In a dramatic twist that could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and declared allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection, which has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political establishment, was confirmed Wednesday evening after a closed-door strategy session at the Government House in Asaba. Sources with knowledge of the meeting revealed that the move was sealed in the presence of high-ranking APC leaders who welcomed the governor into the ruling party’s fold.
Speaking with journalists via a telephone interview, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, confirmed the decision, stating that it followed “extensive consultations with critical political stakeholders across party lines and was guided by a commitment to the long-term development and stability of Delta State.”
“Governor Oborevwori believes that this realignment will allow Delta State to better harness federal opportunities and deepen its developmental strides,” Ahon noted, emphasizing that the governor’s focus remains “firmly on the people.”
Oborevwori’s defection marks a significant political recalibration. Elected in 2023 under the PDP platform and considered a loyalist within the party’s southern bloc, his move to the APC is being interpreted by analysts as both a tactical shift and a potential bellwether for further defections ahead of the next national elections.
The governor was reportedly courted by top APC figures in recent months, particularly in the wake of growing national debates over regional equity, restructuring, and federal resource allocation. His defection is expected to boost the APC’s influence in the South-South geopolitical zone, long regarded as a PDP stronghold.
Political watchers say the move could reshape party alliances in the region and increase the APC’s grassroots traction in Delta, where Oborevwori still commands significant popular support.
The APC’s national leadership is expected to formally present the governor at a high-profile welcome event in Abuja in the coming days, where he will be joined by several other political figures believed to be preparing to follow suit.
As reactions pour in from party loyalists and opposition figures alike, one thing is clear: the race to 2027 has begun—and Oborevwori has just redrawn the map.
