The former Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa has clarified that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by a desire to better connect Delta State with the political power in Abuja.
Okowa, along with his predecessor Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and members of his cabinet, made the switch from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC last week. This move sent shockwaves through the PDP, as the party lost control of the oil-rich state, which it had governed since 1999, to the ruling APC.
Speaking at the APC’s welcome ceremony for the defectors on Monday, Okowa emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of Delta State. He noted that it was essential for the state to be aligned with the federal government to tap into the opportunities, resources, and goodwill that are centered in Abuja.
“When the news broke on Wednesday that we had decided to change our path, people wondered why,” Okowa explained. “But there are times in a people’s history when it is necessary to change direction for the common good. This was not about me or the governor; it was about ensuring that Delta State connects to the resources and goodwill available in Abuja — resources that Delta State, as a major contributor, deserves access to.”
Reflecting on his tenure as governor, Okowa admitted that being in opposition had its drawbacks. He stated that Delta State lost out on various benefits because it was not aligned with the ruling party at the federal level. “During my eight years as governor, we were in opposition. We did our best, but we lost a lot. I believe the governor should not work in isolation, no matter how hard he tries. We need to connect to the greater sources of power and resources in Abuja,” Okowa said.
He urged members of the APC in Delta State to embrace the new leadership and work together to ensure the party’s dominance in the state.
Okowa also called on the people of Delta State to offer their support to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stressing that it was time for the state to stand strong in backing both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.