The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims that politicians who defect to the ruling party are shielded from investigation or prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The party’s National Vice Chairman (North East), Mustapha Salihu, said joining the APC does not confer immunity, stressing that the administration of President Bola Tinubu maintains a firm zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
Salihu spoke on Saturday night at his private residence in Yola, Adamawa State, while addressing journalists on public perceptions linking political defections to protection from anti-corruption agencies. He described the narrative as a deliberate attempt to undermine the Tinubu administration, insisting that accountability remains non-negotiable.
His remarks followed criticism by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, who accused the APC of becoming a refuge for politicians allegedly evading EFCC scrutiny. Babachir had claimed the ruling party was turning into “a haven for EFCC fugitives” and alleged that it planned to manipulate the 2027 elections.
Responding, Salihu dismissed the allegations as baseless and challenged critics to provide evidence rather than make sweeping claims. He urged anyone with credible proof against any APC member to submit a formal petition, noting that the party would not shield anyone found culpable.
“A lot of APC chieftains have done free bargain, and they are returning money. Anyone that stole money will be prosecuted, even if you join APC, because this administration has zero tolerance for corruption, as corruption killed the economy of the country,” he said.
Salihu also reflected on the origins of the APC, explaining that the party was formed as a coalition to remove former President Goodluck Jonathan from power. He noted that ideological differences later emerged, separating policy-driven members from those interested solely in power.
“Those who were power-seeking eventually left, but those committed to governance and policy remained to build the country,” he said.
Turning to the opposition, Salihu predicted that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would not survive beyond the 2027 general elections, describing it as a power-seeking alliance lacking cohesion. According to him, conflicting presidential ambitions within the ADC would inevitably trigger internal crises and defections.
On speculation that Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri could defect to the APC, Salihu said political negotiations are not conducted publicly, adding that the APC remains open to welcoming new members.
“Our job in APC is to woo everyone into the party. It is undemocratic to stop anyone from joining a group of their choice,” he said, adding that while he would welcome Fintiri into the APC, the decision ultimately rests with the governor.
