Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta South Senatorial Primary Election held on May 18, 2026.
The primary election, conducted across the eight local government areas of the senatorial district, saw party faithful overwhelmingly endorse Senator Joel-Onowakpo as the APC candidate for the 2027 general elections.
In his acceptance speech shortly after the declaration of results, the lawmaker expressed gratitude to God and appreciated party leaders, delegates and supporters for the confidence reposed in him.
He described the victory as a collective triumph for unity, continuity, effective representation and the shared aspirations of the people of Delta South.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo commended the leadership of the APC at both national and state levels, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; the National Chairman of the party, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda; and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for their commitment to internal democracy and the growth of the party.
He also acknowledged the support of the Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Johnson Erijo; APC Delta South Senatorial Chairman, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba; council chairmen, party executives, women and youth groups, as well as stakeholders across the district.
The senator further appreciated the Isoko Development Union (IDU), traditional rulers, clergymen, security agencies, INEC officials and party electoral officials for ensuring a peaceful and credible exercise.
Extending a hand of fellowship to his co-contestants, including Chief Michael Diden (Ejele), Chief Itiako Ikpokpo and Barr. Jay Ogor, Senator Joel-Onowakpo urged all party members to remain united in the collective interest of the APC and the development of Delta South.
He reaffirmed his commitment to quality legislation, effective representation, youth and women empowerment, infrastructural development and policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
According to him, the victory comes with greater responsibility and renewed determination to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Delta South Senatorial District.
