From Umar Dankano, Yola
The defection of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri from the people’s Democratic party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has been greeted with mixed reactions in Adamawa state.
Forum of Special Advisers to Governor Fintiri threw their weight behind their boss announcing their collective resign ing their membership with the PDP and joining the ruling APC.
Chairman of the forum, Hon.Bala Buba Jada disclosed at a press conference that the forum consisting of thirty nine (39) members resolved to follow the governor in the interest of the people in the state considering the gigantic achievements recorded so far.
Buba Jada said that the progress has not been accidental but driven by displined, good governance, fiscal responsibility, inclusivity across religious and ethic lines, and a leadership philosophy rooted in service rather than privilege.
Jada added that the Governor’s approach has consistently placed public interest above partisan consideration and development above rhetoric
“This decision is not born of animosity nor is it an abandonment of principle.It is a forward-looking step taken after reflection, consultation, and conviction”. Jada stressed.
Similarly, the Association of local government of Nigeria,(ALGON). Adamawa state Chapter also disclosed its members defection from PDP to the ruling APC as a mark of loyalty to the wishes of their people.
Chairman of the Association, Suleiman Ahmed Gangkuba expressed collective resolution of fourteen out of twenty one council chairmen in welcoming the development and announced pitching tent with the Governor.
Gangkuba who doubles as the executive Chairman of Toungo local government area said that their decision was arrived at after wide consultation with their stakeholders at the grassroots.
But in a contrary stand, Dr Umar Ardo, former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic party, SDP faulted the move stressing that decamping to APC won’t save Governor Fintiri due to his style of governance.
Ardo in a statement issued in Yola Friday declared that the reported defection of Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) represents “a deeply repugnant episode in our state politics”.
“This move, devoid of ideological conviction or principles, exemplifies the cynical culture of political opportunism that continues to debase democratic norms in Nigeria. Defections undertaken for personal protection rather than public service insult the mandate freely given by the people and erode trust in democratic institutions.
“Adamawa people know serious financial misappropriations undertaken by the Fintiri regime in his years of locusts. Already, the Governor faces a pending 5-counts charge of corruption, money laundering and fraud before the Federal High Court, Abuja.
“While the law must take its course and due process be respected, no change of party colours can either substitute accountability or save him from being prosecuted. Neither can political realignment launder reputations nor extinguish legitimate scrutiny.
“The people of Adamawa are not deceived. Governance is not a game of hide-and-seek behind party banners. Justice, transparency and responsibility remain non-negotiable, and no defection will place anyone above them. Fintiri must face the criminal charges against him, willy-nilly”. The statement highlighted.