Like Play, Like Play, APC Is Sweeping PDP Away From South-East And South-South, by Isaac Asabor

The political landscape of Nigeria is as dynamic as it is unpredictable. Over the years, alliances have shifted, loyalties have wavered, and political strongholds have changed hands. Recent developments, particularly in the South-East and South-South regions, underscore this fluidity. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be making significant inroads into territories traditionally dominated by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This trend, exemplified by reports of Senator Ned Nwoko’s potential defection to the APC, highlights a larger narrative that deserves careful examination.

Historically speaking, the PDP has long enjoyed robust support in the South-East and South-South. Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the party has been a dominant force in these regions, leveraging ethnic, cultural, and historical connections to solidify its base. Leaders like former President Goodluck Jonathan and other influential figures have been instrumental in maintaining this dominance. However, the tide seems to be turning, and the APC is emerging as a formidable challenger.

The speculation surrounding Senator Ned Nwoko’s move to the APC has sent shockwaves through political circles. A prominent figure in Delta State and the South-South, Nwoko’s influence extends beyond politics into philanthropy and grassroots mobilization. His potential defection could be a significant blow to the PDP and a major gain for the APC.

While some might dismiss this as a mere rumor, Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, the Director of Communications for Senator Ned Nwoko, has confirmed that the senator is set to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released on Sunday and sent to journalists, Okolugbo disclosed that the decision follows a series of consultative meetings with stakeholders, supporters, and constituents in Delta North. She noted that the defection is driven by Nwoko’s frustration with the PDP’s inability to support his developmental goals for the Anioma people.

“Senator Ned Nwoko came prepared to serve and deliver the dividends of good governance to the Anioma people, but regrettably, he has not enjoyed the cooperation and support of his party, the PDP, in pursuing this vision. This is despite being the only PDP senator in Delta State,” Okolugbo stated.

However, former senator representing Delta North Senatorial District and a leader in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Peter Nwaoboshi has strongly condemned Senator Ned Nwoko’s alleged attempts to destabilize the Delta State APC.

In a press statement released on January 20, 2025, Nwaoboshi accused Nwoko, of secretly plotting with elements in the Presidency to dissolve the Delta State APC Executives before their tenure expires.

He described Nwoko’s actions as unjust, arrogant, and a significant threat to the party’s stability and unity in Delta State.

Though, Nigerians are yet to hear from the horse’s mouth, the news fits into a broader pattern. High-profile defections have become a recurring theme in Nigerian politics, often signaling shifts in power dynamics. Nwoko’s move, if it becomes a reality would not only weaken the PDP in Delta State but could also inspire similar moves by other influential figures in the region.

In fact, several factors contribute to the APC’s growing influence in the South-East and South-South. First and foremost is strategic governance initiatives.

The foregoing view is as the APC has been keen to project itself as a party of action and progress. Infrastructure development, economic reforms, and social welfare programs championed by the Buhari administration and now under President Tinubu are often cited as reasons for the growing appeal of the APC in these regions. While criticisms abound, particularly regarding the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, the ruling party’s outreach efforts cannot be ignored.

The PDP has faced significant internal challenges, including leadership tussles, factionalism, and the inability to present a united front. These issues have eroded public confidence and created opportunities for the APC to capitalize on the disarray.

In Nigerian politics, proximity to power is often a decisive factor. With the APC holding the presidency and a majority in the National Assembly, many politicians see a strategic advantage in aligning with the ruling party. This is particularly true in regions where development projects and federal appointments are perceived as being tied to party loyalty.

Without a doubt, not a few   younger generation of voters in the South-East and South-South is increasingly disillusioned with traditional political alignments. The APC’s ability to tap into this demographic through targeted campaigns and digital engagement has yielded dividends.

The potential erosion of the PDP’s dominance in the South-East and South-South has far-reaching implications:

Given the political realignment that have so far taken place in the two regions, it is not out of place to opine that a stronger APC presence in these regions could lead to a further fundamental shift in Nigeria’s political equation. Historically, the South-East and South-South have been critical to the PDP’s electoral success. Losing ground here would make it increasingly difficult for the party to mount a credible challenge at the national level.

