In what political observers are calling an unprecedented realignment, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa have officially defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering ripples across Nigeria’s political sphere.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the defection rally by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the moment as the “greatest political tsunami” in Nigeria’s democratic history.
“This is a defining moment,” Shettima said while addressing a cheering crowd in Asaba. “For the first time, we’re witnessing a full political structure—ward to national—transitioning en masse into another party. It’s not just a defection; it’s a realignment.”
He assured the new entrants that the APC belongs to all, urging them to take ownership of the party’s future:
“You are not tenants in this house. You are co-owners in the Nigeria project,” he said, emphasizing that Oborevwori’s leadership marks a new chapter for Delta State under the APC.
Also present at the event were APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, APC Governors’ Forum Chairman Hope Uzodimma, and several top-ranking party figures.
Dr. Ganduje, while welcoming the defectors, called the move “historic and patriotic,” noting that it would enhance Delta’s influence and participation at the federal level.
“Delta is too strategic to be in the background,” he said. “This shift brings the state to the forefront of national decision-making.”
Governor Oborevwori, who until now was a PDP stronghold figure, described the decision as one rooted in pragmatism.
“Our state can no longer afford to remain in the opposition,” he stated. “This is not just a defection—it’s a patriotic movement in the best interest of our people.”
He pledged to work toward unifying the APC in Delta State and resolving any internal grievances. Former Governor Okowa echoed similar sentiments, defending his decision to switch allegiance.
“For over a decade, Delta has been sidelined despite being a key contributor to the nation’s economy. It’s time we take our rightful place,” he said.
The event was attended by other dignitaries, including Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, and several lawmakers and stakeholders.
