Delta State’s political landscape shifted sharply on Sunday as former Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, was formally received into the All Progressives Congress and declared his intention to contest the Delta Central Senatorial seat, setting the stage for an intense battle ahead of the next general election.
Muoboghare’s entry into the APC was marked by a large gathering at his Uwheru ward in Ughelli North Local Government Area, where party leaders, grassroots supporters, and defectors from rival parties converged in a show of strength and renewed momentum. The Delta State Chairman of the APC, Elder Omeni Sobotie, led the reception, describing the development as a major boost for the party’s fortunes in the state.
Addressing supporters after his formal acceptance, Muoboghare said his decision to leave his former party and pitch his tent with the APC was based on the need for political order, stability, and credible representation for Delta Central at the National Assembly. He announced his readiness to seek the senatorial ticket, stressing that his political future could no longer be tied to a platform riddled with internal crises.
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He said his former party had lost its operational structure and capacity to support serious political ambition, arguing that unresolved leadership disputes had made it impossible to function effectively. According to him, no aspirant could confidently pursue nomination under such uncertainty.
Using vivid imagery to explain his defection, Muoboghare said returning to his former party was no longer an option, describing it as a structure that had collapsed beyond repair. He insisted that his move was both strategic and necessary, adding that politics required clarity, direction, and a solid platform.
Welcoming him into the party, APC Chairman in Ughelli North, Mr. Samuel Evighoyowhi, described Muoboghare’s defection as a strategic gain that would strengthen the party ahead of future elections. He said the former commissioner’s credentials, experience, and grassroots appeal would significantly improve APC’s chances in Delta Central.
Evighoyowhi noted that the party was witnessing steady growth across the local government, with more politicians and supporters leaving rival parties to join the APC. He expressed confidence that the trend would continue in the coming weeks.
Also speaking, APC leader in Uwheru Ward, Chief Simeon Owhofa, described the occasion as historic and long awaited, noting that Muoboghare was a respected academic and administrator with deep roots in the community. He recalled the professor’s service as a three time Commissioner for Education and said his decision to join the APC marked a turning point for the party in the area.
Owhofa said party members who had laboured for years in opposition were encouraged by the development, adding that Muoboghare’s arrival symbolised a new phase of unity and strength. He expressed confidence that the APC would record sweeping victories in Uwheru and beyond, declaring that the party was now firmly positioned to challenge for power in Delta State.
