admin Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has clearly stated that he has no plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the All Progressives Congress (APC). This statement was made by the state’s Commissioner for Works, Rural Roads, and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu.
Aniagwu, speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show, said that Governor Oborevwori is a “poster governor” of the PDP, and any talk about him joining the APC is just wishful thinking by his critics. The commissioner’s remarks come at a time when politicians often switch parties to gain political advantage or personal gain.
However, Oborevwori’s strong commitment to the PDP is very different from this trend. It shows his principled approach to governing and his unwavering loyalty to the party that made him the state’s leader.
Aniagwu’s comparison of a “political lab” to test the political temperature of Delta State residents is meaningful. It highlights the deep support for the PDP within the state. He said that the party runs “profoundly and heavily in our bloodstream,” showing the party’s long-standing dominance in the region.
“That’s why those spreading rumors about Oborevwori wanting to move to the APC are just hoping he would join their side,” Aniagwu said, emphasizing that the governor’s defection would be a major win for the APC.
Oborevwori’s Unwavering Commitment to the PDP
Aniagwu’s comments make it clear that Oborevwori is committed to the PDP. The commissioner stated that the governor is “not only a proud member of the PDP and a leader of the party both in Delta and Nigeria, but he is also a performing governor who can rightly be seen as a ‘poster governor’ for the PDP.”
This statement shows the high regard in which Oborevwori is held by his fellow PDP members. The “poster governor” title suggests that the governor is a shining example of the party’s ideals and a symbol of its continued importance in the political landscape.
Aniagwu’s statement also directly rejects the “wishful thinking” of those who have been speculating about Oborevwori’s potential defection. The commissioner made it very clear that the governor is “not in the business of defection” and has no plans to leave the PDP.
This unwavering commitment to the party is especially noteworthy given the recent political climate in Nigeria, where high-profile defections have become common. The ability of a governor to resist the temptation of switching parties, even when faced with potential political gains or pressure, shows their principles and their belief in the party they represent.
Fostering Cooperation with the Federal Government
Aniagwu’s comments also show that Oborevwori is willing to work with the federal government, led by President Bola Tinubu of the APC. The commissioner stated that the governor’s declaration of support for the president was a “patriotic move aimed at fostering good governance, not an attempt to look for another political platform.”
This stance shows Oborevwori’s practical approach to governing, where he is willing to set aside party differences and work with the federal administration for the benefit of the state and its citizens. By maintaining a cooperative relationship with the president, the governor is demonstrating his commitment to putting the needs of the people above political considerations.
Aniagwu’s remarks suggest that Oborevwori’s support for President Tinubu is not a sign of political opportunism or a sign that he will defect, but rather a genuine effort to ensure that the state and its residents benefit from the federal government’s policies and initiatives.
This collaborative approach is especially important in a political landscape where party divisions can often slow progress and make it difficult to deliver public services. By fostering a constructive relationship with the federal government, Oborevwori is positioning Delta State to take advantage of resources and opportunities that may arise, ultimately benefiting the people he has been entrusted to serve.
A Mature Approach
Aniagwu’s comments also show that the PDP has experienced “some internal disagreements” during its 16-year time in power. This recognition shows that even the most successful political parties face internal challenges and conflicts.
However, the commissioner’s statement that these disagreements are “to be expected in a party that performed well during its 16 years in power” suggests that Oborevwori and the PDP leadership in Delta State have a mature and practical approach to managing these internal issues.
This ability to navigate the complexities of party politics while maintaining a focus on effective governance is a testament to Oborevwori’s leadership skills and the PDP’s organizational strength in the state. By acknowledging the existence of internal disagreements, Aniagwu demonstrates a willingness to address these issues directly, rather than ignoring or downplaying them.
This honest and open approach can help build trust and unity within the party, as it shows a recognition of the need for open dialogue and conflict resolution. It also sends a message to the party’s supporters and the broader public that the PDP in Delta State is committed to addressing its internal challenges and presenting a united front.
Addressing Predictions of the PDP’s Extinction
Aniagwu’s comments also directly address the predictions of the PDP’s demise, which he dismisses as the “height of a malaria-induced dream.” This strong rebuttal reflects the party’s confidence in its continued relevance and its ability to overcome the challenges it has faced in recent years.
The commissioner’s assertion that the PDP “runs profoundly and heavily in our bloodstream” in Delta State suggests a deep-rooted support for the party that will be difficult to remove. This sentiment is echoed in Aniagwu’s unwavering declaration that Oborevwori is a “symbol of what the party stands for,” further cementing the governor’s status as a standard-bearer for the PDP in the state.
By directly confronting the predictions of the party’s extinction, Aniagwu is sending a clear message that the PDP in Delta State is not only alive and well but also poised to continue its dominance in the region. This defiant stance is a testament to the party’s confidence in its ability to adapt and evolve in the face of changing political landscapes.
