ABUJA — Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, following reports of their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri described the alleged move as “courageous and timely,” asserting that it reflects growing national support for President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
“This decision by Governor Oborevwori and Dr. Okowa is not just politically symbolic,” the minister stated. “It is a testimony to the far-reaching impact of President Tinubu’s leadership. Across party lines, Nigerians are acknowledging the results-driven governance that is reshaping our country.”
The minister also framed the reported defection as evidence of rising bipartisan consensus on national development goals. He urged other political leaders, especially from the South-South region, to align with President Tinubu’s administration for the sake of national unity and progress.
“I call on other well-meaning leaders, especially in the South South, to rise above partisan interests and join hands with the President in delivering sustainable development to our people,” he added.
Lokpobiri reaffirmed his confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, emphasizing that the shift in political allegiance—if officially confirmed—would represent a major realignment in Delta State, a historically stronghold of the PDP.
Neither Governor Oborevwori nor Dr. Okowa has issued a formal statement confirming their defection as of press time. However, the development continues to generate intense political discussion, signaling potential ripple effects in regional and national politics.
