Okpai power plant, Ogwashi-Uku Dam 're example, I wasn’t allowed to nominate board members–Ned Nwoko
According to vanguard, Senator Ned Nwoko has officially confirmed his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing difficulties in collaborating with key party figures, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Nwoko announced his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) on January 31, marking a significant shift in his political allegiance.
The lawmaker from Delta North attributed his departure to ongoing internal divisions within the PDP, which he described as deeply factionalized. He expressed concerns that the growing divisions within the party had become irreconcilable, making it increasingly difficult to work effectively. This internal strife, he noted, was a key factor influencing his decision to move to the APC, where he hoped to find a more stable and supportive environment for his political goals.
Nwoko’s decision to leave the PDP has been met with reactions from within the party. Fred Oghenesivbe, an aide to Governor Oborevwori, suggested that Nwoko’s exit was motivated by his fear of losing the PDP ticket in the 2027 elections. According to Oghenesivbe, Nwoko’s defection was driven by his concerns about the lack of influence and opportunities within the PDP. He pointed to specific instances, such as the control over the Okpai power plant and Ogwashi-Uku dam projects, where Nwoko felt sidelined in terms of political appointments and influence.
In his departure speech, Nwoko highlighted his frustration with being excluded from significant political decisions within the PDP. He noted that despite his long-standing association with the party, he was not allowed to nominate board members, commissioners, or local government chairmen in his constituency. This lack of representation in key positions, he claimed, hindered his ability to secure vital projects for his constituents. As a result, Nwoko felt compelled to switch to the ruling APC, hoping that this move would better position him to attract important projects and developments to Delta North.
Nwoko’s shift to the APC represents a significant change in the political landscape of Delta State, where the PDP has long held a dominant position. The senator’s defection is seen as a reflection of the growing discontent within the PDP ranks, particularly in the wake of leadership transitions and the challenges of navigating internal party politics. His move to the APC is expected to strengthen the party’s presence in Delta North, as Nwoko has been a prominent figure in the region’s political scene.
As Nwoko settles into his new party, his decision to join the APC raises questions about the future dynamics of the political landscape in Delta State. His defection is a clear indication of the shifting alliances within Nigerian politics, where party loyalty can be fragile and often subject to the changing fortunes of individual politicians. It remains to be seen how this move will impact the broader political scene in the state, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
He said: “Okpai power plant and Ogwashi-Uku dam are examples, I wasn’t allowed to nominate any board members, commissioners, or local government chairmen. I had to join the ruling party so as to be able to attract projects to my constituency. Time is running.”