Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Defects to APC in Major Political Realignment
ASABA, Nigeria — Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a seismic shift in the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement, made on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, follows weeks of speculation and closed-door negotiations with stakeholders.
Defection Details
Governor Oborevwori, elected on the PDP platform in 2023, was formally received into the APC during a meeting at the Delta State Government House in Asaba. His Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, confirmed the move, stating it followed “extensive consultations with political stakeholders to advance Delta’s long-term development.” The defection includes Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, commissioners, and the collapse of the PDP’s state structure into the APC.
Former Senator James Manager, a PDP stalwart and pioneer state chairman, described the decision as a “collective” one driven by the party’s internal challenges. “You cannot remain in a boat that is clearly capsizing,” Manager told journalists, citing the PDP’s dwindling cohesion and the need for strategic realignment.
Cabinet Reshuffle Plans
SaharaReporters revealed that Oborevwori plans to dissolve his cabinet to accommodate APC members under a 60/40 sharing formula, with PDP allies retaining 60% of positions. A principal assembly member confirmed the governor’s intent to “rebalance the state’s political structure” ahead of 2027.
Key Figures Join Movement
The defection includes former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Emomotimi Guwor. Commissioner for Information Aniagwu Charles likened remaining in the PDP to “drinking flavorless palm wine,” emphasizing the need for alignment with federal policies to accelerate state development.
APC’s Expanding Influence
The move strengthens APC’s foothold in the traditionally PDP-dominated South-South region. At a recent APC gathering in Effurun, chieftains chanted pro-Tinubu slogans as High Chief Michael Johnny declared, “Delta is now an APC state.” The party passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, crediting them with Niger Delta development initiatives.
Political Implications
Oborevwori’s defection deals a significant blow to the PDP, which has governed Delta since 1999. Analysts suggest the move could trigger further defections, reshaping alliances ahead of 2027. PDP governors have rejected merger talks with smaller parties, deepening internal fractures.
Next Steps
A formal declaration ceremony is scheduled for Monday, April 28, with APC leaders expected to outline integration plans. The governor assured Deltans of “uninterrupted development” and closer collaboration with federal projects.
