Delta North APC Torn as Leaders Clash Over Nwoko’s Second Term Endorsement

A major internal rift has emerged within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta North over the recent endorsement of Senator Ned Nwoko for a second term in the Senate.

The controversy began on June 14, when a forum of APC ward and local government chairmen from the nine local councils of Delta North gathered at Nwoko’s country home to endorse him. The meeting, attended by the Delta North APC Chairman, Chief Adizue Eluaka, was seen as a significant show of unity and strength.

However, the endorsement soon drew backlash. Under pressure from unnamed party figures, Eluaka reportedly withdrew his support and described the group as unauthorized. He subsequently ordered the dissolution of the forum that had championed Nwoko’s re-election.

In response, APC stakeholders and executives from Nwoko’s base in Aniocha North reaffirmed their support for him, accusing internal detractors of political sabotage and external manipulation. They issued a joint statement endorsing Nwoko’s re-election bid, praising his performance and accessibility.

They also lauded their local party chairman, Mr. Matthew Chinye, for refusing to back the opposing stance and for defending what they described as the will of the people.

Senator Nwoko, reacting to the controversy, asserted that the endorsement took place during a monthly stakeholders’ meeting of the Delta North APC, which was attended by over 7,000 members and key leaders including the state and senatorial chairmen.

He dismissed the opposition by a few local chairmen, stating that they failed to consult their local executives before signing the dissenting document and were present at the endorsement meeting without raising any objections.

Nwoko emphasized that a motion for a vote of confidence was passed unanimously in favor of President Tinubu, the Delta State Governor, and himself.