Asaba: President Bola Tinubu has described the large-scale defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the entire Delta Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a political tsunami. The president made these remarks in Asaba, the capital of Delta, during a formal ceremony organized to welcome Governor Oborevwori and other PDP stalwarts to the APC.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the president, represented by Vice-President Kassim Shettima, stated that the movement is unprecedented in the history of Nigeria’s political landscape. He emphasized that the defection of the governor, members of the National Assembly, the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly, cabinet members, local government council chairmen, and numerous councillors to APC is unparalleled.

Tinubu remarked on the significance of the event, noting that it vindicates the APC from its critics. He highlighted the day as historic, marking a celebration of the enduring promises of the APC, and paid tribute to the leadership and foresight of those who have joined the party.

The president extended special recognition to former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, acknowledging the relationship between him and Governor Oborevwori. Tinubu welcomed the new members not as defectors but as partners in building a better Nigeria, emphasizing inclusivity within the APC.

APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, praised Governor Oborevwori and others for their decision to join the ruling party. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his leadership, which he believes has encouraged other parties to align with the APC.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo commended the decision, stating that it aligns Delta’s development with the central government. He recognized Oborevwori’s progressive work in infrastructure development and assured him of support from fellow APC governors.

Former Governor Okowa reiterated that the move to the APC was a collective decision aimed at benefiting from the central government’s gains. He stated that Delta’s time in the PDP had concluded, and the shift to the APC would foster progress.

Governor Oborevwori, in his acceptance speech, clarified that the change was a movement rather than a defection. He pledged to lead the party in Delta, emphasizing the collective decision from all political levels to join the APC.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event was attended by notable APC figures, including the National Chairman, 16 APC governors, and other dignitaries.