In a significant political development in Delta State, Nigeria, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, the representative of Delta South Senatorial District, convened a constituency meeting in his hometown on Saturday, bringing together leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including a contingent of recent defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The gathering served as a platform to consolidate party unity, reaffirm support for the state’s current leadership, and project a unified front for future electoral contests, particularly the 2027 governorship election.
The meeting, attended by APC leadership from all eleven wards of Isoko South Local Government Area, underscored the party’s growing strength and its determination to solidify its political dominance in the region. Key figures in attendance included Chief Lucky Esigie, the APC Isoko nation leader; Hon. Johnson Erijo, Chief of Staff to the Delta State Governor; Odio Askia Ogeh, former Managing Director of DESOPADEC; and various other prominent state and local government officials. This broad representation of party leadership highlighted the seriousness of the meeting and its implications for the political landscape of Delta State. The presence of newly welcomed PDP defectors further emphasized the APC’s growing appeal and the apparent shift in political allegiances within the state.
A central theme of the meeting was the unequivocal endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the APC’s sole gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 election. Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas emphasized that the governorship “is not vacant,” urging party members to rally behind Governor Oborevwori and support his administration’s efforts to deliver on its promises. This preemptive endorsement aimed to quell any potential internal rivalries or challenges to the governor’s leadership, ensuring a united front as the party sets its sights on the next electoral cycle. This decisive move signals the party’s intention to maintain continuity and build upon the current administration’s progress.
Beyond the gubernatorial endorsement, the meeting also served as an occasion to express confidence in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas himself. A formal motion for a vote of confidence in the trio was passed unanimously, demonstrating the party’s unified support for its leaders at both the national and state levels. This show of solidarity reinforced the message of unity and signaled a concerted effort to align behind a shared vision for the state’s future. The emphasis on a collective approach further solidifies the party’s aim to consolidate power and influence in the region.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas emphasized the importance of inclusivity within the party, welcoming the new members from the PDP and stressing that there are no distinctions between “old” and “new” APC members. He urged party officials at all levels, particularly ward chairmen, to facilitate a smooth registration process for new members and to avoid any actions that might create divisions within the party. This call for unity and seamless integration of new members is crucial for building a strong and cohesive political force capable of achieving electoral success.
The meeting culminated in a powerful demonstration of unity, with attendees voicing their resounding support for President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas. The enthusiastic display of support served as a clear message of the party’s strength and resolve as it prepares for future political battles. The long list of attendees, including numerous community leaders, political figures, and former officials, further underscores the breadth of support the APC enjoys in the region and its growing influence within the state’s political landscape. The meeting, therefore, served as a strategic platform to not only consolidate internal unity but also to project an image of strength and stability to the broader public, setting the stage for future electoral campaigns.
