2027: Contest for Delta South Senatorial Seat, Itsekiri youths Tell Edema

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

The appeal was contained in a statement issued after what the group described as a strategic leadership meeting. The statement was jointly signed by the Delta South Coordinator of IYGG, Sam Oki Metsh, and the group’s Secretary, George Omatsuli.

According to the group, Prince Edema possesses the leadership qualities, experience and community-driven vision required to represent the diverse interests of the senatorial district at the National Assembly.

In the statement made available on Sunday, the group described him as a “transformational leader” with a proven record in both private enterprise and public service.

They argued that Delta South Senatorial District, which comprises the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Isoko ethnic nationalities, needs a representative with integrity, political maturity and the technical competence to attract development and effectively champion the district’s interests in Abuja.

The group said its endorsement was driven by what it called Edema’s longstanding commitment to service, philanthropy and inclusive leadership.

“We have closely watched your trajectory and we know you have the capacity to lead our people effectively,” the statement read in part. “Your vision for inclusivity is exactly what Delta South needs in 2027.”

The youth body also identified unity as a major factor behind its call, noting that the next senator for the district must be someone capable of building bridges across ethnic and political divides.

IYGG pointed to Edema’s previous leadership roles, including his tenure as President of the National Association of Itsekiri Students (NAIS) and later President of NAIG, as evidence of his long-standing investment in youth development, human capital advancement and grassroots engagement.
The group further referenced his role as the Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), saying the position reflected his ability to manage sensitive community relations and advocate for local interests within the oil and gas sector.

Supporters believe those experiences have equipped him with the political and administrative depth needed to navigate the complexities of legislative office.

The Delta South Senatorial seat remains one of the most politically significant and competitive positions in Delta State, often attracting intense interest from major political blocs and stakeholders across the district.

Political observers say the early call by IYGG may signal the beginning of broader consultations ahead of the 2027 election cycle, especially as youth participation continues to shape electoral outcomes in the state.

The group’s move is also being interpreted as a sign of growing demand for a candidate whose appeal extends beyond party structures to community credibility and grassroots acceptance.
As of the time of filing this report, Prince Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema had not made any official statement regarding a possible bid for the Senate.

However, the endorsement by the youth group is likely to intensify conversations around his political future and could position him as one of the notable figures to watch in the emerging contest for the Red Chamber.