“We’ve gained a governor without a fight”, – Ebiakpo Ezebri, APC State Chairmanship aspirant, applaud Delta PDP’s defection to APC.

Honourable Ebiakpo Ezebri, a founding leader and chairmanship aspirant of the APC in Delta State, applauded the recent defection of the PDP structure into the APC. In an interview with Advocate.ng, Ezebri emphasized that the peaceful political fusion marks a significant milestone for the party, noting that it brought in not just numbers but also the sitting governor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, without internal strife or resistance. According to him, this rare transition should be seen as a blessing, not a threat, provided mutual respect guides the integration process. He asserted that the key to sustaining party unity lies in inclusivity and recognition of longstanding members, cautioning against any attempt to sideline foundational APC stakeholders in the name of political expediency.

Q: Please introduce yourself.

My name is Honourable Ebiakpo Ezebri. I am from Burutu Local Government Area and a pioneer chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State. I am also one of the founding leaders of the party. I served as the Pioneer State Financial Secretary of the APC from 2015 to 2019. Following that, I was elected as the State Treasurer in 2019. I remain an active and committed member of the APC from Burutu Local Government Area. He was a member of the presidential campaign council, PCC and independent campaign council in 2023 elections.

Q: Have you contested any political positions in the past?

Yes, I have. Before the formation of the APC in 2013–2014, I was already active in politics. I was a member of the All-Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), which later merged into the APC. I served as a councillor in my local government from 1999 to 2002. In 2003, I contested for a seat in the Delta State House of Assembly. In 2004, I ran for the chairmanship of the local council. Again in 2007, I contested for the House of Assembly under the ANPP. In 2011, I also ran for office under the same party. Politically, I have consistently contested elections and held several positions. Additionally, I served as the ANPP State Welfare Officer around 2004. Altogether, my political journey has spanned nearly three decades.

Q: So, you’ve been active in politics for about 27 years?

Yes, that’s correct. I’ve been actively involved in politics for about 27 years now.

Q: In 2021 during the last APC Congress, you ran, it’s also remoured that you are running for the position of the state party chairman, what is the true position?

Yes, it was in October 2021 that the Congresses were held. I was a candidate for the State Chairmanship position at the time. There’s been a long-standing tradition, from 1999 to date — even within the opposition PDP — that when the governorship candidate comes from Delta Central and the deputy governor from Delta North, the state party chairman typically comes from Delta South.

Back then, when it became clear that the party was planning to zone the governorship to Delta Central, particularly with the emergence of a distinguished senator Ovie Omo-Agege from the area, and still wanted to bring the state chairman from the same zone, I raised an alarm. I made several public statements warning that it would be a mistake and detrimental to the party’s prospects in 2023. I emphasized that the best thing to do was simply the right thing — to maintain balance and respect political zoning.

I believe that mistake significantly affected us. If you recall, the APC was quite strong ahead of the 2023 elections. Our campaigns covered all the local governments, and momentum was on our side. However, once that zoning error occurred during the Congresses, it triggered mistrust and dissatisfaction. Many lost confidence in the process, seeing it as a one-man show, rather than a fair and inclusive democratic exercise. I said it back then — and I stand by it — that it was one of the major reasons APC lost the 2023 election. The governorship candidate was from Delta Central, and surprisingly, the state party chairman also came from Delta Central. That’s never been the tradition anywhere. It disrupted the balance that would have given us a strategic advantage.

But now, I believe we have learned from that mistake. Even with the recent fusion of PDP and APC elements in Delta State, we must not repeat that error. PDP has always been strategic and intelligent with its internal arrangements. Before their defection, their structure followed that established zoning: governor from Delta Central, deputy from Delta North, and party chairman from Delta South. I trust they will bring that same wisdom into APC.

I can confirm that I am running for the State Chairmanship of the APC. I strongly believe I have what it takes to lead the party in that capacity. I have paid my dues and made sacrifices for the party over the years. If you look at my political track record, you’ll understand that this is the right time. In 2021, I ran for the same position, but I was asked to step down. Now in 2025, I am contesting again — not because PDP has merged with APC, but because I was already in the race before their defection. I have been consulting widely, and many leaders have given me their blessings. That’s why I say it is no longer speculation — it is a declaration.

I am from Delta South, and we all know that the position of state chairman is traditionally zoned to Delta South. However, there have been utterances suggesting that the role should be reserved specifically for the Ijaw or Itsekiri ethnic groups. Let me clarify: since 2014, the Ijaws have not held any major or sensitive position in the party structure. The pioneer state chairman was from Isoko. The three senatorial chairmen have come from Itsekiri, Delta Central, and Delta North respectively. In contrast, the Ijaw people have only held positions such as State Financial Secretary and Youth Leader.

