By Francis Sadhere, Warri
The National Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for Warri Federal Constituency in the 2027 House of Representatives election, Chief (Comrade) Mulade Blessing Sheriff, PhD, has paid a courtesy visit to the Olare-Aja of Koko Community in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, seeking traditional blessings and support ahead of the polls.
The visit, which attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, community elders, women, youths and other stakeholders, provided an opportunity for the House of Representatives hopeful to engage with the people and outline his vision for the constituency.
Receiving Mulade at his palace, the Olare-Aja and members of his council of chiefs offered prayers and royal blessings for wisdom, protection and success in his political ambition.
The traditional ruler also commended the NDP candidate for what he described as his humility, respect for traditional institutions and continued commitment to the development of Warri North.
Speaking during the visit, Mulade said he considered it important to seek the blessings of traditional rulers and elders before embarking on his campaign for the 2027 election.
He said his visit was not merely a political engagement but an opportunity to reconnect with his people, listen to their concerns and reaffirm his commitment to representing their interests at the National Assembly.
“I am here not as a politician seeking votes alone, but as a son seeking blessings. Before I go to Abuja, I must first come home to Koko. My fathers, I hear the cries of our fishermen, our traders, our mothers and our youths. I have come to assure you that Warri will not be forgotten,” he said.
The NDP candidate promised to prioritise the development of riverine communities, improved waterways, roads, schools, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion and job creation if elected.
He said his proposed legislative agenda would focus on effective representation and addressing the developmental challenges confronting communities across Warri South, Warri North and Warri South-West local government areas.
According to him, the constituency needs stronger representation at the National Assembly, particularly in areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic opportunities and the welfare of rural communities.
Mulade also pledged to promote peace and unity among the Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo and other ethnic groups in the Warri federal constituency, while maintaining close collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders.
He identified improved access to electricity, functional jetties, better waterways, skills acquisition, employment opportunities and support for women as some of the areas requiring legislative attention.
The visit also featured expressions of support from some community members, who described the candidate’s engagement with the traditional institution as an opportunity to discuss the needs and expectations of the community ahead of the 2027 elections.
A community elder, who spoke at the event, commended Mulade for visiting the palace to seek the blessings of the traditional ruler and his council of chiefs.
The visit forms part of the NDP candidate’s engagements with traditional institutions and stakeholders across the Warri Federal Constituency as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
