UGHELLI, DELTA STATE — A House of Representatives aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Dr. Olotu Akpodiete, has dismissed attempts to link him to political developments outside the party through the circulation of an old photograph showing him with Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Akpodiete described the action as a calculated smear campaign orchestrated by individuals he referred to as “political tourists” seeking to create confusion within the party ahead of future political contests.
In a statement issued in Ughelli, the PDP chieftain said the circulation of the photograph was a desperate effort to question his commitment to the party despite his longstanding membership and contributions to its growth in Delta State.
According to him, he joined the PDP in 2018 and has remained loyal to the party through various political developments, including periods of internal challenges and realignments. He maintained that his political record speaks for itself and cannot be undermined by what he described as cheap blackmail.
Akpodiete stressed that he remained committed to the ideals, unity, and progress of the PDP, insisting that no campaign of misinformation would alter his political convictions or his relationship with party members across the state.
He noted that his contributions to the party have been particularly visible in the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, where he has actively supported party-building efforts and grassroots mobilisation over the years.
The aspirant argued that the circulation of an archived photograph should not be interpreted as evidence of disloyalty, emphasizing that political interactions and public appearances are common in democratic environments.
He further stated that those behind the campaign lacked genuine commitment to the growth of the PDP and were instead focused on creating unnecessary distractions within the party.
Addressing party faithful, Akpodiete called on leaders, women, youths, and supporters of the PDP across the U3 Federal Constituency to remain calm and focused. He urged members not to allow external distractions or internal mischief to weaken their collective resolve as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.
He also emphasized the importance of unity within the opposition party, arguing that cohesion and strategic planning would be critical to strengthening the PDP’s chances in future electoral contests.
Political observers say the statement reflects growing political activity in Delta State as parties and aspirants position themselves ahead of the next election cycle. Discussions surrounding party loyalty, alliances, and political realignments have increasingly become part of the broader political conversation in the state.
Akpodiete concluded by reaffirming his allegiance to the PDP, describing the party as his political home and expressing confidence that its members would remain united in pursuing their shared objectives for the benefit of the people of Delta State.
