Be informed about govt. policies, contribute to constructive dialogue – Abejide tells ADC Nwosu

…Threatens To Dump ADC for APC for over leadership crisis

By Christiana Ekpa

The lawmaker representing Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency in Kogi State, has threatened to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the ADC Chairman keep taken action that affects the well been of Nigeria and Nigerians without proper consideration.
This was just as Abejide urged Nigerians and it’s party Chairman to stay informed about government policies and contribute to constructive dialogue on their implementation, stressing that energy should be channel into these constructive actions rather than protests that may derail our progress.
Briefing newsmen at National Assembly Complex, Abejide distanced from the recent criticism by ADC National Chairman, Mr. Ralph Nwosu, of President Bola Tinubu.
Recall that last week, Nwosu had accused President Tinubu of transferring funds and deploying security agents nationwide to prevent the protest scheduled for August 1, 2024.
Nwosu, who spoke in Uyo during the official commissioning of the Akwa Ibom State Office Chapter and the Youth Development Centre of the party, expressed concern over the government’s plan to halt the nationwide protest amidst the economic hardships being experienced across the country.
Nwosu stated, “This morning (Saturday), I tweeted: Why are you afraid of protests? You are telling people who are hungry not to protest while you empower security forces with all the resources to stop them. Money is being moved from legislators and distributed everywhere. Executive cabinet members are giving out money to suppress the protest.
“Why can’t you use that money to help people buy food? Is this a democracy or a dictatorship?” he questioned.
Addressing the recent comments by Ralph Nwosu, the only lawmaker from o the African Democratic Congress, in the National Assembly, while expressed his concern over the planned protests against the government, the Kogi Lawmaker said, “ I want to express my stand . While I acknowledge and share some of the concerns that have prompted this call for protest, I must firmly oppose such actions at this crucial moment in our nation’s progress.

Abejide, expressed his dissatisfaction with the remarks made by Nwosu while addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday. He distanced himself from those comments and stated that if the current situation persists, he might consider stepping away from his role.

When questioned about potentially joining the ruling party, Abejide clarified, “I am not leaving the ADC, but if the pressure becomes overwhelming, I may return to my home.”

He recalled the events that culminated in his decision to swap APC to join ADC.

“I was a leader of the APC in Kogi State. It was because of the problems in the party that I landed where (ADC) I am today.

“After the passing of our leader, Alhaji Abubakar Audu, many of us expected Abiodun Faleke to succeed him. When this did not materialize, we hoped that the Yahaya Bello administration would include everyone in its plans. Unfortunately, this was not the case, which led to our eventual departure from the APC.”

Abejide noted that in the 2023 elections, he supported Bola Tinubu, while Nwosu backed the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. He pointed out that this difference in political support has long been evident.

He emphasized the importance of supporting the President to advance the nation. “Imagine local governments, now empowered by financial autonomy, addressing community needs directly without interference. Additionally, consider the transformative impact of the 2023 Electricity Bill, which liberalizes the power sector and paves the way for decentralized electricity generation, transmission, and distribution across the country.”

“These are not distant aspirations but tangible achievements and ongoing projects under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The significant progress made in just over a year in office demonstrates that Nigeria is on a clear path toward sustainable development, economic growth, and an enhanced quality of life for all its citizens,” he added.

“Our country is indeed facing significant challenges. The rising cost of living has put many Nigerians in difficult situations. These are pressing issues that need our collective focus and action.