The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusiveness, declaring that the ruling party remains the most youth-driven political platform in Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday after being screened by the APC screening panel ahead of the party’s national convention, Yilwatda emphasised that the APC has institutionalised due process, making all members—regardless of status—subject to the party’s rules and systems.

“In APC, everybody is subject to the system and how it operates. The system prevails over individuals,” he said.

He commended the convention committees for their coordination and unity, noting that, unlike other political parties, the APC has avoided internal conflicts and public disagreements during its convention processes.

Yilwatda also praised party stakeholders, including governors, lawmakers, and members of the executive arm, for their support over the past eight months, which he said has contributed to the party’s growth and consolidation.

Highlighting recent membership data, the APC chairman revealed that over 50 per cent of the party’s members are between the ages of 18 and 35, underscoring its appeal among young Nigerians.

According to him, only about 18 per cent of members are aged 50 and above—a statistic he said clearly positions the APC as the most youthful political party in the country.

“It shows clearly that we have the youth on our side and that the party has a future,” he stated.

He added that the party’s adoption of technology-driven membership registration has strengthened its data capabilities and strategic positioning.

On gender representation, Yilwatda acknowledged that women remain underrepresented in the National Assembly but assured that the party is actively working to improve inclusion.

He pointed to the implementation of the 35 per cent affirmative action policy within party structures, particularly in convention committees, as evidence of ongoing efforts to empower women politically.

The APC chairman further asserted that the party is the only political organisation with a strong presence across all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

He cited recent by-election victories in states and regions including Kano, Zaria, Adamawa, the South-West, South-South, and South-East as proof of the party’s nationwide reach.

“No political party has achieved this in the past year,” he claimed.

Yilwatda also highlighted the party’s ability to resolve internal disputes through arbitration rather than litigation, noting that no court cases have arisen from recent congresses at local, state, and zonal levels.

“This shows that APC is a party of system, and members believe in the processes we follow,” he said.

Reiterating the party’s stance on loyalty and structure, he stressed that the APC prioritises committed membership over informal affiliations.

“We don’t believe in ‘friends of the party.’ We believe in members of the party, because membership comes with obligations,” he added.

Yilwatda thanked party members and Nigerians for their continued support, expressing optimism that the APC will build on its achievements and secure strong victories in future elections. (The Guardian)

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