Given this history, we believe it is fair and just that the state chairmanship now be zoned to the Ijaw people. I am presenting myself for that responsibility, and I am confident in my ability to pilot the affairs of the party effectively. I believe that addresses your question fully.

Q: In the event that you become APC State Chairman, how do you intend to consolidate your position and manage the party, especially considering the new dynamics following the fusion of APC and PDP elements in Delta State?

Well, as you know, the APC today is a very big party — not just because of its size, but because it now comprises two major political blocs: the original APC structure and a significant portion of the PDP that has recently joined us. In Delta State, we have essentially merged these two political families. However, it is important to note that PDP still exists as a political party in Nigeria. What we have in Delta is not a total collapse of the PDP, but rather a strategic political fusion within the state.

In light of this, I believe that my role, if elected State Chairman, is to serve as a bridge — a unifier who can harmonize both structures effectively. What we need now is a leader with a broad, inclusive mindset — someone who carries no malice or bias and is committed to building a united and functional party. Anyone aspiring to be APC State Chairman at this point must be free of grudges or resentment from past political battles. Holding onto such grievances will only sow division.

My approach will be one of inclusion. I intend to be a chairman for all — not for just the original APC members or the newcomers from PDP. Every opportunity and benefit within the party will be equally accessible to all members, regardless of their political history. I will run an open-door administration. Everyone will be carried along. There will be no discrimination, whether in appointments, responsibilities, or resource distribution.

People know me as someone who does not hold grudges. If I were the type to bear grudges, even within my local government area, it would have created a hostile political climate. But I have always been one who accommodates everyone. And like I said earlier, I am genuinely happy about the PDP members coming into APC. This is not a time for conflict — there is no more fighting. We are now one political family, and we must move forward together.

So, the idea of resenting or sidelining those who recently joined us is not only unnecessary, it is counterproductive. We must embrace one another and give everyone their due respect. Many politicians have contributed significantly to party politics but have never been properly recognized. If I become State Chairman, I will ensure that such people receive the recognition they deserve.

Q: Recently, the entire PDP structure in Delta State defected to the APC. Some people are expressing concerns that this could create a leadership crisis within the party. As a stakeholder and foundational member of the APC in Delta State, what is your take? Do you think this will compound the existing crisis or help resolve it?

Well, this is not the first time a sitting governor has defected from one party to another. We’ve witnessed similar situations in other states and seen how party structures managed the transition. For those of us who are founding members and leaders of the APC in Delta State, we believe that the governor’s defection to the APC is one of the best things to happen to our party in the state.

It is a very positive development, and we are genuinely happy about it. We’ve opened our arms to receive the governor and his team, and we intend to live and work with them just as we have done with our fellow party members over the years. We’re giving them space, welcoming them fully. Honestly, if someone had told me before that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori would join the APC, I wouldn’t have believed it.

During the 2023 campaign, I stood on the podium at Ayakromo town and told the people that the APC would complete the Ayakromo bridge. Today, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has joined the APC, and under this party, he will complete that bridge. That’s something worth celebrating. We’ve gained a governor without a fight — no bloodshed, no internal battles. That’s a major win for us.

Now, regarding the concern about a potential leadership crisis: we had leaders in the APC long before Sheriff and his team joined. If his structure integrates with the existing system in a respectful and collaborative way, there will be no crisis. But if they come with the mindset of taking over and sidelining the original members, then yes, it could lead to tension. Nobody will accept being pushed out of their own home. But if you enter someone’s house respectfully, they will give you a room, share meals with you, and live peacefully with you. Over time, you become part of that household. That’s how we should operate politically — mutual respect and shared goals.

For example, we recently saw a successful program involving 400 people from our ward, jointly executed by both the old and new APC factions. That’s a sign of good things to come, and it shows what we can enjoy together if unity is prioritized. But if the intention is to dominate or remove the old structure completely — by using financial power or political leverage — then trust will erode, and problems will arise. Politics should be about give and take. As we welcome new members, they must also respect those of us who built this party from the ground up.

We are also heading into a critical period with upcoming congresses. Many old APC members have shown interest in contesting for various party positions. If the new entrants attempt to override that structure or undermine these long-standing members, it will create serious issues. That would be unhealthy for party unity and progress.

While we are willing to embrace and work with the newcomers, we also expect to be respected and recognized for our contributions. If all interests are carried along and given due regard, there will be no internal wrangling. Instead, the APC in Delta State will emerge as a stronger, unified force — a political powerhouse. PDP and APC have now merged in a way, so this is an opportunity to build the most formidable party in the state. The best approach is for everyone to sit at the same table, plan together, and respect each other’s roles and experiences. As you can see, the process has already started. Registration is ongoing. Congresses are coming. Let’s work together. Let the new entrants recognize and respect the efforts of the old members. That’s the only way we’ll move forward successfully.

