Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed confidence that more governors from opposition parties will soon defect to the ruling party. This statement was made during a ceremony in Asaba, Delta State, where Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa officially joined the APC.
*Defection Ceremony*
The ceremony, attended by several APC governors and national leaders, marked a significant shift in Delta State's political landscape. Oborevwori's defection ended the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) nearly 26-year dominance in the state. Ganduje handed over the APC flag to Oborevwori, welcoming him and Okowa into the party ¹.
*Reasons Behind the Defection*
Okowa explained that the decision to join the APC was driven by the need to better connect Delta State to the federal government in Abuja. He stated that the move was both "patriotic and strategic," aiming to ensure the state's stronger access to resources and goodwill available at the federal level.
*Implications*
Ganduje's assertion that more governors will join the APC has sparked interest in the party's growing influence. With Oborevwori's defection, the APC now has 22 sitting governors. The party's national leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, have welcomed the new members, emphasizing unity and inclusivity within the party ¹ ².
*Key Points*
- *APC's Growing Influence*: Ganduje expects more defections from opposition parties, solidifying the APC's position.
- *Delta State's New Alignment*: Oborevwori's defection ends PDP's dominance in Delta State, marking a significant shift in the state's politics.
- *Party Unity*: APC leaders emphasize unity and inclusivity, welcoming new members with open arms.
This development has significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape, particularly with the 2027 elections on the horizon. As more politicians consider their options, the APC's momentum could potentially reshape the country's governance structure ¹.
