APC Chieftain Faults Nabena’s Claims, Says Party Gaining Strength with Diri’s Defection

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Kenelayefa Stevens, has dismissed as unfounded and misleading, the recent comments made by former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, Yekini Nabena, alleging that the APC is on the verge of implosion following a series of defections.

In a statement on Thursday, Stevens described Nabena’s remarks as “a desperate attempt to remain politically relevant,” insisting that the APC remains united, stable, and strengthened by the defection of Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, to its fold.

“It is difficult to take seriously the opinion of someone who, on election day, chooses the comfort of a hotel room over active participation in the field,” Stevens said. “I challenge Mr. Nabena to publish his polling unit results from 2015 to date. Let the facts speak to his commitment, or lack thereof, to the APC. Politics is not a platform for empty rhetoric; it is a results-driven endeavour, and in this regard, Mr. Nabena has consistently underperformed.”

Stevens alleged that Nabena’s comments were part of a “calculated effort to preserve the waning influence of his principal,” motivated by fears that Governor Diri’s entry into the APC could alter the political equilibrium in Bayelsa State.

Responding to Nabena’s assertion that the APC does not need defecting governors, Stevens maintained that such a statement betrays a poor understanding of political strategy.

“Politics is, and always will be, a game of numbers. Governor Diri’s defection is a strategic gain that strengthens our party’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he said. “Contrary to Mr. Nabena’s fears, Governor Diri has proven himself to be a unifier and an inclusive leader, committed to working with all stakeholders for the collective good.”

He praised Diri’s leadership style, describing him as a bridge-builder whose arrival has been received with enthusiasm by party faithful across the state. “His inclusion opens new avenues for electoral success both at the state and national levels,” Stevens noted.

The APC chieftain also commended the National Chairman of the party, describing him as a competent administrator capable of harmonizing diverse interests within the ruling party.

“Under his stewardship, the APC is not only stable but also poised for continued victories,” Stevens said, adding that the party remains robust, inclusive, and forward-looking.

He urged members to ignore “fear-mongering and self-serving commentaries,” stressing that the APC under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership remains focused on consolidating its gains and expanding its reach nationwide.

“Governor Diri’s defection is a welcome development, and we remain confident in the leadership of President Tinubu and our national executives,” he concluded.