Political alignments and strategic positioning are already shaping preparations for the 2027 elections across Nigeria’s South-South region, with major contests expected in Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, while Bayelsa and Edo will hold off-cycle governorship polls later in the electoral cycle.
In Edo State, early permutations are emerging around the Edo South Senatorial District, where the absence of a dominant political figure has intensified competition among aspirants. Within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the race for the Oredo Federal Constituency ticket is shaping up between Osaro Obazee, Dr Paddy Iyamu and incumbent lawmaker Eseosa Iyawe, amid speculation about the governor’s preferred candidate.
Attention is also on the possible return of former lawmaker Omosede Igbinedion in Ovia South-West/Ovia North-East Federal Constituency. Meanwhile, opposition parties including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Labour Party (Nigeria) are still working to rebuild cohesion ahead of the polls.
For the Edo South senatorial seat, former lawmaker Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama is widely seen as a leading APC contender but could face competition from Senator Neda Imasuen, former senator Matthew Urhoghide and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu. In Edo North, former governor Adams Oshiomhole is expected to seek another Senate term, retaining strong political influence in the district.
In Delta State, shifting alliances within the APC are reshaping senatorial contests. Delta North is likely to witness a major contest involving Senator Ned Nwoko, while former governor Ifeanyi Okowa is reported to be focusing on party consolidation rather than seeking elective office. Analysts say the influence of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori could be decisive in determining party outcomes in the zone.
In Delta Central, attention is also on former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, whose political future remains under watch following party realignments, while incumbent Senator Ede Dafinone is reportedly pursuing a second term.
Political positioning is also underway in Rivers State ahead of the governorship succession debate. Allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, are believed to be preparing for possible contests, although the minister recently cautioned supporters against early declarations of ambition. There is also speculation about the political future of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, including reports he could consider a senatorial bid.
In Cross River State, Governor Bassey Otu is consolidating support ahead of 2027, while opposition figures including former governors Liyel Imoke and Donald Duke are working through the ADC platform to strengthen alliances. The Northern Senatorial District is expected to see a contest between former governor Ben Ayade and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.
In Bayelsa State, where the governorship election will hold later as part of the off-cycle calendar, political rivalry continues between Governor Douye Diri and his predecessor Seriake Dickson. Potential governorship aspirants from Bayelsa East, including Samuel Ogbuku and Benson Agadaga, are already being mentioned. Analysts also expect former President Goodluck Jonathan to play a significant advisory role in shaping the state’s political direction ahead of the election.
