All Progressives Congress (APC), National Chairman, Nantewe Yilwatda, has downplayed the massive defections to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following the exit of former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
NewsWatch Nigeria reports that Yilwatda made this known on Wednesday in Abuja during the ongoing sale and submission of APC nomination and expression of interest forms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to developments within opposition parties, Yilwatda dismissed the resignation of about 18 National Assembly members from the ADC to the NDC, describing the movement as politically insignificant.
The APC Chairman insisted that the current defection poses no threat to the ruling party, stressing that opposition figures were merely moving within the same political space, and none of the defectors belonged to the APC.
He said, “If someone defects from ADC to NDC or another opposition party, that does not affect APC.
“Let them sort out their problems. APC remains solid and we are moving forward with strong numbers.
“You talked about NDC. When people join APC, they claim we paid them, but when they defect among themselves, nobody says anything. None of those defecting is from our party. They are fishing from the same pond.”
Speaking on the ongoing purchase of nomination forms, Yilwatda said the turnout reflected growing public support for the ruling party across the country.
Yilwatda also ruled out the possibility of extending the deadline for the purchase and submission of nomination forms, citing the timelines set out in the Electoral Act.
He stressed, “Nigerians are happy with what APC is doing. They love and accept the party across all geopolitical zones. We are encouraged by the large number of people coming out to purchase our forms.
“We would have loved to extend the time, but we are time bound.
“The Electoral Act limits the timeframe for conducting primaries and submitting results. We also want to avoid unnecessary complications.”
According to him, the APC remains well-positioned and organised ahead of the 2027 elections.
He noted, “This can only happen in APC, and we are pleased to witness it under our administration.”
Yilwatda added that the party would introduce measures during the screening exercise to prevent overcrowding and ensure a seamless process for aspirants.
