Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the recent mass defection of the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a “movement”, rather than a mere political realignment.

Speaking in Asaba on Monday, Oborevwori emphasised that the decision, taken after wide consultations at all levels, aimed at positioning Delta State to benefit from national political goodwill.

“This is not just a defection; it is a movement,” he said. “We consulted at every level—National Assembly members, state leaders, local governments, wards—and agreed to move together.”

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Oborevwori argued that the support shown to Delta State by President Bola Tinubu must be reciprocated, adding that aligning with the APC would ensure continued development and federal support.

“We cannot be in opposition after nearly 10 years and expect to benefit fully. We must stand with Mr President,” he said, assuring that he would unify the APC in Delta State.

Addressing concerns over alleged factionalisation, Oborevwori declared, “As governor, I take charge. There will be no faction under my leadership.”

Former Governor and 2023 PDP vice-presidential candidate, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, also spoke at the event, citing the need to “connect to the resource and goodwill in Abuja” as the motivation for the move.

Okowa described the decision as “bold, strategic, and patriotic,” stressing that the shift was made in the common interest of Delta State.

President Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, welcomed the defectors, assuring them that they were now “co-owners” of the party.

However, the absence of former Governor James Ibori, a prominent APC figure in Delta State, was notable during the ceremony.