APC Risks Internal Division by Sidelining Founders

Okoi Obono-Obla, a former presidential aide, cautioned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) may weaken its internal cohesion by sidelining founding members in favor of newer entrants. His comments were a reaction to statements made by APC chieftain Cletus Obun during an interview.

Obono-Obla highlighted the critical role that early party loyalists played in establishing the APC during its formation in 2013, which was a merger of several opposition political parties, including the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and others. He noted that individuals like former national vice chairman for South-South, Hilliard Eta, and former Minister of State for Education, John Odei, are among those whose contributions should not be overlooked.

Obono-Obla argued that political parties naturally attract new members, but sustaining recognition for long-serving members is essential for unity. He urged APC leadership to adopt an inclusive approach to accommodate both pioneer members and newer entrants to strengthen the party ahead of future political contests.