Few hours after DTHA members defected all Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, House of Representatives members have officially moved to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
This is coming barely hours after all PDP DTHA members moved to APC.
Their defection was made public by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, during plenary on Tuesday.
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, along with twenty-one other former members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), elected into the Assembly has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), following a major realignment of political stakeholders across the state.
The defection of the twenty-two lawmakers has effectively transformed the Delta State House of Assembly into a one-party legislature, as the remaining seven members were originally elected on the ticket of the APC.
Announcing the development on Tuesday during the resumption of plenary after the Easter break, the Speaker stated that the decision was the result of extensive consultations with their constituents and political leaders throughout the state.
He emphasized that the move aligned with Section 109 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
While expressing appreciation to members for their contributions so far, Guwor urged the House to ensure the completion of all pending bills as the second legislative session nears its end.
He noted that the political shift towards the APC was in response to the realignment of stakeholders and the desire to align with the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
“The mass defection of members of the Peoples Democratic Party, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to the All Progressives Congress was made in the overall interest of Deltans and the state,” the Speaker said.
He explained that the decision followed extensive consultations held on April 23 and which cumulated on the official reception on April 28, 2025, at the Government House and the Cenotaph, respectively.
He said: “We are fully committed to partnering with the Federal Government to deliver greater development to Deltans.
“On behalf of the House, I commend the courage and visionary leadership of our Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in making this strategic and timely decision.
“As a legislative body, we stand with His Excellency in this endeavour. This renewed partnership between the state and Federal Government must be supported and allowed to flourish, so that we can begin to enjoy its benefits in the shortest possible time.”
He informed the House that he had received twenty-two letters (including his own) notifying of the change of party affiliation from the PDP to the APC.
The defection, he said, was driven by instability within the PDP’s national leadership and factional divisions within the South-South Zonal Executive Committee, leading to internal conflicts and disunity within the party.
Citing Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Speaker affirmed the constitutional basis for the defection.
“With this action, the Delta State House of Assembly is now composed entirely of members from the All Progressives Congress. We thank our constituents for endorsing this progressive course of action”.
A motion to adopt the letters of party change was moved by the Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by Hon. Ferguson Onwo, who represents Isoko South II.
Speaking to journalists after the plenary, the Majority Leader, Hon Emeka Nwaobi reiterated that the defection was prompted by the crisis within the PDP.
“Our decision was based on the instability at the national level and the factionalization at the South-South level. Consequently, we chose to move to the ruling All Progressives Congress, in accordance with Section 109 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended,” he said.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has emphasized that strengthening internal security mechanisms are pivotal to fostering sustainable economic growth.
Governor Oborevwori made this known while receiving participants of Senior Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, led by the Director of Coordination, Brigadier General Al-Hassan Grema, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba on Monday.
Governor Oborevwori noted that peace and safety attract investment and promote development across sectors, adding that his administration remains committed to creating a secure and business-friendly environment.
Maintaining that security was not only a social necessity but also an economic driver, he commended Brig. Gen. Grema for his longstanding dedication to national peace and development, particularly recalling his outstanding service as a former Sector Commander in the state.
Speaking on the theme of the participants’ study tour, “Harnessing Grassroots Intelligence for Enhanced Internal Security”, the governor said; “it is highly relevant to Nigeria’s current security discourse.
“If well researched, it will offer practical solutions to emerging security challenges that have negatively impacted our GDP, in addition to the tragic loss of lives”.
Highlighting his administration’s strategic approach, Governor Oborevwori said his administration placed security and social stability at the forefront in line with his MORE Agenda.
He said: “Without prioritizing security, inclusive development would remain a mirage. The state recognizes the importance of intelligence gathering in security management and has established several offices dedicated to coordinating this effort.”
He added that Delta State has maintained strong cooperation with the federal government by providing logistical support to various security agencies including the Police, Army, Navy, and Air Force.
