Omolola Fadile, Jos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the growing confidence of Nigerians in the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the latest mass defection into the party in Plateau State as further proof that his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda is resonating across the country.
Speaking through Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who represented him at the grand reception for the new members, President Tinubu said the steady inflow of politicians into the APC reflects a nationwide endorsement of the government’s direction and performance.
“Let me assure the new entrants from different political backgrounds that they will be treated with fairness and given opportunities to contribute meaningfully to strengthening the party and securing victories in future elections at all levels,” he said.
The National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshewe, reinforced the President’s message, declaring that the party is now more united and energized than ever before.
He expressed confidence that the APC will clinch the governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly seats in Plateau State in the next polls, noting that even individuals who opposed the party previously have now embraced it.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, echoed the sentiment, celebrating the APC’s increasing appeal both in Plateau and nationwide.
Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum and Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule noted that Plateau remains a formidable APC stronghold despite not currently controlling the state government.
He observed that the defection of members from the ruling party in the state proves that the APC’s ideals continue to attract broad support.
Former Plateau State Governor and APC leader in the state, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, described the event as a triumph over attempts to weaken the party.
He criticized the current PDP administration for reversing key APC-era policies and projects, yet maintained that the people of Plateau have remained steadfast in their loyalty to the APC.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Latep Dabang said the new members are inspired by President Tinubu’s leadership, the national chairman’s vision, and Senator Lalong’s commitment to preserving the party’s strength in Plateau and promised to deliver a win for the APC in the 2027 elections.
Some of the prominent defectors include: Former Senator for Plateau North, Sen. I.D. Gyang; Former Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Patrick Dakum; Former APC State Chairman and ex-Special Adviser, Chief Latep Dabang; Serving House of Representatives Member for Jos North/Bassa, Daniel Asama; and Dalyop Fom, Member representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom