Senator representing Delta Central, Ede Dafinone, has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State to remain united and steadfast in their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, saying current government policies are beginning to make the right impact on the country.
Senator Dafinone made the appeal on Tuesday while addressing party faithful at an end-of-year luncheon held at his residence along Dafinone Way, where members of his campaign structure from the eight local government areas of Delta Central were hosted.
Dafinone urged his supporters to embrace and work with new entrants into the Delta APC, stressing that although the party did not win all elective positions in the 2023 general elections, it must now focus on building a stronger and more formidable structure capable of winning across board in 2027.
According to him, unity remains the party’s greatest strength, especially now that the APC controls both the federal and state governments.
“We are all APC. Our governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, is APC. Our president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is APC. So we must continue to support them and their policies fully,” the senator said.
He added: “We must work together – federal, state and local governments – as one big family.”
He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as well-prepared for the responsibility of governing Nigeria, with the experience and capacity to steer the country through difficult economic times.
While acknowledging the hardship caused by recent economic reforms, Dafinone said the measures were necessary for long-term stability. He specifically referenced the removal of fuel subsidy, noting that the policy had previously benefited only a few.
“The removal of subsidy was painful, but it was necessary,” he said, adding: “Today, things are beginning to adjust, food prices are coming down, and Nigeria will be better for it.”
The lawmaker urged party members not to lose faith, calling for patience, resilience and collective resolve as the country navigates economic recovery.
Describing the gathering as more than a political meeting, Dafinone said it was a family reunion aimed at reconnecting with loyal supporters who had stood with him over the years.
“I call you my family because that is what you are,” he told the gathering. “If I don’t see you, I won’t know your challenges. And if I don’t know your challenges, then I am not doing the job you sent me to do.”
Reflecting on his political journey, the Senator noted that many of those present had remained loyal since as far back as 2006, stressing that genuine political relationships, like family ties, endure disagreements and challenges.
He assured supporters of his continued accessibility, saying no one should feel abandoned or ignored, even in difficult times. He also acknowledged the financial pressures facing many Nigerians, explaining that delays in responding to requests should not be interpreted as indifference.
On party affairs, Dafinone reminded members of their role in past electoral successes, noting that many had delivered polling units, wards and local governments for the APC.
Although the party did not produce the governor in 2023, he said its current alignment with the state government had opened new opportunities.
“Today, the governor is with us, and that means the dividends of democracy are closer than ever,” he said, adding that having the same party at the state and federal levels would allow for better coordination in addressing development challenges such as roads, water and other infrastructure.
Several APC stakeholders in Delta Central, including Adelabu Bojoh, Chief Able Idigun and Chief Tuesday Onoge, commended Dafinone’s performance in the Senate, calling for understanding given that he is not yet a ranking senator.
They expressed confidence that he would deliver even more results if re-elected in 2027.
The event was attended by the senator’s Chief of Staff, Chief Adelabu Bojoh; Deputy Chief of Staff; Hon. Justin Oborerirhi Uloho; Chief Steve Sokoh; and former Udu Local Government Chairman, Chief Fred Kakah.
Others in attendance are Hon. Valentine Onojeghou; APC State Publicity Secretary, Chief Collins Ezewu; Sir John Ebireri; Onojaife Stanley; Hon. Henry Esiri, as well as youth leaders, women leaders and other party stakeholders.
The gathering ended on a hopeful note, with Senator Dafinone urging party members to remain united and optimistic as the new year approaches.
“Do not lose faith,” he said. “Stay united. Better days are ahead.”
