Okowa Expresses Regret Over Vice-Presidential Bid With Atiku, Critiques Saraki’s Commentary
Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Governor of Delta State, has expressed regret over his decision to run as the vice-presidential candidate alongside Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election. In an interview on Arise Television, he described his acceptance of the role as a misalignment with the sentiments of the people of Delta State, a matter he has deeply contemplated.
“During the campaign, I realized that our people were not keen on having another northerner in power. However, the decision had already been made at the federal level by the PDP, and I was nominated. In hindsight, I believe I should have prioritized the will of my constituents,” he stated.
Okowa also responded to former Senate President Bukola Saraki’s criticism of his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He argued that Saraki lacks the moral authority to comment on his defection, given his own past political switching.
“I did not expect Senator Bukola Saraki, who has also moved between parties, to speak concerning my situation. He has had his share of political movements, and thus lacks the moral standing to criticize my defection,” Okowa remarked.
He emphasized that his decision to leave the PDP was not made lightly, but rather stemmed from collective discussions among key political figures in Delta State. This move was driven by ongoing internal conflicts and a perceived lack of strategic direction within the PDP.
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“Several issues have arisen within the party. While I do not wish to engage in disputes, our leaders have evaluated recent events and concluded that the PDP is not the appropriate political vehicle for our continued efforts,” Okowa noted.
He cited the resistance among PDP governors to form coalitions and the ongoing leadership crises as clear indicators that the opposition party is ill-prepared for serious political competition in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
