By Hagxy Don
In a long-anticipated political move that finally came to pass on Wednesday, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has formally defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement, though expected in some circles, has nonetheless sent shockwaves across the political landscape of the South-South.
The defection was sealed after a strategic closed-door meeting held at the Government House in Asaba, which reportedly included high-ranking APC officials, trusted aides of the governor, and influential power brokers within and outside Delta State. Though whispers of the governor’s imminent departure from the PDP had swirled for months, the confirmation marks a significant moment in the political history of Delta.
Sir Festus Ahon, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, confirmed the development, stating that the governor’s decision followed “extensive consultations with political stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community leaders.” He said the move was driven by Governor Oborevwori’s “deep commitment to Delta’s long-term growth, security, and integration into the national development agenda.”
Oborevwori, who clinched victory in the 2023 governorship election under the PDP, addressed supporters and party leaders shortly after the formal announcement, noting that his decision was not one born of desperation but of vision. “For too long, Delta has operated on the periphery of national influence. Today, we embrace a new path — one that promises greater access to development, deeper federal collaboration, and a more secure future for our people,” he said.
He added, “This is not a betrayal of any political tradition but a bold leap into the future. I remain committed to serving the people of Delta State without bias or division. My loyalty is to the people, not to party lines.”
The governor’s move was greeted with loud cheers and celebrations from supporters, especially among APC loyalists who described his defection as a “masterstroke” that will redefine the political strength of the party in the Niger Delta region. He was received into the APC by a delegation led by the National Chairman of the party, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and other senior figures including Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy Senate President, who has long advocated for a united APC front in Delta.
For months, analysts and insiders had predicted Oborevwori’s crossover, citing his growing closeness with key APC players and his frequent visits to Aso Rock. The governor had also, in recent public outings, been seen praising federal government initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which many saw as a prelude to his eventual realignment.
The PDP in Delta is reportedly holding emergency consultations in light of the defection, with top officials acknowledging the magnitude of the political shift. One PDP chieftain, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted that “this has been on the radar, but we hoped it would not happen this soon. Sheriff’s departure is a heavy blow, and we’ll need to recalibrate quickly.”
For the APC, the defection is being described as a strategic win — one that may boost its popularity in the South-South and send strong signals to undecided stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party leadership has already vowed to support Oborevwori’s administration in delivering on his mandate to the people of Delta.
With the political landscape in Delta now significantly altered, attention turns to how this realignment will shape governance, policy direction, and the broader national narrative as Nigeria inches closer to another pivotal election cycle.
More updates to follow.