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Tag: All Progressives Congress

  • Minister Atah rejects Kano APC warning, reaffirms support for Barau

    Minister Atah rejects Kano APC warning, reaffirms support for Barau

    Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Atah, has responded to the warning issued to him by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano, stating that his recent statements were made within his democratic rights, without intention of causing friction within the party.

    The Kano chapter of the APC had in a letter, signed by the party’s state chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, accused Atah of “acting as the mouthpiece of the party and making remarks capable of causing disaffection among members.”

    The letter added: “The party observed that you (minister) are in the habit of making such uncomplimentary and derogatory public pronouncement and therefore has no alternative than to warn you to restrain from such behavior, failure in which the party may be compelled to take disciplinary action against you.”

    The letter was copied to President Bola Tinubu and the national secretariat of the APC.

    But in a statement by his publicity aide, Seyi Olorunsola, the minister said he was issuing a formal response for clarity purpose, public education, and restating his unwavering loyalty to the party and Mr. President.

    Atah cautioned against dragging internal party matters to national spotlight at a time when the country is grappling with urgent security concerns.

    The statement said: “The Honourable Minister views the decision to draft and circulate such a letter—especially one copied to the president—at a time when Nigeria faces a declared national security emergency, as an unnecessary distraction.

    “With the President suspending his international engagements, including the G-20 Summit in South Africa and a planned AU meeting in Angola, in order to attend to urgent state security matters, the priority of every patriotic leader should be unity, focus, and unwavering support for the Commander-in-Chief.

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    “The minister wishes to reaffirm that, beyond being a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a proud member of the APC in Kano State, he is first and foremost a citizen of Nigeria with constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression and opinion.

    “The minister’s loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and the APC is unquestionable and has been demonstrated consistently through sacrifice and commitment to the party’s ideals.

    “Therefore, any suggestion that his recent public comments amount to ‘disaffection’ or an attempt to arrogate party leadership to himself is not only unfounded but reflects a narrow and erroneous understanding of democratic rights and internal party dynamics.

    Atah also addressed concerns following his recent endorsement of Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau’s 2027 governorship ambition, which party members said prompted the warning from the Kano APC.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the minister’s recent comments on the suitability of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, as the most viable gubernatorial candidate for the APC in 2027, were personal and patriotic assessments—not official party declarations.

    “Senator Barau represents, in the minister’s view, the strongest and most unifying choice for the APC to reclaim Government House Kano at the 2027 general election.”

  • APC puts Kefas reception on hold

    APC puts Kefas reception on hold

    All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday announced the postponement of the reception of Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas earlier scheduled for today.

    The party, National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, said it shelved the reception to honour members of the armed forces and citizens killed recently by forces of terror.

    Morka said that a new date for the reception would be announced later.

    Kefas had earlier announced his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

    The APC spokesman said the postponement was also to show respect for the victims of recent incidents of abduction, especially the innocent secondary schoolgirls in Kebbi by enemies of the state.

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    He said: “We salute the courage and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, who put their lives on the line in defence of our liberty and security.

    “As we mourn our dear compatriots, we pray for the safe return of our innocent students, who were forcefully taken from their families by forces of evil.

    “Our great party commiserates deeply with the families of victims of these incidents,” the APC spokesman said.

    He added that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration remained determined to stamp out the menace of insurgency and banditry within the nation’s borders, and bring their “despicable” perpetrators to justice.

  • Let’s focus on good governance, not one-party state, APC Women Leader urges Nigerians

    Let’s focus on good governance, not one-party state, APC Women Leader urges Nigerians

    All Progressives Congress (APC) National Woman Leader Dr. Mary Alile has advised Nigerians not to worry over Nigeria slipping into a one-party state.

    She said the focus should be on the sustenance of good governance.

    She spoke in Abuja at the inauguration of APC-registered support groups drawn from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Mr. Alile said that the fixation on dominance or party count misses the point.

    She said: “I’m not worried at all that Nigeria might move towards a one-party system. I’m worried about good governance — and that is what truly matters.

    “Whether it becomes a one-party system or not, our focus should be on governance.

    “And if good governance comes through a one-party system, then I will take the good governance.

    “My brothers and sisters, if you are sick in the hospital, what you need is a good doctor — and that is what we have in Nigeria. One party or not, we have somewhere to go.

    “Continuity is important because of what His Excellency has achieved in two years — from road infrastructure to women’s development, empowerment, and student loans.

