Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has distanced himself from emerging political tussles in Ughelli South Local Government Area ahead of the 2027–2031 electoral cycle, declaring that he has no interest in the contest for local leadership positions within the area.
Izeze, a former principal officer of the Delta State House of Assembly, made the clarification in a strongly worded statement issued in the early hours of Sunday, January 11, 2026, in which he called on political actors and the general public to “cease and desist” from associating his name with any of the contending groups or interests jostling for influence in the local government.
“I belong to none of the conflicting groups and I have no dog in the fight,” he stated, adding that his focus remains on his professional responsibilities, his community, and civil society engagements rather than local political rivalries.
The former lawmaker explained that his decision to step back from local government politics was informed by past experiences, particularly his involvement in a previous chairmanship race which, according to him, exposed deep-seated challenges within the political space of the LGA.
He noted that the experience taught him hard lessons about assumptions, justice, fairness and equity in grassroots politics, prompting a deliberate resolve to limit his political engagement strictly to his ward and community.
Izeze also dismissed speculations linking him to either of the two rival political blocs reportedly operating within Ughelli South, stressing that he would not go to war with individuals on either side, some of whom he acknowledged having long-standing personal relationships with.
While refraining from naming individuals, he accused certain political actors of practising politics driven by personal financial interests, intimidation and manipulation of party structures, which he described as inimical to democratic growth.
He further recounted past encounters in which he claimed to have been subjected to blackmail and smear campaigns during his earlier political aspirations, experiences he said reinforced his resolve to stay clear of such conflicts.
On the other side of the divide, Izeze equally rejected any association with another pressure group in the LGA, stating that he had never enjoyed political support from its leadership and had fundamental disagreements with what he described as transactional politics.
Clarifying his current political priorities, Izeze said his only electoral interest remains the success of Governor Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Francis Orowhedor Oborevwori, whom he described as the sole leader recognised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) constitution in Delta State.
He added that he is presently coordinating a civil society organisation, The Foostodey, through which empowerment programmes are being implemented in support of the governor’s administration.
Looking ahead, Izeze stated that if amendments to the Electoral Act restore his status as a statutory party delegate, he would exercise his vote strictly based on conviction, stressing that his vote would not be influenced by inducement.
He also declared support for Hon. Rev. Ejiroghene Francis Waive for the House of Representatives, citing Waive’s consistent support and what he described as quality representation.
Izeze concluded by urging residents of Ughelli South Local Government Area to disregard rumours suggesting his alignment with any local political faction, reiterating that he considers himself “a servant-in-perpetuity” rather than a political leader.
