Aniagwu Blames Nwoko’s Delta APC Defeat On Grassroots Disconnect
Aniagwu Faults Nwoko’s Political Strategy
DELTA State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has attributed Senator Ned Nwoko’s defeat in the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta North senatorial primary to what he described as the senator’s weak connection with grassroots politics and party stakeholders.
Speaking during an interview on News Central Television, Aniagwu said Nwoko allegedly relied more on political influence outside Delta State while neglecting the local political structure that determines electoral success within the district.
According to the commissioner, politics in Delta North remains deeply rooted in community relationships, regular consultations, and sustained engagement with party members across wards and local government areas.
He argued that Nwoko failed to maintain close ties with influential political actors, including commissioners, local government chairmen, House of Assembly members, ward leaders, and traditional institutions.
“These are the people who understand the grassroots and mobilise support during elections,” Aniagwu said.
Okowa’s Influence And Political Loyalty
Aniagwu further claimed that Nwoko’s emergence as senator in 2023 was largely made possible through the political backing of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
He described the support given to Nwoko during the 2023 elections as a form of political goodwill facilitated by Okowa’s influence within Delta North.
According to him, the senator failed to adequately sustain the relationships and loyalty that contributed to his electoral success.
The commissioner argued that Okowa continues to enjoy widespread support in the district because of his consistent interaction with the people even after leaving office as governor.
“Okowa attends social events, visits families during difficult times and remains accessible to the people. Those relationships matter greatly in politics,” he stated.
Criticism Over Constituency Engagement
Aniagwu also accused the senator of failing to deliver visible empowerment programmes and impactful constituency projects across the nine local government areas in Delta North during his time in the Senate.
He alleged that many party members became dissatisfied with what they perceived as limited engagement and insufficient political inclusion.
The commissioner maintained that party primaries are usually determined by loyal members who expect continuous interaction from aspirants, not last-minute political mobilisation.
He criticised politicians who attempt to depend on past political reputation instead of building active grassroots support structures.
Zoning And Local Sentiments
Speaking on the broader APC primary elections in Delta State, Aniagwu said zoning arrangements and local political sentiments significantly influenced outcomes in several constituencies.
He cited the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency as an example, noting that agitation for power rotation to Patani Local Government Area contributed to the defeat of long-serving lawmaker Nicholas Mutu.
Aniagwu advised politicians to remain consistently connected with their constituents, stressing that political relevance depends heavily on sustained grassroots relationships.
Using a local proverb, he said politicians must always remember the people who support them because they will inevitably return to seek their mandate in future elections.
