By Jude Opara
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed confidence in the political strength of Senator , describing him as a respected figure in Urhoboland whose family legacy continues to command widespread support.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, monitored in Abuja, Oborevwori dismissed suggestions that former Deputy Senate President could pose a significant political challenge in Delta State ahead of the 2027 elections.
The governor argued that Dafinone’s emergence as the APC candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District reflected the outcome of a transparent primary process and should be respected by all party stakeholders.
“The man who got the ticket in my party, Senator Ede Dafinone, is a gentleman. They have a reputation. Dafinone is a big name. Dafinone is a big name in the Urhobo nation because his father was a Senator and he has contributed to the development of Delta State. So that legacy is there,” Oborevwori said.
According to the governor, the APC primary election was conducted fairly and transparently, adding that every contestant should accept the verdict of party members.
“Somebody was given the opportunity, we conducted a free and fair primary and he lost. It is for him to embrace the outcome because the process was transparent. Very transparent. I am a democrat, so it was transparent,” he stated.
Oborevwori also downplayed concerns over the political implications of Omo-Agege’s resignation from the APC, insisting that the former Deputy Senate President does not represent a threat to the party’s prospects in Delta Central.
“He is not a threat because I have won it before,” the governor declared.
He revealed that Omo-Agege’s departure from the party did not come as a surprise, claiming that many of his supporters had already left months earlier, making his eventual exit predictable.
“I will not use the word pretentious, but we saw it coming. Before he left, most of his people had already left over three months ago, so we were all aware,” he said.
The governor further criticised Omo-Agege’s approach to the APC senatorial primary, alleging that he failed to consult party leaders and stakeholders before seeking the ticket.
Oborevwori contrasted that approach with his own consultations before seeking a second term as governor, stressing the importance of consensus-building and respect for Delta State’s zoning arrangement.
He also cited the performance of his administration as a key factor behind his confidence in the party’s electoral prospects, pointing to achievements in infrastructure and security.
“For me, I don’t think he is a threat because we are doing well as a state. What will make people support your party is what you are doing and what you are able to do. In terms of infrastructure, we are doing well. In terms of security, we are doing our best. You must have something to campaign with,” he said.
The governor’s remarks come amid growing political realignments in Delta State following Omo-Agege’s departure from the APC and increasing speculation over the shape of alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
