Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro has accused former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of contributing to the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) defeat in the 2023 presidential election, calling his nomination as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate a costly mistake.

Moro made the remarks in reaction to Okowa’s recent Arise TV interview, where the former vice-presidential candidate expressed regret over accepting the role. Okowa, along with Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and key PDP figures in the state, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) last week.

Describing Okowa’s statement as “uncharitable,” Moro said the former governor had lobbied for the VP ticket and should not now try to disassociate from its outcome. “Some people believed there were better choices—individuals more committed to the party’s success—than Okowa,” he said.

Moro also criticized Okowa’s inability to secure victory for the PDP in Delta State, despite holding sway as a sitting governor and former senator. “It’s telling that two of the three senators from Delta are now from the opposition. That speaks volumes about the impact of his candidacy,” he added.

Despite the wave of defections, Moro maintained that the PDP remains resilient and deeply rooted across the country. He noted that all PDP state chairmen recently reaffirmed their loyalty and readiness to rebuild ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Even with internal issues, the PDP still has passionate supporters who believe in its future. If our rebuilding efforts succeed, so be it. If not, the PDP remains a national brand with broad appeal,” Moro stated.