ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has assured longstanding members that recent defectors into the party will not be allowed to hijack its leadership structures.
Speaking after a closed-door meeting with Federal Capital Territory stakeholders in Abuja, Yilwatda drew a firm line between legacy members and new entrants, insisting that while both groups would be accommodated, neither would dominate the other.
“It is a home that we built. If the house was not built, nobody will come, so nobody should come as a warrior and take over,” he said.
The APC chairman explained that the party would adopt a deliberate power-sharing formula aimed at balancing interests across all blocs.
“We must have everybody included; there will be a sharing formula that will ensure that all members of the legacy group and defectors are properly carried along,” Yilwatda said.
Outlining the structure for the FCT chapter, he revealed a five-dimensional framework designed to ensure inclusiveness. This, he said, includes gender representation, geopolitical balance across the six zones, inclusion of indigenous FCT communities, and youth participation.
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He stressed that women must be given substantive executive roles, rather than being confined to traditional positions.
Yilwatda also confirmed the existence of a committee chaired by Zephaniah Jisalo, Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, noting that the panel had already completed zoning arrangements for the FCT chapter.
According to him, the committee’s recommendations have been fully implemented without complaints from party members.
He further stated that the party’s constitution would be strictly enforced in upcoming congresses, warning defectors seeking leadership positions to formally resign from their former parties.
“If you are in opposition, you must give a resignation letter and show evidence of resignation and acceptance of your resignation by your former party chairman,” he said.
Reiterating rules on tenure, Yilwatda noted that any member who has held a position for eight consecutive years must step down or move to another office.
He also emphasised inclusion as the cornerstone of his leadership philosophy, citing his own background as a minority.
“We must accommodate all tribes. I am chairing this party because of inclusion. If there is no inclusion, I can’t be here because my tribe is only found in two local governments of this country. I am a minority,” he said.
The APC chairman added that women should not be engaged only during election periods but must be recognised as key stakeholders in governance and party administration.