A REJOINDER: OPUORU HITS OBIRE — “STOP BLACKMAILING ME, YOU’RE NOT FROM WARRI SOUTH”
Ordinarily, we would have ignored the online report published by Fresh Angle Newspaper on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, credited to Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru and captioned as above.
However, in the interest of setting the record straight and preventing the public from being misled, we find it necessary to respond.
It is important to note that making false accusations with the intent to damage another person’s reputation constitutes slander. Such conduct ultimately erodes credibility and public respect. This is the unfortunate display witnessed in Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru’s remarks at a gathering in Warri South, as reported.
For the avoidance of doubt, Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire has never, at any time, blackmailed or defamed Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru—whether before, during, or after the 2023 Delta State House of Assembly elections. We therefore challenge Hon. Opuoru to provide verifiable evidence—audio, visual, or written—to substantiate his claims.
Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire is a man of proven character, whose moral standing and social disposition are far above petty engagements such as blackmail. The claim that he is not from Warri South is not only false but also reflects a troubling lack of knowledge about the community and its people.
For clarity, Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire is a bona fide indigene of Otovwodo (Agbassa), Agbarha Community in Warri South Local Government Area, with maternal roots in the Omamoh family. He was born and raised in Otovwodo, attended Caveginia Primary School and Essi College, Warri, and later obtained his degree from Delta State University, Abraka. At no point has he been an outsider to the community he represents.
As a true son of the soil, Hon. Obire has served his people in various leadership capacities from a young age. He was Youth Chairman of Otovwodo (Agbassa) Community for four years, after which he served two tenures as National Youth President of the Agbarha National Youth Council.
In recognition of his exemplary leadership and contributions, he was elevated to the position of Oghwuvwie (Traditional Prime Minister) of Otovwodo (Agbassa) Community. His outstanding service further earned him the role of Deputy Unuovwodo (Deputy King’s Representative), a position he still holds.
Hon. Obire’s commitment to the progress of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom and the broader Warri Urhobo cause is well established. His contributions have earned him widespread respect and support across Warri South Constituency II.
This strong community trust culminated in his election as Member representing Warri South Constituency II in the Delta State House of Assembly in 2023, where he defeated the then incumbent, Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru.
It is therefore reasonable to ask: how could someone allegedly “not from the community” rise through such sensitive and respected positions over decades and ultimately be elected into public office? The answer is clear, such a claim is baseless and untenable.
Contrary to his allegations, it is evident that Hon. Opuoru is the one engaging in persistent attempts to malign Hon. Obire through unfounded narratives. His recent statements appear driven by frustration rather than facts.
It is unfortunate that, instead of addressing substantive issues, Hon. Opuoru chose to focus on personal attacks. One must ask: what relevance do such claims have to the event where they were made? This further underscores why the people of Warri South Constituency II rejected him and why similar outcomes may follow in future political contests.
While we acknowledge that electoral defeat can be difficult to bear, wisdom and maturity demand restraint, dignity, and responsible conduct.
As the saying goes, “He who comes to equity must come with clean hands,” and those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. We therefore advise Hon. Opuoru to desist from politics of bitterness and unfounded accusations.
For the record, Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire remains fully prepared for the upcoming Warri South Constituency II party primaries under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and we are confident of victory by the grace of God.
As a legislator, Hon. Obire has maintained a record of purposeful and impactful service. Though not given to self-promotion, his achievements are evident and will be comprehensively presented at the appropriate time.
We also find it necessary to caution Hon. Opuoru against making disrespectful remarks concerning revered traditional institutions and monarchs. Such actions are not only culturally inappropriate but carry serious social implications. We urge him to retract such statements and tender an unreserved apology.
Despite the distractions, Hon. Obire remains focused on delivering on his mandate. His commitment to service is unwavering, and his political future remains bright.
In conclusion, no amount of blackmail, slander, or campaign of calumny can derail Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire’s dedication to the people of Warri South Constituency II.
Signed:
Obire Media Team