KOKO/Nigeria: Koko, the traditional headquarters of Warri North Local Government, was set aglow on Saturday, September 6, 2025, as jubilant indigenes celebrated the appointment of their son, Dr. Orishegbubemi Maurice Ojo-Ede, as Executive Assistant (Political) to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. What began as a reception turned into a political rallying call, with chants of loyalty to the governor and pledges for the 2027 elections.
The day started at the Koko Community Management Authority Hall, where Ojo-Ede was hosted by community leaders led by Dr. Chris Eburajolo, before proceeding to the expansive Nana Palace field. There, a mammoth crowd waving banners and chanting solidarity songs welcomed him. The atmosphere was electric, with residents describing the appointment as a victory for Koko and Warri North.
“This appointment is not just for Maurice, it is for all of us,” declared Comrade Engineer Toju Itsesagba. “The governor has shown wisdom. Politics is local, and you can see how our people have embraced this choice. With this, 2027 is already secured.”
Ojo-Ede’s track record of service underpinned the excitement. Through his OMO Foundation, he has registered thousands of youths for WAEC and JAMB, awarded scholarships, provided boreholes, and distributed food and cash during the last Yuletide. “He has been touching lives before this office,” said Mrs. Adanu Oritse. “Now he has the governor’s backing. That means more development for Warri North.”
Taking the microphone, Ojo-Ede was visibly emotional. “I didn’t know the community had this much love for me,” he said. “This appointment signifies a sense of belonging for Koko. The governor saw what we are doing through the OMO Foundation and decided to bring us closer. That is why the people have resolved to do their INEC registration and stand solidly behind the governor come 2027. We will also support our president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That is our pledge.”
He further described the collaboration between the OMO Foundation and the MORE Agenda as “an A-plus synergy.” In his words: “This partnership will bring unprecedented development to Delta. We are nationwide, but Delta is home. With the governor and our foundation working hand in hand, Koko and Warri North will be transformed.”
Community leaders echoed this sentiment. Dr. Chris Eburajolo praised both the governor and Ojo-Ede, saying, “The MORE Agenda is truly working. With people like Maurice, the grassroots will continue to feel government directly.” Another resident, Edward Daibo, went further: “2027 is settled. The governor will see the votes of gratitude from Warri North.”
In a symbolic gesture of empowerment, Ojo-Ede donated two-way radios to security agencies, fishing gear to local fishermen, and helmets and vests to commercial riders. “When you hear his name, you think progress,” said Collins Abureme, also known as Gabalushi. “This choice by the governor shows he knows what he’s doing. Maurice is the right man at the right time.”
The climax of the celebration saw Ojo-Ede visiting the chairman of Warri North, Hon. Festus Ashima, where he also received an award of recognition from Rero TV. Cultural displays lit up the evening, but the political message was clear: Koko has embraced Ojo-Ede as their voice in government, and the governor’s MORE Agenda has found a strong grassroots anchor ahead of 2027.
