PHOTOS: Shettima welcomes Fintiri to APC, says defection strengthens party ahead of 2027

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday formally received Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri into the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the governor and his supporters as partners in the party’s vision to build a functional Nigeria rather than new entrants.

Speaking at a reception held at the Mahmud Ribadu Square in Yola, Shettima said Fintiri’s defection reflects the responsibility of political leaders to make decisions that strengthen democratic institutions.

“You are not strangers to this house. You are partners in a shared mission to build a nation that works, a democracy that delivers, and a future that rewards the aspirations of our people,” the Vice President said while welcoming the governor on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

He described democracy as a platform for choices and ideas, adding that the APC under Tinubu has demonstrated progressive leadership capable of attracting more political actors.

APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda also praised Fintiri’s developmental strides, especially in road construction, education and healthcare, saying the governor’s achievements made him a natural fit for the ruling party.

Similarly, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau described the defection as a bold political decision that would position Adamawa within the mainstream of national politics.

Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said the APC remains the only party driven by a clear development blueprint, citing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a pathway to national transformation.

In his remarks, Fintiri said his decision to join the APC was based on the need to align with the policies of the Tinubu administration, which he said were already repositioning Nigeria’s economy.