As political alignments begin to shift ahead of the next electoral cycle, emerging developments in Delta State are stirring debate within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reports suggesting that former governor Ifeanyi Okowa may be positioning himself to secure the APC ticket for Delta North Senatorial District have sparked concern among party stakeholders.
Comrade Omonla Itaye, a Policy analyst from Abavo in Delta State, noted that Okowa, who served as the vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 elections, played a prominent role in campaigning against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His reported interest in joining or aligning with the APC has therefore raised questions about ideological consistency and political loyalty within the ruling party.
At the heart of the debate is a perceived contrast in political orientation. The renowned policy analyst argue that while the PDP has traditionally been associated with a more centralized governance approach, the Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda emphasizes structural reforms and a more federalist outlook. And asserted that critics of Okowa’s potential candidacy contend that integrating figures with divergent political histories into the APC fold could pose challenges to policy cohesion.
Itaye also stated that the issue of political trust would also resurfaced in discussions. Reminding that during the build-up to the 2023 elections, Okowa was involved in Southern political consultations that advocated for a power shift to the region, a position that later became contentious following his emergence as Atiku’s running mate. For some APC members, this episode continues to shape perceptions about his political alignment.
Adding, he said attention has also turned to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, amid speculation about his possible role in facilitating new political alliances. While no official confirmation has been made, saying that party insiders say any move that could alter the internal balance within Delta APC would likely attract scrutiny from the national leadership.
Itaye however disclosed that within APC circles, voices are urging caution, emphasizing the need to safeguard party unity and ideological clarity as preparations for future elections gather momentum. Political commentators, including figures such as Babajide Otitoju, Sunday Dare, and Opeyemi Bamidele, are seen as part of a broader network of stakeholders expected to weigh in on the evolving situation.
While Okowa has yet to publicly confirm his intentions regarding the APC ticket, the conversation underscores wider tensions around party identity, political realignment, and the strategic calculations shaping Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
As developments unfold, party leaders are expected to balance inclusivity with internal coherence, ensuring that any new entrants align with the APC’s broader policy direction and electoral objectives.