By Emma Ogoigbe, Warri
As the political atmosphere gradually gathers momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, Chief Sheriff Mulade, flag-bearer of Nigeria Democratic Party (NDP) for the Warri Federal Constituency, has officially kicked off his campaign with a message of hope, service and renewed commitment to the people.
The kick-off, which held on 27 August, 2026, drew dignitaries from across the constituency’s three dominant, often mutually suspicious ethnic nationalities of Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo, merging them in a thrilling unity, started with cultural dancers performing to welcome the candidate and his entourage.
Prominent stalwarts of Delta State chapter of NDC were on hand at the flag-off in Warri, Delta State.
The event marks a significant step in Mulade’s political journey as he seeks the mandate to represent his people in the House of Representatives.
His emergence as the NDC candidate generated conversations among political stakeholders and residents, the latter keenly watching the unfolding contest.
For Mulade, the journey to the National Assembly is not merely a quest for political office, but an opportunity to deepen his service to humanity.
Chief Mulade, who also holds a doctorate degree, promised quality representation in the Green Chamber so as to attract the desired attention and development that will create employment opportunities for the teeming youths across Warri Federal Constituency.
Mulade, who is the Ibe-Sorimowei of the oil-rich, ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, said during the official flag-off and consultation meeting with citizens and supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections, that the National Assembly election, for all candidates, will be proof of capacity, competence and ability to represent the people.
Stressing that he has these listed qualities in huge quantities, Mulade assured that his tenure in the federal legislature will meet the desired expectations of his constituents for developmental progress, given what he described as past deprivations of such for the people.
He said: ”Warri Federal Constituency had being deprived of meaningful development, empowerment and Federal Government’s attention due to lack of quality representation, in spite of the huge economic contribution of the Constituency to the nation’s wealth.
“If elected in 2027 into the House of Representatives, Warri City and its environs would be given the deserved special attention through constructive advocacy and engagement with all relevant stakeholders and as the voice for the voiceless, is assured you that the voice of Warri people will be heard constructively.”
At the event, some candidates also declared their political aspirations.
They include Hon. Nathan Esiri Osume, who is running for Senate to represent Delta Central Senatorial district, and Hon. Kingsley Abugewa, who declared interest for House of Representatives seat for Okpe/Sapele constituency. Both will fly the NDC flag.
Chief Mulade’s message has resonated with his supporters who pointed to his history of philanthropy and community engagement as evidence of a man who has consistently demonstrated concern for the welfare of ordinary people, particularly the less privileged.
A better-community advocate, Mulade has,over the years, built a positive public identity around issues affecting the environment, human dignity and social development.
His activities have taken him beyond ethnic boundaries, earning the candidate recognition among people of different backgrounds who have benefited from his interventions and humanitarian gestures over time.
His supporters believe that such a record could become a major advantage in the 2027 contest.
In a political environment where voters increasingly demand evidence of what aspirants have done outside election seasons, Mulade’s antecedents are being projected as part of the foundation upon which his campaign is built.
At the heart of his campaign is a simple message: Hope. He espouses hope for effective representation, hope for stronger community development and hope that the interests of ordinary constituents can receive greater attention at the federal level.
The campaign is expected to focus on connecting his previous community activities with his vision for legislative representation.
Mulade’s role as the National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Justice (CEPEJ) has also contributed to his elevated public profile.
Through his involvement with peace and justice advocacy, he has positioned himself within conversations around peaceful coexistence, fairness and the protection of people’s rights.
As the 2027 election approaches, the Warri Federal Constituency contest is expected to attract considerable attention.
The constituency, like many others in the Niger Delta, faces a combination of developmental, environmental, economic and social challenges.
The ability of candidates to convince voters that they can effectively articulate these concerns at the National Assembly will therefore be central to their election.
For Mulade, his campaign presents an opportunity to translate years of humanitarian activities and advocacy into a broader political mandate.
His supporters argue that a representative should not only appear during election periods but must have demonstrated a closer, constant commitment to the people before seeking their votes.
There is, however, a crucial condition that will ultimately determine the outcome of the contest: The credibility of the electoral process.
If the election is conducted transparently, votes are properly counted and the will of the electorate is respected, Mulade’s supporters are confident that his grassroots appeal and record of service can place him in a strong position.
The coming months will consequently test the strength of that confidence. Political campaigns often transform reputations into votes only when candidates successfully communicate their programmes, build broad coalitions and convince voters that their promises are achievable.
Mulade will therefore have to flaunt not only his past achievements but also demonstrate a clear legislative agenda for the people of Warri Federal Constituency.
For now, the commencement of his campaign signals the beginning of a political journey built around a promise of hope and service.
Whether that message will resonate strongly enough with voters to translate into victory in 2027 remains a question for the electorate to answer.
But one thing is certain: With his campaign now officially underway, Chief Sheriff Mulade has placed himself firmly in the political conversation ahead of the Warri Federal Constituency race.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Chief Mulade (middle, in white vest, white hat).
