The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State faces escalating tension as Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, prepares to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking on Arise TV, Senator Nwoko’s Director of Communications, Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, revealed that the senator had informed key stakeholders, constituents, and supporters of his decision. She attributed his planned exit to frustration over the PDP’s lack of internal democracy and its failure to support his developmental initiatives for Delta North.
“Senator Nwoko came into office prepared to deliver dividends of democracy to the Anioma people, but he has not enjoyed the necessary cooperation from the PDP, even as its only senator in Delta State,” Okolugbo stated.
She cited specific instances of neglect by the PDP and the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, such as the refusal to fund the Okpai IPP step-down project, which would supply electricity to over 60 Delta North communities, and the Ogwashi-Uku Dam project for water supply.
“It is disappointing that despite Senator Nwoko’s commitment to deliver basic infrastructure like water and electricity, politics and factionalism have created unnecessary barriers,” Okolugbo lamented.
Okolugbo criticized the PDP for its internal dysfunction, alleging factionalism within the party. She noted, “One of the key reasons a serving member can defect is factionalization. Even without violence, you can see that the PDP in Delta is divided.”
She added that Senator Nwoko’s decision is a response to the PDP’s inability to support his vision for Delta North, including infrastructure projects and grassroots empowerment programs.
Tracing the PDP’s dominance in Delta North, Okolugbo highlighted how the party wrested control from the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) through years of grassroots engagement. She credited Senator Nwoko’s leadership and vision for helping cement the PDP’s foothold in the region.
“Senator Nwoko worked tirelessly to assure the electorate that governance would deliver real dividends. Unfortunately, the current PDP leadership has undermined those efforts,” she said.
Confirming his imminent defection, Okolugbo said, “Senator Nwoko is going to decamp. He held a consultative meeting with his constituents to inform them of his decision.” She revealed that his move to the APC aligns with his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and his engagement with the federal government.
“Senator Nwoko’s constructive proposals to the federal government have been well-received by the president, and he believes aligning with the APC will enable him to achieve more for his constituents,” she added.
Nwoko’s defection, if finalized, will leave the PDP without a single senator from Delta State, with all three senators now aligning with the APC. This shift could significantly alter the political dynamics in Delta, a traditional PDP stronghold.
“The PDP’s inability to retain its senators is a clear indication of dissatisfaction among its lawmakers and a warning sign for the party in Delta State,” Okolugbo said.
As Senator Nwoko’s defection looms, political observers are closely watching the developments in Delta North, where the move could redefine the region’s political landscape.
With his constituents’ input shaping his final decision, Nwoko’s move to the APC underscores the growing demand for leadership that prioritizes development and accountability over party politics.
