Awani Passes Vote of Confidence on Tinubu, Oborevwori, Urges Equal Distribution of Democracy’s Dividends

Former Warri South Local Government Aspirant under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Esimaje Awani and his support group, Team Esimaje Awani (TEA) have passed vote of confidence on Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, while calling for equitable distribution of the nation’s resources and dividends of democracy.

Speaking on the complexities facing both Nigeria and Delta State, on Saturday, February 22 in Warri, Esimaje Awani, Chairman of the group acknowledged the challenges that come with policy shifts but emphasized the need for national unity and patience.

He called on Nigerians to give credit where it’s due, particularly commending President Tinubu for his efforts in combating fraud in the oil and gas sector, especially within the Niger Delta.

“Tinubu has made significant strides in reducing fraud in the oil and gas industry, especially in the Niger Delta,” Awani said. “The recent allocation of oil mining licenses (OMLs) reflects a fairer distribution, with a number of Niger Delta people benefiting.”

Awani further extended his group’s support for Tinubu, noting, “We are passing a vote of confidence on Tinubu. If it were easy, they should have been the ones in Aso Rock. We will stand by you to ensure the dividends of democracy reach all Nigerians, Deltans, and the people of this great city.”

The group also used the opportunity to address political developments in Delta State, particularly in the Oborevwori’s administration. While praising Oborevwori for his ongoing projects, Awani criticized the lack of progress in certain areas, specifically in Warri South Local Government.

“Nigeria is a complex nation, and so is Delta State. We have voted for Sheriff, and he is now in office. We do not fight those we have put in power; rather, we offer our support.”

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Turning to the issue of local politics, Awani expressed concern that certain politicians in Warri South were failing to deliver on their promises. “Politicians who can’t attract a single vote cannot be considered true leaders. This time, we won’t accept it.”

The group expressed discontent with what they see as insufficient benefits from the current administration, despite promises of development.

“Politicians in Warri South who claim to control the votes are not living up to expectations. We, the strongest grassroots group in the area, have yet to see the promised dividends of Oborevwori’s leadership,” Awani declared. “We’ve been present in every phase, from peeling yam to grinding pepper, to roasting the goat, yet we have not seen our share of Ukodo (yam porridge).”

Awani voiced concerns over an alleged suspension letter that was shared on social media without proper procedure, stating, “Politics is a game of numbers, PVCs, and thumbprints. We are fully aware of our rights. If this undemocratic suspension is not retracted, we will seek legal actions. No one has the right to suspend someone without committing an offense”.

In the run-up to the 2027 elections, Awani urged those with the political strength to step forward, asserting that the collective goal was a unified and prosperous Nigeria.

Addressing Governor Oborevwori directly, Awani advised him to disregard unhelpful sycophants, urging, “Do not listen to expired panadol that cannot cure a headache. The people coming to you in Asaba lack grassroots support. The era of ‘monkey work, baboon dey chop’ is over.”

This call for accountability and equal distribution of resources underscores growing frustration among grassroots leaders in the region, who are calling for greater attention to grassroots development.