Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was the first governor of Delta State from the Anioma (Delta North) region since the state’s creation in 1991. A medical doctor by training and a seasoned politician, he previously served as Commissioner for Agriculture and Water Resources, Secretary to the State Government, and Senator representing Delta North from 2011 to 2015 in the 7th National Assembly. Dr. Okowa was later elected Governor for two consecutive terms from 2015 to 2023. In the 2023 elections, he was the running mate to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. Although he governed under the PDP, he officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2025. Dr. Okowa’s leadership is noted for advancing education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in Delta State, with significant contributions to the Anioma region. His career exemplifies dedication to public service, regional development, and national politics.

Sam Obi was a respected Nigerian politician and statesman from Ute-Okpu in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, belonging to the Anioma ethnic nationality. He is remembered as one of the few Anioma sons to have occupied the office of Governor of Delta State, albeit in an acting capacity. Before becoming Acting Governor, Prince Obi served as a two-term member of the Delta State House of Assembly, representing Ika North East Constituency. He was later elected Speaker of the House in 2007, a position that prepared him for executive responsibility. When the Court of Appeal nullified Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s election on November 26, 2010, Prince Sam Obi, as Speaker of the Assembly, constitutionally assumed office as Acting Governor of Delta State. During his brief tenure, which lasted until Uduaghan’s reelection and reinstatement on January 10, 2011, Prince Obi maintained stability in the state, ensured continuity of governance, and sustained public confidence in the democratic process.