Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is effectively operating a government of national unity, following the mass defection of federal lawmakers from Kebbi State to the ruling party.
Speaking at the Senate chamber on Tuesday during the formal defection of Senators Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, Garba Maidoki, and all members of the House of Representatives from the state, Bamidele asserted that President Bola Tinubu had not coerced any opposition member into joining the APC.
The event was witnessed by prominent APC figures, including the party’s National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje; Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Nasir Idris; and the National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Argungu.
The lawmakers had earlier met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa over the weekend to convey their decision to join the APC. Their formal announcement in the Senate signalled a significant shift in the political landscape of Kebbi State.
Bamidele described the defections as a reflection of a broader national consensus, stressing that those crossing over were motivated by a desire to serve the public good rather than any personal or political pressure.
“We are not shutting our doors to anyone who wishes to join us,” Bamidele said. “Neither are we discriminating based on religion, tribe, or any other factor. This is not about building a one-party state. Rather, we are building a coalition of national interest.”
Citing the involvement of parties such as the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and even noting that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) contributed a minister to the current administration, Bamidele insisted that the Tinubu government is one of national inclusion.
He further drew a contrast between current political developments and the past, recalling how the PDP, while in power, allegedly coerced members of other parties to join its ranks. In contrast, he said, the recent defections to the APC are based on conviction and patriotism.
“None of the defectors, including distinguished senators like Aliero and Abdullahi, can be compelled against their will. These are seasoned leaders with experience in governance and service. They know what is best for their constituents and for Nigeria,” Bamidele said.
He urged critics to look beyond party affiliations, insisting that what matters at this point in Nigeria’s history is unity and cooperation to move the country forward.
“To those still sitting in the opposition, we say this is not the time for grandstanding. It’s time to work together,” he stated. “Once you are in this chamber, your loyalty should be to the nation first.”
Bamidele concluded by reaffirming the APC’s commitment to collaboration across party lines, stating that the party’s growing appeal is a testament to its focus on national progress and inclusive governance.
