Chief James Onanefe Ibori has been described as the father of the modern Delta State and a valiant fighter for the interests of the Niger Delta people.
In a message to celebrate the first Fourth Republic Governor of Delta State, immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, said Chief Ibori, who turned 66 years Sunday, became the rallying point for the emergence of the Niger Delta from prolonged years of exploitation and neglect to a region that began getting its due.
Omo-Agege, in a statement signed by Sunny Areh, Media Adviser to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, said Ibori remained the anchor for the march to a greater Niger Delta.
“Today’s leaders in Niger Delta owe it to Chief Ibori for his focus and doggedness in the resource control struggle that eventually led to what the region gets today as derivation fund.
“It is not yet a finished job, but the leaders have the accomplishments of Chief Ibori in that regard to build on,” Omo-Agege said in his birthday message to Ibori.
“I congratulate His Excellency on his 66th birthday. He has done a lot for the people, but a lot of battles are ahead to be fought and won.
“He remains the anchor for the march to a greater Delta State and Niger Delta.
“I pray the Most High God grants him long life in excellent health as he continues to contribute towards the progress of Delta State and our country, Nigeria.”
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