Gbajabiamila Urges Abejide to Stay in ADC Amid Political Tensions

Nigeria’s Acting House Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, has called on former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Leke Abejide, to remain in the party, urging unity amid internal divisions. The appeal comes as the APC faces pressure from factions vying for control ahead of the 2023 general elections. Gbajabiamila, a key figure in the party, emphasized the need for cohesion to strengthen the APC’s position in the political landscape.

Political Tensions and Party Dynamics

The call for unity comes after a series of factional disputes within the APC, which has seen internal power struggles intensify. Gbajabiamila, who holds a prominent position in the National Assembly, has positioned himself as a mediator, advocating for a more stable and unified party structure. His statement highlights the growing concerns over the APC’s ability to present a cohesive front in the upcoming elections.

Leke Abejide, a former leader of the APC, has been at the center of these debates. His potential exit from the party has raised alarms among supporters who fear fragmentation could weaken the APC’s electoral prospects. Gbajabiamila’s intervention underscores the high stakes of maintaining party discipline and preventing further splits.

Impact on Nigeria’s Political Economy

The internal dynamics of the APC are not just a political concern; they have direct implications for Nigeria’s economy. A fractured opposition could create a power vacuum, giving the ruling party more room to push through policies that may favor business interests. Investors have been closely watching the political developments, as stability is a key factor in economic growth and foreign investment.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that Nigeria’s GDP growth slowed to 1.8% in the first quarter of 2023, partly due to political uncertainty. A unified APC could help restore confidence among investors, who have been hesitant to commit capital amid the party’s internal turmoil.

Investor and Business Implications

Business leaders and investors have expressed concerns over the APC’s internal divisions. The uncertainty has led to a cautious approach in decision-making, with some companies delaying expansion plans. A stable political environment is crucial for long-term planning and investment in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

“The APC’s unity will directly impact the business climate in Nigeria,” said Chike Okoro, an economist at the Lagos Business School. “If the party remains divided, it could lead to policy instability, which is a red flag for investors.”

Regional and International Reactions

The situation in the APC has drawn attention from regional and international stakeholders. South Africa, a key economic partner, has been monitoring the developments closely. The African Union has also expressed interest in the stability of Nigeria’s political institutions, given the country’s role as a regional leader.

“A stable Nigeria is essential for regional economic integration,” said Thandiwe Mbele, a South African political analyst. “Any political instability could disrupt trade and investment flows across the continent.”

What to Watch Next

As the APC prepares for its upcoming leadership elections, the next few weeks will be critical. The party’s ability to resolve internal disputes and present a unified front will determine its effectiveness in the 2023 elections. Investors and businesses will be closely monitoring these developments, as they could shape the economic trajectory of Nigeria in the coming years.

The next major test for the APC will be its national convention in April 2023, where the party will finalize its presidential candidate. This event will be a key indicator of the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to compete effectively in the 2023 general elections.