internal unity.
He called for internal unity among the APC in the state, saying, “We are not here to take over the APC but to strengthen it.
“The party becomes stronger when new forces align with existing structures. We acknowledge that some persons may feel displaced, but it is all part of the political evolution,” he said.
He said that APC stalwarts and former governorship candidate, O’tega Emerhor, remains supportive of the governor’s decision and has thrown his weight behind the movement.
Aniagwu assured the people of the state that governance had not taken a backseat due to the political changes.
He said that Gov. Oborevwori’s recent inspection of projects across all senatorial districts was a proof that development remains the administration’s priority.
“In the end, politics is only a vehicle. What truly matters is what we do with power when we have it.
“And for us, it is about delivering infrastructure, empowering our people, and linking up with the Federal Government to attract greater benefits for our state,” he said.
Aniagwu called for inclusiveness and reconciliation among party members to ensure a smooth blend.
He reiterated that consultations were extensive before the move, and engagements with the grassroots and APC faithful were ongoing to ensure a seamless integration process.
“We’re currently in the stirring phase. The milk has been poured into the cup, but it must be stirred so every part tastes right. That’s what we’re doing, achieving a smooth blend,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).
Edited by Benson Iziama
