Delta State: Nigerian Professor from UK University Selected as ADC Candidate

Dr. Emmanuel Unuafe, a 45-year-old lecturer at Arden University in the United Kingdom, has emerged as the gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Delta State, after being chosen as the party's consensus candidate at a primary election held in Asaba on Friday.

n

The primary election was overseen by Chairman of the ADC Screening And Primary Election Committee in Delta State, Mr. Jerry Ojale, who announced Unuafe as the winner, stating that he met the party's requirements without any opposition.

n

According to Ojale, the party's guidelines and constitution were followed, and despite several people showing interest, only Unuafe qualified after the screening process.

n

Ojale also addressed speculation about factions within the state's APC, stating that there is only one recognized Delta State chairman, Engr Austin Okolie, whose name is listed on the INEC portal.

n

He emphasized that there is only one legitimate Delta State Secretariat, located in Asaba, and that he is unaware of any factions.

n

Chairman of the party, Austin Okolie, described the success of the primary election as a new beginning for Delta State.

n

In his victory remarks, Unuafe expressed his commitment to creating a viable rescue plan to transform Delta State into an economic powerhouse that improves the lives of its people.

n

Unuafe shared his personal story, stating that he was not born with a "silver spoon" and that the party's trust in him is a testament to his vision for the state, which includes diversifying the economy from oil and gas to agriculture.

n

He highlighted the benefits of a new law that exempts agro businesses from paying tax, which would allow those investing in agriculture to have more money to reinvest.

n

Unuafe emphasized his commitment to ensuring that anyone, regardless of their background, can aspire to leadership positions in Delta State, stating that he does not believe in the concept of "godfathers" and does not have one himself.

n

To improve the economy, Unuafe plans to expand opportunities in the blue economy in riverine Delta, in addition to investing in rural areas, primary healthcare, and agro export promotion to create more jobs.

n

He expressed his pain at the collapse of once-thriving businesses in Delta, such as the Asaba textile mill and Delta Glass, which were once a source of pride for the state.

n

Unuafe also plans to leverage his experience as a football referee in the UK to build foreign collaborations and boost sports talent discovery in Delta.

n

He stressed the importance of digitizing government operations to reduce leakages and increase revenue, which would allow for improved worker welfare and living standards.

n

Unuafe shared his personal experience of visiting a court to sign documents and being saddened by the poor condition of the judiciary, stating that his administration would prioritize the well-being of workers.