Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has applauded the defection of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and several other prominent politicians from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a landmark development that has firmly repositioned the political landscape of the South-South.
In an official statement released on Thursday evening in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo noted that the decision taken by the Delta leaders marks a significant realignment of political forces in the region, one he believes will directly influence the outcome of the 2027 presidential election.
He stated that with three of the six states in the South-South now under the control of the APC, the party has established a commanding presence in the region, which he asserts will not only attract increased federal attention but also end longstanding marginalisation of minority states.
“The move by Governor Oborevwori, Dr Okowa, and other former PDP stalwarts into the APC has bolstered our party’s strength in the South-South. This development will ensure that our region secures better opportunities and fair representation moving forward,” Okpebholo said.
Expressing confidence in the future of the APC, Governor Okpebholo predicted that the remaining states of Rivers, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom may soon follow suit, further consolidating the party’s influence.
He affirmed that these defections have effectively secured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027, especially with the APC now wielding influence over a substantial part of the region.
Governor Okpebholo further emphasised Edo State’s commitment to maintaining strategic partnerships with Delta and other neighbouring states to promote regional development and unity.
Political observers say the defections represent one of the most significant political shifts in the South-South since 2015, setting the stage for intense power play ahead of the next general elections.
- The Edo governor concluded by calling on other political actors in the region to prioritise the collective interests of their people over partisan divides, assuring that the APC-led South-South will deliver tangible benefits to its residents.
