A coalition of long-standing members within Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has issued a formal call for the immediate inclusion of pioneer party members in key governmental and party decision-making roles. The Delta North Coalition for Equity (DNCE) warned that sustained exclusion threatens party unity and effective governance.
The group’s demands were articulated during a meeting in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, on Sunday. DNCE specifically urged National APC leadership and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to rectify what they described as the marginalisation of founding members who remained loyal through challenging periods.
Convener Chief Alex Ikpeazu stressed that sustainable party growth depends on recognising those who “laboured for the party’s survival.” He proposed a clear framework ensuring pioneer members are considered for ward, local government, and state-level chairmanship positions to foster “understanding and togetherness.” Ikpeazu also advocated for the zoning of the state party chairmanship to Delta North, following precedents set by Delta South and Central, as a reconciliation step ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Secretary Kemmer Enina cautioned that marginalisation weakens unity, noting that exclusion breeds discontent and erodes loyalty. Ambassador Kenneth Rafua asserted that inclusion is “not a privilege but a right,” highlighting the institutional knowledge experienced members bring to governance. Other leaders, including Ben LionHeart Williams and Williams Agholor, echoed these sentiments, framing the appeal as a genuine concern for the party’s future and the state’s effective administration, rather than a product of bitterness.
The coalition reaffirmed its unwavering loyalty to the APC and pledged continued support for Governor Oborevwori’s administration and the re-election bids of the governor and President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Their statement represents a significant internal advocacy effort, spotlighting tensions between party founding members and newer entrants. The call for structured inclusion and zonal equity underscores a critical test for APC leadership in Delta State as it seeks to consolidate its base ahead of future electoral contests. The resolution of this internal demand is poised to impact the party’s cohesion and strategy in the region.
