Defection Drama: Nigerians React Fiercely To Saraki’s Alleged APC Comeback

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Sunday Fagbemi, has expressed that the party would gladly receive former Senate President Bukola Saraki should he choose to return.

Speaking with The Guardian, Fagbemi acknowledged hearing rumours of Saraki’s potential return to the APC but stressed that any such move would require the former governor to align with the party’s structure and leadership.

“We’ve heard whispers about his possible return, but nothing concrete yet. If it’s true, we would welcome him—but those returning must be ready to follow the guidance of the house they’re entering,” he said.

Saraki previously defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2014 under the leadership of then-President Goodluck Jonathan, only to return to the PDP in 2018 alongside Atiku Abubakar. Interestingly, Saraki recently criticised former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the APC.

In response to the latest speculation, Kwara PDP Chairman Tunde Mohammed stated that Saraki remains firmly with the PDP. “As things stand, there’s no indication from our leader that he plans to switch parties,” he noted.

Kola Shittu, a former PDP chairman in Kwara, also rejected the defection claims, describing Saraki as a political heavyweight who would not play second fiddle in any party. “He’s a political force whose involvement often signals victory. However, we’ve had no conversation suggesting a move to the APC,” Shittu added.

Meanwhile, an aide to Saraki, who requested anonymity, dismissed the rumours as baseless, asserting that the former Senate President has made no such intentions known. “Politics is fluid—alliances shift based on what’s best for the people. But at the moment, there’s no truth to the defection claim,” the aide said.