The spokesperson to former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, has clarified that his principal never, at any point, regretted being the vice-presidential candidate alongside Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 general elections. The statement comes amid swirling political commentaries suggesting that Okowa may have expressed misgivings about his decision to run on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential ticket as Atiku’s running mate.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, the Delta State capital, Ifeajika described such reports as “false, misleading, and entirely speculative,” stressing that Okowa remains proud of the role he played in the 2023 elections and holds no regrets about his decision to support the PDP’s presidential ambition.
Standing by Principles and the Party
According to Ifeajika, Okowa’s decision to accept the vice-presidential slot was driven by a deep commitment to national development and the ideals of the Peoples Democratic Party, not personal ambition or desperation for power. He emphasized that Okowa was fully aware of the political complexities involved in the election but nonetheless embraced the challenge out of a sense of duty and loyalty.
“Governor Okowa knew what he was stepping into. He accepted to run with His Excellency Atiku Abubakar after wide consultations and a deep conviction that they represented the best option for Nigeria at the time,” Ifeajika said. “There is no room for regret. He gave it his all, stood by the party, campaigned across the country, and acted in the best interests of the nation.”
Ifeajika dismissed the narrative being pushed by some political opponents that Okowa’s alliance with Atiku was a political misstep, insisting that the Delta-born politician remains proud of his role in the campaign and continues to be an active contributor to political discourse in Nigeria.
The 2023 Elections and Aftermath
The 2023 presidential election was one of Nigeria’s most contentious and closely watched democratic exercises. Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president and veteran politician, ran on the platform of the PDP with Okowa as his running mate. Although the ticket failed to clinch victory, the campaign was notable for its widespread mobilization, inclusive messaging, and emphasis on national unity.
Despite the eventual loss, Ifeajika said that Okowa has remained steadfast in his commitment to the party’s ideals and his belief in the need for electoral reforms and improved governance structures.
“Leadership is not always about winning elections. It is about standing firm for what you believe in and being on the right side of history,” he said. “Governor Okowa is not one to shy away from responsibility, and he has never, for once, looked back with regret.”
Addressing Political Critics
In recent months, political commentators and some internal party critics have speculated that Okowa’s decision to accept the vice-presidential ticket may have strained his political standing in the South-South and Southeast regions. Some have alleged that his choice to align with Atiku, rather than supporting a Southern presidential candidate, particularly from the Southeast, caused discontent among regional stakeholders.
However, Ifeajika was quick to debunk such assertions, stating that Okowa’s decision was never about undermining the South but rather about uniting the country and strengthening the PDP’s chances.
“The idea that Okowa betrayed the South is both unfair and inaccurate. He did what he believed was right for Nigeria. Politics is about building bridges, not burning them,” Ifeajika stressed. “He worked tirelessly to promote unity, equity, and fairness during the campaign. Those who claim he is politically weakened are simply peddling unfounded rumors.”
Okowa’s Continued Relevance
Despite the outcome of the 2023 election, Ifeajika made it clear that Okowa remains a key figure in Nigerian politics. As a two-time governor and a former senator, Okowa’s experience and influence remain intact. He continues to engage with national issues and party affairs, playing a critical advisory role within the PDP.
“Governor Okowa is not just a former vice-presidential candidate. He is a respected statesman, a medical doctor, and a leader who has made significant contributions to the development of Delta State and Nigeria,” said Ifeajika. “He remains active in policy discussions, political mentoring, and party-building efforts.”
He also added that Okowa’s legacy as governor of Delta State, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development, youth empowerment, education, and health, speaks for itself and continues to earn him respect across political divides.
PDP’s Internal Unity and the Way Forward
Responding to questions about the state of the PDP following the 2023 elections, Ifeajika called for unity and a renewed sense of purpose among party members. He acknowledged the challenges the party faced, including internal divisions and strategic misalignments, but said the PDP remains a viable platform for democratic development in Nigeria.
“It’s time to stop the blame game and focus on rebuilding,” he said. “The PDP is still very much alive. Leaders like Governor Okowa are ready to support the party in regaining the confidence of Nigerians.”
He urged all PDP stakeholders to come together to re-strategize, rebuild public trust, and present a united front ahead of future electoral contests.
Conclusion
Mr. Olisa Ifeajika’s firm rebuttal of claims that Okowa regrets running with Atiku in the 2023 presidential elections underscores the former governor’s loyalty to the PDP and his dedication to national service. Far from being a political liability, the vice-presidential run is seen by Okowa’s camp as a demonstration of his readiness to serve at the highest level and his unwavering belief in the democratic process.
As Nigeria moves forward from the 2023 elections, figures like Okowa remain integral to shaping the country’s political direction. His example of principled politics, as emphasized by his spokesperson, serves as a reminder that in the complex terrain of Nigerian governance, conviction and consistency still matter.
