The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has justified its decision not to field candidates in certain local government areas during the recent council elections. According to Tony Okocha, the party’s strategy was to avoid competing with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in areas where they lacked the capacity to win.

Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Okocha explained that the APC’s decision was based on a comparative advantage, where they chose not to contest in areas where the outcome would likely be unfavorable. He cited the example of Port Harcourt City, where the PDP candidate had previously performed well as a mayor and was likely to receive significant support from the community.

Okocha also addressed speculation that APC candidates in the local government elections were originally members of the PDP. He confirmed that some candidates had indeed defected to the APC, adding that the party had deliberately targeted politicians with proven track records. Okocha argued that the PDP was in disarray, and it was a privilege for the APC to “harvest” its members.

The APC’s strategy appears to have paid off, with the party achieving some success in the elections. Okocha attributed this to the party’s calculated approach, which involved discreetly recruiting new members and targeting areas where they had a stronger chance of winning.

Looking ahead, the APC has set its sights on recruiting more high-profile members, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. Okocha stated that the party’s ultimate goal is to take full control of Rivers State, and they will continue to reach out to potential defectors. With the PDP reportedly in disarray, the APC sees an opportunity to make significant gains in the state. The party’s efforts to expand its membership and influence are likely to be closely watched in the coming months.