The lawmaker representing Delta North in the National Assembly Ned Nwoko, is set to officially defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This move comes after allegations of frustration and marginalization within the PDP, particularly under the leadership of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who Nwoko claims has sidelined the interests of Delta North.
Speaking during a televised interview, Nwoko’s Director of Communications, Gloria Okolugbo, confirmed that the lawmaker had already expressed his intention to leave the PDP during a consultative meeting with Delta North stakeholders, supporters, and constituents. Okolugbo explained that while Senator Nwoko had entered politics with the goal of serving the people of Anioma (Delta North) and delivering essential projects, his efforts had been hindered by the PDP’s lack of cooperation.
Among the key issues raised by Okolugbo was the PDP’s failure to assist in funding critical infrastructure projects, including the Okpai Independent Power Project (IPP), which was designed to supply electricity to over 60 communities in Delta North, and the Ogwashi-Uku Dam project aimed at providing water to the region. She stressed that Nwoko felt it was futile to remain in a party that failed to support his campaign promises to the people of Delta North.
Okolugbo also accused the PDP in Delta State of lacking internal democracy and said the party’s internal strife had led to a growing sense of tension. She stated that Nwoko’s defection would be publicly announced soon, further adding that the move would leave the PDP in a precarious position, having already lost all three of Delta State’s Senate seats to the ruling APC.
“The PDP in Delta has now lost all three Senators to the APC, which could have significant political implications for the party,” Okolugbo noted. She added that factionalization within the PDP had been a driving force behind Nwoko’s decision, pointing out that the party’s inability to address the concerns of Delta North constituents had pushed the senator toward the APC.
Okolugbo concluded by underscoring the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring transparency in governance. She highlighted Nwoko’s commitment to representative democracy and delivering the dividends of good governance to the people of Delta North. As the defection process moves forward, the PDP in Delta State faces growing challenges, with Nwoko’s departure potentially marking a significant blow to the party’s influence in the region.
