{
  "id": 18846815,
  "title": "I Have Seen the Light, Okowa Gives Reason Why He Ditched Atiku",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/08/i-have-seen-the-light-okowa-gives-reason-why-he-ditched-atiku",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-08T02:33:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "This Day",
    "slug": "this-day",
    "url": "https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/11/08/i-have-seen-the-light-okowa-gives-reason-why-he-ditched-atiku/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Delta State governor and 2023 PDP vice-presidential contender, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, announced his defection to the APC during a massive rally in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Okowa attributed his decision to his belief that President Bola Tinubu's administration is undertaking necessary, structural reforms to repair Nigeria's long-standing economic decline. At the gathering, Okowa directly addressed his shift in political allegiance, emphasizing that national interests should take precedence over political loyalty. He stated, \"You all know that in 2023 I was on another ticket, but I have seen the light, and I have seen what Mr. President is doing for Nigeria.\" The APC candidate argued that the administration's economic reset and fiscal reforms, which include enhanced revenue allocations to states and local governments, validate his defection. Okowa highlighted the positive impact on states and local governments, noting that salaries are being paid and projects are underway. He also praised the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a key social investment, which enables students to complete their education without financial strain. Okowa criticized opposition calls to reinstate fuel subsidies, arguing that such measures would lead the country back into economic decay. He warned that past leaders who supported the subsidy regime have damaged Nigeria's foundations and vowed that President Tinubu is rebuilding the nation. Okowa concluded his speech by urging voters in the South-South region to support Tinubu's re-election, stating that a new Nigeria is being born, characterized by improved security and prosperity for future generations.",
  "summary": "Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Former Delta State governor and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice-presidential candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday said he abandoned his former political camp because he has",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}