The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This defection is set to reshape the political landscape in the state, especially with the 2027 general elections fast approaching.
Delta PDP Officially Joins APC
At an official ceremony on Monday in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, Governor Oborevwori, Okowa, and other prominent figures from the state were formally received into the APC. The event, which was attended by a large crowd of supporters and key APC chieftains, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and Governor Hope Uzodimma, marked the formal shift from the PDP to the APC.
Oborevwori called the event a historic occasion. He emphasized that it was not simply a defection, but rather a movement driven by the need for better opportunities for Delta. “We consulted widely at all levels, and we are moving forward to ensure Delta gets the best,” Oborevwori stated, highlighting President Bola Tinubu’s support for the state.
The defection of the entire Delta State House of Assembly, council chairmen, and other key figures in the state solidifies the APC’s newfound dominance in the region. This official shift marks the end of the PDP’s 26-year rule in Delta State and signals a dramatic change in the state’s political landscape.
The PDP’s Reaction to the Defection
The defection has sent shockwaves through the PDP, with many political analysts and Nigerians expressing surprise at the sudden collapse of the party’s structure in Delta. Okowa, who was the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, echoed Oborevwori’s sentiments, stating that the decision was made in the best interest of the people of Delta.
While the PDP leadership expressed its surprise, they also downplayed the impact of the defection, stating that they would remain strong and focused on the future. However, the loss of Delta State to the APC has raised concerns about the opposition party’s ability to maintain its dominance in other regions of the country.
Political Impact on the 2027 Elections
The shift of the PDP to the APC in Delta is a surprising one as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections. The APC’s growing influence in the state strengthens its position ahead of the general elections. Vice President Shettima, who led the APC delegation at the reception, described the defection as a “tsunami,” highlighting its unprecedented impact on the political dynamics in the region.
This bold move by the Delta political leaders has also raised questions about the future of the PDP, particularly as it loses its stronghold in one of its key states. The APC is expected to capitalize on this momentum and work to expand its base in the region, possibly altering the course of the 2027 elections.
A Defection That Redefines Delta Politics
The defection of the Delta PDP to the APC represents a significant political shift that could have far-reaching implications for the 2027 general elections. The unity of the ruling party, strengthened by key figures from Delta, is set to challenge the traditional political structure in the state. With the PDP losing its grip in Delta, it’s clear that the APC is preparing for a tough fight in 2027.
