Delta APC begins reconciliation drive ahead of 2027 elections

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has begun efforts to reconcile aggrieved members and strengthen its grassroots structure as preparations gather pace for the 2027 general elections.

Party leaders made the decision during the APC Delta North Stakeholders’ Meeting held on Friday in Asaba, where discussions focused on building unity and improving the party’s chances in the next elections.

Speaking at the meeting, Delta State Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme urged party leaders to reconnect with aspirants who were unsuccessful during the party’s primaries and members who felt left out of party activities. He said every member would be needed if the APC hoped to achieve its political goals in the state.

Onyeme called on party members to put aside personal disagreements and work together for the common interest of the APC. He said those who did not secure party tickets should still be carried along and given opportunities to contribute to the party’s campaigns and other activities ahead of the elections.

The deputy governor also expressed support for the proposed establishment of state police, describing it as an important step toward improving security across the country. He said the Nigeria Police Force alone could not adequately cover every community because of the country’s size and population.

According to him, state police would help governments respond faster to security challenges while supporting the work of the federal police.

During the meeting, stakeholders also endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second terms in office in the 2027 elections. The motion was presented by the APC House of Representatives candidate for Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and received support from other party members before it was adopted.

Former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, also backed the creation of state police. He said discussions on the issue had been ongoing for many years without implementation. Okowa explained that state police should work alongside the Nigeria Police Force to improve security and enable state governments to respond more effectively to local security concerns.

He also urged APC leaders to strengthen reconciliation efforts and increase their engagement with residents at the grassroots. According to him, party members should move beyond meetings and interact directly with communities, socio-cultural groups and other local organisations to rebuild public confidence ahead of the elections.

The Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Areyenka, and the Delta North Chairman, Mr. Dan Ossai, also appealed to members to remain united and committed to the party’s growth.

The meeting ended with renewed calls for reconciliation, stronger grassroots mobilisation and internal unity as the APC continues preparations for the 2027 general elections.