2015: I have what it takes to govern Delta State –Obuh

He is relatively unknown in Delta politics but people who knew Mr. Tony Obuh have described him as a workaholic and an achiever who has served various governments meritoriously since the creation of Delta State. But today, Obuh, who people believe cannot hurt a fly has come out boldly to tell whoever cares to listen that he has all it takes to govern Delta State and turn its fortune around with his magic wand.
The aspirant, who has since quit his plum job as a super Permanent Secretary in the state civil service expresses confidence that he will be the next governor of the state under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In an interaction with Daily Sun in Warri, the Ika-born bureaucrat says big names does not matter anymore in today’s politics, insisting that the only ingredient required to win elections is one’s acceptability by the electorate.
Excerpts:
Why do you want to govern Delta State?
Well, I want to add value to the welfare of the people of the state. I mean, to groom the already developed Delta State that ranks among the best states in the federation.
Do you have the required experience to become a governor?
I will not fail to tell you that I am more experienced now than most of the people aspiring to be governor. The fact is that I am part of the philosophy that believes in Delta beyond oil programme. Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan in his wisdom and by the super knowledgeable person he is, decided to come out with that philosophy of Delta Beyond Oil programme. If you really view it, you will agree with me that we don’t have to rely on oil alone; infact, we have to diversity and that is exactly what Governor Uduaghan is doing right now. This Delta Beyond Oil philosophy is to also enhance the rapid growth and development of our dear state.
It is no more secret that I have intimidating antecedents that can really catapult me to the Government House in 2015. There are people who respect my views both in government and outside government circle.
What are your chances of clinching your party’s ticket among other big names that are contesting for same?
In fact, I have the greatest respect for them but let me quickly add that in the present day politics, big names no longer count. You are respected and can be victorious with the quality of person you are. Gone are the days when big names are strong factors in the political diadem; however I don’t believe that anybody is more superior to me in this race.
Those people who think that I am still a green horn are making mistakes. The fact that I have not been coming out on the pages of newspapers does not mean that I don’t have contacts. I don’t have to be a newspaper tiger before I can win election. There are a lot of people who know my worth and I believe they will always support me at any time.
Even with some big names campaigning for you, why are you confident that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan will hand over to you?
You have said it all. This is part of the ground work and antecedents that I have been able to make. Chief Ayiri Emami, a great philanthropist and political giant in the PDP and other political sages are solidly behind me. Don’t forget that I have a lot of friends, both in government and in social circle. Besides, I am from a humble family and from Delta North Senatorial District. In fact, these and many other factors will ensure my victory in 2015 by the grace of God.
What is your comment on the state of insecurity in the country, especially in the North?
It is the responsibility of all Nigerians to continue to pray fervently for God’s intervention.
President Goodluck Jonathan and all the state Governors, particularly my Governor, Dr. Uduaghan, who have been praying very hard, should continue to ensure there is peace in the country as well as the safe release of the Chibok girls presently being held hostage by Boko Haram.
Can you take an overview of 2015 election?
Well, I am happy that even Nigerians are praying very hard for smooth and hitch free elections and I believe that by the grace of God there will be peace all through.