Veteran journalist and politician Dele Momodu has described the recent wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a tactical move for political survival rather than a genuine shift in beliefs.
In a televised interview on Channels TV, Momodu said the defections were not surprising, citing Nigeria’s long history of political realignments. “
‘I’m a very good student of Nigeria’s political history, so nothing can surprise me about our politicians.
The history of Nigerian politics is replete with stories of defections,” he remarked.
Reacting specifically to the defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other prominent PDP members, Momodu suggested the move was driven by fear of political persecution.
“What will surprise me is if President Bola Tinubu believes people are joining APC because they love him or because he’s doing fantastically well.
What people are doing now is a game of survival,” he said.
He added that pressure from anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and ICPC has become a key reason politicians seek cover within the ruling party.
“Name one of them who hasn’t been harassed by the EFCC, ICPC, or the Special Fraud Unit.
Gone are the days when politicians like Nelson Mandela or Chief Awolowo were willing to go to jail for their beliefs.
Today, everyone wants to enjoy their wealth from home, not detention,” Momodu said.
According to him, the current administration is using a “carrot and stick” approach.
“If we can’t persuade you, we can force you. And I think force is working for now.”
The defection was officially disclosed by Senator James Manager after a six-hour meeting at the Delta State Government House.
He confirmed that top PDP figures, including Governor Oborevwori, former Governor Okowa, the Speaker of the House, and party officials at state and local levels, had agreed to join the APC.
“We cannot continue to be in a sinking boat,” Manager stated.
Echoing this sentiment, the Delta State Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, said the decision was made to ensure political alignment for continued development.
“We concluded that leaving the PDP was necessary to collaborate and build a state Deltans will be proud of.
The party had lost its flavor — like palm wine that has turned — so we needed to change the drinking party,” he said.
Aniagwu also noted that a formal public declaration would be made the following Monday.