Al-Makura endorses new APC chairman, sues for unity, discipline

Former Nasarawa State Governor and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has pledged his “total and unflinching” support for Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the newly appointed national chairman of the party. Although Al-Makura did not officially declare interest in the chairmanship following the sudden resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, […]

Former Nasarawa State Governor and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has pledged his “total and unflinching” support for Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the newly appointed national chairman of the party.

Although Al-Makura did not officially declare interest in the chairmanship following the sudden resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, he was widely considered a top contender—particularly amid pressure from the North Central zone and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc, which he leads. He had earlier said on Trust TV that he would defer to the party’s decision.

In an open letter personally signed and addressed to the new chairman on Monday, Al-Makura congratulated him on his emergence, describing it as a reflection of the party’s collective will.

He said the change in leadership offers an opportunity to return the APC to its founding ideals of discipline, inclusivity, and a nation-first political outlook.

“This is not just a routine transition. It is a reaffirmation of the values upon which our party was built,” he stated.

“Let there be no ambiguity: I support the decision of the President and the NEC. The party has spoken. As progressives and democrats, we must move forward in unity,” he declared.

He urged party leaders to prioritise peace and cohesion above personal ambition or sectional interests, adding that he remains committed to supporting the APC in any capacity that promotes national progress.

“My commitment remains rooted not in personal ambition, but in strengthening the foundations of the party and deepening democratic governance across Nigeria,” he said.

He urged other stakeholders to embrace consensus, dialogue, and maturity in the party’s ongoing internal adjustments.

“The APC is more than a party. It is a symbol of democratic perseverance and national hope. We must protect it with discipline, patience, and vision,” he wrote.

Al-Makura also cautioned that the challenges facing the party are complex, given the socio-political realities confronting the country. He urged the new chairman to demonstrate not just administrative skill but moral clarity.

“Our citizens are demanding sincerity, consistency, and empathy. We must lead with a clear sense of responsibility and a firm moral compass,” he said.

He encouraged the new leadership to embrace reconciliation and inclusivity, stressing the importance of “politics of healing and patience” in the months ahead.

“You have my full support in fostering a leadership style that listens, reconciles, and inspires—a style that honours both experience and innovation,” he noted.

Al-Makura offered himself as a bridge between generations and regions, pledging to work with the new leadership to further the APC’s founding vision and mentor younger members.

He also called on the new leadership to reconnect with the party’s grassroots and foster a culture where all members feel included.

Describing himself “not as a rival but as a resource,” Al-Makura pledged to offer his experience and networks for consultation, mediation, and strategic support.

He warned that the APC must lead by example in internal governance, as this will reflect on its national leadership credentials.