The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has assured long-standing members of the party that new entrants will not be allowed to dominate or take over its leadership structures.
Yilwatda gave the assurance after a closed-door meeting with stakeholders of the party in the Federal Capital Territory, stressing the need to balance the interests of both legacy members and recent defectors.
Describing the APC as a “home built by its founding members,” he cautioned against any attempt by newcomers to assume control of the party’s structure.
“If the house was not built, nobody would come. So no one should come in and try to take over,” he said.
However, the APC chairman emphasised that inclusiveness remains central to the party’s philosophy. He explained that a structured power-sharing arrangement would ensure that both old and new members are fairly represented without sidelining anyone.
According to him, the party has adopted a multi-dimensional formula to guide leadership distribution in the FCT. This includes gender balance, equitable representation across the six geopolitical zones, inclusion of indigenous groups, and active youth participation.
Yilwatda also confirmed the role of a committee led by Zephaniah Jisalo, Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, noting that the panel had successfully handled zoning arrangements for the FCT chapter of the party.
He expressed satisfaction with the process so far, stating that no party member had raised concerns of marginalization, and assured that the APC constitution would be strictly followed in upcoming congresses.
On the issue of defectors seeking leadership positions, Yilwatda made it clear that due process must be followed. He said such individuals must present valid resignation letters from their former parties, duly acknowledged by their previous party leadership.
He also reiterated the party’s stance on tenure limits, noting that members who have occupied a position for eight consecutive years must step aside or move to a different office.
Highlighting his leadership philosophy, the APC chairman stressed that inclusion is non-negotiable. He pointed out that his own emergence as chairman reflects the party’s commitment to giving opportunities to minorities.
Yilwatda further called for greater recognition of women in politics, urging that they be given substantive leadership roles rather than being engaged only during election campaigns.