By Emmanuel Kwada
In a fiery rejoinder, the Forum of Former ANPP Members has issued a scathing rebuttal to a press statement by Mr. Vitalis Ajumbe, accusing him of spreading falsehoods, engaging in political blackmail, and attempting to destabilize the All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement, signed by Forum Chairman Umar Dauda Duhu, LLM, Ph.D., and Secretary Hon. Rasaq Folorunso, was released on Tuesday in response to Ajumbe’s claims made in Abuja on July 28, 2025, which the Forum described as “patently false, misleading, and self-serving.”
Ajumbe’s press statement alleged that former members of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), now integrated into the APC, had agreed to abandon the party if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not support a candidate from their ranks for the 2031 presidency.
The Forum categorically dismissed this claim as a “blatant falsehood,” asserting that no such agreement or discussion ever took place. “We never participated in any meeting, discussion, or agreement that would warrant such a claim,” the statement read, demanding that Ajumbe provide evidence to substantiate his allegations or face accusations of deliberate misrepresentation.
The Forum expressed outrage at what it described as Ajumbe’s “audacious” attempt to issue veiled threats against President Tinubu, particularly his insinuation that former ANPP members would defect if one of their own is not included on the 2027 APC presidential ticket alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima.
We never participated in any meeting, discussion, or agreement that would warrant such a claim
Labeling this as “political blackmail,” the Forum condemned Ajumbe’s remarks as not only disrespectful but also a calculated move to incite instability within the APC. “What empirical evidence does Ajumbe possess to suggest that President Tinubu would not run on the APC ticket in 2027 with Vice President Shettima?” the Forum questioned, dismissing his assertions as “mere speculation and conjecture” designed to sow discord.
Adding weight to their rebuttal, the Forum highlighted that Ajumbe lacks the authority to speak on their behalf, accusing him of usurping their platform in a manner that constitutes a “blatant breach of the principles of natural justice and fairness.”
What empirical evidence does Ajumbe possess to suggest that President Tinubu would not run on the APC ticket in 2027 with Vice President Shettima?
They revealed that Ajumbe is no longer a member of the APC, having voluntarily withdrawn his membership before the 2023 presidential elections. “His current stance is a clear attempt to destabilize the party and cause disaffection amongst its members,” the statement noted, urging the APC leadership to treat Ajumbe’s claims “with the contempt they deserve.”
The Forum’s response also addressed Ajumbe’s broader tactics, criticizing his use of “megaphone diplomacy” to make unsubstantiated demands and drop names of respected APC leaders. “When we wish to dialogue with Mr. President on political issues, we certainly know the proper channel to do so and not by throwing stones at our glass house,” the statement declared, emphasizing the existence of established protocols for constructive engagement with the President and party leadership.
The Forum condemned Ajumbe’s public antics as “unbecoming and irresponsible,” arguing that they undermine party cohesion and create unnecessary tension.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the APC, the Forum of Former ANPP Members distanced itself from Ajumbe’s statement, pledging to uphold the party’s constitution and democratic principles.
They clarified that President Tinubu will not impose a successor for the 2031 presidency, emphasizing that any candidate must emerge through democratic processes as outlined in the APC constitution and Nigeria’s Electoral Act. “Aspiring members should contest and earn the presidency through democratic means,” the Forum stated, underscoring Tinubu’s role as a supporter of a chosen candidate rather than an enforcer of decisions.
The rejoinder comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity in Nigeria, with the APC navigating internal dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections. Ajumbe’s statement, which the Forum described as an attempt to “exacerbate a crisis where none exists,” risks fueling speculation about the party’s future leadership and electoral strategy.
The Forum’s swift response aims to quell such tensions, reassuring APC members and supporters of their commitment to unity, progress, and development.
His current stance is a clear attempt to destabilize the party and cause disaffection amongst its members
The Forum also called on the public to disregard Ajumbe’s statement in its entirety, framing it as a desperate bid by a non-member to undermine the APC’s stability. “We remain committed to the APC’s ideals and principles,” the statement affirmed. “We shall continue to uphold the rule of law, promote democratic values, and ensure that the APC remains a symbol of unity and progress.”
This development follows other regional efforts to foster unity and address crises, such as the Gongola Peoples Forum’s call for solidarity with flood victims in Adamawa State and Hon. Kobis Ari Thimnu’s empowerment programme for farmers in Guyuk/Shelleng. The Forum’s rebuttal underscores the broader need for constructive dialogue and respect for party structures to maintain political stability in Nigeria.
As the APC prepares for future electoral contests, the Forum of Former ANPP Members has sent a clear message: attempts to sow division or manipulate narratives will be met with resolute opposition. With their commitment to the APC’s vision unwavering, the Forum stands as a bulwark against destabilizing forces, rallying party faithful to protect the legacy of unity and progress championed by President Tinubu and the APC leadership.
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