Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has defended his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling the move a bold and necessary decision for the future of Delta State.
Speaking on Monday, April 28, during a formal reception ceremony at the Cenotaph in Asaba, Okowa explained that the decision came after deep reflection and extensive consultations with political stakeholders in the state.
He said: “People wondered why, but one thing is very important: in the history of a people, there is always a time to change their path for the common good.
“Whatever decision we took was based on that common good and the need to change our path in the best interest of our state.”
Okowa, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023 under the PDP, acknowledged the sacrifices made during his time in opposition but pointed out that the lack of alignment with the federal government had cost the state valuable opportunities.
“I was governor for eight years; I was in opposition. I did my best, but we lost a lot. I did not believe that the governor needed to continue working very hard without the needed support,” he said.
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He further argued that by aligning with the ruling party, Delta State would be better positioned to access resources and goodwill concentrated in Abuja.
The former governor emphasised that his decision was not driven by personal ambition but by a collective desire to ensure the state’s progress. “The decision is bold, strategic, patriotic, and well-intentioned,” Okowa said.
He also called for unity within the APC, urging both new and old members to set aside differences and work towards the state’s development.
Okowa expressed optimism that the realignment would strengthen the APC’s position in Delta State and predicted the party’s dominance in future elections.
“We must defend our state. Our state stands far beyond us. It is time for us to embrace each other, our brothers and sisters who were already in the APC, and those of us who have come into the family. We need to work with the oneness of heart,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Okowa expressed optimism that the APC’s new alignment would make the party a dominant force in Delta State, ensuring no other party could challenge its influence.