A socio-political group, Ogoni Peoples Forum (OPF) has called on the electorate in Ogoni and Rivers South East Senatorial District to cast their votes for Senator Barinada Mpigi and Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dekor, both of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday, February 25, 2023 National Assembly elections.
While Senator Mpigi is seeking reelection to represent the Rivers South-East Senatorial District, Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor is also seeking a return to the House of Representatives to represent the good people of Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency.
The Ogoni Peoples Forum (OPF) who made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of their meeting in Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government Area on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, described the duo of Mpigi and Dekor as tried, tested and trusted Ogoni leaders who have shown capacity, proven integrity, dedication and loyalty and passion for the wellbeing of Ogoni people and the Rivers South East Senatorial District in general.
In the communiqué which was signed by OPF’s Secretary, Comrade John Wiko, the group urged the electorates to vote for those that ‘knows the road’, describing the duo as great leaders who knows the way to Ogoni progress and prosperity.
“Don’t be misled by the enemies of Ogoni people. Senator Barry Mpigi has distinguished himself in the Red Chamber and has championed the interest of Ogoni people through sponsoring people-oriented bills to better the cause of the Ogoni man and woman.
“Dum Dekor, on the other hand is the Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities. He has been fighting relentlessly to bring the attention of the federal government and international community to the plight of Ogonis who are being impacted by the activities of multinational oil and gas companies”, the group stated.
The Ogoni Peoples Forum further described Mpigi and Dekor as patriotic Ogonis who are desirous to give back to Ogoni through diligent and productive representation, adding that a vote for them is a vote for peaceful, progressive, purposeful and united Ogoni.
“Senator Mpigi and Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor are exceptional gentlemen, with large hearts for which a great number of Ogonis have benefited immensely. Ogoni need continuity to consolidate on the massive gains achieved through their representation”, the group submitted.
The Ogoni group also appealed to the electorates to be well guided and to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner during the polls, urging them to resist offers from enemies of Ogoni people to compromise their votes.