By Folarin Kehinde

The National Youth Leader (Female) of the African Democratic Congress, Princess Obaro Uloho, has paid glowing tribute to veteran Delta politician, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru, as he marks his 68th birthday, describing him as a father figure, a resilient leader, and the enduring symbol of opposition politics in Delta State.

In a statement released to commemorate the occasion, Uloho lauded Ogboru—popularly known as the “People’s General”—for his decades-long commitment to democratic ideals and his unwavering challenge to dominant political structures in the state.
“Happy 68th Birthday to you. You are a father and a leader. May God continue to keep you for the people of Delta State,” she stated.

Emergence as Opposition Figure

Uloho recounted Ogboru’s political journey, which began in 2003 when he contested the Delta State governorship election under the Alliance for Democracy (AD), challenging then incumbent, James Ibori of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

She noted that his entry into the race marked the birth of a formidable opposition movement in a state long dominated by the PDP.
“From the outset, Chief Ogboru was not just another candidate; he became a symbol of resistance and hope for many Deltans seeking alternative leadership,” she said.

Years of Sustained Contest

According to Uloho, Ogboru consolidated his opposition credentials through successive electoral contests. In 2007, he ran under the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) against Emmanuel Uduaghan, and again featured prominently in the 2011 re-run election.

She emphasized that during this period, Ogboru built a strong grassroots following, particularly in Delta Central, while also contributing to the emergence of legislators under the DPP platform.

Strategic Political Realignments

Highlighting his adaptability, Uloho pointed out that Ogboru adopted a multi-party strategy to sustain opposition relevance.

He contested the 2015 election under the Labour Party and later flew the flag of the All Progressives Congress in 2019, both times challenging incumbent governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.

She described these shifts not as inconsistency but as strategic efforts to unify opposition forces in a politically challenging environment.

‘People’s General’ and Political Branding

Uloho noted that Ogboru’s moniker,
“The People’s General,” reflects his populist appeal, resilience, and longstanding image as a fighter against entrenched political dominance.

“For over two decades, he has remained a constant candidate, a recognizable political brand, and a rallying point for opposition politics in Delta State,” she said.

Enduring Opposition Legacy

While acknowledging criticisms surrounding party defections and electoral losses, Uloho maintained that Ogboru’s legacy transcends electoral victories.

She argued that his true contribution lies in institutionalizing opposition politics in Delta State and providing a platform for political participation outside the dominant PDP structure.

“No other opposition figure in Delta State has demonstrated his level of persistence, visibility, and influence over such a long period,” she added.

Final Tribute

Reaffirming her admiration, Uloho declared that Ogboru’s impact on the lives of many Nigerians remains indelible.

“The number of lives touched by the People’s General cannot be erased by any form of blackmail,” she said.

She concluded with a strong endorsement of his political stature, stating, “The fear of Ogboru is the beginning of preparation to rig elections, because they can never win in a free and fair contest. Long live the People’s General.”

Ogboru’s political journey, she stressed, stands as proof that in a dominant-party system, persistence can be as influential as electoral victory.