By Festus Ahon & Ochuko Akuopha

ASABA—A political pressure group,  Delta Progressives,  yesterday,  berated the Coalition of Chairmen of Registered Political Parties in Delta State for its attack on the programmes of the  state government, saying that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa was applying superior ideas to manage the meagre financial resources of the state.

The group, in a statement by its President, Mr. Ogagaoghene Otikpo  and Secretary,  Mr.  Jeff Okolocha, noted that the chairman of the coalition has been unable to provide any meaningful political presence or platform in the state.

Gov. Okowa

The statement read: “If the group wants political relevance, it should do so on its own without dragging the name of Prof. Pat Utomi along. However, if Utomi or anyone else is interested in Delta State politics, they should come out directly without hiding under the vestiges of an unknown group.

“Opposition politicians in the state must have a proper knowledge of what government can do. It is wrong to falsely make the people believe that government is a daily provider of food on our tables. The state government under Governor Okowa has been providing the necessary infrastructure and the conducive environment for private enterprise to flourish.

“This administration has provided over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs through its empowerment schemes under the STEP and YAGEP programmes. It is also important to point out that Delta State with over 6,000 workforce, has the highest staff on its payroll and salary figures in the country.”

“Our number in primary, post primary and tertiary schools, including staff is the highest in the country. The same goes for the health sector, the State has one of the highest number of hospitals and doctors in the country.

“There is no doubt that every Nigerian is aware of the dire economic challenges facing the tiers of government in the country as at today. All thanks to God, Delta State is presently gifted with a leadership under  Okowa, who is applying superior ideas to manage the meagre financial resources of the State.

“Sadly, some opposition politicians in the state are unimpressed and have continued to sponsor rabid attack against the government, because of their quest for power.”