By Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR
The recent calls for peace and reconciliation by Senator Ede Dafinone within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State have been met with sharp criticism and outright rejection by party stakeholders, particularly from the Ethiope East LGA APC grassroots.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Okakuro (Dr.) Joseph Tedwins Emudainohwo, a prominent voice within the party, Senator Dafinone was accused of insincerity and political opportunism. The statement described his reconciliation efforts as a calculated move borne out of desperation rather than genuine contrition.
According to Dr. Emudainohwo, Senator Dafinone’s sudden call for unity comes only after his alleged schemes to undermine the influence of H.E. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege failed. The statement highlights that Senator Omo-Agege played a pivotal role in securing Dafinone’s senatorial victory after three unsuccessful attempts, only to be repaid with what was described as “treachery.”
The allegations against Dafinone include conspiring with political detractors, supporting an unconstitutional “college of leaders” aimed at disrupting Omo-Agege’s gubernatorial aspirations, and working to weaken the party’s cohesion. Furthermore, he was accused of attempting to recruit known adversaries of Senator Omo-Agege into the APC ranks to create internal discord.
Dr. Emudainohwo also referenced an incident involving Dafinone’s Chief of Staff, Chief Adelabu Bodjor, who allegedly mistreated a delegation from Ethiope East LGA, telling constituents to “go to hell.” This incident, he noted, remains unresolved and further fuels distrust towards Dafinone’s reconciliatory moves.
The grassroots faction insists that true reconciliation can only begin with public accountability. The statement outlined specific conditions for Senator Dafinone to regain trust, including a public renunciation of the “college of leaders,” severing ties with opposition collaborators, and issuing an unreserved apology to the party’s grassroots.
Until these conditions are met, the APC grassroots in Delta State remain resolute in their support for Senator Ovie Omo-Agege as their preferred gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 elections. They have vowed not to be distracted by what they term as “disingenuous theatrics” and “self-preservation tactics” employed by Dafinone and his allies.
The party’s grassroots movement maintains that the 2027 general election will be determined by their collective will, not by political maneuvering behind closed doors.
As tensions remain high within the APC in Delta State, all eyes will be on how the party navigates its internal strife ahead of the crucial 2027 elections.