Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed a core principle of the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that in the party’s structure, the sitting Governor is the undisputed leader of the party in each state.
Speaking during the grand reception held at the Cenotaph, Asaba, to welcome Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Delta Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa and the entire PDP structure in the state including members of the Delta State House of Assembly, federal lawmakers, and hundreds of councilors into the APC, Shettima stated emphatically, “According to the APC Constitution, the Governor of the party in a state is the leader of the party in that state. This is now as much your party as it is ours.”
The Vice President’s remarks drew thunderous applause from the mammoth crowd, as he underscored the unity, respect for hierarchy, and clarity of leadership that have distinguished the APC from other political formations.
“You are not guests here — you are now co-owners,” Shettima told Governor Oborevwori and his supporters. “You bring with you a wealth of experience, a depth of wisdom, and a measure of strength for which we are deeply grateful. The APC is not just stronger today because you have joined us; it is better.”
The event, described by Shettima as a “political tsunami of unimaginable proportions,” saw the formal movement of the entire political structure of Delta State — from the Governor, Speaker, and State Assembly members to National Assembly representatives and over 500 councilors — into the APC.
Reflecting on the massive realignment, the Vice President said, “Today, all members of the OPA Chamber of the National Assembly are now in the APC. The Speaker and all members of the Delta State House of Assembly. Numerous members of the House of Representatives. The Governor and his entire Cabinet. Five hundred Councilors across the 25 local government areas of this great state.”
He described the development as a vindication of APC’s enduring appeal and political vision. “The true measure of a political party lies not merely in the enthusiasm of its members, but in the conviction it inspires among those who once stood apart,” he added.
Shettima also praised the spirit of leadership and continuity displayed by Governor Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. “I wish to pay special tribute to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for the wonderful relationship that exists between him and his successor. Your Excellency, you are indeed a great leader. And to Your Excellency Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for embracing your predecessor with respect and decorum, you are an even greater leader,” he said.
In his own speech, Governor Oborevwori echoed Shettima’s affirmation of leadership clarity within the APC, saying, “APC is not like PDP. The Governor takes charge. Yes! Everybody must key in.”
He emphasized that the decision to join the APC was the result of wide consultations and strategic consideration. “This is not a defection — it’s a movement,” Oborevwori declared. “We have been in opposition for almost 10 years. Do we need that? Mr. President has supported us. We cannot face him in 2027 and work against him.”
Governor Oborevwori went on to emphasize that his decision to join the APC was driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that Delta State’s future is safeguarded through a strategic partnership with the federal government. “As a leader, I must always think about the future of my people,” he stated.
“We have seen firsthand the tremendous benefits that come with being aligned with a government that is not only visionary but deeply committed to the progress of every part of Nigeria. We cannot afford to stand on the sidelines while others are moving forward. By joining the APC, we are opening new doors of opportunity for the people of Delta.”
The Governor also spoke passionately about the importance of unity within the party. “This is not just about politics. It’s about people. It’s about our communities, our families, and our future. We cannot afford to let past divisions hold us back. We have made a bold decision to embrace one another, regardless of our previous affiliations, to work together as one. With the support of the APC, and with the blessings of President Bola Tinubu, I am confident that we can take Delta State to greater heights of progress, security, and prosperity for all.”
Earlier in his speech, the National Chairman of APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, commended the leadership exhibited in Delta State. He described the day’s event as historic, marking a political legacy laid by Governor Oborevwori.
“First of all, we must thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for providing good leadership that has added value to our party. This leadership has made APC attractive to others,” Ganduje said.
He further acknowledged the role of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for fostering a cordial relationship with his successor, noting it as rare in the country’s political landscape.
“Mr. Governor, in welcoming you to the APC, I want to remind you that our core value is progressive leadership. From what we have seen in your programs and projects, you are indeed a progressive governor. You have come home — you have discovered your true political home,” Ganduje said before presenting the APC flag and symbols of authority to Oborevwori.
Also speaking, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodimma, praised the Governor’s decision to join the APC, linking it to his visible achievements on ground in Delta State.
“Driving into Asaba, I saw the level of development, and I was not surprised that the Governor, in his wisdom, decided to join us. What we are known for is what he is already doing,” Uzodimma remarked.
He described the movement as significant, noting that the APC remains a party rooted in ideology, unity, and a shared commitment to Nigeria’s development.
“We are here to demonstrate solidarity and assure the good people of Delta State that this vision will move the state to the next level of growth and prosperity. I also thank my brother Governors who turned out in large numbers today,” he added.
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Former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa later lent further weight to the day’s significance, describing the move as bold, strategic, and patriotic. According to him, the shift to the APC was made “in the best interest of our people,” after careful consultations across all levels of leadership in the state.
“There is always a time to change path for the common good of the people,” Okowa said. “I was governor for eight years. I was in opposition. I did my best, but we lost a lot. And I did not believe that the governor needed to stay working very hard without the necessary connection.”
Okowa emphasized that Delta State needed to be better connected to the power and goodwill in Abuja, noting that President Bola Tinubu’s support could not be ignored. “We must defend our state. Our state stands far beyond us. It is time for us to embrace each other and work as one,” he urged.
Praising Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, Okowa added, “Thank you, Mr. Governor, for blazing the trail. You have put us first. We trust you, we believe in you, and we believe in the decision that we have collectively taken.”
In his reaction to the defection, Engr. Ichehono Akpobome Ejeje the CEO of Bauwerk Engineering Limited and a former member of the PDP who moved with Governor Oborevwori into the APC, shared his thoughts on the significant political shift in Delta State.
“In Delta State now, the political landscape is becoming more unified,” Ejeje remarked. “Previously, we were divided along party lines, but with the synergy between the PDP and the APC, I strongly believe things will turn out better for the state.”
Reflecting on his previous alignment, Ejeje explained, “Before now, we were with His Excellency Sheriff in the PDP. Sheriff worked hard for the state and delivered on his M.O.R.E. agenda. When he decided to move into the APC, those of us loyal to him followed, because we still believe in his vision.”
He also addressed concerns about the potential consolidation of power, dismissing fears of a one-party state. “It’s important to note that we don’t only have PDP and APC in the country. There’s also the Labour Party, SDP, and others. So, it’s not a one-party system. I believe Sherif’s movement into the APC is a positive development.”
Ejeje emphasized that the ultimate goal is unity: “Previously, we were divided along party lines, which wasn’t ideal. Delta State should be united. Delta State is Sherif. Delta State is APC.”
Ejeje further expressed his optimism for the future of Delta State under the APC: “This is not about returning to old politics, but about creating a new path for the people of Delta. I believe this unity will propel us forward.”
