Political opposition parties, particularly the People’s Democratic Party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, and the Labour Party, are facing significant losses as several key figures have left their respective platforms to join the governing All Progressives Congress.
Worried about the surge in defectors joining the APC, the PDP, NNPP, along with the Coalition of United Political Parties, have charged that the APC-controlled federal government is misusing state assets to pressure their members and other political figures to switch loyalty towards the governing party.
In response, the APC welcomed the defectors, rejected the assertions made by the PDP and NNPP as baseless, stating that politicians are voluntarily joining the party due to the notable accomplishments of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration.
Remember that according to an exclusive report by The PUNCH on February 18, more than 300 members left the PDP for the APC from February 2024 to February 2025. They cited internal disputes within the party at both state and national levels as the primary cause of their defection.
Similarly, both the NNPP and the Labour Party have faced significant numbers of defectors joining the APC, with numerous members citing internal conflicts and associated problems as the primary factors for leaving.
On Wednesday, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, alongside his predecessor and PDP’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, and all members of their party in the state, formally joined the All Progressives Congress.
The news was announced in Asaba by Senator James Manager after a lengthy meeting that extended for more than six hours at the Government House.
The manager said, “All PDP members in the state, such as the governor, ex-Governor Okowa, the Speaker, the state party leader, along with every local government chairman and others, have decided to transition to the APC.”
“We can’t keep being on a sinking boat,” he stated.
The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Aniagwu Charles, formally confirmed the governor’s defection, along with the unified decision of Delta PDP leaders and stakeholders to join the APC.
“There is a need for us to adjust the drinking pattern. And in adjusting that drinking pattern, we needed to make a decision that would further help to cement the development in our state, to build the court of law that has existed in our state, to further advance the cause of security and the welfare of our people, and, to a large extent, ensure that development in Delta is not truncated,” Aniagwu stated.
He added, “In taking that decision, we concluded that leaving the PDP was very necessary for us to be able to collaborate and build a state that every Deltan will be proud of. We believe that what is happening, and the state of the PDP, is akin to that palm wine whose taste has changed — and there was a need for us to change the drinking party.”
Charles stated that the decision was reached unanimously by party leaders and stakeholders, indicating that an official public announcement would be made soon.
“By the grace of God, on Monday next week, we will be able to make a very big statement confirming that we are moving into the APC,” he said.
Also, the Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District, Kawu Sumaila, on Wednesday officially confirmed his defection from the NNPP to the ruling APC.
His clarification, which was contained in a statement via his Facebook page, ended weeks of intense political speculations over his future in the NNPP.
The Senator hinged his decision to quit on the need to be fully committed to his constituents, which he claimed remained his first priority.
The statement read, “Yes, it is true — the rumours regarding my defection are accurate. All politics is local, and my primary concern has always been, and remains, the welfare of my immediate constituency.
“I am resolutely determined to advance the lives of my people, ensuring their needs are met and their future is secured.”
His exit has also fuelled rumours that the leader of the Kwankwasiyyan Movement and former presidential candidate of the NNPP, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, may return to the APC.
As an additional related update, a seasoned member of the House of Representatives, Oluwole Oke, has declared his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party after many years with them.
The representative of Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency in Osun State declared his resignation in a letter dated April 16, 2025, which was sent to the Chairman of PDP Ward 7 in the Obokun Local Government Area.
The letter stated, “I officially inform you that I am stepping down from my position within the Peoples Democratic Party effective immediately.”
This conclusion was reached following consultations and interactions with my political allies, family, and friends.
I hope you will accept my resignation in good faith.
The copy of the letter was sent to the National Chairman and the Osun State Chairman of the party.
During a short phone call with our correspondent, the legislator seemed uninterested in conducting an interview and firmly based his choice on the divisions within his political party.
“He stated that PDP is divided,” without providing additional details.
In like manner, Eugene Utubor, who serves as the Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Political Mobilization and Engagement, declared on Wednesday that LP Senator Neda Imasuen is close to switching allegiance to the All Progressives Congress.
Utubor, who met with Imasuen on Tuesday evening in Benin, mentioned that the legislator was receptive to joining the APC. He also stated that initiatives are currently being implemented to bolster the party’s position at both national and state levels.
He stated, “I can confirm thatSenator Neda Imasuen will be joining the All Progressives Congress in the upcoming days. I was with him on Tuesday, and his nonverbal cues were quite telling.”
Imasuen feels that the governor has performed exceptionally well within a brief period and it is essential that we unite to support the realization of his vision for our community.
He has motivated each conscientious Edo resident to support the governor as she works tirelessly towards our shared advancement.
Recently, Imasuen has frequently been spotted at various public events together with prominent figures from the APC in Edo State. It appears he maintains good relations with members of the governing party locally.
