The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) leadership has signaled a strong political alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The party’s National Executive Council (NEC) may soon formally endorse him for the 2027 general elections.
Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa, APGA National Chairman, shared this development. He spoke at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday. Ezeokenwa emphasized that APGA stands as Nigeria’s only major progressive party. He noted its philosophy aligns closely with President Tinubu’s administrative style.
APGA’s Tradition of Support
Ezeokenwa highlighted APGA’s long-standing tradition. The party historically supports central governments that demonstrate good governance. This practice has been consistently shown by past and current APGA governors in Anambra State.
“It is in the history of the party to work with a central government that is progressive,” Ezeokenwa stated. He added, “That is what the Governor of Anambra, Professor Soludo, is demonstrating.”
He explained that APGA focuses on delivering good governance, not just participating in elections. Ezeokenwa also pointed to President Tinubu’s recent visit to Anambra State. During the visit, the President wore the APGA insignia. This, he said, underlined the “progressive nature shared by the two leaders.”
“You saw the day Mr. President visited Anambra State, he wore the APGA insignia without bias. So, we are quite in support of him,” Ezeokenwa affirmed.
Soludo’s Alleged Defection Debunked
Ezeokenwa also addressed persistent rumors. These rumors suggested Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo might defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The APGA chairman offered an unequivocal denial.
He declared, “Professor Soludo is going nowhere. I can say unequivocally that the Anambra State Governor, as party leader, never harbored such ambition.”
Advocacy for Security Reforms
The National Chairman also commented on national security. He criticized the current security framework and called for significant reforms.
Ezeokenwa specifically criticized Nigeria’s over-centralized security architecture. He argued that no country with a true federal system operates in such a manner. His leadership, he stressed, would always support decentralization.
Praise for Bianca Ojukwu’s Appointment
Barrister Ezeokenwa also expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s leadership. He particularly praised the appointment of Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu as a Minister. He highlighted this as a significant milestone for APGA.
He stated, “I can say it again and challenge anyone that she is the best Minister under this administration. This is the first time the party is producing a Minister not of the same party [as the President].”
APGA’s Strong Performance in Anambra
Ezeokenwa attributed APGA’s strong showing in the last Anambra gubernatorial election to Governor Soludo’s achievements. He said Soludo’s delivery of democracy dividends resonated with the people. He dismissed opposition criticism as merely “the rants of misguided individuals.”
He pointed to the party’s “overwhelming victory.” APGA won all but seven local government areas. This, he concluded, proved the party’s widespread popularity and impact across the state.