UGHELLI/Nigeria: Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has described his victory at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta Central Senatorial Primary Election as a defining moment for both the party and the people of the district, pledging to justify the confidence reposed in him through effective representation and inclusive leadership.
Dafinone made the declaration in a victory message issued on Monday following his emergence as winner of the APC Delta Central Senatorial primary, where he secured 116,252 votes across the eight local government areas of the district to defeat former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.
The lawmaker, while expressing appreciation to party faithful and supporters, also acknowledged the roles played by Collation Officer, Hon. Dr. Okiemute E. Benjamin; Secretary of the APC National Assembly Primary Committee, Barr. Nusa Amagbor; and committee member, Abimbola Samuel Dart, commending their professionalism and commitment to transparency throughout the exercise.
Describing the primary election as peaceful and credible, Dafinone said the conduct of the exercise reaffirmed democratic values within the APC and reflected the true wishes of party members across Delta Central.
“First of all, let me sincerely commend the process of the primaries, which was conducted in a manner that was transparent, open, free and fair. Delta Central is a highly political terrain, and the peaceful and credible conduct of this exercise has once again demonstrated that democracy is alive and strong within our party,” he stated.
He added that the outcome of the election represented the collective decision of delegates and party faithful across the district.
The senator expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, describing the Delta State Governor and leader of the APC in the state as instrumental to the peaceful conduct of the exercise and the strengthening of unity within the party.
“I wish to specially thank the Executive Governor of Delta State and leader of our party in the state, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his commitment to the unity, stability and progress of the APC in Delta State. His leadership and dedication to ensuring a peaceful process have greatly strengthened the confidence of our members in the party,” he said.
Dafinone also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as inspiring national leadership, while commending the APC National Chairman, members of the National Working Committee and the National Assembly Primary Committee for ensuring a level playing field during the exercise.
He further thanked party elders, women, youths, stakeholders and supporters across Delta Central, stressing that the victory belonged to all loyal party members who believe in unity, progress and the future of the senatorial district.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every loyal party member who believes in unity, progress, inclusion and the future of Delta Central,” he stated.
On the outcome of the primary, Dafinone said the votes recorded across the district underscored the confidence of the people in the vision being championed by his camp.
“With 116,252 votes across the eight local government areas, our party members have spoken loudly and clearly about the direction they desire for the future. I accept this mandate with humility and with a deep sense of responsibility to serve with integrity, courage and dedication,” he added.
In a move aimed at strengthening party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dafinone extended an olive branch to his rival and former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, urging him and his supporters to work together for the success of the APC.
“I want to use this opportunity to extend a hand of fellowship to my brother and distinguished leader, Ovie Omo-Agege. Elections and primaries may come with competition, but at the end of the day, we remain members of one political family with a shared vision for the advancement of Delta State and Nigeria,” he said.
He stressed that the task ahead required collective commitment, noting that the people expected leadership, development, empowerment, security, economic growth and quality representation.
“As your Senator, I remain committed to pursuing policies and programmes that will uplift our people, defend the interests of Delta Central and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he assured.
The senator concluded by thanking party members, supporters and Urhobo leaders for their confidence in him, pledging not to betray the mandate entrusted to him as preparations begin for the 2027 elections.
