Uncertainty Grips Delta PDP Defectors as Okowa Directs Esiso to Reclaim Party Structure

A significant political upheaval has emerged in Delta State after former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and incumbent Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led a mass defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on April 23, 2025. This move has left the PDP’s structure in disarray and created uncertainty among defectors…….CONTINUE READING

In response, the PDP has taken decisive action to reclaim its presence in the state. The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) has directed the South-South zonal caretaker committee to oversee the PDP’s affairs in Delta State, effectively dissolving the existing state party structures. This move aims to stabilize and rebuild the party’s foundation in the region.

Complicating matters, many of the defectors have reportedly hesitated to formalize their transition to the APC. According to reports, some former PDP members aligned with Okowa and Oborevwori have been reluctant to officially resign from the PDP while seeking registration with the APC. This has led to confusion and a slow start to the APC’s registration process in parts of the state.

The PDP has also initiated legal proceedings against the defectors. The party’s Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, has been instructed to prepare legal documents to challenge the defections and reclaim the party’s mandate in Delta State. The PDP views the mass defection as a breach of trust by officials elected under its platform.

As the political landscape in Delta State continues to evolve, the PDP’s efforts to reestablish its presence and the uncertainty among defectors highlight the complexities of party allegiance and political strategy in Nigeria’s dynamic political environment.