Okowa regrets VP candidacy, defends defection to APC
Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa says he regrets accepting the vice-presidential nomination under Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election, admitting it went against the wishes of his people.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday, Okowa said the decision by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to field another northern candidate after President Muhammadu Buhari did not sit well with southern Nigerians. He admitted that this misalignment contributed to the PDP’s loss in Delta during the presidential poll.
“In retrospect, I believe I should have listened to the sentiments of my people,” Okowa stated, noting that despite the setback, the PDP won 21 out of 25 local government areas in the subsequent governorship election — proof, he said, of continued support for his leadership.
He defended his track record as governor, citing infrastructure projects and free healthcare initiatives. Okowa also expressed confidence in the performance of his successor, Sheriff Oborevwori.
On his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Okowa said the move followed wide consultations in Delta and was necessary to improve the state’s access to federal support. He denied rumors that he defected to evade corruption charges, insisting he has no case to answer.
“The EFCC only invited me, and I honoured the invitation. I’ve never been arrested,” he said, dismissing claims that he sought forgiveness from APC leaders like Adams Oshiomhole.
Okowa also voiced support for President Bola Tinubu to complete his eight-year term, citing national stability as a priority before the presidency returns to the north.
