Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is operating as a government of national unity and will not stop politicians from joining its ranks.
He made the statement on Tuesday during a Senate plenary after three senators from Kebbi State officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
The defectors—Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South)—had earlier met with President Bola Tinubu on May 9 at the State House to declare their decision to move to the ruling party.
Bamidele said the APC remains open to politicians from any background or party, stressing that no one is being forced to join.
He said the move does not aim to eliminate opposition voices or create a one-party system, but reflects the personal choice of the lawmakers.
According to him, these defections are based on conviction, not pressure.
He noted that each of the senators had long-standing political careers and would not take such a step lightly.
Bamidele pointed out that politicians from different parties, including those who once held top positions under other administrations, are willingly aligning with the APC.
He described the latest development as a reflection of how people across the political space are choosing to work together under the present government.
He also said the APC welcomes the cooperation of opposition lawmakers and is committed to working with everyone to move the country forward.
According to him, the APC is not just accepting new members, but also promoting inclusive governance by making room for various political players at different levels.
The Senate leader noted that even parties like the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which has not merged with the APC, have still contributed to the administration by nominating members to serve in government roles.
He said this is further proof that what is in place is a collective effort to rebuild the country.
Abdullahi Ganduje, the national chairman of the APC, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, and APC’s national organising secretary Sulaiman Argungu were present at the plenary to witness the defections.
Leave a Reply