Mass Exodus looms in Delta APC as Ochei dumps party

A fresh political storm may be brewing within the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the resignation of former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor Ochei, from the ruling party.

It would be recalled that former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, resigned from the party,  citing recent developments within the party in Delta State which he said no longer align with his political objectives and the interests of his constituents.

Ochei, in a strongly worded resignation statement released on Wednesday, announced his decision to quit the APC after what he described as “deep reflections and wide consultations,” raising concerns that more aggrieved members may soon abandon the party amid dissatisfaction surrounding internal party affairs and recent primaries.

The former lawmaker, who joined the APC in 2016, said he devoted nearly a decade to building and strengthening the party across different levels, stressing that he played a major role in expanding its grassroots structures and political relevance within Delta State.

According to him, his decision to leave was not driven by bitterness or personal hostility, but by the need to pursue a new political direction anchored on fairness, inclusion, mutual respect and service to the people.

“After deep reflections and wide consultations, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to formally resign my membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and move on to continue my political journey elsewhere,” Ochei stated.

Reflecting on his years in the APC, Ochei noted that he joined the party with sincerity and a genuine belief in its vision, adding that he worked alongside loyal party members to strengthen its structures, mobilise support across communities and encourage youth and women participation in politics.

He also emphasized that his commitment to leadership and grassroots development predated many individuals who currently hold influential positions within the party.

“Long before many who currently occupy positions within the party joined the political family they now belong to, I had already committed myself to the ideals of leadership, service, grassroots development, and the pursuit of a better society for our people,” he said.

READ ALSO: Tinubu’s daughter decries alleged irregularities in Lagos APC primaries

The former Speaker, however, hinted at growing internal dissatisfaction within the APC, stressing that political institutions must evolve to reflect fairness, inclusion and the aspirations of the people.

“Leadership must continually evolve to reflect inclusion, mutual respect, fairness, and the aspirations of the people. It is in recognition of this need for broader growth and the continuation of my political convictions that I have chosen to chart a new course,” he added.

Ochei’s resignation is already generating political reactions within Delta State, with observers warning that the development could trigger further defections from the APC, especially among members reportedly dissatisfied with the conduct of recent party primaries and internal power struggles.

Political analysts believe the exit of a prominent figure like Ochei could weaken the APC’s cohesion in Delta State ahead of future political contests, particularly if other aggrieved stakeholders decide to follow suit.

Despite his departure, Ochei expressed gratitude to supporters, party leaders and associates who stood by him throughout his political journey in the APC, urging his followers to remain peaceful and committed to democratic ideals.

“As I move forward to continue my political journey from the APC, I do so with hope, renewed determination, and faith in the future,” he stated.