The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, officially welcomed Senator Ned Nwoko into the ruling party on Wednesday, following his defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Nwoko, who represents Delta North in the Senate, cited internal crises within the PDP as the driving force behind his decision to switch allegiances.
The senator expressed dissatisfaction with the political climate under the leadership of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, stating that their administration did not provide a conducive environment for him to function effectively.
APC Strengthens Hold on Delta State
While receiving Nwoko, Ganduje assured his delegation that with all three Delta senators now in APC’s camp, the party is poised for a strong performance in the next governorship election.
“We are happy to receive you, distinguished Senator Nwoko. There’s no doubt that our leader, President Bola Tinubu, is focused and visionary. Upon assuming office, he immediately introduced crucial reforms, which, though painful, are necessary for Nigeria’s progress.
“But today, we are seeing the impact of these reforms. Oil production has increased, refineries are operational, security is improving, and the country is working again.
“Our chapter in Delta will also uphold internal democracy. With all three senators in Delta now under our party, we are well-positioned to take over Delta State in the coming election,” Ganduje stated confidently.
Nwoko’s Resignation from PDP
Earlier on Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Nwoko’s formal letter of defection during a plenary session. The letter, titled “Notice of Departure from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress,” outlined the senator’s reasons for leaving the PDP.
“This decision was not made lightly but after deep reflection and extensive consultations with my constituents, political associates, and stakeholders across Delta North Senatorial District,” Nwoko explained.
He lamented that the PDP, once a formidable platform for democratic participation and national development, had been weakened by persistent internal conflicts and a lack of clear leadership.
“The unresolved divisions have rendered the PDP ineffective as an opposition party, which in turn threatens the very essence of democracy in Nigeria,” he said.
According to Nwoko, a strong opposition is essential for democracy to thrive, ensuring checks and balances in governance. He warned that the continued decline of the PDP could push Nigeria toward a dangerous one-party system, which history has shown to be detrimental to governance and national stability.
Call for PDP Crisis Investigation
Nwoko called on the Senate to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the internal crisis plaguing the PDP and recommend solutions to restore stability.
“The committee should examine the root causes of the party’s internal collapse, engage relevant stakeholders, and propose reforms that will preserve a viable opposition in Nigeria,” he stated.
He reassured his constituents that he remains committed to serving Delta North and contributing to Nigeria’s progress under the APC.
“I kindly request that my new party affiliation be reflected in the records of the Senate,” he concluded.
Final Resignation from PDP
In a separate resignation letter addressed to the PDP leadership in Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, dated January 30, 2025, Nwoko further expressed disappointment over the state of the party.
“My decision to resign is primarily due to the deep divisions and irreconcilable factions within the party. This fragmentation has made it increasingly difficult to foster unity and advance the collective interests of our people,” he wrote.
As the APC consolidates its power in Delta State with Nwoko’s defection, political analysts anticipate intensified efforts from the ruling party to secure victory in the next elections. Meanwhile, the PDP faces mounting pressure to resolve its internal strife and restore confidence among its members.
