PDP Reacts to Oborevwori, Okowa Defection to APC

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as “sad and unfortunate.”

The move ends the PDP’s 26-year control of Delta State, a long-time party stronghold since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. The two leaders, along with their political allies, officially joined the APC on Wednesday, April 23.

Reacting in Abuja, PDP acting National Chairman, Umar Iliya Damagum, admitted the party was shocked by the defection.

“If there’s any state we least expected this from, it’s Delta. We gave them everything; support, structure, and even our vice presidential ticket in 2023.” he said.

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Despite the setback, Damagum urged members to stay focused, calling the moment a test of faith. “We are a party that has weathered greater storms. We have decided to leave our fate in the hands of God,” he added

Damagum also referenced Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s performance in the 2023 election as proof that political structures no longer guarantee victory.

He warned that the 2027 elections would be judged not by party loyalty but by citizens lived experiences. “It will be APC versus Nigerians. Nigerians will judge based on their suffering, not slogans” he said.

Damagum criticised the current government over worsening economic hardship, arguing that public support cannot be won through defections alone.

Despite losing Delta, he expressed confidence in the PDP’s future.