The defection of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked diverse reactions from political figures and party supporters across the state.
Many have expressed shock and disappointment, particularly those who have closely supported the governor in the past.
Ijaw rights activist, Mr. Austin Ozobo, took to his Facebook page to share his displeasure with the governor’s decision, noting the betrayal he felt over Oborevwori’s move.
“It is no longer news about Governor Oborevwori’s defection to APC. It is sad. I never knew you (the governor) would kill PDP in Delta for personal gains,” he posted. This statement reflects the deep feelings of disillusionment some of the governor’s early supporters now have.
Within the ranks of the PDP, the news of Oborevwori’s defection has been met with sadness, particularly from those who worked tirelessly to ensure his election victory. One anonymous party member expressed the sense of betrayal felt by loyalists, saying, “It’s unfortunate that the governor will just do this to a party that stood by him during his election travails. We wish him well sha.”
Others questioned whether the governor could have remained in the PDP while still aligning with the APC at a national level, as seen with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike’s similar strategy.
“Banking on any under-the-table agreement with the APC over 2027 is risky. They could shock him. You don’t rely on political promises for a second term,” a party insider cautioned.
However, not all reactions have been negative. Sir Sunny Mene, the former Organizing Secretary of the APC in Delta State, welcomed the defection. He compared political parties to churches, emphasizing that they should remain open to new members.
“Political parties are like churches — the gate is always open for new converts. The more, the merrier. As a leader of the APC in the state, I can only say that the governor and others are welcomed,” Mene remarked.
