BREAKING: Atiku shuns Wike, picks Okowa as running mate

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has picked Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, as his running mate, side-stepping Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, who came second at the PDP presidential primary.

Both Okowa and Wike had been highly favoured to run with the PDP standard flag bearer in the 2023 presidential election.

“I am delighted to announce Governor Ifeanyi A. Okowa as my Vice Presidential candidate.

“I look forward to travelling our great country together, engaging with all Nigerians and building a shared future of peace, unity, and prosperity for all. As One We Can Get It Done. #OneNigeria,” Abubakar announced on his social media handles on Thursday.

READ: Tinubu vs Atiku: Two desperadoes running against Nigeria

Addressing members of the Board of Trustees (BoT) at the party headquarters on Thursday, Atiku said he consulted with all organs of the party.

He also said party unity was critical for a good campaign. The former Vice President said all those recommended to work with him were qualified but he settled for “someone who has the potential to succeed me”.