ASABA/Nigeria: A frontline aspirant for the Delta South Senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sir Malik Itiako Ikpokpo, KSM, has formally withdrawn from the contest ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 general elections.
Ikpokpo, who is the Clan Otota of Irri Kingdom, announced his withdrawal after what he described as extensive consultations with critical stakeholders, respected party leaders, political associates and members of his campaign team.
In a statement personally signed by him, the APC chieftain said his initial decision to join the race was motivated by the growing dissatisfaction and feeling of underrepresentation among constituents across the eight local government areas of Delta South Senatorial District.
According to him, there was an urgent need for a more responsive and inclusive representation capable of reconnecting the people with the ideals and responsibilities of democratic governance.
He explained that his aspiration was also driven by his belief that representation in the district could be improved through effective communication, people-oriented legislation, empowerment initiatives and stronger unity among the diverse ethnic and political interests within Delta South.
Ikpokpo disclosed that as part of his consultations and grassroots mobilization efforts, he and members of his team traversed the eight local government areas of the senatorial district, engaging party leaders, stakeholders, executives and members of the APC on what he described as his vision for purposeful representation.
He noted that his campaign message, anchored on the C.L.U.E Agenda, received wide acceptance among party faithful and supporters who identified with his call for inclusive governance and renewed political direction for Delta South.
“Our promise through the C.L.U.E Agenda resonated strongly with the people. In our movement, many saw renewed hope and the missing link in the representation of Delta South,” he stated.
The APC stalwart further revealed that he had obtained, completed and submitted the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination forms and was duly screened and cleared to participate in the primary election.
However, he lamented that prevailing political realities within the party made the prospect of a free, fair and credible contest increasingly difficult.
“Unfortunately, this was never to be. The dynamics of party politics, entrenched political interests, and sundry power play combined to make the prospect of a free, fair, and credible primary election increasingly elusive and impossible,” he said.
Despite stepping down from the race, Ikpokpo reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed optimism about the future of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to the success of the APC at both the state and national levels.
The former aspirant also called on Nigerians to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of the 2027 polls.
Ikpokpo expressed profound gratitude to several political leaders and stakeholders across Delta South whom he acknowledged for their support, guidance and encouragement throughout the consultation period.
Among those he appreciated were James Manager, Hon. Chief Daniel Reyenieju, Chief Ovuozorie Macaulay, Dr. Joseph Otumara, Chief Ross Uredi, Chief Askia Ogieh, Chief Pius Malaka, Rt. Hon. Solomon Funkekeme, Chief Eta Enahoro, Chief Clement Money, Hon. Daniel Yingi and Rev. Canon David Otofia.
He also specially acknowledged his “dear brother and friend,” Chiedu Ebie, Esq., as well as Dr. Festus Goziem Okubor for their support during the political journey.
Ikpokpo further commended members of the Delta South Rebirth Movement (DSRM), led by Deacon Andrew Megbele, PhD, alongside members of the C.L.U.E Agenda Campaign Team, local government and ward coordinators, media aides and supporters for their commitment and sacrifices.
“As we move forward, let us remain hopeful in the opportunities that democratic governance continues to provide and steadfast in our belief that tomorrow holds even greater prospects for our people,” he stated.
Political observers say Ikpokpo’s withdrawal may significantly reshape the political permutations within the APC ahead of the Delta South Senatorial primaries and the broader 2027 electoral contest in the state.
