“‘Bad Product’ Remark Backfires: Orubebe Faces Backlash Over Senator Joel Attack”

By Passman Akpos

A fresh political storm has erupted in Delta South following controversial comments allegedly made by former Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Godsday Orubebe, against serving senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas.

In a strongly worded reaction, Ambassador Timi Coleman, who identified himself as a key participant and spokesperson during the senator’s 2023 campaign, accused the former minister of making “misleading and unfounded” statements in a video currently circulating on social media.

The video, reportedly recorded during a visit by Pastor Michael Didien, also known as Ejele, to Orubebe’s country home in Ogbobagbene on April 25, 2026, captures the elder statesman criticizing the senator’s conduct and campaign contributions.

Disputed Campaign Claims

One of the central points of contention is Orubebe’s claim that he financially supported the senator’s campaign far more than the candidate himself.

Coleman firmly rejected this assertion, describing it as “completely lacking in factual basis.” He maintained that, as campaign spokesman, he accompanied the senator across multiple communities, including parts of Bayelsa State, and never witnessed the alleged financial contributions by the former minister.

He challenged Orubebe to provide verifiable evidence of any such payments, including details of beneficiaries and locations.

Contradictions Over Political Relationship

The former minister also reportedly claimed that Senator Joel failed to maintain contact with him for over a year after winning the election—a statement Coleman described as “surprising and inaccurate.

According to him, both men had multiple interactions in Abuja and Delta State during post-election party reconciliation efforts, particularly within the orbit of former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege.

Political observers note that Orubebe’s relationship with Omo-Agege later deteriorated, leading to realignments within the Delta APC and speculation about his evolving alliances, including reported outreach to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Criticism of ‘Personal Attacks’

Coleman further condemned what he described as “personality attacks” and “politics of bitterness,” arguing that leaders of Orubebe’s stature should promote unity rather than division.

He expressed disappointment over remarks allegedly branding the senator as a “bad product,” calling such language unbecoming of a respected elder and cleric.

“Elders are expected to guide, not disparage,” Coleman stated, warning that such rhetoric could set a poor example for younger politicians.

Ethnic and Political Undercurrents

The controversy has also stirred debate over ethnic balancing in Delta South politics, particularly comments questioning support patterns among Ijaw and Itsekiri political actors.

Coleman suggested that backing candidates outside one’s ethnic bloc, while not inherently wrong, must be carefully weighed within the broader context of political equity in the region.

Call for Restraint

As tensions rise, political stakeholders are urging caution to prevent further escalation. Analysts say the dispute highlights deeper fractures within party ranks ahead of future elections.

Coleman concluded by reaffirming support for Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, describing him as “tested and delivering,” while calling on leaders to abandon divisive rhetoric and focus on constructive engagement.

The former minister has yet to issue an official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.