The political landscape of Delta State is on the brink of a seismic shift, as rumors of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s potential defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) continue to gather momentum. While unverified, these speculations have sparked intense debate and analysis, threatening to unsettle the state’s long-standing political structure and signaling a possible reconfiguration of power in one of Nigeria’s most politically dynamic oil rich states.
Whispers of Governor Oborevwori’s alleged plans to switch allegiance to the APC first surfaced after reports of his supposed meetings with key APC figures, including private interactions with President Bola Tinubu during the festive period, and his consistent meeting with the President Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila added to the rumour. These alleged encounters have been interpreted as signs of a potential realignment with Nigeria’s ruling party.
Furthermore, his frequent attendance at federal events, often in close quarters with APC leaders, has added fuel to the speculation.
Governor Oborevwori and his media team were not quick to dismiss these rumors. However his press secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the reports as the handiwork of opposition forces desperate to tarnish the governor’s image and sow discord within Delta’s political sphere.
Reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, Oborevwori assured Deltans of his unwavering commitment to implementing his MORE Agenda, which prioritizes development, reforms, and stability across the state.
Potential Political Fallout
While the rumors remain unsubstantiated, their implications for Delta politics are significant;
Disruption to the PDP’s Dominance
The PDP has held sway in Delta State since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999, with the party deeply entrenched in the state’s political fabric. A defection by the incumbent governor could deal a severe blow to its dominance, potentially causing a shift in voter loyalty and emboldening opposition forces. This would be particularly troubling for the PDP as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
Strengthening the APC’s Foothold
The APC has historically struggled to gain significant traction in Delta State, but Oborevwori’s defection could provide the party with a strategic foothold. The governor’s influence, coupled with the APC’s national reach, might create a formidable alliance capable of challenging the PDP’s grip on the state.
Internal Fractures Within the PDP
If Oborevwori were to defect, the PDP could face an internal crisis, with party leaders scrambling to contain the fallout and prevent further defections. The departure of such a high-ranking figure could deepen existing cracks within the party, undermining its cohesion and electoral prospects.
Public Trust and Governance
The mere suggestion of a defection has already sparked debates about the integrity of political leadership in Delta. Voters might view the potential move as evidence of self-serving politics, eroding trust in the governor and other political actors. Additionally, concerns about the continuity of the MORE Agenda—centered on meaningful development, reforms, and peace—could create uncertainty about the political future of so many political leaders in the state.
Reactions from Key Stakeholders
The rumors have elicited varied responses from political actors, each attempting to leverage the situation to their advantage.
Delta’s PDP leaders have been vocal in their efforts to downplay the rumors, dismissing them as propaganda. Some party insiders, however, have reportedly expressed private concerns about Oborevwori’s growing closeness to APC figures. This divide highlights the potential vulnerability within the PDP as it grapples with maintaining its dominance in the face of mounting challenges.
Reacting to the issue, The National Organizing Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP and former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Pascal Nwaoranine Adigwe, said that Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is deeply entrenched as a key actor in the party affairs and as one of those that is making PDP to survive and would never think of defecting to any other party, not even APC.
His words, “it could only be a figment of the imagination of pundits and naysayers that a highly regarded party stalwart and national stakeholder of the PDP was rumoured to be planning to defect.
“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is deeply plugged into PDP at the national level, he remains one of the frontline Governors rated highly for the management and survival of the party at the national level. He can’t dream of defecting, let alone planning it. He remains one of our heroes and we will continue to hold him in high esteem. Nigeria cannot afford to slide into a one-party State. And so, we must all disabuse our minds from that ideology, that to survive politically is to defect to a ruling party. That is no longer politics and such can never allow our country to make progress.”
“However, I can vouch that my Governor is solidly in the PDP and nothing can ever make him change his mind about the party that has given him prominence politically and that he has laboured so much to build. I want to warn the rumour mongers and indeed the APC to take their eyes off the performing Governor and concentrate on redeeming their pledge for good governance to Nigerians.”
Meanwhile, the Delta chapter of the APC has adopted a reserved stance, publicly stating that it has little interest in the rumors surrounding Oborevwori. However, party insiders recognize the strategic value of a possible defection. Welcoming the governor into its fold could rejuvenate the APC’s prospects in Delta, especially as the party seeks to expand its influence beyond its traditional strongholds.
In his response, Valentine Onojeghuo (Esq) State Publicity Secretary APC, Delta State, declared that Delta APC has no interest in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s rumoured defection to APC ‘As we cannot associate with failure.
His words, “The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta State, has noted with little interest, the rumoured defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State to the APC. While we respect the political rights of any individual to associate with a Party of their choice, we want to state for the purpose of clarity that the Delta APC is not in any way concerned by this development given the abysmal performance of the governor since assumption of office, nor do we see it as a significant shift in the political landscape of our State.
