Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has been described by veteran journalist and media consultant Norbert Chiazor as a leading contender for the Delta North senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general election.
Chiazor, a former chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, made the assessment while discussing the emerging political contest in the district, which is also known as Anioma.
Okowa, who is seeking the Senate seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC), is expected to face Victor Ochei of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), whom Chiazor identified as a major challenger.
The journalist attributed Okowa’s political standing to his grassroots connections, experience in public office, organizational network and relationships across the Anioma communities.
Chiazor Recalls Okowa’s Political Journey
Chiazor traced Okowa’s influence in the region to his political activities before the 2015 governorship election.
He recalled that the Anioma Congress organized a screening exercise in 2014 to assess aspirants from Delta North seeking to become governor. The exercise was reportedly overseen by a committee headed by technocrat Philip Asiodu.
According to Chiazor, Okowa stood out during the process because of his intelligence, political experience, personal qualities and understanding of public affairs.
He argued that Okowa’s eventual emergence as governor and his completion of two terms further strengthened his place in Delta State’s political history.
Okowa became the first person of Anioma origin to govern Delta State, a milestone Chiazor said continued to influence how many people in the region viewed the former governor’s political relevance.
Okowa and Ochei Face Different Political Arguments
Assessing the potential contest between Okowa and Ochei, Chiazor argued that the former governor’s established political network and experience in electoral contests gave him an advantage.
“Ochei is good. Okowa is better, by far,” he said.
However, the assessment represents Chiazor’s personal view of the race and does not establish how voters across Delta North intend to vote in 2027.
The contest is expected to feature competing arguments over political experience, previous public service, legislative representation and the need for fresh leadership.
As preparations for the 2027 election continue, the candidates will need to convince voters across the district’s communities of what they can offer if elected to the Senate.
