Sen. Joel-Onowakpo Extends Olive Branch to Ejele, Malik, Ogor to Join Forces for APC’s 2027 Victory

Delta South Senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 general elections, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has extended olive branch to his main challengers—Hon. Michael Diden (popularly known as Ejele), Chief Itiako Ikpokpo (Malik), and Barrister Jay Ogor—to pool their resources and influence to guarantee a sweeping victory for the APC across the state comes 2027.

In a statement he personally signed, Sen. Joel-Onowakpo, who secured 87,805 votes to clinched the party’s ticket against his closest rival, Ejele who got 30,798, described the outcome as a triumph for democratic integrity and internal harmony, rather than a personal win.

He expressed gratitude to God Almighty for the successful conduct and outcome of the party’s primiries across the state, saying it is time to consolidate on the gains of the free and fair primay elections.

“I am deeply humbled and honoured by the overwhelming support and confidence reposed in me by party faithful across the eight Local Government Areas of Delta South Senatorial District. This victory is not mine alone; it is a collective triumph for unity, continuity, consolidation, effective representation and the shared aspirations of our people”, Joel-Onowakpo stated.

Acknowledging that healthy competition is the bedrock of democracy, the frontline APC flag bearer for Delta South, emphasized that the internal contest is over, and the focus must now shift to the larger goal of party success at the general elections.

Joel-Onowakpo, however expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Chairman of the party, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for their exemplary leadership and commitment to internal democracy within the APC.

He also thanked the Chairman of APC in Delta State, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Johnson Erijo as well as the Senatorial District Chairman of APC, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba and members of the executive.

He further extended his appreciation to the eight Local Government Council Chairmen within the senatorial district, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring a peaceful and credible exercise.

The federal lawmaker, salute the eight Council Chairmen of Delta South, party leaders, ward and unit executives, women, youths, supporters and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly for the success of the exercise.

He also gave special recognition to socio-cultural organizations, including the Isoko Development Union (IDU) members of his constituents including the youths and women who stood firmly behind his candidacy.

With the primaries concluded, Senator Joel-Onowakpo noted that the focus must now turn toward delivering governance and securing the district’s future.

“This victory comes with greater responsibility. I remain committed to quality legislation, effective representation, youth and women empowerment, infrastructural development, and policies that will continue to improve the lives of our people”, he said adding “Together, we shall continue to move Delta South and our great party forward to greater victory”.