By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Asaba
DELTA: Delta State witnessed a historic political shift on Monday as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure in the state officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a grand ceremony held at the Cenotaph in Asaba.
Speaking at the event, which drew 16 APC governors and key national figures, Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described the defection as a “political tsunami of unimaginable proportions.” Shettima noted that it was unprecedented for a whole state structure — from the Governor, former Governor, National Assembly and State Assembly members, to over 500 councillors — to move en masse to another party.
“This is a historic and strategic moment not only for Delta but for the entire South-South region. We are not receiving defectors today; we are welcoming brothers and sisters who have found their rightful place,” Shettima said.
Governor Oborevwori, addressing a jubilant crowd, made it clear that the move was well-considered and aimed at ensuring Delta’s alignment with the federal government for accelerated development.
“This is not just a defection; it is a movement born out of widespread consultation across all levels. Delta must no longer be left behind. With the love and support shown by President Tinubu, we are charting a new course,” Oborevwori declared.
Taking a bold stance, the Governor announced that he was firmly taking control of the political structure in Delta, promising to foster unity within the APC.
“There will be no factions. I am taking charge as Governor and every other person will queue behind a united APC for development, peace, and progress,” Oborevwori emphasized.
Former Governor Okowa, who shared the podium with Oborevwori, explained that their decision was not driven by personal interest but by a genuine desire to see Delta prosper.
“We are here for the best interest of Delta. Governor Oborevwori is already doing well, but partnering with the federal government will open more doors for our people,” Okowa noted.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, commended the unity between Oborevwori and Okowa, describing it as a model of leadership that places the people first. He praised Oborevwori’s leadership style, saying it aligns perfectly with the progressive spirit of the APC.
Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, also hailed the development as monumental, calling on Deltans to rally behind Governor Oborevwori in the new journey.
The defection ceremony, described by political analysts as one of the most significant in Nigeria’s recent political history, is expected to reshape the political dynamics not just in Delta but across the South-South zone.