The Forum of Elected Members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) has reiterated its firm commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. This declaration was made by the forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Basiru Baballe, during a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, where members discussed issues relating to the legacy and political representation of the defunct party.
Baballe addressed recent remarks made by Alhaji Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, who had questioned the credibility of the CPC bloc, led by Tanko Al-Makura, former governor of Nasarawa State. Baballe stated that Malami had no authority to speak on behalf of the defunct CPC.
He reminded the public that the CPC, which gained the support of over 12 million Nigerians, especially in the North, during the 2011 elections, was a significant political force before merging to form the APC in 2013. The forum chairman stressed that the CPC was founded on values of progressive change, integrity, and the aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Baballe strongly rejected any claims made by individuals or groups without electoral backing, stating that only the elected representatives from the 2011 elections had the legitimate authority to speak for the defunct CPC. He emphasized that those who held public office as CPC candidates remain the rightful voices of the party’s legacy, representing millions of Nigerians who had entrusted them with their votes.
The forum called on Nigerians, particularly those in the North, to disregard any unauthorized statements or actions made in the name of the defunct party. Baballe reaffirmed the forum’s dedication to upholding the values of the APC and ensuring that the voices of its supporters were not misrepresented.
He urged the media, civil society groups, and the public to verify the legitimacy of claims related to the defunct CPC. The forum, according to Baballe, recognizes only Tanko Al-Makura as the legitimate leader of the CPC, noting that his leadership would guide efforts to preserve the sacrifices made during the creation of the APC.
In conclusion, the forum committed to supporting APC’s mission and working to ensure that the party fulfills its promises to the Nigerian people.