    “This is the first of its kind in Nigeria. No child wants to drop out of school at this time.

    “So, yes, we want continuity. And that is why we are sending a very strong message to anyone thinking there is vacancy in the Villa: there is no vacancy.

    “They should look for somewhere else to perch.”

    Speaking on the state of the opposition, she said a political party recently held its convention, but “the last man standing has already stepped down.”

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    She questioned the sources some people rely on for information, insisting that, in her view, “the only party still standing in Nigeria is the APC.”

    She argued that continuity is essential for the future of younger generations.

    “It’s not about me,” she said. “It’s about my children, the next generation, and those coming after us.”

    She added that Gen Z and Gen Alpha would not accept poor leadership, noting that they “want their space at the table” and understand the direction the country must take.

    According to her, sustaining the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains crucial.

    She warned that other political groups were “sinking,” describing them as “a sinking boat.”

    Her advice to Nigerians aligned with such groups was blunt: “Jump ship. Because if you don’t jump, you will drown. It’s as simple as that.”

  • Osun 2026: APC youths back NIWA boss for party guber ticket

    Osun 2026: APC youths back NIWA boss for party guber ticket

    All Progressives Congress (APC) youths from ten local government areas of Osun West Senatorial District, Osun State have endorsed the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) for the 2026 gubernatorial ticket of the party.

    One of the youth leaders, Ajani Gafar Ayodeji from Ede North Local Government Area of Osun State on Friday endorsed the NIWA boss Iwo, headquarters of the district ahead of the December 13th APC gubernatorial primary.

    Speaking with newsmen, Ayodeji said the youth wing decided to endorse Oyebamiji because his candidacy will deliver victory for the APC in 2026.

    He charged the party members to embrace Oyebamiji and not be distracted by any campaign of calumny or inducement from any side.

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    According to him, “We are here today because Osun West Youth are here to display our support for Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) as our 2026 governorship aspirant under the platform of APC, and by God’s grace, he will emerge as our next governor in Osun State by August 8, 2026.

    “Our Progressive party is a party that has rules, guidelines and we are very optimistic because, going by having all the characteristics of having the best candidate, we have everything in Bola Oyebamiji, so we are very optimistic that the ticket of the APC belongs to him.”

    Also, Osun West senatorial youth leader, Imran Adekunle urged the leaders of the party at the apex level to zone the ticket to the Osun West senatorial district.

    He said, “We have been pleading with our leaders to zone the party ticket to the Osun West Senatorial District. As of today we are fully prepared for the election, I want to urge our youths in this district to remain united and support our district to produce the Governor in 2026.”

  • APC leaders to meet tomorrow on Kefas’s planned defection

    APC leaders to meet tomorrow on Kefas’s planned defection

    The Taraba State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it will meet tomorrow with key stakeholders to discuss and agree on a date to formally receive Governor Agbu Kefas into the party.

    The state’s chairman of the party, Ibrahim El-Sudi, announced this at the weekend while addressing reporters in Jalingo, the state capital.

    He described the governor’s planned defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as “a divine breakthrough” that would fulfill the APC’s 13-year quest to control the Taraba Government House.

    “We have been yearning for this for 13 years. God has finally given us the Taraba Government House without going to the polls,” El-Sudi said.

    The state chairman said preparations were ongoing for a grand reception ceremony in Jalingo to welcome the governor into the APC.

    He said the reception would be attened by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the APC National Working Committee (NWC), and key stakeholders from across the Northeast.

    El-Sudi stated that Governor Kefas had held discussions with top APC leaders in Abuja before concluding his defect plan.

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    “He has met those who matter – from the President to the national chairman. He was advised to engage with the APC structure in Taraba, and we are ready to welcome him,” El-Sudi said.

    The APC state chairman expressed the confidence that the governor’s defection would strengthen collaboration between the Taraba State government and the Federal Government, leading to faster development in the state.

    He assured long-serving APC members that they would not be sidelined, adding that the party remained open to internal competition.

    “As a democratic party, our doors are open. Anyone who wishes to contest for the governorship under the APC platform is free to do so,” El-Sudi added.

  • Monarchs to get copies of APC chieftain’s book

    Monarchs to get copies of APC chieftain’s book

    Oyo State governorship hopeful on the platform of  All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Adewale Kareem (AKK), has announced plans to present copies of his new book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, to prominent traditional rulers in Oyo State by December.

