From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
Former Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Nasarawa State, Dr. Lucky Yargwa, has faulted the reaction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that his switch was driven by principle, not desperation or ingratitude.
Responding to a statement issued by the APC Publicity Secretary on Monday, Yargwa said the party’s attempt to attack his character was unnecessary, stressing that his political choice remained a constitutional right.
“I hold no ill feelings towards the APC as an institution. I enjoyed the privilege of serving under the party, and for that opportunity, I remain grateful. But the decision to move to the ADC is a personal and carefully considered political choice,” he said.
Yargwa argued that no citizen should be vilified for exercising their freedom of association.
“Political parties are voluntary platforms, not prisons. Exercising constitutional rights should not attract insults or character assassination,” he added.
He clarified that his recent interview, which triggered the party’s reaction, was issue-focused and not a personal attack on anyone.
“I did not attack any individual. I only expressed my views on national and state issues. Constructive criticism is part of democratic growth,” he said.
Addressing allegations of ingratitude and opportunism, Yargwa maintained that his service record spoke for itself.
“I served with dedication, loyalty and diligence. Choosing a new political path is not a crime; neither does it erase years of honest service,” he stated.
He dismissed claims that he defected out of desperation.
“If I were desperate for appointment or patronage, I would have remained within the comfort of the established structure. Leadership requires courage—the courage to speak and the courage to pursue a path aligned with one’s conscience,” he said.
The former commissioner also hinted at unresolved internal frictions within the party.
“Denying the existence of internal disagreements does not resolve them. Honest introspection is healthier than denial,” he noted.
On loyalty to Governor Abdullahi Sule, Yargwa said he maintained respect for the governor and worked diligently during his tenure.
“Loyalty does not mean suppressing one’s voice. It is possible to respect leadership and still hold independent political views,” he said.
Calling for an end to personal attacks, he said the people deserve a more mature political conversation.
“I will not join anyone in politics of bitterness. The people of Nasarawa State deserve issue-based leadership,” he said.
Yargwa, who is now backing ADC governorship hopeful Barr. Abdullahi Mohammed, said his focus was on supporting a leadership that prioritizes people-centered governance.
“My focus is clear: to support Barr. Abdullahi Mohammed whose vision for Nasarawa aligns with my convictions,” he said.
He added that he was also working with other Nigerians who share the aspiration to build a more responsive government at the national level ahead of 2027.
“Our democracy grows when people can speak without fear and pursue political choices without intimidation,” he stated.
He urged the APC Publicity Secretary to focus on strengthening his party rather than engaging in personal attacks.
