Former Delta State Governor and recent PDP vice presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, has shared why he and other leaders decided to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). He spoke on Monday during a grand reception hosted by the APC’s national leadership to welcome the new members in Delta State.
Okowa said the decision was made to serve the best interest of the people and ensure the state benefits more from the federal government. He explained that governing for eight years without support from the presidency was a major challenge. This, he said, made it vital for the current administration to connect with the center.
“It’s a significant day for us in Delta State,” Okowa said. “When news broke on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, that we had changed course, many were surprised. But in every people’s history, a time comes when change is necessary for the common good.
“Our decision focused on what benefits Delta the most. It wasn’t about me or the governor. We saw the need to align with Abuja — to access goodwill, resources, and opportunities. Delta contributes significantly to the nation’s wealth, and we must also benefit from that.”
Okowa recalled his time in office as a governor in opposition. “I served for eight years and gave my best,” he said. “But we lost a lot because we lacked federal support. Governor Sheriff is doing a great job, and we fully support him. However, he needs to link up with the central government to deliver more.”
He noted that after a stakeholders’ meeting, they agreed the time was right to make the switch.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Okowa, and several lawmakers recently left the PDP and officially joined the ruling APC.
