Isiokolo, Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, January 25, 2026 – The All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward 11 in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State convened a highly successful and well-attended general meeting on Tuesday at the Isiokolo residence of prominent APC chieftain High Chief Brodericks Arigbodi. The gathering, described by participants as a pivotal moment for party consolidation, brought together the ward's full executive committee, key stakeholders, community leaders, and newly integrated members in an atmosphere charged with reconciliation, renewed enthusiasm, and a collective resolve to strengthen the party's position ahead of upcoming elections.
Ward Chairman Chief Roji Lawrence opened the proceedings by extending a warm welcome to all attendees, expressing profound satisfaction with the impressive turnout. He highlighted the significance of the meeting as the first major assembly since the formal defection and integration of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members into the APC fold in the ward. "Today, I am truly happy as Chairman because we are now one united family," Chief Lawrence declared. He emphasized that the days of internal divisions and factionalism had been firmly consigned to history, paving the way for a cohesive structure capable of delivering electoral victories and advancing the interests of the community.
Host High Chief Brodericks Arigbodi, a respected APC stalwart and influential figure in Ethiope East politics, commended the members for their loyalty and massive participation. Drawing on the ward's track record, he recalled how previous displays of unity and dedication had contributed to landmark achievements, including the historic appointment of the ward's first-ever Honourable Commissioner. High Chief Arigbodi urged party faithful to redouble grassroots mobilization efforts in preparation for the next general elections. He expressed confidence that replicating—and surpassing—Ward 11's strong performance in previous polls could yield even greater political representation and developmental benefits for the area, including improved infrastructure, youth empowerment, and enhanced access to government programs.
A key highlight of the meeting was an address by Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, the Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, who represented the state government and conveyed updates from a high-level APC stakeholders' meeting held in Asaba the previous day. Professor Tonukari relayed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's explicit directive to party leaders across all levels to intensify mobilization and ensure full participation in the ongoing APC membership e-registration exercise. This national party initiative, aimed at updating records, verifying membership, and building a robust database ahead of internal congresses and primaries, has been a priority in Delta State under the governor's leadership.
The commissioner further stressed the importance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process. He called on eligible residents—particularly first-time voters, those who have lost their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and individuals wishing to transfer their polling units to Ward 11—to visit the INEC office in Isiokolo without delay. Timely registration, he noted, is essential to secure voting rights and maximize the ward's electoral influence in future contests.
Reinforcing the theme of reconciliation, Hon. Okakuro Oghorodi Ejuvwekpokpo addressed lingering concerns by affirming that all previous disagreements within the ward had been amicably resolved. He highlighted the positive working relationship between Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, describing the governor as the undisputed leader of the APC in Delta State. This unity at the top, he argued, provides a strong foundation for grassroots success and collective progress.
The meeting also served as a platform for direct engagement on local issues. Several unit representatives raised concerns about graduate unemployment in the ward, appealing to the commissioner for increased job opportunities through state channels. Professor Tonukari responded by acknowledging the challenges but pointing to substantial progress already made by the Oborevwori administration in engaging youths across various state institutions and agencies. He appealed for patience, assuring members that additional openings would be created in due course as part of ongoing efforts to address unemployment and empower the younger generation.
The session concluded on an uplifting note with a vote of thanks delivered by Barrister Henry Sohwo. He expressed deep appreciation to High Chief Arigbodi for his generous hospitality and consistent leadership, as well as to all dignitaries and attendees for their contributions to the day's success.
Among the notable figures present were High Chief Brodericks Arigbodi, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Hon. Okakuro Oghorodi Ejuvwekpokpo, Hon. Onoriode Wesley Arigbodi, Hon. Playwell Omonigho, Barrister Henry Sohwo, Barrister Johnson Emakpor Akpochafco, Barrister Ejiro Etaghene, Chief Dennis Diodemise, Okakuro Ese Otah, Okakuro Omojiriemu Vincent Ideh, Chief Ese Monica Otorho, Chief Royal Ugherughe, Hon. Efe Akpobaro, Hon. Ese Tebite, Chief Duke Whisky, Chief Monday Tebite, and Engr. Ochuko Onakpoma. Their attendance underscored the broad-based support and inclusive nature of the gathering.
This Ward 11 meeting reflects broader trends within the Delta State APC, where recent stakeholder engagements in Asaba have emphasized unity, e-registration, and preparedness for congresses amid efforts to consolidate gains from defections and build momentum toward 2027 elections. In Ethiope East, a strategically important area with a history of competitive politics, such grassroots initiatives are seen as vital to expanding the party's footprint and delivering on promises of development and good governance.
As the APC continues its drive for membership verification and voter mobilization across Delta State, events like the Isiokolo gathering demonstrate the party's commitment to inclusivity, reconciliation, and active citizen participation. With unity now firmly established in Ward 11, stakeholders are optimistic that this momentum will translate into stronger electoral outcomes and tangible benefits for the people of Ethiope East.
