Elders’ Group Opposes Readmission, Citing Inconsistency; Party Leadership Defends Decision
The return of Chief Great Ogboru to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has deepened divisions within the party, as a group of elders and leaders from Ethiope East Local Government Area, Ogboru’s hometown, has opposed his readmission. The group cited his alleged inconsistency and domineering character as reasons for their rejection.
However, the Delta State chapter of the APC has dismissed the objections, describing them as driven by personal and parochial interests. The party vowed to resist any attempts to undermine its unity and progress, reaffirming Ogboru’s constitutional right to rejoin.
When contacted, the State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo, dismissed the elders’ claims as baseless and an attempt to create unnecessary discord. He emphasized that the APC constitution allows individuals, including former members who pursued political ambitions elsewhere, to rejoin the party.
“The APC constitution does not prohibit any individual from rejoining the party, including those who have previously sought political ambitions through other platforms. Ogboru has the constitutional right to rejoin APC, and his return aligns with the democratic principles guiding the party,” Onojeghuo stated.
The party maintained that it operates an open-door policy, welcoming all progressive-minded individuals committed to its vision for a better Delta State and Nigeria. It condemned the opposition from the Ethiope East elders’ group, stating that no individual or faction has the authority to dictate membership terms.
“It is laughable that a group of individuals without constitutional authority would arrogate to themselves the power to decide membership terms. That privilege remains exclusively with the National Working Committee of the party,” Onojeghuo added.
The party described Ogboru as a major political force in Delta State, whose return would strengthen the APC’s structure and prospects ahead of future political engagements. It also highlighted the ongoing growth of the party in the state, citing a significant influx of defectors from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The APC warned that any attempts to disrupt Ogboru’s re-entry would be considered gross misconduct, with severe disciplinary action to follow. It reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming Ogboru and his supporters back into the party on March 9, 2025, as planned.
The party urged members and stakeholders to disregard divisive rhetoric and focus on building a formidable platform for good governance in Delta State. It also invited all well-meaning stakeholders to participate in the re-entry event, reiterating its dedication to unity and inclusivity within its ranks.