THE UPCOMING days will be intriguing in Delta State politics, particularly with the defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
While I’ve generally been critical of political defections, I believe this move might be strategic for the governor, allowing him to navigate the complex political landscape of Delta State that has been birthed by some ambitious elements who think they must have their way.
Party defection in Nigeria’s political landscape is a recurring issue, driven by personal ambitions and sometimes perceived lack of opportunities within parties.
Ganduje’s claim that Senator Omo-Agege is the APC leader in Delta State is misguided. With the massive defection of PDP members to APC, the governor is now the de facto leader of the party in the state. Numbers dictate leadership, and the governor’s influence is undeniable.
The defections from PDP to APC in Delta State have been telling. Those who left PDP earlier were jubilant, thinking they’d gain an upper hand over Governor Oborevwori. Some even visited the President and praised him for a performance that is not seen, likely expecting favours. The APC suddenly had all Delta State Senators on board, envisioning a knockout blow against the governor in 2027.
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However, they’ve forgotten that APC’s doors are open to all, regardless of past affiliations or controversies. In APC, past sins are often washed away, and previous transgressions become irrelevant. The party’s mantra seems to be: “Join APC, and your sins shall be forgiven.”
Today, the governor is the number one APC person in the state. No one can claim to be more APC than him.
Defecting from one party to another often raises questions about ideological consistency. The political space can be borderless, with little distinction between parties. It’s akin to moving a patient from one hospital to another – their health issues remain, regardless of the hospital.
Frequent defections undermine party discipline, weaken the party system, and can lead to instability. The governor is only fighting for his second term, just like President Tinubu is also trying to get a second term without justification.
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Governor Oborevwori’s defection is not only important for him, it is also important for his political godfather, former Governor Arthur Okowa.
For the former governor, joining APC is essential for his political survival and advancement. Okowa will definitely need APC and Tinubu to assist unlading the load of corruption accusations levelled against him by EFCC.
Delta State has historically been a one-party state, similar to Lagos, with PDP dominating since 1999. The party’s success wasn’t due to performance, but rather its ability to accommodate diverse interests and allow various groups to access state resources.
This inclusive approach enabled PDP to maintain a strong presence in every town, village, and hamlet. However, it appears that this structure has now largely transitioned to APC, making them the majority party in Delta State.
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If democracy is indeed a game of numbers, then Governor Oborevwori’s defection could make him a key leader in the APC.
The APC has reshaped the landscape of Nigerian democracy. The politics of “turn-by-turn” (Emi lo kan) has taken hold, where power is exercised without emphasis on accountability, transparency, or good governance. The focus is on occupying power when it’s your turn, regardless of past actions or competence.
This shift may redefine the balance of power in Delta State politics. With the former PDP structure now in APC, the Governor’s influence could potentially surpass that of other prominent APC figures, including senators.
Ganduje’s claim that Senator Omo-Agege is the APC leader in Delta State is misguided. With the massive defection of PDP members to APC, the governor is now the de facto leader of the party in the state. Numbers dictate leadership, and the governor’s influence is undeniable.
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If a president with questionable performance is considered for a second term, then a governor who has made significant progress in Delta State surely deserves consideration for another term.
Senator Nwoko’s caution to the governor about bringing PDP characteristics to APC is ironic, given his recent transition from PDP to APC. It’s hard to discern significant differences between the two parties, especially when it comes to leadership and membership behaviour. Ultimately, party affiliations seem to matter less than the actions and character of individual leaders. Whether in APC or PDP, the behaviour of leaders and members often raises similar concerns.
The APC has reshaped the landscape of Nigerian democracy. The politics of “turn-by-turn” (Emi lo kan) has taken hold, where power is exercised without emphasis on accountability, transparency, or good governance. The focus is on occupying power when it’s your turn, regardless of past actions or competence.
This system prioritizes access to power over performance or integrity. When it’s your turn, you’re given the space to govern, and others are expected to hold their peace. This approach raises questions about the future of governance in Nigeria. Since 1999, Delta State has seen bad days, but worse days now loom.
