ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- A high-stakes political contest is unfolding in Delta State as prominent figures, including Ifeanyi Okowa, Ned Nwoko, Ovie Omo-Agege and Ede Dafinone, jostle for the All Progressives Congress senatorial tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Despite the calibre and political pedigree of the aspirants, emerging indications suggest that individual popularity and track records may ultimately count less, as the party structure reportedly controlled by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is poised to play a decisive role in determining who clinches the tickets.
Observers say only a possible intervention from President Bola Tinubu could alter the current trajectory.
In Delta North, the contest has crystallised into a fierce rivalry between incumbent Senator Nwoko and former governor Okowa, with former Speaker Victor Ochei positioned as a distant contender.
Before Okowa’s entry, Nwoko appeared firmly on course to secure the ticket and potentially coast to victory in the general election.
However, the dynamics shifted significantly with Okowa’s arrival, injecting new intensity into the race.
Political watchers note that while Nwoko has performed creditably in office, Okowa’s deep political experience, expansive network, and strategic influence give him an edge in navigating party structures.
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Okowa demonstrated his grassroots strength during a consultation visit to Oshimili South, widely regarded as Nwoko’s stronghold, where he directly challenged his opponent’s political narrative.
During the engagement, the former governor accused Nwoko of misleading stakeholders over the push for Anioma State, a key campaign issue that had bolstered Nwoko’s popularity in the district.
The move was widely interpreted as a calculated attempt to weaken Nwoko’s strongest political selling point ahead of the primaries.
However, Okowa is not without vulnerabilities. His failed vice-presidential bid in 2023 and allegations of uneven development during his tenure have reportedly created resentment among some stakeholders.
Even so, insiders insist that these factors may have limited impact compared to the influence of the governor’s structure.
A party chieftain aligned with the state leadership described the contest as “transactional,” suggesting that Okowa’s support for Oborevwori’s emergence as governor could now be repaid with political backing.
Nwoko, aware of the odds, is believed to be banking on presidential backing to tilt the contest in his favour.
In Delta Central, the race is shaping into a direct contest between Omo-Agege and incumbent Senator Dafinone.
The key question dominating political discussions is where Governor Oborevwori’s support will fall.
In 2023, Oborevwori had openly opposed Dafinone’s candidacy while contesting the governorship under a different party. However, both men eventually won their respective elections.
Now, with both operating within the APC, the dynamics have shifted dramatically.
Analysts say Dafinone’s chances hinge heavily on backing from the governor’s structure, which could prove decisive against Omo-Agege, widely regarded as a formidable political force with strong national connections.
There are also strategic calculations at play. Speculation persists that Oborevwori, who may eye a Senate seat after his tenure, could prefer a less dominant figure occupying the position, making Dafinone a more favourable option.
Party insiders argue that Omo-Agege’s perceived distance from current party structures in the state may further weaken his chances, despite his influence.
Still, like Nwoko in Delta North, Omo-Agege’s prospects could improve significantly if he secures backing from the presidency.
Unlike the intense battles in the other districts, Delta South presents a relatively calm political environment, with Senator Joel-Onowakpor Thomas widely seen as the frontrunner for the APC ticket.
His advantage stems largely from longstanding zoning arrangements and ethnic political alliances within the district.
There is a growing consensus that Delta South is positioned to produce the state’s next governor in 2031, with Ijaw stakeholders strongly pushing for the slot.
As part of this broader strategy, the Ijaw bloc is reportedly avoiding contesting the Senate seat, instead supporting Isoko candidates with the expectation of reciprocal political backing in the future.
This arrangement has effectively reduced competition for Thomas, who also enjoys support from influential groups such as the Isoko Development Union.
Political observers say the absence of formidable challengers, combined with backing from the state structure, places Thomas in a strong position to retain his seat.
Across the three senatorial districts, a common thread is emerging: internal party dynamics and power structures appear to outweigh individual merit in determining outcomes.
While aspirants continue to mobilise support and showcase credentials, the final decisions may ultimately rest on political alliances, strategic interests, and, potentially, intervention from the highest levels of power.
With the primaries approaching, the battles in Delta APC are not just about ambition, they are a test of influence, loyalty, and control within the party’s evolving structure.