APC Vs PDP Defections Saga: ‘Okowa’s, Oborevwori’s Backdoor Move To Reclaim Delta PDP’s Structure Revealed’

•as ex-Party’s Chair, Esiso is position to secure PDP’s structure

Delta State’s political atmosphere is erupting in chaos as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and other former PDP leaders who defected to the APC are reportedly caught in a web of uncertainty and power struggles.

Dependable sources revealed that despite publicly declaring their defection to the APC, many former PDP stalwarts have reportedly refused to register as APC members — a move raising eyebrows and fueling speculation about their true intentions.

Apparently faced by the political situation, former Governor Okowa, in a clandestine move, has reportedly tasked his trusted protége, and former chairman of the PDP in the state, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso, with an aggressive mission: to retake the PDP’s grassroots structures across all 25 local government areas and tighten his grip on the state’s political future.

Sources reveal that despite publicly jumping ship to the APC, many of these defectors are dragging their feet on registering as official APC members. This reluctance is raising red flags, fueling fears that they may be playing a double game or waiting to pivot again. Inside sources suggest that these internal tensions are part of a calculated power play to keep control and influence within reach.

In a strategic twist, Okowa appears to be positioning Esiso as the APC’s candidate for Delta Central’s senate seat in 2027 — a Senatorial District long known as a battleground. Securing the PDP’s structure here is seen as critical to his plans to dominate the upcoming elections.

An insider from Abraka, close to Esiso, confirmed that the campaign to reclaim PDP’s grassroots base is already underway:

“Okowa’s directives are clear — we must restore our influence across the state. Grassroots control is the key to victory.

“Yes, Okowa has instructed Esiso to take back control of PDP structures statewide. We can’t leave things to chance. We’re reactivating our grassroots network as we speak.”, the source who pleaded anonymity disclosed.

Initially, the plan was to hand the PDP structure to Elder Emma Ogidi, but mounting political tensions and Ogidi’s age have forced a reevaluation. With Ibori loyalists lurking and Omo-Agege’s formidable influence over APC structures, the stakes are higher than ever.

According to the source, “With Ibori’s loyalists lurking and yet to make their intentions clear, leaving the party structure in limbo is too risky. We’re moving quickly to stabilise our base.”

He added that former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege still holds significant sway over APC ward and LGA structures, making it difficult for new defectors to gain a foothold.

“Omo-Agege won’t fold easily. Until there’s clarity on power-sharing within the APC, we’re keeping our options open.”

Meanwhile, within the APC, discontent is brewing. Hon. Hilary Fada Ibude, Chairman of APC in Ika South, disclosed startling statistics: over 99% of those who defected from PDP have yet to register as APC members weeks after their dramatic switch.

“They paraded as APC members but most have yet to take the leap and get registered,” he said. “Without proper registration, they’re not recognized as legitimate members. We’re serious about building a committed team — no freebies, no quick fixes.”

“They made a big show of joining us, but only 0.5% have actually registered. Apart from the Delta Unity Group (DUG), most are still sitting on the fence,” he told journalists in Agbor..

“If you’re not holding an APC membership card, you’re not part of this party. Registration is open to all, but seriousness must be proven — some may even need to surrender their former party ID cards.”

He stressed that while APC welcomes new members, no special treatment will be given:

“There are no guaranteed positions for newcomers. What we value is commitment. Only those ready to work will earn a place at the table.”

Ibude warned that the party will not tolerate half-hearted participation and that loyalty and grassroots mobilization will determine who rises to the top as 2027 approaches.

As the game of political chess heats up, Delta’s future hinges on loyalty, structure, and grassroots influence. Okowa’s strategic moves could reshape the state’s political landscape if it scales through — but the question remains: who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes battle for Delta’s soul?