    The announcement follows the hosting of his Town Hall Meeting, Book Launch, and Fundraising in Doonside, Sydney, Australia — an event that drew Yoruba leaders, professionals, and community figures from New South Wales.

    Kareem lauded Nigerian Association of New South Wales, Odua Group, Newcastle Muslim Brothers, and other community bodies for support. He said the gathering is a blend of cultural pride, intellectual dialogue, and shared vision.

    According to him, the book,  his roadmap for sustainable development and people-centred governance, will be presented to Olubadan, Alaafin of Oyo, Soun of Ogbomoso, and others ahead of Oyo State AKK Town Hall Meeting and Book Launch, in January.

    “Our mission is not only politics; it’s about purpose, vision, and unity,” he said. “Our fathers will be first to get my book because their blessings and guidance are central to the progress of the state and realisation of our dream.”

    Dr. Kareem also revealed that following the success of the Sydney event, similar engagements would be held in Western Australia, the United States, and Canada before June 2026, targeting members of the Oyo and Nigerian diaspora to further strengthen the movement.

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    The Doonside event, characterized by rich cultural displays and robust discourse, also served as a rallying point for supporters of the “Oyo 2027 Project,” with participants pledging moral and financial commitment to the cause.

    Dr. Kareem, widely respected for his humility and vision, reaffirmed that the slogan “Aseyori ni tiwa” — meaning Success is Ours remains the driving spirit of his campaign for a more united, progressive, and prosperous Oyo State.

    About Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)

    Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem is a scholar, community leader, and development advocate with a record of excellence in both public service and the private sector. A native of Oyo State, he is deeply committed to promoting education, innovation, and inclusive governance.

    His book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, presents a comprehensive blueprint for Oyo State’s socio-economic transformation. As the APC’s 2027 gubernatorial aspirant, Dr. Kareem’s campaign is anchored on accountability, infrastructure renewal, job creation, and human capital development — guided by his conviction that “good governance must be felt, not just promised.”

  • Defections and wind of change

    Defections and wind of change

    In 2023, the All Progressives Congress (APC) controlled 20 states and 59 senate seats. It was not a tenuous hold, but it was also not an overwhelming grip. By last week, that control had expanded to 24 states, and in the senate, to a dominant 73 seats from its 2023 level of 59 seats. These growths have been due to steady defections from opposition political parties to the ruling party, with the stream getting less viscous than one or two years ago. The APC’s previously controversial economic reform that earned it repudiation is suddenly not as controversial as they once seemed, as the economy has begun to enjoy a rebound in place of the great spasms and suffocations of the earlier months. Even President Bola Tinubu previously, once caricatured as the devil or agent of despair, has in the estimation of many of his former ardent critics become prescient.

    Despite favourable economic indicators and uplifting governorship and legislative defections, few Nigerians predicted the massive change of affiliations witnessed in the past few months. The political cognoscenti might undoubtedly have foreseen some shifts, perhaps in a few vulnerable states or off-cycle elections states, but they will be telling tall stories to say they saw anything resembling the seismic shifts that have reshaped the political leanings of Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Enugu States. They had no pressing reasons to change alliances and were not under siege by anti-graft agencies on a scale and severity glibly referenced by critics. Nor was it obvious that by keeping their former affiliations they would be brutally suffocated by Abuja, especially considering that for the last two years there had been no punitive policies or exercises directed against opposition states. Indeed, the president had admired and recommended some opposition states and deprecated, privately and to a little extent publicly, a few states under the APC umbrella.

    All the off-cycle governorship elections held in the past two years, not to talk of most of the by-elections noised among opposition coalition leaders as definitive and epochal, have been won by the ruling party. They were not rigged. While they suffered a few administrative hiccups, they were nonetheless mostly free and fair. Opposition leaders were mystified by the seemingly inexorable trend that defied their confident projections; but they seemed, after catching their breath, to have either reconciled themselves to the wind of change blowing over Nigeria or acknowledged the new realities. It may get worse for them. That wind is not only political; it is also economical. The economy is growing at a healthy rate, foreign exchange rates have not fallen as precipitously as opponents had wished and instead stabilised and strentghened, the stock market is generally and invitingly bullish, and the world, which had in the first few months of the administration excoriated the administration’s policies and warned of apocalyptic consequences, have been surprisingly upbeat.

