By Lucky Uto
EMEDE, DELTA STATE — The Isoko nation has formally endorsed Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections, passing a strong vote of confidence in his leadership during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Emede, Isoko South Local Government Area.
The endorsement, delivered at a constituency briefing that drew traditional rulers, political leaders, youth groups, women, and professionals, was based on what participants described as “verifiable performance” and the strategic advantage of maintaining continuity in representation at the National Assembly.
Stakeholders emphasized that replacing the senator at this stage could disrupt ongoing progress, noting that his rapid rise in the Senate—where he currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content and Vice Chairman of the Committees on Defence and Labour—positions Delta South for greater national relevance and influence.
Beyond leadership roles, participants highlighted his legislative contributions across key sectors including education, healthcare, oil and gas, and economic development.
Particular reference was made to his role in securing legal backing for the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, described as a milestone for the Niger Delta.
Speakers also pointed to grassroots interventions as a major factor behind the endorsement.
Over the past two years and ten months, the senator’s initiatives in agriculture, youth empowerment, and infrastructure have reportedly impacted communities across the district. These include fertilizer distribution to farmers, skills acquisition programmes in partnership with SMEDAN and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and employment opportunities in federal institutions such as the police and navy.
Infrastructure projects cited include installation of transformers in several communities, solar-powered streetlights in parts of Patani, and emergency road repairs in areas such as Olomoro and Koko. Ongoing efforts to establish an artificial intelligence and data development centre were also described as forward-looking investments.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, Anthony Ogbogbo, said the senator’s impact cuts across ethnic lines, benefiting Isoko, Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo communities.
Political figures, including Hon. Benjamin Okiemute, Chief Joe Arausi, and Dr. Paul Oweh, described his performance as exceptional for a first-term lawmaker, while Hon. Friday Olokor commended the scale of constituency projects within a short period.
Youth leader, Comrade Joel Emeni, stressed the importance of continuity, noting that sustainable development requires time and consistency. Women leaders, including Hon. Orezi Esievo and Pastor Mrs. Rhoda Ella Ikede, also endorsed the senator, citing tangible benefits and inclusive representation.
The Isoko Development Union (IDU), led by Chris Akpotu, described the senator as a source of pride, urging unity to avoid past political divisions that hindered the region’s progress.
To strengthen this consensus, stakeholders resolved to form a committee to engage other aspirants and promote a unified political front ahead of 2027.
In his response, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas attributed his achievements to collective support and unity, warning against abandoning tested leadership for unproven alternatives. He assured constituents that greater dividends would come with sustained support and increased legislative experience.
The Emede declaration signals an early but significant political alignment within Delta South, as the Isoko nation positions itself for continuity, influence, and long-term development ahead of the 2027 elections.
