Fani-Kayode worries over Umahi defection to APC

Etim Effiong

Former Minister of Aviation and chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has cautioned the leadership of his party over the planned defection of Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Reacting to the news of Umahi’s planned defection, Fani-Kayode, said that he had yet to confirm the news and described Umahi’s rumoured defection to APC as disturbing.

The former minister on his Twitter page said: “The rumour that my friend and brother Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi state is planning to leave @OfficialPDPNig and join @OfficialAPCNg is troubling.

“I am yet to confirm if it is true and I will see him in the next few days to know the true position of things but if it is then I urge the leadership of the PDP to do all they can to ensure that he stays. Not only is he a profoundly good man and an excellent Governor but his contributions to the success of the PDP over the last 20 years at various levels is immeasurable and simply extraordinary.

“Apart from that he happens to be a good friend of mine and someone I hold in high esteem, immense respect and affection for. Unlike many he is forthright, and his word is his bond. He is either with you or against you, he is fearless, bold and has the courage of his convictions.”

“What makes the matter worse is that other Governors may also contemplate leaving if he does because he has a lot of friends and goodwill amongst them.

“If that happens it will affect our party’s chances in the 2023 presidential election in an incredibly significant way.

“Again, I call on the National Chairman and the NWC of our great party to do all they can to keep Umahi on board.

“He is one of our brightest and best and losing him to the APC would be a monumental error and great tragedy,” he stated.

Fani-Kayode added that the PDP needs Umahi as he is a great asset to the opposition party.

“The fact of the matter is that we need him just as we need everyone else and petty divisions and internal wrangling at this crucial time do not help us.

“Umahi is a great asset to the party and a source of strength and inspiration to the rank -‘d file right across the country.”