Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has announced plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This decision, according to his Director of Communications, Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, follows extensive consultations with political stakeholders in the region.
Speaking on AriseTV, Okolugbo attributed Senator Nwoko’s move to dissatisfaction with the internal conflicts and inefficiencies within the PDP. She highlighted how factional issues in the party have impeded progress on key developmental projects in Delta North.
“Senator Nwoko’s commitment to Delta North’s development has been hindered by factionalisation within the PDP. Projects like the Okpai IPP electricity initiative and the Ogwashi-Uku dam have suffered due to the party’s disorganisation,” she explained.
Additionally, Nwoko has been in conflict with Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the PDP leadership in the state has reportedly failed to mediate the disagreements effectively.
Senator Nwoko’s alignment with the APC, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is seen as a strategic step to enhance collaboration with the federal government for the benefit of Delta North.
Dr. Michael Nwoko, Chief of Staff to the senator, hinted at the move, saying, “Fingers crossed; it will happen.” Reports suggest that stakeholders consulted by the senator have largely supported the decision, citing the potential for accelerated development in the district.
Analysts predict that Senator Nwoko’s defection could weaken the PDP’s hold in Delta State while bolstering the APC’s influence in the region. Stakeholders view the move as a significant shift in Delta politics, potentially altering the balance of power.
Meanwhile, in the Ethiope Federal Constituency, the PDP leadership has demanded the declaration of Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu’s seat in the House of Representatives as vacant, following her recent defection to the APC.
These developments underscore the ongoing realignments within Delta State’s political landscape as the APC continues to attract prominent figures from rival parties.
