Group Dismisses Criticism Of Gbajabiamila Over ADC Comment

A political support group, the Gbaja Network for Asiwaju 2027, has defended the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over his recent remark advising a federal lawmaker, Leke Abejide, to remain in the African Democratic Congress and “fight and scatter” the party from within.

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National President, Gideon Unazi, the group described the comment as a “bold expression of partisan conviction,” insisting that Gbajabiamila spoke as a committed leader of the All Progressives Congress.

The network said the advice should be viewed within the context of competitive politics, where parties deploy strategies to gain advantage over rivals ahead of elections.

“Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila’s statement reflects his loyalty to the APC and his readiness to defend the progressive mandate,” the statement read. “Politics is inherently strategic, and what he expressed aligns with the realities of party competition.”

The group added that Gbajabiamila has remained consistent in his political stance, describing him as a “thoroughbred progressive” who understands the dynamics of power and party organisation.

It further argued that his position as Chief of Staff does not diminish his political identity or role in shaping the strategic direction of the ruling party.

According to the group, criticisms trailing the remark overlook the nature of Nigeria’s political environment, where parties constantly seek to outmanoeuvre one another.

“Expecting a leading APC figure to offer guidance that strengthens an opposition party is unrealistic. His position reflects clarity, not contradiction,” Unazi said.

“Nigerian politics has always involved strategic positioning. To single out Gbajabiamila for expressing what is widely practised is disingenuous,” the statement added.

The group maintained that Gbajabiamila’s political career has been defined by consistency and forthrightness, noting that his clarity has earned him respect within and beyond the APC.

It reiterated support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition, stressing that Gbajabiamila remains a key figure in advancing the administration’s agenda.

The network urged political actors to focus on strengthening their platforms rather than reacting to what it described as “frank political expressions,” adding that democracy thrives on open competition.