In an interview with Arise News, Doyin Okupe, former Director General of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign, explained his decision to leave the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and advocated for a Southern presidency in Nigeria. Okupe cited a widespread national consensus that a Southerner should succeed President Buhari, who is from the North, as the primary reason for his departure from the PDP.
According to Okupe, this consensus was strongly supported across the Southern region, involving multiple governors from different political parties. He highlighted late Governor Akeredolu as a key proponent of this cause, emphasizing that it transcended party affiliations.
Okupe expressed disappointment with the PDP for disregarding the sentiments of Southern Nigeria and ignoring the call for a Southern presidency. He underscored that politics should align with one's convictions and interests rather than blindly following party directives.
"People often ask me why I left the PDP. I made the decision because there was a widespread agreement nationally that the next president after General Buhari, who is from the North, should be a Southerner. This sentiment was strongly endorsed by Southern governors across party lines. Late Governor Akeredolu was particularly vocal in championing this cause. It was disappointing for the PDP to overlook these sentiments and disregard the emotions of Southern Nigeria. Politics should be driven by interests and convictions, not blind allegiance to party lines."
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