By Sunday Apah

Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, has attributed the mass exodus of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ongoing internal strife within the PDP’s National Working Committee.

In an appearance on Day Break on Arise TV on Tuesday, Aniagwu expressed concerns over unresolved leadership conflicts, a lack of unity, and numerous legal challenges facing the PDP, all of which he believes have driven many Deltans to the ruling APC.

He stated that the current state of the PDP no longer addresses the expectations of the people of Delta due to the party’s persistent turmoil.

“Politics involves contesting elections, winning, and effectively governing the populace. If you find yourself in a situation that hampers these objectives and developmental progress, it becomes crucial to make a choice,” Aniagwu explained.

“Moreover, even during our time in the PDP, the President extended genuine support to us. Therefore, aligning ourselves with such a leader is not a hard decision. We are aware of the national sentiments and concerns, but we have communicated our rationale to our constituents, which is vital for a thriving democracy.”

Aniagwu clarified that the transition to the APC should not be seen as defection, but rather a strategic and thoughtful move. “There were extensive consultations before making this decision. The Governor has emphasized that this is a movement, not a defection. Every faction of our former party, the PDP, which has held power for 26 years, has now transitioned to the APC to promote sustained growth and development in our state.”

“Change is often regarded as a constant in life; however, I have come to realize that decision-making is even more constant—after all, change stems from decisions. Every rational individual makes choices to achieve their goals and fulfill their purpose.”

Aniagwu acknowledged the advancements made under Governor Oborevwori’s administration in the past two years, highlighting significant developmental achievements statewide.

“No one can deny the progress we have accomplished. However, for us to maintain this momentum, we needed to establish a connection with the center—an authority that has consistently demonstrated goodwill, especially when the political foundation we were on began to show serious faults.”

He expressed disappointment regarding the PDP’s leadership dynamics. “At the National Working Committee level, it became increasingly difficult to comprehend the party leaders’ actions, their allegiance, or their overall direction. This lack of clarity necessitated our decision to act in order to continue fulfilling our commitments to the people.”

Aniagwu pointed out the well-documented internal issues within the PDP, including the frequent delays in National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.

“These delays felt like flat tires at critical junctures. We were hopeful for resolutions and even participated in discussions to find solutions, but it became evident that the crisis was too deep-seated to resolve.”

“As an administration, we aim to enhance the welfare of our citizens and fulfill the mandate outlined in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which declares that the primary goal of government is the security and welfare of the populace. Are we achieving this in Delta? To the best of my knowledge, yes. No one disputes the performance of Governor Oborevwori.”

Aniagwu reiterated the importance of aligning with a federal government that provides consistent support. “To amplify our impact, we found it essential to engage with a central government that has always been supportive. We cannot sacrifice that goodwill for emotional reasons.”

While recognizing the value of political opposition in a democracy, Aniagwu expressed hope that the PDP would eventually rectify its internal conflicts.

“We do not wish for the PDP to be rendered obsolete now or in the future. A strong opposition is crucial for any democratic system.

However, individuals must make decisions that enable them to achieve their aspirations.”

He dismissed concerns about Nigeria evolving into a one-party state. “In time, individuals will continue to make choices in pursuit of their goals.”

“We have made a decision aimed at fostering development in our state, and we are confident that, in partnership with our people, this move will enhance progress in Delta.”

…Our Defection To APC Is A Movement – Oborevwori

By Sunday Apah

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Monday, described the defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire structure of Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to the All Progressives Congress, APC as a political tsunami of unimaginable proportions.

President Tinubu stated this while receiving Governor Oborevwori, immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and the entire membership of the PDP to the APC at the Cenotaph, Asaba.

Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the President lauded Governor Oborevwori and Senator Okowa for the cordial relationship between them and for leading members of the PDP to the APC.

He said: “What can be greater than the promise of this day? This is a political tsunami of unimaginable proportion that has never happened in the history of the South-South region and barely in the history of this country.

“A political tsunami of this proportion has never happened where all the members of the upper chamber of the National Assembly are in the APC.

“The Speaker and all the members of the House of Assembly. So many members of the House of Representatives, the Governor and his entire cabinet and 500 councillors across the 25 local government areas of this great state. What testimony do you have greater than this?

“The true measure of a political party lies not merely in the industry, the very name of its members, but in the conviction. It is in fact among those who once stood across from them.

“This vindication is even more fundamental. When those who once saw us as outsiders and opponents, crossed the lines of difference to become part of the enduring family we have built.

“This historic day, therefore, is both a celebration of the enduring promise of the APC and a tribute to the vision, courage, and foresight of the great giants we have come to welcome into the hall of fame of our political party, along with their devoted followers who are joining us today.

“I want to pay special tribute to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for the wonderful relationship that exists between him and his successor.

