APC Official Rejects Claim Party Is a Haven for Corruption Suspects

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed accusations that individuals joining the party are doing so to evade prosecution by anti-graft agencies.

Mustapha Salihu, the party’s National Vice Chairman for the North East, stated that such claims are intended to blackmail the administration of President Bola Tinubu, which he described as having a “zero tolerance for corruption.”

Salihu’s comments, made on Saturday night at his Yola residence, come in response to recent allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal.

Two months ago, Lawal labeled the APC as “a new haven for fugitives fleeing from the EFCC,” accusing the party of delusion and electoral manipulation.

“Anyone that stole money will be prosecuted, even if you join APC,” Salihu asserted. He challenged anyone with credible information on corrupt party chieftains to submit a petition, promising internal investigation and prosecution.

Reflecting on the party’s origins, Salihu described the APC as initially a “power-seeking coalition” formed to oust former President Goodluck Jonathan. He claimed that after achieving this goal, the “power-seeking” elements departed, leaving behind a “policy-seeking coalition” dedicated to national development.

He also commented on opposition dynamics, predicting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would not survive beyond the 2027 general elections because it is, in his view, a transient “power-seeking coalition” filled with presidential hopefuls unwilling to compromise.

Regarding speculation about Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri defecting to the APC, Salihu stated that political negotiations are conducted privately. “I will be happy if Fintiri joins my party today,” he said, while affirming that it is undemocratic to prevent anyone from joining a party of their choice.