By Oghenefejiro Emado
05, April 2026
A prominent stakeholder in Ughelli South Constituency, Professor G. G. Darah, has dismissed claims that Hon. Festus Utuama has emerged as a consensus candidate for the 2027 Delta State House of Assembly election, describing the reports as false and misleading.
Prof. Darah, a former Chief of Staff, Government House, in a letter dated April 4, 2026, and addressed to Sheriff Oborevwori, stated that no recognized political group or caucus within the constituency had endorsed Utuama for a second term, warning that such claims could undermine democratic principles.
He described the purported endorsement as a “dangerous fabrication,” insisting that it does not reflect the position of the people of Ughelli South.
According to him, the idea of imposing a consensus candidate without due consultation runs contrary to established democratic norms.
Prof. Darah further criticised Utuama’s performance in the Delta State House of Assembly since his election in 2023, alleging that the lawmaker has failed to make significant contributions through motions, bills, or constituency projects.
He maintained that the constituency cannot point to any impactful programmes or initiatives facilitated by the lawmaker, adding that his representation has fallen short of expectations when compared to past legislators from the area.
Highlighting the constituency’s legislative history, Darah referenced former lawmakers such as P. K. Tabiowo, Pius Akpor Ewherido, Talib Tebite, and Reuben Izeze, noting that they left behind records of notable performance and effective representation.
He urged Governor Oborevwori to disregard what he described as the activities of “rumour mongers and paid agents,” emphasizing that the people of Ughelli South would follow due process in selecting their candidate when the time comes.
“The Ughelli South Constituency has not put forward Hon. Festus Utuama as a consensus candidate for the 2027 election,” Darah stated, reiterating the commitment of constituents to democratic procedures in choosing their representative.
