The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has openly stated that he is gaining political experience and guidance from Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Professor Yilwatda made this known on Saturday shortly after receiving a traditional title in Plateau State. The honour, “Kaeh-rit,” which translates to “the good seed of Ampang East,” was conferred on him in recognition of his leadership contributions and political influence within the region. Speaking during the event, the APC National Chairman described President Tinubu as the most suitable figure to learn politics from, noting that the President’s long-standing political journey has shaped Nigeria’s modern democratic landscape. According to Yilwatda, President Tinubu has played a personal mentoring role in his political development. He explained that since the President embraced him as a son, he has gained valuable lessons in leadership, strategy, and political discipline. “I am learning from the very best leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Yilwatda said. “Mr President is among the greatest politicians anyone can learn from. Since he adopted me as his son, he has continued to teach and guide me, and I have learned a lot from him.” He further emphasized that any success associated with his political journey is a direct result of the mentorship he receives from President Tinubu. Yilwatda added that he remains committed to applying those lessons as he works toward becoming one of Nigeria’s most impactful political leaders. “If you see me making progress, it is because I am learning from the finest political mind Nigeria has ever produced. I will continue to work hard so I can also achieve what he has achieved and contribute meaningfully to the nation,” he stated. Professor Yilwatda also expressed optimism regarding the political direction of Plateau State. He said he believes the recent defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the APC will bring positive developments and growth to the state. While addressing party members and supporters, the APC Chairman reiterated the party’s commitment to inclusiveness. He stressed that the APC operates an open-door policy where all members, regardless of background or status, enjoy equal rights and opportunities within the party structure. He concluded by assuring members that unity, fairness, and collective participation remain central values of the APC as it continues to strengthen its political base across the country.
A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Khamis Musa Darazo, who is also a loyal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has urged the Presidency and the national leadership of the party to take swift action to prevent an imminent defection of some influential members. Darazo expressed deep concern that certain aggrieved stakeholders and former officeholders within the APC are allegedly dissatisfied with recent developments in the party’s internal structure and decision-making process. According to him, the failure of the leadership to address these grievances could trigger a wave of defections that might weaken the ruling party’s political strength ahead of the next general election. He specifically mentioned that former ministers, including Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, and other senior political figures might consider leaving the party if their concerns continue to be ignored. Darazo called on President Tinubu and the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to initiate reconciliation meetings and dialogue aimed at restoring unity and trust among members. Darazo emphasized that the APC, being the ruling party, cannot afford to lose experienced and influential figures whose contributions have been pivotal to its success. He warned that failure to address internal disputes and marginalization issues could pave the way for political instability and loss of public confidence in the party. Furthermore, he urged the leadership to focus on inclusiveness and equitable distribution of appointments, stating that fair representation across various geopolitical zones remains key to sustaining national unity under the APC government. Darazo’s warning serves as a wake-up call for the party hierarchy to re-evaluate its internal affairs, strengthen its grassroots connection, and maintain cohesion among its members. Political analysts believe that ignoring such warnings may deepen the cracks within the APC and give opposition parties an advantage in upcoming elections. For context, internal wrangling and high-profile defections have previously affected Nigeria’s major political parties, leading to major shifts in the country’s political landscape. Analysts have noted that swift reconciliation and inclusion remain essential strategies for maintaining dominance in a dynamic democracy like Nigeria’s.
