Embattled National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, on Tuesday got the support of some prominent leaders of the party who lauded his leadership qualities, describing him as “a man of honour, integrity and dignity.”

A statement issued in Abuja by the Chairman of APC United Front, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, described as laughable the calls by Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu “and his co-travellers” for Oyegun to resign as APC Chairman. The group said that the world has seen a more progressive party under Oyegun’s dynamic leadership

“Chief Odigie Oyegun is not under the influence of a powerful and sinister arm of government. He will never thwart the will of the people,” APC United Front said.

It praised the national chairman for his strategic roles in internal party governance and in the development and promulgation of party policy.

Listing intellectual depth, credible track record, futuristic vision and personal integrity as key requirements for a progressive leader, the group eulogised Oyegun for giving equal rights and opportunities to members of the APC regardless of status, class and affiliation.

“Leadership goes with creativity, sensitivity, compassion, innovation, courage, vision, character, competence, focus, passion, responsibility, self-discipline, service delivery and a very high dosage of patriotism. Oyegun is an embodiment of transparency and accountability,” the statement said.

It commended Oyegun for bringing about a more dynamic way of administering the affairs of the party, sacrificing his comfort to work tirelessly for the party and for allowing the wheel of democracy to run constitutionally.

“As a man with impeccable record in governance and party politics, Chief Odigie Oyegun will never derail from the path of honour,” the statement said.

It thanked Nigerians at home and abroad for the confidence reposed on Oyegun, applauding him for the pragmatic steps taken to address the problems in the party in Ondo State.

“Oyegun is an honest and highly effective leader. He has built a reputation anchored on integrity over the years. He is a fountain of quality advice, inspiration, encouragement and hope. He deserves the biggest thanks for being a team player and using his undivided and thorough leadership style in growing the party,” the statement said.

It pointed out “his commitment to principle in the practice of politics, the rule of law and the best democratic tradition of fairness as some of the attributes that brought him into collision with Tinubu and others.” APC United Front commended Oyegun “for enriching the development journey of the party and the country.”

It described the decision of the Appeal Panel as selfish.

“Oyegun is honest, dedicated, committed, and God fearing. He is a consummate politician, proven administrator and a bridge builder. He is a man of honour, integrity and dignity,” the statement said.

While describing Oyegun as a true democrat, a hardworking, progressive person and leader with credibility, character and calm, APC United Front advised him to continue with his good work.

It also advised Tinubu “not to destroy the party with his selfish and anti-democratic agenda.”

•Photo shows Oyegun.

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