By Austin Oyibode
In a powerful endorsement that could reshape Delta North’s political landscape, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has thrown its full weight behind Senator Ned Nwoko for the 2027 senatorial election, describing him as “the unanimous choice of the Igbo nation.”
In a statement signed by its National Spokesman, Chief Thompson Ohia, and issued on April 24, 2025, Ohanaeze hailed Nwoko’s leadership as a “beacon of hope” for the Anioma people and praised his unwavering commitment to the Igbo cause, particularly his advocacy for the creation of Anioma State.
The organization stressed that Nwoko’s support for Anioma State is not a mere political slogan but “a heartfelt embodiment of the legitimate aspirations of the Igbo people,” while expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would act on the long-standing demand for state creation ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, Ohanaeze’s endorsement came with sharp warnings and veiled criticism directed at former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
The group urged Okowa to abandon any plans of contesting the Delta North Senate seat, suggesting that such a move would be perceived as political backsliding after his unsuccessful vice presidential bid in 2023.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo believes that supporting Senator Nwoko at this time aligns with the collective will of the Anioma people. Anything less would be a betrayal of our shared aspirations,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze went further to question Okowa’s record, accusing him of a visible detachment from Igbo cultural and political initiatives during his eight-year tenure as governor.
The organization claimed Okowa’s alleged indifference to Igbo causes weakened his credibility among his own people, contrasting sharply with Nwoko’s rising profile as an “authentic voice for the Igbo agenda.”
Citing a poignant quote from Igbo leader Omenazu Jackson, “A leader becomes a monumental suspect if his aspirations and conduct are antithetical to the people he claims to lead”, Ohanaeze underscored the need for true representation rooted in community service, not personal ambition.
Declaring that there is “no vacancy” in Delta North for 2027, the group affirmed its commitment to ensuring Senator Nwoko’s re-election, warning that the era of “third eleven” political figures is over.
As the race toward 2027 begins to take shape, Ohanaeze’s bold declaration sets a new standard for political accountability in Delta North, signaling that ethnic loyalty, cultural authenticity, and community-driven leadership will be the decisive factors, not just political muscle or past titles.