“You served here as a Sector Commander, so you know that we take security very seriously. Since we came into office, there have been no attacks on oil installations thanks to our excellent relationships with host communities, stakeholders, and national leaders,” he stated.
The governor emphasized that the state’s regular security council meetings, involving heads of security agencies, underscore its proactive approach in addressing threats.
He expressed confidence that the visiting officers’ interactions with traditional rulers and field studies would provide useful insights and support the objectives of their research.
“I urge you to take full advantage of this tour. We are also open to your recommendations at the end of your visit,” the governor added.
Earlier, Brig. Gen. Grema said it was an honor to return to Delta State, which he considers home, as part of the College’s environmental study tour.
He noted that Senior Course 47 has dispatched eight teams to different states across the federation to conduct field research.
He said: “The Armed Forces Command and Staff College is a tri-service institution that trains operational-level military officers to the highest professional standards.
“It also develops their understanding to prepare them for higher staff and command roles.”
He revealed that the College includes students from sister African countries, with participants from Tanzania and Mali joining the Delta State tour.
“We also have exchange programs with colleges in Ghana and South Africa and train officers from paramilitary agencies including the Immigration Service, Police, and the State Security Service.”
Brig. Gen. Grema expressed confidence that Delta State was the right location for the tour, praising Governor Oborevwori’s deep-rooted connection to the grassroots.
“If there’s anyone I know to be close to the grassroots, it is His Excellency. The students have come to the right place for first-hand insights into grassroots operations,” he said.
According to him, the 57-member team will gather data on Delta State’s security initiatives, particularly at the grassroots level, as part of their broader objective to address national security concerns.
“If you have worked in Delta State, even if you leave, the state doesn’t leave you,” Grema concluded.
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Sunday described the late Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (rtd.) as an extraordinary patriot and statesman whose contributions to nation-building remained worthy of emulation.
Governor Oborevwori paid tributes to the late Isoko leader during a condolence visit to the wife of the deceased, Senator Stella Omu, and the Omu family at their residence in Asaba.
According to the Governor, General Omu, who died on Tuesday, April 29, was a man of immense influence whose contributions to the growth and development of the nation were unparalleled.
He noted that the Isoko nation had lost one of its most cherished leaders and patriots and urged them to take solace in the General’s legendary contributions to the socio-economic and political development of Nigeria.
He said: “I am here to pay my condolences to our dear mummy, Senator Stella Omu, and the Omu family, over the demise of our leader, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (rtd).
“He passed on last Tuesday. It was very sad and shocking news to me because it was unexpected.
“He lived a truly remarkable life. He served as the Military Governor of the defunct South Eastern Region from 1975 to 1978.
“He was a great leader of the Isoko nation. He served both the country and the Isoko people with dedication, and we will dearly miss him. My heartfelt condolences go to the entire family and the Isoko nation.”
Governor Oborevwori urged the family to take solace in the legacy and selfless service of their late patriarch.
“To the family, we cannot question God. There is a time and a season for everything—a time to be born and a time to die. What matters most is that he lived a life of purpose and impact, one that will always be remembered.
“I encourage the family to take heart, knowing that their late father lived a meaningful and impactful life and contributed immensely to the development of our nation. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”
The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Chief Adviser, Senator Ighoyota Amori; the Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo; the Member Representing Isoko South Constituency II, Hon. Ferguson Onwo; the Member Representing Isoko South Constituency I, Hon. Bino Obowomano; the Member Representing Isoko North, Hon. Bernard Odior and the Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Chief Emamusi Obiodeh, among others.
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has assured that the Ughelli-Asaba road dualisation project would be completed soon.
Oborevwori gave the assurance on Saturday during the inspection of the ongoing work on Sector C2 of the Ughelli–Asaba Expressway.
The governor also inspected the reconstruction of the Olomoro–Igbide Road in Isoko South Local Government.
Oborevwori claimed that the people of the state were satisfied with the pace and quality of development projects being implemented by his administration.
