The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has reassured long-standing members that recent defectors will not be allowed to dominate or take over the party’s leadership structures.
Yilwatda gave the assurance after a closed-door meeting with stakeholders of the party in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stressing that while the APC remained open to new members, its foundational structure would be protected.
He emphasized the distinction between legacy members—those who built the party—and newcomers, noting that both groups would be fairly accommodated without allowing one to overshadow the other.
Describing the party as a “home” built by its founding members, the APC chairman cautioned defectors against attempting to seize control.
He, however, advocated for a balanced power-sharing arrangement that ensures inclusiveness across all blocs.
According to him, the party is working on a structured sharing formula that guarantees representation for both legacy members and new entrants.
The arrangement, he said, will promote unity and stability within the party.
Yilwatda also outlined key components of the formula, including gender inclusion with women occupying substantive executive roles, equitable geopolitical representation across the six zones, inclusion of indigenous groups in the FCT, and active youth participation.
He disclosed that a committee chaired by Zephaniah Jisalo had already conducted zoning for the FCT chapter of the party, adding that its recommendations had been strictly followed.
The chairman noted that no member has so far raised concerns about marginalisation, assuring that the party’s constitution would be upheld in the forthcoming congresses.
On eligibility, Yilwatda stated that defectors seeking executive positions must provide valid evidence of resignation from their former political parties, including acceptance letters from their previous party chairmen.
He also reiterated the party’s stance on tenure limits, explaining that any member who has held a position for eight consecutive years must step down or move to another office.
Highlighting his leadership philosophy, Yilwatda stressed that inclusion remains a core principle of the APC, adding that the party must reflect Nigeria’s diversity by accommodating all ethnic groups and interests.
He concluded by underscoring the importance of women in politics, noting that they should not only be mobilised during elections but also recognized as key contributors and decision-makers within the party.
