Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and twenty other APC governors, will on Monday formally welcome Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, into the ruling party.
It was gathered that as of Sunday, 27th April, ten APC governors — including those of Imo, Cross River, Edo, Kogi, Ekiti, Kwara, Ogun, Yobe, Katsina, and Gombe states — had already arrived in Asaba, the Delta State capital, ahead of the event.
More governors are expected to arrive on Monday to join the high-profile ceremony.
Also present in Asaba are APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and former APC National Chairman, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
The defection ceremony is scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m. at the Cenotaph in Asaba, with the venue already adorned with fresh coats of paint and APC flags fluttering at strategic locations.
Meanwhile, the leadership of Delta APC has urged members to welcome the influx of new members with open arms, describing it as a sign of consolidation and growth ahead of future elections.
In a statement, APC State Publicity Secretary Valentine Onojeghuo hailed the defection as a “landmark event” that has “shattered the political firmament” of Delta State.
The statement reads, “Marks a new dawn for the progressive family in Delta State and symbolizes unity, inclusivity and our collective commitment to the growth and development of our dear Delta State under the leadership and guidance of our amiable governor, H.E. Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as he charts a new course for the destiny of the State through the M.O.R.E. agenda in conjunction with the Renewed Hope agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.
Former Deputy Senate President, Oharisi Ovie Omo-Agege also welcomed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the party.
In a statement he personally signed, lauded President Tinubu’s “political sagacity and visionary leadership,” expressing gratitude also to the APC National Chairman and the National Working Committee for their steadfast support.
He assured that all arising issues are being addressed “with prudence and foresight,” following thorough consultations with the APC national leadership, the Progressive Governors Forum, and local stakeholders.
“This is a moment for unity, understanding, and a shared commitment to the progress of Delta State and Nigeria,” he stated, while calling on party members, executives, and supporters to storm Asaba on Monday, April 28, 2025, for a massive welcome rally.
The defection, according to Omo-Agege, “reaffirms our commitment to progressive governance, promising a brighter future for our people and a more prosperous, secure, and united Nigeria.”
The Executive Director (Business Development), NEXIM Bank, Stella Okotete expressed excitement at the defection of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In welcoming Governor Oborevwori and several prominent PDP leaders, including former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, into the governing party, Okotete, a former APC National Woman Leader, said this development will not only strengthen the party but also enhance its chances of achieving greater success in the coming years, particularly in the South-South geopolitical zone and beyond.
Okotete, in a statement, said: “This momentous decision marks not just a political transition, but a bold affirmation of vision, courage, and commitment to the development of Delta State through inclusive, progressive governance. Your Excellency, your entry into the APC is a powerful testament to our party’s rising influence and capacity to unite all well-meaning leaders under one formidable umbrella of growth and transformation.
“As we welcome the Governor and all the PDP members in Delta state into our fold, I call on every APC member—leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots supporters alike—to embrace this new era with open arms and renewed purpose. Let us put aside all divisive tendencies and prioritize loyalty to the party, unity of purpose, and service-driven governance.
“Our collective strength lies in our unity. And today, with Delta State now firmly aligned with the centre, we stand at the threshold of greatness. Together, let us consolidate our efforts towards the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, support the leadership of Governor Oborevwori, and ensure the continuous growth and dominance of the APC in every corner of our state.
“A progressive Delta is not a dream—it is our present reality. Let us build it, protect it, and be proud of it”.
Recall that several APC leaders including Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo SAN, Delta APC Founding Leader, Olorogun Otega Emerhor; former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe; Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Sen. Joel Onowakpo-Thomas; his Delta Central counterpart, Sen. Ede Dafinone have all welcomed the defection of the governor to the party.
Also, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi hailed the defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other key member from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a bold and strategic move.
In a statement by his media aide Mr.Ike Abiagom, Nwaoboshi said Delta State APC family welcomes Governor Oborevwori and other PDP leaders into its fold, describing their entry as a significant boost to the party’s strength and structure across the state.
Nwaoboshi said the political realignment would bolster President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
He described the development as a game changer for Delta APC,and praised the governor’s bold decision to join the APC.
He added it was a strategic step toward unity, progress, and the advancement of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Nwaoboshi maintained that the defection signifies a turning point for governance and political collaboration in the state and urged all APC members to embrace the new entrants with open arms, stressing that unity within the party would be crucial for delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
He said, “As you step into this new chapter with the APC, be assured of my unwavering support and that of many other progressives who believe in building bridges rather than walls. Together, we shall work to consolidate this momentum and build a Delta State that is not only united but strategically positioned to benefit immensely from its new alignment with the Federal Government.
“We look forward to working together for the betterment of Delta State and in strong support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visionary leadership.I urge all APC faithful to welcome Governor Oborevwori and incoming members with open arms.”
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