“It is on record that Governor Oborevwori’s tenure has been marred by widespread instances of underperformance, mismanagement, and poor governance having failed woefully to deliver any tangible development for the people of Delta State, despite the humongous federal allocations of over 500 billion that accrues to the State monthly. Deltans are disillusioned, and their disappointment in the current administration is palpable. Delta APC has always stood for progress, good governance, and a better future for the people of Delta, and we remain committed to these ideals.
“Governor Oborevwori’s time in office is a stark reminder of the lack of vision, leadership, and accountability that continues to hold Delta State back and Delta APC is not in any intimidated by the imaginary developmental strides as laughably conjured by the retinue of social media hirelings of the State government who are toiling night and day to launder the spectacular failures of the present administration. It is the Delta APC’s firm belief that true progress and sustainable development will only come when those who have proven their capability and commitment to the welfare of the people-qualities that are presently lacking, are at the helm of affairs in the State.
“It is the strong conviction of our great Party that the people of Delta State are more concerned with the sustainable development of our State through effective leadership than with the changing allegiances of those who have failed to live up to expectations. The focus of Delta APC remains squarely on our mission to bring about the change that Delta State deserves – a change that is grounded in honesty, accountability, and visionary leadership.
“While we appreciate the enthusiasm of any individual, including the governor seeking to align with the APC, given the developmental strides of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that has placed the Nigerian economy on a path of recovery as acknowledged by Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori on several occasions, our priority is ensuring that Delta State is not left out of the renewed hope wave of leadership that places the people first, addresses the challenges of underdevelopment, and unlocks the immense potentials, particularly for our beloved State.
“Delta APC will continue to build on our foundational ideals of progress, development, and inclusive governance. We are not interested in political opportunism or the shifting of party affiliations for personal political gains or the desperate attempt of internally displaced politicians who are seeking redemption for their failures. Our focus remains steadfast on serving the people of Delta State with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to the developmental greatness of our great State.”
According to a special Assistant to the Governor who spoke to the Trumpet Newspaper on condition of anonymity, he said, there could be element of truth in the rumour, as sure move will finally free the governor from the grip of the former governor and former vice presidential candidate of PDP, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa.
He however added that, if the governor finally decamps, he will render Okowa as a political orphan, which could be political suicidal for him.
The Public and Social Media
Delta residents and political commentators have taken to social media to voice their opinions, with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook buzzing with discussions. While some dismiss the rumors as political theater, others see them as emblematic of the fluid and unpredictable nature of Nigerian politics. The debates have underscored the heightened public scrutiny of political figures and their allegiances.
Delta State’s political history has been shaped by a delicate balance of power, with the PDP consistently maintaining an edge over its rivals. However, the state is no stranger to political realignments. High-profile defections have played a role in reshaping alliances and influencing electoral outcomes in the past. Oborevwori’s rumored defection, if realized, could mark a pivotal moment in this tradition, potentially heralding a new era of political competition in Delta.
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For Governor Oborevwori, the stakes are monumental. A defection could position him as a key player within the APC, granting him access to federal resources, power and bolstering his influence in national politics. However, it could also alienate his PDP base and subject him to scrutiny from both supporters and detractors.
For the PDP, Oborevwori’s departure would represent a significant loss, particularly as the party seeks to rebuild after its poor performance in the 2023 general elections. Retaining control of Delta is critical to the PDP’s strategy for regaining national prominence.
For the APC, the governor’s defection would be a major coup, offering the party an opportunity to consolidate its position in the South-South region. However, integrating a high-profile defector like Oborevwori could also create internal tensions, as existing party members jostle for relevance and influence.
While the rumors remain speculative, they have highlighted the fluidity and unpredictability of Delta politics. The state’s political actors must now navigate a delicate balance between loyalty, ambition, and public perception.
For Oborevwori, staying true to the PDP would reinforce his image as a loyal party member and provide stability for his administration. However, if the rumors are true and he does defect, the governor must be prepared to navigate the challenges of transitioning to a new political platform while maintaining his credibility and delivering on his promises to Deltans.
For the PDP, the focus must be on solidifying its base and addressing any internal divisions that the rumors may have exposed. Party leaders must work to reassure their supporters and counter any narrative that suggests the PDP is losing its grip on Delta politics.
For the APC, this moment presents an opportunity to capitalize on the uncertainty within the PDP. By positioning itself as a viable alternative, the party could attract not only defectors but also undecided voters seeking change.
As Delta State approaches another electoral cycle, the stakes have never been higher. The outcome of this unfolding drama will not only shape the future of the PDP and APC in Delta but also provide a litmus test for the broader dynamics of political loyalty and governance in Nigeria.
For now, all eyes remain on Governor Oborevwori, whose next move—real or rumored—could redefine the trajectory of Delta politics for years to come.
