By OBSERVERS TIMES.
A former Commissioner for Education in Delta State, Dr. Tony Nwaka, has observed that individuals who previously criticized his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) over four years ago, including former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, are now members of the same party.
Nwaka, who served during the administration of former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, made this statement on Friday, commenting on the recent shift of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Okowa, and other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in the state to the APC.
He recalled facing ridicule and pressure to leave the APC after his public support for the party during the lead-up to the 2023 general elections.
“It was the sole APC billboard visible across key roads in Asaba, the Delta State capital, preceding the 2022 APC primary elections and the 2023 general elections,” Nwaka stated.
“The caption, ‘YOU KNOW ME, I KNOW YOU,’ became a common phrase in casual conversations. I also had billboards at the airport junction, Ibusa Junction, Cable Point, Midwifery Junction, and other locations.”
“I was subjected to mockery. ‘Hahaha! Look at Nwaka, he’s joined the APC,’ ‘Nwaka’s carrying a broom,’ ‘Doesn’t he feel ashamed? His are the only APC banners in Asaba.'”
“I heard it all. Some relatives even called, saying, ‘Tony, brother, haven’t you made a mistake? Please remove those APC banners and return to the PDP.'”
Despite the criticism and the removal of some of his campaign materials, Nwaka remained steadfast in his commitment to the APC, even after the election and subsequent appointments.
“Imagine my satisfaction today, seeing APC flags, banners, and billboards throughout Asaba. Isn’t it remarkable?” he remarked.
Nwaka, a former chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Area, encouraged politicians to maintain their focus, even when isolated, emphasizing that divine purpose, not popular opinion, shapes the future.
