By Gabriel Ewepu
ABUJA- A political bigwig in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Tam Odogwu, has condemned the politics of blackmail and acrimony in Delta State by some politicians and their supporters.

Odogwu made the remarks at the weekend when analysing recent political development in the state, and said blackmail and acrimony was not in the interest of Delta and Deltans as far as peace and development are concerned.

He said: “I was disappointed to read a publication made on page 48 of Vanguard Newspaper on the 26th of April 2016, where some politicians in Delta State have embarked on a mission of cheap blackmail and filthy slander on our Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

“It is surprising to hear some so-called politicians and their supporters in this modern era of politics go on with politics of blackmail to dent the image and good work of others instead of constructive and civilised argument with the intention to contribute to positively to the development of the state.

“The stewardship of Okowa within this short period in office epitomise him as a leader with high sense of transparency, credibility and focus. What he needs now is our prayers and support and not mudslinging and filthy slanders. Let us shun politics of acrimony, blackmail and careless use of derogatory language as politicians. It is not right.

“Their blackmail is not far-fetched and that is on the monorail project the Governor is proposing to embark on and in order to ease the transport situation in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
“It is surprising that these crop of individuals who claim to be literates don’t understand the effectiveness, ease and safety of modern modes of transportation within and between towns or cities in which monorail is one of them.

“Instead of hiding their ignorance, they decided to embark on a campaign of calumny, blackmail and acrimony. The decision by our performing governor, Dr. Okowa to construct monorail in Asaba is not only timely but also highly laudable and commendable considering the monumental gains associated with such project. To clear the ignorance of these self acclaimed politicians, the benefit of motor rail is not only safe and cost effective but also environment friendly.”

The grassroots politician also explained the benefits of the mono-rail project and said it will enhance movement of persons and goods easily and safely.

“It will also lessen traffic congestion that has become a recurrent decimal in Asaba and its environs. The proposed monorail project is not only economically viable but is a necessity because is fast and time saving.

“And will also attract investors to the state to establish their business, which will further boost the economy of the Delta State.

“It is also a means of revenue generation by the government for development of the state. The government will further replicate such project to connect the coastal and upland parts of the state,” he said.

He also advised people to critically appraise the viability and utility of a project before engaging on unsubstantiated criticisms and insinuations geared towards besmirching reputation of the Governor and his development roadmap for the state.