The political defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has sparked growing concerns about the stability of opposition parties across several Nigerian states, particularly Osun, Plateau, Anambra, Abia, and Enugu.
Even before Oborevwori’s departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), hints of potential defections had been noticeable through the actions and public statements of several opposition governors. Findings by Sunday Vanguard reveal mounting unease among party loyalists despite official denials from party leaders claiming defections are not imminent.
The growing wave of defections from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified worries, with party dynamics across states becoming increasingly fragile.
Enugu: Stronghold at Risk
Historically a PDP stronghold, Enugu State now faces speculation that Governor Peter Mbah might switch to the APC. Known for his cordial relationship with President Bola Tinubu, Mbah has reportedly been courted persistently by the presidency. While the APC in Enugu often praises his developmental strides, state party chairman Ugo Agballa opposes any move to accept Mbah into the party. Internal PDP opposition remains strong, and it remains unclear whether the governor will yield to pressures.
Anambra: Defection Unlikely
In Anambra State, despite Governor Charles Soludo’s friendly ties with President Tinubu, there is little fear of defection. Elected under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Soludo has consistently reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, dismissing the APC as lacking a meaningful presence in Anambra. “APC doesn’t even have a councillor here,” Soludo emphasized, downplaying the possibility of any political realignment.
APGA leaders and stakeholders remain confident that Soludo, a highly principled leader, will stay rooted in his party’s ideology.
Abia: Focused on Governance
The situation in Abia State appears unaffected by Delta’s political shifts. Governor Alex Otti, who belongs to the Labour Party (LP), shows no interest in crossing over to another party. According to Chief Olugh Kalu, a PDP leader, “Delta is not Abia.” Residents are more concerned about the performance of Otti’s administration rather than party affiliations. Though internal leadership struggles persist within LP, defections in other states seem to have little impact on Abia’s political landscape.
Osun: Growing Concerns
In Osun State, rumours had long circulated that Governor Ademola Adeleke might defect from the PDP to the APC. These concerns intensified after the resignation of Mr. Oluwole Oke, a prominent lawmaker from the Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency. Though Oke’s next political move remains unclear, speculation that he might join the APC has heightened fears that Adeleke could also jump ship. However, PDP leaders such as Diran Odeyemi have dismissed the speculations as baseless, assuring the party faithful that Adeleke remains firmly in the PDP.
