Top stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshewe, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, and former Plateau Governor Senator Simon Lalong, on Saturday attended a grand reception for newly decampees into the party in Plateau State.

The Governors of Nasarawa and Benue States were also in attendance.

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio said the massive influx of decampees into the APC reflects the growing national acceptance of the party and serves as a strong endorsement of the Renewed Hope Administration.

He assured the new members of fairness, inclusion, and ample opportunity to contribute to the growth and electoral success of the APC at all levels, including the presidency, governorship, and legislative seats.

APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshewe declared that the party is poised for a decisive victory in the next elections. He said the party is stronger and more united than ever, boosted by the return of key political actors, including individuals who opposed the APC in the last elections.

Prof. Goshewe urged continued cohesion under the leadership of President Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda he said is already transforming Nigeria.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu expressed satisfaction with the rising influence of the APC both in Plateau and across the country, noting that it continues to attract prominent figures from opposition parties.

Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum and Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, said Plateau remains a stronghold of the APC despite being in the opposition at the state level. He noted that the party’s rising profile has even attracted members of the current state administration, reflecting sustained public confidence in the APC.

Leader of the APC in Plateau State, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, described the event as a “moment of vindication,” affirming that the party has remained resilient despite attempts to weaken it.

Lalong criticized the current PDP-led administration in Plateau State for actions including the dismissal of elected local government chairmen, permanent secretaries, civil servants, and heads of institutions, as well as the suspension of ongoing legacy projects. He said the people of Plateau recognize the contrast and have chosen to remain steadfast with the APC.

Plateau State APC Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, welcomed the new members and assured them of equal opportunities within the party.

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, a former Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang—who also once chaired the APC in the state—said they left the PDP due to deceit, oppression, and a failure of governance.

He added that the decampees are inspired by the leadership of President Tinubu, the national direction under Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and the steadfastness of Senator Simon Lalong in sustaining the APC’s presence in Plateau State.