By John Magba

The recent statements credited to Hon. Keston Okoro regarding the leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Udu Local Government Area have generated needless controversy. While the APC warmly welcomes new members, including Chief Eddie Ono-Sorhue and others, the distortion of facts about the party’s leadership is both misleading and damaging to the unity we have painstakingly built.

For the record, there has been no formal process that appointed Sir Richard Odibo or Chief Eddie Ono-Sorhue as co-chairmen or leaders of APC Udu. Hon. Okoro’s claims are therefore inaccurate and risk sowing avoidable discord. At this point in our political journey, what Udu APC requires is not division, but unity, inclusivity, and purpose driven leadership.

At the center of this leadership is Mr. Palama S.K, whose courage, vision, and sacrifices have become the backbone of APC in Udu and Delta State at large. More than a successful business mogul, he is a philanthropist, bridge-builder, and statesman whose humility, generosity, and political wisdom have earned the respect and trust of both elders and the grassroots. His contributions ranging from sponsoring elections to supporting party members in difficult times stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the party’s success.

It was on this undeniable foundation that elders and stakeholders entrusted Mr. Palama with the responsibility of leading the College of Leaders/Caucus of Udu APC. His leadership has brought transparency, peace, and unity to a party that had once been burdened by internal rancor. What sets him apart is not just his intellect and objectivity, but his courage to make difficult decisions in the collective interest of the party.

For example, in his spirit of fairness, Mr. Palama convened a meeting at his residence with ten leaders from each ward including Sir Richard Odibo and Hon. Keston Okoro where he proposed reducing representation from ten leaders to five per ward. This bold yet practical move was designed to integrate new members while maintaining balance. It is unfortunate that, despite this courageous and open handed gesture, some individuals chose the path of self-imposition rather than embracing collective decision-making. True leadership, as Mr. Palama consistently demonstrates, is not claimed by force; it is earned through sacrifice, service, and the confidence of others.

On reconciliation, it should be recalled that the committee established by Comrade David Rhierobore, Udu APC LGA Chairman, successfully addressed grievances from the 2019 elections. While many members were reconciled, attempts to engage Sir Richard Odibo were unsuccessful due to his refusal to cooperate. Furthermore, Hon. Okoro was never a member of this reconciliation committee, contrary to his recent claims. Such revisionism undermines the genuine efforts already made to heal divisions in the party.

The growth and stability of APC in Udu today can be directly traced to Mr. Palama’s inclusive and courageous leadership style. His ability to blend generosity with firmness, and humility with wisdom, has positioned the party on a path of sustained progress. Any attempt to discredit or diminish his leadership is not only unjust but also risks reversing the unity and gains we have already achieved.

Looking ahead, Udu APC must continue to draw strength and inspiration from Mr. Palama’s model of leadership which is rooted in service, inclusivity, fairness, and courage. Only through such collective and principled leadership can APC in Udu grow stronger, remain united, and credibly compete in future elections to deliver for the party.

Olorogun John Magba writes from Opete, Udu LGA of Delta State

Wado Admin

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