He noted that the positive feedback from the residents was a clear testament to his government’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of work being carried out on the Igbide-Olomoro and Ughelli-Asaba road dualisation.
“The MORE Agenda of my administration’s development blueprint is already yielding tangible results, it is addressing the needs and aspirations of the people.
“I am impressed with the speed and quality of work being delivered. I visited here in March, and the contractors assured me that Sector C1 would be completed by May.
“From what I am seeing, they are on track. This project will soon be completed.
“We have received a lot of commendations from commuters using this road. It now takes less than two hours to travel from Asaba to Ughelli.
“This 143-kilometre road is a major achievement, and it is clear that people are benefiting from the project,” he said.
The governor said that the happiness of the people was the ultimate measure of success in governance.
Oborevwori said that they were elected to serve and deliver meaningful development, adding that his administration was happy providing good leadership for the people.
“When the people are satisfied, we are happy. From roads to healthcare and education, our projects are making a real difference in people’s lives and that is what governance is all about,” he said.
The governor reassured that his administration would not relent until every part of the state felt the impact of his government.
He said that numerous projects had been completed across the state in preparation for his administration’s second anniversary.
Oborevwori re-emphasised his administration’s commitment to prompt payment of contractors and urged them to accelerate their work.
The Delta Police Command on Saturday confirmed the killing of a policeman along the East-West Road in the Patani area of the state by a Nigeria Customs officer.
TheNewsGuru reports that the incident allegedly occurred at about 11:58 pm on Friday, 2nd May 2025.
According to an eyewitness, a counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who first reported the incident via X platform on Saturday morning, a Toyota RAV4 was seen veering off the road into a ditch near a Customs checkpoint.
Quoting sources, Makama noted that a police officer who witnessed the incident rushed to the scene and discovered that the driver of the vehicle, believed to be a police officer based on his attire, had been fatally shot.
While the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) disclosed that it was “handling the situation”, there is no official reaction from the Service.
The spokesperson of the Customs Federal Operating Unit (FOU) Zone C, simply identified as ASC Rose, requested more time to gather credible information concerning the incident.
However, in reaction to the development, the spokesperson of the Delta Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed that the customs officer is currently in custody.
Edafe explained, “I do not have details yet, but what I do know is that the customs were at their checkpoint while the policeman was driving a vehicle.
“I do not know what led to the shooting for now, but what is confirmed is that they shot at the vehicle.
“The policeman driving the vehicle died. The vehicle fell into a ditch. The customs officer is in custody.”
…inspects Trans-Warri Bridges, Road, To Build Two Jetties
In a decisive move to fast-track infrastructural development and fulfill a promise to riverine communities, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced early 2027 as the definitive completion date for the Ayakoromo Bridge project.
The Governor noted that the critical project had suffered years of uncertainty and delays, but stressed that he was committed to ensuring its completion as scheduled.
He made this declaration during an inspection visit to the site of the Ayakoromo Bridge across the Forcados River, along with the 3km approach road at Egbo-Ide in Ughelli-South and Burutu local government areas.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of the 612-metre long bridge comprising 18 spans with 24 metres between each span to the communities of Egbo-Ide and Ayakoromo.
He added that although the contract was awarded before his administration, he ensured the contractor was remobilized to the site.
“This project is very dear to me and the people. The contractor has set 2027 as the completion date, but we would be pleased if it is finished early 2027,” he said.
“I am confident the contractor will deliver as promised, but I have also directed them to accelerate the pace of work. This bridge is crucial for connecting surrounding villages.
“As you can see, the people are excited even though they were not informed of my visit. This shows how important the bridge is to the two communities and others in the area.”
Earlier, the Governor visited the Trans-Warri Road and Bridges Project in Warri South Local Government Area.
He remarked that the project would enhance connectivity and create economic opportunities for both urban and rural dwellers.
