Adamawa APC stronger than ever, poise to produce govt in 2027 – Mustapha Salihu
The North East National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, has described the internal challenges experienced by the party in Adamawa State as developmental challenges adding that the party has already put them behind it noting that robust changes and reforms have already strengthened the party.
Speaking during an interview with newsmen on Saturday, Salihu explained that post-election periods often come with blame trading, accusations, and counter-accusations, which sometimes result in the exit of aggrieved members.
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According to him, some party members advanced personal interests that were either unattainable or inconsistent with the collective interest of the party, while others perceived corrective leadership decisions as marginalization.
He also noted that leadership challenges arise when individuals refuse to recognize authority unless it is in their hands.
“You have to follow before you are followed,” he said.
Salihu described the current APC structure in Adamawa as unprecedented, stressing that for the first time, the party operates under a single line of command.
He said this clarity has eliminated confusion caused by multiple power centres that previously allowed conflict profiteers to thrive.
According to him, all remaining APC members in the state now respect and follow the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, whom he described as just, inclusive, and grassroots-oriented.
He explained that Ribadu’s leadership style encourages bottom-top communication, where information flows from the grassroots to the top and feedback is returned to the people. This, Salihu said, has restored harmony, peace, and unity within the party, making APC stronger and more cohesive in Adamawa.
Addressing claims that APC is pushing Nigeria toward a one-party system, Salihu dismissed the allegation as misleading. Drawing from political theory and global examples, he argued that political parties are built on ideology and policies, not coercion.
He explained that coalitions driven by power-seeking motives rarely last, while policy-driven alliances endure.
Using the APC merger that defeated former President Goodluck Jonathan as an example, Salihu said ideological realignment naturally led some elements to leave the party over time. He stressed that Nigerians have a constitutional right to freedom of association and disassociation, adding that stopping people from joining APC would itself be undemocratic.
Salihu further compared Nigeria’s democracy with that of other countries, noting that democratic systems mature over time. He argued that despite its challenges, Nigeria remains resilient and democratic, even under pressures that would destabilize other nations.
On APC’s electronic membership registration, Salihu said the initiative is designed to eliminate inflated figures and ensure a credible, verifiable database.
He explained that the e-registration is biometric-based, integrated with NIN and voter cards, and prevents multiple registrations.
Beyond verification, he said the database will help the party understand its demographics, target empowerment programmes, and institutionalize APC beyond individuals.
Speaking on preparations for future elections, Salihu disclosed massive investments in party building. He revealed that over ₦100 million has been disbursed in five months through “Operation 20 Millionaires,” producing hundreds of new millionaires among youths, women, and party executives.
He also said APC has funded local government election forms, campaign logistics, and empowerment programmes across the state.
According to him, every APC executive at the state and local government levels in Adamawa is now financially empowered to function effectively. He noted that with strong leadership, grassroots engagement, and sustained investment, the future of APC in Adamawa State is “very bright” ahead of 2027.
