The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State is embroiled in a leadership crisis that has plunged the party into turmoil, threatening its unity and prospects ahead of the 2027 elections. At the center of the struggle are two heavyweight figures, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy Senate President, and Olorogun Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. This escalating feud over the party’s leadership and structure has created deep divisions within the APC, leaving its members and supporters concerned about its future.
The crisis, which traces its roots to the aftermath of the 2023 elections, has intensified following the release of a controversial reconciliation report. The report, prepared by the Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led reconciliation committee, recommended the establishment of a Leadership Council at all levels of the party. Instead of mending fences, this proposal has fueled further discord, with party members questioning the legitimacy of co-chairing arrangements and leadership precedence.
Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who led the APC as its governorship candidate in 2023, is determined to retain control of the party, citing his political stature and past contributions. Meanwhile, Keyamo, emboldened by his ministerial appointment, insists that his position as the highest-ranking political appointee in Delta APC makes him the rightful leader. This power tussle is not just about titles but also control of the party’s structure, which is crucial for determining the governorship candidate in the next elections.
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The reconciliation report has drawn sharp criticism, particularly over its recommendation that Senator Omo-Agege share leadership responsibilities with Keyamo. Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, a former representative of Delta North Senatorial District, expressed outrage at the suggestion, citing Nigeria’s official order of precedence, which places senators above ministers. “It is improper to equate a serving minister with a former Deputy Senate President and current APC Caucus member,” Nwaoboshi stated. He further argued that creating such parity undermines the integrity of the party’s hierarchy and ignores the fixed tenure and electoral mandate of senators.
The divisions have created factions within Delta APC, with one side rallying behind Omo-Agege and the other supporting Keyamo. This internal wrangling has left the party vulnerable, raising concerns that its disunity could provide an opportunity for opposition parties to strengthen their foothold in Delta State.
Adding to the complexity is the defection of Senator Ned Nwoko from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to APC, which has further shifted the internal dynamics. Amid these tensions, APC stalwarts like Jude Opara Tonye Timi have called for unity and inclusivity, urging members to prioritize the party’s collective success over individual ambitions. However, tangible steps toward reconciliation remain elusive as the power struggle continues to escalate.
The stakes for Delta APC have never been higher. With the 2027 elections looming, the party’s ability to resolve its internal disputes could determine its relevance in the state’s political landscape. The ongoing battle for leadership has exposed deep fractures, and the absence of decisive action risks alienating party members and supporters alike.
As the fight for the soul of Delta APC rages on, the question remains: will the party rise above its internal conflicts to present a united front, or will it crumble under the weight of its divisions? Only time will tell if the party’s leaders can put aside their differences for the greater good of Delta APC and its supporters.
