The political atmosphere in Delta State has been charged as prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have raised concerns over rumors that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a strongly worded open letter, signed by Theophilus Ekiyor, Ochuko Oghenekome, and Ezekiel Chukwudi, the Concerned Leaders of the PDP accused Governor Oborevwori of secretly aligning with the APC to secure his governorship position ahead of the 2027 elections. The letter, titled “Open Letter to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to Confirm the Rumours of His Planned Defection to the APC,” expressed deep disappointment over what they termed a betrayal of party trust.
The letter alleged that Governor Oborevwori has been meeting with top aides of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to discuss his defection. These meetings reportedly intensified after the governor’s involvement in coordinating activities with the presidency during the festive season.
According to the PDP leaders, the governor’s recent actions—such as openly endorsing President Tinubu’s policies and programs—have given credence to the defection rumors. At a recent Urhobo Progressives Union gathering, Governor Oborevwori reportedly declared, “If President Tinubu fails, I also fail,” a statement viewed as a clear indication of his intent to join the APC.
The letter also accused the governor of creating divisions within the Delta APC by allegedly sponsoring dissident groups and placing certain party leaders on his payroll to weaken the party’s internal structure.
The PDP leaders further expressed frustration over the governor’s exclusionary policies since assuming office, noting that many party faithful who worked tirelessly for his emergence have yet to be rewarded. They argued that his alleged defection plans undermine the collective efforts of the PDP in Delta State, which has been the dominant political force since 1999.
Read Also: Police arrest woman for abandoning newborn baby in FCT
The open letter did not mince words in demanding a swift response from Governor Oborevwori:
“Your silence on these rumors has left us in the dark, and a delayed response will be taken as confirmation of your compromised position. We demand clarity on your political intentions and reassurance of your loyalty to the PDP.”
The Concerned Leaders also warned that the governor’s actions could have far-reaching implications for the party’s fortunes in Delta State, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.
“Your defection would not only jeopardize the PDP’s stronghold in the state but also leave our members without direction. If you abandon the PDP, under which platform should our representatives and aspiring candidates run in the next election? Are they expected to follow you to the APC?”
The letter ended with a call for transparency and a stern warning:
“We will not stand idly by while the party’s hard-earned legacy is undermined. If you refuse to address these concerns, we will be left with no choice but to take necessary actions to protect the party’s interests.”
As the allegations swirl, the silence from Governor Oborevwori’s camp has only fueled further speculation. While his spokespersons have yet to issue an official statement, political analysts in Delta State suggest that this controversy could mark a turning point for both the governor and the PDP in the state.
The PDP has long been a political party in Delta State, and its leaders are determined to maintain their dominance. However, the governor’s rumored defection and alleged alliances with the APC present a significant challenge to the party’s unity.
For now, all eyes remain on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as party members and constituents await his response to these explosive allegations. Will he reaffirm his loyalty to the PDP, or will he cross the political divide? The stakes couldn’t be higher.
