PDP VP Candidacy: Attacks On Okowa, Unnecessary – UYLA

The Urhobo Youth Leaders’ Association, UYLA has described as unnecessary the recent outburst of the Southern and Middle Belt leaders against the Governor of Delta State, Sen Dr Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa over his nomination as the Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP.

In a press statement signed by UYLA’s President, Olorogun Anthony Onoriode Ofoni and Secretary, Olorogun Augustine Ogheneovo Atiti after an emergency meeting in Effurun on Monday, 20th June, 2022, called on the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Afenifere to have a rethink, rescind the unfair criticism of Okowa as a traitor and support the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Okowa’s ticket for peace, unity, fairness, justice, development, love and progress of Nigeria.

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UYLA observed that it was true that the Southern Governors earlier canvased and urged the major political parties in Nigeria to zone their Presidential tickets to the region, but Okowa was not solely responsible for the processes leading to the selection. The Association further reasoned Okowa couldn’t have influenced the delegates from the South East not to vote for Eastern contestants.

UYLA was of the view that instead of vilifying Okowa, he should be commended for his patriotism. In the past seven years as Governor of Delta State, according to the Association, Okowa has put in a lot of energy and resources to foster peace, security and good democratic values, which clearly demonstrates his patriotic zeal and support in the restoration of peace and security in the Niger Delta region.

UYLA described Okowa as a fine gentleman, experienced, tested, trusted and optimist in the future of Nigeria who is capable of ensuring one united, peaceful and prosperous country. UYLA therefore called on the Southern and Middle Belt leaders to consider the ability of the Atiku/Okowa presidency in rescuing the country from maladministration, corruption, insecurity, and poor economy.