Former Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has revealed the reasons he dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Okowa said his decision was to ensure stronger ties between Delta State and the Federal Government.

Speaking on Monday at a rally in Asaba organised to welcome him and the Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, into the APC, Okowa dismissed suggestions that the move was for personal gain.

“Today is a great day for us in Delta State,” Okowa said. “The decision to change our political path was made for the common good of our people, not for personal interests.”

He explained that Delta, a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy, needed a direct connection to the Federal Government to access resources and goodwill necessary for development.

“I was governor for eight years under the opposition. I did my best, but we lost a lot. We cannot afford to stay disconnected from Abuja,” he said.

Okowa noted that the decision was made after extensive consultations with party leaders and stakeholders. He described the move as bold, strategic, and in the best interest of Delta State.

“It is time for us to stand together in great support for Mr President and Mr Governor. Together, we can truly dominate the politics in Delta,” he added.

The former PDP vice presidential candidate praised Oborevwori for leading the defection and urged all Deltans to rally behind the new political direction.

“We are a great state and a great people. Now we have made the right decision, a bold one, in the best interest of us all,” he said.

Meanwhile, in support of the defections by Okowa and the governor, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, announced on Sunday that the APC structure in Delta is now fully under Oborevwori’s control.