In a powerful address delivered at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Stakeholders’ Meeting on Sunday at the Government House in Asaba, Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo, representing Delta South Senatorial District, boldly described the Delta State chapter of the APC as an “unstoppable moving train” as it gears up for the 2027 general elections. The senator’s remarks underscored a renewed sense of purpose, unity, and determination within the party, signaling its ambition to reshape the political landscape of Delta State and achieve significant electoral success.
The meeting, attended by party leaders, stakeholders, and members from across the state, served as a platform to rally support, strengthen organizational structures, and reaffirm the APC’s commitment to its political objectives. Senator Joel-Onowakpo, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Local Content, used the occasion to highlight the critical role of leadership and responsibility within the party, urging stakeholders to recognize the weight of their positions and the expectations that come with them.
“To be in this room is a privilege,” Joel-Onowakpo stated, addressing the gathering of party faithful. “It means you are not only recognized in your local government but also at the state level, and that comes with a burden. To whom much is given, much is expected.” His words were a call to action, emphasizing that leadership within the APC is not merely a title but a responsibility to serve the party’s vision and deliver results for its members and supporters.
The senator expressed pride in the unity displayed by the Delta South APC, pointing to the attendance of all House of Representatives members from the district as a testament to the zone’s collective resolve. “That tells you something,” he remarked, noting that the presence of these key figures demonstrated the district’s unwavering commitment to the party’s goals. This cohesion, he argued, positions Delta South as a formidable force within the state’s political framework.
Central to Joel-Onowakpo’s message was the APC’s determination to secure victories in the 2027 elections, including the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. He emphasized that the party’s leadership and members are fully aligned in their support for these objectives, reflecting a shared vision for the future of both the state and the nation. The senator’s confidence in the APC’s prospects was palpable, as he declared that the party’s momentum was unstoppable.
However, Joel-Onowakpo did not shy away from addressing the challenges of operating as an opposition party in Delta State, where the ruling party has historically held significant influence. Echoing the sentiments of his senatorial colleagues, Senators Ede Dafinone and Ned Nwoko, he acknowledged the difficulties of contesting elections outside the ruling fold. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the APC’s growing influence, asserting that the political tide is shifting in the party’s favor.
“Delta State, by this gathering, has become a moving train. It is unstoppable,” Joel-Onowakpo declared with conviction. His metaphor of the APC as a “moving train” encapsulated the party’s forward momentum and its determination to overcome obstacles. He urged party members to return to their communities and spread the message that the APC is ready to challenge the status quo. “Go home and let everybody know that it will not be business as usual,” he said. “We are committed, in body, soul, and spirit, to ensure that our party wins all its elections.”
The senator also issued a stern warning to party members against disloyalty, emphasizing the importance of unity and discipline within the APC’s ranks. “If there is anybody who is not in this place for a just cause, please be careful,” he cautioned, underscoring the need for all members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the party’s mission. This admonition was particularly significant in the context of Delta State’s complex political landscape, where internal cohesion can make or break a party’s electoral prospects.
The stakeholders’ meeting was a strategic move by the APC to strengthen its organizational framework and deepen its grassroots engagement. By bringing together leaders and members from across the state, the party aimed to consolidate its support base and build momentum ahead of the 2027 polls. The event highlighted the APC’s focus on mobilizing its members, fostering unity, and preparing for the challenges of the upcoming elections.
Joel-Onowakpo’s address also reflected the broader aspirations of the APC in Delta State. The party is working to position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling party, leveraging its national influence and the achievements of its leaders to appeal to voters. The senator’s emphasis on unity and commitment resonated with attendees, who left the meeting energized and ready to carry the party’s message to their communities.
The APC’s efforts in Delta State are part of a larger strategy to expand its influence in Nigeria’s South-South region, where it has historically faced challenges. By focusing on grassroots mobilization and building strong local structures, the party aims to challenge the dominance of the ruling party and establish itself as a formidable political force. Joel-Onowakpo’s leadership, alongside that of other key figures in the Delta APC, is central to this ambition.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the APC’s activities in Delta State are likely to intensify. The party’s ability to maintain its momentum, foster unity, and effectively engage with voters will be critical to its success. Joel-Onowakpo’s description of the APC as an “unstoppable moving train” is not just a rhetorical flourish but a reflection of the party’s growing confidence and determination to achieve its goals.
The senator’s message also carried a broader significance for the APC’s national strategy. By emphasizing the importance of unity and discipline, Joel-Onowakpo underscored the need for the party to present a cohesive front as it prepares for the challenges of the 2027 elections. His call for members to remain committed “in body, soul, and spirit” resonated as a rallying cry for the party’s rank and file, signaling that the APC is ready to fight for every vote.
In conclusion, Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo’s address at the APC Stakeholders’ Meeting in Asaba was a defining moment for the Delta State chapter of the party. His declaration that the APC is an “unstoppable moving train” encapsulated the party’s ambition, unity, and determination to succeed in the 2027 elections. By rallying party leaders and members, warning against disloyalty, and emphasizing the importance of grassroots engagement, Joel-Onowakpo set the tone for the APC’s campaign in Delta State. As the party continues to build its structures and mobilize its supporters, it is clear that the APC is positioning itself as a serious contender in Delta State’s political arena, with its sights set on achieving significant victories in 2027.
