Former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Announces APC Bid for Delta North Senate Seat
In a significant political development, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past governor of Delta State and 2023 Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has formally declared his interest in contesting the Delta North Senatorial election under the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move sets up a direct challenge to the current occupant of the seat, billionaire businessman Ned Nwoko, marking a notable shift in the political landscape of the region.
Pressure from Political Leaders Leads to Declaration
Okowa's decision comes after he yielded to pressure from various influential groups, including over 50 high-profile political leaders representing the nine local council areas in Delta North. These leaders gathered at his residence in Asaba to urge him to seek the APC ticket for the Senate in the upcoming 2027 general elections. The delegation was led by the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and included a mix of former and current National Assembly members, top government officials, and seasoned politicians.
Prior to the visit, the group convened at the deputy governor's lodge, where they reached a unanimous resolution to encourage Okowa to contest the Senate seat. During this meeting, concerns were raised about the quality of representation currently being provided to the district in the Senate. A motion was moved by former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Mr Ndudi Elumelu, and seconded by current House member Nnamdi Ezechi, proposing that Okowa return to the Senate. This motion received unanimous approval from all present.
Endorsement from Prominent Figures
Speaking on behalf of the leaders, several prominent figures voiced their support for Okowa's candidacy. These included Chris Agbobu, a former minister from the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Chief Emma Onyiuku from the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, and Doris Uboh, a former House of Representatives member from the Ika Federal Constituency. They collectively urged Okowa to accept the call to represent Delta North in the Senate, describing him as a seasoned administrator and consensus builder whose extensive experience remains vital for effective representation at the federal level.
Okowa's Emotional Response and Acceptance
At his residence, Okowa, who served as governor of Delta State from 2015 to 2023, expressed surprise and was visibly overwhelmed with emotion over the visit and the demand from the people. In his response, he stated, "I will heed your call. I feel very loved and honoured, and I have no choice but to accept." This declaration underscores his commitment to re-enter the political arena and contest the senatorial seat, potentially reshaping the dynamics of Delta State's representation in the National Assembly.
