By Our Reporter
Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, has clarified the reasons behind his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside current Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Speaking at an event held at the Cenotaph in Asaba on Monday, where they were formally received into the APC, Okowa explained that the move was driven by the desire to prioritize the welfare of the people of Delta State.
Okowa stressed that a crucial part of any community’s history is the moment it must change direction for the greater good. He asserted that this shift was made with the ultimate aim of benefiting the state and its residents. “There is always a time in the history of a people to change their path for the common good,” he said, reflecting on the decision.
The former governor emphasized that the shift to the APC was necessary for Delta State to better connect with the federal government, especially in terms of accessing resources and goodwill from Abuja. “As I mentioned during my defection, this was never about me or the governor; it was about the need to link Delta to the federal government,” Okowa remarked.
He added that while his eight years as governor in opposition were filled with efforts, Delta State lost much in terms of resources. “We lost a lot in the opposition, and it was clear that a change was necessary for the benefit of the state,” Okowa said, expressing full support for Governor Oborevwori’s efforts while recognizing the need for him to align with the central government.
Okowa characterized the defection as a “strategic, bold, and patriotic” step and called for unity within the APC ranks. He urged party members to work cohesively to strengthen the APC in the state. “We must stand united for the benefit of Delta. This move will strengthen the APC, and we must come together as one family,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori, Okowa, and other members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State made the announcement of their defection to the APC last week.