ASABA/Nigeria: Fresh permutations are emerging in Oshimili South Constituency as Hon. Bridget Anyafulu has made an early and calculated entry into the 2027 race, signalling her intention to retain her seat while moving decisively to consolidate control of the All Progressives Congress (APC) grassroots machinery.
The Delta State lawmaker unveiled her second-term ambition at a closed-door consultation with party stakeholders at the APC Local Government Secretariat, drawing key ward leaders, executives and political foot soldiers in what analysts interpret as a strategic effort to solidify loyalty and pre-empt internal dissent.
Speaking to party faithful, Anyafulu adopted a measured tone, blending appreciation with subtle political signalling, as she acknowledged the mandate given to her while positioning herself as the candidate of continuity.
“I want to thank everybody in this hall today for granting me the privilege to serve the people of Oshimili South. I will remain internally grateful to you all. Thank you,” she said.
In a move seen as reinforcing alignment with power blocs, she praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, linking her legislative efforts to prevailing governance priorities at both federal and state levels.
“I also want to thank his Excellence, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu for what he is doing in this country and for all the kindness he has extended to Delta State.
“I want to also thank his Excellence Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the excellent and working Governor of Delta State,” she added.
While avoiding overt campaign rhetoric, the lawmaker used the engagement to reinforce her presence at the grassroots, highlighting targeted interventions designed to maintain political goodwill and voter connection across the constituency.
Her initiatives in education, including the distribution of learning materials and introduction of school farming programmes, have been framed as both social support and long-term community investment.
In the health sector, her facilitation of over 1,200 enrollees into the state health insurance scheme has bolstered her standing among vulnerable groups, a demographic considered critical in local electoral dynamics.
Economic interventions targeting petty traders and small business operators have also strengthened her grassroots appeal, particularly amid prevailing economic pressures.
She further underscored efforts at inclusivity, including support for persons living with disabilities, as well as facilitation of employment opportunities, moves observers say are gradually expanding her political base.
Infrastructure interventions, especially in road development, have also featured in her engagement narrative, reinforcing her claim to effective representation.
Political watchers note that the timing of her declaration is significant, coming well ahead of formal party primaries, a move widely interpreted as an attempt to shape the internal contest and limit the space for potential challengers within the APC.
In his remarks, APC Local Government Chairman, Chief Dada Okolo, offered what many consider a tacit endorsement, commending her performance and urging her to remain steadfast.
“Continue your excellent work. We commend the remarkable impact you have made so far and encourage you to remain steadfast on this path,” he said.
He added, “Keep representing Oshimili South with distinction and pride. When we want to send someone to represent us, we send someone who is grounded, someone who knows the way and is familiar with the leadership of the state.”
