Hilary Obi Ibegbulem (PhD), a long-time aide and close confidant of former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has firmly dismissed reports and social media commentaries comparing his political popularity and relevance with that of his former boss, describing such narratives as “mischievous, hurtful, and unacceptable.”
In a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, Ibegbulem said any attempt to pitch him against Okowa betrays a fundamental misunderstanding of his political journey, values, and personal convictions, stressing that he owes his growth in public service to over two decades of mentorship under the former governor.
Tracing his relationship with Okowa back to 2001, Ibegbulem highlighted his years of service in various capacities, including as Personal Assistant, Special Assistant during Okowa’s tenure as Secretary to the State Government, Senior Legislative Aide in the Senate, and Principal Secretary throughout Okowa’s eight-year governorship.
According to him, Okowa not only provided him with opportunities but also shaped his character and career, beginning with his employment into the civil service in 2000 shortly after national service.
“To compare me with him in popularity or political relevance is to forget that a son does not compete with his father, nor does a student measure himself against his teacher,” Ibegbulem said, emphasizing that his place has always been by Okowa’s side.
He declared his loyalty to the former governor as “total, unwavering, and non-negotiable,” insisting that gratitude, honour, and loyalty remain core values he will never sacrifice for ambition or political opportunism.
Ibegbulem concluded by reaffirming his solidarity with Okowa, vowing to stand by him and the legacy they built together, while rejecting any insinuation of rivalry or disloyalty.
