By Emmanuel Kwada
In a charged press conference held yesterday, former members of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), led by Dr. Umar D. Duhu, addressed what they describe as a deliberate attempt to downplay their contributions to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event, titled “Setting the Record Straight on the APC Merger,” sought to clarify historical narratives and reaffirm support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration while calling for unity within the party.
Dr. Duhu, a former ANPP stalwart and the National Coordinator of the group, opened the conference by emphasizing the need to correct misconceptions about the APC’s origins.
“It is contentious and unimaginable that the ANPP’s role in the merger is being deliberately downplayed, while the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) is being unduly elevated,” he stated, setting a firm tone for the discussion.
The APC was formed in 2013 through the merger of several political parties, including the ANPP, CPC, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
It is contentious and unimaginable that the ANPP’s role in the merger is being deliberately downplayed, while the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) is being unduly elevated
Dr. Duhu highlighted the significant influence of the ANPP at the time of the merger, noting that the party had three executive governors, compared to the CPC’s single governor and the ACN’s five. “The strength and diversity each legacy party brought to the table must be acknowledged,” he insisted.
A key point of contention raised during the conference was the narrative surrounding former President Muhammadu Buhari’s electoral success. Dr. Duhu debunked the myth that Buhari’s 12 million votes in the 2015 and 2019 elections were solely attributable to the CPC.
“Those votes were a testament to President Buhari’s personal appeal, sympathy votes, and leadership, not the CPC alone,” he clarified.
Those votes were a testament to President Buhari’s personal appeal, sympathy votes, and leadership, not the CPC alone
He also pointed out that the CPC enjoyed significant influence during Buhari’s eight-year tenure, countering claims of marginalization under Tinubu’s current administration.
While expressing openness to the CPC producing the next APC National Chairman, Dr. Duhu issued a stern warning against any attempts by the CPC to dominate the present government at the expense of other merger partners.
“We will not relent until justice is served, and the contributions of all legacy parties are recognized and respected,” he declared, signaling a readiness to push back against any perceived imbalances.
We remain committed to working with President Tinubu to achieve his vision for a better Nigeria
Despite the grievances, Dr. Duhu reaffirmed the group’s unwavering support for President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. He described the Tinubu-Shettima ticket as a “winning team,” citing Tinubu’s experience as a seasoned administrator and Shettima’s background as a former governor and senator.
“We remain committed to working with President Tinubu to achieve his vision for a better Nigeria,” he affirmed, urging party members to avoid infighting and rally behind the administration.
The press conference also served as a call to action for Nigerians to support the Tinubu-Shettima administration as they approach the 2027 elections. Dr. Duhu emphasized the importance of allowing the duo to fulfill their mandate without distractions, stating, “This administration has the potential to deliver on its campaign promises and take Nigeria to the desired level, but only if we allow them to focus on governance.”
Reflecting on the APC’s achievements, Dr. Duhu acknowledged strides in infrastructure, economic growth, and social welfare programs under the party’s leadership.
However, he admitted that challenges remain and pledged the former ANPP members’ commitment to addressing them alongside Tinubu’s team. “We will continue to advocate for policies that benefit all Nigerians, regardless of party affiliation,” he added.
We will not be silenced, and we will not be ignored,
The conference concluded with a promise of continued engagement with the public and media to ensure their position is heard. “We will not be silenced, and we will not be ignored,” Dr. Duhu asserted, inviting Nigerians to join the conversation for a united, prosperous, and just Nigeria.
The event has sparked discussions within political circles, with analysts noting that the former ANPP members’ stance could influence the APC’s internal dynamics as the party prepares for future elections.
