ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described the defection of former Delta State Governor and 2023 PDP vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a bold and strategic decision, while sharply criticizing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for failing to foresee the development.
Speaking during his monthly media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike expressed astonishment that the PDP leadership was caught off guard by Okowa’s move, calling it a reflection of the party’s deteriorating internal structure and lack of foresight.
“I’m surprised that PDP said they didn’t see it coming,” Wike said. “I warned them, but they dismissed it. Let’s see what happens now.”
He praised Okowa as a seasoned politician who chose to act with clarity rather than pretense, highlighting that his decision to openly support President Bola Tinubu demonstrated political honesty—unlike others who, according to Wike, attempt to play both sides.
“He said he was going to support the President. That’s the crime? Yet, the PDP Board of Trustees Chairman endorsed a Labour Party governor for a second term, and no one is talking about that.”
Wike defended Okowa’s move as an act of integrity and dismissed critics who have questioned the defection. He said the former Delta governor made a clear choice rather than engaging in silent betrayal.
“Okowa said, ‘I won’t pretend. I won’t be here and secretly support someone else.’ That’s a smart politician.”
The FCT Minister, known for his outspoken views and recent clashes with his former party, used the opportunity to reiterate concerns about the PDP’s weakening leadership, adding that the party’s inability to address internal issues could cost it dearly ahead of the 2027 elections.
“If you don’t show leadership, you suffer for it. This is what I’ve been saying. When a sitting governor, his deputy, and their team all leave the PDP, that’s not just a decision—it’s a statement.”
Okowa’s defection marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s political dynamics, intensifying the pressure on the PDP and signaling growing momentum within the APC as realignments continue ahead of the next electoral cycle.
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