The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed confidence that more governors from opposition parties will soon defect to the ruling party.
Ganduje made the declaration on Monday, April 28, during a ceremony in Asaba, Delta State, held to officially welcome Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, into the APC.
The defection of the two leaders marks a historic political shift in Delta State, ending the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) dominance in the state after nearly 26 years. Their move also transferred the state’s political structure to the APC.
Speaking at the event, Ganduje commended APC governors across the country for their support and revealed that Oborevwori’s defection raises the number of APC-controlled states to 22.
“I must thank our 21 executive governors. Now, with this, we have the 22nd governor. Let me tell you, keep your ears and eyes open — more governors will soon join us,” Ganduje said as he handed the APC flag to Oborevwori.
Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa also addressed the gathering, offering insight into the reasons for their defection.
He said the decision was made in the interest of Delta State’s long-term development and to align more closely with the federal government.
“When the news broke that we had decided to switch paths, many wondered why. But in every people’s history, there comes a time to make a strategic move for the common good.
It wasn’t about me or the governor, but about ensuring Delta State has stronger access to the resources and goodwill available at the federal level,” Okowa said.
He described the defection as both “patriotic and strategic,” adding that the state lost several opportunities during his administration due to its opposition stance to the federal government.
The ceremony was attended by several top APC leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who traveled to Asaba for the high-profile event.
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