2027: Itsekiri Youths Urge Prince Edema to Join Delta South Senatorial Race

A prominent youth group in Delta State, Itsekiri Youths for Good Governance (IYGG), has called on Prince Edema Collins Oritsetimeyin, a former two-time President of the National Association of Itsekiri Graduates (NAIG), to contest the Delta South Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

The appeal was made in a statement jointly signed by the group’s Delta South Coordinator, Sam Oki Metsh, and its Secretary, George Omatsuli, following what they described as a strategic leadership meeting.

According to the statement, Prince Edema’s track record in both the private sector and community development positions him as a strong candidate capable of representing the diverse interests of the Delta South Senatorial District, which comprises the Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Isoko ethnic nationalities.

The group emphasized the need for credible and competent leadership in the district, noting that the next senator must possess not only integrity but also the technical expertise and diplomatic skill required to deliver tangible results at the National Assembly.

Describing him as a “trusted, people-oriented, and philanthropic leader,” the IYGG urged Prince Edema to heed the call to serve, stressing that his leadership style and vision for inclusivity align with the district’s needs ahead of the 2027 elections.

A major highlight of the endorsement is his perceived ability to foster unity across ethnic lines in Delta South. The group referenced his previous role as Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), noting that it demonstrated his capacity to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and advocate for grassroots benefits in the oil and gas sector.

Supporters also point to his past leadership roles as President of both the National Association of Itsekiri Students (NAIS) and NAIG as evidence of his longstanding commitment to youth development and human capital advancement.

Political observers note that the Delta South Senatorial seat remains one of the most competitive in the country, particularly following shifts recorded in the 2023 elections. The growing calls for a candidate perceived as people-focused signal an increasing demand for leadership driven by impact rather than partisan considerations.

Analysts further interpret the IYGG’s endorsement as an early indication of youth engagement ahead of the 2027 polls, suggesting that the youth bloc, widely regarded as a decisive force in Delta State politics is preparing to play a more active role in shaping electoral outcomes.

As of the time of filing this report, Prince Edema Collins Oritsetimeyin has not officially declared his intention to run. However, the emerging support from youth and community stakeholders suggests that a potential candidacy could significantly influence the dynamics of the forthcoming senatorial race.