Q: There are reports of a new political coalition being built against the APC. If such a coalition gains momentum, what would be your strategy to counter it as State Chairman?

To be honest, the coalitions you’re referring to — like the rumoured alliances involving Atiku, Obi, and others — don’t have any real traction in Delta State. They may be gaining attention at the national level, but here in Delta, they lack structure, presence, and influence. In Delta South, for example, the only dominant political parties are the PDP and APC. Those other coalitions are practically nonexistent here. They don’t have grassroots support or any real political weight in this state.

So, while the national APC may be addressing those coalitions from a broader perspective, as State Chairman, I would focus on strengthening our base in Delta. My strategy would involve unity, effective mobilization, grassroots engagement, and ensuring that all stakeholders — both old and new — are fully integrated and motivated.

Ultimately, our strength will come from within — not just from countering coalitions, but from being a cohesive, prepared, and well-organized political force. That is what I will work to ensure if allowed to serve as State Chairman.

 

“We’ve gained a governor without a fight”, – Ebiakpo Ezebri, APC State Chairmanship aspirant, applaud Delta PDP’s defection to APC

“We’ve gained a governor without a fight”, – Ebiakpo Ezebri, APC State Chairmanship aspirant, applaud Delta PDP’s defection to APC

Onshed 3 hours ago Interview, Politics

Honourable Ebiakpo Ezebri, a founding leader and chairmanship aspirant of the APC in Delta State, applauded the recent defection of the PDP structure into the APC. In an interview with Advocate.ng, Ezebri emphasized that the peaceful political fusion marks a significant milestone for the party, noting that it brought in not just numbers but also the sitting governor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, without internal strife or resistance. According to him, this rare transition should be seen as a blessing, not a threat, provided mutual respect guides the integration process. He asserted that the key to sustaining party unity lies in inclusivity and recognition of longstanding members, cautioning against any attempt to sideline foundational APC stakeholders in the name of political expediency.

Q: Please introduce yourself.

My name is Honourable Ebiakpo Ezebri. I am from Burutu Local Government Area and a pioneer chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State. I am also one of the founding leaders of the party. I served as the Pioneer State Financial Secretary of the APC from 2015 to 2019. Following that, I was elected as the State Treasurer in 2019. I remain an active and committed member of the APC from Burutu Local Government Area. He was a member of the presidential campaign council, PCC and independent campaign council in 2023 elections.

Q: Have you contested any political positions in the past?

Yes, I have. Before the formation of the APC in 2013–2014, I was already active in politics. I was a member of the All-Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), which later merged into the APC. I served as a councillor in my local government from 1999 to 2002. In 2003, I contested for a seat in the Delta State House of Assembly. In 2004, I ran for the chairmanship of the local council. Again in 2007, I contested for the House of Assembly under the ANPP. In 2011, I also ran for office under the same party. Politically, I have consistently contested elections and held several positions. Additionally, I served as the ANPP State Welfare Officer around 2004. Altogether, my political journey has spanned nearly three decades.

Q: So, you’ve been active in politics for about 27 years?

Yes, that’s correct. I’ve been actively involved in politics for about 27 years now.

To be honest, the coalitions you’re referring to — like the rumoured alliances involving Atiku, Obi, and others — don’t have any real traction in Delta State. They may be gaining attention at the national level, but here in Delta, they lack structure, presence, and influence. In Delta South, for example, the only dominant political parties are the PDP and APC. Those other coalitions are practically nonexistent here. They don’t have grassroots support or any real political weight in this state.

So, while the national APC may be addressing those coalitions from a broader perspective, as State Chairman, I would focus on strengthening our base in Delta. My strategy would involve unity, effective mobilization, grassroots engagement, and ensuring that all stakeholders — both old and new — are fully integrated and motivated.

Ultimately, our strength will come from within — not just from countering coalitions, but from being a cohesive, prepared, and well-organized political force. That is what I will work to ensure if allowed to serve as State Chairman.

 "To be honest, the coalitions you’re referring to — like the rumoured alliances involving Atiku, Obi, and others — don’t have any real traction in Delta State. They may be gaining attention at the national level, but here in Delta, they lack structure, presence, and influence. In Delta South, for example, the only dominant political parties are the PDP and APC. Those other coalitions are practically nonexistent here. They don’t have grassroots support or any real political weight in this state.

So, while the national APC may be addressing those coalitions from a broader perspective, as State Chairman, I would focus on strengthening our base in Delta. My strategy would involve unity, effective mobilization, grassroots engagement, and ensuring that all stakeholders — both old and new — are fully integrated and motivated.

Ultimately, our strength will come from within — not just from countering coalitions, but from being a cohesive, prepared, and well-organized political force. That I will work to ensure if allowed to serve as State Chairman.