Response to Queen Ada Oshimili
Jude Bruno A.
While Queen Ada Oshimili (as claimed) paints a picture of political rebirth in Delta State, the narrative surrounding Barr Chiedu Ebie and the Delta Unity Group’s (DUG) defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) deserves a more discerning analysis. Far from being a transformative wave, this movement reflects deeper systemic issues in Nigeria’s political culture where party loyalty is fluid, ideological depth is lacking, and defections often serve political survival rather than public interest.
Political Defection or Desperation?
The defection of DUG from the People’s Democratic Party, the PDP to the APC is being framed as a moral stand against poor leadership. However, it appears more as a tactical retreat rather than a principled rebellion. Most DUG members have long been beneficiaries of the same PDP structure they now criticize. Their sudden shift raises valid concerns about opportunism masquerading as reform. If governance was indeed the core motivation, why wait until electoral cycles and appointments shift before raising concerns?
Honestly, political transformation is not about crowd sizes or gatherings but about long term commitment to people-centered policies and systemic reform. The April 12 event, despite the presence of national APC figures, seemed more like a photo-opportunity than a platform for concrete policy discussions.
Chiedu Ebie; Competent, yes, but Transformational?
Barr. Chiedu Ebie’s resumé in public service is without appeal to sentiment, highly commendable and enviously rich. He played a role in the education sector and held key government positions courtesy of Dr Okowa. However, describing him as a “political colossus” is rather premature. His influence, though notable within elite circles, is yet to be tested in terms of mass electoral appeal or grassroots development outcomes.
Ebie’s tenure at the NDDC, though too recent for full evaluation, operates under a federal body often mired in allegations of corruption and under-performance. So far, there is little empirical evidence that the NDDC under his leadership has substantially shifted the commission’s standing trajectory or delivered impactful projects across Delta communities.
DUG; A Group in Transition, Not a Movement
The Delta Unity Group’s strength is touted in numbers, but size does not by default translate to substance. A group of 5,000 members in a single constituency might sound impressive until one considers that voter turnout in Delta often surpasses 500,000 in major elections. Without a strong ideological foundation, DUG risks becoming another migratory political platform where jumping between parties depends on prevailing winds.
Their rhetoric of inclusivity and “people-focused leadership” is admirable but untested. There is no known public record of DUG engaging in extensive community-driven policy development or pushing legislative agendas prior to their defection.
APC’s Gains: Illusion Over Impact, PDP’s Foundation Remains Strong
The recent defection of the Delta Unity Group (DUG) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) may generate headlines and create the illusion of momentum, but for the discerning electorate of Delta State, it changes very little. These moves, while politically noisy, fail to address the fundamental disillusionment many Nigerians feel toward the APC’s leadership defined by economic hardship, insecurity, and unfulfilled promises.
In sharp contrast, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) continues to demonstrate why it remains the dominant and most trusted political force in Delta State. With deep roots in the grassroots, a proven track record of development, and consistent policy direction, the PDP’s presence is not just historical, it is active, vibrant, and people-centered. Whether in education, infrastructure, or youth empowerment, the PDP has laid a legacy that continues to speak for itself.
The APC, by contrast, appears more focused on numbers than values, welcoming defectors who often lack ideological alignment. Many of these individuals rose to prominence under the PDP’s platform, and their sudden switch only underscores the opportunism at play rather than a shift in vision or public confidence. The APC’s growing internal rifts further suggest that its house is far from in order.
Beyond the Drama; The Enduring Reality
While narratives like “The Crumbling Umbrella” attempt to project instability within the PDP, the facts on the ground tell a different story. The PDP remains the most structured, organized, and people-focused political institution in Delta State. These so-called realignments are less about genuine political conviction and more about self-preservation by familiar political actors seeking relevance.
Delta State needs more than political drama. Real progress comes from steady leadership, good governance, and a party that truly listens and delivers. The future isn’t in repeated defections, but in genuine commitment to the people and that is what the PDP continues to offer.
