Defections to APC Based on Confidence in Tinubu’s Leadership Gov. Bassey Otu

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu has declared that the growing wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is more than political strategy, but a clear vote of confidence in the President’s performance and leadership style.

Speaking during the APC South-South Conference held in Calabar, Governor Otu said the defections, which have seen prominent politicians from the opposition, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), crossing over to the ruling party, are a reflection of Tinubu’s impact and reform agenda, not mere political realignment.

“This gale of defections is not ordinary politics,” Otu stated. “It is evidence of the effectiveness of President Tinubu’s governance, the bold reforms he is undertaking, and the hope he is restoring across the country.

Nigerians are recognizing real leadership, and they are responding to it.”

The governor also revealed that President Tinubu had personally tasked him and other regional leaders with strengthening the APC’s base in the South-South zone, especially ahead of the 2024 Edo gubernatorial election.

“The President has mandated us to reclaim Edo and ensure the South-South is aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda,” he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, described the wave of political migration as a “referendum on Tinubu’s leadership.”

According to him, Nigerians are showing their approval not with protests or applause, but with their political choices.

Former lawmakers who recently joined the APC have also cited Tinubu’s bold reforms and visionary policies as key motivators.

Ossai Ossai, a former PDP House of Representatives member, described Tinubu as a “grand master of politics,” while Oghene Egoh praised the President’s Renewed Hope agenda as a blueprint for national transformation.

Political analysts remain divided on the long-term significance of these defections, with critics warning that personal ambitions may be driving some of the moves. Still, the prevailing message from the defectors is one of belief in Tinubu’s vision and a desire to contribute to the country’s progress under his administration.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the APC appears to be gaining momentum in traditionally opposition strongholds a development observers say could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.