How Delta APC primaries spark dynasty politics debate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections in Delta State have sparked a fierce debate over political dynasty, with critics alleging that former governors and their families are consolidating power. The elections saw Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of former Governor James Ibori, secure a House of Representatives ticket, while Orode Uduaghan, daughter of Emmanuel Uduaghan, and Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, daughter of Ifeanyi Okowa, also won nominations for state House of Assembly seats. These outcomes have intensified concerns that political power in Delta is being inherited rather than earned through open competition. The controversy has deepened following high-profile defections, including former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege and Victor Ochei, who left the APC amid dissatisfaction with the party’s internal processes. Critics argue that the primaries favored candidates with family ties to former governors, undermining democratic principles. Former Speaker Ochei has been vocal in opposing what he describes as an exclusive political system that excludes aspirants without established connections. The three former governors—James Ibori (1999–2007), Emmanuel Uduaghan (2007–2015), and Ifeanyi Okowa (2015–2023)—remain influential, with their allies dominating key nominations. Okowa’s emergence as the APC senatorial candidate for Delta North, alongside his daughter Osazuwa contesting another position, has further fueled accusations of power concentration. Observers note that the party’s consensus arrangements appear to prioritize candidates linked to these political families over other qualified aspirants. Aggrieved party members argue that while the daughters of former governors are constitutionally eligible, the circumstances surrounding their nominations raise questions about fairness and equal opportunity. The debate has extended beyond the APC, with critics emphasizing the need for a level playing field in Delta’s political landscape. Supporters of the current arrangement defend it as a natural progression of political influence, but opponents insist it threatens democratic participation and youth engagement in governance.