In what appeared to be a stimulated political reunion for Delta State, particularly the Ughelli South axis, the Udu-Ughelli Federal Constituency Steering Committee, under the leadership of Olorogun John Oguma, played host to top-ranking Urhobo representatives in the National Assembly on Saturday, May 23, 2025.
The high-profile parley, held at Ovwor-Olomu, Ughelli South, featured Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central in the Red Chamber, and Hon. Francis Waive, representing the Udu-Ughelli Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber, Abuja.
This gathering marked the first formal political convergence following the strategic realignment that saw the defection of the 24-year-old PDP into the ruling APC, orchestrated by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in April 2025. The mass exodus has since reshaped the political landscape of Delta State, culminating in what many describe as a torrential political fusion.
In his address, Olorogun John Oguma—a revered political heavyweight—welcomed the lawmakers and party faithful, describing the fusion as the best political calculation by Governor Oborevwori. He boldly declared that those who refuse to align with the governor’s vision are the true enemies of Delta State’s progress.
Oguma also introduced the audience to the political pressure group—a body recently birthed within the PDP ranks before the merger—emphasizing its commitment to galvanizing voter support for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and all APC candidates in the 2027 elections.
He unequivocally pronounced that the PDP is dead in Delta State, urging followers not to be deceived by any lingering illusions of its relevance. According to him, the once-dominant party is now a mere political carcass.
Oguma commended Governor Oborevwori’s foresight and charged the lawmakers to foster deep-rooted harmony within the party, ensuring the dividends of democracy trickle down to the grassroots.
In response, Senator Ede Dafinone highlighted the strategic advantages of the political realignment, stressing that the newfound unity within the APC would enable the Delta State Government to pursue socio-economic development without hindrance. He further reaffirmed that the governor remains the rallying point for the party in Delta State, reinforcing his position as the unifying force in the state’s evolving political landscape.
For his part, Hon. Francis Waive expressed deep satisfaction and fulfillment with Governor Oborevwori’s decision to lead the political fusion, noting that the governor had not disappointed him.
It is noteworthy that Hon. Waive was the first prominent APC figure in Delta State to publicly advocate for Governor Oborevwori’s cross-party movement and sole candidacy, a bold stance that initially attracted widespread criticism but ultimately gained acceptance as the governor embraced the proposal.
The Ovwor-Olomu parley has further cemented the new political order in Delta State, signaling a united front as the APC marches towards 2027.
