The recent article by Aghogho Orotomah, titled “Who Stays, Who Goes: Appraising Re-election Chances of Delta Senators,” is an expression of the writer’s opinion.
However, it contains several inaccuracies regarding Distinguished Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District.
It is important to provide the public with a more accurate reflection of his performance, which has been both strategic and impactful.
1. Legislative Contributions
The claim that the Senator has not passed any bill is misleading. Senator Dafinone has sponsored three bills, all of which have successfully passed First Reading and are progressing through various stages in the Senate. These bills are focused on long-term national development and are receiving due legislative attention.
2. Empowerment and Financial Relief: Over 2,500 constituents across Delta Central have benefited from empowerment initiatives designed to boost local businesses and livelihoods. Additionally, the Senator facilitated a conditional cash transfer program through the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, enabling thousands of constituents to receive N50,000 each, a targeted intervention to cushion economic hardship and stimulate small-scale enterprise.
3. Agricultural Development and Food Security: In line with national food security goals, the Senator launched a two-day Agriculture and Food Security Training Programme, equipping farmers with modern techniques to increase productivity and improve sustainability in rural communities.
4. Revival of Sapele Port: One of Senator Dafinone’s flagship interventions is the push for the revival of Sapele Port. His direct engagement with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the supervising Ministry has led to the inclusion of funding for the port’s rehabilitation in the 2025 national budget under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
5. Infrastructure Advocacy – Gamon Bridge: Through consistent advocacy with the Federal Ministry of Works, the Gamon Bridge linking Mosogar (Ethiope West LGA) and Okirighwre (Sapele LGA) has undergone full repair. This vital bridge now enhances access along the Benin–Mosogar–Sapele route and improves intra-regional connectivity.
6. Protection of Civil Liberties and Traditional Institutions: The Senator played a key role in securing the release of Pa Dennis Okugbaye, who had been detained by the military since August 2024. Similarly, he intervened in the matter of HRM King Clement Ikolo of Ewu Kingdom, facilitating his release and standing surety for his lawful conduct. These actions underscore his commitment to justice, community protection, and institutional respect.
7. Employment and Career Progression: Senator Dafinone has helped secure job placements and promotions for numerous constituents in key Federal institutions, including:
• Nigerian Police Force (NPF)
• Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
• Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
• National Assembly Service Commission
• Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)
• Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE)
• Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP)
• Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)
• Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)
This reflects his commitment to youth empowerment and institutional access for Delta Central citizens.
8. Education and Scholarship Support: Dozens of students from Delta Central have benefited from federal scholarship awards facilitated through the Senator’s office—affirming his strong belief in education as the foundation for generational progress.
9. Ongoing Constituency Projects: A wide range of 2024 constituency projects are actively being implemented across all eight LGAs in Delta Central, including:
• Construction of the Egbo Uhurie Railway Station (Ughelli South)
• A 50-bed hostel at FUPRE
• Reconstruction and equipping of ICT centres in Ughelli North, Udu, Uvwie, Okpe, and Ethiope East
• Donation of an 18-seater bus to Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe
• Upgrades to the Electrical Department at Sapele Technical College
• Rehabilitation of Sapele Prison (sewage systems, solar lights)
• Installation of transformers and solar-powered streetlights across multiple communities.
Implementation of projects contained in the 2025 national budget has not yet commenced. Once execution begins, Delta Central is expected to benefit even more significantly, as further infrastructure and development initiatives unfold.
10. Clarifying the Misrepresentation: The article’s emphasis on the POS empowerment program, without acknowledging the broader, multi-sector interventions by the Senator is both selective and misleading. It is important to note that the POS component was a direct request from constituents seeking accessible, small-scale business support. This initiative was one among many designed to address the unique needs of different groups across Delta Central. Highlighting it in isolation fails to reflect the full scale and scope of the Senator’s strategic, multi-sector empowerment efforts spanning infrastructure, security, education, welfare, and legislative advocacy.
Conclusion
Distinguished Senator Ede Dafinone has focused on delivering measurable results, not political spectacle. His track record speaks to quiet competence, inclusive governance, and a genuine commitment to the development of Delta Central. As a representative of the Urhobo nation and Delta Central at large, he remains dedicated to the values of equity, service, and excellence.
With the implementation of 2025 budgetary projects commencing soon, the people of Delta Central can expect even greater impact and broader development outcomes in the months ahead. Senator Ede Dafinone’s work continues with purpose, vision, and unwavering dedication.
Signed:
Edesiri Ofomala
Special Assistant on Media to Distinguished Senator Ede Dafinone
Saturday, July 19, 2025.