The Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence has praised former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the current governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for their significant decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), along with members of the House of Assembly, local government chairmen, party leaders, and supporters. Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, the group encouraged Arewa governors who remain undecided to prioritize national interests over partisanship by aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision. Mark Okpanachi Ogah, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Coordinator for Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence, addressed the media alongside National President Bature Haruna, and urged the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, to reconnect with his political mentor and FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, emphasizing the importance of political wisdom and foresight. Okpanachi remarked that political legacies are best maintained through loyalty, dialogue, and a unified purpose. He stated, ‘Wike’s crucial role in Governor Fubara’s rise cannot be overlooked in any honest recounting of recent political events. Thus, it is both strategic and commendable for Governor Fubara to seek reconciliation and establish a united front for the peace and advancement of Rivers State and the nation as a whole.’ Regarding the significant defection of Delta State PDP members to the APC, Okpanachi characterized this shift as a homecoming that transcends mere political realignment. ‘This is a strategic and symbolic endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Your choice signifies a profound commitment to national advancement, unity, and a collective aspiration to guide Nigeria towards sustainable development. We warmly welcome you into the progressive family. Delta is home, and together, we will construct a brighter future for our great nation.
The organization also called upon other states in the South-South region, especially the Governors of Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa, to embrace this commendable initiative. Your recognition of the President’s achievements is valued; it is now essential to fully support his transformative vision by joining the progressive coalition. Furthermore, we extend this request to the Governors of Oyo and Osun States. As fellow compatriots of President Tinubu, it is appropriate to directly endorse his developmental efforts by aligning with his political agenda. Similarly, we encourage the Governors of Enugu and Abia to prioritize the collective welfare and join the Renewed Hope movement. We would like to take this opportunity to commend the APC Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, for his exemplary leadership since taking office. One of the notable and decisive traits of the National Chairman is his ability to secure electoral victories. For instance, during his tenure, the APC has successfully won four out of five off-season elections in the nation. This accomplishment highlights his strategic insight and organizational effectiveness. Additionally, his unwavering commitment to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is praiseworthy. This dedication has attracted many opposition parties to the APC, as evidenced by the current trend of defections to the party nationwide, marking a historic occurrence. The group also asserted that the elimination of the fuel subsidy has resulted in savings of trillions of naira for the country, allowing for a reallocation of funds towards infrastructure development. Among the other accomplishments of President Tinubu’s administration, Okpanachi noted the unification of the foreign exchange market, enhancement of investor confidence, extensive road, rail, and coastal highway initiatives, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Additional achievements include security enhancements through improved intelligence and military resources, youth empowerment initiatives, digital skills training, the implementation of student loans for higher education, and social investment programs aimed at supporting the populace.
