In a major political shift, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This change in allegiance was revealed after a private meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Wednesday evening. Governor Oborevwori’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, confirmed the move, explaining that it followed thorough consultations with key political figures and was aimed at advancing the long-term development of Delta State.

Oborevwori’s decision to leave the PDP comes after a wave of defections from the party, including over 5,000 members and prominent figures like Senator Ned Nwoko, former House of Representatives member Nicholas Ossai, and Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru. These exits were driven by growing discontent with the party’s internal leadership, which seems to have influenced the Governor’s decision to join the APC.

The defection has stirred mixed reactions within the political community. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Deputy President of the Senate, called on Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to stay with the PDP, making it clear that they were not welcome in the APC. He added that while the APC is open to other defections from the PDP, Oborevwori and Okowa do not align with the party’s direction.

Meanwhile, the APC’s leadership in Delta State welcomed the Governor’s decision, attributing it to the progress under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. They expressed confidence that Delta State would benefit from the APC’s development policies, which they believe can help address the state’s challenges.

Political analysts view this defection as a significant move in preparation for the 2027 general elections. It is expected to reshape the political dynamics in Delta State, with the potential to influence voter behavior and party loyalties. The defection of a sitting governor is expected to further strengthen the APC’s position in the state, triggering additional political realignments.

Governor Oborevwori’s shift to the APC marks a critical point in Delta State’s political evolution. While reactions have been mixed, the move highlights the changing nature of political affiliations and the strategic calculations behind such decisions. As the 2027 elections approach, the full effects of this defection on the state’s political landscape will become clearer.