Former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is no longer a viable platform for serious political engagement in the state, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a bold and unapologetic statement, Okowa confirmed his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the move was strategic and necessary.
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV, Okowa cited internal leadership issues within the PDP and a growing disconnect from national political realities as key reasons for the switch.
“We are a political family in Delta State. Previously, we were in the PDP, but various issues within the party’s leadership have led us to believe that it is not a viable vehicle for our political aspirations heading into the 2027 elections,” Okowa said.
The former governor, who served as Vice Presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2023 elections, didn’t hold back in criticising those questioning his loyalty or decision to jump ship.
“Sen. Bukola Saraki has, in the past, defected from the PDP to the APC and back to the PDP. Therefore, he has no moral right to speak against my defection to the APC,” he fired back, calling for consistency and fairness in political commentary.
Okowa explained that the decision to join the APC was not an isolated one but a collective stance by his political structure in Delta State.
“It seems the PDP is not prepared to be competitive in the upcoming elections,” he asserted. “We joined the APC to align with Abuja and ensure that Delta is not left behind in national politics.”