Along with the recent defectors, numerous notable individuals previously aligned themselves with the All Progressives Congress (APC). Among them were former Kaduna State Governor Muktar Ramalan Yero; senators Shehu Sani, Suleiman Hunkuyi, and Sylvanus Ngele; former Senate President Pius Anyim; Edo’s erstwhile deputy governor Philip Shaibu; Representative Suleiman Gumi from the House of Representatives; and Shuibu Oyedokun, who was part of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) founders. Additional members joining this group consist of Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North, as well as Omosede Igbenedion, Kabiru Classic, Salisu Garba, and Christopher Maikalangu, chairperson of the Abuja Municipal Area Council.
From the NNPP, Yusuf Galambi, representing Gwaram federal constituency in Jigawa, has similarly switched allegiance to the APC. Alongside him, numerous local government chairpersons, councilors, and party functionaries have followed suit. Prominent NNPP figures such as Senator Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila (Kano South), Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, Ali Madaki, and Hon. Badamasi Ayuba have had meetings with APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and are anticipated to formalize their move to the APC shortly.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, several reports suggest that three governors from the PDP party along with NNPP’s national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have reached an agreement with President Tinubu and are expected to switch their allegiance to the APC soon.
A source with knowledge of the situation, requesting confidentiality due to lack of authorization to comment publicly, stated, “Given their behavior and tacit approval, along with how certain state leaders have openly endorsed President Tinubu’s government, it seems probable that several will align themselves with the APC shortly. It won’t surprise me if Governors from Adamawa, Taraba, Akwa Ibom, and perhaps even NNPP’s national leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, ultimately switch sides.”
In reaction, Timothy Osadolor, the PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, criticized the recent migrations of individuals from opposition parties to the APC, stating that these moves cater to personal ambitions instead of benefiting the country as a whole.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Osadolor asserted that the APC presented no constructive offers and accused numerous defectors of being forced under duress, leveraging government resources for coercion.
He remarked, “For certain individuals like me, this isn’t unusual. Remember, I’ve consistently discussed how state institutions can be used as tools to threaten and subdue rival political groups. This has led to the series of party switches you mentioned. Whenever someone voiced an opinion lately, they were often pursued by entities such as the EFCC, ICPC, or DSS.”
There is no positive development within the APC. This party holds significant sway over crucial governmental bodies, and individuals unable to resist the exerted pressures or the stigma associated with investigations conducted by these entities frequently succumb. Within our nation, receiving an invitation from either the EFCC or ICPC typically equates to facing condemnation prior to any formal proceedings.
Individuals dread the social disgrace—feeling ashamed about needing to disclose their situation to relatives, kids, and acquaintances. This emotional burden is something many wish to steer clear of. The prospect becomes too overwhelming for them. Due to this terror, they succumb readily. Nobody desires to be viewed as a culprit when their moral integrity remains intact. Others simply aim to evade experiencing what others went through.
The APC-led administration uses agencies like the EFCC and ICPC along with various state mechanisms to exert influence over numerous politicians. Those unable to resist this pressure ultimately abandon their original parties to join the APC, seeking shelter from such coercion.
Additionally, Ladipo Johnson, the National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, commented that politicians migrating to the APC primarily seek personal advantages instead of acting in the interest of Nigerians.
During an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Johnson claimed that the governing party uses a mix of incentives and pressure tactics to attract members from opposing political groups to join their side.
He said, “It’s evident to us. We have observed over time that the governing party at the center prefers to employ the stick and carrot strategy whenever feasible—to encourage people to join their ranks.”
Those who choose to endure such treatment—we hope they fare well. However, as usual, this is part of politics, where individuals may collaborate with the governing party or an in-power party due to their own self-serving motives.
There are multiple factors behind this, but improving Nigeria’s condition isn’t one of them. Each case varies depending on individual circumstances. This helps identify the specific motivation behind an action taken by a certain person or group. Sometimes individuals are compelled by the ruling party to align with them, others might say they were driven away from their original party due to pressure. Additionally, some may admit to striking a bargain or aiming to secure their position within bodies like the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, among others.
Therefore, numerous distinct factors contribute to such occurrences.
The CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ahmeh, characterized the series of party switches from opposition groups to the APC as shameful.
During an interview with our correspondent, Ahmeh expressed certainty that the alliance would remove President Tinubu along with all the defectors during the 2027 elections.
He stated, “This is indeed a regrettable day—a day for those who manipulate mandates, an era dominated by oppressors, and a time devoid of democracy. No matter what we label this situation, it remains shameful. The public no longer holds the belief that the will of the populace must be safeguarded under any circumstances.”
They are now employing the public’s mandate as leverage in negotiations—to evade the EFCC and secure a spot for a second term. That’s precisely why we continually inform you—why this alliance continues.
And that’s set to occur in 2027. Like-minded individuals will unite, forming robust alliances and coalitions to push forward their agenda. Additionally, there will be an agreement amongst Nigerians. This unity of purpose will lead to a consensus powerful enough to sweep aside APC, President Tinubu, and those who defect.
As a result, the APC greeted the defectors warmly and assured equal opportunities for all participants.
