Jacob Mark, former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has downplayed the significance of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the move holds little to no political weight and will not cause any meaningful shift within the PDP.
Reacting to growing media reports and public commentary surrounding Okowa’s political switch, Mark questioned the relevance of the defection, particularly in light of the former governor’s performance during the 2023 presidential elections. Okowa served as the running mate to PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar in that election, but the party was unable to secure a victory in Delta State—a development many saw as a critical failure of leadership at the state level.
“It’s ironic that anyone would expect a political earthquake from someone who could not even deliver his home state in a general election where he had the opportunity to prove his influence,” Mark said. “His defection, rather than being a game-changer, only confirms what many already know—Okowa no longer commands the kind of political capital that makes a difference.”
Mark argued that Okowa’s decision to join the APC is a personal one, likely driven by self-preservation and political survival, rather than a reflection of any ideological alignment or genuine conviction. He added that the PDP has weathered bigger storms in the past and will not be destabilized by what he described as “opportunistic moves by individuals looking for greener pastures.”
According to him, the ruling APC should not see Okowa’s entry as a strategic gain but rather as a desperate move by a politician whose influence is on the decline. “This is not a tsunami. It’s not even a strong wave. At best, it’s a ripple in a teacup. The PDP remains intact, and the grassroots support in Delta and other key states is still solid,” Mark said.
He went further to urge PDP members and supporters not to be discouraged or distracted by what he labeled as “media-driven drama.” Instead, he called for a renewed focus on party reorganization, unity, and preparation for future electoral battles.
“We are in a phase where loyalty and competence must come first. Okowa’s exit is a chance for us to reflect, regroup, and rebuild stronger structures. We must continue engaging our base, empowering our youths, and working towards a better vision for Nigeria,” Mark concluded.
Political observers believe that while defections remain a common feature of Nigerian politics, the real impact lies in followership and structure—both of which, according to Mark, Okowa no longer possesses in any influential capacity.
