Ukodhiko: Delta PDP Defection To APC Rooted In Political Strategy.

The Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has described the recent mass defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State as a bold and strategic step aimed at safeguarding the state’s political future.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Lunch Time Politics, Ukodhiko said the decision to join the APC was made after careful consideration and in the best interest of the state.

According to the lawmaker, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s move demonstrates leadership and a commitment to the collective interests of Deltans, rather than personal gain.

“Looking at the broader picture, the Governor is doing very well, as many have acknowledged. However, to secure the political future of the state, he had to make a decisive move that would carry everyone along,” Ukodhiko stated.

He noted that many political analysts have evaluated the national political climate and its implications for the PDP, observing that the party currently lacks a viable structure at the federal level.

“If I ask you today who the National Secretary of the PDP is, you probably wouldn’t know. That says a lot about the party’s current state,” he added. “Why would anyone want to remain in a party that has no clear future?”

Responding to questions about former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s alleged issues with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ukodhiko dismissed any connection between the defection and the former governor.

“The decision by the entire Delta State PDP to move to the APC is solely about securing the future of every Deltan, myself included,” he emphasized.

“As a representative of the Isoko Federal Constituency, we were uncertain about our political direction until this move was made.”

He explained that the governor responded to widespread concerns among stakeholders who repeatedly questioned the political future of the state.

“We needed to be in a place that offered stability and a better outlook for the state’s development. That’s why we chose the APC. It’s about the future, not about any individual,” Ukodhiko said.

He also pointed out that the state has been in opposition for the past ten years, a situation that he believes is no longer sustainable.

“We can’t continue to remain in the opposition, especially when the President has shown genuine love to Delta State. Let’s not forget that the First Lady is also from Delta. It would be unwise to stay disconnected from the center.”

Ukodhiko stressed the importance of being part of the ruling party to gain better access to federal support and influence national policies that affect the state.

“We can’t continue to rely solely on FAAC allocations. For effective policy implementation and development, we need the support of the federal government,” he said.

He further highlighted projects that the state government intends to undertake in collaboration with the federal government, including improvements in port infrastructure, electricity, and other critical sectors.

“Now that we are aligned with the federal government, we are in a better position to attract these developments and ensure meaningful progress for Delta State,” Ukodhiko stated.