A Delta-based lawyer, Kingsley Akpederin, has criticised governance outcomes in Delta State and expressed support for the governorship ambition of Chris Iyovwaye of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 election.
Speaking with journalists in Asaba on Monday, Akpederin argued that despite the state’s strong revenue profile, many residents continue to face economic hardship and limited opportunities.
He said the 2027 governorship election would provide an opportunity for voters to assess governance performance and demand broader economic outcomes.
Probing the impact of public spending, Akpederin said available resources should translate into measurable improvements in residents’ welfare and quality of life.
“How can the report card of a state with huge allocations and internally generated revenue be roads and a few bridges?” he asked.
He also raised concerns over workers’ welfare, arguing that economic realities in the state should be reflected in policies that directly affect residents.
While backing Iyovwaye’s candidacy, Akpederin said the NDC candidate represents what he described as an alternative political direction centred on economic development, job creation and investment in productive sectors.
According to him, governance priorities should include industrial growth, support for agriculture, improved energy development and policies aimed at expanding economic opportunities.
Akpederin further argued that voter expectations are increasingly shifting toward performance-based assessment of political leadership.
He also criticised what he described as entrenched political interests and called for governance that places greater emphasis on public benefit and long-term economic growth.
