Former Governor of Delta State and 2023 Vice Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political shift in Delta State.

 

Okowa made the announcement on Monday in Asaba during a high-profile event that also saw the defection of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and several other PDP leaders to the ruling APC.

 

Describing the move as one made in the best interest of Delta State, Okowa said, “Today is a great day for us in Delta State. When the news broke out on Wednesday, the 23rd of April, 2025, that we have decided to change our path, people wondered why. But… there is always a time to change for the common good of a people.”

 

He emphasized that the decision was not driven by personal ambitions but by the need to realign the state politically with the federal government. “It was not about personal ambitions but the need to connect to Abuja, where significant goodwill and resources exist, especially since the State is a major contributor,” Okowa explained.

 

Reflecting on his time as governor in opposition, Okowa noted that while current Governor Oborevwori had made notable strides, better synergy with the central government would further benefit Delta State.

 

He called for unity in support of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, asserting that this alignment would solidify the state’s political dominance.

 

The defection event was attended by top political figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, 16 APC governors led by Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma, as well as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.