The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, declared his intention to contest for the Delta North Senatorial seat in 2027 on Tuesday.
He intends to run on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This decision means a significantly alters the political calculus of Delta North, where billionaire Senator Ned Nwoko holds sway and is expected to recontest.
The former governor stated that he yielded to a popular demand from high-profile political leaders. These figures visited his residence in Asaba to request that he join the race.
Consequently, Okowa will have to contend with the incumbent, Senator Ned Nwoko. Nwoko currently represents the district and leads the agitation for the creation of Anioma State.
Political Heavyweights Align for the 2027 Battle
A delegation of 50 leaders from the nine Local Government Areas of Delta North sponsored the declaration. This group included former and serving National Assembly members.
The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and the former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, led the mission.
The group met at the Deputy Governor’s Lodge before proceeding to Okowa’s residence.
Hon. Elumelu moved the motion for the former governor to run. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, a serving member of the House of Representatives, seconded the move.
“I heed your call. I feel very loved and honoured, and I have no choice but to accept,” Okowa said while addressing the delegation.
“As I accept your request for me to run for the Senate seat, we will run it together and win together,” he added.
An Apology to the Anioma People
The former governor appeared overwhelmed by the caliber of persons on the mission. Furthermore, he used the occasion to address his previous political choices.
He issued a formal apology to the generality of the Anioma people for his role in the 2023 election. Specifically, he apologized for being instrumental to the emergence of Senator Ned Nwoko.
“I will not disappoint you,” Okowa told the crowd of supporters gathered in his home.
His entry into the race sets the stage for a high-stakes battle. Supporters described him as a seasoned administrator and a consensus builder.
Meanwhile, political observers are watching closely to see how this move affects the balance of power between the APC and PDP in Delta State.
Okowa previously served as governor for eight years. He also held the Delta North Senate seat before his governorship. Consequently, he brings significant federal and state experience to the 2027 contest.
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