A major political development has shaken the race for the Delta South Senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, as Sir Itiakpo Malik Ikpokpo formally announced his withdrawal from the contest, citing what he described as the growing impossibility of a “free, fair and credible” primary election.
Ikpokpo, who had emerged as one of the strongest alternative voices in the Delta South political landscape, disclosed his decision in a lengthy statement titled “Delta South Senate: The Unfolding Events and My Withdrawal from the Race.”
The APC chieftain said his decision to initially enter the race was driven by widespread dissatisfaction across the eight local government areas of Delta South over what he termed “senatorial underrepresentation” and the widening disconnect between the current representation and the people.
According to him, his aspiration was rooted in the conviction that Delta South deserved more inclusive, responsive and effective representation at the National Assembly.
He explained that after launching consultations across the district with party leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members, his campaign message gained widespread acceptance among party faithful who identified with his promise of inclusive governance under the C.L.U.E Agenda.
Ikpokpo noted that his team traversed the entire senatorial district, engaging communities and presenting a vision centred on accessible representation, effective legislation, empowerment and unity across Delta South.
“Our promise through the C.L.U.E Agenda resonated strongly with the people. In our movement, many saw renewed hope and the missing link in the representation of Delta South,” he stated.
The former aspirant stressed that he had fully complied with all requirements of the APC nomination process, including obtaining and submitting nomination forms and successfully passing the party’s screening exercise.
However, despite fulfilling all conditions to contest, Ikpokpo said political realities within the party eventually forced him to step aside.
“The dynamics of party politics, entrenched political interests, and sundry power play combined to make the prospect of a free, fair, and credible primary election increasingly elusive and impossible,” he declared.
Withdrawal Signals Internal APC Tensions
Political observers view Ikpokpo’s withdrawal as a significant indication of underlying tensions within the APC in Delta South, particularly over internal democracy and the control of party structures ahead of 2027.
Although he refrained from directly accusing any individual or faction, his reference to “entrenched political interests” and “power play” suggests dissatisfaction with the internal processes leading to the party’s senatorial primary.
Analysts say the development may reinforce concerns among party members who have repeatedly demanded more transparent and competitive primaries within political parties in Delta State.
Ikpokpo’s statement also reflects frustration among a segment of APC supporters who believed his candidacy represented a fresh direction capable of energising the party in Delta South.
Despite his withdrawal, Ikpokpo maintained a conciliatory tone, reaffirming his loyalty to the APC and expressing optimism about the party’s future.
“As a firm believer in democracy and a committed party man, I remain optimistic about the future of our great party and look forward to a successful outing for the APC and eventual victory in the 2027 general elections,” he said.
He also called on supporters to remain hopeful and continue backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of the next general elections.
The APC stalwart used the opportunity to appreciate several political leaders and stakeholders across Delta South whom he said stood by him during the consultations and campaign period.
Among those he acknowledged were James Manager, Daniel Reyenieju, Ovuozorie Maculay, Ross Uredi and Askia Ogieh, among others.
He also thanked members of the Delta South Rebirth Movement (DSRM), campaign coordinators, media team and supporters for their commitment to what he described as the “C.L.U.E vision.”
With Ikpokpo’s exit from the race, attention is now expected to shift to how the APC manages internal alignments in Delta South as the battle for the party’s senatorial ticket intensifies ahead of 2027.
