Isoko Women declare support for Austin Orette, set agenda for 2027 Delta South Senatorial race

Mercy Iheoma Ihedigbo

Women from the Isoko nation have thrown their weight behind Dr. Austin Orette, a senatorial hopeful under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), as they begin early mobilisation for the 2027 Delta South Senatorial election.

Rising from a strategic meeting held in Oleh on Sunday, the women expressed strong confidence in Orette’s leadership capacity and called for collective efforts toward achieving political success in the district.

The group, under the aegis of the Isoko Women United Group (IWUG), emphasised the need for early planning and unity among stakeholders to secure victory in the forthcoming election.

“We have a huge task ahead. The 2027 election in the Delta South Senatorial District is another opportunity to prove to ourselves that we can succeed. We must begin now to strategise for electoral success,” the women stated.

In a firm position, the group also rejected calls for a power shift, describing such moves as distractions that could undermine progress in the district. They stressed that competence, integrity, and capacity should remain the key criteria in choosing leadership.

Speaking after the meeting, Chairperson of IWUG, Mrs. Elizabeth Oghenemaro, disclosed that consultations were already ongoing with key political stakeholders across Delta State to build consensus around Orette’s candidacy.

According to her, “Dr. Austin Orette possesses the credibility, experience, and global network required to reposition Delta South. He has the vision to promote trade, develop infrastructure, and enhance security in the district.”

The women highlighted Orette’s personal qualities, describing him as a leader committed to justice, integrity, and inclusive development.

They noted that his background as a renowned physician, combined with his passion for service, places him in a strong position to represent the people effectively.

“Dr. Austin Orette is hardworking, honest, and accommodating. He understands the needs of the people and dares to pursue policies that will benefit the entire district,” the group added.

They further underscored the importance of legislative effectiveness, stating that the next senator must be proactive in lawmaking, active in debates, and committed to attracting development projects to the region.

In a veiled criticism of the current representation, the women expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as years of underperformance, noting that the district deserves better representation and tangible progress.

“Four years of missed opportunities are enough. The people of Delta South deserve a leader who will deliver real results and drive development at the grassroots,” they said.

The group also called on leaders across ethnic divides, including Isoko, Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Urhobo communities, to prioritise unity and development over divisive political interests.

Reaffirming their support, the women concluded that Orette’s candidacy represents hope for a more prosperous and inclusive Delta South, pledging to mobilise grassroots support to ensure his emergence in the 2027 elections.

As political activities gradually build toward the next electoral cycle, the endorsement by Isoko women signals a growing momentum around Dr. Austin Orette’s ambition, positioning him as a key contender in the race for the Delta South Senatorial District.