    The APC is still six states shy of the 31 the PDP boasted of in 2007 in the closing months of the Olusegun Obasanjo presidency. The ruling party is unlikely to match that PDP feat, and even if it does, it is unlikely to boast of ruling Nigeria for 60 unbroken years. The PDP dominance at the time was, however, a spinoff of the democratic euphoria sweeping over Nigeria, with indications to exultant Nigerians that the Fourth Republic would last longer than they dared to hope. The APC’s appeal in the past two years has been anchored on the administration’s courageous and perceptive management of the country’s distressed economy. Few analysts expected a turnaround as impressive and persuasive, with many of them initially sceptical about the bona fides of the men entrusted with the management of the economy, not to say the judgement of the president himself. But clearing $10bn forex debt, raising net foreign reserves from $3.99bn in 2023 to over $40bn last month, in addition to sustaining a growth rate of about four percent, all in a little over two years, was nothing less than phenomenal.

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    The governors saw a president willing to take the flak for them by absorbing acerbic public criticism that bordered on insurrection, a president who refused to engage in blame game with his predecessor, and one who freed public funds through courageous economic policies so that states could embark on massive infrastructural renewal while borrowing little from financial institutions. No, they didn’t need to be intimidated or cajoled into defecting. They saw the future, and despite the mocking conclusions of naysayers, decided to climb in bed with the APC administration. More governors and lawmakers could still defect because the indices of change and the power of the headwind appear irresistible.

    The chances of this wind of change metamorphosing into one-party dictatorship is, however, far-fetched. It didn’t happen under Chief Obasanjo when the ruling PDP controlled 31 states. It is unlikely to happen now for the same reasons it didn’t happen then. Nigeria is not dominated by one ethnic group or religion which sometimes provide the favourable ecosystem for dictatorship. In addition, its constitution is in fact becoming more federal than the inchoate unitarism of its unpromising and uncompromising beginnings. What is more, power is gradually devolving to the sub-nationals in a way that does not flagrantly and defiantly threaten the hegemonism of the cartels that have maintained a stranglehold on the country. In any case, as history has shown, a seismic shift to dictatorship is often facilitated by periods of economic emergencies, such as depression, or massive existential challenges, such as civil or external wars. Check out Spain under Franscisco Franco, Italy under Benito Mussolini, Germany under Adolf Hitler, and Portugal under Antonio Salazar, among others. Where military generals and political demagogues sometimes tended to authoritarianism when circumstances permit, economists and financial experts rarely make dictators or one-party virtuosi, of course with the notable exception of Prof. Salazar, a brilliant political economist who balanced his country’s distressed budget and lulled distraught and hungry Portuguese to complacency. 

  • Akpabio engages youths on mentorship, others

    Akpabio engages youths on mentorship, others

    National Youth Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dayo Israel, has hosted President of Senate, Godswill  Akpabio, to an engaging interactive session: “An Evening with Senate President” at APC Youth House in Abuja.

    The event convened young leaders, professionals, and APC Youth Wing for an inspiring evening of mentorship and dialogue:  “Legacy. Journey. Experience.”

    Israel thanked the Senate president for honouring  the invitation and for his commitment to youth inclusion and empowerment in the party.

    He lauded Akpabio as a leader whose journey in governance inspires a new generation of emerging leaders.

    “The Senate president embodies visionary leadership. His journey from governor to minister and Senate president shows resilience, excellence, and a dedication to national service. Tonight’s engagement provided young people in our party an opportunity to learn from his experience. We will keep bridging the gap between experience and innovation, ensuring that young people remain active drivers of policy, governance, and political strategy in our party and nation,” he said.

    Akpabio shared insight from over two decades of public service. He noted importance of preparation, mentorship, and consistency in leadership, urging youths to build capacity and remain steadfast in their commitment to development.

    “The future of Nigeria rests on the energy, innovation, and determination of youths. I commend APC Youth Wing for creating a platform that bridges generations and upholds values of progress and unity in our party,” he said.

    On APC and youths, he said: “Dayo Israel is one of the most eloquent youth leaders Nigeria has. Youths are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders of today…’’

    APC is a vehicle of leadership, transformation, and change. You have to be angry with your situation to be able to change it.”

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    On leadership, he said he joined  politics to change the status quo.

    “With positive anger, genuine intention, and God on your side, you will make it in life.

     One of the ways I changed the perception of Akwa Ibom indigenes being seen as only fit to serve as domestic workers was by declaring free and compulsory education for primary and secondary schools when I became Governor of Akwa Ibom State,” he said.

