A major internal crisis is shaking the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following widespread allegations that ward and local government executive lists were imposed ahead of the party’s upcoming congresses.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that the dispute stems from an intense power struggle between long-standing APC members and defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with both sides battling for control of party structures across the state.
Protests Rock Party Secretariat
The crisis escalated into protests at the APC State Secretariat in Asaba, where aggrieved members accused influential figures of manipulating the consensus process.
Sources revealed that tensions began last week when the party commenced compiling consensus lists for ward and local government executives. The process has reportedly led to suspensions of some officials accused of anti-party activities.
Ughelli South, North Flashpoints
In Ughelli South, both old APC members and former PDP defectors rejected the consensus list, alleging it was imposed by a government contractor and former PDP leader identified as Oguma.
Protesters accused him and a party executive, Akpeki, of colluding to install preferred candidates and allegedly exchanging large sums of money to influence the process.
Similarly, tensions flared in Ughelli North, where party members opposed the alleged imposition of Lucky Ofomukoro as consensus chairman. The decision reportedly sparked outrage among long-standing party loyalists.
Allegations Spread Across LGAs
In Ika North East, party members accused former PDP defectors of dominating and imposing candidates, further deepening divisions.
At Isoko North, tensions intensified after leaders accused House of Representatives member Jonathan Ukodhiko of attempting to install his aide as local government party chairman — an allegation his supporters have not publicly addressed.
Party insiders also linked disputes in Emevor and Iyede Ward 1 to alleged interference by Kome Okpobor, a DESOPADEC executive and former PDP member, whom long-time APC leaders accused of manipulating the consensus list.
Multiple Lists, Growing Uncertainty
SUNTV Global Channel learned that similar conflicts have emerged in several other wards, including Irri and Uzere, where competing executive lists were reportedly submitted to party authorities.
When contacted, Delta APC Chairman Omeni Sobotie declined detailed comments, stating that responses would come after the ward congress scheduled for February 18, 2026.
Party Unity At Risk
Political observers warn that the deepening crisis could weaken the APC’s unity in Delta State ahead of future elections, as the struggle between old party members and recent defectors continues to widen internal cracks.
For now, protests and petitions continue to flood the party secretariat, signaling that reconciliation efforts may face significant hurdles in the days ahead.
