Buhari says Ebonyi gov defection to APC based on principle

President Muhammadu Buhari has said the defection of Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was based on principle.

On Tuesday, Umahi announced his defection to the APC, saying he left his former party because of injustice.

Buhari who welcomed the governor to the APC reportedly described Umahi’s action “as a bold move driven purely by principle rather than opportunistic motives”.

A statement on Wednesday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media, Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as saying, “I am proud of Governor David Umahi for taking this bold decision in accordance with his conscience and principles rather than any external influence or coercion,” the President was quoted to have said.

“Good governance is very important to us in the APC, and I’m glad that the governor has cited this as a major factor in his decision to join us. I urge our citizens to pay less emphasis on identity politics if we want our democracy to make a positive impact on our country.

“With men like Umahi, I foresee a brighter future for our democracy because the voters will be more motivated by performance records of parties and their candidates.

“Let me once again commend the boldness of Governor Umahi for taking this courageous decision in a country where principles are in short supply among many.”