The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta Central Senatorial District witnessed a significant political gathering on Sunday as Senator Ede Dafinone formally declared his intention to seek re-election in 2027. The event, which took place at Oharisi Primary School in Ughelli, drew a massive turnout of party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters, effectively bringing the area to a standstill.
In his declaration speech, Dafinone expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received, emphasizing that leadership is rooted in service, integrity, and accountability—values he said were instilled in him by his late father, Senator David Dafinone. Reflecting on his tenure, the lawmaker highlighted key achievements, including empowerment programs, support for small businesses, provision of electricity transformers, establishment of ICT centers in schools, and medical outreach initiatives that have benefited thousands across the district. He also pointed to ongoing advocacy for strategic infrastructure projects such as the Sapele Seaport, improved road networks, and broader economic development initiatives aimed at positioning Delta Central for growth.
Dafinone used the occasion to align himself with national and state leadership, declaring support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, ahead of the 2027 general elections. He commended their policies, describing them as bold steps toward economic recovery and sustainable development. “Today, I stand before you to formally declare my intention to seek re-election to the Senate. This journey is not about me; it is about our future. Together, we will do more, create jobs, empower our youths, strengthen education, and build a stronger economy for our people,” Dafinone said.
Chairman of the APC in Delta Central, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, commended the senator for publicly declaring his intention ahead of the party's primaries. Akpeki stressed that the APC would follow due process in selecting its candidate, either through consensus or direct primaries, while urging party members to mobilize support at the grassroots level. “Leadership must be accountable and visible. He has come before the people to earn their trust. When the time comes, the party will decide, but the people must remain engaged and prepared,” Akpeki said.
Several prominent party leaders and stakeholders, including Prof Sam Ibodje, Hon. Halims Agoda, Chief Ighoyota Amori, Chief John Oguma, Hon. Midwest Iboyitete, Prince Urhoro Koyoyo, Chief Ramson Ikweki, and Dr. Mrs. Janet Oyubu, also spoke at the event. They unanimously endorsed the re-election bids of President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and Senator Dafinone for the 2027 elections. The event attracted top political figures, including Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; House of Representatives member, Hon. Francis Waive; former senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo; Olorogun O'tega Emerhor; Hon. Festus Agas; Hon. Austin Ayemidejor; Local Government Council Chairmen; Local Government Party Chairmen; and House of Assembly members, among others.
The declaration signals an early start to political mobilization within the APC in Delta Central, with party leaders expressing confidence in consolidating what they described as ongoing progress at both state and national levels.
