By News Editor
The Executive Director, Finance and Administration (EDFA), Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Oghenekome Okpobor has advised the newly elected leadership of Isoko Development Union (IDU) Youth Wing to embrace inclusive and transparent leadership in their tenure.
Okpobor gave the advice when he received IDU Youth Wing, Executive Team, led by its President Comrade Joel Emeni, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Commission’s headquarters.
The visit was part of the youth leaders’ efforts to seek guidance and collaboration following their recent election.
Okpobor, a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), congratulated them and acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the polls.
He described the outcome as a product of a free and fair process.
Okpobor urged the youth executives to demonstrate magnanimity in victory by reaching out to former opponents and dissenting voices.
“Reach out to people who did not support you — even the leaders that didn’t. Don’t throw anyone away, because that would create division in Isoko nation. Be the bigger person,” he advised.
Okpobor emphasized the importance of rewarding loyalty and dedication, reminding the new leaders not to neglect those who supported them during their campaign.
“Reconciliation is key, but never forget those who truly laboured for you. Always look back to remember how you got to where you are,” he added.
A known advocate for youth development, Okpobor pledged full support for the IDU Youth Wing’s programmes, particularly those aimed at enlightenment and empowerment.
“I’ll work closely with you. I want your tenure to be the best. I’m a youth too — if you fail, I have failed,” he said.
He further cautioned against internal exclusion and lack of transparency, particularly in financial matters.
“When it’s time for key meetings, especially financial ones, the numbers reduce. That doesn’t breed transparency. Be open. Carry your team along,”
Okpobor encouraged the leadership to build strategic relationships with other youth organizations like the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) for unified progress.
“Let INYA hold their body and IDU Youth Wing hold theirs, but always work together for the good of our youths. We are one Isoko.”
He also urged them to immediately begin engagement with key political figures, including Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko and commissioners from Isoko North and South, stressing the importance of unity and stakeholder collaboration.
In his remarks, the Pioneer President of IDU Youth Wing, Comrade Ede Hyacinth Ewariezi, expressed deep appreciation to Okpobor for his consistent support.
“You helped the IDU Youth Wing come back. We’d forever be indebted to you,” he said.
On his part, the newly elected President, Comrade Joel Emeni, described the visit as both humbling and divine.
“Today, we are proud to have you as a major helper. Without mincing words, this is a divine mandate. For you to adopt me as your own — I am deeply grateful,” he said, promising to lead with transparency and deliver positive change for Isoko youth.
The visit marks a renewed commitment to youth development and leadership mentorship in Isoko
