Sapele, Delta State – The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sapele Local Government Area has publicly affirmed its full support for Senator Ede Dafinone's bid for a second term in the Senate, representing Delta Central Senatorial District. The endorsement, described by party leaders as a demonstration of unity and appreciation for the senator's contributions, comes early in the buildup to the 2027 general elections.
The declaration was made during a thank-you visit by the newly elected APC executives of Sapele LGA to Senator Dafinone at his country home in Sapele on Saturday, March 1, 2026. The visit followed the recent peaceful conduct of the party's Local Government Congress, which produced the current executive members.
Hon. Francis Okpigben, the APC Chairman in Sapele LGA, led the delegation and emphasized that the endorsement was rooted in gratitude for the senator's stabilizing influence during the congress process. "This is a show of unity and appreciation for your role in ensuring peace and fairness," Okpigben stated. He further pledged unwavering backing, declaring, "Come 2027, Sapele APC will stand solidly with you."
In response, Senator Dafinone commended the executives for their cohesion and urged them to sustain the momentum of unity within the party. He highlighted the significance of the peaceful congress in Sapele, noting that it marked a departure from past internal divisions and signaled the beginning of a stronger, more unified front. The senator expressed optimism that the harmony achieved in Sapele could serve as a model for replication across Delta State's 25 local government areas as the APC gears up for national elections.
The endorsement aligns with broader sentiments within parts of Delta Central, where Dafinone's accessibility, responsiveness, and legislative efforts have garnered praise. Reports from various sources indicate that the senator has been commended for his consistent engagement with constituents, including traditional rulers such as the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, who has highlighted his approachable leadership style since assuming office.
This development in Sapele is viewed as a strategic early consolidation of support within the senator's home base. Political analysts note that endorsements from a leader's immediate political stronghold often carry significant weight, as they reflect unfiltered assessments of performance, accessibility, and impact. Sapele, being a key component of Delta Central, provides a strong indicator of grassroots confidence in Dafinone's representation.
The move comes amid ongoing party activities in Delta State, including recent ward and local government congresses that have emphasized unity and discipline. Senator Dafinone has separately congratulated the newly elected Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Val Arenyeka, and the State Working Committee, urging them to focus on grassroots mobilization and internal harmony ahead of future electoral challenges.
Observers see the Sapele endorsement as a call for similar alignments across other local government areas in Delta Central. Early and unified backing is seen as essential for strengthening the party's negotiating position at the national level, minimizing internal rivalries, and presenting a cohesive front to voters. In a region where political dynamics are evolving rapidly, continuity in proven leadership is increasingly prioritized to enhance federal influence, economic advocacy, and legislative effectiveness.
Senator Ede Dafinone, an Urhobo political figure, has been active in highlighting developmental and infrastructural progress under both state and federal leadership. He has publicly acknowledged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's contributions to Delta State's growth, including massive infrastructure projects, while advocating for continued collaboration across party lines where beneficial.
The Sapele APC's position underscores a growing narrative of rewarding delivery and trust built over the first term. Party faithful argue that such endorsements prevent unnecessary political experiments at a critical juncture when stable representation can amplify the district's voice in Abuja.
As preparations intensify for the 2027 polls, stakeholders in Delta Central are watching closely to see if other LGAs will follow Sapele's lead in publicly committing to continuity. The early declaration is expected to foster stability within the APC structure and provide clarity to the electorate on the path forward.
This endorsement reflects not just local appreciation but a broader strategic signal: sustained leadership where performance has been demonstrated can consolidate political gains and position Delta Central more favorably in national affairs. With unity as the recurring theme in recent party events, the APC in the region appears poised to build on this momentum.
