By lbrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Dr. Emmanuel Usiwoghene Unuafe has reaffirmed his claim to the governorship ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Delta State, stating that his silence amid recent developments within the party should not be interpreted as acceptance of reports identifying Chief Great Ogboru as the party’s governorship candidate.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Unuafe said he had received numerous inquiries from supporters and stakeholders seeking clarification on his position following public discussions surrounding the ADC governorship ticket in the state.

According to him, his decision not to publicly respond earlier was informed by a desire to promote unity and reconciliation within the party rather than deepen existing divisions.

He described Chief Great Ogboru as a respected political figure whose contributions to Delta State politics should be acknowledged, adding that he had made efforts to engage various stakeholders and groups across differing political interests in pursuit of party cohesion.

Unuafe maintained that he remains the legitimate ADC governorship candidate in Delta State, arguing that political mandates should be determined through due process and lawful procedures rather than public pronouncements.

“My mandate is neither negotiable through intimidation nor transferable through media parades,” he said.

The governorship aspirant further stated that his political decisions were guided by personal conviction, faith, and what he described as a commitment to serving the people of Delta State.

Drawing references from several biblical passages, Unuafe said opposition and challenges often accompany leadership and public service, urging his supporters to remain calm and peaceful.

He also appealed to party members and residents of the state to focus on facts and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.

“I am not in this race to fight personalities. I am in this race to advance a vision of unity, prosperity, justice and responsible leadership,” he stated.

Unuafe reiterated his commitment to pursuing his political aspirations through lawful and peaceful means while expressing confidence that the issues surrounding the party’s governorship ticket would ultimately be resolved.

Efforts to obtain reactions from other parties mentioned in the statement were not immediately successful as of the time of filing this report.