By Ismaeel Aleem
The All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, has declared that it maintains a remarkably low defection rate compared to the influx of new members joining daily.
This assertion was made by the party’s National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on Wednesday, 17 September 2025.
Yilwatda highlighted the party’s ongoing efforts to engage with former members who have left, emphasising that the the ruling party remains their political home.
“We have minimal defection. Very minimal compared to people who are trooping in every day,” he stated, underscoring the party’s growing appeal.
He pointed to the return of prominent figures, including members of the National Assembly, State Assemblies, and governors, as evidence of the the party’s enduring popularity.
The chairman’s remarks come amidst a dynamic political landscape as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the influx of members from other political parties demonstrates the party’s status as the nation’s most preferred political platform.
“If you look at the members of the National Assembly, State Assemblies, and governors who are trooping back to the APC from other political parties, it tells you that APC is still the most preferred political party, and we are still receiving more people,” Yilwatda said.
While acknowledging that a small number of defections may occur, he downplayed their significance in light of the party’s expanding membership.
