A disagreement has emerged between the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State over plans to make Governor Sheriff Oborevwori the sole candidate for the APC in the 2027 state governorship election.
According to Chief Julius Efeni Akpovoka, a chieftain of the ADC in the state, the move is not justifiable in terms of justice, fair play, and morality, beyond the APC’s constitutional provisions. In contrast, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, has expressed support for Governor Oborevwori and President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming elections. Nwoko stated that Delta North’s political leaders and the general public are united in backing Oborevwori for a second term in 2027.
The senator made these remarks at a stakeholders’ meeting of the Delta State chapter of the APC in Asaba. He emphasized that Delta North is committed to supporting Oborevwori and the administration of President Tinubu. Meanwhile, Akpovoka criticized the Minister of Aviation, Chief Festus Keyamo, for spearheading the endorsement of Governor Oborevwori as the sole candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Akpovoka expressed disappointment that Keyamo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, would overlook the APC’s constitutional provisions regarding party primary elections. He cited the state’s poor infrastructure, insecurity, and inadequate healthcare and educational facilities as reasons why the focus should be on addressing these issues rather than endorsing a single candidate. Akpovoka warned that the people of Delta State, particularly the Urhobo, would determine their governor and would not support a “street governor” with limited vision.
The disagreement highlights the complexities of Delta State’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. As the state prepares for the gubernatorial and presidential elections, the APC’s decision to endorse a sole candidate has sparked controversy and opposition from other parties. The developments in Delta State will likely have significant implications for the state’s political future and the upcoming elections.