Former Governor of Delta State and ex-vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has defended his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a strategic move made in the best interest of the people of Delta State.
Speaking at a grand reception organized by the national leadership of the APC in Asaba on Monday, Okowa emphasized that the decision was not based on personal gain but driven by the need for the state to secure greater alignment with the federal government.
“It is a great day for us in Delta State,” Okowa told the gathering. “Some may wonder why we’ve chosen to change course, but every generation must recognize when it’s time to pivot — and this is one of those moments.”
The former governor, who served two terms in office under the PDP, noted that working in opposition had cost the state significantly in terms of federal access and benefits.
“I governed for eight years without federal support. I did my best, but the state lost a lot,” he admitted. “Delta contributes immensely to the national economy. It’s only fair that we also benefit from what Abuja has to offer.”
He added that the current Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, was making commendable efforts to improve the state but needed to be “connected to the greater source of power and goodwill in Abuja.”
According to Okowa, the decision was arrived at after extensive consultations with party stakeholders and leaders across the state.
“This move was not about me or the governor alone. It’s about unlocking access and partnerships that will move Delta forward,” he stated.
The defection, which took place last week, saw both Governor Oborevwori and Okowa, along with federal and state lawmakers, formally join the APC. The move has since been described by President Bola Tinubu as a “political tsunami,” given the scale of realignment it has triggered in the region.
