In a dramatic political shift, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement was made on Wednesday in Asaba by Senator James Manager, following a marathon six-hour meeting held at the Government House. Describing the PDP as a “sinking boat,” Manager confirmed that the defection includes the state governor, former governor, Speaker of the House, state party chairman, all local government chairmen, and other top stakeholders.
“We cannot continue to be in a sinking boat,” Manager declared, underscoring the consensus reached among party leaders to realign politically — a sentiment that echoes earlier moves, such as Senator Ned Nwoko’s defection to the APC, further signaling the growing momentum behind the political shift in Delta State
Speaking on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Information Charles Aniagwu offered further insight into the rationale behind the sweeping defection. He framed the move as essential to sustaining development, deepening democratic institutions, and enhancing security across Delta State.
“There is a need for us to adjust our drinking patterns,” Aniagwu said metaphorically. “And in doing so, we needed to make a decision that would consolidate the progress achieved in the state. Leaving the PDP was necessary to forge new alliances that prioritize the welfare and aspirations of our people.”
Aniagwu likened the state of the PDP to “palm wine whose taste has changed,” saying the time had come to “change the drinking party.”
He emphasized that the decision was unanimous among party leaders and hinted at an imminent public declaration.
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“By the grace of God, on Monday next week, we will make a significant statement confirming our movement into the APC,” he said.
The mass defection marks a pivotal and unprecedented moment in Delta State’s political landscape, representing not only a shift in local governance but a broader realignment that could significantly alter party dynamics across the South-South geopolitical zone. The development comes after months of speculation and political analysis pointing to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s possible move to the APC — claims he repeatedly denied at the time. His eventual defection, along with that of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the entire PDP structure in the state, now confirms what many had long suspected and signals a major reshaping of political alliances in the region.
