APC chair rules out takeover by defectors, promises balanced power-sharing

The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nantewe Yilwatda, has assured longstanding members that recent defectors will not be allowed to dominate the party’s leadership structures.

Speaking after a closed-door meeting with Federal Capital Territory stakeholders in Abuja, Yilwatda stressed that while the party remains open to new entrants, it would protect the interests of founding members.

He drew a clear line between legacy members and newcomers, warning that those joining the party should not attempt to displace those who built it.

“It is a home that we built. If the house were not built, nobody would come, so nobody should come as a warrior and take over,” he said.

At the same time, he signalled that the party would adopt a structured approach to inclusion, ensuring both groups are accommodated without conflict.

Inclusion strategy targets balance across gender, regions, and youth

Yilwatda outlined a multi-layered power-sharing formula designed to reflect diversity within the party, particularly in the FCT structure.

According to him, the arrangement would prioritise gender inclusion by placing women in substantive executive roles, while also ensuring representation across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, indigenous FCT communities, and young people.

He confirmed that a committee led by Zephaniah Jisalo had already conducted zoning for the FCT chapter, adding that its recommendations had been strictly followed without complaints from members.

The APC chairman also set conditions for defectors seeking leadership positions, insisting they must formally resign from their former parties and provide documented proof of acceptance.

He reiterated the party’s constitutional stance on tenure limits, noting that members who have held a position for eight consecutive years must step aside or move to another role.

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Framing his position as a broader political philosophy, Yilwatda said inclusion remains central to the party’s survival, arguing that no group, regardless of size or influence, should be excluded from its structure.