In a recent turn of events, Engr. Felix Akpoyibo, a notable chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leader of the Tinubu Shettima Universal Initiative (TSUI), has called on the federal government, under President Bola Tinubu, to investigate Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, following his speech at the wedding of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s son in Asaba, Delta State.
The wedding, held on December 21, 2024, at the Living Faith Church in Asaba, witnessed Minister Keyamo representing President Tinubu. During his address, Keyamo lauded Governor Oborevwori, describing him as a “bridge builder” and a “model political leader.” This commendation, however, has ignited sharp criticism from Engr. Akpoyibo, who views such praise as unfounded, especially considering the serious allegations of corruption and mismanagement surrounding Governor Oborevwori’s administration and his predecessor, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
Akpoyibo, who is known for his vocal stance on political accountability, pointed to allegations of massive financial misappropriation during Okowa’s tenure, claiming that N1.3 trillion earmarked for state development was misused. The New Delta Coalition (NDC) has accused the former governor of betraying public trust, alleging that the funds were diverted for personal gain, including investments in properties in Abuja and Asaba.
Furthermore, Akpoyibo contends that under Governor Oborevwori, the state has seen little improvement despite receiving an additional N239.6 billion in 13% derivation funds between June 2023 and July 2024. This, according to Akpoyibo, underscores the continuation of poor governance and financial mismanagement.
In light of these concerns, Akpoyibo has expressed disbelief over Minister Keyamo’s public praise for Governor Oborevwori. He is now calling for a thorough investigation into Keyamo's statements, as well as the actions of both Governor Oborevwori and his predecessor, to ensure transparency and accountability in Delta State.
The call for a probe raises important questions about the state of governance and the need for responsible leadership in Delta. It also underscores the growing frustrations among some political stakeholders who believe that the leadership must be held accountable for both past and current failures to better serve the people.
In a further statement, Akpoyibo questioned the motivations behind Keyamo’s praise, suggesting that the Minister’s actions are tied to his personal ambitions. "This is Festus Keyamo, the man who wants to lead the APC in Delta State through the back door. This is the Minister who has no connection to his roots in Delta State. He is the major beneficiary of the labor of all genuine APC members and supporters in Delta State, yet he is hell-bent on scuttling the chances of the APC in Delta State to give the incumbent PDP governor a smooth ride in 2027," Akpoyibo claimed.
Akpoyibo also criticized the political maneuvering of the PDP in Delta, stating that in their desperate attempt to rig the 2023 elections in favor of Atiku, they invalidated the 25% votes that President Tinubu rightfully earned from the people of Delta State. He further called on Governor Oborevwori and former Governor Okowa to stop associating themselves with President Tinubu, whose victory was a collective triumph, supported by Nigerians across all 36 states. Akpoyibo added, “The PDP, Sheriff, and Okowa will lose again in 2027 because the people of Delta will not be fooled again. They have seen through their corrupt practices.”
According to Akpoyibo, Keyamo’s praise for Oborevwori creates a paradox, as it runs counter to the APC's broader goals for the state, further fueling suspicions about the Minister’s political motives.
This controversy has stirred broader discussions among political observers, with many speculating that Keyamo's ambitions for leadership in Delta may be influencing his public statements and alliances, potentially undermining APC's efforts in the state.
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