Cites Tinubu’s economic failures; calls for united opposition

Former Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Dr Isaac Lucky Yargwa, who formally defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared that the ruling party has failed Nigerians and that a new political direction is urgently needed ahead of the 2027 elections.

In an interview with journalists on Monday in Lafia, Dr Yargwa said his decision to leave the APC was driven by the “harsh socio-economic realities” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stressing that the party had lost its identity and internal democratic values both nationally and in Nasarawa State.

According to him, “APC, under the current administration, has come with hardship and misery. It has skyrocketed poverty, insecurity, and suffering in virtually every household. Any right-thinking Nigerian will understand why we need an alternative government.”

Dr Yargwa, who played a key role in Governor Abdullahi Sule’s re-election campaign as co-chairman for Wamba Local Government and co-director of youth mobilisation, said his loyalty to the governor remained intact despite his departure from the party. He described Governor Sule as a mentor and father figure, but said respect for the governor was not a reason to continue supporting APC’s national failures.

He described APC in Nasarawa as factionalised and hijacked by “new entrants whose interest is to undermine the governor ahead of 2027”, making genuine stakeholder input near impossible. “The party’s structures are being manipulated and internal democracy no longer exists,” he said.

Explaining his choice of ADC, Dr Yargwa argued that the party offered a credible alternative for Nigerians seeking unity, integrity, and meaningful governance, noting its nearly two decades of existence and inclusive leadership.

“ADC is not just another political vehicle. It is a platform for Nigerians who want an alternative. Many political actors from APC are quietly supporting ADC because they recognise the need for reform,” he maintained.

Regarding worries that defections could destabilise ADC, Yargwa said the party was fundamentally different, driven by principle rather than personal ambition, and that his own move three months ago had been smooth and widely accepted.

On national cross-party collaborations, Yargwa welcomed alliances with prominent opposition figures such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Nasir El-Rufai, believing their involvement could strengthen the push for reforms and good governance.

He emphasised ADC’s status as a rallying point for those disillusioned by APC, PDP and mainstream parties, urging Nigerians to unite for national redemption.

On Nasarawa politics, Yargwa endorsed Barrister Mohammed Abdullahi, a key figure in ADC, praising his experience at all levels and describing him as ready to deliver sustainable development in 2027.

“Barrister Mohammed has the pedigree, experience, and vision. He has served at all three levels of government. When he becomes governor, he will hit the ground running. Our focus is on planning, consultation, and delivering a blueprint for sustainable development,” Yargwa said.

Urging Nasarawa voters to embrace ADC, Yargwa called on them to avoid remaining trapped in hardship and to choose a new direction. “This is the time for courage and vision. APC has represented hardship and corruption for too long. ADC is offering a genuine alternative. I encourage every eligible voter to obtain their membership cards and mobilise for change,” he declared.

He appealed especially to young Nigerians to rewrite the country’s political story in 2027 by electing leaders committed to development, security, and prosperity. “Nigeria cannot continue on this path of economic collapse and insecurity. The Naira is worthless, poverty is widespread, and government is failing. Change is not just possible—it is necessary.”

Dr Yargwa reaffirmed his commitment to mobilising grassroots support for ADC in Nasarawa, saying his move signals a new era in the state’s politics ahead of the 2027 elections. (SUN)