On Wednesday, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka stated that the new members joining from another party are eager to significantly contribute to the successful execution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The statement included: “Under the guidance of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Working Committee of All Progressives Congress warmly welcomes Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State into our esteemed party. Alongside him, several notable figures from the People’s Democratic Party have also joined us, such as former Delta State Governor and PDP’s 2023 vice-presidential nominee, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; key administrative personnel; representatives from the legislative assembly at various levels; heads and members of local governments within the state; alongside numerous additional leaders and members of the PDP.”
Our significant party warmly embraces this crucial advancement and pledges full support and collaboration to the Governor along with the new entrants into the leadership ranks and membership of Delta PDP within the APC community.
“This development follows the continuous shift of key figures and supporters from the PDP to the APC, including those from the Delta Unity Group in Ika federal constituency. We are pleased to seeDelta State, which has become predominantly an APC stronghold, ready to play a significant role in achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and ensuring lasting wellbeing and progress for both Deltans and all Nigerians.”
Additionally, Duro Meseko, who serves as the APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, rejected the claims put forth by the PDP and NNPP, labeling them as complete untruths.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Meseko mentioned that people are voluntarily joining the APC due to their faith in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He added that this initiative is significantly improving the country.
He stated, “This is quite straightforward. The Nigerians joining the APC are not unintelligent people. They are individuals who recognize the patriotic efforts of President Bola Ahmed, particularly his Renewed Hope Agenda which is currently yielding impressive outcomes.”
They have realized that for Nigeria to overcome its challenges, we must make some extremely tough choices, which we’ve accomplished. We’re already witnessing the outcomes. There’s no need to enumerate our successes here. The exchange rate is becoming more stable. Many initiatives are proving effective. Fuel prices, which were a major concern, have dropped significantly multiple times. Additionally, infrastructure improvements are being observed nationwide.
When people witness others who are actively performing or diligently working, that’s precisely why they choose to support APC. More individuals will continue to join their ranks. This isn’t due to any other reason. As the Governor of Akwa Ibom stated, ‘This individual is truly making an effort for us; he’s assisting us.’ Particularly within our state. The focus was drawn towards projects like the Lagos-Calabar highway, among others. Everyone seems pleased.
These are unprecedented experiences for us, which they can now observe firsthand. They can witness that this approach is effective. They can also see that the financial restraint demonstrated by this government is unparalleled. In the past, we resorted to printing currency to prop up our foreign exchange markets; however, such measures are no longer necessary. The funds saved through these initiatives are being reinvested into the productive segments of the economy—this includes assistance for those in need, as well as support for student loans and scholarships. Everything is transparently allocated where it should be.
Therefore, anyone claiming that security personnel are intimidating them and forcing their involvement in this situation is merely spreading a political falsehood. This assertion does not align with reality. Allow me to illustrate with an example. Do you mean to suggest that the EFCC isn’t investigating certain APC ex-governors as well? If so, how can one explain the prosecution of APC governors by the EFCC if these claims were accurate? Hence, such statements hold no merit.”
Furthermore, Bala Ibrahim, who serves as the Publicity Director of APC, condemned the PDP and NNPP for their lack of meaningful critique, expressing frustration over how the opposition steadfastly declines to recognize anything positive about the governing party.
During an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Ibrahim revealed that more Nigerians are aligning themselves with the APC due to its commitment to providing equal chances for all citizens.
He stated, “In a democratic system, elections function much like sporting events. They involve a contest wherein one party must emerge victorious. After determining the victor, attention shifts towards administration. Political maneuvering is meant to cease, and everyone should collaborate to propel the nation ahead.”
Sadly, certain individuals do not approach democracy as true democrats. Instead, they engage in democracy through harsh criticism, casting every action taken by the ruling party in a negative light.
“There is just no way you can say in this dispensation that people are being coerced, or that the EFCC is being used to haunt or twist people into joining the party in power. People have committed all sorts of crimes, but they are prosecuted through the statutory provisions of the law. Nobody is telling you to join the party and charges against you will be dropped. Or nobody is framing charges against someone simply because he is in the opposition.
“I think the opposition needs to have a re – think. Let them come out with something that can be accepted, something that can fly. But, this is one administration that is not witch-hunting and is not coercing. People are continuously trooping into the APC because they have seen it as a party that is providing a level playing field for people who have aspirations or ambitions to deliver. And if anybody is qualified to contest, he is welcome into the party. But nobody is forced.”
The former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Olabode George, questioned why the party’s governors would switch allegiance to the governing party, calling it “disorganized.”
I feel stunned,” George stated. “How could our leaders from a structured political party switch allegiance to the APC, which seems disorganized and is apparently dominated by just two individuals—Tinubu and Ganduje—in what appears to be a dictatorial manner?
APC is a coalition of unusual allies, and I encourage people in Delta State not to join Oborevwori in switching to the APC party since Delta has been a stronghold for PDP since 1999 and will continue to be.
President and the APC are employing government resources to pressure PDP governors into switching allegiance to their party. These governors face threats. The PDP backed Oborevwori for the gubernatorial position; hence, he must step down from his role. Efforts to transform Nigeria into a single-party system will not succeed. Given what the APC has accomplished since 2015, why would any PDP governor consider joining them?
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