By Tunde Ajisola 6th January, 2026
The recent outbursts and commentaries surrounding the exchange between the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru (Alubarika), and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, are both unnecessary and misplaced.
At the heart of the matter is a simple fact: Dr Ajibola Basiru acted within his constitutional duty as National Secretary of the APC. Nothing more. Nothing less.
When the Deputy National Chairman (South-South) publicly referred to a sitting governor as a “so-called governor,” it was clearly inappropriate and avoidable. Dr Basiru’s intervention was a responsible internal correction directed at a fellow member of the National Working Committee. That is how serious political parties maintain discipline, order, and credibility.
What is baffling is how this routine act of Party management has provoked such agitation from Barrister Wike, a former two-term PDP Governor who is not a member of the APC leadership structure. That a measured internal clarification would trigger public attacks and baseless accusations against the National Secretary raises serious questions.
Dr Ajibola Basiru is not an obscure figure. He is a respected lawyer, a former Senator of the Federal Republic, and the National Secretary of Africa’s largest political Party. Attempts to diminish his office or question his authority only betray a misunderstanding of the APC’s institutional framework.
If Barrister Wike harbours grievances, they should be addressed with decorum and restraint. More importantly, he owes the National Secretary of the APC an unreserved apology for his unwarranted remarks and should immediately desist from spreading misinformation.
Should Barrister Wike desire to join the APC, the Party’s doors remain open—but the process is straightforward and non-negotiable. He must formally register at his ward, respect Party structures, and acknowledge the authority of its leadership.
In the APC, discipline is not optional, leadership is not personal, and respect is reciprocal. Dr Ajibola Basiru has not erred; instead, he has upheld the values and order that distinguish a serious political organisation.
Tunde Ajisola writes from London, United Kingdom.
The Chairman of the APC UK Chapter, Hon. Tunde Doherty, led members of the APC UK Executive Committee to the celebration honouring her outstanding service and this remarkable milestone.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations and formally welcome her to the 5th floor as she celebrates 50 years of grace, impact, and excellence.
APC UK Media
APC Diaspora Charts Strategic Course for 2026 as Doherty Reviews Landmark 2025 Achievements
London, UK – January 2026
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) UK Chapter and Chairman of the APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen (CDC), Hon. Tunde Doherty, has described 2025 as a landmark year for the APC Diaspora and unveiled an ambitious roadmap for 2026 ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Hon. Doherty made this known in his New Year Broadcast to APC Diaspora members worldwide, extending warm greetings to leaders and members across the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and other regions.
He commended Diaspora members for their loyalty, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Party’s growth, noting that their collective efforts have significantly strengthened the voice and relevance of the APC Diaspora in Nigeria’s national political landscape.
Landmark Achievements in 2025
Reflecting on the outgoing year, Hon. Doherty highlighted several key milestones recorded by the APC Diaspora in 2025, including:
Successful hosting of high-impact programmes across the UK, France, and the United States
Inauguration of the APC France Executive Committee, expanding the Party’s global organisational footprint.
Sustained advocacy for Diaspora Voting through engagements with the National Assembly
Official visits by members of the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to the UK and France
A successful APC Diaspora sideline programme hosted by the USA Chapter during UNGA 2025
Ministerial and other high-level national appointments of Diaspora members.
Formal invitation of the APC Diaspora to attend National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings as Observers for the first time. Appointment of Diaspora leaders into strategic Party and national roles
Inclusion of Diaspora representatives in key Party committees and councils
According to him, these achievements underscore growing trust, recognition, and confidence in the Diaspora under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Strategic Focus for 2026
Looking ahead, Hon. Doherty described 2026 as a critical year of consolidation and mobilisation as the Party prepares for the 2027 general elections. He outlined priority focus areas for the year, which include:
Organisation of rallies to showcase the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda and kickstart 2027 campaign projects. Strengthening media and communications capacity to counter misinformation and deepen grassroots engagement.
Launch of a Unified APC Diaspora Identity Card
Re-establishment of inactive chapters and onboarding of new ones in line with Party constitutional provisions. Opening of a Diaspora Consultation Office in London to enhance member access and support. Regular general meetings and structured engagement with emeritus leaders and stakeholders.
Enforcement of annual membership dues to strengthen operational capacity
Clear and consistent communication of the CDC mandate across chapters
Increased virtual engagements with Party leaders and national stakeholders
Stronger unity and collaboration among all Diaspora chapters
Pursuit of member-focused opportunities in housing, investment, and empowerment
Hosting of Diaspora Connect Events in March 2026, followed by physical engagements in France and Ghana later in the year
Call for APC E-Registration
Hon. Doherty also urged all APC Diaspora members to complete the APC E-Registration, as directed by the Presidency and the Party’s National Headquarters, stressing that it is essential for proper integration into the Party’s central database and access to future opportunities and benefits.
Reaffirming his commitment to Diaspora engagement, the APC CDC Chairman assured members of continuous interaction with the National Headquarters and relevant stakeholders to secure meaningful recognition and benefits for APC Diaspora members globally.
He concluded by calling for unity, purpose, and renewed determination as the Party moves forward, wishing all members a prosperous 2026.
APC UK Congratulates Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji on Emergence as Osun APC Gubernatorial Candidate
The All Progressives Congress (APC) United Kingdom Chapter has congratulated Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji on his emergence as the party’s candidate for the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Tunde Doherty, Chairman of APC UK and Chairman of the APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen, described Oyebamiji’s emergence as timely and well-deserved. He said Asiwaju Oyebamiji’s emergence reflects the confidence placed in his leadership, experience, and commitment to progressive governance.
