BY FESTUS AHON

UGHELLI—A cross section of Deltans, yesterday described the nomination of Dr. Steve Oru, South-South Vice Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as a minister as a good omen for the Urhobo people in particular and Delta State in general.

Those who spoke include Chief Tom Amioku, PDP Chairman, Delta Central, Chief Mike Adiotomre, Chief Benson Asore, Chief Ojumah, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Prince Eric Oharisi, Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Chief  Charles Obule, Chief G.N.O. Sefia, General Alfred Ilogho, Mrs Philipa Atagana Longe, Prince Paul Uweche, Chief Tony Oboroh, Prince Ben Oru, Chief Ochuko Edevbie, Mr. Halims Agoda, Mr. Tony Akpomiemie, Mr. Sam Mariere, Dr. Israel Abido, Mr. Tony Oru.

Sir Tom Amioku, said: “The ministerial nominee is a credible Urhobo son, an original PDP indigene/leader, who has remained steadfast and served as a source of encouragement to PDP faithful.”

Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, said: “Urhobo people are happy that they now have the right person to represent Urhobo nation and the good people of Delta State at the Federal Executive Council.”

Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, on his part, said: “It is said that if a leader walks on the street with nobody following, then such a leader is only strolling. Dr.  Oru does not walk alone, he has a mammoth crowd of Urhobo people and indeed Deltans walking with him. The signals are clear, a credible man of the people has been called to duty. To God be the glory.”

Others who spoke in the same vein expressed confidence that Oru will make the state proud as a minister.

Meanwhile, Dr. Oru, in his remarks when he was welcomed by a cross section of Deltans at Osubi Airport, Delta State, after his nomination, thanked everyone present for the love and support demonstrated by the surprise welcome reception organised for him. He also thanked God for the rare privilege of the nomination as a minister and other privileges he has enjoyed in life.

He expressed gratitude to President  Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Mohammed Sambo,  Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Chief Edwin Clark, PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, and PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Chief Tony Anenih, for making the appointment possible.