A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Chief Ayiri Emami, has delivered a message to recent defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP): there will be no automatic tickets or special privileges.
Speaking on Saturday to a large gathering of APC faithful in Warri, Delta State, Emami emphasized that the party’s doors may be open, but it’s seats are not reserved. His declaration comes amid growing speculation that some ex-PDP members are expecting preferential treatment after their defection to the ruling party.
“It’s a lie to assume that defecting into the APC guarantees you a political position,” Emami stated firmly. “There is no such arrangement. Every position; whether in Warri South, Warri South-West, or Warri North, will be contested fairly. Everyone must earn their place.”
This no-nonsense stance shows the APC’s commitment to internal democracy and competitive politics as the race toward 2027 intensifies. Emami’s comments are also seen as a move to reassure long-standing party loyalists amid fears that new entrants may disrupt existing political equations.
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While throwing down the gauntlet to new members, Emami also praised the APC’s current leadership, crediting President Bola Tinubu for expanding the party’s base and increasing its popularity. “Without the impressive performance of President Tinubu, we wouldn’t be seeing this wave of defections,” Emami noted.
The meeting in Warri was a political powerhouse event, drawing influential figures including Delta South Senatorial Chairman, Austin Oribioye; Prince Yemi Emiko; and Sir Amorighoye Sunny Mene, all of whom applauded Emami’s clarity and firmness.
In a dramatic climax to the gathering, former Delta lawmaker, Daniel Mayuku, moved a motion to adopt President Tinubu as the APC’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. The motion was seconded by Hon. Mofe Matthew Edema and received unanimous approval from party members in attendance.
