In a significant political development, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. This meeting marks Anyim’s official entry into the All Progressives Congress (APC), having recently left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Anyim, who served as the 9th President of the Senate from 2000 to 2003 and later as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, has decided to align himself with the ruling party. His move is seen as a strategic step towards contributing to national development at a time when Nigeria faces numerous challenges.
Accompanying Anyim to the Presidential Villa were two influential figures: the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, and the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru. Their presence underscored the significance of Anyim’s transition and the potential impact it may have on the political landscape in Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Anyim expressed his commitment to the country’s progress and the reasons behind his decision to join the APC. He emphasized the urgent need for unity and collective effort to steer the nation through its current challenges.
“There is a need that we all should put hands together to move the country forward,” Anyim stated. “I have a determination to be sure that the country moves on the right path and I should be available to contribute my quota.”
Anyim clarified that his decision to join the ruling party was not driven by personal ambition or a desire for a specific position. Instead, he highlighted his desire to create a conducive atmosphere for progress and stability in Nigeria.
“Contributing quota does not necessarily mean to work but to engender a conducive atmosphere for progress. I am not looking for work,” he explained. “But there is a need that given the challenges the country is facing today, we all need to put all hands on deck to make the country move forward.”
Reflecting on the state of the nation, Anyim acknowledged the turbulent times Nigeria is currently experiencing. He called on all patriots to rise to the occasion and ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for the country.
“The country is passing through turbulent times and it is the duty of all patriots to ensure a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
Anyim’s shift to the APC is particularly noteworthy given his long-standing association with the PDP. His political career has been marked by significant achievements and a reputation for dedicated public service. His move is likely to be interpreted as a vote of confidence in President Tinubu’s administration and its ability to navigate Nigeria through its current economic and social challenges.
Governor Hope Uzodimma and Governor Francis Nwifuru also echoed sentiments of unity and progress during their remarks, reinforcing the collective resolve of the APC to address the nation’s issues head-on. The governors’ involvement signals a broader strategy of strengthening the party’s influence and ensuring that experienced leaders like Anyim play a crucial role in shaping policy and governance.
The meeting at the Presidential Villa highlights the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics and the ongoing realignments among its key players. As Anyim Pius Anyim embarks on this new chapter with the APC, his extensive experience and commitment to national service are expected to be valuable assets in the ruling party’s efforts to foster development and stability in Nigeria.
The implications of Anyim’s defection will unfold in the coming months, as the APC leverages his expertise and influence to further its objectives. For now, his call for unity and collective effort resonates as a timely reminder of the shared responsibility of all Nigerians to contribute towards the country’s progress.
