APC Chairman Dismisses Allegations of Party Influence in Opposition Defections

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has refuted claims that his party is orchestrating defections and crises within opposition ranks, specifically targeting Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). In an interview on Channels Television, Yilwatda asserted that Obi's history of switching parties dates back to 2014, long before the current administration took power.

Yilwatda emphasized that accusations of the APC undermining rival parties ahead of the 2027 general elections are unfounded. "Nobody in APC chased Peter Obi out of PDP. Nobody from APC chased Obi out of the Labour Party," he stated, highlighting that Obi's political transitions are self-initiated rather than a consequence of APC actions.

The APC chairman's remarks come in response to ongoing criticisms from opposition leaders, who allege that the APC is inciting instability within their parties. Yilwatda maintained that the internal issues faced by these parties are self-inflicted, suggesting that the frequent party changes reflect a lack of cohesion and purpose among opposition leaders.

Drawing a contrast between the formation of the APC and the current state of opposition coalitions, Yilwatda asserted that the APC was established on a unified vision rather than individual ambitions. He noted that former Lagos State Governor Bola Tinubu played a significant role in rallying support for the party, which formed in 2013 without seeking immediate political gains.

Obi's recent movements, from the Labour Party to the ADC and now to the NDC, have ignited discussions regarding the stability of opposition factions. Yilwatda remarked, "When he left Labour Party for ADC and then to NDC, he was merely searching for a platform that could guarantee him an electoral ticket."

Contrary to speculation, Yilwatda dismissed the notion that APC members are infiltrating opposition parties to foster instability. "There’s no single member of APC that is in ADC. No single member of APC that is in NDC," he asserted. However, he acknowledged that part of his role as chairman includes recruiting politicians from rival parties to bolster APC's strength.

When questioned about the party's approach to handling corruption allegations against new members, Yilwatda firmly rejected the idea that joining the APC provides immunity. "Most people who are in APC have still been prosecuted," he stated, reinforcing that accountability remains a priority.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Obi's trajectory raises questions about the future of opposition unity and the strategies that will shape the upcoming elections.