A deepening crisis is threatening to fracture the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State following explosive allegations of imposition, zoning manipulation, and executive interference in the party’s ongoing state congress process.
Ebiakpo Ezebri, a frontline aspirant for the Delta APC State Chairmanship, has publicly accused powerful figures within the party of orchestrating what he describes as a deliberate hijack of the process.
At the heart of the controversy is the sudden decision to zone the chairmanship position to Delta South, a move he insists contradicts an earlier consensus framework agreed upon by stakeholders to ensure inclusiveness and balance.
Even more controversial is the claim that a former Delta PDP chairman is being positioned to take control of the APC structure in the state, allegedly at the instance of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
While the governor’s direct role has not been officially confirmed, the mere suggestion of executive influence in internal party affairs has ignited outrage among party loyalists.
Ezebri’s statement paints a picture of a process shifting from collective agreement to what he calls calculated imposition.
He revealed that key meetings were reportedly held and far-reaching decisions taken without inviting or consulting all aspirants, including those who had met every constitutional requirement to contest.
“I purchased my nomination form for ₦1,050,000, paid all required dues, and have remained loyal to the party,” he stated, underscoring both his financial and political investment in the process.
For him, the issue transcends personal ambition. It is about internal democracy, fairness, and the integrity of party structures.
Political observers warn that the allegations, if left unaddressed, could deepen internal divisions within the Delta APC at a time when unity is strategically crucial.
Party congresses are traditionally seen as a test of a party’s democratic credentials.
Any perception of manipulation risks eroding trust among grassroots members and aspirants who have sacrificed time, resources, and loyalty to build the party’s presence in the state.
Ezebri maintains that he is not acting out of desperation but principle.
He cautioned that while power is transient, the consequences of injustice can linger long after political offices change hands.
His appeal is directed at party leaders to reflect and correct what he views as departures from the party’s constitution and the spirit of equity.
The unfolding situation has placed the Delta APC at a crossroads.
Whether the party chooses to revisit the contested decisions or presses forward amid dissent will determine not only the outcome of the chairmanship race but also its internal cohesion moving forward.
For now, the controversy signals more than a routine leadership contest.
It represents a high-stakes battle over control, legitimacy, and the future direction of the APC in Delta State, one that could redefine the party’s political architecture in the state for years to come.
