IGC to APC: We’ll not allow the disqualification of aspirants of Itsekiri extraction, go unchallenged

The leadership of Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition, IGC, has expressed disappointment over the disqualification of qualified aspirants of Itsekiri extraction by Delta State Screening Committee of All Progressives Congress, APC, saying they will not “allow such injustice to go unchallenged.”
 

The National Coordinator of Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition, Prince Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema, who made the vow in Warri, Thursday May 14, during inauguration of the Warri South Chapter of Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition, noted that while they respect the fact that party primaries and screening processes remain the internal affairs of the AhowPC, it is unbelievable how a sitting Member of the Delta State House of Assembly, representing Warri North, was screened out and “the most qualified Itsekiri aspirant in Warri South-West State Constituency” was disqualified  “in favour of the current Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.”

A Cross session of members of IGC, during the inauguration

Prince Edema, who was represented by Comr. Ben Eburajolo, disclosed: “We have also resolved not to endorse any aspirant or candidate in Warri North and Warri South Constituency I at this stage, as the contests are mainly between Itsekiri candidates.”

He said: “Last Saturday, May 9, 2026, we inaugurated the Warri North Chapter of this great body at the KCMA Hall, Koko.

“On that occasion, we endorsed one of our own, Prince (Hon.) Michael Diden (Ejele), as our candidate for the Delta South Senatorial District in the forthcoming elections.

“Today, we hereby re-echo our resolution and reaffirm our total support for Hon. Michael Diden for the Delta South Senatorial District.

“We have also taken note of the supposed outcome of the APC screening exercise for the State Constituencies in Delta State, particularly those of Warri South Constituency I, Warri South Constituency II, Warri North, and Warri South-West.

“We are deeply concerned that a political party would disqualify a sitting Member of the Delta State House of Assembly, representing Warri North, wrongly screened out some aspirants in Warri South Constituencies I and II, and, above all, disqualify the most qualified Itsekiri aspirant in Warri South-West State Constituency in favour of the current Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

“While we respect the fact that party primaries and screening processes remain the internal affairs of the APC, we will not remain silent and allow such injustice to go unchallenged.

“We hereby state unequivocally that we will support only Itsekiri candidates in Warri South Constituency II, as the Itsekiris in that constituency have been denied their right to vote and be voted for over two decades.

“We have also resolved not to endorse any aspirant or candidate in Warri North and Warri South Constituency I at this stage, as the contests are mainly between Itsekiri candidates. As such, we shall invite candidates who emerge from the various political parties for an interactive session before making any endorsement.

Some members of IGC present at the inauguration

“To those being inaugurated today, we urge you to see your offices as a call to service, unity, sacrifice, and commitment to the advancement of the Itsekiri Nation and the progress of Nigeria as a whole.

“Let us remain focused, organized, and united in purpose. The strength of any people lies in their ability to speak with one voice, defend their collective interest, and work together for the future of generations yet unborn.

“This coalition must therefore stand as a platform for constructive engagement, grassroots mobilization, political inclusion, and the protection of the rights and aspirations of the Itsekiri people within a united and progressive Nigeria.”

Warri South Coordinator, Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition, Comr. Ajemijeroma Gabriel Mene Ejegi, in his address, stated that the group would make sure that all forms of intimidation and oppression against Itsekiris in Warri South Local Government Area stop.

Comr. Ajemijeroma Gabriel Mene – Ejegi (3^rd right, front row)  & other Executive Members of IGC, Warri South, taking Oath of Office 

He emphasized that IGC under his leadership in Warri South, will stand firm and project the interest of the group and larger Itsekiri nation, politically.

A prominent member of IGC, Hon. Weyinmi Omadeli, on his part, called on Itsekiris to participate enmasse in INEC’s Continuous Voter Register, CVR, to enable them vote for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Hon. Michael Diden in the 2027 elections.

×