The Forum of State Chairmen from the now-defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) has publicly disassociated itself from a recent visit made by some of its members to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
They characterized this action as deceptive and not reflective of the collective stance of the Forum.
Furthermore, the group urged the Presidency and the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to promptly address what they perceive as ongoing marginalization of the CPC faction within the party.
In a joint declaration signed by Kasim Mabo, National Chairman, and Sulaiman Oyaremi, National Secretary, the Forum clarified that among its 37 members, 16 have aligned themselves with the former Vice President, while 20 remain steadfast supporters of the APC and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The statement also accused opposition figures, including allies of the former VP, of applying pressure on the Forum by offering financial incentives to sway members away from the ruling party.
“We unequivocally affirm that 20 members continue to stand loyal to the All Progressives Congress. It is important to note that our Forum has been subjected to intense coercion, including monetary inducements from opposition leaders. This explains why nine members yielded to such pressures several months ago, with an additional seven joining them recently as the pressure became overwhelming. Currently, 20 of us remain resolute, despite the loss of one member from Borno State,” the statement declared.
“This situation calls for serious introspection, particularly from the Presidency and APC leadership, to urgently remedy the persistent neglect of the CPC bloc, especially the Forum of State Chairmen who increasingly feel sidelined. Without exaggeration, we represent the crucial grassroots link that once gave the CPC its national prominence. We were the Chairmen who collaborated with the late President Buhari to secure the acclaimed 12.5 million votes,” the statement emphasized.
Rejecting the significance of the recent visit, the Forum described it as a mere ploy aimed at misleading the former Vice President.
They insisted that the meeting lacked authentic political weight and was deliberately staged to fabricate an illusion of broad-based support.
The Forum also highlighted that former CPC State Chairmen continue to be an essential grassroots foundation that played a pivotal role in the CPC’s influence before its merger with the APC.
Reaffirming their allegiance, the Forum pledged ongoing backing for the leadership of the former CPC bloc, under the guidance of Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, and Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.
“We apc-of-acting-like-terrorist-organisation/” title=”ADC accuses … of acting like terrorist organisation”>remain loyal, patient, and resolute in our demand for improved recognition, while praying that Almighty God continues to bless Mr. President and all our leaders,” the statement concluded.
