Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, has defended the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary in Delta North, where former governor Ifeanyi Okowa defeated incumbent Senator Ned Nwoko by a wide margin.
Speaking with journalists on Thursday, Aniagwu dismissed claims that the exercise was manipulated, insisting that the result reflected the genuine will of party members. He maintained that there was no manipulation or “magic counting” in the conduct of the primary.
He attributed Okowa’s victory to strong grassroots support and long-standing relationships within the party structure, saying the former governor has consistently engaged and empowered stakeholders across the district over the years.
Aniagwu also noted that local politics is often driven by loyalty and continuous engagement, pointing out that Delta North has over 150,000 registered APC members. According to him, voter behaviour in such contests is shaped by familiarity, trust, and sustained political presence.
The commissioner, however, faulted Senator Nwoko, alleging that he did not adequately consult or engage key stakeholders in the district. He claimed the senator relied more on support from political figures in Abuja rather than building strong grassroots connections at home.
He further argued that many constituents felt Nwoko had not effectively represented Delta North in the National Assembly, while Okowa’s local engagement contributed to his overwhelming victory of 113,309 votes against Nwoko’s 2,612 votes and Mariam Ali’s 40 votes. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed the National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027.
Elijah Adeyemi
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