Agboje Chuks
Palpable tensions are rising for Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as he faces challenges in his bid for a second term. The root of the issue appears to be a power struggle for control of the All Progressives Congress (APC) party structure in the state.
Following a significant move that saw him lead members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC, Governor Oborevwori was expected to dissolve his current cabinet to make room for existing APC members.
However, he has not done so, a decision sources say is directly linked to his struggle to solidify his control over the party and secure his return for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Some observers believe the governor’s actions show his continued loyalty to former Governor Senator Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa. The theory is that Oborevwori is helping to keep Okowa politically relevant, particularly as Okowa prepares for his own 2027 senatorial ambitions.
Meanwhile, a competing narrative suggests that Senator Omo Agege is already mobilizing his own political machinery to challenge for the governorship in 2027, which could prevent Governor Oborevwori from getting an automatic ticket.
There are also reports that the defection of Oborevwori and other PDP leaders to the APC was a misstep and was not supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was allegedly not informed of the decision.
Adding to the complex political landscape, anonymous sources indicate that former Governor Okowa is actively preparing to contest the 2027 Delta North Senatorial seat, setting up a potential showdown with the current senator, Ned Nwoko, who is also pushing for the creation of Anioma State.
