A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Kenelayefa Stevens, has countered claims by former Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Yekini Nabena, that the party is on the verge of implosion due to recent defections. Nabena had expressed concerns over the party’s stability, citing the defection of Governor Douye Diri to the APC and criticizing the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Stevens dismissed Nabena’s comments as unfounded and misleading, questioning his political relevance and commitment to the party. He challenged Nabena to release his polling unit results from 2015 to date, arguing that politics is a results-driven endeavor and Nabena has consistently underperformed. Stevens suggested that Nabena’s comments are motivated by a desire to preserve the influence of his principal, Chief Timipre Sylva, and the Managing Director of the NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku.

Regarding Nabena’s claim that the APC does not need defecting governors, Stevens argued that this betrays a fundamental misunderstanding of political strategy. He emphasized that politics is a game of numbers and Governor Diri’s defection is a strategic gain that strengthens the party’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections. Stevens noted that Governor Diri has been welcomed by the majority of the party faithful, and his arrival opens new avenues for electoral success.

The Bayelsa APC chieftain also praised the competence of the current National Chairman, highlighting his administrative prowess and ability to harmonize diverse interests within the party. Stevens assured that the APC remains robust, inclusive, and forward-looking, and that no amount of fear-mongering or self-serving commentary will derail the party’s progress. He expressed confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and the party’s national executives, describing Governor Diri’s defection as a welcome development.

The debate highlights the ongoing dynamics within the APC, particularly in Bayelsa State, where Governor Diri’s defection has significant implications for the party’s electoral prospects. As the APC prepares for the 2027 general elections, the party’s ability to manage its internal dynamics and capitalize on strategic defections will be crucial to its success. With the APC’s national executives working to strengthen the party’s position, the outcome of the upcoming elections remains to be seen.