Metuh defects to APC, says PDP abandoned him during his trials

Olisa Metuh, former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has formally joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that the PDP deserted him during the most challenging period of his political and personal life. Metuh, who stepped away from partisan politics for about three years, said he chose the APC because key figures in the party stood by him during his most difficult moments.

Metuh announced his defection on Sunday during a thanksgiving service in Abuja to mark his 60th birthday. The event drew several prominent political figures, including Imo State governor Hope Uzodinma; former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim; and former governors of Abia, Ebonyi and Imo states, Okezie Ikpeazu, Sam Egwu and Ikedi Ohakim. Senators Victor Umeh and Tony Nwoye were also in attendance.

Read Also: Tinubu needs Nigerians’ full support to tackle challenges, says ex-governor Udom

Speaking to journalists after the service, Metuh said he had returned to active politics with a commitment to contribute to national development under the APC platform. He dismissed concerns that the wave of defections into the ruling party was pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state, insisting that the country still has credible opposition figures capable of sustaining democratic balance.

According to him, Nigeria is grappling with significant political and economic challenges, and he intends to support the federal government in addressing them. “I am trying to make sure that I assist the government at the centre, the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to deliver the dividends of democracy. I have seen the steps being taken and the challenges involved. As a patriotic Nigerian, I want to join hands in resolving those challenges,” he said.

In an emotional testimony during the service, Metuh recalled his legal and political ordeals, during which he said the PDP abandoned him. “When I had problems, I did not see my party; I did not see the people I suffered for. I was in court with only my family,” he said.

He revealed that, unexpectedly, it was those he once fiercely opposed who showed him compassion. “President Tinubu, whom I criticised weekly when he was in the opposition, sent the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, to see me. He reached out…”

Athekame Kenneth is a politics, economy, and finance reporter whose work is anchored in sharp investigative storytelling. He brings analytical depth to every piece, drawing on a strong academic foundation that includes a degree in Economics, an MBA in International Trade, and a minor in Petroleum Economics from Lagos State University, Ojo. His reporting blends rigorous research with a keen eye for hidden truths, delivering stories that illuminate power, policy, and the forces shaping everyday lives.

Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date