Okowa Declares for Delta North Senate, Apologises for Supporting Ned Nwoko

Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has declared his intention to contest the Delta North Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections under the All Progressives Congress, bowing to pressure from over 50 political leaders from across the district’s nine local government areas.

Okowa made the announcement at his residence in Asaba on Sunday while addressing a delegation led by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme. The group included former and serving members of the National Assembly, senior government officials, and influential stakeholders from the Anioma political bloc.

“I feel very loved and honoured by this show of support. For the calibre of persons here and the unity of purpose demonstrated, I have no choice but to accept,” Okowa said. “As I accept your request, this is not about me alone. It is a collective project. We will run it together and, by the grace of God, we will win together.”

A Formal Motion

Before the visit, the leaders had met at the deputy governor’s lodge and resolved to present a unified appeal to Okowa. A formal motion calling on him to contest was moved by former House Minority Leader Ndudi Elumelu and seconded by serving House member Nnamdi Ezechi. It received unanimous approval.

The delegation argued that Delta North needed a more experienced voice in the Senate, expressing dissatisfaction with what they called “the declining quality of representation currently being experienced.” They described Okowa as “a seasoned administrator, consensus builder, and bridge between diverse political interests.”

Apology Over Ned Nwoko

In a notable moment, Okowa apologised to the district for what he called a “mistake” in supporting the emergence of Ned Nwoko, the current senator representing Delta North. Nwoko, the billionaire businessman married to Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, has faced criticism over his representation of the district since taking office.

Okowa’s apology signals an attempt to reset the relationship with Anioma voters and draw a clear line between his tenure and the current Senate representation.

A Return to the Chamber

Okowa is no stranger to the Senate. He previously represented Delta North in the upper chamber before becoming governor in 2015. His 2023 vice-presidential run alongside Atiku Abubakar under the PDP ended in defeat, and his subsequent move to the APC marked a significant political realignment in Delta State.

This Senate bid gives him a path back to national relevance, and the backing of the Anioma political establishment suggests the party machinery will be firmly behind him. But the race will not be uncontested. Nwoko is expected to fight to retain his seat, and reactions across the district have been mixed, with some questioning Okowa’s motives and others welcoming his return.

What It Means for Delta Politics

Okowa’s declaration also reshapes the wider Delta political landscape. Analysts say his Senate run could clear the path for President Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s re-election bids, as it consolidates APC support in the state rather than fragmenting it across multiple ambitious candidates.

The contest for Delta North is shaping up to be one of the more compelling Senate races in 2027.

Sources: Punch, TheCable, Vanguard, Tribune