Delta's Political Earthquake: Oborevwori, Okowa Lead Historic Defection to APC

Delta State witnessed a seismic shift in its political landscape on Monday as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire structure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in what has been described as a political "movement" rather than just a defection. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, hailed the mass crossover at the Cenotaph, Asaba, calling it a "political tsunami of unimaginable proportions."

In a ceremony that drew widespread attention, Vice President Shettima praised Governor Oborevwori and Senator Okowa for their unity and leadership in guiding their followers into the APC fold. He emphasized that the magnitude of the defection — which included all Delta Senators, House of Representatives members, the State Assembly Speaker, and hundreds of councilors — was unprecedented in the South-South region's political history. According to Shettima, the mass movement demonstrated APC’s growing strength, adding that the defectors are not merely guests but now full co-owners of the party.

Responding to the rousing welcome, Governor Oborevwori described the event as a “movement” born from extensive consultations across all levels of leadership in the state. He emphasized that Delta could no longer afford to be in opposition, especially given the support President Tinubu has shown to the state. “When we stand for something, we remain committed. Delta must align with the center to secure greater development and opportunities for our people,” Oborevwori declared.

Governor Oborevwori further pledged to unify all political interests within the Delta APC, stressing that factionalism would be a thing of the past. He assured party leaders that he would consolidate the party structure, ensure inclusiveness, and steer Delta towards greater prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “There will be no more factions; as governor, I take charge. Together, we will move Delta and Nigeria forward,” he affirmed.

APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, warmly welcomed the Delta contingent, describing Governor Oborevwori’s leadership style as "progressive" and a perfect match for APC’s core values of openness, internal democracy, and developmental governance. Ganduje also commended the rare and cordial relationship between Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Okowa, highlighting it as a model of seamless political transition in Nigeria.

Adding his voice, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma, described the defection as historic, reinforcing APC’s expanding reach across Nigeria. He urged Deltans to continue supporting their governor as he consolidates on his achievements. Meanwhile, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa explained that the decision to switch allegiance was driven by the need to better position Delta State within the national political framework, ensuring greater access to federal support for ongoing and future development projects.

The event, which symbolized a turning point for Delta politics, was graced by 16 APC Governors, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, and other top political figures. Observers have already begun speculating that the massive realignment could reshape political dynamics in the South-South region ahead of the 2027 general elections.