The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State finds itself at a crucial crossroads. As the main opposition to the entrenched People's Democratic Party (PDP), it has the potential to offer a compelling alternative. However, internal challenges in the APC have created significant barriers to this goal. Factionalism, internal rivalry, and the influence of personal agendas have distracted the party from its core mission as an opposition force, which should be to create a united, persuasive, and effective platform to compete for the state's leadership. Without a cohesive approach, the APC risks undermining its own prospects, allowing the PDP to maintain its dominant position with little resistance.
A key figure in Delta APC's landscape is Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, who currently stands out as the party’s most viable candidate to contest the PDP's grip on power. Omo-Agege’s appeal is rooted in his established state-wide recognition, his political experience, and his capacity to engage diverse segments of the electorate. Over the years, Omo-Agege has built a reputation that resonates not only within the APC’s base but also among the wider Delta populace. His influence extends to grassroots communities, where his name has become synonymous with the hope for change and an alternative to the PDP’s long-standing rule. In a state where the opposition struggles to connect meaningfully with local communities, Omo-Agege's established rapport with the electorate gives him an edge that no other candidate within the APC currently possesses.
There is no doubt that Ovie Omo-Agege has been humbled by the outcome of the last election; hence, he can become a better rallying point for unity within the party. Omo-Agege’s candidacy offers the APC a rare chance to unify its base and draw in supporters beyond its immediate circle. With his influence and charisma, he has the potential to build a broad coalition that could effectively challenge the PDP’s stronghold. Moreover, he has demonstrated an understanding of the state’s unique challenges and aspirations, positioning himself as a leader willing to address the pressing needs of Delta State residents. His candidacy thus embodies a strategic opportunity for the APC to put forth a serious contender capable of rallying the support required to win an election.
In contrast, Festus Keyamo—another figure discussed as a potential APC candidate—lacks the local support base essential for a competitive campaign in Delta State. Despite his prominence at the federal level, having served as a minister under the immediate past and current administrations, Keyamo has yet to establish a strong political foothold within the state. His work as a minister has not translated into tangible benefits or a loyal following within Delta, nor has he cultivated relationships with the local APC members who are critical to any successful state campaign. The absence of grassroots support poses a significant disadvantage for Keyamo, who would likely struggle to resonate with voters who prioritize a candidate deeply rooted in and engaged with Delta’s local dynamics.
Keyamo’s limited influence in the state becomes even more apparent when compared to Omo-Agege. While Keyamo’s achievements at the federal level are notable, they have not been accompanied by a visible commitment to fostering connections within Delta. The few people who secured appointments through him appear to view these as isolated personal gains rather than part of a larger, community-centred vision for the state. Without a strong support base within Delta’s local communities or a track record of engagement with the APC’s state membership, Keyamo lacks the foundational elements needed to inspire a robust and effective campaign.
The APC’s leadership now faces a critical decision: rally behind a candidate who can connect with the local electorate, or continue with factional disputes that weaken the party’s overall potential. The path to becoming a formidable opposition to the PDP lies in prioritizing a leader capable of bridging divisions and engaging voters across Delta’s diverse regions. With his broad appeal and deeper connections in the state, Omo-Agege offers the APC a stronger platform on which to build such a campaign. He embodies the qualities of a unifying figure who can create a locally resonant campaign and engage effectively with a wide spectrum of voters.
The APC’s viability as a political force in Delta State hinges on its ability to transcend internal rivalries and focus on the greater goal of presenting a compelling alternative to the PDP. To succeed, the party must rally behind a candidate with the experience, local appeal, and ability to connect with voters on issues that matter most to them—qualities that Omo-Agege exhibits far more prominently than his counterpart. If the APC is to capitalize on the growing demand for change in Delta State, it must prioritize unity and leverage Omo-Agege’s strengths to craft a campaign that can resonate with the people. By aligning behind a candidate with genuine grassroots support, the APC could transform itself from a divided opposition into a serious contender for leadership in Delta State.
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