Ughelli, Delta State – In a significant step toward ensuring a peaceful and unified party congress, the Ughelli North Local Government Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally adopted Mr. Lucky Ofomukoro as its consensus candidate for the position of Local Government Chairman.
The decision was reached during a high-level consultative meeting of APC leaders and stakeholders held on Sunday at the Ughelli North Local Government Council Secretariat. The gathering was part of deliberate efforts by the party to resolve internal differences, uphold zoning arrangements, and conduct a rancour-free congress at both ward and local government levels.
Mr. Ofomukoro, who hails from Agbarha-Otor Ward, emerged as the preferred choice following extensive consultations among party elders, leaders, and stakeholders. The chairmanship position had been zoned to Agbarha-Otor Ward, where leaders unanimously endorsed his candidature.
Presiding over the meeting, Vice Chairman of the APC Ughelli North Leaders Council, Chief Fred Majemite, described the process as transparent, inclusive, and consensus-driven. He emphasized that party leaders had engaged in wide-ranging discussions and deliberately opted for consensus-building to avoid unnecessary acrimony and litigation.
“Leaders and elders of the party met, consulted widely, and agreed on zoning arrangements and leadership positions in the overall interest of party unity,” Chief Majemite stated. He noted that the adoption of Ofomukoro aligned with prior zoning agreements and that reconciliation committees had been established to address areas of disagreement.
According to him, approximately 90 per cent of outstanding issues across the wards had already been resolved, with assurances that the remaining minor matters—particularly in a few wards—would be promptly addressed to guarantee a smooth and hitch-free congress.
Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Chief Jaro Egbo, commended the party leadership for embracing dialogue and compromise. He described consensus as a normal and healthy political practice that strengthens internal cohesion.
“Early resolution of differences will position the party strongly ahead of the congress and future electoral contests,” Chief Egbo said. He urged all stakeholders to remain inclusive, return to their respective wards for further consultations, and ensure no group is marginalized in the party’s internal processes.
The chairman revealed that the meeting was strictly consultative and not the congress itself. He disclosed that five leaders from each of the eleven wards—totaling 55 stakeholders—were invited, with near-full attendance recorded.
Outgoing Chairman of the APC in Ughelli North, Hon. Samuel Evwighono, described the gathering as a clear demonstration of unity and purpose. He noted that the atmosphere was peaceful and cordial, and to the best of his knowledge, no major grievances remained unresolved among party members.
Hon. Evwighono advised the incoming leadership to prioritize reconciliation and inclusiveness, stressing that “unity remains the strongest asset of any political party.”
Also speaking at the meeting, Engr. Christabel Obiuwevbi and Olorogun Alice Ikpen expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the positive inclusion of women in the process. They noted that each ward was represented by at least one female leader, describing the development as a step forward toward more inclusive leadership within the party.
The well-attended meeting drew several prominent figures from across Delta State’s political landscape, including:
- Hon. Matthew Omonade, Member representing Ughelli North I in the Delta State House of Assembly
- Hon. Solomon Awhinawhi, former Member of the House of Representatives
- Hon. Charles Oniyere, Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters
- Rt. Hon. Festus Agas, former Secretary to the Delta State Government
- Sir Festus Ahon, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
- Prof. S.W.E. Ibodje, Chairman of the Elders Committee
- Olorogun Gladys Agba Ovie
- Chief Simeon Owhofa
- Hon. Sylvester Ovbije
- Hon. Samuel Mariere, Chairman of Delta SUBEB
- Hon. Kelly Oghenekevwe
- and other respected leaders and stakeholders.
The adoption of Mr. Lucky Ofomukoro as consensus chairman has been widely welcomed as a strategic move to consolidate the APC in Ughelli North. Party leaders expressed optimism that the consensus approach would pave the way for a successful, peaceful congress and stronger internal cohesion as the party prepares for future electoral battles.
By prioritizing dialogue, zoning equity, and reconciliation, the Ughelli North APC has positioned itself as a model of internal democracy and maturity within the broader Delta State chapter. The move is expected to minimize intra-party conflicts and enhance the party’s competitiveness ahead of upcoming local government elections and other political engagements in the state.
With the congress now on course to proceed smoothly, attention will shift to the formal election process, which will be conducted in strict compliance with the APC’s national guidelines and the provisions of the Electoral Act.
