Quick Summary:
APC Delta North Coalition for Equity urges Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and party leaders to include pioneer members in decision-making and appointments to strengthen unity ahead of 2027.
Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta North Coalition for Equity (DNCE) have raised concerns over the continued exclusion of pioneer and loyal party members from key decision-making processes and appointments in Delta State.
The coalition made the call during a stakeholders’ meeting in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, on Sunday, urging the National Chairman of the APC and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to ensure that long-standing members are fully integrated into the affairs of government.
Call for Fairness and Recognition
Convener of the coalition, Chief Alex Ikpeazu, appealed to the governor and national leadership to promote equity, fairness, and inclusiveness, stressing that many founding members have remained steadfast despite years of political challenges and neglect.
He urged the party to develop a clear framework that recognises old APC members in leadership positions at ward, local government, and state levels, adding that such inclusion would foster unity and prevent conflict during the upcoming party congress.
Ikpeazu also called for the Delta North zone to produce the next state chairman, noting that Delta South and Central have previously held the position.
Leaders Warn Against Marginalisation
Kemmer Enina, Secretary of the coalition, warned that marginalising old members could weaken party unity and undermine loyalty.
Amb. Kenneth Rafua emphasised that inclusion is a right, not a privilege, noting that experienced members possess the institutional memory necessary for effective governance.
Ben LionHeart Williams urged party leaders to avoid alienating committed members, describing unity as the backbone of political success.
Williams Agholor, the coalition’s Publicity Secretary, clarified that their position was not driven by bitterness, but by a genuine concern for the party’s future and effective governance in Delta State.
Appeal for Reconciliation and Unity
High Chief Gabriel Ohai, the Odogwu of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and a pioneer APC member, recalled the sacrifices of early members and called for deliberate reintegration efforts.
Other members, including Com. Victor Sorokwu, Ajifo Nwabunma, and Mr. Osafule John, echoed the need for recognition, fairness, and active participation of old members in governance.
The coalition reaffirmed its loyalty to the APC and pledged continued support for the re-election of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Tinubu in 2027, while urging leaders to mend internal divisions for the party’s long-term stability.