Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has stated that All Progressives Congress (APC) members in Delta State are now loyal to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. This announcement follows the defection of Oborevwori and other prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figures to the APC on April 23, 2025. During a meeting on Sunday, Keyamo affirmed that the APC structure in Delta is now under the governor’s complete control.

Keyamo emphasized the unity within the Delta APC, identifying key leaders such as the three senators and the sole member of the House of Representatives as the party’s gatekeepers. He asserted that any decisions regarding the APC in Delta would be made in consultation with these leaders and the state chairman, dismissing any alternative claims as mere jests. Keyamo assured Oborevwori of the party’s full support, welcoming him unconditionally and relying on him for direction.

Describing Oborevwori’s defection as beneficial to the APC, President Bola Tinubu, and the people of Delta State, Keyamo highlighted the alignment with the ruling party at the center. He expressed confidence that this synergy would yield incredible results, with the party wholeheartedly surrendering to Oborevwori’s leadership and seeking his guidance at all times. According to Keyamo, the APC in Delta is now unified under Oborevwori’s leadership.

Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the APC, likened the party to Jehovah’s Witnesses, known for their evangelistic efforts. He noted that one of the APC’s policies is to establish a functional and efficient party structure at all levels of governance.

Former PDP vice presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa has defended the decision to join the APC with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, stating that it was made in the best interest of Delta State and its people. Okowa explained that despite Oborevwori’s efforts, there was a need to connect with Abuja for goodwill and resources. Having served as an opposition governor for eight years, Okowa understood the challenges and believed that the move was strategic and well-intentioned.

Okowa emphasized that the decision was not personal but driven by the need for Delta State to access resources and support from the federal government. He recalled his own experience as an opposition governor and the difficulties he faced, stressing the importance of connecting to the greater source of power and resources in Abuja.

The official welcoming ceremony, held in Asaba, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and other state governors, marking the formal inclusion of Okowa and Oborevwori into the APC.