“This project is vital to our people because it connects us with those in rural areas and expands opportunities.
“You saw how happy the people were as we arrived; elders and other villagers came out joyfully. This project is particularly important to the Itsekiri nation, which is why I am determined to see it through to completion.
“I was here in September 2024, and I am back again for inspection. I believe that by early next year, this project will be inaugurated, as it has already been delayed for nearly 19 years.
“We will no longer tolerate delays beyond project timelines. Under our MORE Agenda, we have committed to doing more for Deltans, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori announced the construction of two jetties in the area and explained that, due to the rainy season, the construction company is allowing the newly sand-filled areas to settle for road stability.
He, however, urged the firm to accelerate work to ensure the project is completed within his first term in office.
The Delta State Government on Thursday distributed relief materials to victims of the 2024 flood disaster in various parts of the state.
At a ceremony in Asaba, Co-chairman of the State Flood Management Committee, Mr Terry Etacherure, presented the materials to representatives from four affected Local Government Areas.
Etacherure, who also serves as Commissioner, Bureau for Special Duties, said the items were for victims in Oshimili South, Aniocha South, Burutu, and Isoko South.
Items distributed to the council representatives included bags of rice, beans, detergents, vegetable oil, palm oil, salt, and cartons of tinned tomatoes, among others.
He noted that the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) had earlier provided relief materials to communities devastated by the 2024 flood.
Etacherure said the gesture reflects Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s firm commitment to the welfare of all residents in the state.
He urged the local government representatives to ensure the materials reach the most vulnerable in their communities.
“You should ensure that people who have not yet received assistance are also given a share,” he added.
Mr Tony Ebube, Secretary to Aniocha South Local Government Council, thanked the state for its support to flood victims.
He said the relief materials would help ease the suffering caused by the disaster.
“We assure you that the items will reach the intended beneficiaries.
“This initiative highlights Governor Oborevwori’s strong dedication to the people’s welfare and progress,” Ebube said.
Mr Gregory Ejehwomu, Permanent Secretary of the Bureau for Special Duties, and Mr Karo Ovemeso, SEMA Director, attended the event.
..carpets Ezeagwu, Labour Party
The Delta State Government has described Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a well-considered and patriotic decision aimed at fostering stronger federal collaboration and accelerating development across the state.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, made this known in response to comments by the Labour Party’s South-South Vice Chairman, Mr. Tony Ezeagwu, concerning the Governor’s official movement to the APC.
The Governor’s spokesman dismissed Ezeagwu’s remarks as misleading and an attempt to misrepresent a strategic realignment rooted in development priorities rather than partisan considerations.
He said the defection marks a significant political realignment in Delta, potentially reshaping the 2027 electoral landscape and boosting the state’s access to federal partnerships.
He remarked that the move positions Delta to benefit more from national programs and infrastructure investments, especially at a time of tightened economic priorities.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Delta State Government has been drawn to a recent statement issued by the Labour Party’s South-South Vice Chairman, Mr. Tony Ezeagwu, regarding Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s official defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
While we respect the right of all political parties to participate in democratic discourse, it is important to correct the misrepresentations and set the record straight.
Governor Oborevwori’s decision to align with the APC is a strategic and thoughtful move driven by a singular objective: to fast-track Delta State’s development through enhanced collaboration with the federal government.
This decision is not about political survival or personal ambition it is about putting Delta first.
At this critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, alignment with the center offers states a rare opportunity to attract greater federal support, foster inclusive governance, and unlock critical infrastructure and economic investments.
As a seasoned legislator and grassroots politician, Governor Oborevwori understands that Delta State cannot afford to remain on the periphery of national politics. His defection reflects a bold and necessary step to reposition the state for lasting progress.
Contrary to the Labour Party’s claims, the defection ceremony was neither wasteful nor selfish. It was a dignified political gathering, attended by stakeholders across party lines, embodying the Governor’s enduring commitment to unity, inclusiveness, and participatory governance.
