Political Stability Hinges on Zoning, Nwaoboshi Tells Delta North Stakeholders
ASABA/Nigeria: A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, has called for the adherence to the existing zoning arrangement in Delta North, declaring that it is the turn of the Ndokwa Nation to produce the next senator for the district in 2027.
Speaking during an interview with journalists, the former Delta State PDP chairman emphasized the importance of fairness, equity, and respect for zoning agreements within the senatorial district. According to him, the senatorial seat has historically rotated among the three major blocs in Delta North: Ndokwa, Ika, and Aniocha-Oshimili.
“With Aniocha-Oshimili completing its turn, it would be morally wrong for the bloc to attempt to retain the position. In 2027, it is the turn of the Ndokwa Nation to produce the senator for Delta North. Equity, justice, and fairness demand it,” Nwaoboshi stated.
Reflecting on past political agreements, Nwaoboshi cited instances where zoning principles guided decisions, including when the late Senator Patrick Osakwe, an Ndokwa leader, stepped down to allow Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to represent Ika in the Senate before later serving as governor.
“Chief Osakwe served three terms in the Senate, representing Delta North from 1999 to 2015. When his tenure ended, he respected the principle of equity, stepped down, and supported Okowa. This ensured stability and inclusiveness in Delta North politics. That history must not be forgotten,” he said.
Nwaoboshi also recounted his role in the emergence of Okowa as a senatorial candidate and later as governor, stressing the need for all stakeholders to honor agreements that have sustained harmony in the region.
Addressing internal crises within Delta APC, Nwaoboshi criticized the Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led Reconciliation Committee for worsening divisions instead of fostering unity. He described the committee’s recommendations, including the establishment of a “Leadership Council” and a co-chair arrangement between Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and a serving minister, as unconstitutional and counterproductive.
“The constitution of the party should guide us. Creating an organ outside the party’s constitution is illegal and a recipe for chaos. The proposal for a co-chair arrangement is disrespectful to Senator Omo-Agege, a former Deputy Senate President, and undermines the party’s hierarchy,” Nwaoboshi said.
He attributed the crisis to competing factions within the APC, noting that the rivalry between the Omo-Agege and Festus Keyamo groups had resurfaced, exacerbated by recent ministerial appointments. He warned that attempts to sideline Delta North in key party positions, such as the state chairmanship, would deepen divisions.
“Delta North must produce the next APC state chairman. After Delta South’s eight years under Prophet Jones Erue, it is only fair for the position to rotate to Delta North. Denying us this will further polarize the party,” he warned.
Nwaoboshi urged party members to prioritize unity and fairness, emphasizing that equity and inclusivity were essential for the APC’s growth and success in Delta State.
As the 2027 general elections approach, Nwaoboshi’s stance highlights the critical role of zoning in maintaining political stability and representation in Delta North.