Hon. Doherty noted that Oyebamiji’s record in public service, particularly his tenure as the immediate past Chairman of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), demonstrates his readiness to lead Osun State. According to him, Oyebamiji possesses the vision, competence, and dedication required to deliver purposeful leadership to the people of the state.
He further assured the candidate of the full support of APC members in the United Kingdom and the wider diaspora, stating that the APC UK Chapter and the party’s entire diaspora structure stand firmly behind Asiwaju Oyebamiji as he prepares for the election.
Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji emerged as the APC flagbearer following the party’s primary election ahead of next year’s Osun State governorship poll.
APC UK Media
Publicity@apcunitedkingdom.org
APC UK Congratulates APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on Prestigious Tiv Chieftaincy Honour
The All Progressives Congress (APC) United Kingdom Chapter has congratulated the National Chairman of the party, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and his wife, Dr. Martina Nentawe Yilwatda, on the conferment of the distinguished Tiv traditional chieftaincy title ZEGEBAR-U-TIV.
The honour was bestowed on Saturday, 13th December, by His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv, on behalf of the Tiv Traditional Council.
In his remarks following the conferment, Prof. Yilwatda expressed deep humility and gratitude, describing the recognition as a rare and meaningful honour. He noted that the title represents more than personal recognition and stands as a powerful symbol of unity, brotherhood, and enduring bonds among the peoples of Plateau and Benue States, as well as the wider Middle Belt.
He further conveyed profound appreciation to the Tiv nation for the gesture of trust and affection, stating that the honour strengthens his resolve to continue promoting peaceful coexistence, national unity, bridge-building, and community development across Nigeria.
The APC UK Chapter described the conferment as a fitting recognition of Prof. Yilwatda’s commitment to service, leadership, and nation-building, noting that the honour reflects his growing stature as a unifying figure within the party and the country.
The Chapter congratulated Prof. and Dr Yilwatda on the prestigious traditional title and wished them continued wisdom, strength, and success in their service to the nation.
APC UK Media
Publicity@apcunitedkingdom.org
In a significant escalation of Nigeria’s security response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, authorising major recruitment drives across the Armed Forces, Police, and security agencies. The APC United Kingdom Chapter has thrown its full support behind the directive, calling it a timely and courageous step toward restoring national stability.
The President’s statement authorises the Nigerian Police Force to recruit 20,000 additional officers, raising the total new intake to 50,000. He also approved the immediate use of NYSC camps as temporary training depots to speed up mobilisation, while officers withdrawn from VIP guard duties will undergo accelerated retraining for deployment to high-risk areas.
Responding to the development, Hon. Tunde Doherty, Chairman APC UK and Chairman, APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen (APC-CDC), praised the President’s bold and urgent steps, noting that “this marks a defining moment in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity and demonstrates the President’s unwavering dedication to protect every citizen.”
The President also authorised the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy trained forest guards into Nigeria’s forests to flush out terrorists and bandits, with further approval to recruit more officers to reinforce ongoing operations.
In its formal reaction, the APC UK Chapter expressed strong support for these measures, describing them as a reset of Nigeria’s overstretched security architecture.
Hon. Tunde Doherty, in his remarks, stated that “the diaspora community strongly welcomes these decisive actions, which reflect a leadership prepared to confront the nation’s security challenges head-on.”
President Tinubu commended Nigeria’s security agencies for the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and worshippers in Kwara, reaffirming the government’s commitment to recovering all remaining captives, including students abducted in Niger State.
The APC UK Chapter also emphasised the significance of the President’s message of unity and resilience.
Hon. Tunde Doherty highlighted that “this emergency directive signals that Nigeria is entering a new phase of coordinated, proactive, and people-centred security management.”
President Tinubu urged state governments to reinforce local security outfits and appealed to the National Assembly to begin reviewing the legal framework for state police. He further advised states to reconsider establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security arrangements and encouraged religious institutions to work closely with security agencies.
Discussing the broader impact of the announcement, Hon. Tunde Doherty added that “Nigerians in the diaspora stand firmly behind the President’s call for national vigilance and collective responsibility in securing the country. We are united in our determination to see a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.”
APC UK MEDIA
Publicity@apcunitedkingdom.org
Engagement Highlight at the Oxford African Governance Forum
Hon. Wale Adewumi put his question forward to the panel, seeking clarity on key governance priorities. His question prompted a thoughtful and detailed response from Senator Sani Musa, who provided insight drawn from his legislative experience and policy perspective.
Senator Musa’s response underscored the importance of accountability, strategic planning, and collaborative leadership in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic and economic institutions. The exchange was constructive and reflective of the high-level dialogue that the session encouraged.
APC UK Media
Publicity@apcunitedkingdom.org
Deputy Senate President Commends Dr. Bernard Doro During Senate Screening
The Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau Jibrin, on the floor of the Senate, described Dr. Bernard Doro as a thoroughbred professional and a distinguished member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Diaspora, who has continued to make Nigeria proud both at home and abroad.
Senator Barau commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda for identifying and nominating such a capable and patriotic individual, noting that Dr Doro’s track record of service and commitment reflects the renewed hope agenda of the administration.
APC UK Media
Publicity@apcunitedkingdom.org