‘No Secret Deal’: Erue Defends Joel-Onowakpo, Slams Political Smear Campaign
Erue Rejects Allegations
FORMER Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jones Ode Erue, has dismissed claims of a secret political pact involving Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, describing the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Erue said the narrative was a fabrication designed to undermine the growing political profile of the Delta South lawmaker.
Questions Over Credibility of Claims
Erue challenged the authenticity of the alleged agreement, questioning how a supposed “secret pact” could suddenly become public knowledge without any verifiable evidence.
He queried the absence of documentation or credible sources, insisting that the allegations were built on speculation rather than facts.
“If it was truly a secret pact, why is it suddenly in the public domain?” he asked, highlighting what he described as inconsistencies in the claims.
Warning Against Divisive Politics
The APC chieftain cautioned against the use of ethnic sentiments and political blackmail, warning that such narratives could fuel unnecessary tensions among communities.
He specifically rejected claims suggesting a coordinated effort by Ijaw political actors to marginalise the Isoko ethnic group, describing the allegation as “false, divisive, and inflammatory.”
Erue emphasised the importance of cross-ethnic collaboration in politics, noting that alliances should be seen as a tool for development rather than suspicion.
Call for Unity and Issue-Based Politics
Reaffirming his support for Senator Joel-Onowakpo, Erue said political discourse should focus on performance and governance rather than smear campaigns.
He urged stakeholders in Delta South to reject divisive politics and embrace unity, peace, and collective development.
According to him, the future of the region depends on cooperation rather than “a marketplace of blackmail and opportunism.”
