A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has called on some former ministers who left the ruling party to return, expressing dismay over their current political alignment.
Igbokwe specifically urged former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; former Minister of Solid Minerals, Kayode Fayemi; and former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, to return to the APC.
In a post on X, Igbokwe lamented their association with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that it made him feel sick.
“I want HE Amaechi, HE Fayemi, HE Aregbesola, HE Kwankwaso, and others to move back to APC. Seeing them in Atiku’s camp makes me want to vomit,” Igbokwe wrote.
His call comes amid growing tensions within the APC, particularly in Osun State, where the party recently expelled Aregbesola over alleged anti-party activities.
The Osun State chapter of the APC announced Aregbesola’s expulsion, citing a violation of Article 21 of the party’s constitution, which outlines disciplinary measures for members.
The decision was confirmed in an official letter signed by the state chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, and secretary, Alao Olabisi Kamoru.
The party accused Aregbesola, a two-term governor of Osun, of actions that undermined the unity and integrity of the APC.
Aregbesola had previously led a faction within the party, The Osun Progressives (TOP), which was later rebranded as the Omoluabi Caucus.
Meanwhile, Amaechi has joined those criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to actively fight for power rather than expect it to be handed to them.
Speaking recently, the former minister claimed that politicians, including Tinubu, would not willingly relinquish power.
“You are talking and abusing everybody. Nobody has power and will give it to you—not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one,” Amaechi stated.
He further alleged that the goal of many politicians in Nigeria is to “steal, maim, and kill to remain in power,” warning that those expecting a smooth transition of leadership without resistance are misguided.
With growing political realignments ahead of the next election cycle, Igbokwe’s appeal underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC and prevent further defections within its ranks.