By Samuel Adeola
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, says the growing number of defections into the All Progressives Congress is a clear sign that Nigerians are regaining trust in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and the ruling party’s direction.
Speaking at a high-level APC North West stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna on Saturday, Abbas revealed that no fewer than 25 federal lawmakers from states like Kano, Osun, Kebbi, Delta and Edo have already pitched their tents with the APC.
He also disclosed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and his predecessor, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, have both defected to the APC, a move he described as a pointer to “many more heavyweight crossovers” in the months ahead.
“We are witnessing a wave of political realignments,” Abbas said. “The APC is growing stronger because Nigerians are seeing results. Our recent win in the Edo State governorship poll with Senator Monday Okpebholo is proof.”
The Speaker credited internal reforms in the APC for the current momentum, saying the party has improved its democratic processes, revamped its candidate selection model and deepened its grassroots structures.
According to him, the APC has made strong political inroads in Zamfara, Sokoto, Rivers and Bayelsa States through effective alliances and restructuring.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the North West, Abbas called for increased mobilisation in the zone which boasts over 22 million registered voters.
“This region holds the key to victory in 2027,” he noted, while calling on party members to remain united and focused.
The Speaker concluded with a charge to deepen youth and women engagement, pointing out that a vibrant grassroots strategy remains the backbone of the party’s electoral success.
