In a confident declaration, Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has predicted that Rivers State will soon become an APC stronghold.
Ganduje made this statement during an event held in Abuja, expressing optimism about the party’s future in Rivers.
“We are rebuilding and repositioning the APC chapter in Rivers State,” he said, emphasizing the party’s plans to increase its influence in the state.
The event also marked the return of Dr. Dawari Ibietela George, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Action Alliance (AA), who rejoined the APC in a move Ganduje described as a significant gain for the party.
Ganduje referred to George as a “big fish” and praised his political insight and capabilities, expressing hope that George’s return would help reshape the APC in Rivers State.
“Rivers State will be completely APC,” Ganduje declared, leaving no doubt about his expectations for the party’s growth in the region.
He welcomed George with open arms, assuring him and other returning members of equal status and respect within the party.
“You are now equal members with every other member of the party. We are committed to expanding democracy in Nigeria,” Ganduje affirmed.
Ganduje’s statement underscored his confidence in the APC’s plan to establish a strong presence in Rivers State, a region traditionally dominated by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The Abuja event was attended by several prominent APC leaders, showcasing the party’s solidarity and determination to welcome influential figures back into its ranks.
Among the attendees were members of the APC’s National Working Committee, including Chief Hon. Victor Giadom, the party’s Vice Chairman for the South-South, and Hon. Titsi Ganama, the 2023 APC Deputy Governorship candidate in Adamawa State.
Other prominent figures, such as former House of Representatives members Hon. Bimbo Daramola, Hon. Bello Ibrahim, Hon. Nadu Karibo, and Hon. Robinson Uwak, were also present.
In addition, Barrister Tonnie Anierohwom, who was AA’s Deputy Governorship candidate in Rivers State in 2023, was officially received into the APC.
The party leaders from Rivers State attended in full force, eager to witness and support George and his team as they returned to the APC fold.
This reunion, they believe, symbolizes a turning point for the APC’s aspirations in Rivers State.
Dr. George’s return to the APC was seen as a well-considered move, signifying a new phase of political alignment.
After rejoining the APC, George made a courtesy visit to the National Chairman of the Action Alliance, Chief Ken Udeze, to formally inform him of his decision to leave.
Udeze welcomed George’s respectful gesture, appreciating his transparency and integrity.
“The respect and cordiality we share will remain positively memorable for both of us,” Udeze said, acknowledging the mutual respect between the two political figures.
Udeze also praised George and his team for their dedication and contributions to the growth of the Action Alliance.
“Their efforts in the party’s development will leave an indelible mark,” Udeze added, underscoring the significance of George’s past efforts within the AA.
The APC, under Ganduje’s leadership, has been intensifying its efforts to expand its reach and strengthen its influence across the country.
Rivers State, a key political battleground, has traditionally leaned towards the PDP, making Ganduje’s declaration a bold and ambitious statement.
Political analysts see George’s return to the APC as part of a larger strategy to bring together influential figures and create a formidable opposition in Rivers.
Ganduje’s leadership has emphasized inclusivity, seeking to unite various political interests within the party while maintaining fairness and openness.
“We are embracing diverse interests,” Ganduje said, assuring both old and new party members of equal treatment within the APC.
