***VP Shettima to lead formal reception April 28
In a stunning realignment of Nigeria’s political landscape, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, and a host of top political leaders have formally dumped the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC)—ending the PDP’s 26-year dominance in the state.
The defection, which was announced on Wednesday at a closed-door meeting with stakeholders at Government House, Asaba, sets the stage for a dramatic shift ahead of the 2027 general elections. Oborevwori directed all PDP stakeholders in the state to follow suit and join the APC en masse.
The governor, his deputy, former governor and ex-PDP Vice-Presidential candidate Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the National Assembly, State Assembly, commissioners, local government chairmen, and top political aides were all in attendance.
The governor and his allies are scheduled to be officially received into the APC at a rally to be held at the Cenotaph in Asaba on Monday, April 28, where Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to lead the welcoming delegation.
Speaking to journalists, Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, cited disillusionment with the national leadership of the PDP as a key reason for the move.
“For some time, speculation has been rife about our next political move. This decision follows extensive consultation with leaders and stakeholders. The political taste of the PDP has changed—like palm wine gone sour—and our drinking pattern must change too,” Aniagwu said.
He added that the move to the APC was not only strategic but necessary to continue development across the state and maintain unity among political actors.
Echoing similar sentiments, Senator James Manager, pioneer state chairman of the PDP, said the defection was a survival move.
“One cannot remain in a sinking boat. This decision was not taken lightly but after honest consultation. The PDP as it stands today cannot effectively contest against a sitting president with only 11 governors. The leadership vacuum and internal disunity are undeniable,” Manager stated.
He also referenced a recent PDP Governors’ Forum meeting in Ibadan, where leaders reportedly resolved not to collaborate with any other political platforms. That decision, he said, further alienated many within the party.
The mass defection dramatically alters the political balance in the South-South, historically a PDP stronghold. With over 1.4 million registered voters in Delta, the APC now gains significant momentum in the region and a major boost for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
The development is expected to trigger further realignments across other PDP-controlled states and may accelerate internal crises already simmering within the opposition party.
