Nwoko Faces Political Challenges in Delta North Contest

In the Delta North Senatorial contest, Ned Nwoko, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), experienced a significant defeat in the primary elections held on May 18, 2026, where he received 2,612 votes compared to Ifeanyi Okowa's 113,309 votes. Allegations of electoral manipulation and rigging have surfaced, with Nwoko's camp blaming the state government for his loss.

They argue that Nwoko's disconnect from grassroots politics and lack of support from local party members contributed to his defeat. Okowa, a former governor, remains a powerful political figure in Delta North, possessing a robust grassroots network.

Victor Ochei, the former speaker of the state House of Assembly, has also emerged as a significant competitor. The political landscape indicates a complex rivalry among Nwoko, Okowa, and Ochei, with the potential for a split in votes that could influence future elections.

Nwoko's political journey is now marked by the need to address these challenges to secure a return to the Senate in 2027.