ASABA – Dr. Hilary Obioma Ibegbulem, a long-standing aide and confidant to the immediate past Governor of Delta State, has issued a strongly worded statement debunking social media narratives that seek to compare his political relevance with that of his mentor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
In a statement released to the press, Ibegbulem described the trending publications as “mischievous,” “profoundly hurtful,” and “entirely unacceptable,” maintaining that his relationship with the former Governor transcends typical political associations.
The former Principal Secretary to the Governor took a trip down memory lane to highlight the depth of his bond with Okowa, which spans over 24 years. He noted that his journey began in 2000 when Okowa facilitated his entry into the civil service immediately after his youth service. Since then, Ibegbulem has served under the former Governor in various capacities, including seven years as Personal Assistant, four years as Special Assistant during Okowa’s tenure as SSG, four years as a Senior Legislative Aide in the Senate, and eight years as Principal Secretary during his governorship.
“Everything I am in public service today is inseparable from his mentorship, his patience, and his confidence in me,” Ibegbulem stated.
Addressing the attempt by certain individuals to pitch his popularity against Okowa’s, Ibegbulem used a familial metaphor to define his stance, stating that “a son is not in competition with his father” and “a student does not measure himself against his teacher.” He dismissed the idea of personal ambition at the expense of his benefactor, declaring his loyalty as “total, unwavering, and non-negotiable.”
“If loyalty is foolishness, then I choose to be foolishly loyal. I will never trade gratitude for ambition, nor will I exchange honour for opportunism,” he added, emphasizing that betrayal and disloyalty are values he does not possess.
The statement serves as a definitive response to political commentators and social media influencers attempting to create a rift within the Okowa political family. Ibegbulem concluded by reaffirming his commitment to standing by his mentor and the legacy they built together over two decades of public service.
