North Central Forum Apologizes to APC National Chair Yilwatda, Denies Intent to Cause Crisis

North Central Forum Apologizes to APC National Chair Yilwatda, Denies Intent to Cause Crisis

The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has officially withdrawn its ultimatum demanding the resignation of APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and extended a public apology for the earlier stance. The decision, announced in a statement signed by the Forum’s National Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, comes after the group acknowledged that its previous position was based on misinformation and a misunderstanding of the party’s internal processes. The Forum had previously given Yilwatda two weeks to step down or face legal action over alleged irregularities in the conduct of APC primaries, but has now retracted the threat.

In the revised statement released late Thursday, the Forum clarified that it had no intention of creating crisis or destabilizing the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. It emphasized that its earlier call for Yilwatda’s resignation stemmed from incomplete information and misinterpretation of events surrounding the party’s primaries. The group admitted that it had not been fully briefed on the actual circumstances and now recognizes the need to support the party’s leadership for national unity and electoral success.

The Forum also suggested that external forces, possibly enemies of the APC, may have influenced its earlier position, contributing to the misjudgment. It reaffirmed its commitment to peace, harmony, and progress within the party, stressing that it remains a body of well-meaning stakeholders dedicated to the growth of the APC in the North-Central zone. The apology was extended not only to Yilwatda but also to other party leaders affected by the controversy.

Moving forward, the Forum urged all APC members to rally behind the Yilwatda-led National Working Committee (NWC) in order to ensure a strong and unified party structure. It emphasized the importance of collective effort in securing victory for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. The Forum also restated its pledge to deliver six million votes to Tinubu from the North-Central region, underscoring its continued support for the party’s national agenda.

This development marks a significant shift in the internal dynamics of the APC, as the Forum seeks to mend relations and restore confidence in its leadership. The withdrawal of the ultimatum and the public apology signal a move toward reconciliation and unity within the party’s regional structures. As the 2027 elections approach, the North-Central APC Forum’s renewed commitment to party cohesion could play a vital role in consolidating support across the zone.