The political dynamics in Delta State’s Ethiope Federal Constituency have taken a dramatic turn following the defection of Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Seunu from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Representing Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, her move has stirred conversations about its implications for the region’s power-sharing arrangements and her political future.
A History of Power Rotation in Ethiope Constituency
The Ethiope Federal Constituency, comprising Ethiope East and Ethiope West, has long followed a rotational system under the PDP to ensure equitable representation and prevent political friction. This arrangement has seen both regions alternate turns at the House of Representatives seat since 1999.
In the early years, Halims Agoda from Ethiope West first represented the constituency under the All Peoples Party (APP) before switching to the PDP, completing three terms. Following him, Akpodiogaga Emeyese and Loveth Idisi from Ethiope East each served one term under the PDP. Power then returned to Ethiope West, with Ben Igbakpa and subsequently Ibori-Seunu emerging as representatives.
However, with her defection to the APC, this delicate balance appears to be under threat, as stakeholders in Ethiope East insist the seat must return to their region in 2027 for the sake of equity.
Political Motives Behind the Defection
While Ibori-Seunu has yet to publicly declare her intentions for 2027, her defection has fueled speculation that she might seek re-election under the APC’s platform. Some PDP leaders in the constituency view her move as strategic, aiming to secure the APC ticket early enough to outmaneuver opposition.
The PDP in Ethiope East has responded firmly, issuing a communique stressing that the constituency must be represented by someone from their bloc in 2027. The statement highlighted that Ethiope East, the larger and more populous area, has only had eight years of representation compared to Ethiope West’s 20 years.
Impacts on PDP and Delta Politics
Ibori-Seunu’s defection has further weakened the PDP’s influence in Delta Central Senatorial District. With two other federal constituencies in the district—Uvwie/Okpe/Sapele and Ughelli/Udu—already under APC control, the PDP’s hold on the area continues to diminish.
Interestingly, Hon. Ibori-Seunu is the daughter of Chief James Ibori, a two-term governor of Delta State and a founding member of the PDP. Despite his political clout and past influence, Chief Ibori has remained silent about his daughter’s switch to the APC, fueling speculation about his current loyalty to the PDP.
Legal and Political Ramifications
In response to the defection, the PDP has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Warri, seeking to declare Ibori-Seunu’s seat vacant. The party also directed its ward leaders to replace defectors holding executive positions within the PDP immediately.
However, the APC appears poised to leverage this opportunity. If Ibori-Seunu contests again, her financial strength and political network might give her a significant advantage. Ethiope East leaders, meanwhile, are urging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to back their bid for the seat to counterbalance the APC’s growing influence.
The Road Ahead
As the 2027 general elections approach, Ethiope Federal Constituency is set to witness a fierce political battle. Whether the PDP can reclaim its stronghold or the APC consolidates its position will depend on strategic alliances, financial resources, and voter sentiment in the coming years.
For now, one thing is certain: the political stage in Delta State has been reset, and all eyes will be on Ethiope Federal Constituency as it navigates this unfolding drama.
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