Delta senator Dafinone declares second term bid

The senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, on Sunday, declared his intention to seek re-election in 2027, drawing widespread support from party leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in the district.

According to a statement made available to our correspondent, the declaration, which took place on Sunday at Oharisi Primary School in Ughelli, attracted a large crowd of party faithful and supporters, bringing activities in the area to a standstill.

Speaking at the event, Dafinone expressed appreciation to his supporter, stating that leadership is anchored on service, integrity and accountability, values he said were instilled in him by his late father, Senator David Dafinone.

Reflecting on his time in office, the lawmaker highlighted achievements, including empowerment programmes, support for small businesses, provision of electricity transformers, establishment of ICT centres in schools, and medical outreach initiatives which benefited residents across the district.

He also noted an ongoing advocacy for strategic infrastructure such as the Sapele seaport, improved road networks and broader economic initiatives aimed at positioning Delta Central for growth.

Dafinone used the occasion to align with national and state leadership, declaring support for President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Today, I stand before you to formally declare my intention to seek re-election to the Senate.

“This journey is not about me, it is about our future. Together, we will do more, create jobs, empower our youths, strengthen education, and build a stronger economy for our people,” he said.

APC Chairman in Delta Central, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, commended the senator for publicly declaring his intention ahead of the party primaries.

Akpeki said the party would follow due process in selecting its candidate, either through consensus or direct primaries, while urging members to mobilise support at the grassroots.

He said, “Leadership must be accountable and visible. He has come before the people to earn their trust. When the time comes, the party will decide, but the people must remain engaged and prepared.”

According to the statement, several party leaders and stakeholders at the event endorsed the re-election bids of Tinubu, Oborevwori and Dafinone for the 2027 elections.

The event also attracted prominent political figures, including Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; House of Representatives member, Francis Waive; Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo; and other party leaders.