“Senator Okowa, you are indeed a great leader and Governor Oborevwori, for embracing him, for treating him with respect and decorum, you are even a greater leader.” he said.

“We are here with our unshaken belief in the power of collaboration, the understanding that we are stronger together than we can ever be, apart.

“What sets the APC apart is not an illusion of uniformity; it is our accepting that differences are inevitable and that greatness lies in managing them.

“Our tables have always been tables of dialogue, places where every member, no matter how big or small, is welcome to air their grievances.

“Your Excellencies Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the other great men and women, we welcome you to the APC today.

“I bring them the warm assurance of His Excellency President Bola, Ahmed Tinubu, and all members of the APC.

“Now that you have come, we are all co-owners because, according to the constitution of the party, the Governor of the party is the leader of the party in the state, this is now as much as your party as it is ours.

“You have brought to us a wealth of experience, a breath of wisdom and a measure of strength for which we shall always remain grateful.

“This is a declaration that the strength of our great nation is alive, a spirit that brings your personal ambition, your party alliance and sees the larger set of history.

“Nigeria is greater than all of us and what we do here today is a step towards strengthening our promise. We welcome you, Your Excellency, not as defectors but as brothers and sisters who have found your rightful place amongst us.

“We welcome you not as guests but as family; we welcome you as fellow architects of a better Nigeria and may this day be remembered not just by what it signifies today but for the enduring fraternity and vision of source for tomorrow.”

Responding, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described the defection as a historic movement in the best interest of the state.

He pledged to unify the party to ensure total victory for it in the coming elections.

Oborevwori said; “what you have seen here today is a movement: it’s not a defection; it’s a movement. We have done consultations with our National Assembly members, with leadership, with stakeholders at the state level, at the senatorial level, at the local government level, at the ward level and we all decided that we must all join.

“This is Delta State; we cannot carry last. When we stand for something, we remain committed to it; we have been in opposition for almost 10 years.

“Do we need that? Mr. President has supported us, he has shown us love. We cannot face him in 2027 to work against him. That love that he has shown to us in Delta State, we need to reciprocate it.

“We cannot do it in our own party. We have to be inside to do it, and to do it well”, saying; “when you consult widely you see everybody will come with you and you can see that the love is organic: you can see my relationship with governors; you see all the governors here.

“You see the large number of governors: yesterday 9 came and slept over. Today, see all of them here. I want to bless all of you; I want to thank all of you.

“This is a movement: this is not a defection; we have agreed we will move together and when we move together, what is at the national we will be able to grab it.

“Our members in the National Assembly they are the next; they have agreed they will all defect on the floor of the house, and we have justification to move.

“All of us want to be in the Renew Hope Agenda which is in line with my MORE Agenda. ”

He stressed, “For us in Delta State, it’s a statement and I believe other governors will join because it’s a movement and when you have a movement, you don’t fail.

“There are some things people say in newspapers, that there is confusion, there is a faction in Delta APC. As I have come, there will be no faction again. Let me tell you, the Governor takes charge, and we are taking charge.

“I don’t believe in any faction, whether Omo-Agege or Keyamo faction, everybody must queue and we will unite the party to move this state forward for the benefit of our people and to bring development, peace and unity to our state and Nigeria.”

National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, applauded the cordial relationship between the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

Ganduje said the National Working Committee, NWC of the party was highly impressed because of the cordial relationship existing between the predecessor and successor which, according to him, was very rare in the country.

“So, we have to thank Dr. Okowa for that good relationship. Ladies and gentlemen, my job is very important which is accepting, welcoming and also, embracing the Governor and the people of Delta State into our great party, the APC.

“Mr. Governor, what l would like to tell you while accepting you into our party, is that our core value in APC is progressive leadership and coincidently, from what we have seen on the ground in respect of your programmes and your projects, you are a progressive Governor.

“So, we are welcoming you for coming home. We believe in progressive ideas, we believe in proximity, interacting with different levels of our party; we believe in openness, we believe in internal democracy, we believe in self -accountability and we thank you for coming in,” he said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma said the ceremony was quite historic and special in the life of the APC as a political party.

Senator Uzodinma, who disclosed that members of the APC were happy with the new political development in Delta State, said that the All Progressives Congress meant well for the country.

“We are here to identify with you. We, therefore, urge all Deltans to continue to support their Governor as he consolidates on the achievements his administration has recorded so far,” he added.

On his part, the immediate past Governor of the State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa explained that the decision to change political direction was made for the common good and in the best interest of the state.

“It was not about personal ambitions but the need to connect to Abuja, where significant goodwill and resources exist, especially since the state is a major contributor.

Reflecting on his experience as a former governor in opposition, Okowa emphasized that while Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was performing well, aligning with Abuja would strengthen his efforts.

He called for strong support for both the President and the Governor, believing that the unity would allow them to dominate the political landscape of Delta State.

The ceremony was attended by 16 Governors of the APC and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Benjamin Kalu, among others.

