By OBSERVERS TIMES
Ifeanyi Okowa, former governor of Delta State and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has stated that his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not motivated by personal gain but by a commitment to the welfare of the state.
Speaking at a rally in Asaba on Monday, organized by the APC to welcome him and Sheriff Oborevwori, the current governor of Delta State, Okowa expressed optimism about the future. “Today is a significant day for us in Delta State,” he declared.
Following the announcement of his party switch on April 23, 2025, many questioned the rationale behind the decision. Okowa emphasized the importance of evolving for the greater good: “In the history of a people, there comes a time to change paths for the common good.”
He explained that his move to the APC was primarily driven by the need for Delta State to establish a stronger connection with the federal government in Abuja, where the state is a significant contributor. “We need to connect with the goodwill, resources, and opportunities available in Abuja,” Okowa stated.
Reflecting on his eight years as governor under the PDP, Okowa acknowledged the challenges faced while in opposition: “I did my best, but we lost a lot. The governor needs to connect to the greater source of power and resources in Abuja.”
Okowa clarified that the decision to join the APC was made after extensive consultations with PDP leaders and stakeholders. “This move is bold, strategic, patriotic, and well-intentioned. It was made in the best interest of our state,” he asserted.
He urged party members to rally behind President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, asserting that their collaboration would strengthen the APC’s political presence in Delta State. “Together, we can dominate the politics in Delta State,” he said.
Okowa expressed confidence that the decision would yield positive outcomes for the state. “We believe this move will bring great results, and we will extend our hands to our brothers in other states,” he added.
In closing, Okowa thanked Oborevwori for his leadership and reaffirmed their collective commitment to the decision made. “We trust you and believe in the choices we’ve made for the betterment of Delta State,” he concluded.
On April 23, Oborevwori and several other prominent PDP figures in Delta State defected to the APC. Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, announced on Sunday that the APC structure in Delta is now fully under the governor’s leadership.
