Onicha-Ugbo, Delta State – Friday, June 20, 2025 — Following the recent wave of defections that shook Delta State’s political landscape — including the surprising move of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other key members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) — a group of steadfast PDP members in Aniocha North Local Government Area have taken decisive steps to revive the party at the grassroots level.
On Friday, June 20, a strategic meeting was held at the residence of a prominent PDP leader, Prof. Sylvester Monye, at Chelsea Close, Onicha-Ugbo. The meeting was convened by Hon. Ekehazia Alexander Okolie, drawing together over 40 party delegates determined to keep the PDP alive and functional in the face of political uncertainty.
Among those in attendance were an executive of the South-South PDP, Mr. Chuks Nwaebuni, representatives from each of the 10 political wards that make up Aniocha North, and four former councillors. The gathering was aimed at laying out a practical and urgent plan to rebuild the PDP’s grassroots structures.
During the meeting, the stakeholders voiced their disappointment over the governor’s defection, stating that they were left in the dark about his decision. They emphasized that while Governor Oborevwori has performed admirably in office, his sudden move to the APC — without consulting or informing loyal party members — came as a shock.
“Our Governor is doing well. That is not the issue. What we do not understand is why he would leave the party that brought him to power without telling those of us who stood by him,” said Mr. Chuks Nwaebuni.
Despite this setback, the mood in the room was one of resilience and renewed determination. The stakeholders declared that the PDP is still alive in Delta State and that efforts must be made to prevent its collapse at the local level.
“The party is still standing. It is our responsibility to make sure it continues to exist and grow,” stated Hon. Okolie.
As part of the recovery plan, members who have remained with the PDP were urged to return to their wards and communities to begin mobilization and awareness campaigns, letting people know that the PDP remains a strong and credible political platform.
They also resolved to hold an inaugural LGA-wide meeting in the coming days, where caretaker committees will be formed in each ward and at the local government level. These committees will oversee party affairs and coordinate ongoing revival efforts.
Prof. Monye noted that this restructuring aligns with similar steps being taken at the national and state levels of the PDP, where transitional caretaker committees are being installed to manage the party during this critical period.
“We must rebuild from the grassroots up. What is happening at the national and state levels is exactly what we must replicate here in Aniocha North,” Prof. Monye said.
The meeting concluded with a strong call for unity, urging all loyal PDP members across Aniocha North and the state to stay focused and committed to the party’s values and future.
As the PDP navigates one of its most significant challenges in recent history, Aniocha North may now become a model of how local loyalty and grassroots efforts can steer a party back from the brink.
