ADC MP Abejide threatens to leave party over Tinubu criticism

Leke Abejide, the member of parliament representing Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency in Kogi State, has warned that he may leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) if conditions within the party become untenable.

Abejide made the remarks on Monday at the National Assembly Complex in response to recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu by the National Chairman of the ADC, Mr. Ralph Nwosu.

Last week, Nwosu accused President Tinubu of deploying security forces to suppress nationwide protests scheduled for August 1, 2024. Speaking in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, at the ADC state branch office and inauguration of the Youth Development Center, Nwosu expressed concern about the government’s approach to curbing the protests amid widespread economic hardship.

Nwosu commented, “This morning (Saturday), I tweeted: Why are you afraid of protests? You tell hungry people not to protest? And you have empowered the security forces with all the weapons to stop the protests, moving money from legislators everywhere. The executive members of the cabinet have given money to stop the protests.

“Why can’t you provide money for people to buy food? Is this a democracy or a dictatorship?” he asked.

Responding to Nwosu’s remarks, Abejide distanced himself from the ADC National Chairman’s comments, stating that if the situation within the party continues to deteriorate, “I will go back to my home.”

When asked if he would move to the ruling party, Abejide replied, “I will not leave the ADC, but if the situation gets heated, I will return home.”

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He recalled his decision to move from APC to ADC, citing internal party issues. “I was the leader of APC in Kogi State. Because of issues within the party, I ended up where I am (ADC) now.

“After the death of our leader, Alhaji Abubakar Audu, we all thought Abiodun Faleke would replace him. But when things did not go as planned, we thought the (Yahaya Bello) government would work with everyone. This did not happen and we are frustrated outside the APC.”

Abejide noted his support for Tinubu in the 2023 general elections, comparing it to Nwosu’s support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, noting, “The differences are already there.”

He stressed the importance of supporting the current administration, saying, “While I understand the concerns that have led to these calls for protest, and indeed share some of the sentiments, I must firmly oppose such action at this critical juncture in our nation’s journey.

“We cannot deny that our country is facing significant challenges. The cost of living has increased and many Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet. This is a real problem that requires our collective attention and efforts.

“However, it is precisely because of these challenges that we must unite behind a government that has shown extraordinary courage and vision in addressing our long-standing problems head-on,” Abejide said.

He appreciated President Tinubu’s efforts, citing several achievements such as economic stabilization, increased national security, and local government autonomy since taking office in May 2023. “The President has carefully sown seeds that will germinate and yield good results in both the short and long term, just as we plant annuals and perennials, thus requiring calculated patience,” Abejide concluded.

ADC MP Abejide threatens to leave party over Tinubu criticism first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.