A political earthquake has rocked Delta State as Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of former Governor James Ibori, led a massive defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The dramatic shift in the state’s political landscape took place at the Oghara Mini Stadium, where thousands of supporters gathered to witness the major event.
Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the current member of the House of Representatives for the Ethiope Federal Constituency, was the star of the event. She was widely hailed as “The Bulldozer of Delta Politics” and “Amazon of the Niger Delta” for her role in leading the change.
The defection ceremony was not just a political rally but also served as a constituency empowerment programme. Ibori-Suenu distributed a variety of items to her supporters, including sewing machines, power generators, tricycles, motorcycles, hairstyling equipment, and even vehicles. The atmosphere was electric as beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the lawmaker’s generosity and commitment to their welfare.
The high-profile event also marked the beginning of a political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ceremony drew political bigwigs from across Nigeria, further highlighting the significance of the defection. Chief Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy Senate President, was one of the key speakers. He wasted no time in slamming the Delta State government for what he described as the “unaccounted mismanagement” of over ₦900 billion in public funds.
“We will investigate the financial mismanagement in Delta if the APC takes over,” Omo-Agege vowed, generating loud cheers from the crowd.
Hon. John Hallims Agoda, a former House of Representatives member, also spoke at the event. He praised Ibori-Suenu for her courage and dedication to her people. “Erhiatake is a blessing to Ethiope Federal Constituency and Delta State,” he declared. “Her move to the APC is a bold step that will bring greater development to the state.”
Ibori-Suenu Speaks: “I Never Liked the PDP”
In a powerful address, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu explained her decision to join the APC. She revealed that her long stay in the PDP was driven by necessity rather than personal belief.
“I never liked the party from the beginning,” she confessed, “but I stayed to fulfill all righteousness.”
Her honesty and boldness resonated deeply with the crowd. The statement was met with loud applause, and many began chanting the popular song, “As e dey sweet us, e dey pain dem,” which seemed to capture the moment’s energy.
Erhiatake then declared her unwavering loyalty to the APC, pledging to fight for the party’s cause and the progress of her people. She also launched the Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu Grassroots Network, a new initiative aimed at galvanizing support for the APC in the Ethiope Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 elections.
A New Political Dawn for Delta State?
The defection of Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu from the PDP to the APC is seen as a game-changing moment in the politics of Delta State. It marks a significant shift in the balance of power in the state, where the PDP has historically been the dominant force.
With her strong political lineage, having grown up in the shadow of her father, former Governor James Ibori, Erhiatake’s defection could signal the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s political history.
The APC, which has struggled to gain a foothold in the Niger Delta region, is now bolstered by the backing of such a prominent political figure. Many believe this shift could challenge the PDP’s dominance in the region as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
Delta State APC Chairman, Chief Omeni Sobotie, was unable to attend the event but sent a heartfelt apology. Other prominent APC leaders, including Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya, Chief Hope Abijoro, Chief Champion Patege, and Dr. Amos Ighoroje, were in attendance, showing their full support for Ibori-Suenu’s move.
“These leaders have pledged their loyalty to Erhiatake’s new movement,” said one APC source. “This is a clear sign of unity and strength within the party.”
Looking Ahead: APC Eyes 2027 Elections
As the event concluded, the APC’s influence in Delta State seemed to grow stronger. With Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu leading the charge, the party now has a serious contender for political power in the region.
The stakes are high as the 2027 elections approach, and both the APC and PDP will likely engage in a fierce battle for control of the state.
