AGBOR: As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, political momentum is building in Delta State’s Ika North East and Ika South Local Government Areas. A growing number of stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are throwing their weight behind grassroots political figures like Hon. Sabastine Okoh, popularly known as Saba, and Hon, Chinedu Ebie, the current chairman NDDC, Hon Dori Uboh ,Mr. John obuh, Mr. Kerry Nnamdi and chamberlain, calling on them to take a leading role in shaping the region’s political structure at least for the time being.
A respected politician, businessman, and philanthropist from Umunede, Hon. Okoh has earned recognition for his long standing commitment to the APC, even during periods when the party struggled to gain traction in a region traditionally dominated by the opposition. According to party loyalists, his financial contributions, political strategy, and personal sacrifices have kept the APC afloat and growing in Ika land.
Sabastine Okoh is not new to the terrain. Over the years, he has become one of the most influential grassroots mobilizers in the state. His popularity stems not only from his political loyalty but also from his development-driven approach to leadership.
Through a combination of personal wealth and effective lobbying, he has helped empower hundreds of young men and women across both Ika North East and Ika South.
Notably, he played a central role in influencing NDDC-backed street and road lighting projects, which have transformed the physical infrastructure in Umunede and nearby communities.
Today, most streets in Umunede boast functional solar-powered streetlights improving security and economic activity, particularly at night
In a recent interview with rapidospace news reporter, Hon. Okoh hinted at a significant shift in the region’s political landscape. He revealed that plans are already underway to unify the APC structure in Ika North East and Ika South, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Things will soon take a new shape, Okoh said. We’re consulting with stakeholders across both local governments to forge a common front and give our people a stronger political voice.
When asked why there has been a delay in launching a formal campaign, Okoh responded that meaningful political strategy takes time and that meetings are being scheduled to consolidate political forces and create an inclusive leadership structure for the Ika nation.
He emphasized that the era of one man determining political outcomes in Ika land is over. Politics must no longer be controlled by a single individual or group. We must open up the space, allow new ideas, new faces, and new voices. The time for participatory democracy is now, he declared.
Beyond politics, Hon. Okoh continues to encourage sons and daughters of Umunede and Ika land especially those blessed with resources to invest in politics and become active players in governance and development.
Politics is not just about voting; it’s about lobbying, negotiation, and attracting development. I’ve spoken with several affluent Umunede indigenes, urging them to join the political process and help secure government contracts and projects that will benefit our people, he said.
Saba believes that such participation will not only build the region’s economic base but also help liberate Ika land from years of political stagnation.
As the 2027 elections approach, many see Hon. Sebastine Okoh as a key figure who can bridge the divide between old political structures and new aspirations. His strong grassroots presence, coupled with his reputation for philanthropy and strategic thinking, positions him as a natural leader for APC’s resurgence in Ika land.
Despite challenges, he has vowed not to back down from politics. I am in this for the long haul. I will continue to contest, continue to serve, and use the experience I’ve gained over the years to bring the dividends of democracy to Umunede, Ika North East, and Ika nation as a whole.
With his eye on the future, Hon. Sebastine Okoh remains a symbol of inclusive, people–centered politics. Whether through his development efforts, political advocacy, or push for broader participation, he is setting a new tone for leadership in Delta State. As the race toward 2027 heats up, all eyes are now on Umunede and on Saba.