Governor Oborevwori’s enduring popularity stems from his credible track record and the ongoing delivery of the MORE Agenda, which has brought visible progress to all parts of the state.
Under his leadership, Delta has experienced notable growth in infrastructure, youth empowerment, peace-building, and social development initiatives that transcend partisan boundaries.
Rather than disparage a decision anchored in the best interest of the state, the Labour Party should focus on articulating alternative policies and solutions, if it hopes to be taken seriously as a credible opposition force.
Governor Oborevwori remains the Governor of all Deltans, regardless of political affiliation, and he will continue to work tirelessly to unify the state, deepen democratic values, and drive inclusive growth.”
While urging Labour Party to remove the log in its eyes before the thinking of removing the speck from another person’s eyes, he reminded Tony Ezeagwu that the Labour Party is enmeshed in crisis.
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborovwori has described workers as the backbone of government’s wheel of progress.
He stated this on Thursday in Asaba during the 2025 Workers’ Day (May Day) celebration.
The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, noted that, Workers’ Day is not just a celebration, asserting that, “It is a moment to reflect on shared journey and renewal of commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.”
Governor Oborevwori noted that, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” is apt, as it serves as a powerful call to action and rallying point for all.
He said , “even in the face of adversity, we must reclaim our rights, amplify our voices and are engage fully in the civic processes that govern our lives.”
Governor Oborevwori urged workers to remain steadfast in their commitment to excellence and continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of their dreams.
“I join all Deltans and indeed Nigerians with immense pride and gratitude to celebrate our hardworking men and women on this Workers’ Day 2025.
“You, the workers of Delta State, civil servants, teachers, healthcare professionals, artisans, farmers and private sector employees, are the backbone of our progress; I salute you all.
“My administration will never take your sacrifices for granted and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.
“Workers’ Day is not just a celebration; it is a moment to reflect on our shared journey and renewal of our commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.
“Let me acknowledge the challenges we face; gobal economic pressures, rising costs of living and unemployment affect us all but I assure you that my administration is working tirelessly to cushion these impacts.
“Since assuming office, my administration has placed workers at the heart of our M.O.R.E. Agenda and we have taken steps to uplift the welfare of workers and ensure you thrive in an environment of dignity and opportunity.
“We have ensured prompt payment of salaries and pension, cleared pension backlogs and introduced training programmes to boost your skills.
“We have upgraded workplaces, revitalized healthcare centres and renovated schools to support your work.
“Our entrepreneurship initiatives have empowered artisans and small business owners, creating jobs and boosting incomes.
“Despite economic challenges, we are investing in infrastructure, roads, bridges and markets to reduce transportation costs and boost trade.
“We are supporting agriculture to enhance food security to stabilize prices.
“These efforts are designed to make life better for every worker and their families.
“We have also introduced a whistle-blower policy with a dedicated phone line; this is a bold step to promote transparency and accountability in governance.
“This policy protects workers who expose wrongdoing, ensuring that your voices are heard and that public resources are used to serve the common good.
“This is governance that works for you, rooted in fairness and accountability.
“On this day of reflection and celebration, let us also remember those who have sacrificed for the dignity of labour. Let their struggles inspire us to strive for fairness, justice and equity in our workplaces.
“As we move forward, I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence.
“Let us continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of our dreams as my administration will never take your sacrifices for granted and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.
“Our doors remain open for dialogue, as we believe that collaboration with workers’ unions is the path to lasting progress.
“Let us march on, stronger together, towards a brighter and more prosperous future,” the governor stated
Earlier in a joint address, the Delta State Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, and Comrade Martins Bolum, Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, called on workers to come together and unite as community to reclaim their civic space inspite of the economic hardship faced by workers.
The chairmen noted that, these challenges have tested the resilience and resolve of workers.
The event featured colourful match pass parade by different trade unions.
