A major political upset unfolded on as prominent figures including Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, embattled former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi and Victor Nwokolo among others, were conspicuously absent from the much-publicized Delta North Stakeholders Meeting.
The meeting held on Saturday June 14, 2025 was convened at the premises of Sports University owned by Senator Ned Nwoko, the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly (NASS), Idumuje-Gboko in Antioch north local government area of the State.
Their absence raised fresh questions about unity and coordination within the old and new All Progressives Congress (APC), in the region’s political establishment.
The meeting, which was expected to serve as a platform for strategic dialogue on the future of Delta North, especially in light of renewed agitation for Anioma State creation, regional development galvanizing strength for the APC and other concerns, went ahead without these men.
Of the three house of representative members, only Rt Hon. Ngozi Okolie, member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, was present at the event.
The absentees are largely members of former Governor Okowa’s political camp, a faction widely perceived to be at odds with emerging power dynamics within the Delta North political bloc.
Their conspicuous absence from the Delta North APC Stakeholders Meeting raises fresh questions about internal rifts, loyalty realignments, and the ongoing contest for regional influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Their absence was neither formally explained nor acknowledged in any official capacity, deepening speculation about political rifts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who massively defected to the APC.
Silent Protest or Strategic Snub?
Political analysts have described the absence of Onyeme, Okowa, and Ezechi as a coordinated boycott, rather than mere scheduling conflicts.
Sources close to the corridors of power suggest the decision to abstain was a calculated expression of dissatisfaction with the current leadership direction of the zone and the perceived hijacking of regional political structures by emerging power blocs.
“This is not just about missing a meeting. This is a strong political message,” an APC insider at the event who spoke under anonymity stated.
“When you have the Deputy Governor and a former Governor both absent, along with others who have been central to Delta North’s political journey, it indicates deep-rooted issues.”
A House Divided?
Tensions reportedly center on the rise of new political actors in Delta North, many of whom are perceived as marginalizing established leaders.
While no official statement has been issued by Onyeme, Okowa, or Ezechi, their boycott is widely viewed as a protest against internal party dynamics, alleged lack of proper consultation, and unresolved grievances over power-sharing, resource allocation, and succession planning.
Already, cracks have begun to surface, with loyalists of different camps subtly trading blame over the region’s developmental stagnation and lack of unified leadership.
“Delta North cannot afford to present a fractured front,” said a local political commentator. “If these leaders cannot sit at the same table, how can they present a common vision to their people or to Abuja?”
The Road Ahead
With rising political tensions and shifting allegiances, the absence of Onyeme, Okowa, Ezechi and others from such a critical meeting is more than symbolic, it underscores a deepening crisis of trust and coordination within Delta North’s political elite.
Whether this was a one-off snub or the beginning of a wider political realignment remains to be seen.
As at the time of filing this report, text and WhatsApp messages sent to Mr. Fidelis Egugbo, Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, were yet to be acknowledged.
Ochei Urges Unity, Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori, Nwoko
Speaking at the well-attended senatorial meeting, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, emphasized the importance of unity among Delta North APC stakeholders, calling for harmony and inclusion across party lines.
“This meeting has become a tradition in Delta North,” he noted. “We’ve been rotating it across federal constituencies, from Ndokwa in Kwale to Aniocha/Oshimili, and next, Ika.”
Ochei commended the party’s recent growth, crediting it to defectors from PDP, Labour Party, and others. “We’re glad to welcome our brothers and sisters who’ve joined us. This must make us stronger, not divided.”
He urged stakeholders to foster inclusion, saying, “Let’s make our relationships seamless. APC isn’t here to divide us but to unite us, especially in Delta North. The unity of the party is in everyone’s interest, from the president to the governor, our senator, and the followers.”
Ochei acknowledged that leadership comes with structure and discipline. “We may have reservations, but party politics has rules. Issues must be resolved through dialogue. No one should be pushed out, those coming in should be welcomed with open arms.”
He challenged the leadership to close ranks. “APC Anioma is alive and strong, but this is just one part. We must bring everyone onboard.
“The Senatorial Chairman must convene a joint meeting of all leaders and stakeholders, both existing members and newcomers, to harmonize the party as one big family.”
Highlighting leadership as the root of internal conflicts, he added, “Followers don’t have problems; leaders do. So leaders must come together to unite the base.”
Ochei expressed confidence in Delta North’s organizing strength. “We led the way with senatorial meetings, we must continue and consolidate.”
Closing with a rallying call, he said: “Even though campaign bans haven’t been lifted, Delta North will support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s return in 2027. Likewise, we’ll back Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, our senator, and others here present.”
He stressed, however, that the work isn’t done. “Parts of our party are still absent. This victory must be total, nobody should be left behind. Let’s return to the drawing board and carry everyone along. Mr. Senatorial Chairman, with our State Chairman’s permission, convene that meeting as soon as possible.”
Efforts to reach the offices of the Deputy Governor and Dr. Okowa for comments proved unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
