Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, on Sunday announced his formal defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that the PDP deserted him during his most trying years.
Metuh, who clocked 60, made the announcement during a thanksgiving service in Abuja, marking his return to partisan politics three years after he publicly withdrew from all political activities.
The event drew a high-profile crowd, including Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma; former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim; former governors Sam Egwu, Okezie Ikpeazu and Ikedi Ohakim; Senator Victor Umeh; and former lawmaker Tony Nwoye, among others.
Speaking with journalists after the service, the former PDP spokesman said his decision to join the APC was informed by the empathy and support he received from the ruling party—particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—during his legal travails.
Metuh recalled that when he battled prosecution and health challenges, the PDP he served “with his life” abandoned him.
“When I had problems, I did not see my party; I did not see the people I suffered for,” he said.
“I was in court with my family alone. But someone I criticised every week—President Tinubu, who was then leader of the opposition—sent Femi Gbajabiamila to visit me. He reached out, comforted me and did so much for me.”
The former PDP spokesman added that his experience taught him that support does not always come from expected quarters.
“It is not where you sow that you will reap; it is where God says you will reap. I gave my life to the PDP. I wish them well, but I have moved on,” he stated.
Metuh disclosed that President Tinubu had repeatedly invited him to join the APC since 2015, but he consistently declined until now.
“The president wanted me to work with him. Even after PDP lost in 2015, he reached out. When I left politics in 2022, he still called me. After he won the election, he asked me again to join the APC,” he said.“It is now that I am returning to politics, and I want to help. Maybe I can be a good voice on this side.”
Metuh said he joined the APC to contribute to national development and support the government in tackling the country’s mounting challenges.
“I have seen the challenges facing Nigeria. As a patriotic Nigerian, I want to join hands in resolving them and assist the president in delivering the dividends of democracy,” he added.
Despite the wave of defections to the ruling party, Metuh dismissed fears that Nigeria was drifting toward a one-party state.
“There are credible people in the opposition—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, David Mark and many others—who will ensure democracy remains vibrant,” he said.
He stressed the need for strong dissenting voices and credible checks and balances to deepen democratic governance.
“We need a vibrant opposition. We need people who can speak and express their views. That is what grows democracy,” Metuh noted.
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