    He urged the youths to have faith in Nigeria and think positively about her, because what they think in their mind about the country is what will happen.

    “As a young person, you have the power to change Nigeria. If you feel discouraged about Nigeria, do something about it.The will of God for man is to progress; so, let us unite and progress.

    The mind is stronger than the body, so take care of your mind. If you want to be successful, avoid the excessive pursuit of money; money cannot give you happiness or peace.

    If you want to be successful as a young person, do not get entangled in inappropriate relationships with married women,” he added.

  • Governorship aspirant felicitates party chair on birthday

    Governorship aspirant felicitates party chair on birthday

    All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Dr. Adewale Kareem, has congratulated state party chairman, Alhaji Olayide Moshood Abas, on his birthday.

    In a message, Kareem (AKK), said Abas is “a pillar of progressive ideologies and a rallying point for members.”

    He lauded the chairman’s leadership style, noting it has strengthened party unity and expanded APC’s reach in Oyo.

    “Under your guidance, APC in Oyo State has witnessed a huge drive toward attainment and growth, marked by acceptance and influx of dedicated individuals,” Kareem said.

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    The governorship hopeful recalled that Abas’ open-door leadership approach facilitated the admission of more members, including his structure, Aseyori Support Group.

    Kareem also hailed the chairman’s ability to balance his political responsibilities with his national assignment as chairman of Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna. He said Abas has demonstrated professionalism and discipline in harmonising both roles.

    “Your ability to harmonise these roles has advanced public health and fortified our party’s strength in Oyo State,” Kareem added.

    He prayed for long life, good health and greater wisdom for the celebrator, wishing him success in his endeavours.

    “Your well-being is a blessing to us, and I look forward to years of your inspiring leadership,” the statement read.

  • Madagali attack: Stop the shameful grandstanding, APC fires Atiku 

    Madagali attack: Stop the shameful grandstanding, APC fires Atiku 

    The Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his remarks on the recent terrorist attack in Wagga Mongoro, Madagali Local Government Area.

    Four people were confirmed dead after suspected Boko Haram insurgents struck the community last Tuesday.

    In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the APC State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Mohammed Abdullahi, described Atiku’s comments as insensitive.

    “Atiku once again proved that tragedy, for him, is not a moment of sober reflection but a stage for cheap politics. Instead of standing with the grieving persons, he rushed to issue a hollow statement riddled with lies and errors,” the statement read.

    “Unfortunately, upon hearing about the tragedy, Atiku hurriedly put up the sordid and fictitious statement laced with political innuendos. From the statement, it is clear that Atiku is either ignorant of what really transpired or he was plainly mischievous or both. His statement got both the place and even the number of casualties involved wrong. It was a comedy of errors. 

    “Without mincing words, it must be stated that Atiku and the PDP government he once served laid the foundation for the insecurity we are battling today. 

    “Surprisingly, Atiku, whose tragic failure at leadership contributed immensely to the current insecurity, is now shamelessly using the very monster he helped create to further his wicked and diabolic plan to destabilize the country. The PDP government in which he was the second in command squarely puts us into this quagmire.

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    Despite his renewed rhetorics, Atiku once neglected Adamawa when he had the chance to change its fortunes, attracting no meaningful projects and abandoning even his own hometown of Jada, while concentrating on personal business ventures. 

    “When Boko Haram overran Adamawa communities, displaced families, and shut down livelihoods, Atiku was silent. Now, when peace is gradually returning under APC leadership, he suddenly finds his voice – not to unite, but to exploit.

    The APC government Atiku wants to discredit at all costs is doing a good job in cleaning the Augean stable. Competent, patriotic, and committed hands are manning the situation now actively supporting our gallant armed forces and security agents.”

    Abdullahi argued further that “this shameless politicization of grief is to say the least condescending and no leader worth his status should have embraced such scorched earth approach to make anybody or government look bad for the expediency of his personal political. Such an approach is callous, reckless, and a stark reminder of Atiku’s disconnect from the people he claims to champion.

    “The APC stands firmly with the victims of Wagga Mongoro. We commiserate with the bereaved, pray for the injured, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that these degraded insurgents are finally defeated.

    “The people of Adamawa are not deceived. They know the difference between genuine solidarity and empty posturing. They know who stood with them in their darkest hours – and who is now cynically dancing on fresh graves for political gain.”