Delta APC Primaries: Oborevwori Hails Peaceful Process Amid Statewide Consensus Wins
Statewide Exercise Reflects Organised Party Machinery
THE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has concluded its House of Representatives primaries, with party leaders projecting the exercise as a model of internal organisation and democratic participation.
Held across wards and constituencies, the primaries drew large crowds of party faithful, with officials citing the orderly conduct as a sign of growing political consolidation within the party.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described the exercise as a “true reflection of unity,” stressing that widespread participation underscored the party’s grassroots strength.
Tensions Beneath the Surface
Despite official claims of smooth conduct, reports from some constituencies indicated underlying tensions, particularly where endorsement politics and competition intersected.
Political analysts argue that while public scenes suggested calm, internal negotiations and power dynamics often shape outcomes in party primaries, raising questions about the depth of internal democracy.
The endorsement of candidates in some areas, though accepted in others, continues to generate debate within party ranks nationwide.
Role of Electoral Methods in Credibility Debate
The adoption of direct primaries and Option A4 voting once again came into focus, with Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme strongly backing the system.
Supporters argue the method enhances transparency, while critics say it may expose voters to pressure or intimidation in politically charged environments.
Nonetheless, the APC leadership in Delta maintains that the process ensured openness and minimized electoral malpractice.
Emergence of Candidates Across Constituencies
Several high-profile and returning politicians secured party tickets:
- Ndudi Elumelu, who described his victory as a collective mandate
- Jonathan Ukodhiko, retaining strong local support
- Ejiro Waive, emerging in a competitive race
Other winners across constituencies reflected a mix of incumbents and new entrants, highlighting both continuity and political renewal within the party.
Grassroots Participation and Voter Turnout
Across Delta, party members turned out in significant numbers, with many arriving early at polling centres. Local government leaders attributed the turnout to improved party mobilisation and confidence in the process.
In several wards, stakeholders praised the absence of violence, describing the exercise as a departure from historically contentious primaries.
Looking Ahead: Unity vs Post-Primary Fallout
While the APC leadership celebrates the primaries as successful, the next phase—post-primary reconciliation—will be crucial.
Experts warn that unresolved grievances among aspirants could undermine party cohesion if not properly addressed.
For now, the Delta APC appears to have cleared a key hurdle, but sustaining unity will determine whether the party can convert internal victories into electoral success in 2027.
