ABUJA — The Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence have lauded former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and incumbent Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for their reported defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a bold endorsement of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the group’s Federal Capital Territory Coordinator, Mark Okpanachi Ogah, accompanied by National President Bature Haruna, said the defection — which reportedly includes lawmakers, local government chairmen, and grassroots supporters — is a landmark shift in Nigeria’s political alignment.
“This is not just a political realignment; it is a strategic and symbolic endorsement of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ogah said.
He urged undecided Arewa governors to look beyond partisanship and align with the national vision. He also appealed to suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to reconcile with his political mentor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, calling it an act of wisdom and foresight.
“Wike’s role in Governor Fubara’s emergence is undeniable. Unity of purpose is vital for peace and progress in Rivers State,” Ogah said.
The group encouraged South-South governors — particularly those of Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa — and governors from Oyo, Osun, Enugu, and Abia to follow suit by aligning with President Tinubu’s administration. They cited it as a patriotic move toward national unity and development.
Commending APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje for recent electoral successes under his leadership, Ogah credited the party’s growing influence to strategic leadership and loyalty to Tinubu’s agenda.
“The removal of fuel subsidy has saved trillions and funded key infrastructure. President Tinubu’s administration is already delivering on roads, railways, security, youth empowerment, student loans, and social investments,” Ogah said.
He concluded by calling for political unity nationwide to “fast-track Nigeria’s journey to greatness.”
