A former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, has mourned the death of prominent Niger Delta leader, Dele Cole, describing him as a committed advocate of resource control and true federalism.
Cole, who was born on August 4, 1940, in Abonnema, in the Kalabari Kingdom of present-day Rivers State, died in London at the age of 86.
In a statement issued on Sunday and titled “PDC: So Long My Leader,” Ibori paid tribute to the late statesman, praising his unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta struggle and his determination to defend the interests of his people.
He noted that Cole played a significant role in the agitation for true federalism and resource control, adding that his loyalty to the region remained firm even while he served as a Special Adviser in the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“He was a prominent leader in the Niger Delta who stood firmly with us in our struggle for True Federalism and Resource Control. Even while serving as a Special Adviser in President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, he remained committed to his people and their legitimate aspirations,” Ibori said.
The former governor said Cole’s decision to stand with his people demonstrated his courage and dedication to the region, even when his position could have political consequences.
According to him, the late leader’s political choices were guided by his conviction that the aspirations of the Niger Delta people deserved to be defended.
“His actions reflected deep loyalty to his roots and an unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta cause. At a time when such a stance could carry significant political costs, he chose to stand with his people,” he added.
Ibori described Cole’s contributions to Nigeria’s political development, particularly the struggle for a fairer federal structure and greater control of the region’s resources, as worthy of recognition.
He said the late leader’s commitment to the Niger Delta cause would remain part of his enduring legacy.
The former governor also urged Cole’s family to take solace in God amid the loss, assuring them that his contributions to the country and the region would not be forgotten.
“His contributions to the development of Nigeria, especially the Niger Delta region, will forever be cherished,” Ibori said.
Cole’s death has marked the loss of a prominent figure associated with the Niger Delta’s political aspirations and the campaign for resource control and true federalism.