Delta State House of Representatives member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, Honourable Julius Pondi, and prominent ward leaders of Ward 11 in Burutu Local Government Area have officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Pondi, who also serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, made the announcement during a strategic meeting with his ward caucus leaders, declaring that the decision aligns with the recent mass defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other top PDP figures in the state to the APC. Citing the need to follow the political direction of the state’s leadership, Pondi stated that it was time to reposition for greater access to federal and state development opportunities.
Addressing his supporters, Pondi said, “Today, history is being made. The PDP we have known for years is now behind us. There comes a time in politics when one must choose progress over sentiment. We have reached that point. From this day forward, Ward 11 is moving en masse to the APC. This decision mirrors what has already been agreed upon at the state level—wherever Sheriff goes, we go.”
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The move received overwhelming support from the ward leaders. A motion to officially exit the PDP and collapse the entire ward structure into the APC was moved by Hon. Bernard Okoh, seconded by Hon. Cedric Amu Itoto, and unanimously adopted through a voice vote. The caucus also passed a vote of confidence in Pondi, with a motion led by Barr. Samuel Ikporikpo and seconded by Elder Joseph Lamieghan, pledging total loyalty and support for his leadership.
Pondi emphasized that the defection was not about division but unity and a shared vision to uplift Burutu through the opportunities provided by the APC at both state and federal levels. He assured his constituents that the move would bring more developmental projects and enable better collaboration with the state government under Oborevwori.
“I want to assure all of you that this transition will usher in a new era of growth and opportunity. We are not here to fight old members; we are here to unite and make Burutu better for everyone,” he said.
The defection marks another significant blow to the PDP in Delta State, as political momentum continues to swing toward the APC ahead of future elections.
