Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has finally named Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State as his running mate.
Atiku unveiled Okowa at the PDP headquarters in Abuja, on Thursday, June 16.
Okowa and Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike were considered the favourites for the job of Atiku’s running mate before the pronouncement.
During the unveiling, the former Vice President stated that his running mate must have the freedom to express himself.
He also stated that Okowa must be willing to collaborate with him at all times.
The PDP presidential candidate stated his “running mate’s decision was a difficult one, but I’m not frightened to make such judgments.”
He also noted that some of the qualities he looked out for include someone who understands the enormity of the challenges facing the country and one who has demonstrated, from experience, that he can proffer some solutions.
Read Also: PDP Slams APC Over “43 Million Victory Votes” Claim To Win 2023 Election
Atiku said he looked out for one who has the qualities of a president, who can stand in for him when he’s not around.
Earlier, the PDP had denied reports that it had ruled out Wike from the Vice Presidential race.
A statement issued by Debo Ologunagba, the PDP National Publicity Secretary read;
If anything, our Party reiterates its confidence in Governor Nyesom Wikes’s outstanding ability and commitment to the ideals and values of the PDP.
The various positions creditably held by Governor Nyesom Wike distinguished him as an excellent team player in public governance.
While the PDP notes the interest of the media and the public in our Party’s choice of Vice-Presidential candidate it is imperative to state that as an organic Party, all our processes will be followed through in strict adherence to our procedures before any official announcements.
The PDP urges Nigerians to disregard the mischievous reports aimed at undermining our Party’s unity at this critical time.
