Chief Fred Majemite, a notable Delta State politician and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says only President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori have an automatic return ticket for the 2027 general elections.
Majemite emphasised that all other elective roles are open for contest among party members.
During a recent interaction with journalists at his home in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Majemite discussed the ongoing political climate in the state and the internal dynamics of the APC.
On the topic of automatic tickets, Majemite clarified that, aside from the governorship position, all other offices will be contested fairly.
“To my knowledge, the only positions guaranteed for a return are those of the President and the Governor. A sitting President and Governor must secure their tickets, as there are no vacancies in the Aso Rock Villa and Osadebe House in Asaba. They will both remain in office until 2031,” he affirmed.
He noted that party traditions typically allow a sitting President and Governor to serve two terms unless extraordinary circumstances arise, but he stressed that this practice does not apply to other political positions.
“As for all other roles, anyone interested is free to run. There have been no imposed candidates,” he added, refuting rumours of internal zoning or predetermined candidates within the APC.
While he did not make an official announcement, Majemite hinted at his potential interest in running for the Senate, contingent on further consultation and personal reflection.
He cited his experience, including his previous bid for the governorship in 2022, as proof of his dedication to public service.
“Those familiar with my background know that I have always sought to serve my community. Even though I did not win the primaries, I performed well. I’m no longer getting younger, so I intend to use whatever strength I have to benefit my people,” he stated.
Majemite acknowledged the likelihood of competing against incumbent Senator Ede Dafinone if he chooses to run but expressed hope for a fair contest.
“If my brother Ede Dafinone decides to enter the race, we may meet on the field. He also performed admirably, but I believe he might step aside to allow others a chance, especially as we want leadership to rotate within Delta Central,” he explained.
Despite his ambitions, Majemite reiterated that his primary focus is to ensure Governor Oborewori’s re-election in 2027.
“My main priority is to support the governor’s return to Osadebe House because his influence is broader than that of a senator. For now, our emphasis is on backing him. We’ll address future decisions when the time comes,” he noted.
Majemite also addressed the ongoing dispute regarding the ownership of former PDP properties, asserting that the significant shift of PDP assets to the APC legitimises the use of these facilities.
“Now that we are all in the APC, there’s no need for the PDP Secretariat. We have all transitioned — party members and elected officials alike. This is unprecedented in Nigeria,” he said.
He revealed that the governor has been officially acknowledged as the APC leader in the state, following endorsements from both veteran and new party members, including prominent national figures.
“The Vice President has stated that the governor is now the leader of the party according to their constitution. I also know that Ovie Omo-Agege respects the law, and the Vice President has mentioned that Ovie is a close friend who should be included in party discussions,” Majemite shared.
He expressed optimism that Governor Oborevwori, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and Minister Festus Keyamo are now collaborating effectively to bolster the APC’s position in Delta State.
