Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has explained why he and current Governor Sheriff Oborevwori left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling the move a strategic step taken in the best interest of Delta State.
Speaking during a formal defection ceremony at the Cenotaph in Asaba on Monday, Okowa said the decision was driven by the need for Delta State to align more closely with the federal government and access more resources and support from Abuja.
“There comes a time when a people must change direction for the common good,” Okowa said. “This decision was made not for personal reasons but for the benefit of our state.”
He noted that during his eight years as governor in opposition, Delta State missed out on federal support, and emphasized the importance of the current administration having better access to national resources.
“We believe Governor Oborevwori is doing a lot, but he also needs federal support to succeed. That’s why, after consulting with stakeholders, we decided this move was necessary,” he added, describing the decision as “bold, strategic, patriotic, and well-intentioned.”
Okowa called for unity within the APC and urged both old and new members to work together to strengthen the party in Delta State.
“This is about the future of Delta,” he said. “With this move, I believe no other party can challenge the APC here.”
Okowa, Oborevwori, and other PDP members in Delta State formally defected to the APC last week.