The political landscape in Delta State witnessed a major shake-up as long-serving federal lawmaker, Nicholas Mutu, lost the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mutu, who has represented the constituency in the House of Representatives since the return to democratic rule in 1999, was defeated during the APC primary election by Basil Okolobaowei Ganagana.
The result was announced by the returning officer for the exercise, Hon. Okenmor Fidelis Tilije, who declared Ganagana winner of the keenly contested primary.
The outcome brings to a close Mutu’s remarkable 28-year stint in the Green Chamber, making him one of the longest-serving lawmakers from the Niger Delta region.
Party delegates and supporters who attended the primary described the contest as highly competitive but peaceful, with many hailing the process as a reflection of internal democracy within the APC in Delta State.
Speaking shortly after the announcement of the result, Ganagana expressed gratitude to party delegates and pledged to work towards strengthening the party ahead of the general elections.
“I am humbled by the confidence reposed in me by delegates and party faithful. This victory is for the people of Bomadi and Patani Federal Constituency. I promise to provide effective representation and build on the democratic ideals of our party,” he said.
Although Mutu is yet to publicly react to the outcome of the primary, supporters of the veteran lawmaker described his political career as impactful and historic.
A party chieftain at the venue of the exercise noted that regardless of the outcome, Mutu’s contributions to the constituency and national legislature would remain significant.
“Rt. Hon. Nicholas Mutu has paid his dues in Nigerian politics. Twenty-eight years in the House of Representatives is no small achievement. His legacy in the constituency will not be forgotten,” the party stalwart stated.
The Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency, located in Delta State, has remained under Mutu’s representation for nearly three decades, making the latest development one of the most notable political upsets in the state’s APC primaries.
