A large crowd of party faithful and stakeholders gathered in Ughelli on Sunday as Senator Ede Dafinone formally declared his intention to seek re-election for a second term, marking an early start to political mobilization within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta Central Senatorial District.
The declaration, held at Oharisi Primary School, Ughelli, on Sunday, drew widespread participation from party leaders, grassroots supporters, and political stakeholders, effectively bringing commercial activities in the area to a temporary halt.
Addressing the gathering, Dafinone expressed appreciation for the turnout and reaffirmed his commitment to service, integrity, and accountability. He noted that these values have guided his legislative conduct and constituency engagements.
Reflecting on his time in office, the Senator outlined achievements in human capital development and infrastructure support, including empowerment programmes, assistance to small-scale businesses, distribution of electricity transformers, establishment of ICT centres in schools, and medical outreach initiatives across communities in the district.
The Delta Central Senator also highlighted ongoing advocacy for key infrastructure projects such as the Sapele Seaport and improved road networks, describing them as critical to unlocking economic opportunities in Delta Central.
Formally announcing his intention, Dafinone said his re-election bid is driven by the need to consolidate ongoing initiatives and expand development efforts across the senatorial district.
The senator used the occasion to declare support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of the 2027 general elections, commending their leadership and policy direction.
In his remarks, Chairman of the APC in Delta Central, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, described the declaration as a demonstration of political accountability, noting that the party would adhere to its established processes in selecting candidates for the elections.
He urged party members to remain united and intensify grassroots mobilization in preparation for the party primaries.
Several party leaders and stakeholders who spoke at the event expressed support for Dafinone’s re-election bid, alongside endorsements for President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.
Dignitaries at the event included Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; member representing Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency, Hon. Francis Waive; former senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo; and other prominent political figures.
