- Defections to APC: Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
- Tinubu’s Advantage: The defections may give President Bola Tinubu an advantage ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in the South-South and South-East geo-political zones.
- APC’s Growing Strength: The APC controls three of the six states in the Niger Delta and two of the five states in the South-East.
- More Defections Expected: There are indications that more PDP governors and leaders may join the APC, including a possible defection from a South-East governor.
The defections have set the tone for Tinubu’s gradual takeover of the South-South region. Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has declared his support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid, citing the president’s commitment to national development. However, the state Commissioner for Information has distanced the governor from reports of dumping the PDP for the APC, framing the endorsement as a strategic move to foster cooperation and attract federal interventions.
The APC’s growing strength in the region may have significant implications for the 2027 elections. With more PDP governors and leaders expected to join the APC, the party’s prospects in the South-South and South-East may be boosted. The development could also impact the PDP’s ability to retain its strongholds in the region.
