• Admits Delta APC made mistakes in 2023

From Joe Obukata Ogbodu, Warri

Former Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate and Delta State APC governorship candidate in the last election, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has assured APC faithful, chieftains, stakeholders, and leaders that all internal party issues raised would be addressed to pave the way for a resounding victory in all elections in 2027.

Omo-Agege gave the assurance during an interactive stakeholders’ meeting in Patani, Patani Local Government Area of the state, attended by party members, stakeholders, and leaders from across the state.

Reaffirming his commitment to more inclusive leadership in the Delta APC, he assured party leaders and members that APC will adopt a more participatory approach to decision-making, giving every stakeholder a voice.

He, however, admitted that the party made some mistakes in the last general election, adding that political conflicts and internal crises are inevitable in a political setting but that the party is now more ready than ever before to work through these challenges to strengthen its machinery.

“We must build bridges, foster dialogue, and promote understanding among our members. By doing so, we will create a more united, cohesive, and formidable party that can deliver victory in future elections,” he said.

The APC leader noted that his renewed commitment focuses on inclusivity to harness diverse perspectives, accommodate all interests, and empower stakeholders to contribute to the party’s future direction.

“I don’t claim to have a monopoly on good ideas. It’s through conversations like these that we can come up with better solutions to move our party and state forward.”

He said that the meeting was part of his statewide ‘thank-you tour’, aimed at reviewing the party’s performance in the last elections, identifying mistakes, and correcting them ahead of the 2027 elections.

While acknowledging past mistakes, he noted, “We’ve made mistakes, but what’s important is that we’re engaging in stakeholder discussions. This is an opportunity for us to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and refine our strategies. We must work together to build a stronger, more united party that truly represents the interests of all Deltans.”

Omo-Agege thanked APC members and voters in Patani for their unwavering support despite facing intimidation and hostility from opposing forces.

He acknowledged the hardships and sacrifices made by some members, including physical attacks and harassment, and expressed gratitude for their dedication and perseverance.

“I sincerely thank you all for standing by me and our party. Your support is truly incredible, and I’m proud that you voted not just for me, but for our President, Senator, and House of Assembly candidate. Your unwavering support means the world to me,” he said. Omo-Agege also assured the party faithful that addressing the issues they raised would pave the way for a resounding victory in all elections in 2027.

The Delta APC governorship candidate emphasised the critical role women play in politics, assuring APC women that the party will support and recognise them as vital stakeholders.

“Women are the backbone of our party and our communities,” he said.

“They play a crucial role in elections, and we must ensure they receive the support and recognition they deserve. I assure you that the concerns raised by our women leaders will be addressed, and we will work tirelessly to promote gender inclusivity and empowerment within our party,” he pledged.

He, however, charged party faithful to work towards unity at the unit and ward levels, noting that internal crises would be resolved, and Delta APC would emerge stronger and more resilient.

The former Deputy Senate President also assured party loyalists that their hard work and sacrifices would not go unnoticed, promising recognition and rewards for those who have stood by the party.

“We will ensure that those who have worked tirelessly for our party are recognised and rewarded. We appreciate your dedication, perseverance, and commitment to our shared vision. We will continue to stand by you as we move forward, together, towards a brighter future for Delta State and our great party,” he said.