Former Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has declared his intention to contest the Delta North senatorial seat in the 2027 general election under the All Progressives Congress, following mounting pressure from political stakeholders in the district.
Okowa made the announcement at his residence in Asaba while hosting a delegation of political leaders from Delta North senatorial district.
The delegation, led by Monday Onyeme, comprised former and serving lawmakers, government officials, and key stakeholders from the nine local government areas within the district.
During the meeting, a motion urging Okowa to contest for the Senate was moved by Ndudi Elumelu and seconded by Nnamdi Ezechi. The motion received unanimous support from attendees.
The leaders described Okowa as a seasoned administrator and consensus builder, noting that his previous experience as both governor and senator positions him to deliver effective representation at the national level.
In his response, Okowa expressed appreciation for the endorsement and formally accepted the call to run.
“I feel very loved and honoured by this show of support. For the calibre of persons here and the unity of purpose demonstrated, I have no choice but to accept,” he said.
He added that consultations with political leaders across the district would begin promptly, noting the limited time ahead of the election cycle.
“I accept your request to run for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Delta North senatorial district,” he stated, while emphasising his commitment to continuous learning in public service.
Okowa also thanked the Anioma people for their consistent support, recalling their backing during his 2011 senatorial bid and subsequent governorship elections. He said he would once again rely on their support ahead of the 2027 polls.
The former governor further apologised to constituents over what he described as a “mistake” in supporting the emergence of Ned Nwoko, the current senator representing Delta North.
The development signals an early start to political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Okowa’s anticipated candidacy expected to shape the contest in the district.
