By Sir Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi
As the 2027 general elections approach, the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) finds itself at a dangerous crossroads. Rather than consolidating its strength to challenge the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the party is once again consumed by internal strife, betrayals, and factional struggles. These issues, which have plagued the APC in the state for years, are resurfacing at the worst possible time, making victory in 2027 a distant and uncertain goal.
A fundamental problem within the party is the growing division among its leadership, particularly within the State Working Committee (SWC). Instead of operating as a unified body dedicated to party progress, the SWC has fractured into different factions, each aligned with rival political interests. These divisions are largely driven by personal ambition, financial disputes, and the struggle for control. While some members feel sidelined in financial dealings, others have hijacked party resources for their own benefit, fueling bitterness and resentment. These internal conflicts have crippled the party’s ability to function effectively and, more dangerously, have created opportunities for the PDP to exploit APC’s weaknesses once again.
The damage is not limited to the leadership; it has extended to the grassroots. Party loyalists are increasingly aligning themselves with these factions, intensifying the divisions. Some leaders have worsened the situation by welcoming back individuals who openly betrayed the party by supporting PDP’s Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Instead of reinforcing party discipline, they have embraced these defectors in a bid to strengthen their own camps. Others, driven by personal vendettas, have weaponized their influence to undermine potential rivals within the party. The result is an organization that is more focused on internal battles than on preparing for the electoral challenges ahead.
Many believe that the SWC should take the lead in resolving these crises, but this is an unrealistic expectation. Given that the committee itself is at the center of the division, any reconciliation effort it initiates will lack credibility and is bound to fail. The members have already pledged their loyalties to different factions, making genuine peace efforts almost impossible. The only viable solution is for the APC national leadership to intervene. A neutral reconciliation committee, comprising respected party leaders from outside the state, must be set up to assess the situation, bring warring factions to the table, and enforce necessary disciplinary actions. Without such an impartial intervention, the APC in Delta State will remain in turmoil.
Another major concern is the upcoming state convention, which, if poorly handled, could further weaken the party. Rather than being an opportunity to rebuild, the convention is at risk of becoming a battleground for factional interests. If the wrong choices are made in selecting party officials, it will deepen the existing resentment and instability. A chaotic convention will not only weaken the party structure but will also discourage potential candidates and supporters. The APC cannot afford to approach this critical event without ensuring fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in the selection process. A convention that prioritizes internal democracy over personal ambitions is essential to restoring confidence within the party.
Despite these challenges, the APC in Delta State still has a path to redemption. However, urgent and decisive steps must be taken. First, the national leadership must intervene immediately to mediate and resolve the ongoing crisis. Second, the party must enforce strict discipline to prevent further acts of betrayal and internal sabotage. Members who previously worked against the party must not be reintegrated without accountability and assurance of their loyalty. Third, the leadership selection process must be transparent and devoid of factional manipulation. Only credible and competent individuals should be entrusted with party leadership. Fourth, the party must reconnect with its grassroots base, which has been largely neglected due to leadership struggles. A strong grassroots foundation is crucial for mobilizing support ahead of the elections.
Finally, beyond resolving internal disputes, the APC must develop a clear and cohesive strategy for 2027. It needs to select strong candidates, build strategic alliances, and effectively communicate its vision to the electorate.
The Delta State APC is at a defining moment. It can either continue down this path of internal discord, ensuring another electoral defeat, or it can take bold steps to rebuild and unite. The party must decide whether it wants to remain a fractured opposition or rise as a formidable force capable of challenging the PDP. Time is running out, and if the necessary actions are not taken, the journey to electoral victory in 2027 may become an impossible dream.
Sir Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi, KSJI, ASCIEPUK (A public affairs commentator)