Analyzed from the perspective of policy focus, it would not be a misnomer to opine that with the APC’s growing influence, there is likely to be an increased focus on addressing the specific needs of these regions. Infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization may take center stage as the APC seeks to consolidate its gains.

No doubt, the political poaching which APC has over the years relentlessly pursued in the area has increased political competition. In fact, the decline of a one-party dominance in the South-East and South-South could foster a more competitive political environment. This could lead to greater accountability and responsiveness from both the APC and the PDP as they vie for the support of the electorate.

Against the backdrop of the situation, it is expedient to ask, “Has the development brought challenges for the APC?” The answer, no doubt, cannot be farfetched as it obvious that while the APC’s gains are noteworthy, sustaining this momentum will require addressing several challenges that cut across economic realities, managing internal dynamics, and perception issues. 

Explanatorily put, it is expedient to opine that the current economic challenges facing Nigeria, including inflation and unemployment, remain a significant hurdle. The APC’s ability to deliver tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens will be a critical determinant of its long-term success. Like the PDP, the APC is not immune to internal crises. The party must navigate factionalism and ensure that its growing ranks do not lead to fragmentation.

Unfortunately, the leadership of the APC might think that it is soaring on the back of politicians jettisoning other parties, to join it.  Given the retrogressive development it might have over the months engendered, it may not be out of place to opine that APC has developed the delusion of perceiving itself to be the party to belong to without realizing that in reality, it is primarily a party of opportunists. Therefore, it is essential it starts building a narrative of genuine commitment to development and good governance. 

However, it is germane to opine at this juncture that there is a road ahead for the APC.  In fact, as the 2027 elections approach, the political dynamics in the South-East and South-South will be a focal point. For the PDP, the challenge is clear: it must reinvent itself, address internal issues, and reconnect with its base. For the APC, the task is to build on its gains, deliver on its promises, and present a compelling vision for the future.

To buttress the foregoing view, it is expedient to recall that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has at different times since the past political dispensations made significant inroads in the South East and South South regions, by overthrowing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in key states. The states where this shift occurred include Ebonyi State (South East): Previously a PDP stronghold, the APC gained control largely due to the defection of Governor David Umahi to the APC during his tenure. His leadership and influence facilitated the party’s consolidation in the state.

In Cross River State (South South): Governor Ben Ayade’s defection from the PDP to the APC reshaped the political dynamics in the state, giving the APC a strong foothold and eventual dominance.

In Rivers State (South South): The APC made strides in Rivers, benefiting from internal PDP conflicts and leveraging the support of influential figures like former Governor Nyesom Wike, who has been collaborating with the ruling party.

In Edo State, the APC has successfully disrupted the PDP’s dominance, marking another significant political shift in the South South region. This development follows years of intense political rivalry between the two parties, with APC leveraging discontent among the electorate and strategic defections to strengthen its foothold. The APC’s resurgence in Edo was bolstered by the leadership and influence of key political figures, who mobilized grassroots support and presented the party as a viable alternative to the PDP’s governance.

The internal crisis within the PDP, particularly the strained relationship between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, further weakened the party’s unity and public perception. This discord provided the APC with an opportunity to exploit the PDP’s vulnerabilities and reassert itself as a dominant force. The APC’s promise of renewed economic opportunities and infrastructural development resonated with voters, enabling it to overthrow the PDP and reclaim its influence in Edo State. This victory is a testament to the APC’s strategy of consolidating power in the South South and South East regions.

These states highlight the APC’s ability to capitalize on defections, internal opposition weakness, and strategic alliances to dismantle the PDP’s long-standing dominance in these regions.

Now back to APC’s inroad in Delta State, it is expedient to opine that Senator Ned Nwoko’s potential defection is not just a political headline; it is a reflection of a larger trend. Like play, like play, the APC is indeed sweeping the PDP away from its traditional strongholds in the South-East and South-South. Whether this trend will endure or prove to be a temporary disruption remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Nigerian politics is entering a new and intriguing phase.