Abuja, March 27, 2026 – In a show of political solidarity and strategic engagement, Senator Ede O. Dafinone of Delta Central Senatorial District hosted a high-profile dinner for key party stakeholders from the district on Thursday night in Abuja. The gathering, held at Nkoyo Restaurant, Ceddi Plaza, was convened ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, which officially kicks off today at Eagle Square, and provided an opportunity for leaders and delegates to connect ahead of the critical event.
Speaking on the occasion, Senator Dafinone emphasized the importance of unity, dialogue, and collaboration among party leaders at both local and national levels. “Last night in Abuja, I had the pleasure of hosting a dinner at Nkoyo Restaurant, Ceddi Plaza, for our respected leaders from Delta Central who travelled in ahead of the APC National Convention starting today at Eagle Square,” he said. “It was a relaxed evening that allowed us to engage informally, reconnect, and foster a spirit of cooperation before the high-stakes convention.”
The dinner attracted an impressive array of political leaders, including prominent figures such as Ighoyota Amori, Chief John Oguma, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Delta Central APC Vice Chairman Chief Ovie Agas, Chief Kingsley Esiso, Chief Isaac Akpoveta, Olorogun Bernard Edewor, Dr. Mrs. Augustina Erah, Chief Mrs. Tina Brown, and Oniemo Faith Majemite. Their attendance underscored the commitment of Delta Central stakeholders to maintaining a unified front at the national gathering.
Also present were members of the Delta State House of Assembly, led by Deputy Speaker Arthur Akpowowo. Other lawmakers in attendance included Chief Perkins Umukoro, Chief James Augoye, Hon. Edafe Emakpor, Hon. Matthew Omonade, Hon. Festus Utuama, and Hon. Benson Obire. Their participation highlighted the legislature’s alignment with party objectives and the broader agenda of political cohesion within the senatorial district.
Council Chairmen from the region were equally well represented, led by the ALGON Chairman, Delta State Chapter, Chief Isaiah Onoriode Esiovwa. Other council leaders present at the dinner included Chief Bright Abeke, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, Dr. Lucky Avweromre, Chief Anthony Onoriode Ofoni, Chief Augustine Ogedegbe, and Olorogun Vincent Oyibode. Commissioners Hon. Onoriode Agofure and Hon. Ejiro Jamani, alongside APC local government area party chairmen and secretaries, also attended, reflecting the wide spectrum of leadership engaged in Delta Central politics.
Senator Dafinone, who has consistently positioned himself as a unifying figure within Delta Central APC, used the occasion to urge peaceful and constructive participation at the National Convention. “As the Convention begins today, I wish all participants a peaceful and successful outing,” he said. He further reaffirmed the party’s guiding message, declaring, “APC – Renewed Hope for More Agenda,” emphasizing the need for delegates to prioritize party unity and the broader national interest above personal or factional ambitions.
Political analysts have described such pre-convention gatherings as critical in fostering trust and alignment among stakeholders. By engaging leaders in an informal setting, lawmakers and party executives are able to discuss strategy, address concerns, and ensure that the region presents a cohesive front at the national level. The dinner hosted by Senator Dafinone is widely regarded as a strategic move aimed at ensuring Delta Central’s political relevance and influence within the APC framework.
The National Convention itself is expected to attract thousands of delegates from across the country, with party leadership focused on ratifying key positions, reviewing policies, and strengthening internal mechanisms for governance and electoral success. Delta Central, as a politically significant zone within the South-South geopolitical landscape, is being closely watched for the alignment of its delegates and the effectiveness of its internal coordination.
For residents and stakeholders within the district, the dinner offered a tangible demonstration of proactive political engagement. It highlighted the importance of preparation, dialogue, and mutual respect among leaders as essential ingredients for a successful convention. Participants also viewed the gathering as an opportunity to reinforce commitments to party principles and to strategize on ways to maximize Delta Central’s influence on national decisions.
Observers noted that Senator Dafinone’s initiative reinforces the growing trend of political leaders taking deliberate steps to unify their constituencies ahead of major party events. The engagement not only strengthens internal party dynamics but also enhances public confidence in elected leaders who prioritize cohesion, planning, and constructive participation in democratic processes.
The evening concluded on a note of optimism, with attendees expressing confidence that Delta Central would make a significant impact at the APC National Convention. Through gestures such as the hosting of this dinner, Senator Dafinone has demonstrated the central role of leadership, foresight, and collaboration in achieving sustainable political outcomes.
As the APC National Convention officially commences at Eagle Square today, all eyes are on the delegates, with expectations high that the unity cultivated in gatherings like Senator Dafinone’s dinner will translate into successful deliberations, effective decision-making, and a renewed commitment to the party’s agenda for national development.
With a blend of strategy, relationship-building, and inclusive engagement, the dinner at Nkoyo Restaurant stands out as a model for how regional leaders can prepare for critical national events while fostering goodwill and political cohesion within their zones.
