Atiku Abubakar's Controversy with Running Mate, Ifeanyi Okowa
Atiku Abubakar's team criticizes Okowa over his remark concerning the 2023 presidential election
According to insider reports, former vice president Atiku Abubakar is reportedly feeling betrayed by his 2023 presidential election running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, following the latter's comments about regret on live TV.
It appears that Okowa, during a national TV interview, expressed remorse over his decision to run as a vice president under Atiku. He expressed concerns about the stance of the public in not backing another northerner as the President, a sentiment that was pervasive in his home state of Delta.
Sources within Atiku's inner circle and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have indicated that the former vice president was shocked by Okowa's statement, given the considerable pressure Atiku faced to choose the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as his running mate instead of Okowa.
Atiku's camp sees Okowa's remarks as a self-serving political move, disguised as nationalism. They believe that Okowa is sowing discord between Atiku and the PDP to aid the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections, despite his prior advantages within the PDP.
One source commented, "The situation has left everyone disappointed. We acknowledge that Damagun's leadership has weakened the party, leaving it vulnerable to setbacks. Secondly, regardless of the pressure he faced, Okowa should have remained cautious about sharing his negative sentiments publicly. His public declarations may be seen as damaging, dismissive, and ultimately irresponsible.
"We worry that Okowa's actions could be a sign of poor judgment. He should have initiated a quiet departure from the party if he felt it was necessary, instead of undermining the PDP and its candidate on live television."
Additional Insights
According to Okowa's remarks, his regret stemmed from a perceived misalignment between his personal and local sentiments on the north-south power divide. Okowa noted an increase in political support for the APC in Delta, potentially indicating a shift in political alliances in the region.
The impact of this situation on the PDP is significant, as it highlights the fragile internal dynamics and regional differences within the party that can compromise party unity and performance in elections.
You may also enjoy
*** South-East Should Join APC to Connect to the Center - Gov UzodimmaFor South-East, Consider Atiku over 2027, Onu Advises Peter ObiAPC Amps Up Efforts to Take Abia in 2027, Kalu Advocates for UnityTension Rises Over Registration of PDP Defectors in Delta APCLawmaker Explains Why he Switched to APC***Northern Governor Speaks Up on APC Defection Plot
The controversy between Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa, his running mate, could potentially impact the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their policy-and-legislation efforts, as Okowa's public remorse over his decision to run as a vice president under Atiku could be seen as damaging and irresponsible.
Okowa's remarks may indicate a shift in political alliances in his home state of Delta, with an increase in support for the All Progressives Congress (APC). This could have significant implications for the general news landscape and politics in the region.
In light of these developments, Governors and political leaders from various regions are advocating for unity and partnership within their parties, acknowledging the importance of policy-and-legislation initiatives for the country.
