The stage is set for another intense battle in Delta South Senatorial District, but this time within the ranks of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Former rivals from the 2023 general elections, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas of the APC and Michael Diden, popularly known as Ejele, now face off not across party lines, but as members of the same party for the APC senatorial ticket.
Joining them is Chief Malik Itiako Ikpokpo, a two-term Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, 2023 House of Representatives aspirant for Isoko Federal Constituency, and former Deputy National Chairman of the Association of Local Governments in Nigeria (ALGON).
Candidate Profiles
- Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas hails from Isoko South Local Government Area and currently chairs the Senate Committee on Local Content. He previously served as Executive Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (2009–2015) and State Coordinator for the Federal Inland Revenue Service (2016–2018). He is seeking a second term at the Red Chambers.
- Michael Diden (Ejele) is from Warri North Local Government Area and has held key positions including Commissioner representing the Itsekiri ethnic nationality in DESOPADEC, Chairman of Warri North Local Government, and member of the Delta State House of Assembly.
- Chief Malik Ikpokpo has a record of local and state-level governance and has presented a clear manifesto—the CLUE Agenda: Communication, Legislation, Unity, and Empowerment—aimed at addressing gaps in the district’s representation.
Delta South: A Multi-Ethnic Senatorial District
Delta South encompasses eight local government areas—Warri South, Warri North, Warri South-West, Isoko North, Isoko South, Burutu, Bomadi, and Patani—and includes the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Isoko ethnic groups. Historically, the district’s Senate representation has rotated among these groups:
- Isoko: Senator Stella Omu (1999–2003) and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (2023–present)
- Ijaw: Senator James Manager (2003–2023)
- Itsekiri: Yet to produce a senator
Political analysts are divided. Some argue that equity demands that the Itsekiri produce the next senator, while others contend that the Isoko, having had only one full term plus a first-term senator currently in office, deserve another opportunity.
Aspirants’ Chances
Supporters of Senator Joel-Onowakpo highlight his performance in the Senate, citing bills, projects, and empowerment initiatives that have endeared him to constituents. A close associate said:
“Senator Joel-Onowakpo has performed beyond expectations. Whether by direct primary or consensus, he has the backing of the party and the people of Delta South.”
Michael Diden’s camp, however, remains confident of his popularity and grassroots support, arguing that his strong showing in 2023 gives him a bright chance to clinch the APC ticket.
Chief Ikpokpo’s supporters emphasize his broad experience in local governance, strong leadership record, and CLUE manifesto, claiming these make him the preferred choice for a fresh approach to senatorial representation.
The Road Ahead
The APC has indicated it may use either direct primaries or a consensus arrangement to select its candidates. Whichever method is adopted, all eyes will be on Delta South, where the battle for the party’s senatorial ticket promises to be closely contested.
With potential new aspirants expected to join the race, the contest is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in Delta State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
