The Elders and Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Isoko Nation have unanimously endorsed Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second term, passing a resounding vote of confidence in his leadership. The endorsement was made during a strategic meeting on April 1, 2025, at the country home of Chief Lucky Jerry Esigie (JP) in Olomoro, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The meeting, attended by key APC stakeholders, reaffirmed Isoko Nation’s commitment to consolidating political gains and securing more developmental projects for the region. Chief Esigie, in his opening remarks, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for appointing Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content. He highlighted how the senator’s position has already attracted key developmental initiatives to Isoko land and Delta South.
Chief Esigie emphasized the need for unity among APC members in Isoko, urging stakeholders to set aside personal ambitions and rally behind Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for continued political relevance and infrastructural growth. “Isoko now has a voice at the national level, but we must remain united to maximize our collective benefits,” he stated.
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The motion for the vote of confidence in Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas was moved by Goddy Ewherode and seconded by Chief Oyibo Panama. With a unanimous decision, the APC Isoko leaders endorsed him for re-election in 2027, describing him as a dedicated representative committed to the progress of his people.
Beyond the endorsement, the meeting also addressed the issue of marginalization of the Isoko ethnic group in federal appointments. The leaders decried the continued exclusion of Isoko indigenes from key national positions despite their contributions to the nation’s economy. In response, they demanded that the Federal Government appoint an Isoko indigene as the Managing Director of the newly established South-South Development Commission, insisting on fair representation for the region.
The meeting concluded with a strong resolve to push for equitable federal appointments and to continue strengthening the APC’s presence in Isoko Nation. The leaders called on party members and social media influencers to avoid divisive rhetoric that could weaken their collective bargaining power, urging all stakeholders to work together for a common goal.
