Senator Kashim Shettima, the Vice President, has highlighted that the recent surge of politicians defecting from various parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has unveiled significant weaknesses within the opposition ranks.
He emphasized that while the opposition’s internal divisions are becoming increasingly apparent, the APC continues to fortify its position through the alliances it has fostered.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu at a grand event in Enugu welcoming Governor Peter Mbah, his cabinet, and supporters into the APC, the Vice President described the governor’s and his followers’ decision to join the ruling party as a powerful affirmation of the APC’s unified vision.
“There has been much discussion about the ongoing wave of defections to our party. What the opposition fails to recognize is why the APC remains the favored choice for Nigeria’s most forward-thinking political leaders,” he remarked.
“These defections are not mere coincidences; they expose the fractures in the opposition’s foundation and highlight the strength of the bridges we have built. Over time, the APC has evolved into a political haven where innovative ideas thrive, ambitions are guided, and patriotism is shared,” he added, as conveyed in a statement by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha.
However, the Vice President reiterated President Tinubu’s frequent assertion that it is not the responsibility of the ruling party to repair the opposition’s internal issues.
“Our role is to provide Nigerians with a fair platform and a clear alternative grounded in integrity, competence, and tangible results. The reason we are repeatedly chosen as the party of today and tomorrow is that we embody order over disorder, advancement over stagnation, and optimism over despair,” he explained.
Addressing the large crowd gathered at Michael Okpara Square in Enugu to support the governor’s move, VP Shettima stressed that the APC has cultivated relationships based on trust, embraced diverse interests, and created a space where every Nigerian with genuine intentions can find purpose.
He praised President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership style, his attentiveness, and his commitment to meritocracy, which have transformed the APC into one of Africa’s most formidable political entities.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is a leader for all seasons and all people-a man whose promises are steadfast. His inclusive approach, exceptional listening skills, and preference for merit over favoritism have made the APC the strongest political family on the continent,” the Vice President stated.
“This is why every progressive thinker, reformer, and visionary eventually finds their way here. So, to you, Governor Peter Mbah, and your team-welcome home. Within the APC, you have discovered a lasting family, a partner in your journey, and a party that values your contributions,” he affirmed.
In a lighthearted tone, Senator Shettima suggested that Governor Mbah had long been aligned with the APC’s ideals, even while under the opposition’s banner, joking that he might have been concealing a broom-the APC’s emblem-beneath his umbrella, the symbol of the opposition PDP.
“Governor, let me say this with warmth and humor: you have always been one of us. You embody progressiveness through and through. I am convinced you had the broom hidden under your umbrella all along, waiting for the perfect moment to reveal it,” he quipped.
“Now that you have chosen the right time to come home, we are not resentful of your arrival-we are thrilled to have you strengthen our party and add your voice to the chorus of progress,” he added.
The Vice President also reminded Governor Mbah that, in keeping with party tradition, he now assumes leadership of the APC in Enugu State, carrying the important responsibility of revitalizing the party locally.
“You are not only a key figure within the state but also a prominent voice nationally. The President has pledged his full support, and I want to reaffirm that we stand ready to collaborate with you to deepen development and democratic gains for the people of Enugu,” he said.
Highlighting that a political party’s strength is rooted in its grassroots structures-including associations, networks, and daily interactions that breathe life into its principles-VP Shettima noted that Governor Mbah’s close connection with the people positions him well to fortify the APC’s foundation.
“Governor, you have been our ally even while under the opposition’s umbrella, and now that you wield the broom of hope, we are even more delighted. Your influence, credibility, and strength are invaluable assets to this party. Your arrival enriches our narrative and reinforces our mission,” he concluded.
Welcoming the governor and his supporters into the APC family, the Vice President reiterated the party’s commitment to being the home for all progressives.
National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, also extended a warm welcome to Governor Mbah, affirming that they are now part of “the heart and family of the Progressives-the APC.”
He expressed gratitude to the governor for courageously leading his people into the APC, describing Mbah’s achievements in education and infrastructure as reasons for the warm reception.
“Governor Mbah has revitalized the education sector, constructed roads, and delivered numerous benefits to his people. His progressive spirit is why we are proud to welcome him home,” Prof. Yilwatda stated.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the governor for his transformative impact on Enugu State within just two years of office, celebrating his decision to join the progressives.
Similarly, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honorable Tajudeen Abbas, described the grand reception as a historic moment for Enugu State’s government and citizens.
The Speaker assured Governor Mbah of equal treatment within the APC family and predicted that his defection signals a broader shift, with the entire South-East region likely to join the progressives.
Upon officially joining the APC, Governor Mbah hailed the party as the largest political organization in Africa.
He described his defection as a fresh start, marking the end of political marginalization, and emphasized that the decision was a collective one made by the state’s political family.
“Today, we collectively affirm our commitment to ending fragmented politics in our zone. We are moving forward to seize opportunities at the national level,” he declared.
Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) and Governor of Imo State, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Governor Mbah into the forum.
He expressed confidence that Enugu State’s entry into the APC fold would bolster support for President Tinubu in the South-East and enhance the region’s influence in national affairs.
