By Rita Mokobia.
ASABA/Nigeria: The political influence of former governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa once again came to the forefront in Asaba as youths from across Delta North publicly adopted him as their preferred candidate for the Delta North Senatorial seat under the All Progressives Congress, declaring that his experience, leadership style, and political legacy remain unmatched in the region.
The endorsement took place during the Delta North College of Youths’ “One Day Youth Engagement Programme,” a gathering that drew a wide spectrum of youth groups, community leaders, student bodies, and political stakeholders from across the senatorial district.
The event quickly transformed from a routine youth engagement into a strong political statement as chants of solidarity and support echoed through the venue, with many participants describing Okowa as a tested leader whose political relevance continues to shape conversations about the future of Delta North.
The coalition of youths behind the adoption comprised the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Christian Association of Nigeria Youth Wing, Community Youth Associations, Non-Indigene Associations, Female Youth Associations, Political Youth Leaders, and various Student Union Bodies.
Addressing the gathering, Okowa dismissed what he described as political distractions from individuals in Abuja claiming to speak for Anioma youths in support of Ned Nwoko, insisting that such groups do not reflect the true voice and political direction of the people at home.
The former governor reportedly described them as “noise makers,” stressing that the real strength of Anioma politics remains rooted among the grassroots and the people who understand the developmental needs and political aspirations of the region.
In what appeared to be a strategic show of confidence in emerging leaders within the APC fold in Delta State, Okowa also commended several members of the state executive council for what he described as impactful performances in their respective offices.
He specifically praised the Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka, the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Daniel Odigie, and the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads), Charles Aniagwu, noting that they have continued to justify the confidence reposed in them through visible contributions to governance and development.
Okowa further applauded Nnamdi Ezechi for what he described as quality representation and sustained connection with constituents, saying the lawmaker has continued to distinguish himself through effective service delivery and accessibility to the people.
The former governor also used the occasion to publicly introduce Emmanuel Isazuwa as the next APC candidate for the Ika Federal Constituency, a declaration that immediately sparked excitement among supporters and political stakeholders present at the event.
Political observers believe the endorsement signals the beginning of strategic political alignments ahead of future elections, with Okowa once again demonstrating his ability to shape conversations and influence political direction within Delta North and beyond.
Many of the youth leaders at the programme praised Okowa’s years of public service, citing his tenure as governor, senator, and grassroots politician as evidence of what they described as “a leadership journey rooted in experience, accessibility, and development.”
They noted that beyond politics, Okowa had built lasting relationships with young people through empowerment initiatives, educational support programmes, and opportunities that helped shape the next generation of leaders across Delta State.
For many attendees, Okowa’s presence in Delta politics remains larger than office or title.
To them, he represents continuity, structure, and a familiar political force capable of commanding loyalty across generations.
As the gathering drew to a close, the atmosphere carried the unmistakable tone of a political movement gathering momentum once again around a familiar figure. And in the eyes of many young supporters gathered in Asaba, Ifeanyi Okowa is no longer just a former governor seeking relevance — he is steadily re-emerging as the political compass around which the future of Delta North may once again revolve.
