For decades, the name Great Ogboru has remained synonymous with political persistence in Delta State. If resilience in the face of repeated electoral disappointments were to earn medals, the Delta-born businessman and politician would undoubtedly rank among the most decorated in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Little wonder political watchers often joke that if there were a prize for the nation’s longest governorship contestant, Ogboru would have long secured it. In fact, one might jokingly suggest that the Guinness World Records should cast a glance in his direction.
Yet, for the man fondly called the “People’s General,” the governorship ambition has remained more of an elusive dream than a political reality.
Since the return of democracy in 1999, Ogboru has consistently positioned himself as one of the strongest opposition figures in Delta politics, relentlessly chasing the state’s top seat. In 2003, he made his first serious attempt under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy. Though hopeful and buoyed by growing support, victory slipped through his fingers.
Not one to surrender easily, he returned in 2007, this time under the banner of the Democratic People’s Party, mounting what many considered a formidable challenge. Again, the outcome did not favour him. In 2011, he remained undeterred, taking another shot at the coveted office, only for destiny to once again deny him the keys to Government House.
