Tinubu Wades Into Delta APC Rift, Orders Oborevwori To Broker Peace
Presidential Intervention at Iftar
EMERGING details from the Presidential Villa indicate that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stepped into the escalating political tensions in Delta State, directing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to reconcile rival factions within the state’s political structure.
The development reportedly occurred during a Ramadan Iftar hosted by the President for state governors. According to sources familiar with the gathering, Tinubu used the informal setting to address concerns about the growing rift in Delta politics, particularly following contentious ward and local government congresses.
Witnesses claim that as the President prepared to depart, he directly confronted Oborevwori over the situation.
“Sheriff, I hear you are causing trouble in Delta. Why are you fighting Ibori’s daughter? Don’t you know Ibori is my friend? Go back to Delta and fix it up,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.
Ibori Factor and Party Tensions
At the heart of the crisis are allegations of marginalisation involving loyalists of former Governor James Ibori, a longstanding political ally of the President. The controversy reportedly centers around parallel congresses and leadership disputes within the party’s Delta chapter, with members of the “Old Guard” resisting what they describe as attempts to sideline them from key positions.
Particular attention has focused on Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Ibori’s daughter, whose perceived exclusion from party structures has become symbolic of the broader struggle between established political figures and emerging power blocs aligned with the current administration in the state.
Political observers note that Tinubu’s public reference to his personal relationship with Ibori underscores the seriousness with which the Presidency views the dispute.
Beyond a Local Affair
Although Governor Oborevwori attended the Villa event as part of routine state engagements, the President’s pointed remarks suggest that the Delta impasse has now drawn national attention.
Insiders warn that unresolved divisions within Delta’s political class could weaken party cohesion ahead of future electoral cycles. The Presidency is said to be concerned that prolonged infighting may erode grassroots support and create openings for opposition forces.
Call for Reconciliation
Sources close to the matter suggest the President’s directive was unambiguous: integrate the various factions, restore internal balance, and prevent the dispute from spiraling further.
Analysts argue that Oborevwori faces a delicate balancing act—maintaining authority within the state while accommodating influential stakeholders tied to the Ibori political dynasty.
As Delta’s leadership tussle simmers, Tinubu’s intervention may serve as both a warning and an opportunity: a warning against deepening factionalism, and an opportunity to forge unity before divisions harden beyond repair.
