By Ghazali Ibrahim
Delta State’s political landscape is shaking under the weight of a high-profile realignment, as former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, running mate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election defected to All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.
The announcement came on Wednesday after a closed-door meeting at the Government House in Asaba, where Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy, and all commissioners also declared their defection to the APC.
Senator James Manager, a former PDP stalwart, confirmed the mass defection, stating that the governor, former Governor Okowa, the Speaker, the state party chairman, and all local government chairmen had agreed to join the APC.
In a video circulating online, Okowa addressed his constituents, assuring them that the decision to switch parties was carefully considered and made in their best interest.
This mass defection marks the first time the PDP has lost control of Delta State since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Political analysts view this as a significant realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, potentially altering the balance of power in the South-South region.
However, Minister for Aviation and Aerospace development, Festus Keyamo expressed his utmost satisfaction in the recent political move in Delta state.
In his words, “Today is the day the Lord has made in Delta State. Finally, finally Delta is APC! Thank you, Mr. President for your leadership that has attracted the best to our Party. Thank you, my leader & Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori for your foresight and courage in taking this bold decision”.
As the political landscape shifts, all eyes are on Delta State to see how these changes will influence the region’s future and the broader national political dynamics.
