As an official delegate to the APC State Congress holding tomorrow in Asaba, and as a longstanding and committed party member, I consider it necessary to share my considered position on the ongoing conversations surrounding the emergence of our State Chairman.
In recent days, there has been intense debate, particularly on social media, regarding which senatorial district should produce the next State Chairman and whether longevity in the party should be the primary qualification for the office. While I respect diverse opinions, I believe our decisions must be guided by prudence, party stability, and the long-term interest of Delta State.
Our people say, “ìsìànù kà wà nòr àchò mkpùlùànyàà” — it is on the head of the animal that one searches for the eyes. The Governor, as the political head of the party in the state, represents that “head.” It is therefore consistent with our established political culture of zoning and power balancing that party leadership decisions should reinforce, not undermine, stability at the centre.
The Governor is from Delta Central, while the Deputy Governor is from Delta North. For the sake of political equilibrium and to preserve the rotational understanding that has sustained peace in our multi-ethnic state, it is both strategic and stabilizing that the office of State Party Chairman also remain in Delta South at this time. This model has, over the years, reduced unnecessary tensions and safeguarded loyalty within the system, ensuring continuity in governance and development.
The argument that party offices should be determined solely by length of membership is, with respect, unconvincing. Longevity does not automatically translate to capacity. What the party requires at this critical moment is competence, maturity, and the ability to work harmoniously with the Governor and other stakeholders. A Chairman must consolidate, not divide; strengthen, not distract.
The party caucus has already undertaken zoning in line with established practice, and the senatorial districts have further micro-zoned positions to local government areas. Ultimately, the Congress remains the final authority, and delegates will exercise their votes accordingly.
In view of these considerations, I will tomorrow cast my vote at the Delta State APC Congress in Asaba for Chief Solomon Areyenka of Delta South Senatorial District — a gentleman of proven capacity and temperament, whom I believe can provide the steady and cooperative leadership our party requires at this time.
May our decisions continue to promote unity, stability, and progress in Delta State.
