In a major development in Delta State politics, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, and other prominent members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection was confirmed on Wednesday following a closed-door meeting held at the Government House in Asaba.
The defection marks a significant turning point in the state’s political landscape, as several PDP heavyweights, including lawmakers, commissioners, and local government officials, chose to move to the ruling party. The gathering, which attracted a wide range of political figures, laid the groundwork for what many are calling a complete shift in political alliances within Delta.
Speaking after the meeting, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, stated that the decision was not abrupt. According to him, it was the result of long and careful consultations aimed at securing the future of Delta State.
“For some time now, the media has been speculating about the political direction of Delta State,” Aniagwu said. “Our Governor and leaders have been carrying out wide consultations, and after careful deliberations, we reached a unanimous decision. The political temperature has changed — the taste of the palm wine, so to speak, has changed — and we must adjust our drinking pattern accordingly.”
Aniagwu also noted that the move was motivated by a desire to protect and promote the state’s development, saying that remaining in the PDP under current conditions would hinder progress.
In a similar tone, Senator James Manager, a founding member of the PDP in Delta State and former representative of Delta South, described the decision as both painful and necessary.
“I have been with the PDP from the very beginning, so this is a very emotional moment for me,” Manager said. “But when a ship is sinking, you don’t stay onboard out of sentiment. We had extensive consultations, and today marks the climax of those discussions. What we have now is a collective and unanimous decision to chart a new course.”
Others in attendance included Delta State Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, former Governor Okowa, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and numerous members of the National and State Assemblies, along with commissioners and local government chairmen.
