In an interview on Channel TV, Mr Fred Oghensivbe, the Director-General of Delta State Orientation and Communication, shed light on the recent political upheavals surrounding defections in the state. His comments specifically focused on the controversial defection of Erhiatake Ibori, the daughter of former Governor James Ibori, who represents the Ethiope Federal Constituency.
According to Oghensivbe, prior to the 2023 general elections, there was a clear agreement that the representative seat for the constituency would rotate between the two local governments that make up the federal constituency. This agreement, Oghensivbe emphasized, had been respected by former representatives, including Ben Ibakpa, who, during his time in office, delivered substantial progress for the region. However, the recent shift of Ibori’s daughter to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked allegations of dishonesty and a breach of trust.
Oghensivbe accused Ibori’s daughter of not adhering to the established rotation agreement, accusing her of abandoning her duties to the party. He noted that since being elected, she had been absent from party activities and meetings, which led to her eventual defection. “It’s as though she has been with the APC from the start. So, her departure doesn’t surprise us,” Oghensivbe stated.
The Director-General also outlined the legal ramifications of her defection, stating that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had already taken steps to challenge the move. “We’ve gone to court, and we’ve urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election,” Oghensivbe confirmed. He also referred to an affidavit signed by Ibori’s daughter in 2022, wherein she pledged to vacate her seat if she ever defected to another political party. “Under Section 68, Subsection 1 of the Constitution, any defection from the party that sponsored a candidate results in the automatic loss of their seat,” he added.
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Despite the ongoing challenges, Oghensivbe emphasized that the PDP in Delta State remains strong and united. He drew a sharp contrast between the political situation in Delta and the turmoil in Rivers State, where defections have caused significant rifts. “PDP in Delta is one,” he said, asserting that the party had performed well in the last elections and would continue to thrive despite the defections.
Oghensivbe also addressed rumours surrounding Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, who is said to have defected to the APC. While he acknowledged that Nwoko’s defection was anticipated, he criticized the senator for failing to cooperate with the party. “Since becoming a senator, he has not been engaging with the party, and his actions seem to be against the interests of the state,” Oghensivbe remarked. He further asserted that, Nwoko’s defection is a temporary setback for the PDP, as the party remains poised to reclaim all three senatorial districts in the 2027 general elections. “The PDP is stronger than ever in Delta, thanks to the performance of Governor Sheriff Oborewori,” he said.
Addressing the speculation about Governor Oborewori’s political allegiance, Oghensivbe firmly rejected the idea that the governor would defect to the APC. “Governor Oborewori remains the leader of the PDP in Delta State, and he is committed to leading the party to victory in 2027,” he declared.
As the legal battles surrounding the defections continue and the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Delta State. The unfolding drama over party loyalty, defections, and leadership decisions will undoubtedly shape the future of the state’s political environment, with significant implications for the upcoming elections.