Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, has mourned the death of Niger Delta leader Patrick Dele Cole, describing him as a committed advocate of true federalism and resource control who remained loyal to the region despite the political implications of his stance.
Cole, born on August 4, 1940, in Abonnema, in the Kalabari Kingdom of present-day Rivers State, died in London at the age of 86.
Ibori paid tribute to the late statesman in a statement issued on Sunday titled “PDC: So Long My Leader,” in which he highlighted Cole’s contributions to the struggle for the Niger Delta’s legitimate interests.
According to the former governor, Cole was a prominent voice in the campaign for greater regional autonomy and control of the Niger Delta’s natural resources.
“He was a prominent leader in the Niger Delta who stood firmly with us in our struggle for True Federalism and Resource Control,” Ibori said.
He noted that Cole remained committed to the aspirations of his people even while serving as a Special Adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“Even while serving as a Special Adviser in President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, he remained committed to his people and their legitimate aspirations,” he said.
Ibori said the late leader’s position reflected his loyalty to the Niger Delta and his willingness to defend the region’s interests, even when doing so could carry political consequences.
“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,” the former governor added.
He further observed that Cole’s political decisions were shaped by his commitment to the interests and legitimate aspirations of the Niger Delta people.
Ibori extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, urging them to find comfort in God as they mourned his passing.
He said Cole’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly his advocacy for the Niger Delta, would remain part of his enduring legacy.
The former governor’s tribute adds to the recognition of Cole’s role in the region’s political history, particularly the long-running campaigns for resource control and a more equitable federal structure in Nigeria.
