Yesterday, President Bola Tinubu said he is expecting more members of opposition political parties to join the All Progressives Congress, APC, before the 2027 general elections.
Earlier, a wave of defections has hit some opposition political parties including the Peoples Democratica Party, Labour Party and New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP.
In Delta PDP, governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and the PDP structure in the state, recently moved to the APC.
Similarly, six members of the House of Representatives from Delta State constituencies announced their defections to the APC.
Also, members of the Delta State House of Assembly, including the Speaker, Mr. Emomotimi Guwor, formally defected from the PDP to the APC.
In Edo State, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, two other lawmakers, Sunny Ifada and Yekini Idaiye and former council chairmen pitched their tents with the APC.
In Kano State, Senator Kawu Sumaila and some members of the House of Representatives representing various constituencies moved from the NNPP to the ruling party.
President Tinubu yesterday emphasised that the constitution of Nigeria guarantees freedom of movement and association.
He also endorsed the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, describing him as a member of the think-tank team.
President Tinubu who spoke at the National Summit of the APC, with the theme: `Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey so far’ held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, said it’s one party that is ruling and driving the aspirations of Nigerians.
He said, “Before I speak, I just need to tell those saying one party system is not good, it’s one party ruling and driving the aspirations of Nigerians. Where do they stand?
“You don’t blame a people bailing out of a sinking ship when there is no life jacket. I am glad about what we have and I am expecting more to come. That is the game. We are in a constitutional democracy. Don’t forget the freedom of movement and association are not criminally punishable. Welcome to the progressives. Sweep them clean.
“We will lead you on to that promised land. The resuscitation of the Nigerian economy is on course, the hope is standing before you, take it on.
“You are the leaders and the conscience of this country. Nigeria will be industrialized. The next two years will be great. We have the mission, we have the vision. To many of you I have not offered political positions, be patient, many things are coming.”
