Emami says Oborevwori pledges fairness in Delta APC primary elections

Sylvester Idowu in Warri 

Chief Ayirimi Emami, a Delta State chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori assured him that he will remain neutral in the party’s upcoming primaries ahead of the 2027 general election.

He explained that the governor pledged neutrality for the APC primaries covering senatorial, House of Representatives, and state House of Assembly seats in Delta State.

Emami made the comments over the weekend while addressing journalists at his residence in Egbokodo, Warri, during the Ologbotsere Day celebration.

He said he had previously submitted his preferred candidates for the Delta South Senatorial District, Warri Federal Constituency, Warri South Constituency I, and Warri South‑West Constituency ahead of the elections.

“I told the governor that it is Ejele (Hon. Michael Diden) I support for the Delta South Senatorial seat, Hon. Mofe Edema for Warri South Constituency I, and Dr. Andrew Igban for Warri South‑West Constituency,” Emami said.

He added that Oborevwori responded by confirming his neutrality and urging all aspirants to compete through the party’s primary elections.

“He said we should go for the primary elections. That means neutrality,” Emami stated.

The APC chieftain reiterated his backing of various aspirants, noting that his involvement in Warri politics stems from both personal and political connections.

He also expressed support for holding primaries for most legislative positions, while acknowledging that internal party arrangements exist in some constituencies.

Regarding the delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom said the process is acceptable provided it follows the proper legal procedures.

“Itsekiri is not against ward and unit delineation, but the legal process must be followed,” he said.

He emphasized that the Itsekiri people remain committed to peace with neighbouring ethnic groups and called on security agencies to address any threats to existing agreements.

The Olorogun of Warri Kingdom, Chief Michael Odeli, and the Public Relations Officer of the Itsekiri National Youth Council (INYC), Tuoyo Ebigbeyi, pledged support for Emami’s political stance and his preferred candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

They described his selections as part of an effort to position credible leadership for the upcoming polls.