Speaker, 21 Lawmakers Dump PDP for APC, House Becomes One-Party Chamber

The Delta State House of Assembly has been shaken to its core as Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor and 21 other lawmakers have officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), turning what was once a multi-party legislature into a full-fledged APC-dominated House.

The announcement came during the Assembly’s plenary session on Monday, marking the first sitting after the Easter break. With all 29 lawmakers now flying the APC flag—including the original seven elected under the party—the House has, in effect, become a one-party chamber.

Addressing the chamber, Speaker Guwor said the decision to cross over wasn’t made lightly. He explained that extensive consultations were held with constituents, party stakeholders, and community leaders across the state before the switch.

“This move wasn’t about personal gain or political gamesmanship. We listened to our people, and their voices guided our steps,” the Speaker said.

Guwor cited Section 109 of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended) to justify the move, pointing out that lawmakers are allowed to change political parties under specific conditions, especially in cases of division or dysfunction within their original party.

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He further explained that the decision was tied to a broader realignment currently unfolding in Delta State, which has seen high-level political figures, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, tilt toward the APC in what some analysts say is a calculated play ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Speaker also informed the House that he had received 21 separate letters—his own included—announcing the defection of the former PDP lawmakers. Each letter was read aloud, and a motion to adopt them was moved by the Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by Hon. Ferguson Onwo of Isoko South II.

While thanking members for their cooperation and contributions thus far, Guwor urged the now all-APC legislature to focus on completing all pending bills and legislative duties before the current session winds down.

“The task before us remains the same—serve Delta State with dedication and integrity. Party colors may have changed, but our responsibility to the people endures,” he said.

Political observers say this mass defection is one of the most significant shake-ups in Delta’s recent political history. It signals a major power shift and sets the stage for an intense battle in the lead-up to 2027, with the APC now firmly entrenched in a state that was once a PDP stronghold.