Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has stirred political speculation by expressing hope that former Governor James Ibori may eventually defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Oborevwori made the remark on Tuesday, April 29, during a vigil mass in honour of the late former Deputy Governor, Professor Amos Utuama, held at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Otu-Jeremi, Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The comment comes just days after both Governor Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa formally joined the APC — a political shift that has reportedly shaken the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the national level. The possibility of James Ibori’s defection to APC could further impact the political balance in Delta State and beyond.
At the memorial service, Governor Oborevwori praised the late Utuama’s legacy and urged political unity among Urhobo leaders. He described the former deputy governor as a man of integrity and vision who remained dedicated to the people and to his faith.
He recalled one of Utuama’s notable acts of generosity: “While serving as Deputy Governor, he was allocated a plot of land in Asaba. Rather than keep it, he gave it to the Catholic Church and even contributed funds for building a church. That’s what I call a lasting investment in heaven.”
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The governor also prayed that the late Utuama’s death would serve as a rallying point for greater unity across the Urhobo region.
Speaking during the service, the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ewherido, honoured Utuama’s life and legacy. He urged the political class to continue working together for the peace and progress of Delta State. The Bishop also reminded attendees that death marks a transition to eternal life, not an end, and encouraged the faithful to live purposefully.
Utuama’s son, Ovie Utuama, speaking on behalf of the family, thanked those in attendance and asked for continued prayers during their time of mourning.
The event, though solemn, also sparked renewed political discussion, especially after Governor Oborevwori greeted James Ibori warmly during the service. With Ibori’s continued influence in Delta politics, talks about James Ibori defection to APC could significantly reshape political alliances in Delta State ahead of future elections.
