Nicholas Ossai has defected to APC, citing the breakdown of the PDP umbrella, and pledged to champion the “Asiwaju Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Wednesday officially welcomed former House of Representatives member, Nicholas Ossai, following his defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

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Ossai, who had previously represented the Ndokwa West State Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly before transitioning to the federal legislative chamber, cited the desire to bring meaningful development to his constituents as his primary reason for switching allegiance.

Ossai, addressing journalists in Abuja, expressed confidence that the APC offers the best platform to achieve his vision for the development of his people.

He praised the leadership of the APC and described President Bola Tinubu as his role model, further stating that his decision to join the ruling party marked the beginning of the end for PDP dominance in his state.

“I have been in the PDP for some time now, but the umbrella has broken down,” Ossai remarked. “We have always regarded the President as a role model and he is still my role model. Today, I have no other place than to come to APC to work for him and strengthen his government.”

The Delta politician made it clear that he was joining the APC with the support of his followers and had already received his membership card. He also highlighted his involvement in a recent APC senatorial meeting, indicating his full commitment to the party.

“I am one of your foot soldiers in Delta who has come to declare personally before you today and to tell you that I will abide by the rules, laws, and constitution governing the APC,” Ossai affirmed. “I will go back to Delta State to champion Asiwaju Renewed Hope Agenda, which is great.”

In welcoming Ossai, the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, emphasised that the defection of a seasoned politician like him was a clear indication that the opposition party is no longer a viable option for Nigerians. Basiru asserted that the APC is growing stronger as the country begins to see the positive impact of President Tinubu’s policies.

“It is my joy to welcome you, not only to the headquarters of the APC but to the vault of the progressives who are working seriously to renew the hope of the Nigerian people,” Basiru said. “One of our cardinal objectives is to revitalise the party and bring in seasoned politicians who are capable of ensuring that the APC continues to win elections.”

The APC National Secretary also expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, stressing that the President had garnered widespread support, especially among younger politicians. He further criticised the opposition, particularly the PDP, for its internal crises and lack of proper coordination.

“The question is, can Nigerians trust a party that cannot even put its house in order to rule the country?” Basiru remarked. “So, thank you for abandoning that already dilapidated structure.”