Olisa Metuh, former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially announced his defection. He has joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This move marks his return to partisan politics after a three-year hiatus. Metuh explained his decision, stating that APC members offered him crucial support when he needed it most.
The former PDP official made this declaration on Sunday, at a thanksgiving service in Abuja. The event celebrated his 60th birthday.
Distinguished guests attended the service. They included Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, and former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim. Other notable figures included former governors Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), and Ikedi Ohakim (Imo). Senators Victor Umeh and Tony Nwoye were also present, among others.
Why Metuh Joined the APC
Speaking to journalists, Metuh expressed his readiness. He will contribute to Nigeria’s development through the APC platform.
He shared his past struggles during his testimony to the congregation. “When I had problems, I did not see my party,” he recounted. “I did not see the people I suffered for. I was in court with my family.”
Metuh then highlighted a striking contrast. He recalled President Bola Tinubu, then the opposition leader, reaching out to him. “There was no week we didn’t criticise him,” Metuh admitted. “Yet, during my problem, he sent the then Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, to see me.”
He continued, “Tinubu reached out. He comforted me. He did a lot for me then. This was someone who was my political enemy.”
Reflecting on this, Metuh said, “It is not really where you sow that you will reap. It is where God says you will reap. I wish PDP well. I gave my life to PDP, but I have moved on.”
Commitment to National Development
Metuh affirmed his commitment to supporting the federal government. He wants to help President Tinubu deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians. “I have seen the steps and the challenges,” he stated. “As a patriotic Nigerian, I want to join hands in resolving those challenges.”
Regarding concerns about Nigeria becoming a one-party state, Metuh dismissed the idea. He believes many credible figures exist in the opposition. “Atiku Abubakar is credible. Peter Obi is credible. David Mark is very credible,” he pointed out. “There are many such people.”
Previous Invitations from President Tinubu
Metuh revealed that President Tinubu had invited him to join the ruling party on several occasions. He had initially declined these offers.
“It took me a long time to get involved in politics,” he shared. “The president wanted to work with me. Even in 2015, after we lost the election, he reached out.”
He further explained, “When I left politics in 2022, he called me to join his party. I refused. After he won the election, I saw him. He again asked me to join, saying he needed me. I still refused then, as I had stopped politics.”
Now, his stance has changed. “Now that I’m in politics, I want to help,” Metuh said. “Perhaps I can be a good voice on this side. I want to ensure the polity is good. We need space in our democracy. We need to grow it. We need vibrant opposition. People need to express their views. We need to do all sorts.”
About the Author
