Former Vice-President of Nigeria and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, has picked Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as his running mate in the February 2023 presidential election.
Atiku confirmed his preference for Okowa yesterday, at an unveiling event of his running mate held in Abuja.
Before the announcement, the name of Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, had featured prominently among those in contention.
Wike came second with 237 votes in the PDP presidential primaries held penultimate Saturday, which Atiku clinched against the 371 votes.
Atiku, while speaking on his choice said his vice-president must fulfill the qualities to be president and one that could complement him as a President. He added that he should symbolise the quality to unite Nigeria, who is not afraid to speak and give advice on governance in the country.
He also added that his running mate must understand what he described as the depth of rots in the Nigerian system, with understanding of critical needs of economic growth.
Following the announcement, Okowa will thereafter be screened by a committee already set up for that purpose.
Recall that Wike, who has been the foreman on the radar of the PDP heavyweights and was speculated to be selected as the vice-presidential candidate of the main opposition party, was rumoured to have been selected as Atiku’s running mate.
However, the party on Wednesday dismissed reports that its Selection Committee has settled for the Rivers State governor as the party’s vice-presidential candidate.
