At a press briefing held in Agbor, Delta State, leaders of the coalition said Okowa should not be allowed to contest for the Delta North Senate seat until he clears himself of the alleged N1.3 trillion corruption charges reportedly brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The conveners of the coalition, Benjamin Atagama-Ofochi, Kingsley Kainehi, and Vice President II of the Movement for the Emancipation of Anioma Nation, Mr. Agholor Okoh, accused the former governor of dominating the political space in Delta North for too long.

According to them, Delta North was not pleading with Okowa to run for office and should no longer remain under what they described as his political control.

They also criticised what they termed the continued influence of the Okowa family in public affairs, questioning the possibility of both father and daughter, Marilyn Okowa Daramola (currently a member of the State House of Assembly), returning to government positions.

The coalition said their opposition was driven by a desire to create opportunities for younger politicians in the district and end what they described as political oppression and dominance.

Meanwhile, Senator Ned Nwoko has officially declared his intention to seek re-election to the Senate, while also pledging full support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, made the declaration at the Asaba International Airport, where a large crowd of supporters, party loyalists and community leaders gathered in what turned into a political rally atmosphere.

The senator was accompanied by former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, alongside youth groups, women associations and key APC stakeholders from across Delta North.

Addressing the journalists, Nwoko said his decision to seek another term was driven by the need to consolidate on achievements recorded since assuming office in June 2023.

The senator said his connection with the people of Delta North remains strong and rooted in service, “The people know me, and I know them. I understand their needs and I am committed to solving their problems”.

He also pledged full support for the re-election of President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

The senator expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, praising the President’s performance since assuming office.

“I will work for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because he has done well. I believe in Mr President and his performance so far,” Nwoko said. (Saturday Guardian)