Tom Ikimi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has indicated that the ruling party was hijacked by some elements after its formation and changed into a structure that was not in the best interests of the country.
According to reports, Ikimi, a national leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the declaration on Thursday, April 24, 2025, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Benin City, Edo State.
He added that when the APC was formed, it was anticipated to serve as an alternative to the former ruling PDP, with the goal of replicating the two-party system found in the United States and Britain.
According to Ikimi, the APC aims to eliminate the opposition party and establish a one-party dictatorship.
He stated, “My assessment is that the APC was hijacked by some forces and converted into a structure that was not in the best interests of our country.” We have all witnessed their operations so far, as well as the calamity that we are currently experiencing.
“That party (APC) is now a collection of individuals with solely selfish interests.
“Despite the tremendous issues that our country is currently facing under the APC, it appears that all we are now presented with are desperate efforts to eliminate the PDP so that the country can become a one-party dictatorship. It seems evident to me that the only route ahead for our country right now is for the PDP to survive.”
Speaking about the party’s ongoing issue, Ikimi expressed concern that personal ambitions were eroding the PDP’s unity and power in the South-South zone.
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He claims that the relentless attack has caused PDP members in Delta State to defect to the APC.
He continued, “This stakeholders gathering is extremely crucial. It sends a clear message to the country that the PDP in Edo State is powerful and thriving. The APC’s offensive on the South South Region has recently intensified.
“I’ve seen in the press reports that our Delta State Governor has defected to the APC, as has his predecessor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa. I am aware of the route we took in the PDP to offer Gov Sheriff Oborevwori our party’s ticket as well as his predecessor’s Vice Presidential ticket.
“All I can say now is that it is far too early to express any regrets. It is hardly surprising that the people of Delta have not yet responded, given that the PDP lost Delta heavily in 2023 to Senator Peter Obi of the Labour Party, who did not have a governor at the time.”