By Sunday Apah 

Pan regional Development group, the Niger Delta Development Agenda (NDDA), has described the Senator representing Delta South, Sen. Joel Thomas Onowakpo FCA, as a quintessential statesman who has redefined leadership with a knack for development of the Niger Delta region.

Contained in a statement of felicitation with Senator Joel Onowakpo on his birthday, the group’s Convener, Comrade Iteveh Nur’ Ekpokpobe in Abuja, said Senator Onowakpo through his leadership direction has triggered a chain of events that profess only positivity for the Niger Delta region.

According to Iteveh, “Onowakpo, who is Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content, is a seasoned finance technocrat and accomplished politician who has over the years, through hard work and commitment carved a niche for excellence.”

“As a group, we testify to Onowakpo’s dexterity on the floor of the senate which is reflected in the quality of bills and projects he has attracted to the Delta South Senatorial district vis-a-vis the Niger Delta region.

“Senator Onowakpo has displayed a rare spirit of interethnic cohesion, hence his ability to manage the cultural multiplicity of the Delta South district. As we felicitate with him on his birthday, we urge constituents to continue to give him all requisite support to enable him to pilot our affairs even better.” The statement read.

By Sunday Apah

In the intricate web of Nigerian politics, defections have become a recurring theme, shaping the dynamics of party allegiance and influence.

Recently, Delta State has witnessed a significant political shift with the reported defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

This momentous event marks a new chapter in the political landscape of the state, and its reverberations are being felt across its expanse.

The sentiments and reactions following this political maneuver are substantial, with the chorus resonating among supporters being, “Anywhere Sheriff goes, we go.”

The streets of Delta are alive with songs that echo loyalty to Sheriff and his mandate as governor.

The stakeholders’ meeting held in Asaba, where Governor Oborevwori disclosed his decision, set the foundation for this significant political shift.

The meeting was attended by notable political figures and representatives from various local governments in the state.

During the meeting, Oborevwori articulated his reasons for the defection, emphasizing the strategic advantages that aligning with the APC could bring to Delta State.

The endorsement from the stakeholders present at the meeting underscored a united front, one that many believe could galvanize political strength and collective action in the state.

The atmosphere during and after the announcement was electrifying. Supporters of the governor took to the streets, singing and dancing, declaring their unwavering loyalty to him.

The refrain “On Sheriff Mandate We Stand” became a rallying cry, an anthem encapsulating the resolve of his supporters.

Public sentiment is palpable, with many asserting that the defection marks a turning point in the political ecosystem of Delta State.

This has led to declarations that the PDP, in light of Sheriff’s departure, is effectively dead in the state.

While Governor Oborevwori’s defection may indeed create a vacuum within the PDP, it is crucial to analyze the broader implications of such shifts.

Political defections are not merely about individual politicians; they often signify deeper, systemic changes within party dynamics.

For some, loyalty to the man may surpass that to the party, while others may feel disenchanted, potentially leading to a decline in membership and support for the PDP.

Supporters of Sheriff firmly believe that aligning with the APC positions Delta State within the national political mainstream, projecting the idea that the state can benefit from the policies and resources associated with being part of a ruling party at the federal level.

The belief is that by being part of the APC, Delta can attract federal projects, developmental aid, and a voice in national policy-making.

This has sparked optimism among many who see Sheriff as a beacon of hope, capable of bringing about transformative changes that will benefit communities across Delta.

On Monday, April 28, 2025, a new dawn in the politics of Delta State is expected, as all former PDP members, who constitute the majority in the state, pledge allegiance to the APC.

The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the APC National Chairman, and others are expected to be on hand to receive the “Omorotomo” of Urhobo Nation” into the APC.

By Sunday Apah 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has expressed shock and sadness over the untimely death of Chief Mrs. Shemite Love, who, until her passing, served as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Export and Trade.

Mrs. Love passed away at approximately 3am on Monday, leaving a deep void in the hearts of the members of the PDP she worked alongside with.

In a statement released on behalf of the party by Olorogun Sunday Apah, the State Publicity Secretary, paid tribute to Mrs. Love’s invaluable contributions to the state and her commitment to the advancement of its export and trade sectors.

“Her passion for fostering economic growth and her tireless efforts to promote the State’s Government M.O.R.E Agenda have made a lasting impact,” the statement read.

The PDP’s statement highlighted Mrs. Love’s extensive experience and notable achievements in her role as Special Adviser, where she worked diligently to enhance trade opportunities and nurture relationships between local businesses and international markets.

Her expertise was instrumental in shaping policies aimed at boosting the state’s economy and encouraging entrepreneurship.

“Chief Mrs. Shemite Love was not just a dedicated public servant; she was a beacon of hope and inspiration for many,” Apah noted.

The PDP extended its heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Love’s family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to work alongside her.