DELTA SOUTH 2027: IKPOKPO INTENSIFIES ENGAGEMENT, CONSULTS ISOKO DEVELOPMENT UNION, TRADITIONAL RULERS.
Former Director-General of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and businessman, Sir Itiako Malik Ikpokpo, KSM, on Saturday, April 11, continued his consultation drive with a visit to the leadership of the Isoko Development Union (IDU), the apex socio-cultural body of the Isoko nation. and. Isoko traditional rulers.
The engagement forms part of his ongoing consultations ahead of his aspiration to contest for the Delta South Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ikpokpo, a two-term Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area and former ALGON Chairman in Delta State, was received by a large and enthusiastic crowd. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that his ambition is anchored on a clearly defined and measurable framework—the C.L.U.E Agenda, which represents Communication, Legislation, Unity, and Empowerment.
He observed that Delta South has experienced noticeable gaps in communication, accessibility, and responsive leadership over the past three years, pledging to bridge these gaps through a structured and interactive engagement system from his first day in office.
“Leadership must go beyond occupying positions—it must translate into real impact in the lives of our people and ensure their voices are heard at the highest levels. My voice will echo,” he stated.
In separate remarks, representatives of the Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Urhobo communities from Warri South and Patani reaffirmed their support for Ikpokpo’s aspiration, urging the Isoko nation to align with the growing regional consensus.
President of the Isoko Development Union, Prof. Chris Akpotu, commended Ikpokpo’s consultative approach and the inclusive spirit demonstrated by the presence of leaders from across Delta South ethnic nationalities. He noted that the Isoko nation would undertake broader internal consultations and stakeholders engagement before reaching a collective decision.
Also speaking, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, HRM Anthony Uvietobore Ogbogbo, Ibuka I, urged stakeholders to approach the political process with maturity and responsibility, stressing that leadership decisions must be guided by experience, competence, and proven track record.
“Politics is a serious business. It requires more than interest; it demands depth, understanding, and careful judgment. People must think deeply and make informed decisions,” the monarch advised.
The monarch further expressed personal confidence in Ikpokpo, describing him as a tested and credible leader.
“I hold him in high regard. He has demonstrated leadership across various capacities. Those familiar with his track record can attest to his credibility. He is someone who can be trusted to deliver,” he added.
In his prayers, HRM Romanus Inana, the Odiologbo of Owhe Kingdom, invoked divine guidance, protection, and success for Ikpokpo throughout the electioneering period and beyond.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the Odiologbo of Irri Kingdom, the Ovie of Igbide Kingdom, the Ovie of Okpolo-Enwhe Kingdom, the Ovie of Okpe-Isoko Kingdom, Chief Iduh Amadhe, community Presidents-General, prominent Isoko leaders, and a large turnout of men, women, and youths.