OLEH — The political landscape of Delta South Senatorial District took a decisive turn on Friday, May 1, 2026, as top-tier stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) converged in the Isoko South Local Government Area to issue a sweeping endorsement of incumbent Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo for a second term. The endorsement, which took place during a massive declaration rally at the Oleh Township Stadium, signals a consolidated front within the party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Among the prominent voices lending their weight to the "continuity" movement was the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro. Speaking to an energized crowd of party faithful, Otuaro and other leaders characterized the Senator's first-term performance as a benchmark for effective representation. They argued that Joel-Onowakpo has successfully bridged the gap between the grassroots and the federal center, particularly in attracting infrastructure and empowerment programs to the oil-rich senatorial district.
The rally, however, served as more than just a localized endorsement. In a significant display of cross-party and multi-level political pragmatism, the stakeholders declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as their sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election. In a move that highlights the unique political climate of Delta State, they also formally endorsed Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the governorship poll, signaling a desire for regional stability across party lines.
The event featured a "Who's Who" of Delta South political heavyweights. Notable attendees and endorsers included Hon. Julius Pondi, the member representing Burutu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives; Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; and Prince Johnson Erijo, the Chief of Staff to the Delta State Governor. Their presence underscored a unified senatorial agenda that appears to transcend traditional partisan frictions in favor of consolidated regional leadership.
Local party leadership was equally vocal during the proceedings. Hon. Emmanuel Amgbaduba, the APC State Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Delta South Senatorial District, lauded the discipline of the party members and the transparency of the endorsement process. He was joined by Dr. Tonye Timi, the Executive Director of Corporate Services at the South South Development Commission, who noted that the district’s development is best served by "experienced hands" who have already established a footprint in the current administration.
The atmosphere at the Oleh Township Stadium was electric, with various support groups and ward representatives marching in solidarity with the endorsed candidates. Many speakers pointed to Senator Joel-Onowakpo’s legislative interventions—particularly those addressing the ecological and economic needs of the Niger Delta—as the primary reason for their unwavering support.
As the 2027 election cycle begins to gain momentum, this early and high-profile endorsement by the Delta South APC establishment sets a formidable stage. By aligning their support with the Presidency and the State House, while locking in their senatorial preference, these stakeholders have signaled that the Delta South Senatorial District intends to enter the next electoral season as a unified and strategic voting bloc. With the rally concluded, the focus now shifts to grassroots mobilization as the party looks to translate this institutional endorsement into a decisive victory at the polls.
