A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, has declared that for equity, Ndokwa Nation deserves to produce the Delta North Senator in 2027, based on an existing zoning arrangement.
The former Delta North Senator emphasized that equity, fairness, and adherence to historical political agreements must guide the senatorial district's decision-making.
In an interview with journalists in Delta State, Senator Nwaoboshi outlined the rotational agreement among Delta North’s three key blocs: Ndokwa, Ika, and Aniocha-Oshimili. He stated that each bloc has held the senatorial seat for 12 years, noting that with Aniocha-Oshimili having completed its turn, the Ndokwa Nation should naturally produce the next senator.
"In 2027, it is the turn of Ndokwa Nation to produce the senator for Delta North. Equity, justice, and fairness demand it," Nwaoboshi stated. He added that he had been part of efforts to uphold this zoning formula, which has maintained political stability in Delta North for decades.
Reflecting on the zoning history, Nwaoboshi pointed out that Late Senator Patrick Osakwe of Ndokwa Nation served three terms (1999–2011), followed by Aniocha-Oshimili’s two terms (2011–2019), and Ika’s turn under Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who also transitioned to become Delta State Governor for eight years. “The Ika Nation has had both the Senate and governorship, and their turn is complete. It is now time for Ndokwa to take its rightful place,” he asserted.
He commended Late Senator Patrick Osakwe for his statesmanship, noting that Osakwe respected the zoning arrangement by stepping down to allow Ika produce the senator. “It takes great leadership to make sacrifices for the collective good. Osakwe’s actions set the precedent for fairness and unity,” Nwaoboshi added.
The former senator emphasized that Aniocha-Oshimili and Ika have enjoyed significant political positions over the years, including the deputy speakership, governorship, and senatorial representation. In contrast, Ndokwa Nation has not held similar positions in recent times, apart from the deputy governorship currently occupied by Chief Monday Onyeme.
Nwaoboshi also expressed concerns about the ongoing crisis within Delta APC. He called for strict adherence to constitutional provisions and criticized proposals for extraconstitutional organs, such as a "Leadership Council," describing them as unnecessary distractions.
"When you form a political party, you are guided by its constitution. Creating organs outside the party’s framework is a recipe for chaos. The party already has state, local government, and ward executives; there is no need for an unrecognized council," he argued.
Addressing the proposal to have Senator Ovie Omo-Agege co-chair the APC with a minister, Nwaoboshi described it as disrespectful to the order of precedence in governance. "A senator, especially a former Deputy Senate President, takes precedence over a minister in Nigeria’s hierarchy. This proposal not only undermines the constitution but also creates unnecessary friction," he said.
He highlighted the need for unity within Delta APC, adding that lingering tensions from previous factions led by Senator Omo-Agege and Barrister Festus Keyamo must not derail the party’s progress. "The APC must rise above internal divisions and focus on building a united front for 2027. Personal ambitions should not come before the party’s collective success," he advised.
On the issue of the APC state chairmanship, Nwaoboshi stressed that Delta North must produce the next chairman. "After Delta South held the position for eight years under Prophet Jones Erue, it is only fair for Delta North to take its turn. Denying us this right will further polarize the party," he warned.
Nwaoboshi maintained that zoning has been instrumental in fostering inclusivity and political stability in Delta North. "Adhering to these principles ensures that no group feels marginalized. Ndokwa’s turn for the Senate is not just a matter of fairness but a recognition of their contributions and sacrifices over the years," he added.
He called on party stakeholders to prioritize unity, fairness, and the party's long-term success. “Let us come together to build a stronger APC. Personal interests must take a back seat to the collective good of Delta North and the state,” Nwaoboshi concluded.
With the 2027 general elections fast approaching, Nwaoboshi’s stance has sparked renewed discussions on the importance of zoning and equitable representation in Delta North’s political landscape.
