President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday described the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure in the state to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as an unprecedented political development.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at a ceremony held at the Cenotaph in Asaba, Tinubu called the event a “political tsunami of unimaginable proportions,” noting its significance in both Delta State and the South-South region.
“This is the first time in history that an entire state structure – including the Governor, former Governor, National Assembly members, State Assembly, and 500 councillors – has moved en masse to the APC,” Shettima said. He praised the unity between Governor Oborevwori and Senator Okowa, describing them as symbols of visionary and respectful leadership.
Shettima added that the move reflected the strength of APC’s inclusive politics: “We welcome you not as defectors but as brothers and sisters who have found their rightful place. This is now your party as much as it is ours.”
Governor Oborevwori, in his response, emphasized that the switch to the APC was more than a defection—it was a movement grounded in widespread consultation and unity.
“This is not a defection; it’s a movement. We consulted from the national to the ward level. Delta cannot be left behind. We have been in opposition for nearly a decade. With the love and support shown by President Tinubu, it’s time to reciprocate,” he stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to unifying the APC in Delta State: “There will be no more factions. As Governor, I’m taking charge. Everyone will queue behind a united party for development, peace, and progress.”
Former Governor Okowa echoed this sentiment, saying the decision to join the APC was driven by the state’s best interests rather than personal ambitions. He highlighted the importance of aligning with the federal government to access needed resources and political support.
“Governor Oborevwori is doing well, but working in alignment with Abuja will only strengthen his efforts,” Okowa noted.
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje welcomed the defectors, commending the rare and cordial relationship between Okowa and Oborevwori. He also praised Oborevwori’s leadership style as aligning with the APC’s progressive values.
Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, described the event as historic and urged Deltans to continue supporting their Governor.
The ceremony was attended by 16 APC governors, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and other top party officials.
